“Batman Tales: Once Upon a Crime” By Derek Fridolfs & Dustin Nguyen Review

Once upon a crime in Gotham. Damian Wayne dreams of becoming a real boy wonder–as long as he can avoid telling lies and making his nose grow. Batman’s butler takes an unexpected trip through the looking glass and finds himself in a topsy-turvy world, for Alfred’s in Wonderland! Gotham City Police Department detectives interrogate Gotham’s most dangerous criminals looking for the princess who stole the pea.

This comic book is a delightful and inventive blend of classic fairy tales with the dark allure of Gotham City. At the same time this comic book presents a fresh take on beloved stories, weaving them seamlessly into the Batman universe with creativity and humor.

This comic book consists of several short stories, each reimagining a classic fairy tale with a Batman twist. The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and witty, capturing the essence of both the original tales and the iconic characters of Gotham. The narrative effortlessly blends elements of fantasy and crime, offering readers a unique and engaging experience.

One of the standout stories in this comic book is “Waynocchio,” which cleverly adapts the Pinocchio tale with Damian Wayne in the titular role. The creators of this comic book explores themes of identity and transformation, adding depth to the whimsical plot. The character interactions are both humorous and heartfelt, showcasing this comic book’s talent for balancing lightheartedness with genuine emotion.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a perfect complement to the storytelling, because it is bringing each tale to life with his charming and expressive style. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the whimsical nature of fairy tales while maintaining the gritty undertones of Gotham. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through detailed expressions and dynamic compositions enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually captivating.

One of the strengths this comic book is its accessibility to a wide audience. The stories are crafted to appeal to both young readers and longtime Batman fans, offering layers of humor and insight that can be appreciated by all ages. The creators of this comic book successfully blend familiar fairy tale elements with the unique personalities and dynamics of Gotham’s heroes and villains.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, with each story unfolding at a satisfying rhythm that has kept me personally engaged. The narrative flows smoothly from one tale to the next, maintaining a balance between action, humor, and character-driven moments. This balance ensures that the book remains entertaining and engaging throughout, making it a joy to read from start to finish.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Apprentice to the Villain” By Hannah Nicole Maehrer Review

Evie Sage has never been happier to be the assistant to The Villain. Who would have thought that working for an outrageously handsome, evil overlord would be so rewarding? Still, the business of being bad is demanding, the forces of good are annoyingly persistent, and said forbidding boss is somewhat out-of-evil-office. But Rennedawn is in trouble, and all signs—Kingsley’s included—point to catastrophe. Something peculiar is happening with the kingdom’s magic, and it’s made The Villain’s manor vulnerable to their enemies . . . including their nemesis, the king.

Before we start this review I need to say that this book is the second book in the Assistant to the Villain Series. With that being said I need to admit that this book is just as good as the first book in this series is. 

The plot in this book is very good but also a little bit on the slow side of things. But I still loved the plot a lot in this book. Because even during the slow moments in this book we get to see the very slow burn romance between Evie and Trystan which I have turned a sucker for. The best part of the plot in this book (and the whole series so far) is the slow burning romance between Evie and Trystan for me personally. 

The plot in this book is also very sweet, funny and cute. Which makes this book to a overall cozy read which is the main reason why I love this book (and the first one in this series) so much as I do.

In a way this book takes every troop the first book had and improves them. Which made me like this book so much more, because this book takes the things I loved in the first book and it just improves them to be better.  

The characters in this book are the same as in the first book, but they are so much better than they were in the first book. The reason behind this could be that I have spend 2 whole books with the same characters I already loved from the first book which made me fall in love with them even more in this book.

There have been so many times during reading this book when I wanted to smack Trystan solely because of how stubborn he is. I personally am very invested in the slow burn romance between Trystan and Evie which made me want to slap both of them in this book so many times that I have lost count halfway through this book. 

We also get much more of Kingsley in this book, which made this book so much better in my opinion. Because he adds flare and fun to the plot of this book, which makes it very funny and good read.

The writing in this book, is very good. Its simple and easy going which goes very well with the cozy and easy going plot in this book. Which made me give this book some extra points for doing.

This book also ends on a cliffhanger just as the first book in this series did. Which annoyed me a lot because I want to take a break from this series for a little while just because I read this book and the first one in a very short time and I don’t want to get tired of this series and be overly harsh towards the third book. But the cliffhanger made it very hard for me to actually take a break from this series because I want to know so badly what will happened next in this series.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“The Goddamned #1” By Jason Aaron & R.M. Guéra Review

It’s 1,655 years after Eden, and life on Earth has already gone to hell. The world of man is a place of wanton cruelty and wickedness. Prehistoric monsters and stone-age marauders roam the land. Murder and destruction are the rule of the day. Humankind is a failed experiment. This is life before the Flood. The story of man on the verge of his first apocalypse. Welcome to the world of the Goddamned.

This comic book is a visceral and compelling comic that plunges readers into a brutal, pre-flood world depicted with raw intensity.

This comic book is set in a savage, ancient world, “The Goddamned” reimagines biblical tales with a gritty and unflinching lens. The narrative follows Cain, the biblical figure cursed with immortality, as he wanders through a desolate landscape filled with violence and depravity. The creators of this comic book create a story that is both epic in scope and deeply personal, exploring themes of survival, guilt, and redemption.

The writing in this comic book is sharp and immersive which had pulled me into into a world that feels both familiar and alien. The dialogue is sparse but impactful, reflecting the harshness of the environment and the characters who inhabit it. Through Cain’s journey, Aaron delves into existential questions and moral ambiguities, challenging us as readers to reconsider familiar stories from a new perspective.

The artwork in this comic book is nothing short of spectacular. The detailed and gritty illustrations perfectly capture the bleakness and brutality of the world of this comic book. The art is both beautiful and haunting, with each panel meticulously crafted to convey the raw emotion and intensity of the narrative. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict both the grandeur and the grotesque adds a layer of depth to the storytelling, making the world of “The Goddamned” viscerally real.

The character development is another strength of this comic book. Cain is portrayed with complexity and nuance, his immortality a curse that weighs heavily on his soul. This comic book explores his inner turmoil with sensitivity and depth, making him a compelling and sympathetic figure despite his violent past. The supporting characters, though less prominent, are equally well-crafted, adding richness to the narrative without detracting from Cain’s journey.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, balancing moments of intense action with quieter, introspective scenes. This rhythm allows the story to unfold naturally, that have kept me engaged while providing space for reflection and character development. The seamless integration of action and narrative depth is a testament to Aaron and Guéra’s collaborative prowess.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“DC Graphic Novels for Young Adults Sneak Previews: Wonder Woman: Warbringer (2020-) #1” By Louise Simonson & Kit Seaton & Sara Gomez Woolley Review

Diana longs to prove herself to her legendary warrior sisters. But when the opportunity finally comes, she throws away her chance at glory and breaks Amazon law- risking exile-to save a mere mortal. Even worse, Alia Keralis is no ordinary girl, and with this single brave act, Diana may have doomed the world.

This comic book is an outstanding adaptation of Leigh Bardugo’s novel. At the same time this comic book brilliantly captures the essence of Diana’s journey, blending action, mythology, and coming-of-age themes in a way that resonates deeply with young adult audiences.

The writing itself in this comic book is both engaging and faithful to the source material, skillfully adapting Bardugo’s narrative into a graphic format.

The story in this comic book follows a young Diana, not yet Wonder Woman, as she grapples with her identity and the responsibilities that come with it. The creators of this comic book expertly balances the mythical elements of Themyscira with the modern world, creating a narrative that feels both timeless and fresh. The dialogue is crisp and authentic, reflecting the complexity of Diana’s character and her interactions with others.

The plot in this comic book is well-structured, introducing readers to the central conflict and the stakes involved. Diana’s journey to prevent a catastrophic war is both thrilling and emotionally charged, providing ample opportunity for character growth and exploration. This comic book adaptation maintains the heart of Bardugo’s story while enhancing it with the visual medium, making it accessible and engaging for a wide range of readers.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature, because it is bringing the world of Wonder Woman to life with vivid detail and dynamic compositions. The illustrations in this comic book are both elegant and powerful, capturing the grace and strength of Diana as she navigates her challenges. The character designs are expressive and nuanced, allowing us as readers to 

The plot is well-structured, introducing readers to the central conflict and the stakes involved. Diana’s journey to prevent a catastrophic war is both thrilling and emotionally charged, providing ample opportunity for character growth and exploration. Simonson’s adaptation maintains the heart of Bardugo’s story while enhancing it with the visual medium, making it accessible and engaging for a wide range of readers connect with the emotions and struggles of the characters. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey motion and action enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually compelling.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to present a powerful and relatable protagonist. Diana’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment is both inspiring and resonant, offering us as readers a role model who embodies courage, compassion, and determination. The narrative explores themes of identity, friendship, and the impact of choices, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a rhythm that keeps readers engaged while allowing for moments of introspection and character development. The creators of this comic book work seamlessly together to deliver a narrative that flows smoothly, each element building on the last to create a cohesive and compelling introduction.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“DCeased (2019-) #1” By Tom Taylor & Trevor Hairsine & Stefano Gaudiano Review

A mysterious techno-virus has been released on Earth, infecting 600 million people and turning them instantly into violent, monstrous engines of destruction.

This comic book delivers a masterful blend of horror and superhero action. At the same time this comic book sets a high bar for the series with its intense narrative and emotionally charged moments.

The story in this comic book thrusts us as readers into a chilling apocalypse where a techno-organic virus spreads, turning billions into bloodthirsty monsters. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both haunting and exhilarating, exploring themes of fear, loss, and survival in a world turned upside down. The tension is palpable from the first page, as the DC Universe faces an unprecedented threat that challenges even its greatest heroes.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in capturing the emotional weight of the situation. Characters are portrayed with depth and vulnerability, making their struggles and sacrifices resonate powerfully. The dialogue is sharp and impactful, reflecting the urgency and desperation of the heroes as they confront their own fears and uncertainties. This strong character work ensures that I personally were deeply invested in the fates of their favorite heroes.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the cataclysmic world of “DCeased” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the chaos and horror of the unfolding events, while also conveying the subtle nuances of character emotions. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict both large-scale destruction and intimate character moments enhances the storytelling, making each panel a visual feast.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, balancing fast-paced action with moments of introspection and emotional resonance. The narrative flows seamlessly, maintaining a sense of urgency and suspense throughout. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character arcs, ensuring that the story remains accessible and engaging for both new readers and longtime fans.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as heroism, sacrifice, and the fragility of civilization. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative with precision, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the true nature of heroism in the face of overwhelming odds, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Halloween ComicFest 2017 Batman: Night of the Monster Men Special Edition” By Steve Orlando & Tom King & Riley Rossmo Review

It’s the storm of the century, and it’s headed straight for Gotham City. The guardians of this sprawling urban center – Nightwing, Batwoman and the Batman himself – think they’ve prepared for the worst. They have no idea. Thanks to the machinations of the macabre scientist Dr. Hugo Strange, the storm has unleashed a rain of monsters upon the city. Colossal creatures are stomping through the streets, terrorizing the citizens and challenging the skills of even Gotham’s greatest heroes. Can the Dark Knight and his allies stem the tide of destruction? Or will the Night of the Monster Men mark the fall of the Bat?

This comic book is an exhilarating addition to the Batman series. At the same time this comic book captures the essence of Gotham’s atmosphere with a thrilling blend of action, horror, and character depth.

The story in this comic book is set during a monstrous storm in Gotham, the story follows Batman and his allies as they face a terrifying onslaught of giant creatures threatening the city. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both intense and engaging, expertly weaving horror elements into the Batman mythos. The plot balances high-stakes action with emotional moments, creating a rich and immersive experience.

The writing in this comic book excels in capturing the urgency and tension of the situation. Batman is portrayed with his usual determination and strategic brilliance, while his interactions with allies like Nightwing and Batwoman highlight the camaraderie and trust within the team. These relationships add depth to the narrative, showcasing the human side of Gotham’s protectors amidst the chaos.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and purposeful, reflecting the dire circumstances and the characters’ resolve. The pacing is expertly managed, maintaining a relentless momentum that has kept me personally on the edge of my seat. This balance between action and character development ensures that the story remains both thrilling and emotionally resonant.

The artwork itself in this cocky book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the terrifying world of “Night of the Monster Men” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the horror and grandeur of the monstrous foes, while also conveying the intensity and determination of the heroes. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to create a sense of scale and urgency enhances the storytelling, making each panel a visual treat.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as fear, resilience, and the battle between humanity and monstrosity. 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 nature of heroism in the face of overwhelming odds, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Batman: Curse of the White Knight #1” By Sean Gordon Murphy & Matt Hollingsworth Review

In this explosive sequel to the critically acclaimed blockbuster BATMAN: WHITE KNIGHT from writer/artist Sean Murphy, The Joker recruits Azrael to help him expose a shocking secret from the Wayne family’s legacy—and to run Gotham City into the ground! As Batman rushes to protect the city and his loved ones from danger, the mystery of his ancestry unravels, dealing a devastating blow to the Dark Knight. Exciting new villains and unexpected allies will clash in this unforgettable chapter of the White Knight saga—and the truth about the blood they shed will shake Gotham to its core!

This comic book is an exceptional continuation of the “White Knight” universe. At the same time this comic book brilliantly blends compelling storytelling, intricate character dynamics, and stunning visuals, making it a standout in the Batman series.

The narrative in this comic book picks up after the events of “Batman: White Knight,” delving deeper into Gotham’s dark history and the Wayne legacy. The creators of this comic book creates a gripping tale that intertwines the past and present, uncovering secrets that threaten to upend everything Bruce Wayne holds dear. The introduction of Azrael as a formidable adversary adds layers of complexity and intrigue, setting the stage for a thrilling confrontation.

The writing itself in this comic book  shines with sharp dialogue and a deep understanding of the characters. Batman is portrayed with depth and vulnerability, grappling with his role as Gotham’s protector while facing the consequences of his family’s past. The interplay between characters, particularly between Batman and Jim Gordon, is rich with tension and emotional weight, enhancing the story’s depth.

The character of Azrael is masterfully introduced, bringing a sense of menace and unpredictability. His motivations and connection to Gotham’s history are intricately woven into the narrative, making him a compelling and formidable antagonist. This adds a fresh dynamic to the Batman saga, challenging Bruce Wayne in unexpected ways.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, balancing intense action sequences with moments of introspection and character development. The narrative flows seamlessly, maintaining a sense of urgency and suspense throughout. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character arcs, ensuring that the story remains accessible to both new readers and longtime fans.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as legacy, identity, and the burden of the past. 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 heroism and the impact of history on the present, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Batman/Catwoman: The Gotham War – Prelude #1” By Chip Zdarsky & Tini Howard & Mike Hawthorne Review

The Gotham War is set to fracture the Bat-Family this fall, as Batman and Catwoman find themselves on opposite sides of a conflict more than a year in the making! Prepare for war with this Special Edition comic book available on Batman Day 2023, featuring a 10-page original prelude story and preview pages from Batman/ The Gotham Battle Lines #1, which sets the stage for a fateful fight for Gotham City’s future!

This comic book is a masterful setup to an epic confrontation. At the same time this comic book intricately weaves tension, emotion, and action, setting the stage for a gripping storyline.

The narrative in this comic book opens with Gotham City in turmoil, as Batman and Catwoman find themselves on opposing sides of a brewing conflict. The creators of this comic book creates a story that is rich in complexity, exploring themes of morality, justice, and loyalty. The writing is sharp, with dialogue that captures the essence of each character, highlighting their distinct philosophies and motivations.

The portrayal of Batman is both familiar and fresh, delving into his unwavering commitment to justice and the inner struggles that accompany it. Meanwhile, Howard’s depiction of Catwoman is equally compelling, showcasing her as a multifaceted character with her own code of ethics and ambitions. The interplay between these two iconic figures is electric, filled with both tension and a deep, underlying connection.

The artwork itself in this comic book is exceptional, bringing the gritty and dark atmosphere of Gotham to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to capture the intensity of action sequences and the subtleties of character expressions enhances the storytelling, making each panel resonate with impact. The Gotham we get in this comic book is both ominous and alive, reflecting the city’s complex nature.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, balancing fast-paced action with moments of introspection and character development. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. 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 and longtime fans.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. The narrative challenges readers to consider the complexities of justice and the sacrifices required to uphold it. The story’s depth adds layers of meaning to the conflict, making it not just a battle of ideologies, but a deeply personal struggle for both Batman and Catwoman.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Marvel’s The Avengers Prelude: Fury’s Big Week #1” By Christopher Yost & Luke Ross & Agustín Padilla Review

This exciting foray into the official Marvel Cinematic Universe is just in time for the Avengers blockbuster movie! How will S.H.I.E.L.D. maintain the status quo in a world full of green monsters, gods, and men in iron suits?

This comic book is an exemplary addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). At the same time this comic book serves as a thrilling bridge between the individual superhero stories and their eventual convergence in “The Avengers,” delivering a narrative that is both dynamic and insightful.

The story in this comic book is set during the week leading up to the formation of the Avengers, following Nick Fury as he navigates a series of escalating events involving key superheroes. The creators of this comic book skillfully weaves together multiple plotlines, capturing the urgency and complexity of Fury’s task. The narrative offers fans an enriched understanding of how these characters’ paths intersect, enhancing the larger MCU tapestry.

The writing in this comic book shines with sharp dialogue and meticulous attention to detail. Each character’s voice is distinct, reflecting their personalities and motivations. Fury is portrayed with depth and nuance, showcasing his strategic mind and unyielding determination. The interactions between characters are engaging and filled with tension, underscoring the high stakes involved in assembling the Avengers.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the vibrant and expansive world of Marvel to life with precision and energy. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the grandeur of the superhero universe, from the intricate details of high-tech environments to the dynamic action sequences. The art effectively conveys the tension and excitement of the unfolding events, drawing readers into the narrative.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and strategic planning. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. 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 and longtime fans of the MCU.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as leadership, trust, and the complexities of building a team. 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 intricacies of collaboration and the sacrifices required to unite individuals with divergent backgrounds and goals.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Batman: Nightwalker #1: Special Edition” By Stuart Moore & Marie Lu & Chris Wildgoose Review

Batman: Nightwalker: The Graphic Novel Batman Day 2019 Special Edition #1 features an excerpt from the upcoming DC graphic novel for young adults based on the New York Times bestselling novel by Marie Lu, adapted by writer Stuart Moore with art and cover by Chris Wildgoose. 

This comic book is an exceptional adaptation of the young adult novel. At the same time this comic book beautifully blends thrilling storytelling with striking visuals, offering a fresh take on Bruce Wayne’s early years.

The story in this comic book follows a young Bruce Wayne as he encounters the enigmatic Nightwalkers, a group targeting Gotham’s elite. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, capturing Bruce’s struggle to find his place in a world fraught with danger and intrigue. The plot expertly balances action and character development, creating a rich and immersive experience.

This adaptation of Marie Lu’s novel is seamless, capturing the essence of Bruce Wayne’s internal conflicts and burgeoning sense of justice. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, reflecting Bruce’s intelligence, curiosity, and vulnerability. His interactions with key characters, including the intriguing Madeleine Wallace, add depth and tension to the narrative, making his journey both relatable and compelling.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing Gotham City and its inhabitants to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the intensity and energy of the action sequences while conveying the subtleties of character interactions. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict emotion through facial expressions and body language enhances the storytelling, adding depth to the overall narrative.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and quieter, character-driven moments. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in Bruce’s journey. The creators of this comic book effectively 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 identity, justice, and the transition from youth to adulthood. The narrative seamlessly weaves these themes into the story, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of heroism and the personal sacrifices required to uphold justice, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5