“Holy F*ck: Introduction” By Nick Marino & Daniel Arruda Massa Review

Sister Maria has recruited two horny drug-fueled weirdos to stop the apocalypse. Their names? Jesus and Satan. Can these biblical frenemies help this nun with a gun defeat an army of pissed off mythological gods? Only one thing’s for sure — it’s gonna be a wild ride!

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 im gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

This preview sets out to deliver a bold and irreverent take on religious and mythological themes, but ultimately falters in execution. While the concept of this preview is intriguing and audacious, the narrative struggles with coherence and depth, leaving much to be desired.

The story in this preview thrusts us as readers into a world where deities and religious figures engage in a chaotic battle for supremacy. The creators of this preview create a plot laden with satire and dark humor, aiming to challenge conventional narratives. However, the storyline often feels disjointed, with scenes that lack clear transitions and purpose. This lack of cohesion makes it difficult for me personally to fully engage with the narrative or connect with the characters.

The character development is notably lacking in this preview. The protagonists, while initially captivating due to their outrageous nature, are presented with minimal depth. Their motivations and personalities are not fully explored, resulting in characters that feel more like caricatures than fully realized individuals. This superficial treatment hinders the potential for meaningful character arcs and emotional investment.

The writing in this preview, while attempting to capture a blend of humor and shock value, often falls short. The dialogue lacks the wit and cleverness needed to elevate the comedic elements, leading to interactions that feel forced and uninspired. This diminishes the potential for dynamic exchanges and meaningful development which have left me feeling disconnected from the characters’ journeys.

The artwork in this preview is a highlight, bringing a vibrant and exaggerated style that complements the outrageous tone of the story. The illustrations are bold and energetic, capturing the chaotic essence of the narrative with dynamic character designs and action sequences. The visual style adds an element of visual interest, though it cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings.

The pacing of this preview is another significant issue I had with this preview. Because this preview has scenes that either drag without adding value or rush through potentially important moments. This inconsistency disrupts the flow and makes it challenging for me personally to maintain interest or fully grasp the plot’s progression. A more balanced approach could improve the overall reading experience by allowing for deeper exploration of both plot and character.

So will I buy and read the full version of this comic book ? I don’t think I will. The main reason behind this is how poorly this preview was very uninteresting for me personally.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Nizu #2: The Silly Kid on the Bus” By Leen iO Review

Nizu’s seatmate on the bus, after getting a new partner, kicks her out of her seat. Nizu is forced to face the wild world of finding someone to sit with when almost everyone already has a seatmate. She ends up sitting with a charismatic boy who starts teasing her with a certain purpose.

This comic book offers us a lighthearted and humorous tale. At the same time this comic book continues the adventures of Nizu, a character known for his whimsical antics and endearing personality, capturing the charm and simplicity of everyday life through a playful lens.

The narrative of this comic book follows Nizu as he navigates a typical day filled with unexpected twists and quirky interactions, particularly focusing on his experiences on a bus ride. The creators of this comic book create a story that is both entertaining and relatable, capturing the essence of childhood curiosity and imagination. The plot is straightforward, maintaining a gentle pace that allows us as readers to enjoy each moment of Nizu’s journey.

The character development is a notable aspect of this comic book. Nizu is portrayed with a delightful mix of innocence and mischief, making him an engaging protagonist. This comic book delves into Nizu’s whimsical perspective, highlighting his ability to find joy and excitement in the mundane. This exploration of Nizu’s character adds depth to the narrative, inviting us as readers to see the world through his imaginative eyes.

The side characters in this comic book, though not extensively developed, complements Nizu’s adventures with their varied personalities and reactions. Their interactions with Nizu add layers of humor and warmth to the story, enhancing the overall charm of the narrative.

The artwork in this comic book is vibrant and expressive, perfectly capturing the playful tone of the story. The illustrations in this comic book bring the characters and settings to life with bold lines which create a visually appealing experience. The art style enhances the whimsical atmosphere, which have drawn me into the lighthearted world of Nizu.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are simple and effective, reflecting the youthful voices and playful exchanges between characters. Conversations are filled with humor and lightness, contributing significantly to the overall mood of the story. This approach helps establish a connection with us as readers, making the narrative both accessible and enjoyable.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration of imagination and wonder. This comic book weaves these themes into the narrative, encouraging us as readers to reflect on the joy of seeing the world through a child’s eyes. These themes add depth and resonance, elevating the story beyond a simple comedic tale.

Despite its strengths, this comic book occasionally lacks depth in terms of plot complexity and character exploration. Picky readers as myself might desire more substance or development in certain areas. However, the simplicity and charm of the narrative are likely intentional, aimed at capturing the lighthearted essence of childhood adventures.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Berger Books” By Karen Berger & Alberto Ponticelli & Paul Pope Review

As the founding editor of Vertigo, I’m so excited to be back in comics in a big way and couldn’t be happier about setting up shop with the very fine crew at Dark Horse. Stories that are smart, sensational, and a bit strange have always been my passion — and I’m thrilled to present you with a quick look at our launch titles debuting in early 2018. Come experience weird realities, true fictions, dark secrets, and monsters of a different kind.

This comic book offers a compelling and diverse collection of stories that showcase the creative range and vision of its contributors. At the same time this comic book serves as a testament to the innovative storytelling and artistic brilliance that define the Berger Books imprint.

Karen Berger, renowned for her groundbreaking work in the comic book industry, curates a selection that highlights both emerging and established voices. The anthology’s strength lies in its variety, presenting readers with a rich tapestry of genres and themes. Each story is distinct yet unified by a commitment to pushing narrative boundaries and exploring complex characters.

Alberto Ponticelli’s contributions stand out with his unique visual storytelling. His illustrations are dynamic and expressive, capturing the essence of each narrative with precision and flair. Ponticelli’s ability to convey emotion and movement enhances the reading experience, which had drawn me personally into the worlds he creates. The detailed artwork complements the stories’ themes, adding depth and texture that enrich the overall narrative.

Paul Pope’s work further elevates the anthology with his signature style, blending bold lines with a kinetic energy that leaps off the page. His artistic contributions are both striking and immersive, providing a visual feast that complements the diverse storytelling. Pope’s ability to craft visually compelling narratives adds an additional layer of engagement, making his stories memorable and impactful.

This comic book excels in its exploration of varied themes, from personal identity and societal issues to speculative fiction and fantastical elements. Each story invites readers to reflect on different aspects of the human experience, offering both entertainment and introspection. This thematic richness ensures that there is something for every reader, making the collection both accessible and thought-provoking.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its commitment to diversity, both in terms of storytelling and representation. This comic book features a wide range of characters and perspectives, providing a platform for voices that are often underrepresented in mainstream comics. This inclusivity enhances the anthology’s appeal, making it relevant and resonant with a broad audience.

While this comic book’s diversity is a significant strength, the varied nature of the stories can lead to an uneven experience. Some narratives may resonate more strongly with readers than others, depending on individual tastes and preferences. However, the overall quality of the storytelling and artwork ensures that each contribution offers something valuable and engaging.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Play Ball: Preview” By Nunzio DeFilippis & Christina Weir & Jackie Lewis Review

10-Page Preview! Most girls, when they get to a new school, just want to fit in. But Dashiell Brody isn’t like most girls. A natural at softball, Dashiell discovers her new school has a championship level baseball team, and Dashiell wants to play ball. One girl’s quest to play the national pastime with the boys will turn her family, her school, and her state upside down.

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 us a charming introduction to a story about sports, friendship, and self-discovery. At the same time this preview sets the stage for a narrative that combines the excitement of baseball with personal growth and team dynamics.

The story in this preview follows a young protagonist navigating the challenges of joining a new baseball team. The creators of this preview create a plot that is both engaging and relatable, capturing the ups and downs of sports life while exploring themes of perseverance and camaraderie. The narrative flows smoothly, maintaining a balance between action on the field and introspective moments off it.

The character development is a highlight of this preview. The protagonist is portrayed with a mix of vulnerability and determination, making their journey relatable and compelling. This preview delve into the character’s internal struggles and aspirations, setting the foundation for potential growth and development. The relationships with teammates are sketched with care, hinting at deeper dynamics and the importance of teamwork.

The artwork in this preview complements the narrative with its clear and expressive style. The illustrations capture the energy and movement of baseball, bringing the sport to life with dynamic action sequences. The use of detail and character expressions enhances the storytelling, making the interactions and emotions of the characters more vivid and engaging.

The dialogues throughout this preview is straightforward and effective, reflecting the authors’ ability to capture the essence of youthful voices. Conversations feel natural and contribute significantly to character development and plot progression. The balance of humor and sincerity in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both entertaining and meaningful.

One of the strengths of this preview its thematic exploration. This preview delve into themes of resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams, inviting us as readers to reflect on the personal challenges faced by the protagonist. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

Despite its strengths, the preview occasionally feels constrained by its brevity, leaving certain plot points and character arcs underexplored. However, this sense of anticipation serves to heighten interest in the full story, encouraging us as readers to seek out the complete narrative.

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

“The Secret He Must Claim Vol. 1” By Takako Shigematsu & Chantelle Shaw Review

Elin, the adopted child of a prestigious family, keeps up the facade of a party girl for the tabloids in order to protect her brother. Exhausted by the emptiness of her reality, she gives her virginity to Cortez, an attractive stranger whom she has just met. One year later, after giving birth to a baby, Elin is shocked by her adopted father’s deathbed revelation. She must marry within one year or else her inheritance rights will be transferred to another heir—and this newly appeared heir is Cortez!

This comic book presents a dramatic romance that unfortunately falls flat in execution. While the premise of this comic book promises intrigue and emotional depth, the delivery lacks the necessary elements to fully engage me personally.

The story in this comic book centers around a tangled web of secrets and romance, with a plot that initially seems promising. The creators of this comic book adapts the narrative aiming to capture the intensity and allure of hidden truths and passionate encounters. However, the plot often feels predictable, relying heavily on clichéd tropes without offering fresh perspectives or unique twists to invigorate the narrative.

The character development is one of the key areas where this comic book struggles. The protagonists, while they have the potential to be compelling, are not sufficiently fleshed out to make their emotional journeys engaging. The heroine’s motivations and internal conflicts are superficially explored, leaving her actions and choices feeling unconvincing. Similarly, the male lead lacks the depth and complexity needed to elevate the romance beyond a basic storyline.

The dialogues throughout this comic book tends to be stilted and occasionally lacks authenticity. Conversations between characters often feel forced and lack the natural flow that would make their interactions more believable and engaging. This hampers the emotional impact of key scenes, making it difficult for me personally to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

The artwork in this comic book is competent but does little to enhance the storytelling. While the illustrations capture the elegance of the characters and their glamorous lifestyles, they lack the expressiveness needed to convey the emotional nuances of the story. The art style, while visually pleasing, fails to elevate the narrative or compensate for its shortcomings.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with certain plot developments feeling rushed and others dragging without significant progression. This inconsistency disrupts the narrative flow, making it challenging for me personally to maintain interest. A more balanced approach to pacing could have allowed for deeper exploration of character arcs and thematic elements.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does have moments that hint at its potential. The premise of hidden secrets and the quest for truth offers a foundation that could be built upon in future installments. Additionally, the setting provides a rich backdrop that, with more development, could enhance the romantic and dramatic elements of the story.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Stray: Who Killed the Doberman?- Introduction” By Vito Delsante Review

Collecting the hit mini-series, STRAY tells the story of Rodney Weller, the former sidekick known as “the Rottweiler.” When his mentor, the Doberman, is murdered, Rodney has to decide if he wants to come back to the world of capes and masks and, if he does, who he wants to be. Cover by Dean Haspiel (The Fox)!

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 promising entry into the world of superhero noir. This preview sets the stage for a mystery-driven narrative filled with action and character exploration.

The story in this preview follows Rodney Weller, also known as Stray, as he investigates the murder of his former mentor, the Doberman. The creators of this preview create a plot that combines classic detective elements with superhero dynamics, creating a unique blend of genres. The narrative is engaging, though it occasionally struggles with pacing, balancing introspective moments with action sequences.

The character development is a key strength of this preview. Rodney is portrayed as a complex protagonist, grappling with the loss of his mentor and the burden of stepping into his shoes. This preview delves into Rodney’s internal conflicts and motivations, making his journey relatable and compelling. The exploration of Rodney’s past and his relationships with other characters adds layers to the narrative, enhancing the overall impact of the story.

The side characters, while not extensively developed in this preview, shows potential for growth. Their interactions with Rodney hint at deeper connections and conflicts, setting the stage for future character dynamics. This focus on relationships enriches the narrative, making the world of “Stray” feel more vibrant and interconnected.

The artwork in this preview complements the narrative with its gritty and dynamic style. The illustrations capture the essence of a superhero noir, using shadow and contrast to enhance the mood and atmosphere. The visual storytelling effectively conveys the tension and urgency of Rodney’s investigation which have drawn me into the mystery at the heart of the story.

The dialogues throughout this preview are sharp and engaging, reflecting this preview’s talent for crafting authentic character interactions. Conversations feel natural and contribute significantly to character development and plot progression. The balance of tension and emotion in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both entertaining and meaningful.

One of the strengths of this preview is its thematic exploration. This preview delves into themes of legacy, identity, and the complexities of mentorship, inviting us as readers to reflect on the challenges faced by Rodney. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

Despite this preview’s strengths, it occasionally leaves certain plot threads underexplored, which have left me eager for more resolution. However, this sense of mystery and anticipation serves to heighten interest in full version of this comic book, encouraging continued engagement with the series.

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 3 / 5

“The Fallen Greek Bride Vol. 1” By  Sara Nakayama & Jane Porter Review

After five years of separation, Morgan visits her estranged husband in Greece. Drakon Sebastian Xanthis is a world-class tycoon and owner of a widely successful marine corporation. When they got married five years ago, Morgan couldn’t endure their loveless marriage and fled to America, but now she is caught in a major dilemma. Her father has been abducted by pirates, who are holding him for a six-million-dollar ransom. She has no choice but to beg her former husband for help. Drakon doesn’t hesitate to write her a check. However, seeing him again, Morgan realizes that she is still deeply in love with the gorgeous Greek man.

This comic book attempts to weave a tale of romance and drama but falls short in its execution. While the premise of this comic book  promises intrigue and emotional depth, the delivery lacks the necessary elements to fully engage me personally.

The story in this comic book revolves around a complex relationship set against the backdrop of a luxurious Greek setting. Sara Nakayama adapts Jane Porter’s narrative, aiming to capture the allure of romance intertwined with personal conflict. However, the plot often feels predictable, relying heavily on clichéd tropes without offering fresh perspectives or twists to invigorate the narrative.

The character development is one of the key areas where this comic book struggles. The protagonists, while initially intriguing, are not given enough depth to make their emotional journeys compelling. The heroine’s motivations and inner conflicts are superficially explored, leaving her actions and decisions feeling unconvincing. Similarly, the male lead lacks the complexity needed to elevate the romance beyond a basic storyline.

The dialogues throughout this comic book tends to be stilted and occasionally lacks authenticity. Conversations between characters often feel forced, lacking the natural flow that would make their interactions more believable and engaging. This hampers the emotional impact of key scenes, making it difficult for readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

The artwork in this comic book is competent but does little to enhance the storytelling. While the illustrations capture the elegance of the Greek setting and the characters’ glamorous lifestyles, they lack the expressiveness needed to convey the emotional nuances of the story. The art style, while visually pleasing, fails to elevate the narrative or compensate for its shortcomings.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with certain plot developments feeling rushed and others dragging without significant progression. This inconsistency disrupts the narrative flow, making it challenging for me personally to maintain interest. A more balanced approach to pacing could have allowed for deeper exploration of character arcs and thematic elements.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does have moments that hint at its potential. The setting provides a rich backdrop that, with more development, could enhance the romantic and dramatic elements of the story. Additionally, the premise of personal redemption and rekindled love offers a foundation that could be built upon in future installments.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“XOC: Journey of A Great White: Preview” By Matt Dembicki Review

10-Page Preview! Xoc explores the ocean’s wonders through the eyes of a great white as it treks from the Farallon Islands off the coast of California to the warm waters of Hawaii some 2,300 miles away. Along its journey, the 17-foot shark encounters natural prey and predators – from skittish seals to brazen orcas-as well as man-made impediments that threaten not only the giant fish, but the balance of ocean’s ecology.

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 fascinating glimpse into the life of one of the ocean’s most formidable creatures. At the same time this preview provides an engaging blend of education and storytelling, which has drawn me into the majestic and perilous world of the great white shark.

The narrative of this preview follows XOC, a great white shark, on a journey through the vast and often dangerous ocean. The creators of this preview create a story that is both informative and captivating, effectively conveying the challenges and wonders of life beneath the waves. The plot is well-paced, balancing moments of tension and tranquility that have kept me invested in XOC’s journey.

Then character development in this preview, while limited by the nature of the story, is handled with care. There creators of this preview imbues XOC with a sense of presence and personality, allowing us as readers to connect with the shark’s experiences and challenges. By focusing on the perspective of the shark, this preview invites us as readers to empathize with a creature often misunderstood, offering a fresh and insightful view of its life.

The artwork in preview, is a highlight, capturing the beauty and diversity of the ocean with stunning illustrations. The use of details in the artwork of this preview enhances the visual storytelling, creating an immersive experience that transports us as readers into the depths of the sea

The artistic style of the artwork in this preview effectively conveys the dynamic movements of marine life, capturing both the grace and power of XOC as it navigates its environment.

The dialogue and narrative style in this preview are simple yet effective, reflecting this comic book’s ability to convey complex ecological themes in an accessible manner. The text complements the artwork, providing context and depth to the visual journey. This approach ensures that readers of all ages can appreciate the story’s educational aspects without feeling overwhelmed.

One of the strengths of this preview is its thematic exploration. This preview delves into themes of survival, adaptation, and the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story. By highlighting the interconnectedness of ocean life, the preview encourages us as readers to reflect on the importance of preserving our natural world.

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

“The Origin of Beast Boy” By Len Wein Review

Beast Boy’s origin is explained!

This comic book offers us a fascinating glimpse into the backstory of one of DC Comics’ most beloved characters. The narrative of this come book deftly combines emotion, action, and character development, making it a standout addition to the lore of Beast Boy.

The story in this comic book  traces the journey of Garfield Logan, better known as Beast Boy, exploring the events that shaped his unique abilities and character. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that is both engaging and insightful, delving into the complexities of Garfield’s life with sensitivity and depth. The plot is well-paced, balancing action-packed sequences with moments of introspection that enrich the overall story.

The character development is a highlight of this comic book. This comic book provides a rich exploration of Garfield’s personality, capturing his transformation from a vulnerable child to a resilient hero. The emotional depth given to Beast Boy’s backstory adds layers to his character, making him relatable and compelling. I personally was drawn into his struggles and triumphs, gaining a deeper understanding of the motivations that drive him.

This come book skillfully portrays the relationships that have influenced Garfield’s life. The interactions with his family and mentors are depicted with nuance, highlighting the impact of these connections on his development. These relationships add emotional weight to the narrative, emphasizing themes of belonging and acceptance.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative with its dynamic and expressive style. The illustrations capture the essence of Beast Boy’s world, from the vibrant transformations to the emotional moments that define his journey. The use of color and detail enhances the storytelling, creating an immersive visual experience that brings the narrative to life.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and authentic, reflecting this comic book’s talent for capturing the distinct voices of his characters. Conversations are engaging and contribute significantly to plot progression and character development. The balance of humor, tension, and sincerity in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both entertaining and meaningful.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration. This comic book delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the search for belonging, inviting us as readers to reflect on Garfield’s journey and its broader implications. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

Despite this comic book’s strengths the story occasionally leaves certain plot threads open-ended, which have left me eager for more resolution. However, this sense of mystery and anticipation serves to heighten interest in Beast Boy’s future adventures, encouraging continued engagement with his character.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Bottle of Awesome #1” By Andy Belanger Review

Billy Butterman is a loser, a putz. High school is a total all the cool guys pick on him, girls ignore him, and worse yet, everyone calls him “Butterpants” because he had bladder control problems until age twelve. That is, until the day he encounters a mysterious hobo, who urges him into drink from a bottle of awesome. However, he warns Billy not to drink too much, for a person can become too awesome. Will Billy heed his words?

This comic book is an intriguing comic that blends elements of fantasy and humor. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a quirky and imaginative world, though it occasionally struggles with pacing and depth.

The narrative in this comic book centers around a protagonist who discovers a mysterious bottle that grants unexpected powers.

The storytelling aspect of this comic book is vibrant and playful, capturing the whimsical nature of the premise. The concept is fresh and offers plenty of room for creative exploration, which had drawn me personally into a world where anything seems possible.

The character development is one area where this comic book both shines and falters. The protagonist is relatable and engaging, with a sense of humor that adds charm to the narrative. However, supporting characters are not as fleshed out, leaving some interactions feeling superficial. With more focus on developing these characters, future issues could enhance the overall depth of the story.

The plot in this comic book unfolds with a blend of action and comedy, providing a lighthearted tone that suits the fantastical elements. While the humor is effective in places, it sometimes overshadows the story’s progression. Balancing the comedic elements with more substantial plot development could improve the narrative flow and has kept me personally more engaged.

Artwork in this comic book is a highlight, which is bringing the fantastical elements to life with bold and dynamic illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book is energetic, perfectly complementing the whimsical tone of the comic. The detailed character designs and imaginative settings add visual interest, which had drawn me into the vibrant world he has created.

The pacing in this comic book can feel uneven at times. The story moves quickly through certain developments, leaving little room for tension or character exploration. Slowing down to explore key moments more deeply could provide a more satisfying and immersive reading experience.

Despite these challenges in this comic book offers a promising start to a series that has the potential to grow. The unique premise and engaging protagonist provide a strong foundation for future installments. With more focused character development and balanced storytelling, upcoming issues could fully realize the comic’s potential.

I Give This Book 3 / 5