“Blade Runner 2019 FCBD” By Michael Green & Mike Johnson & Andres Guinaldo Review

The early Nexus models were intended to reassure the public – and corporate interests – that Replicants were viable replacements to perform jobs considered too hazardous or mundane for humans.

This comic book is a captivating expansion of the Blade Runner universe. At the same time this comic book captures the essence of the film while introducing fresh elements that enrich the narrative.

This comic book is set in the dystopian future of 2019 Los Angeles, the story follows Aahna “Ash” Ashina, a skilled Blade Runner tasked with hunting down rogue replicants. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, exploring themes of identity, humanity, and morality. The plot is tightly woven, which had drawn me personally into a world where the lines between human and machine blur.

The writing in this comic book excels in capturing the noir atmosphere that defines the Blade Runner franchise. Dialogue is crisp and reflective, adding depth to the characters and their interactions. Ash is portrayed as a complex and compelling protagonist, whose internal struggles and ethical dilemmas resonate throughout the narrative. Her character development is handled with nuance, making her journey both relatable and intriguing.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the gritty, rain-soaked streets of Los Angeles to life with stunning detail. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the mood and aesthetic of the Blade Runner world, from the neon-lit cityscapes to the dark, shadowy alleyways. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through character expressions and dynamic compositions enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually captivating.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a balance between action and introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in Ash’s mission. 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 fans of the series.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as identity, survival, and the nature of humanity. 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 complexities of what it means to be human and the moral implications of creating artificial life, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“DC’s Year of the Villain Special #1” By James Tynion IV & Tom King & Brian Michael Bendis Review

Evil is winning! Lex Luthor and The Legion of Doom conspire with Cosmic Gods, bending mankind toward a dark destiny. Elsewhere, the scourge of Leviathan spreads unchecked, seizing power in every corner of the world. And all the while the Batman Who Laughs busies himself in the shadows, aligned with no one-yet with sinister plans for all.

This comic book is a thrilling and masterfully crafted comic book. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a universe-wide event, expertly weaving together multiple storylines that highlight the dark and complex world of DC’s most notorious villains.

This comic book opens with Lex Luthor, who is at the heart of a grand scheme that promises to reshape the balance of power across the DC Universe. The writing in this comic book captures Luthor’s cunning and ambition perfectly, setting him up as a formidable mastermind. The narrative explores the depths of his character, providing insight into his motivations and the lengths he will go to achieve his goals.

Tom King contributes a compelling segment focusing on the machinations of other key villains. His writing delves into their psyches, exploring their motivations and adding layers of complexity to their characters. King’s ability to humanize these villains while maintaining their menacing nature creates a captivating dynamic that has kept me personally engaged.

Brian Michael Bendis introduces an element of intrigue and suspense, effectively setting the tone for the chaos that is about to unfold. His contribution ties seamlessly into the overarching narrative, ensuring that this comic book flows smoothly from one storyline to the next. Bendis’s dialogue is sharp and engaging, capturing the tension and stakes of the unfolding drama.

The artwork throughout this comic book is exceptional, with each artist bringing their unique style to the table. The illustrations are dynamic and detailed, capturing both the grandeur of the villains’ schemes and the subtleties of their character interactions. The art effectively enhances the storytelling, which had drawn me personally into the dark and twisted world of the villains.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as power, ambition, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. The creators of this comic book weave 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 morality and the choices that define a villain’s path, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a balance between intense action sequences and character-driven moments. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the fates of the characters. The seamless integration of multiple storylines ensures that this comic book remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and longtime fans.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Styx & Stone #2 (Styx & Stone)” By Adam Gragg & Darren G. Davis & Stefano Cardoselli Review

If the gruesome murder of a college student wasn’t bad enough, apathetic detective Mel Stone has to deal with monsters inside his own head – or at least a monster in the form of the criminal James Wyatt! After a scintillating visit from the fates, Mel is one step closer to uncovering the reason why he must share his body with Wyatt. Meanwhile, rookie Detective Claire Sanchez prepares to dive right into the criminal underworld and finds herself in over her head!

This comic book is a thrilling continuation of the supernatural detective series. At the same time this comic book builds on the foundation laid in the debut, delivering a gripping narrative filled with mystery, dark humor, and atmospheric artistry.

The story in this comic book follows Jacob Stone, a detective with a unique ability to communicate with the supernatural, as he delves deeper into a world where the line between the living and the dead is blurred. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that is both engaging and complex, weaving together elements of noir and horror to create a compelling tapestry of intrigue. The plot thickens with unexpected twists, which has kept me personally on the edge of my seat while exploring the darker corners of the supernatural world which this comic book offers us. 

The character development is a standout in this comic book. Jacob Stone is portrayed with depth and nuance, showcasing his internal struggles and moral dilemmas. The creators of this comic book excel at fleshing out Stone’s character, making him both relatable and enigmatic. The supporting cast is equally compelling, each with their own secrets and motivations that add layers to the narrative.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a perfect match for the tone of the series. The gritty, expressive style of the artwork in this comic book captures the eerie and unsettling atmosphere that defines “Styx & Stone.” The illustrations of this comic book are both dynamic and detailed, effectively conveying the tension and drama of the storyline. The use of shadow and contrast enhances the mood, creating a visually immersive experience that had drawn me personally into the haunting world.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to balance action and introspection. The creators of this comic book ensure that the narrative remains fast-paced and exciting while allowing for moments of character reflection and emotional depth. This balance keeps the story engaging and ensures that has kept me personally invested in both the plot and the characters.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a rhythm that has kept me personally engaged from start to finish. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a sense of progression and momentum that propels the narrative forward. This well-executed pacing ensures that the story flows smoothly, making for a satisfying and immersive reading experience.

I Give This Book 5 / 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

“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

“Sketch Monsters Vol. 2: New Kid Preview” By Joshua Williamson & Vincente “Vinny” Navarrete Review

24-Page Preview! Tony’s nervous about his first day at a new school. Instead of acting normally, he tries being the class clown, the teacher’s pet, and sadly… even the bully. He draws his other identities as MONSTERS in his sketchbook. But Tony’s monsters escape all over the school! Thankfully, Mandy also goes to Tony’s school and can lend a helping hand! Can Tony and Mandy catch all of the new Sketch Monsters before they demolish the school?!

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 delivers a charming and visually engaging story. At the same time this preview continues the whimsical adventures that blend creativity with coming-of-age themes, offering a delightful yet somewhat limited preview into the world of the Sketch Monsters.

The narrative in this preview follows Mandy, a young girl whose emotions manifest as quirky monsters that leap off the pages of her sketchbook. This clever premise allows the story to explore themes of emotion, creativity, and friendship in a way that is accessible and relatable for younger readers. In “New Kid,” Mandy encounters new challenges with the arrival of a new student, which adds a fresh dynamic to her world.

The writing in this preview is lighthearted and engaging, capturing the essence of childhood imagination. The dialogue is straightforward and effective, making it easy for me personally to follow the story. Mandy’s interactions with her monsters and peers highlight the struggles and joys of growing up, resonating with anyone who remembers the complexities of childhood friendships and emotions.

The artwork shines throughout this preview because it is bringing the monsters and Mandy’s world to life with vibrant colors and expressive designs. The illustrations are playful and dynamic, perfectly complementing the whimsical tone of the story. The artwork in this preview has the ability to capture the emotion and movement in each panel adds depth to the narrative, making it visually appealing for readers of all ages.

While this preview succeeds in many areas, it does have some limitations. The preview format means the story is relatively short, leaving certain plotlines and character developments underexplored. I personally have found myself wanting more depth and complexity in both the narrative and the character arcs.

Additionally, while the themes are relatable and well-presented, they may feel somewhat simplistic for older readers. The story’s focus on younger audiences means it doesn’t delve deeply into the more nuanced aspects of the issues it touches upon. However, for its target demographic, the simplicity and clarity of the themes are appropriate and effective.

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

“Invincible #1” By Robert Kirkman & Cory Walker Review

Girls, acne, homework, super-villains. When you’re a teenager, it helps to be Invincible. Robert Kirkman’s long-running book Invincible starts here!

This comic book is a promising introduction to a superhero narrative that combines classic elements with a modern twist. While this comic book lays a strong foundation, it occasionally struggles with pacing and depth.

The story in this comic book follows Mark Grayson, a seemingly ordinary teenager whose father is the world’s most powerful superhero, Omni-Man. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that explores Mark’s journey as he discovers his own powers and steps into his role as a hero. The premise is engaging, offering a fresh perspective on the superhero genre by focusing on the complexities of a young hero coming of age.

The writing in this comic book captures the essence of a teenager navigating newfound responsibilities while dealing with typical adolescent challenges. The dialogue is natural and relatable, effectively conveying the mix of excitement and anxiety that comes with Mark’s transformation. However, this comic book sometimes feels rushed, with key plot points introduced without sufficient buildup, which has left me personally wanting more depth and exploration.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the vibrant world of “Invincible” to life with clean lines and dynamic compositions. The character designs we get in this comic book are distinct and expressive, capturing both the grandeur of superhero action and the subtleties of everyday life. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through facial expressions enhances the storytelling, making each panel engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is a mixed bag. While this comic book effectively introduces key characters and sets up the overarching narrative, some scenes feel hurried, impacting the overall flow. This inconsistency has left me at times wanting more immediate clarity and deeper exploration of the characters’ motivations and the story’s intricacies.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book successfully establishes a strong foundation for future development. The creators of this comic book lay the groundwork for intriguing character arcs and plotlines that promise to evolve in subsequent comic books in this series. The engaging premise and strong visual storytelling suggest potential for growth and depth as the series progresses.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as identity, responsibility, and the challenges of balancing personal and heroic lives. 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 heroism and the choices that define a young hero’s path, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“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

“Marvel’s Voices #1” By Vita Ayala & Roxane Gay & Brian Stelfreeze Review

THE WORLD OUTSIDE YOUR WINDOW! Marvel’s acclaimed podcast series focusing on telling the stories of diverse creators and their unique perspectives becomes a one shot of brand new adventures! The X-Men find their place in the world after declaring a new nation! Killmonger strikes! Moon Girl and Devil Dino return!

This comic book featuring stories by a talented group of creators including Vita Ayala, Roxane Gay, and Brian Stelfreeze. Despite its noble intentions, this comic book falls short in execution. While the anthology format that this comic book offers a platform for underrepresented voices, the narrative cohesion and depth are lacking.

The concept behind this comic book is commendable, providing a space for creators from diverse backgrounds to tell stories that reflect their experiences. However, the issue struggles to maintain a consistent quality across its multiple stories. The anthology format, while allowing for a variety of perspectives, results in uneven storytelling that lacks a unifying thread.

Individual stories in this comic book often feel too brief to develop meaningful narratives or character arcs. This brevity limits the emotional impact and depth that each story can achieve, which has left me personally wanting more. While some stories manage to capture moments of genuine insight or emotion, others feel rushed or underdeveloped.

Vita Ayala’s contribution stands out for its attempt to delve into the complexities of identity and belonging. However, the limited page count restricts the exploration of these themes, making the narrative feel more like a snapshot than a fully realized story. Similarly, Roxane Gay’s story, while well-written, struggles to leave a lasting impression due to its brevity.

The artwork itself in this comic book, along with contributions from other artists, adds visual appeal to this comic book. The diverse art styles reflect the variety of stories being told, capturing the unique tone and mood of each narrative. However, the visual charm isn’t enough to elevate the overall reading experience, as the lack of narrative depth persists throughout this comic book.

The pacing of this comic book varies significantly between stories, resulting in an uneven flow that disrupts my engagement. Some narratives feel rushed, while others linger without building significant tension or emotional resonance. This inconsistency prevents the anthology from achieving a cohesive narrative arc, leaving the overall impact diluted.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does succeed in highlighting the importance of representation and inclusivity in the comic book industry. This comic book brings attention to voices and stories that are often marginalized, offering a platform for creators to share their unique perspectives. This aspect of the anthology is valuable and deserves recognition.

I Give This Book 2 / 5