“Fatale #1” By Ed Brubaker & Sean Phillips & Dave Stewart Review

Nothing the BEST-SELLING and AWARD-WINNING creators of SLEEPER, CRIMINAL and INCOGNITO have done so far will prepare you for the explosive debut of FATALE!

This comic book is a gripping introduction to a noir-infused horror series. At the same time this comic book skillfully weaves elements of crime, supernatural, and suspense, setting up a narrative that had hooked me personally from the start.

The story in this comic book kicks off with a mysterious manuscript that pulls the protagonist, Nicolas Lash, into a web of intrigue and danger. As he delves deeper, Nicolas encounters Josephine, a femme fatale with a dark and enigmatic past. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both atmospheric and engaging, blending classic noir tropes with horror elements to create a unique and compelling tale.

The writing in this comic book excels in building tension and mystery. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, capturing the essence of the noir genre while adding layers to the characters. Josephine is portrayed with depth and complexity, her allure and secrets making her a captivating figure. Nicolas, on the other hand, serves as a relatable entry point for readers, drawn into a world he barely understands.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it perfectly complementing the moody and atmospheric tone of the story. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the gritty realism of the noir setting, with detailed character expressions and shadowy environments that enhance the sense of dread and intrigue. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and tension through his art adds depth to the storytelling, making each panel visually compelling.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between building suspense and advancing the plot. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding mystery. The creators of this comic book introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as fate, power, and the nature of evil. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of morality and the influence of supernatural forces, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

Despite its strengths, this comic book has left me at times wanting more immediate answers to the mysteries it presents. However, the engaging premise and strong character work promise further exploration and development in future installments.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Star Trek: TNG: Mirror Broken #0” By David Tipton & Scott Tipton & J.K. Woodward Review

Return to the Mirror Universe with the Next Generation crew in a way you’ve never seen them before! Captain Jean-Luc Picard will stop at nothing to get his hands on the Terran Empire’s newest starship, the Enterprise. And no one had better stand in his way.

This comic book is a captivating introduction to the Mirror Universe. At the same time this comic book effectively sets the stage for a thrilling exploration of an alternate reality where familiar characters take on darker roles.

The narrative in this comic book thrusts us as readers into the Mirror Universe, a place where the ideals of Starfleet are twisted into a ruthless Terran Empire. The creators of this comic book creates a compelling storyline that delves into the complexities of this universe, focusing on the crew of the ISS Enterprise-D. The plot is engaging, filled with intrigue and power struggles that highlight the stark contrast between the two realities.

The character development is a key strength of this comic book. The creators of this comic book excel in reimagining iconic characters like Captain Jean-Luc Picard and his crew, presenting them with a menacing edge that feels both fresh and familiar. The dialogue is sharp and reflects the cunning and ambition that drive these mirror versions, adding depth to their interactions and motivations.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the dark and gritty world of the Mirror Universe to life with stunning detail. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the intensity and atmosphere of the narrative, with character designs that emphasize the sinister nature of this alternate reality. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and tension through expressive art enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually compelling.

The pacing of this comic book is. well-executed, maintaining a balance between action, character development, and world-building. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and eager to explore the complexities of this alternate reality. The creators of this comic book effectively introduce key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and longtime Star Trek fans.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as power, ambition, and the duality of human nature. The creators of this comic book weave these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the moral complexities of leadership and the choices that define a person’s character, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

Despite its strengths, this comic book has left me at times wanting more immediate plot development, as it focuses heavily on setting the tone and introducing the Mirror Universe. However, the strong character work and engaging premise promise further exploration in future installments.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Copperhead #1” By Jay Faerber & Scott Godlewski Review

Welcome to Copperhead, a grimy mining town on the edge of a backwater planet. Single mom Clara Bronson is the new sheriff, and on her first day she’ll have to contend with a resentful deputy, a shady mining tycoon, and a family of alien hillbillies. And did we mention the massacre? Writer JAY FAERBER and the art team of SCOTT GODLEWSKI & RON RILEY bring you this gritty 24th Century Western with an extra-long first issue

This comic book delivers a gripping and unique blend of sci-fi and western genres. At the same time this comic book effectively sets the stage for a compelling narrative filled with intrigue, action, and rich world-building.

The story in this comic book introduces us as readers to Clara Bronson, the new sheriff of Copperhead, a mining town on a distant planet. Right from the start, the creators of this comic book creates a narrative that immerses readers in a world where frontier justice meets intergalactic politics. The plot is engaging and tightly woven, with a focus on Clara’s struggle to assert her authority in a town filled with secrets and diverse inhabitants.

The writing in this comic book excels in creating a strong protagonist in Clara. She is portrayed as tough, resourceful, and determined, with a touch of vulnerability that makes her relatable. The dialogue is sharp and natural, capturing the essence of a law enforcement officer navigating the complexities of a new environment. Clara’s interactions with the townspeople, including her alien deputy, offer humor and tension, adding depth to the story.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the world of Copperhead to life with detailed and expressive illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the rugged and gritty atmosphere of the frontier town, with character designs that reflect the diversity and uniqueness of the setting. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and action through dynamic panel compositions enhances the storytelling, making each scene visually engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between action, character development, and world-building. The narrative flows smoothly, that has kept me personally engaged and invested in Clara’s journey. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and longtime fans of the genre.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as justice, identity, and the challenges of leadership in an unfamiliar environment. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book invites us as readers to consider the complexities of law and order in a frontier setting, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

Despite its strengths, this comic book has left me at times wanting more immediate answers to the mysteries presented. However, the engaging premise and strong character work promise further exploration and development in future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Kirby: Genesis #0” By Kurt Busiek & Jack Kirby & Alex Ross Review

The Kirby Event of the new millennium begins here, brought to you by the best-selling and award-winning creators of MARVELS! The Pioneer 10 space probe carried a message to the stars. Now an answer’s on the way – but not one we expected! When it arrives, the lives of three ordinary people – and the entire world – will be changed forever. Featuring Captain Victory, Silver Star and more of Jack Kirby’s greatest concepts, including characters never before seen in comics form! Kurt Busiek (Astro City) and Alex Ross (Kingdom Come) team up for their first full collaboration since 1994, with finished art (from Alex’s layouts) by Jack Herbert (Black Terror). Don’t miss this tantalizing prelude to GENESIS – a bold, explosive adventure debuting a universe of wild Kirby creations! This is the beginning.

This comic book is a captivating introduction to a universe inspired by the legendary Jack Kirby. At the same time this comic book serves as a love letter to Kirby’s creativity, setting the stage for an expansive and imaginative narrative.

The story in this comic book kicks off with a cosmic event that sets the wheels in motion for a universe teeming with heroes, villains, and cosmic wonders. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that honors Kirby’s legacy while infusing it with fresh energy. The plot weaves together elements of science fiction and fantasy, capturing the essence of wonder and exploration that defined Kirby’s work.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in its ability to balance nostalgia with innovation. The dialogue is sharp, capturing the grandeur and excitement of the unfolding cosmic drama. The narrative effectively introduces key characters and concepts, ensuring that both new readers and longtime fans can appreciate the expansive world being built.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book. The illustrations we get own this comic book are stunning, capturing the dynamic and larger-than-life style that Kirby was known for. The artwork in this comic book has a realistic and detailed character designs while mixing it with energy and movement to the panels in this comic book.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between action, exposition, and character introduction. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and eager to uncover more about the mysterious cosmic event and its implications. The creators of this comic book effectively sets up the series’ overarching themes and conflicts, leaving readers with a sense of anticipation for what’s to come.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as creation, legacy, and the infinite possibilities of the universe. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the impact of creativity and imagination, celebrating the enduring influence of Kirby’s visionary work.

Despite its strengths, this comic book have felt a bit overwhelming to me personally. As it introduces a wide array of characters and concepts in a short span. However, the engaging storytelling and striking visuals promise further exploration and development in future installments.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Herald: Lovecraft & Tesla Vol. 1: History in the Making” By John Reilly & Dexter Weeks & Tom Rogers Review

While searching for Amelia Earhart, famed inventor Nikola Tesla is forced to work with reclusive horror writer HP Lovecraft as they race against a conspiracy of Cthulhu cultists for an extant copy of the original Necronomicon. Collects Lovecraft & Tesla 1-3.

This comic book is an intriguing and inventive blend of historical fiction, science fiction, and fantasy. At the same time this comic book brings together the unlikely duo of H.P. Lovecraft and Nikola Tesla in a narrative that is as entertaining as it is imaginative.

The story in this comic book kicks off with a mysterious and thrilling premise: Lovecraft and Tesla are drawn together by strange occurrences that hint at otherworldly forces at play. The creators of this comic book weaves a plot that skillfully combines elements of cosmic horror with scientific curiosity, capturing the essence of both historical figures while placing them in an entirely new context. The narrative is fast-paced and filled with twists, that have kept me engaged from start to finish.

The characterization is a highlight of this comic book. Lovecraft is portrayed with his characteristic eccentricity and fascination with the macabre, while Tesla’s brilliance and inventiveness shine through. Their dynamic is both humorous and compelling, as they navigate a world filled with supernatural threats and scientific mysteries. The supporting characters also add depth to the story, complementing the main duo’s journey and enriching the overall narrative.

The artwork in this comic book perfectly complements the tone of the story. The illustrations are detailed and expressive, capturing the era’s aesthetic while adding a fantastical touch. The character designs are distinctive, and the scenes are rendered with a blend of realism and whimsy that suits the story’s genre-bending nature.

While this comic book is successful in many areas, there are moments where the plot feels slightly overstuffed. The ambitious blending of genres and historical elements can occasionally lead to a sense of narrative overload. However, this is a minor drawback, as the story’s creativity and energy largely compensate for these moments.

The dialogues in this comic book are witty and engaging, capturing the distinct voices of Lovecraft and Tesla while driving the plot forward. The writing in this comic book balances humor with suspense, maintaining a lively pace that have kept me personally entertained. The interactions between characters are a particular strength, providing insight into their personalities and enhancing the development of their relationships.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Ivy: Preview” By Sarah Oleksyk Review

10-Page Preview! Ivy, a teenager from a small town longs to leave and pursue her dream of becoming a painter. But life isn’t easy when you never know the right thing to say. After beginning a long-distance relationship with a kindred spirit, Ivy gets a glimpse of freedom too good to pass up. Only while trying to escape her troubles does she start to understand that while she can leave home, she can’t run away from herself.

Let me start this review by saying that this one is just a preview for the entire comic book. And I read it because I wanted to see if the full comic book was worth the money and time I would spend on it. And I’m gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

This preview offers a compelling glimpse into the world of a young girl’s coming-of-age journey. This preview sets the stage for an exploration of adolescence, identity, and the complexities of growing up.

The narrative in this preview centers around Ivy, a high school student navigating the challenges of teenage life. The creators of this preview create a story that resonates with authenticity, capturing the emotional turbulence and self-discovery inherent in this life stage. Ivy’s character is relatable and well-developed, her struggles and aspirations depicted with sincerity and depth.

The writing in this preview excels in its ability to portray the nuances of teenage life. The dialogue is natural and engaging, reflecting the genuine interactions between Ivy and her peers. Her internal monologues provide insight into her thoughts and feelings, allowing us as readers to connect with her on a personal level. The themes of friendship, ambition, and self-exploration are skillfully woven into the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that many will find familiar.

The artwork in this preview complements the narrative beautifully. The illustrations are expressive and detailed, capturing the subtleties of emotion and setting. The character designs are distinctive, with each figure brought to life through careful attention to detail. The art style enhances the realism of the story, grounding it in a world that feels both familiar and inviting.

The use of shading and line work in this preview adds depth and dimension to the visuals, creating an immersive experience for us as readers. This artistic approach ensures that the visuals support and enhance the emotional impact of the narrative.

While this preview succeeds in many areas, it had left me wanting more in terms of plot development. As a preview, it provides a tantalizing introduction to Ivy’s world but stops short of delving deeply into the overarching storyline. I personally have found myself  eager for more context and progression, hoping to see how Ivy’s journey unfolds in greater detail.

Despite this, this preview effectively sets up the potential for a rich and engaging series. The foundation laid in this initial glimpse suggests a story filled with growth, challenges, and introspection. This preview has the ability to capture the essence of adolescence promises a narrative that will resonate with readers of all ages, particularly those who appreciate character-driven storytelling.

So will buy and read the full version of this comic book ? Yes I will. It might take some time for me to actually read the full version of this comic book because I have been way too optimistic when creating my TBR list for this year and I don’t know if I get the time to read the full version of this comic book this year. But I will read the full version of this comic book at some point in time.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“A Touch of Darkness” By Scarlett St. Clair Review

Persephone is the Goddess of Spring by title only. The truth is, since she was a little girl, flowers have shriveled at her touch. After moving to New Athens, she hopes to lead an unassuming life disguised as a mortal journalist. Hades, God of the Dead, has built a gambling empire in the mortal world and his favorite bets are rumored to be impossible. After a chance encounter with Hades, Persephone finds herself in a contract with the God of the Dead and the terms are impossible: Persephone must create life in the Underworld or lose her freedom forever.

I need to start this review by saying that I was never into greek mythology, so looking at this book (and this series) which is about greek mythology I had very little hope for it before actually getting into it. But now that I have read this book I gotta admit that this book has easily been one of the better books I have read so far this year. But as always I will explain everything in this review, so if you are interested in hearing my thoughts about this book then by all means keep reading this review my dear reader.

The plot in this book is amazing, because it got everything I love in a book which of course is magic, romance, rich mythology and we get to see the world in this book through the eyes of the main character who is also a newcomer to the world of this book. 

The beginning of this book is more on the slower side, which at the beginning gave me mixed feelings about this book because I wasn’t that into this book at the beginning. But the deeper I got this book the more I started liking this book. And I’m very glad that I decided to keep reading this book even though I had a few thoughts of DNF-ing this book early on because of how slow it was at the beginning.

However the plot of this book is very addictive, by chapter 5 I was fully addicted to this book and the characters we get in this book. Which made me want to grab the second book in this series immediately after I have finished this book. But this book is so addictive that I have read it in one day and I was beating myself over the fact that I only bought this first book and not the whole series straight away, because now I have to wait for the rest of the books in this series which I have ordered from amazon. So it will be some very long few days as I wait for the books I have ordered.

The characters we get in this book are amazing. I completely fall in love with Persephone who is an amazing character because of how relatable and likable she is. She got a lot of personality to her, and she has her unique quirks which makes her stand out from the rest of the characters in this book. In a way she feels like a real life person which I would have no problems being best friends with. 

When it comes to Hades, I need to admit that I had fallen in love with him from the moment he entered the plot in this book. Because he has a lot of personality to him but also he is mysterious, dark and broody. And even thou he is the god of the underworld he has a lot of relatable aspects to him and he paints a very good picture that characters and people aren’t solely just bad or just good. 

However the character development in this book leans very heavily on the generic romance fantasy book tropes. But at the same time the author of this book is able to put a unique twist to those generic troops which I have come across a lot since I started this website in 2020.

The writing we get in this book is very good, because it has this easy going vibe to it. But also it is very immersive and cozy, which makes this book a perfect read for when you want to spend the entire day in your bad or couch and just read a very good book which was written very well. At the same time the writing in this book fits with the plot of this book very well, which made me give this book extra points for it.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Archer & Armstrong, Vol. 3: Far Faraway” By Fred Van Lente &  Pere Pérez & Clayton Henry Review

Mary-Maria, Archer’s arch-nemesis/love interest/adopted sister, is back and dead-set on taking over the Sect by any means necessary. What better way to seize control of the most secret of secret societies than by unlocking their most secretive of secrets inside the secretest place on Earth? Now, as Mary-Maria sneaks her way inside Area 51 to claim a long-hidden prize, Archer & Armstrong are about to discover the forbidden history that binds America’s blackest black-ops base to the time-lost lands of the Faraway – and wind up fighting their way through each of its tightly guarded mysteries, one punch at a time.

This comic book is an engaging and adventurous installment in the Valiant series. At the same time this comic book continues the duo’s escapades with a perfect blend of humor, action, and intriguing plot twists.

The story in this comic book takes Archer and Armstrong on a wild journey to the mysterious land of Faraway, a place filled with dinosaurs, aliens, and bizarre technologies. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and the clash of ancient and modern worlds. The plot is well-paced, which have kept me engaged with unexpected developments and clever humor.

Archer and Armstrong’s dynamic remains a highlight of the series and this comic book. Their contrasting personalities (Archer’s innocence and Armstrong’s cynicism) create a compelling partnership that drives the story. This comic book’s characterization is sharp, providing depth and relatability to both protagonists. Their banter is witty and often laugh-out-loud funny, adding a layer of charm to the narrative.

The artwork in this comic book complements the story beautifully. The illustrations capture the fantastical elements of Faraway with vivid detail and creativity. The artwork in this comic book excel in depicting the action sequences, making them dynamic and visually exciting. The character designs are expressive, effectively conveying the emotions and personalities of the cast.

While this comic book excels in many areas, there are moments where the plot can feel slightly convoluted due to the sheer volume of ideas and concepts introduced. I found myself wishing for more focus on certain aspects of the story. However, this is a minor drawback considering this comic book’s overall entertainment value and creativity.

The side characters in this comic book in a way add depth and complexity to the plot. From ancient warriors to extraterrestrial beings, each character brings something unique to the story. This comic book skillfully weaves their narratives into the larger plot, ensuring that they enhance rather than overshadow the central duo.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Eternals: Never Die, Never Win #1” By Kieron Gillen & Esad Ribić Review

NEVER DIE. NEVER WIN. ETERNALS. What’s the point of an eternal battle? For millions of years, one hundred Eternals have roamed the Earth, secret protectors of humanity. Without them, we’d be smears between the teeth of the demon-like Deviants. Their war has waged for all time, echoing in our myths and nightmares.

This comic book is a captivating entry into the Marvel Universe. At the same time this comic book combines mythological grandeur with modern storytelling, setting the stage for a profound exploration of the Eternals’ complex world.

The narrative in this comic book focuses on the Eternals, immortal beings tasked with protecting Earth, as they grapple with their purpose and the weight of their eternal existence. The creators of this comic book creates a storyline rich with philosophical undertones, exploring themes of immortality, duty, and identity. The dialogue is sharp and introspective, capturing the characters’ existential dilemmas and adding depth to their interactions.

The writing in this comic book excels in balancing the epic scope of the Eternals’ mission with intimate character moments. Each Eternal is portrayed with distinct personality traits and internal conflicts, making them relatable despite their godlike powers. This nuanced characterization ensures that I personally were invested in their journey and the overarching narrative.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the Eternals’ world to life with breathtaking detail and grandeur. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the majestic and otherworldly essence of the characters and their surroundings. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through expressive character designs enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually compelling.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between introspective moments and action-packed sequences. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. The creators of this comic book introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and longtime fans of the Eternals.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of the Eternals’ internal struggles and their place in the Marvel Universe. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of immortality and the consequences of living a predetermined life, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

Despite its strengths, this comic book has left me at times wanting more immediate plot development, as it focuses heavily on establishing the Eternals’ world and setting the tone. However, the strong character work and engaging premise promise further exploration in future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Kill or be Killed #1” By Ed Brubaker & Sean Phillips & Elizabeth Breitweiser Review

The bestselling team of ED BRUBAKER and SEAN PHILLIPS (THE FADE OUT, CRIMINAL, FATALE) launch their new monthly series: KILL OR BE KILLED, the twisted story of a young man who is forced to kill bad people, and how he struggles to keep his secret as it slowly ruins his life and the lives of his friends and loved ones. Both a thriller and a deconstruction of vigilantism, KILL OR BE KILLED is unlike anything BRUBAKER & PHILLIPS have ever done.

This comic book is a gripping debut that blends psychological thriller with gritty realism. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for an intense narrative filled with moral complexity and suspense.

The story in this comic book follows Dylan, a troubled young man who survives a suicide attempt only to find himself entangled in a sinister pact with a demon. To stay alive, Dylan must kill those deemed deserving by his dark benefactor. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that dives deep into the psyche of his protagonist, exploring themes of justice, morality, and inner turmoil.

The writing in this comic book is razor-sharp, capturing Dylan’s internal struggles with authenticity and depth. The first-person narration allows readers to delve into Dylan’s conflicted mind, providing insight into his motivations and fears. This introspective approach adds layers to the character, making his journey both relatable and unsettling.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this coin book, because it perfectly complementing the dark tone of the story. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the gritty urban landscape with precision, reflecting the bleakness of Dylan’s world. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through detailed expressions and shadowy compositions enhances the storytelling, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, balancing introspection with moments of high tension. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged from start to finish. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and longtime fans of the genre.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of the blurred lines between justice and vengeance. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, challenging us as readers to consider the ethical implications of Dylan’s actions. The story invites reflection on the nature of morality and the consequences of choices made under duress, adding depth to the unfolding drama

Despite its strengths, this comic book has left me at times wanting more immediate plot development, as it focuses heavily on establishing Dylan’s character and setting the tone. However, the strong character work and engaging premise promise further exploration in future installments.

I Give This Book 4 / 5