This week’s comics was a mix bag, some stood out, but overall it was fairly meh.

Monthly Comic

Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #517 – Black Panther deals with the serial killer and Vlad as the police figure out whether to trust him.  There’s a lot going on here and seeing the former leader of Wakanda deal with being a street hero has been excellent so far.  This issue isn’t quite as solid as other issues, but overall this arc has been fantastic.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Cinderella: Fables are Forever #3 – Cinderella is on the track of Dorothy Gale (is she really a Fable, how does that work?) and we get to see even more of the fabled Shadow Fabletown.  Through Cinderella’s series we get even more the world the Fables inhabit, and it’s all entertaining.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Daken: Dark Wolverine #8 – The art here is what really stands out, there’s some fantastic work, but it’s not completely consistent, which is odd.  But that inconsistent art also fits the story.  The start of the issue begins so good, and then it just trickles off into blah territory.  Parts of the issue rate much higher than the overall package (the first half is much stronger than the second).

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Deadpool #35 – This whole Deadpool in space arc has been horrible.  Thank fucking god it’s over.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.75

The Flash #10 – Is Hot Pursuit who he says he is?  Are the weird deaths connected to the upcoming Flashpoint?  We know the entire DC universe is about to undergo a shift and it’s all starting here.  I’m a huge fan of this series, and I’ve never been a fan of the Flash before.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Iron Man 2.0 #3 – Who is Palmer Addley?  I feel like this issue was the Unusual Suspects with that question.  But most importantly we get to see the real 2.0 version of Iron Man (shouldn’t the version be higher!?), Rhodey gets a new suit.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Journey Into Mystery #622 – Why did Loki sacrifice himself for Asgard?  Find out here as the young Loki gets a lot of depth in a series that seems to devote itself to him.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

The New Avengers #11 – The New Avengers of the present deal with one of their members being shot while the Avengers of the past keep up their attack on the Red Skull.  I’m sure the two story lines will converge, I’m just not sure how yet.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Onslaught Unleashed #3 – Nomad attempts to fight Onslaught while everyone stands around and debates whether Nomad is real and what’s ok to do to her.  Yup, about as exciting as it sounds.

Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7

Secret Warriors #26 – And in one issue, everything you thought you knew was a lie.  Hickman has weaved a story that’s filled with so many layers, you’ll need to re-read it all to catch everything.  This issue’s revelations makes me want to go back to the beginning.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

S.H.I.E.L.D. Infinity – There were too many times I was completely confused and baffled by this series and this issue filled with short stories that shows where volume two will be heading is just as dense and confusing.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.25

Steve Rogers: Super Soldier Annual #1 – I do my best to not pick up annuals and not sure why I didn’t stick to that rule here.  This is the second part to a three part story that finds Cyclops, Hope and Namor in the Negative Zone and Steve Rogers is sent to rescue them.  It’s not a bad story, just not worth shelling out the $12 total for all three parts.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Uncanny X-Force #7 – Well that was a shocking ending.  The whole time traveling Deathlok strain has been interesting but what this part of that chapter sets up is pretty crazy.  Easily one of the best “X” series out there.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25

Uncanny X-Men #535 – I wasn’t the biggest fan of the Breakworld story line, so going back there doesn’t really interest me.  The story is ok, but that’s just it, ok.  Nothing special.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

The Unwritten #24 – In a story about false prophets I only have to say wtf.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

X-Men: Legacy #247 – It was predictable as to who was behind the Age of X, but the story is still entertaining.  Xavier wakes up and explains it all to everyone.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

It was a light, but good week with a lot of books that earned some top grades.   There’s a lot worth your hard earned dollars, find out which below.

Monthly Comics

Annihilators #2 – Two stories in one solid issue.  The Annihilators need to figure out what’s going on and prevent the Dire Wraiths from gaining strength while Rocket Raccoon is out to free Groot and figure out who’s trying to kill him.  Both stories are full of action and are just beyond fantastic.  As usual, the cosmic end of the Marvel universe doesn’t dissapoint.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Avengers: The Children’s Crusade #5 – It seems like forever since the fourth issue was released and the one-shot last month didn’t quite live up to the quality I look for.  But this fifth issue is solid.  What happens with a Scarlet Witch who can’t remember who she is, and what happens when she does?  This series potentially has huge impact for the Marvel universe and it’s anyone’s guess what that impact will be.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75

Brightest Day #23 – So what the hell happens to this series after it wraps?  Will we see characters back in their traditional way or are they now the 4 Elements.  We also find out who Earth’s protector is after months of speculation and guessing.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Bring the Thunder #4 – I can’t remember reading the third issue of this series, which makes going into reading this fourth issue a bit odd.  The story is a big fight sequence and it’s all set up for the series.  Entertaining, and different, but not quite as exciting as that first issue.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Chew #18 – I really wonder the amount of drugs that had to be ingested to write this issue.  It’s all over the place, random, hilarious and got me laughing out loud, a lot.  This series continues its excellence and showing why it should be on everyone’s pull list.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Fear Itself #1 – The prelude to this series didn’t blow me away in any way, but I have to say, this first issue is solid.  But, that’s been the first issue for most of Marvel’s recent events.  They’ve been solid and then let us down.  There’s a lot here and it sets the tone perfectly, so for that it gets solid marks.  There’s also a mystery here that’s delved into a bit that definitely has me wanting more.  It’s a great first start, now here’s hoping the rest can hold up in quality.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Fear Itself: Homefront #1 – Four short stories that show off why Marvel is my favorite company.  Their stories are rooted in the real world that make them all the more relatable and there’s an emotional depth to them that’s often missing.  Much like the main series, this is a solid first issue that gives you a great feel of what to expect.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Hellraiser #1 – I’ve seen only bits and pieces of the movies, so long ago and don’t really know the background at all, and for that I feel like I’m missing a bit in this first issue.  The gore that I remember is there, but also a sadness to Pinhead I don’t.  The series has me intrigued, if not totally sold.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Heroes for Hire #5 – And that’s the end of the first story arc.  The action was a bit “B” movie and the art seems to have taken a dip, but overall the series is really entertaining and fun, just like a comic book should be.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

Irredeemable #24 – Tony has found a friend to help with get out of prison, while two unlikely individuals work together to find Tony.  There’s some interesting plot developments here and I have no idea what Mark Waid has in store as this series moves along.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.5

Nonplayer #1 – People are raving about this first issue and I can see why folks enjoy it, but can’t say I’m completely blown away.  Nate Simpson’s series is impressive and original with an interesting mix of sci-fi and fantasy as well as a creative look at very real technology, enhanced reality.  So far, worth checking out, but I’m not sold for the long haul.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Raise the Dead 2 #4 – This zombie series is a bit more interesting as the focus has moved to two surviving children and the messed up things the military would do to rebuild a country.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Secret Six #32 – The team continues the battle in Hell and just like the Marvel books that are exploring this, it just isn’t working.  There’s a bit of magic that seems to have gone missing.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Ultimate Captain America #4 – What started off as a simple talk about American politics has evolved in a great question of good and evil and who is on the side of the righteous.  What seems like a simple ending of an issue that involves mostly a fight, a simple question is asked and one that really gets you to think.  This is up there for limited series of the year.

Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10

Uncanny X-Men #534.1 – This “point one” book gives you a good taste as to what the X-Men are about, but it also delves deeper as the more successful one of these books have done.  It’s focus is on Magneto and the disdain and distrust of him.  There’s a lot of philosophy thrown about with discussion of P.R. versus propaganda as well as Machiavelli.  Overall, I wish the series had more of these discussions.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

It was a pretty decent set of books this week with a few issues that made my jaw drop.  Check out what’s worth your money and what you should avoid if at all possible.

Monthly Comics

Age of X Universe #1 – The main Age of X storyline running through other “X” titles has been pretty solid, this off-shoot looking at some of the Avengers and Spider-Man though is a bit off.  The Avengers storyline suffers from inconsistent art and the story is ok, but nothing amazing.  The Spider-Man story is beyond solid though.  The art is decent, but the story really sticks out.  This first issues is a bit uneven in execution, but definitely has highlights.

Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

American Vampire #13 – Just when you think this series can’t get any better, Scott Snyder and Rafael Albuquerque blow me away.  This issue flashes a bit forward to World War II and to say more would spoil the goodness.  The pacing, plot, characterization is amazing.  So far, this might be one of the best single issues of any comic this year.  Just amazing.

Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10

The Avengers #11 – The combined Avengers teams are fighting Parker Robbins to get back the Infinity Gems as the Watcher narrates and watches on.  The story has a pretty epic feel to it, but it’s the narrative of this issue that really stands out.  I liked the perspective of the writing in an entertaining issue.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #516 – There’s lots of moving parts in this issue, but it’s main theme is abuse, whether it’s parents on their children, one class on another or every day violence.  It’s a solid issues continuing the quality of a series that’s one of the best things to come out of Shadowland.  It looks like big things are coming down the pipeline for the Black Panther, and I imagine this series will be playing a big part in it.

Story: 8.5 Art: .8 Overall: 8.5

Captain America #616 – The official 70th Anniversary over sized issue reminds us what makes Captain America great and why in dark times we should be happy that we still have Cap around.  The stories are varied but overall the issue is fantastic and well worth the read.  I couldn’t help but feel a swell of patriotism after reading it.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

5 Ronin #5 – The five issue limited series is over.  The story is ok, and there’s bits that are great, but overall the series was ho-hum.  Maybe as a trade paperback it’d be better, but I can’t say it’s worth the purchase.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #8 – It’s Jordan versus Gardner as Kronas’s control over the Corps. grows deeper.  But how do these two save the Green Lantern Corps. when they can’t use their rings?  The third chapter of the War of the Lanterns is ok, but there’s something that’s lacking that was in the first two chapters.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Incognito: Bad Influences #5 – The second volume of Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips’s pulp action series wraps up and even kept me on my toes.  I can’t wait to see what the third volume holds after the ending of this one.  Such a solid series that shows off how this is one of the best teams out there when it comes to comic book.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Incorruptible #16 – Max Damage’s meeting with the Paradigm wraps up as some fighting happens and some interesting plots move forward.  The series continues to move along as we see what happens when a villain tries to go straight.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Kick-Ass 2 #2 – It feels like forever since the first issue of the second volume of the hit series made it to the stands.  But, this second issue picks up not asking what would a real life super hero be like, but instead what would a super hero team be like.  It’s easy to see where the series is going to go, but it’s over the top violence and great sense of humor make it easy and fun to follow along.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Punisher: In The Blood #5 – It’s the Punisher versus Jigsaw and with a new series coming up, we get to see the beginning of what to expect.  It’s a decent fight and overall it’s great to see the old Punisher back in business.  Overall, it’s a good, but not great series.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Scarlet #5 – It’s the end of the first volume as what started off as a simple comic about the individual uprising against a corrupt society has turned into a very real reflection of world events.  Bendis has even decided to reflect upon events in Egypt, Wisconin and Libya and how the series reflects them.  This, by random chance has turned into a very important series.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Secret Avengers #11 – Who’s John Steele and how did he become corrupted?  This begins that tale and it’s pretty decent so far.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

Thor #621 – The whole World Tree part of the Thor mythology is so convoluted and if you’re not a die-hard fan, you can easily get lost in it all.  I can’t say I know exactly what’s going on, and the story isn’t quite as clear as it should have been.  Really, it all feels like the point is to get a good start to the lead up and buzz generated by this summer’s movie.

Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7.25

The Walking Dead #83 – Holy shit.  My jaw was dropped the entire time reading this and I have tear in my eyes.  Kirkman, you’re one sick and twisted bastard, and I love ya for it.

Story: 10 Art: 9 Overall: 10

Wolverine #7 – Wolverine continues to battle for his soul in a story that just seem like it won’t end.  I’m not a fan of the storyline at all, and can’t wait until we can move on from it.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

X-23 #8 – What would happen when Laura and Daken met?  You get to find out here as X-23 and Gambit head to Madripoor in hopes of shutting down a new Weapon X program and Daken is part of their plan.  The issue is ok, nothing amazing, but overall this’ll be measured at the end of the crossover.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

It’s a thick stack of books this week as it begins the start of some events, the debut of a new series and reemergence of an awol one.  What was worth the read?  Which should you not bother getting?  Find out below.

Monthly Comics

Astonishing Spider-Man & Wolverine #5 – So funny and entertaining, it’s too bad it seems like quite a while since the previous issue was released.  This comic has a fun story, some great humor, fantastic art, overall it was just beyond a fun read.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Captain America #615.1 – The point one issues are supposed to introduce new readers to the series and show off the quality of them.  This issue achieves that and then some, foreshadowing what we can expect in the months to come.

Story: 9.5 Art: 9 Overall: 9.25

Daken: Dark Wolverine #7 – Daken tightens his grip on Madripoor as we see how much of a manipulative person he is.  The character gets ragged on a lot by overall, I think this series shows how much potential he has and how much fun this series can be.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

Daredevil: Reborn #3 – The first issue of this limited series was solid and second issue stumbled a bit.  This third issue is an improvement and as a whole I think this four issue limited series will be solid.  But, as individual issues it’s a little off.  I think this’ll be an arc that’s whole is greater than it’s individual parts.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Deadpool #34 – Deadpool versus a living planet.  The jump has completely made it over the shark.  There’s some funny moments though.

Story: 6 Art: 8 Overall: 6.5

Fables #103 – The Fables continues to plan on their battle with Mr. Dark as so many machinations continues behind the scenes.  The series is over a hundred issues and just as solid as ever.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

5 Ronin #4 – A solid entry in this five issues limited series, but overall it doesn’t blow me away to make it a must buy.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25

FF #1 – It’s the start of a new direction for Marvel’s first family after the death of a member.  With a new member and the return of Reed’s father, everything is on the table.  Jonathan Hickman has a long term plan, so we’ll see where he takes us from here.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Green Hornet #14 – It’s the end of Phil Hester’s first arc and he’s shown he can masterfully handle the series.  It’s been a fantastic start and can’t wait to see what his second arc holds.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Green Lantern #64 – Since Blackest Night, the line of Green Lantern comics as a whole has been missing a bit of magic, but it looks like gotten it’s groove back.  This is the first part of the War of the Green Lanterns, which looks like it’ll be an epic and classic story.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75

Green Lantern Corps. #58 – Krona has infected the core and Kyle and John decide to duke it out.  Can these two save the Corps.?  It’s the second part of the War of the Green Lanterns, and it’s as solid as the first.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75

Namor: The First Mutant #8 – Namor finally gets out of hell, and it couldn’t have come soon enough.  The story has it’s moments but the art has taken a massive dip and the series doesn’t live up to the quality it should be.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6 Overall: 6.5

New Mutants #23 – The mysteries of the Age of X are starting to become a bit clearer as there’s tons of reveals in this issue.  I’m still not quite 100% sure of what’s going on, but I have a better idea.  This seems like it’ll go down as a classic “X” event.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75

The New York Five #3 – Brian Wood’s “slice of life” comic book series hit it’s second to last issue of it’s second volume.  The series is a real portrayal of college life and more importantly Wood’s love letter to a city he knows and loves, New York.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Osborn #4 – This series makes me want a straight up political series by Marvel, what’s teased here could be amazing played out in the greater Marvel universe.  A political chess that’s a bit more sinister than real life, but no less complicated.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Power Man and Iron Fist #3 – The world’s greatest gambler?  Seriously?  The series feels like a C-movie, but it’s still somehow fun.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Thor #620.1 – The story is descent and does a good job of giving a new reader a feel as to what Thor is about, but if this issue’s main goal was to bring in new readers, I can’t say it really does it’s job.  An ok read, but not something that’d leave me impressed and coming back for more.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

Uncanny X-Force #6 – Divergent time lines and crazy futures can work and sometimes it gets a bit convoluted.  This is the latter of these stories.  It’s still entertaining, if not a bit jumbled as far as plot.  It is nice to see the earlier Deathlok story from Wolverine’s former series get picked up again.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Uncanny X-Men #534 – The end of the Sublime storyline and Quarantined as well as some resolution to the Shaw situation.  It’s really left open and feels a bit like a cop-out with little definitive resolution.  Overall, not the best of X-Men story arcs.

Story: 7.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

X-Men #9 – The mystery man behind The Lizard is revealed as the X-Men continue to search in the tunnels of New York City.  The story is ok, but not amazing.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

It wasn’t a huge release week as far as books, but we get the first glimpse of Marvel’s Fear Itself.  Is it any good?  What else should you grab while you’re out?  Find out below!

Monthly Comics

Avengers Academy #11 – Korvac has come calling and the youngest Avengers are all that’s there to stop him.  The story is so-so, something seems a bit “throwback” about it, but at the same time, there’s something off.  The art has trailed a bit, the series as a whole is missing the magic of it’s previous incarnations.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Avengers: The Children’s Crusade Young Avengers – It seems like quite a bit since we got the last issue of this limited series and while this one shot adds some depth to that storyline it doesn’t answer why the issue is standing alone by itself.  It could have easily been an issue or part of a few.  Instead, it feels a bit tacked on and a distraction from the mains series’s lateness.

Story: 7.25 Art: 6.5 Overall: 7

Brightest Day #22 – It’s Firestorm versus the Anti-monitor and a whole bunch of Black Lanterns in order to get the white lantern back and save the professor and Ronnie’s father.  We get somewhat of a completion to Firestorm’s journey, but it still feels a bit disjointed.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5

DMZ #63 – Matty finally catches up with Parco Delgado and has one hell of a discussion that sums up the last decade of American politics.  To say this is an emotional issue is an understatement.  If you need a defining moment that shows how this series is one of the best commentaries on the last American decade, this is it.  Beyond amazing.

Story: 10 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9.75

Fear Itself: Book of the Skull – Can’t say I’m completely blown away by this prologue to the next big Marvel event, but it’s an intriguing start.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

5 Ronin #3 – The third issue of this five issue limited series focuses on the Punisher and it’s a decent story.  It takes his usual themes of revenge and purpose and puts them in a nice single issue.  As a whole, I’m too impressed with this limited series and wonder if it’d read better in one sitting as a trade paperback.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75

Generation Hope #5 – Foreshadowing is what you’d call this issue.  There’s a huge rift coming down the pipeline for the X-Men and the question is, which side will Hope align with.  The seeds have been planted here.  If anything the issue seems like a fresh start for a series that’s been a  bit underwhelming.

Story: 7 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.75

The Invincible Iron Man #502 – Tony Stark continues to try to help Doc Ock as Pepper must deal with Electro and Sandman.  The story is focused on regrets and the past as well as life and wanting to live it the best you can.  It’s just a solid story that shows off the strength of the series.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Iron Man 2.0 #2 – I was pretty impressed by the first issue of the series and this second issue is just as solid.  Rhodes continues to track down his mysterious villain and his travels takes him all over.  There’s some pretty solid scenes in this issue that’s showing that War Machine isn’t a second rate character.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Ruse #1 – I don’t get it.  Why was this line resuscitated?  I believe you can call this Sherlock Holmes 2.0, entertaining but doesn’t blow me away.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.25

Thunderbolts #155 – Luke, Strange and Man-Thing go get the newest member of the Thunderbolts team as some interesting things go down at the Raft.  The series continues to be solid with interesting directions that you never quite know what to expect.  It’s still just getting going, and looks like it’ll be heading into some fun directions.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Uncanny X-Force #5.1 – It’s Wolverine’s kill team versus the Reavers.  The Point One series of books acts as an introduction to the character and point of the series.  This issue does just that showing off the conflict with this team’s mission and their conscious and humanity.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

The Unwritten #23 – Few series make me feel real dumb after reading them, this one does just that.  Lots of literary discussion is weaved throughout this dense issue that must be read multiple times to really get it.  It’s unbelievably thick for such a regular issue.  Quite impressive as to what can fit in a single comic book issue.

Story: 9 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.75

X-Factor #217 – Peter David dives into the Muslim/Superhero debate through an unlikely advocate for rights.  An impressive issue that I didn’t see coming.

Story: 9 Art: 8 Overall: 8.75

A very light week for comic books, with lots of second issues a few firsts and the end of the first volume of a series I loved.  What was worth the purchases and which should I have saved the money on?  Find out below!

Monthly Comics

Cinderella: Fables are Forever #2 – There’s so much that can be mined in the Fables world and this series is taking advantage introducing us to the Chinese and Russian Fables communities.  It’s a great twist and adds a lot to the series.  My only issue is the use of Dorothy Gale.  As the series focuses on imaginary beings from story books, shouldn’t she be a real person who fell into the Fable world as the Fables have come into ours?  That bit doesn’t really matter, but nagged at me.  Still, a great second issue and added depth to the Fables world.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

5 Ronin #2 – I wasn’t the biggest of fans of the first issue of this limited series, but the second issue improves as it focuses on the concept of the Hulk.  The issue still doesn’t blow me away, but it’s not too bad a read.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Jennifer Blood #2 – Garth Ennis is a sick, sick puppy.  The house wife meets Dirty Harry series continues as Jennifer Blood continues her war on the underworld and we learn a little more about her connection with her targets.  The big death at the end is pretty damn creative and something that got me to cringe imagining it happening.  Solid series.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

The New Avengers #10 – Two stories make up this issue.  The Avengers of the present and the first Avengers team, in 1959 with a membership that’s a bit unexpected.  Both stories are fun and entertaining.  My only issues is Chaykin’s art which is so recognizable, but many of the male characters look alike.  Still a very good issue.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75

Onslaught Unleashed #2 – The second issue of this four issue series ends with a pretty big reveal that throws into the question the entire existence of a character.  I missed the first go around of Onslaught, but I’m digging this series so far.  I’m more interested in seeing where these characters go afterwards.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Sigil #1 – So, this was my first step into the Crossgen world and as far as first issues go, this one wasn’t too bad.  There’s enough there to get me to check out the second issue, but not enough I want to go back and check out the original Crossgen books.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.25

27 #4 – This final issue of the first volume is where it all comes together.  Where does inspiration and talent comes from?  Is it given to us by a muse?  But, don’t we have to want to create?  Are we given talent?  Or, do we have to practice and teach ourselves it?  That’s the debate of the series and it’s all laid out here in this final issue and it got me thinking about it all for quite some time after.  The series made me think, which is what art is supposed to do.

Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10

Venom #1 – An original take on the Venom character with him now being a black-ops agent for the government.  It sounds a lot worse than it actually is.  The first issue has got me interested to check out the second, but time will tell which way this series goes.  I fear this might just turn into a Punisher/Spider-Man mash-up.

Story: 8 Art: 7 Overall: 7.75

The Walking Dead #82 – Robert Kirkman’s amazing series continues to impress.  The safe world around them is collapsing and Rick and really everyone must make the decision to help each other or help themselves.  An amazing issue that shows how much of a character driven series this is.

Story: 10 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9.5

X-Men: Legacy #246 – Age of X continues with an ending that impresses me and I didn’t see coming.  Legacy/Reaper is on the run as Fortress X scrambles to catch her.  I still don’t quite know what to expect as this mini-event barrels to a conclusion, but I’m hooked.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25

X-23 #7 – The story involves pirates and sharks and yes it generally is as lame as it sounds, but this is an important issue that shows where the series is heading.  It’s point is to add depth to X-23 so she’s not just a killing machine/Wolverine knock-off.  The final few pages are the important part, and will the rest of the issue is forgetable those final pages shine.  The art though stands out with a great anime feel that I gushed over.

Story: 7 Art: 8.75 Overall: 7.5

Another week of comics, and another thick stack of books.  What’s worth picking up for the first week of March?  What should you skip?  What shouldn’t of been printed?  Find out our thoughts below!

Monthly Comics

Annihilators #1 – Here we go again with another fantastic take on the cosmic side of the Marvel universe.  As ususal Abnett and Lanning are in the driver’s seat and I wouldn’t have it any other way.  There’s also a back up story featuring Rocket Raccoon and Groot which is awesome so far and adds some depth to both characters.  Loving this first issue.

Story: 10 Art: 9 Overall: 9.5

Avengers Academy #10 – The kids take some classes and gets all angsty but the elephant in the room that is Speedball and what happened in Stamford is addressed.  The issue is good, but there’s something that’s off that doesn’t make it as impressive as it’s predecessor Avengers: The Initiative.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Brightest Day #21 – The heroes begin to pick up on the fact that the returned heroes are again being taken away from them as the end of Martian Manhunter’s tale is told.  The issue is ok, but the art isn’t consistent throughout especially at the beginning.

Story: 8 Art: 7 Overall: 7.5

Chew #17 – The series continues to be one of the most wacky and crazy ones on the market.  Where else would you find the FDA acting like the FBI by kicking in doors and kicking in heads.  Each issue is filled with action and laughs and shouldn’t be missed.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Daken: Dark Wolverine #8 – The series keeps growing on me, and I’ll keep claiming the character is under rated and under appreciated.  There’s a lot of chess moves to what Daken does and this arc in Madripoor has been top notch so far.  I can’t wait to see what else is in store.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Deadpool #33.1 – I’m completely confused as to the point of the whole Point One series of books.  They’re introductions to the characters but not necessarily an introduction to current story lines.  This one gives us the tone we’d expect in a Deadpool comic, but has no connection to the current arc.  It’s a waste and you might as well have called these annuals.  This issue is decent, but there’s no reason to buy it.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7

5 Ronin #1 – Marvel characters set in a feudal Japan.  The first issue is ok, but didn’t blow me away enough that I’m psyched about picking up the next four issues.  The twist on Wolverine was nice though, and quite unexpected.  Overall though, nothing too impressive.

Story: 7.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Green Lanterns #63 – It’s the lead up to the War of the Green Lanterns with some huge revelations as to what happened with the Manhunters and the beginning of the green power rings.  For as off the last few issues been, this one completely bounces back draped in awesomeness.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Heroes for Hire #4 – The series keeps impressing me and getting better.  Misty knows there’s something wrong in her world and begins to fight the control of the Puppet Master.  It’s a great issue and I think there’s a lot more than we’re lead on (I think she’s still asleep at the end).  It’s a great single issue, but also a fantastic series.

Story: 9.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 9.25

Incognito: Bad Influences #4 – Zack continues his journey into the underworld and struggles with his dual lives.  It’s a fascinating read, a bit reminiscent of Mark Waid’s Incorruptible.  A great read, but that’s what I’d expect with Ed Brubaker.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Irredeemable #23 – The cover rocks and it fits the fantastic interior.  I had my doubts as to where Mark Waid was going with the series, but he’s been hitting it out of the park.  There’s some twists and turns here that are top notch.  This is a fantastic series and I only expect it to keep improving.

Story: 8.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8.5

Joe the Barbarian #8 – It’s been a wicked delay for this issue, and it wasn’t really worth it.  The series had so much potential but at times it fell into Grant Morrisons habit of being indecipherable.  The only reason I’d recommend it is if you’re dying to know how the limited series ends.

Story: 7 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7

Secret Six #31 – The series has bounced back to all of it’s dysfunctional fun.  But, it’s unfortunate the plot is taking them to Hell.  For some reason this is a popular plot lately, occurring in at least two Marvel books and now this one.  Oh well.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Secret Warriors #25 – I kind of feel like this issue’s whole point was to tie this series into Hickman’s other series S.H.I.E.L.D.  It’s an interesting story, but a bit out of the blue.

Story: 8 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.5

Thunderbolts #154 – A self contained issue focusing on Man-Thing.  It’s a pretty solid read that adds a lot to the character and sets his role for the team.  It’s a really good read, and the fact it’s one issue makes it a good pick up for new readers.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

Ultimate Captain America #3 – I thought the firs two issues of this series was solid but this third one blows them away in every way.  It’s damn near perfect with amazing art and writing that’s unbelievable.  I haven’t been a fan of the “Ultimate” line, but this series is a must read.

Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10

X-Factor #216 – The Mayor of New York shows up on the doorstep of X-Factor, but is it a good thing when J. Jonah Jameson needs something from you?  The series seems to be getting back in the right direction.  We’ll see how this story arc goes.

Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

Graphic Novel/Trade Paperback

Takio – Brian Michael Bendis’s all ages original graphic novel from Marvel and Icon.  The story is an all ages book focused on two super powered sisters.  We’ll have an expanded review this week.

It’s a thick stack of books for this week.  There’s some debuts as well as some solid ongoing series.  What’s worth your dime?  What should you skip?  Find out below!

Monthly Comics

American Vampire #12 – For twelve issues Skinner Sweet has played a bit of a background role even though he was one of the catalysts for the first story arc.  This issue focuses solely on him and what a man out of time he is.  Depth is given to a background character who deserves the spotlight and it’s hard to end this issue without feeling some empathy for this cold blooded killer.  An amazing stand alone issue.

Story: 10 Art: 9 Overall: 9.5

Astonishing X-Men #36 – The series that’s been all over the map when it comes to quality finally starts to take place in “X” continuity. But is this a good start?  Some of the team heads to Japan when family duty calls, and then Japan gets attacked by giant monsters.  Didn’t we already see this in Thunderbolts?  What’s with Marvel’s new found interest in giant monsters attacking Japan?  The story didn’t work there, and so far this issue was nothing impressive.  A step up from the non-sense that had lately taken over the book, but not quite the exciting story I was hoping for.

Story: 7 Art:8 Overall: 7.25

Avengers #10 – The cat’s out of the bag and teams are sent to retrieve the remaining Infinity Gems.  We get an idea where a few have been taken as lots of tension is built up to where The Hood will turn up next and who will have to face him.  It’s an interesting issue with the usual great dialogue, but the story ads details as to what was done with the gems, and little more.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Captain America #615 – The trial of Captain America wraps up rather quickly as well does Sin’s plot.  But, what’s to remember about this series is it’s usually not the single issue, but the bigger picture to pay attention to.  We know Sin plays a role in this summer’s Fear Itself, so we have to assume what we see here is just the tip to the larger iceberg.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Deadpool #33 – There were a lot of takes on Deadpool in various series that feature him right now.  This used to be the best, with a great mix of action and humor.  But this issue falls more into the humor area as Deadpool heads to space.  It could be an ok story, but slapstick isn’t what I want with the character.  Right now, his best depiction is in Uncanny X-Force, and that series is showing off what can really be done with the character and when it’s done well, he can be pretty amazing and entertaining.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

Fantastic Four #588 – The end of the series, before it’s relaunch, deals with the “death” of Johnny Storm and how everyone deals with it.  It’s a mostly silent issue allowing the art to tell the story and it does it pretty well.  The silence is finally broken in the final panel of the first story.  We are given a hint as to what to expect in the first issue of FF #1.  The various stories are good, but overall, I’m pretty cynical about the whole “death” aspect.  Johnny Storm will be found alive and captured in the Negative Zone, you can bet money on it.  But, Hickman seems to have a big picture to tell, and I’m interested in seeing where he goes from here.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Incorruptible #15 – Fifteen issues and Max finally has to make his decision of whether to be a hero or remain an outlaw.  Also, how will Headcase fit into it all, and when push comes to shove, will Max do the right things?  This series has all about finding redemption during tough times and over the past year, it’s been a slow build and shift to what we read now.  It’s been an impressive journey and I’m looking forward to the year to come.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7 Overall: 7.5

The Invincible Iron Man #501 – When Tony Stark met Dr. Octavius.  The Spider-Man rogues set their sights on Tony Stark as Dr. Octopus needs Stark’s help.  It’s an interesting story showing off the brazen cockiness that is Tony Stark.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Iron Man 2.0 #1 – A War Machine series donning a more successful series name.  We’ll see if this latest spin has more success than the previous volumes.  Rhodes is back working for the government and must take on a DARPA scientist.  The first issue is interesting and hopefully the title change will bring the series a wider audience than it’s had before.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7 Overall: 7.5

Namor: The First Mutant #7 – Namor is in hell and needs the help of Doom and some others to escape.  This series had such potential, but hasn’t quite lived up to it.  I’m giving it one more arc before I drop it.  Hopefully we see some improvement, but right now it’s pretty blah.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.75

New Mutants #22 – It’s the second chapter of Age of X and the mystery behind this new world is being peeled back a little.  It’s an interesting story line and I honestly have no idea what to expect from here on out.  We’ll see how it goes, and I’m definitely looking forward to see it all the way through.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

The New York Five #2 – Brian Wood continues his brilliant love story to New York City as he examines the continuing lives of four NYU students.  The series is another fine example that comic books is not all about capes and tights and that there’s just some fantastic stories to be told that look at nothing but relationships.  Two issues in and we’re looking at a contender for mini series of the year.

Story: 9.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Power Man and Iron Fist #2 – The second issue of this five issue limited series brings out the “B” and “C” level characters, most of which I’ve never heard of.  There’s a nice throwback feel to the series, though not skirting the blaxploitation of the previous Power Man series.  It’s entertaining and fun, but nothing amazing.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Punisher: In the Blood #4 – It’s the second last issue as Jigsaw’s plan is revealed a bit more.  It’s a return to the classic Punisher and I know I keep saying it, but it’s so nice to have him back in his sociopath form.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Secret Avengers #10 – The end of the second arc.  A lot of fighting, bad guys are beaten, while others get away.  Overall it’s a decent issue and nice wrap up, but nothing that blows me away.  What will be interesting is to see where they go with John Steele, which seems to be the focus on the next arc of the series.

Story: 7.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Thor #620 – And this is where Matt Fraction loses me.  What the hell is going on?!  There’s a fight, blood coming down and a whole lot of words being spoken that are English, but make no sense.  Thor as a series and character can have a habit of being hard to understand like a Shakespeare play due to it’s language and this issue at times falls into that.  This is for the die hard Thor fans only.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7

Turf #4 – The series had such potential mashing up gangsters, aliens and vampires.  But, long breaks between issues made me forget what’s happened before and this issue is convoluted and just confusing.  There’s too much going on and rambling and talk that just made my eyes roll.  As a whole, the series might read better as a trade, but as individual issues, what a let down.

Story: 6 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.25

Uncanny X-Men #533 – Emma and friends fight Shaw while Angel’s team takes on Sublime.  The stories are ok and feel like classic X-Men tales, but there’s some big picture epic story telling that’s missing in these arcs.  Overall, entertaining, but a bit of the magic is missing.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

X-Men #8 – Kids are going missing in New York City and the X-Men and Spider-Man are trying to figure out why.  It looks like Curt Connors is behind it, which leads to another book that Spidey’s rogues are cropping up in.  The story is entertaining and solid enough.  We’ll see where it goes.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

X-Men: Legacy #245 – The first (second if you count the prelude) to the Age of X event running through various “X” books looks at another possible X-Men time line.  Why this world exists and where it diverged from is the big mystery, but so far so good.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

X-Men: To Serve and Protect #4 – Four stories of “X” characters interacting with others in the Marvel Universe.  All the stories are entertaining and a few put a smile on my face and made me laugh, but this isn’t vital must read stuff.  For the die hard fans only.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

X-23 #6 – The Sinister storyline wraps up and sets up a hell of a lot for down the line.  There was something entertaining about this series and it’s slowly justifying it’s existence.  There’s a lot of potential like Daken’s other spin-off.  We’ll see where both go, but it’s looking pretty good.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

It’s a rather thick week of books with some pretty high profile books being released.  It still feels like the quiet before the storm that is major events and movie tie-ins.  What’s worth the purchase and what should you skip?  Find out below!

Monthly Comics

Astonishing X-Men: Xenogenesis #5 – The five issue limited series wraps up it’s run.  It’s interesting in that it’s role was to provide a way for new readers to check out the X-Men without being bogged down with continuity.  Instead of having an inviting series, we get a rather un-PC, S&M, Dom/Sub laced series with art that’s not exactly inviting to mass audiences.  The story was interesting but overall, there was something that was just off.  This issue had quite a few art problems, with mechanical arms that jumped from side to side being a prime example.  This might be worth a read in trade form, if you can get it cheap.

Story: 7.5 Art: 6 Overall: 6.5

Avengers Academy #9 – The fallout continues over the student’s decision to give payback to The Hood for what he did to Tigra.  A lot of debating happens, a lot of arguments and we’re reminded many of the current Avengers used to be criminals.  The issue’s ok, but nothing amazing.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

Brightest Day #20 – It’s Aquaman and his crew versus a bunch of folks from the Bermuda Triangle.  There’s lots of fighting, some cool moments, but overall somewhat quickly and conveniently wrapped up.  The art also seems to have taken a dip with this issue.  I’m sure it’s important to the overall story, but I give it a big meh.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.25

Daredevil: Reborn #2 – The first issue had such a great tone to it and tons of potential of a fallen hero looking for redemption.  The series though takes a turn in the second issue to become a comic book version of the movie Walking Tall. A really well trained individual takes on the small town drugs and gun dealers.  Interesting, but nothing new.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

DMZ #62 – With the US army about to take Manhattan and full on press against the Free States to kick up the series shifts its focus back on Matty Roth as he covers the US invasion.  Brian Woods continues to impress with a comic book series that has some of the best political commentary as well as an amazing reflection on world affairs and current state of war.  This will be a series that will be examined for years to come.  A gritty reflection and commentary on modern times.

Story: 10 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9.5

Fables #102 – When fighting an evil that seems to be unbeatable only a team of super heroes can save the day.  While this series has focused on the great characters of children’s stories and even the concept of genres, you can now add comic books to the types of characters and stories that are game for material.  It’s so meta, my head wants to explode.  I love it/

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall:9

Generation Hope #4 – It’s the post fight debrief and we get the official diagnosis of everyone’s mutant power.  The issue is ok, and not quite as sub-par as the previous three, but this series still pales in comparison to the previous incarnations of this type of “X” book.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Green Lantern #62 – The last few issues have been ho-hum, but in this issue which is the lead up to the War of the Green Lanterns kicks it all into overdrive and gets the series back to the awesomeness that it was pre-Blackest Night.  I can’t wait to see what’s coming up now.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

Green Lantern Corps. #57 – The battle on Qward comes to an end in a way I didn’t see coming.  So, that’s a good thing, right?  The guest appearance by Firestorm isn’t needed and wastes space, unless that’s the plan.  Overall, this arc was weaker than previous stories, but the ending wound up stranger than the lead up.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Hawkeye: Blindspot #1 – I thought Widowmaker wasn’t the finest hour for Hawkeye or writer Jim McCann, but somehow this series continues the downward trajectory of his once fantastic run with this character and those surrounding him.  This series is focused on Hawkeye’s issue with his aim, and for a person that relies on that so much there’s tons of potential, but this issue falters, with so-so story telling and even more disappointing art.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Jennifer Blood #1 – Garth Ennis’s latest series could be called Mrs. Smith.  A suburban house wife is also a bad-ass hit woman who seems to be out to take out her sketchy uncles.  The comic so far is very “girl power” at times, and at others the usual stereotypical t&a.  But in the end, very entertaining.  I loved the “voice” of the book and the mix of action and mundane was great.  The series has a a lot of potential and I’m definitely sticking around for issue two.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

Memoir #2 – WTF!?  This is a horror comic wrapped up in a mystery that has me scratching my head as to what’s going on.  The second issue is creepier than the first with a bit hinted as to what’s really going on.  It’s filled with small details to pay attention to, but overall, weird, and I like it.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

S.H.I.E.L.D. #6 – Instead of a straightforward coherent comic book, we’re given some grand ideas a philosophical debate of man’s destiny.  Much like a high concept series like Earth X, the story isn’t what the focus is, the ideas behind them and the words spoken are what to pay attention to.  It all comes together in this final issue of the first volume, and what comes ahead should be really interesting.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Thunderbolts #153 – Hyperion keeps up his assault on the team while they come together to defeat him and the giant monsters.  I liked the idea of the team coming together like this, I can’t say I dug the giant monster aspect of it all.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Uncanny X-Force #5 – there’s so much I liked of this issue and some other bits, not so much.  Fantomex must deal with his past in some great scenes that set up the next arc.  But not being familiar with his background or what he was mumbling about, I was a bit loss.  There wasn’t enough done to explain what the hell was going on for a new reader, and no references of where to go to learn.  However, the other half of the book which deals with the repercussions of the first story arc are fantastic.  It adds so much depth to Deadpool that doesn’t quite jive with his other series, but so far is my favorite.  It sets the tone of the series and whats to come in this years realignment of the “X” books.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Wolverine #6 – I was hoping that this was the end of the Wolverine fighting for his soul storyline.  Instead it continues, but as he fights he’s surrounded by the X-Men who are there to contain him.  We really don’t need another story that shows Wolverine isn’t invincible and that he’s a loose cannon that can go berserker at any moment.  Yawn.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.75

Graphic Novel/Trade Paperback

Noche Roja – The latest in the Vertigo Crime line of graphic novels.  Written by Simon Oliver with art by Jason Latour this one focuses on “corruption, money, sex, politics and crime” in the grand noir tradition.  But as usual with all of the rest of this line’s graphic novels, you never know what to expect.  An expanded review will occur later this week.

It’s a big stack of books this week, and we went through them so you know what’s worth your hard earned money.  What should you pick up?  What should you skip?  Find out below!

Monthly Comics

Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #515 – Black Panther has taken over for Daredevil and the series has taken off.  Watching this warrior back to zero and having to rely on his skills is fantastic.  A solid series that I hope remains well after Daredevil’s return.

Story: 8.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 8.25

Cinderella: Fables are Forever #1 – Cinderella isn’t the only fable super spy out there.  But who is the “Silverslipper?”  This kicks of the second mini-series which introduces us to the fables of Russia.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

The Flash #9 – After the disaster that was Final Crisis, I have to admit I’m a bit skeptical about another DC “event.”  But this is the lead up the Flashpoint which seems to take a que from Marvel and is spinning out another DC timeline and alternate world.  So far, so good, cause this issue was fun, entertaining and a great read.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Green Hornet #13 – Another issue that outclasses the movie in every way.  The Green Hornet and the new Kato must deal with issues at home while Kato attempts to settle old scores.  Just a fantastic second arc from Phil Hester that continues the brilliance that started with Kevin Smith’s launch of the series.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #7 – While the story is interesting this is the weakest of the Green Lantern series of books.  It’s plot just barely makes it worth it’s own series and I’d argue it could have still fit into one or both of the other books on the market.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Heroes for Hire #3 – Such a solid series to come out of such a crappy one.  The mystery continues as a new mission is laid out and heroes are asked if they’re for hire.  The art is a bit off, but the story more than makes up for it.

Story: 8.5 Art: 7 Overall: 8

Incognito: Bad Influences #3 – Brubaker and Phillips’s super hero pulp series continues as Zack continues his mission and we get a bit more of a hint about the person out to get him.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75

The New Avengers #9 – The dialogue and banter is great as always but something was slightly off with this issue.  The modern story is book ended with a focus on Nick Fury and some actions of his from the past.  What that has to do with the present, I have no idea.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Onslaught Unleashed #1 – I missed the first and subsequent go around of Onslaught on the Marvel universe.  I know the story for the most part, but had no idea how he’d return and where this limited series was going.  I can’t say I know any more.  But, for the first issue I’m sucked in, by what’s a fun start.  There’s only four issues here, but I’m looking forward to them.  Of particular note is the art, which is very unique and a cool style I dig a lot.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

Osborn #3 – What does it take to be a leader?  We get the lessons in this third issue of a five issue limited series.  All hell has broken loose in the prison that houses Norman Osborn as games are played by Senators involved.  All the while a reporter is getting closer to what’s going on.  This has been a fantastic series and I’d love to see an ongoing spin out of this.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Power Man and Iron Fist #1 – I was a bit hesitant when I saw this listed as an upcoming release.  The limited series featuring Power Man was one of the strongest to be involved with Shadowland, but at the same time, I didn’t quite think he was enough of a break out to deserve another outing (among some issues with the latter issues).  But this first issue that sees him team up with Iron Fist is a solid start with the focus on some “C” level characters and great interaction between the two heroes.

Story: 8 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75

Raise the Dead 2 #3 – This “other” zombie comic book doesn’t quite get the coverage that it’s higher profile cousin over at Image does, but the quality of the series shows it deserves to.  This second volume of the series keeps the cast of characters small with a focus on a group of three including a woman, and young boy with his sister with flashbacks as to what’s happened to them and the trauma they’ve endured.  The second focus of the story is on the military’s reaction to the situation which I don’t quite follow everything that’s going on, but get the majority of it.  Hopefully my reading of the first volume will put all of the pieces together.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Secret Warriors #24 – There’s only a few more issues to go of this series and this issue shows why it should be kept going.  I finished reading it with chills going up and down my spine and fighting back a little tear.  The issue is just beyond solid with an emotional punch you don’t expect.  Meet the team lead by Nick Fury’s son Mikel and their mission.  Hickman has put together a classic that’s gotten better the longer it’s gone.  It’ll be sad to see this series end, but here’s hoping he has a longer game plan for what’s been a truly epic tale.

Story: 10 Art: 9 Overall: 9.75

27 #3 – Charles Soule’s rock and roll series has been unique, weird and entertaining.  We finally get the big picture in this third issue and things definitely come together.  The art is fantastic and there’s just something about the series I love.  There’s only one more issue to go and with that we say rock and roll!

Story: 9.5 Art: 9.5 Overall: 9.5

Ultimate Captain America #2 – I’ve  never been the biggest fan of Marvel’s line of Ultimate comics but this series which introduces us to the Captain America of Vietnam is fantastic.  Peppered with interesting discussions as to what it means to be an American and patriot along with a solid story, great art and fantastic plotting and writing, this is one “Ultimate” comic that lives up to its name.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

The Unwritten #22 – As usual, I don’t seem to get everything in an issue, but we learn more about Tommy’s power and more importantly about the door knob and what it allows him to do.  This series is for those who love literature, which if you do, I’m sure this comic is on a whole other level for you.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

The Walking Dead #81 – If there’s one lesson to The Walking Dead, it’s to never get too comfortable.  Just when you thinks are going well, writer Robert Kirkman pulls the rug out from under you.  Rick and the rest of the survivors thought they found a safe haven, but are no surrounded by zombies.  It’s now an issue of getting out, but of course when their protection begins to fail, everyone must rally to survive and what about their stranded member?  This series has been fantastic throughout its run and this issue just shows off its excellence and why it’s one of the best out there.

Story: 9.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Widowmaker #4 – Compared to the two series this limited series spun out of, it was a bit of a disappointment.  The story was a bit sloppy at times and needlessly complicated.  It included a plot so over the top it took you out of it all, and plot points that made no sense or were dropped.  Overall, a horrible limited series and one that makes the case for no more.

Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6.25

Wolverine #5.1 – The point one comics are supposed to be jumping on points for new readers and in the case of Iron Man it explained his history quite well.  While this issue was entertaining, I just don’t see it hooking me like Iron Man did.  Instead we’re given a surprise birthday party for Wolverine and cannibal bad guys.  The bad guys didn’t make me want to return, while the birthday party was pretty funny.  Even with the entertaining issue, if it’s goal was to hook new readers I can’t help but feel it failed in its goal.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

X-Factor #215 – A cute stand alone issue that focuses on Jamie and Layla’s rather odd relationship.  We get a better idea of what Layla is up to and why she acts the way she does.  The dealings between them are quite good and the focus on them top notch.  The story that wraps around it all is rather ho-hum.  The entire issue might have been better off having them chatting in a diner instead.

Story: 8 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75