Tag Archives: heathen

Review: Heathen Vol. 1

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It is very easy to understand why popular culture’s current obsession with Vikings is so viral. The show, Vikings, has a massive following and has introduced the world to more than a handful of Viking heroes not named Erik. Thor, in and his place in the MCU, has been more cemented as they have delved into Norse mythology. It has even inspired Neil Gaiman, who recently wrote his version of what he liked about the Nordic gods.

In American Gods, Mr. Wednesday plays a huge part in the show and the book, better known as Odin. In what is probably my favorite version of the Nordic gods, The Almighty Johnsons, they bring an updated version of these deities in a modern setting. The best stories when it comes this mythology, is those of normal beings mixing it up with ominous figures. This the tale that is being told, in Heathen Volume 1, which tells the story of Aydis.

The reader meets her as she wanders the countryside looking for food, as she is a Viking warrior who is an outcast because of her sexuality, when she meets an old friend and love interest, Liv, until she is interrupted, a god, Ruadan. She embarks on an odyssey to prove her bravery until a goddess, Frigga, the current commander of the Valkyries, tricks her into leading another goddess, Brynhilde, who used to command the Valkyries into the mortal world. She gets kidnapped by the Frigga, coincidentally is the goddess of love, who wants to recruit to the Valkyries but not before exacting her revenge on Odin. By book’s end, Brynhilde, is searching for Aydis with the help of an old friend as she starts her path to Odin.

Overall, an exciting and different story in a well-traveled subgenre intermingled with modern sensibilities. The story by Natasha Alterici is action packed, full of heart and wraps the reader with its prose. The art by Alterici is gorgeous. Altogether, a story we have not seen quite enough in fantasy epics that need to be told more often.

Story: Natasha Alterici Art: Natasha Alterici
Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

Each week our contributors are choosing up to five books and why they’re choosing the books. In other words, this is what we’re looking forward to and think you should be taking a look!

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Black Hammer #12 (Dark Horse) – Jeff Lemire continues to impress with his take on deconstructing super heroes.

Detective Comics #963 (DC Comics) – Things are kicking up as the group now knows that Tim Drake is alive. But, before we get to that this issue focuses on Spoiler and Anarky.

Mother Panic #10 (DC Comics/Young Animal) – Batman without the restraint. Just brutal and awesome.

Nightwing: The New Order #1 (DC Comics) – Maybe not the best timing but we’re intrigued to see what this fascist Nightwing has in store for us.

First Strike #2 (IDW Publishing) – The first issue started off with a bang (literally) and we can’t wait to see what the second brings in this crossover of properties like G.I. Joe and Transformers.

Saucer State #3 (IDW Publishing) – Aliens. Conspiracies. Politics. The President of the United States. Yes please!

Hard Place #1 (Image Comics) – A former wheelman tries to go straight but is caught up in a robbery and is being chased by the cops and Russian mob. Sounds awesome!

Lazarus X Plus 66 #2 (Image Comics) – Some of the best world building in all of entertainment.

Shirtless Bear-Fighter #3 (Image Comics) – The concept is goofy but we’ve been having a blast with this series.

Generations: Unworthy Thor & Mighty Thor #1 (Marvel) – We’re not quite sure the big picture point of these one-shots, but we’re still holding out hope.

Secret Empire #9 (Marvel) – We’ve had mixed reactions here as to this event (generally negative) but with one more issue to go we want to see how it wraps up and if there’s any way to right this wrong.

X-Men: Gold #10 (Marvel) – The relaunched X line from Marvel has been a big improvement and this is easily its best series.

Bubblegun Vol. 2 #4 (Aspen) -A fun sci-fi series with eye catching visuals that feels like it should have a game to go along with it.

Catalyst Prime: Incidentals #1 (Lion Forge) – The company’s latest addition to its Catalyst Prime line of comics and the first group book. We’re intrigued to see where things go and how this stands out.

Clueless (BOOM! Studios) – As if!? The classic film gets a new graphic novel and we’re so ready to head back to the 90s.

Heathen #5 (Vault Comics) – The first four issues have been fantastic to read and look at in this new take with a vikings(ish) world.

Hi-Fi Fight Club #1 (BOOM! Studios) – Sounds like a riff on Empire Records. We’re sold on that alone.

Letter 44 #35 (Oni Press) – All the answers!!! ALL OF THEM!!! The series wraps up with this final issue.

Sisters of Sorrow #2 (BOOM! Studios) – A gritty series from the same person that did Sons of Anarchy. The first issue felt like a 70s exploitation/revenge film in a way and it’ll be interesting to see where the series goes from there.

War Mother #1 (Valiant) – This character has been touched upon a few times through various Valiant events, but she’s finally getting her own series and we can’t wait to see what’s done with the character. Valiant consistently knocks it out of the park and we’re expecting no less with this one.

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Alex

Top Pick: Immortal Brothers: The Green Knight #1 (Valiant) – The Eternal Warrior has become one of my favourite characters, so this 48 page one-shot by Matt Kindt and Cary Nord that places him and his brothers in King Arthur’s court (another subject I’m very fond of) is going to rocket to the top of my pull list. I’ve been looking forward to this for months.

Old Man Logan #21 (Marvel) – Logan heads back in time to, I assume, various points in his past. I know nothing about this series beyond the front covers, but they look so incredibly exciting.

Redline #2 (Oni Press) – It’s not often I get excited about sci-fi comics… but this is one of the ones that tickles my fancy,

Voracious: Feeding Time #5 (Action Lab Entertainment/Action Lab: Danger Zone) – I make no secret of my love for this series whatsoever, and the finale to the second miniseries is going to be explosive – and awesome. My expectations are through the roof for this, but Markisan Naso and Jason Muhr have a habit of smashing those to smithereens with each issue.

 

Patrick

Top Pick: Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys: The Big Lie #2 (Dynamite Entertainment) – Last issue introduced us to Hardy Boys noir, let’s see what’s in store for Nancy.

All-Time Comics: Bullwhip #1 (Fantagraphics) – The idea of this line is so perfect and ridiculous it’s a must for me.

Spencer and Locke #1 (Action Lab Entertainment/Action Lab: Danger Zone) – Calvin & Hobbes noir. I’ll take that for at least one issue.

American Barbarian Complete Series (IDW Publishing) – !!!

 

Joe

Top Pick: Old Man Logan #21 (Marvel) – I can’t believe Lemire’s run is almost over, but this four issue arc sounds like a hell of a way to go out on top.

Seven to Eternity #5 (Image) – It’s back! The book returns after a usual image trade release break, and I’m stoked to see what Remender does.

Grass Kings #2 (BOOM! Studios) – After a promising first issue from one of my favorite writers, Matt Kindt, I am hyped for the second one.

Action Comics #977 (DC Comics) – The Superman Reborn arc was a lot of fun, and this comic has been consistently great. What’s next for Supes?

Detective Comics #954 (DC Comics) – A classic villain and Batman prepare to battle? Or will they? Tynion is killing it on this book and I’m so excited to see where this story goes, especially involving Orphan so much.

 

Shay

It’s an amazing week to be a comic book lover. It was really hard to narrow it down to the seven titles I picked.

Top Pick: Neil Gaiman’s American Gods Shadow #2 (Dark Horse) – Shadow’s life is about to get even more interesting in this graphic serial version of almost everyone favorite Gaiman book. Come for the David Mack variant covers, stay for the amazing story.

Top Pick: Black Panther and the Crew #1 (Marvel) – YES PLEASE. So many black superheroes, such a strong story, so much action. Saying I am here for the page turning story arc is an understatement.

America #1 2nd Printing (Marvel) – If you don’t already own a copy or haven’t read it yet, then you should get to it. Despite the shady AF comments about diversity killing the Marvel’s print sales, we have a comic book about a Queer Latina requiring a 2nd printing proving that representation counts, diversity is important and  America (the superhero & the country) is for all of us.

Kingpin #3 (Marvel) – The hits keep on coming, take that however you want, and, Kingpin is becoming a complex, fully realized, multi-faceted character.

Suicide Squad #15 (DC Comics) – The “Burning Down the House” storyline comes to an end. Deadshot is about to go up against his old team with Harley leading the charge. Rustam and his crew had better bring their A-game because, the Squad is in a take no prisoners, crack all skulls kind of mood.

Honorable Mention: Deadpool vs Punisher #1 (Marvel) – A battle of the morally gray psycho “heroes” is upon us. The man of all the action and little words meets the man with all the words and all the action.  Got popcorn?

Honorable Mention: Weapon X #1 (Marvel) – building on the awesomeness of Logan, the newest version of the Weapon X will keep you on your toes and worried about the safety of some of our favorite clawed mutants. You should be worried, this Weapon X upgrade isn’t just about creating superior mutants, it’s about kicking off a mutant genocide.

 

Paul

Top Pick: Weapon X #1 (Marvel) – I’m a sucker for shadowy government agencies, and Weapon X has a long standing history in Marvel of being one of the most shadiest and deadliest.  I’m excited to see what this new agency’s agenda is, and I’m looking forward to seeing Domino and Warpath back on a team line up.

X-Men Blue #1 (Marvel) – I’m hoping this title brings some of the fun from this teams first book, but also get them more into playing the heroes they will one day grow up to be.  And it’s going to be interesting to see how Magneto performs as mentor and how he will influence this team.  I’m thinking this is going to be a good one.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Spencer & Locke #1 (Action Lab Entertainment/Action Lab: Danger Zone) – It’s Calvin and Hobbes meets Sin City and it’s amazing. One of my favorite debuts so far of 2017 it’s entertaining and subversive.

Godshaper #1 (BOOM! Studios) – A super interesting concept where everyone has a god. I’ve read the first issue and it’s a unique idea and intriguing start.

Heathen #3 (Vault Comics) – Have you read the first two issues? That alone is reason this is on my list. A solid LGBT comic that is set in the world of vikings.

Solar Flare #1 (Scout Comics) – An apocalypse story where power goes out, Scout has been putting out entertaining comics that fly under the radar. They’ve nailed it when it comes to quality and solid comics. So, when there’s a new release it’s always on my list to check out.

The Unstoppable Wasp #4 (Marvel) – So far, the comic has been a lot of fun with a positive entertaining vibe that I can’t help but smile when I read it.

Listen to Natasha Alterici Talk The Comic Series Heathen on Demand

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On demand: iTunes ¦ Sound Cloud ¦ Stitcher ¦ Listed on podcastdirectory.com

Aydis is a viking, a warrior, an outcast, and a self-proclaimed heathen. Aydis is friend to the talking horse Saga, rescuer of the immortal Valkyrie Brynhild, and battler of demons and fantastic monsters. Aydis is a woman. Born into a time of warfare, suffering, and subjugation of women, she is on a mission to end the oppressive reign of the god-king Odin.

This Monday on a brand new Graphic Policy Radio, writer and artist Natasha Alterici discusses her series Heathen published by Vault Comics.

Natasha Alterici is a writer and artist from Oklahoma. She earned her Bachelor’s in Art from Northeastern State University in 2009, and soon after found herself working on freelance illustration and comics projects. Her work includes Heathen, Dinosaur Project, Gotham Academy: Yearbook, Grayson Annual, The Lez Film Review, and more. When not drawing, she enjoys watching cooking shows with her girlfriend and their cat.

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Mr. H

Top Pick: Batman/TMNT Adventures #5 (IDW Publishing) – This book has just been plain all out fun! I was skeptical of the quality it would be after the last Batman/ TMNT crossover, which was good but this story so far just ninjas the previous teams ass! It takes the very best aspect of Batman: The Animated Series and melds it together in the Turtles world. Each issue is better than the previous and even though they are leaning to The Mad Hatter being the big boss behind it all, when Tetch is written correctly he is quite the villainous force. I can’t wait to see how this joyride through my childhood icons ends.

Action Comics # 976 (DC Comics) – Well here it is, the battle for Superman’s future! Can Supes defeat Myx (not spelling his damn name) and get back his family or will he lose more than he gained in the process? All I know is if Jon becomes a casualty out of it, I’m going hunting with Kryptonite bullets. Nevertheless a good twist on a classic Superman character and I am enjoying the various runs on my hero since Rebirth. Can anyone say New New 52?

Reborn #5 (Image Comics) – I have really dug this team up of Millar and Capullo thus far. I don’t think it has tremendous long term value but the short term storyline has been fantastic. The art is some of Capullo’s best and Millar’s writing is less Millar-y than usual which keeps it at a nice tempo for me. Very interesting look into the theory of reincarnation and one that wants to make sure my pet gets all the love he can get before I meet him in the afterlife. A fun ride for sure, not ready to get out of the car yet.

Iron Fist #1 (Marvel Comics) – The timing for this couldn’t be better as I have just reached the middle of my binge watching of “Iron Fist” on Netflix and I love it. My Danny Rand – ometer is at it’s peak right now so more firery chi punching for me is a must. This book is welcome, hope it meets my kung fu needs.

 

Joe

Top Pick: The Unworthy Thor #5 (Marvel) – What did he do to make him unworthy?! It seems like this is the issue where we should finally learn what was whispered into Odinson’s ear.

Action Comics #976 (DC Comics) – The end of the fantastic Superman Reborn arc! I loved this entire run so far and this arc has been so crazy it works.

Doom Patrol #5 (DC’s Young Animal) – This is one of the most fun and wacky comics out. I am obsessed with Nick Derrington’s art and wished he was drawing everything lately.

Black Hammer #7 (Dark Horse) – It has returned! One of the best comics out in the medium and written by one of my favorite writers, Jeff Lemire.

Dept. H #12 (Dark Horse) – Matt and Sharlene Kindt have been so consistently good on this book every month. I love this cover and I am excited to return to the deep and find out whodunit.

 

Alex

Top Pick: X-O Manowar #1 (Valiant) – I have the review copy sat on my desktop just waiting to be opened up and read again, but before I did that, I realized that this was honestly one of the few comics this week I’m looking forward to reading (again) when I pick it up i print so I can see the art without the watermark on it. I can’t wait to see it.

Hulk #4 (Marvel) – I read the first issue of this entirely by accident and immediately found one of my favourite new series. The tension you feel as Jen struggles to not change into the Hulk is palpable, and so well written. I don’t even need a villain in the series, I could read about Jennifer Walters living her life all day long.

 

Paul

Top Pick: Extraordinary X-Men #20 (Marvel) – The war between the X-Men and the Inhumans has come to an end, and the X-Men need to figure out their next move. I am very excited for the upcoming ‘ResurreXion’ event and looking forward to seeing the new paths the X-Men take.

Top Pick: Hulk #4 (Marvel) – This has been a great book from the start, showing that even a superhero can be shaken to their core after traumatic events.  Jen has definitely seen her share, from losing her cousin to almost dying by Thanos’ hand. This book is doing a fantastic job of showing her struggle to try and gain back her life while keeping her Hulk side at bay. If you aren’t reading this book, jump in now while it’s still early; you won’t be disappointed.

Invincible Iron Man #5 (Marvel) – I’ve been enjoying this book and getting to know Riri Williams.  It’s a fun book, seeing her being mentored by AI Tony Stark, and seeing her show him a thing or two in the process.  This issue should be fun as well, as various heroes are approaching her to join their teams but, of course, we’ll some villains tag along.  This should be fun.

Unworthy Thor #5 (Marvel) – Will Odinson just pick up the damn hammer already?!?!

 

Brett

Top Pick: The Torture Report: A Graphic Adaptation (Arcade Publishing) – On December 9, 2014, the Senate Intelligence Committee released a report condemning the CIA for its secret brutal torture during the Bush administration. This graphic novel summarizes and makes that important document understandable for individuals. The illustrations add poignancy to the facts.

The Circle #4 (Action Lab: Danger Zone) – A solid teenage horror tale that mixes fantastic art with a creepy story.

Heathen #2 (Vault Comics) – The first issue was great, the second issue is somehow better. This is a fantastic new series from a relatively new voice in comics and definitely a unique spin on things. Two words: lesbian. vikings.

Powerless #1 (Vault Comics) – Everyone has powers, but a new disease takes away those abilities. A cool concept from the upstart publisher.

Terms and Conditions (Drawn & Quarterly) – R. Sikoryak has taken the iTunes Terms and Conditions and created a word for word graphic adaptation.

Natasha Alterici Talks The Comic Series Heathen LIVE this Monday

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Aydis is a viking, a warrior, an outcast, and a self-proclaimed heathen. Aydis is friend to the talking horse Saga, rescuer of the immortal Valkyrie Brynhild, and battler of demons and fantastic monsters. Aydis is a woman. Born into a time of warfare, suffering, and subjugation of women, she is on a mission to end the oppressive reign of the god-king Odin.

This Monday on a brand new Graphic Policy Radio, writer and artist Natasha Alterici discusses her series Heathen published by Vault Comics.

The show airs LIVE this Monday at 10pm ET.

Natasha Alterici is a writer and artist from Oklahoma. She earned her Bachelor’s in Art from Northeastern State University in 2009, and soon after found herself working on freelance illustration and comics projects. Her work includes Heathen, Dinosaur Project, Gotham Academy: Yearbook, Grayson Annual, The Lez Film Review, and more. When not drawing, she enjoys watching cooking shows with her girlfriend and their cat.

We want to hear from you! Tweet us your questions @graphicpolicy!

Listen to the show LIVE this Monday or catch it on demand.

Heathen #1 Gets a Second Printing with a Jen Bartel Cover

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Upstart publisher Vault Comics’ line of creator-owned science fiction and fantasy is really catching steam with rave reviews coming in, and news that the second series to be released is sold out at Diamond Comic Distributors! Heathen #1 premiered in stores on February 22nd, with the second issue in stores next week.

The publisher has announced a special second printing, featuring a brand new cover by Jen Bartel! This brand new edition is available now through Diamond Comic Distributors (JAN178931).

Natasha Alterici’s comic Heathen follows Aydis, a viking, a warrior, an outcast, and a self-proclaimed heathen. Aydis is friend to the talking horse Saga, rescuer of the immortal Valkyrie Brynhild, and battler of demons and fantastic monsters. Aydis is a woman. Born into a time of warfare, suffering, and subjugation of women, she is on a mission to end the oppressive reign of the god-king Odin.

The series has been making waves since it was first introduced through a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2015. Before coming to Vault, as part of an ever-growing lineup of the best in graphic fiction, the series saw two self released volumes, and now finds a second life in single issues on the shelves of comic book shops around the world.

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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rough-riders-on-the-storm-1Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Alex

Top Pick: Divinity III: Stalinverse #3 (Valiant) – The series, and all the tie-ins, have been excellent so far, and I’m really looking forward to seeing where Matt Kindt takes us from here on out.

Harbinger: Renegade #4 (Valiant) – It’s funny, but after getting into the Harbinger series more and more over the past few months reading the back issues whilst simultaneously following this series, I’ve found that my love and appreciation has grown exponentially – so much so that I’m salivating over getting this in my hands.

 

Paul

Top Pick: Hulk #3 (Marvel) – I didn’t know what to expect from this new (She) Hulk title, and only checked out the first issue to see what was up with Jen after the events of Civil War II.  And  I am so glad I did.  Only on its 3rd issue and I am loving the direction of this book.  It’s tackling Jen and some serious problems she facing after her injuries and doing so in such a great way, both in the writing and the art.  If you aren’t reading this book yet, jump in now while it’s still early, you will not be disappointed.

Extraordinary X-Men #19 (Marvel) – The tie-in issues to Inhumans vs. X-Men have been great, really tying in smaller stories to the larger conflict.  A few issues have been slower, doing some character building rather then focusing on action, but even that has added to the situation as a whole.  Really looking forward to this one.

Inhumans vs. X-Men #5 (Marvel) – The battle is raging on as we reach the second to last issue of this event that has delivered in every issue.  Buckle up kiddies, because I’m sure this is going to end with a bang!

Uncanny Avengers #20 (Marvel) – This title has been hit or miss with me, but with the latest issues finally bringing the team up against the Red Skull, things have gotten interesting.  The last issue saw the team trapped in their own minds by the Red Skull and his stolen telepathic powers, and this issue is promising to show us more of their torture.  I’m looking forward to see how they get out of this one, and if they will liberate Xavier’s mind from the Red Skull.

 

Shay

Top Pick: Suicide Squad #12 (DC Comics) – Suicide Squad goes up against some of the DC Universes deadliest inmates.

Justice League of America #1 (DC Comics) – Two words, Lord Havoc! There are extremists on the loose and the newly formed Justice League is coming to save us all!

Elektra #1 (Marvel) – Ninja Assassin tries to find her escape in Las Vegas. What happens in Vegas gets buried in Vegas.

Inhumans vs. X-Men #5 (Marvel) – Medusa sets out to release Black Bolt as the X-Men tries to rid the world of the rest of the deadly cloud.

SLAM! #4 (BOOM! Studios) – It’s a roller derby world and these are roller derby girls. As a derby girl myself, I can attest to its realness.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Rough Riders on the Storm #1 (Aftershock Comics) – It’s been three years since the first volume and the death of President McKinley has Vice President, Theodore Roosevelt convinced there’s a bigger conspiracy and he must get the band back together.

Heathen #1 (Vault Comics) – Originally released digitally, this Viking series by Natasha Alterici is awesome.

Highlander: American Dream #1 (IDW Publishing) – It’s Highlander, do you need any more reason to look forward to this? There can be only one!

Old Guard #1 (Image Comics) – Greg Rucka’s new series with art by Leandro Fernandez about old soldiers who never die. If the name Rucka is on it, it’s a must get.

The Time Museum (First Second) – A new graphic novel series focused on an internship at the Time Museum that leads to time traveling adventures. This is a great addition to the world of graphic novels aimed at a younger audience with lots of fun action and solid art.

Around the Tubes

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It’s a new week and some of the GP team are digging themselves out of the snow. But, that’s not stopping us from bringing you news, reviews, and more this week! We’ve got a new episode of our radio show tonight, a new episode of Jonesing for Jessica later this week, and of course our usual coverage.

While you await all of that, here’s some news and reviews from around the web in our morning roundup.

Around the Tubes

CNBC – Three publishers changing the comic book industry – Cool to see some mainstream coverage beyond the big 2.

Newsarama – Marvel Expands Role In China, C.B. Cebulski To Relocate – The company took money from Chinese investors for films, geared some films towards that market, so not really surprising it’s a focus.

ICv2 – Complete Marvel Collection Sold – While it’d have been great for this to head to a museum/library, congrats to whomever purchased it.

Black Nerd Problems – Why Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves Was the Greatest Action Movie of My Great Black Childhood – An interesting read.

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

Desert News – Comic Squad, No. 2: Lunch

Talking Comics – Devolution #1

Talking Comics – Heathen Vol. 1

Mini Reviews

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Sometimes, the staff at Graphic Policy read more comics than we’re able to get reviewed. When that happens you’ll see a weekly feature compiling short reviews from the staff of the comics, or graphic novels, we just didn’t get a chance to write a full review for. These are Graphic Policy’s Mini Reviews.

CageHero01_Cover-COLORSAlex

Cage Hero #1 is a surprisingly enjoyable mix of superpowers and mixed martial artists. A fun comic that has an amusingly unique take on the superhero origin story (even if the high school setting is somewhat familiar). Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read.

One of the more interesting takes on the vigilante heroes lately has come in the form of The Black Hood. Issue #6 is a standalone tale that focuses on the title character’s battle with an addiction to prescription  pain killers while he continues to go beyond the law in administering justice. The art is crisp and the colours entice you into the brutally honest world within these pages. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Mono is a superbly envisioned collection about a secret agent with a prehensile tale that is, frankly, visually stunning. This was a collection that captivated me from start to finish with it’s mix of pulpy goodness and pseudo history, it was a joy to read. Overall: 8.25 Recommendation: Buy

Brett

Art Ops #1 – A fascinating new Vertigo series I’m still trying to wrap my head around. It’s basic idea is that art is real, and there’s this agency that protects the beings within the pictures. At least that’s my understanding of it. It’s pretty out there. Not sure if I’m totally sold, but it’s absolutely original. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

ARTOPS-Cv1-96f41The Black Hood #6 – A one-shot that seems like it’ll lead into the next story arc. Howard Chaykin joins on art, and while I figured out the twist a bit before it was revealed, the comic is still really entertaining. If you’re looking for a comic about a cop/junkie/vigilante, then look no further! Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Chew #51 – The series is coming to its finale and this is our first look after its major confrontation and battle. We get to see where some characters are in their lives and what the world is like. There’s still some big questions to be answered, but this comic continues the over the top humor that consistently gets me to laugh. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read

The Hangman #1 – This first issue is fascinating. It doesn’t quite get us to what I think is where the series goes next, but we learn about the boogeyman that is the Hangman in the mob. The comic is absolutely adult, and really puts the “dark” in Dark Circle. It definitely piqued my interest. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

Revival #34 – What brought all the folks back to life? We still don’t know what’s behind Revivers, but this issue has some impressive revelations that started to make the puzzle clearer. It’s also a hell of a confrontation between Dana and her father. It’s an issue full of emotion and catharsis, a great jumping on point. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Daphne

The final issue of the A-Force miniseries was awesome. Ending it with an all-out war that showcased dozens of Marvel Comics ladies was a great decision, and makes me super excited for the full series to come out. The series itself wasn’t as strong in the middle as its beginning, but it ended with a great climax and I can’t wait to see more. Overall Score: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Ms. Marvel ended on a high note in time for the big company-wide relaunch initiative. With Kamala’s world ending we finally get some plot points wrapped up in really satisfying ways, and the story ends in a really optimistic and emotional that is totally worthy of the Miss Marvel name. This was probably the best “Last Days” story to come out of Secret Wars, and I love that it left us with both closure and a great setup for things to come. I can’t wait to see what happens with the relaunch. Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

Elana

Catwoman-45This has been a banner month for Catwoman, Constantine and Gotham Academy. Each has just printed it’s best issue yet. Each of these comics reaches a pinnacle of a completely compelling storyline here and delivers and delivers and delivers. These are among the best comics today. Buy. Buy. Buy.

Over the Garden Wall issues 1 and 2 are lovely contributions to the world of the animated show. I rewatched the cartoon after reading them and they fill in the blanks in the series so well that I would strongly suggest anyone who likes the cartoon pick up these comics immediately. They are charming and wistful like the series. They even contain a page of sheet music in the back! Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Heathen from comixology submit: promising fantasy/folklore story from a promising new creative talent Natasha Alterici. Compelling queer female lead. Evocative painted art. You can shiver it it looks so cold. I hope she continues the series! I’ll give it an 8 if she can keep this up! Recommendation: Buy.

Revenger from comixology submit: this is an angry comic. The art evokes Benjamin Marra (his art is also angry). If you are in the mood for angry, revenge violence with a very raw nerve core then give this a go. It’s got that ugly but compelling look to the art. Badass black butch female lead who reminds me of a cross between Grace Jones and The Man with No Name. Feels pretty punk rock. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Buy

Concrete Park Volume 2 this is a radical scifi book with politics on it’s sleeve. Striking character design. Impeccable world building. Check out those maps! The world they invent is completely unique. An urban dystopia in space. Strong critique of the prison-industrial system and sexism. It deserves a full length review. This was the best thing I got at New York Comic Con. I love it so much! And I’ve only read the 2nd volume. Definitely going to buy the first one but I think it speaks to how well written the 2nd volume is that I was able to get totally involved in it without any of the earlier information. Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy

Kenny

Colder: Toss the Bones #2 continues its trend of being creepy as hell. Nimble Jack’s relentless tormenting of Declan plays on the idea of that feeling that someone is watching you. The story toys with that psychological idea to great effect. It is uncomfortable seeing Declan unknowingly having his life manipulated by Jack. Each of Jack’s action are so dark and uncomplicated by morality, that he has become a menacing figure who seems unstoppable at this point. This comic is still proving to be one of the best horror comics out and one that needs your attention. Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is moving in a completely new and exciting direction after the epic conclusion of TMNT #50. Issue #51 sets the stage for a Turtles’ arc as they try and navigate their new position as, well, I won’t spoil it for you. Find out for yourself and see the one of the most interesting premises for a Turtles story I’ve seen in a long time. Overall 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Well, there you have it, folks. The reviews we didn’t quite get a chance to write.

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