DC Comics has released their solicitations for April 2013!
BATMAN Group Solicits
BATMAN, INCORPORATED #10
Written by GRANT MORRISON
Art and fold-out cover by CHRIS BURNHAM
Variant cover by JASON MASTERS
1:100 B&W Variant cover by CHRIS BURNHAM
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $3.99 US
When only one can survive, which will it be: the man or the bat?
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
BATMAN AND ROBIN #19
Written by PETER J. TOMASI
Art and fold-out cover by PATRICK GLEASON and MICK GRAY
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
On the darkest of nights, who is the one person Batman meets that could change his life forever?
BATMAN #19
Written by SCOTT SNYDER
Backup story written by SCOTT SNYDER and JAMES TYNION IV
Art and fold-out cover by GREG CAPULLO
Backup story art by ALEX MALEEV
MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
1:100 B&W Variant cover by ALEX MALEEV
On sale APRIL 10 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $4.99 US
Who would cause Bruce Wayne to use a gun?
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
TALON #7
Written by SCOTT SNYDER and JAMES TYNION IV
Art and fold-out cover by GUILLEM MARCH
1:25 B&W Variant cover by GUILLEM MARCH
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
If the Court of Owls isn’t responsible for killing Talon, then who is?
BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT #19
Written by GREGG HURWITZ
Art and fold-out cover by ETHAN VAN SCIVER
1:25 B&W Variant cover by ETHAN VAN SCIVER
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Where is Batman while Gotham City is being destroyed?
DETECTIVE COMICS #19
Written by JOHN LAYMAN
Art and fold-out cover by JASON FABOK
Backup story art by ANDY CLARKE
1:25 MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
On sale APRIL 3 • 80 pg, FC, $7.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $8.99 US
In a special oversized celebratory issue, Batman is challenged by the “Mystery of the 900!”
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
BATGIRL #19
Written by GAIL SIMONE
Art by DANIEL SAMPERE and VICENTE CIFUENTES
Fold-out cover by EDDY BARROWS and EBER FERREIRA
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Will a battle of sibling rivalry lead to a death in the family?
BATWOMAN #19
Written by J.H. WILLIAMS III and W. HADEN BLACKMAN
Art and fold-out cover by TREVOR McCARTHY
1:25 MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
What is the shocking family revelation that can turn Batwoman’s world upside down?
CATWOMAN #19
Written by ANN NOCENTI
Art and fold-out cover by RAFA SANDOVAL and JORDI TARRAGONA
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
Catwoman needs help—but what is the only place the Justice League of America can take her?
BIRDS OF PREY #19
Written by CHRISTY MARX
Art by ROMANO MOLENAAR and VICENTE CIFUENTES
Fold-out cover by ARDIAN SYAF and VICENTE SIFUENTES
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
There is a traitor on the team—so who is the member that threatens to tear the Birds of Prey apart?
BATWING #19
Written by FABIAN NICIEZA
Art and fold-out cover by FABRIZIO FIORENTINO
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Batwing quits—and what new member of the Batman family is ready to take his place?
NIGHTWING #19
Written by KYLE HIGGINS
Art and fold-out cover by BRETT BOOTH and NORM RAPMUND
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
“Death of the Family” is over, but the laughs continue to plague Nightwing. But it can’t be him—can it?
RED HOOD AND THE OUTLAWS #19
Written by JAMES TYNION IV
Art and fold-out cover by MICO SUAYAN
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
What horrors lie beneath the mask of the Red Hood?
Click here to see a gallery of covers for the above titles.
BEYOND DC COMICS-THE NEW 52 Solicitcs
AME-COMI GIRLS #2
Written by JUSTIN GRAY and JIMMY PALMIOTTI
Art and cover by EDUARDO FRANCISCO
On sale APRIL 3 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
All-new digital adventures in print for the first time!
The battle continues as Power Girl fights Brainiac at the Earth’s core for the planet’s survival.
On Brainiac’s ship, an unlikely team of heroines and villains come together to do their part.
Will Batgirl and Robin help save the world, only to be grounded by their parents?
ARROW #6
Written by MARC GUGGENHEIM and ANDREW KREISBERG
Art by MIKE GRELL, XERMANICO, SERGIO SANDOVAL and POL GAS
Cover by DAN PANOSIAN
On sale APRIL 24 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
All-new digital adventures in print for the first time, inspired by the hit TV series!
In an attempt to take down a Venezuelan drug cartel, Oliver gives one of its members a chance at redemption!
While attending a football game, Oliver encounters a deranged madman threatening to destroy the entire stadium! Can the Arrow take him down without revealing his identity?
A case from Detective Lance’s past leads him down a dangerous road for the first time…
BATMAN BEYOND UNLIMITED #15
Written by ADAM BEECHEN, J.T. KRUL and DEREK FRIDOLFS
Art by NORM BREYFOGLE, HOWARD PORTER, LIVESAY and BEN CALDWELL
Cover by HOWARD PORTER and LIVESAY
On sale APRIL 17 • 48 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
All-new digital adventures in print for the first time!
Superman’s resolve is tested as the Trillian civil war reaches its climax!
The Justice League attempts to uncover the truth about the mysterious “Brain Trust!”
After the shocking revelations in the last issue, a brand-new threat emerges for Batman!
BATMAN: ARKHAM UNHINGED #13
Written by DEREK FRIDOLFS
Art and cover by ERIC NGUYEN
On sale APRIL 10 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
All-new digital adventures in print for the first time!
All-new tales based on the hit videogame Batman: Arkham City!
See Black Mask captured behind the walls of Arkham City…with some of his least favorite fellow convicts!
In the epic gang war between The Joker and The Penguin, which side will Black Mask choose?
LEGENDS OF THE DARK KNIGHT #7
Written by JOE HARRIS
Art and cover by JASON MASTERS
On sale APRIL 3 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
All-new digital adventures in print for the first time!
In “Haunted Arkham,” something has been stirring up the inmates at Arkham, especially Maxie Zeus!
Something wicked this way comes, and it’s trying to communicate with The Dark Knight.
SMALLVILLE SEASON 11 #12
Written by BRYAN Q. MILLER
Art by JORGE JIMENEZ
Cover by SCOTT KOLINS
On sale APRIL 3 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
All-new digital adventures in print for the first time!
The shocking conclusion to “Haunted.”
Superman and Impulse face off against the Black Flash in Las Vegas!
Meanwhile, events move into crisis mode on Earth 2…
JSA LIBERTY FILES: THE WHISTLING SKULL #5
Written by B. CLAY MOORE
Art and cover by TONY HARRIS
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, 5 of 6, $2.99 US • RATED T
The Whistling Skull’s in a bit of a jam at Der Karneval!
Can Nigel overcome his snake phobia in time to help him?
These horrifying products of Nazi experimentation, however, refuse to go down without a fight.
And in Japan, more is revealed about the fate of the previous Skull!
BATMAN: LI’L GOTHAM #1
Written by DUSTIN NGUYEN and DEREK FRIDOLFS
Art by DUSTIN NGUYEN and DEREK FRIDOLFS
Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
1:10 Variant cover by CHRIS BURNHAM
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED E
The first time in print for this hit all-ages digital first series!
First, Robin needs Batman’s help to learn the true meaning of Halloween. Then, on Thanksgiving, Batman and Robin join the families of Gotham City around the table for a holiday feast—and birds of a feather flock together to stage a march against the city…led by The Penguin!
SUPERMAN FAMILY ADVENTURES #12
Written by ART BALTAZAR and FRANCO
Art and cover by ART BALTAZAR
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED E • FINAL ISSUE
Because you demanded it! The return of the lunch lady! Er, we mean, the return of DARKSEID!
Has he returned for good—or evil? Is he going to make us pancakes?
When the Super Family leaps into action, will they be trapped in Apokolips?!
MAD MAGAZINE #521
Written and illustrated by THE USUAL GANG OF IDIOTS
On sale APRIL 24 • 56 pg, FC, $5.99 US
April’s here, and that means it’s time for a new issue of MAD! Hey, it’s more fun than doing your tax returns, right?
LOONEY TUNES #212
Written by SHOLLY FISCH
Art and cover by ROBERT POPE and SCOTT McRAE
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED E
Bugs Bunny makes a wrong turn at Albuquerque and ends up in Rocky and Mugsy’s jail cell!
Can Bugs be their way out? Or will they realize there’s no place like home?
SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? #32
Written by SHOLLY FISCH
Art by SCOTT NEELY
Cover by SCOTT GROSS
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED E
Famed movie director Albert Hatchplot is being haunted by the greatest menaces from his most famous movies!
Can Scooby and the gang survive the crazed birds and killer crop dusters long enough to discover the truth?
HE-MAN AND THE MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE #1
Written by KEITH GIFFEN
Art by POP MHAN
Cover by ED BENES
1:25 Variant cover by TERRY DODSON and RACHEL DODSON
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
First exciting issue of the new, ongoing adventures of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe!
While the Masters of the Universe mourn the loss of a fallen friend, Hordak infiltrates Eternia!
Featuring the return of She-Ra! Now known as Despara, the most lethal weapon in Hordak’s army, she returns to Eternia as He-Man’s newest enemy!
INJUSTICE: GODS AMONG US #4
Written by TOM TAYLOR
Art by JHEREMY RAAPACK and MIKE S. MILLER
Cover by MICO SUAYAN
On sale APRIL 24 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
All-new digital adventures in print for the first time!
Based on the upcoming DC fighting game from NetherRealm Studios, creators of Mortal Kombat!
Superman discovers that not every nation on Earth is willing to fall in line with the new world order!
A team of the world’s most powerful Super Heroes unites to confront an old ally.
INSURGENT #4
Written by F.J. DeSANTO and TODD FARMER
Art and cover by FEDERICO DALLOCCHIO
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, 4 of 6, $2.99 US • RATED T+
John Ravane leads his elite commandos into the heart of occupied Manhattan to rescue the most powerful leaders on Earth from the clutches of the Insurgents while also trying to locate the deadly Tenth Plague device before it detonates.
After Ravane learns where the U.S. government is holding his daughter, can Cindy keep the mission AND Ravane from going off the rails before New York City is lost forever to the Insurgents?
As the Insurgent Leader secretly tries to negotiate with President Chong for peace, loyalties are questioned, lives are lost, and action abounds in this original miniseries!
COLLECTED EDITIONS Group Solicits
BATMAN AND ROBIN VOL. 2: PEARL HC
Written by PETER J. TOMASI
Art by PATRICK GLEASON, MICK GRAY, LEE GARBETT, ANDY CLARKE and others
Cover by PATRICK GLEASON and MICK GRAY
On sale JUNE 5 • 176 pg, FC, $24.99 US
After the events of BATMAN & ROBIN VOLUME 1: BORN TO KILL, it’s obvious that Damian has a long way to go before he’ll be accepted into Gotham City’s crimefighting family. Will Damian ever be able to live up to the standards that Nightwing, Red Robin and Red Hood set before him?
After a battle with the former Robins, can Damian’s convictions stand up to a confrontation with the Dark Knight’s greatest foe: The Joker?
Collects BATMAN AND ROBIN #9-14 and 0.
AQUAMAN VOL. 1: THE TRENCH TP
Written by GEOFF JOHNS
Art by IVAN REIS, JOE PRADO and EBER FERREIRA
Cover by IVAN REIS and JOE PRADO
On sale MAY 15 • 144 pg, FC, $14.99 US
The first collection of the new AQUAMAN series, now in trade paperback!
The superstar creators from BLACKEST NIGHT and BRIGHTEST DAY reunite to take AQUAMAN to amazing new depths!
AQUAMAN has renounced the throne of Atlantis – but now, from a forgotten corner of the ocean emerges…THE TRENCH!
Collecting AQUAMAN #1-6!
THE PHANTOM STRANGER VOL. 1: A STRANGER AMONG US TP
Written by DAN DIDIO and J.M. DeMATTEIS
Art by BRENT ANDERSON, PHILIP TAN and SCOTT HANNA
Cover by BRENT ANDERSON
On sale MAY 29 • 144 pg, FC, $14.99 US
Who has been sacrificed? Who is guilty? Who can save us? And who is The Phantom Stranger? Cursed for a betrayal that affected the very course of history, the Stranger walks the Earth attempting to atone for his sins. His actions have consequences, and as he fulfills his duty, the people he encounters will never be the same.
Collecting THE PHANTOM STRANGER #0-5.
GRIFTER VOL. 2: NEWFOUND POWER TP
Written by ROB LIEFELD and FRANK TIERI
Art by SCOTT CLARK, MARAT MYCHAELS and others
Cover by ROB LIEFELD
On sale MAY 22 • 208 pg, FC, $16.99 US
GRIFTER faces off against the DAEMONITES alongside DEATHBLOW and VOODOO! But the super-weapon in the fight against Helspont proves to be more than even Grifter can handle!
Collecting GRIFTER #9-16 and 0.
DEMON KNIGHTS VOL. 2: THE AVALON TRAP TP
Written by PAUL CORNELL
Art by BERNARD CHANG, DIOGENES NEVES and others
Cover by MICHAEL CHOI
On sale MAY 22 • 160 pg, FC, $14.99 US
The Demon Knights learn of the twisted love shared by Madame Xanadu and Etrigan. Even more twists abound as they travel to Avalon to revive Merlin, only to find more dangers than they could have expected!
Collects DEMON KNIGHTS #0 and 8-12.
THE RAVAGERS VOL. 1: THE KIDS FROM N.O.W.H.E.R.E. TP
Written by HOWARD MACKIE and TOM DeFALCO
Art by IAN CHURCHILL, TOM RANEY, DANIEL SAMPERE, JULIUS GOPEZ, TYLER KIRKHAM and others
Cover by IAN CHURCHILL
On sale MAY 8 • 176 pg, FC, $16.99 US
Spinning directly out of DC’s “The Culling” crossover! Fairchild, brother and sister Thunder and Lightning, the monstrous Ridge, Beast Boy, and Terra are being pursued by Rose Wilson and Warblade, who want them dead at any cost. But even as they run from their enemies, these strangers turned allies have to contend with each other as well.
Collects THE RAVAGERS #1-7.
SUPERMAN VOL. 2: SECRETS AND LIES HC
Written by DAN JURGENS, KEITH GIFFEN, SCOTT LOBDELL and FABIAN NICIEZA
Art by DAN JURGENS, JESUS MERINO, KENNETH ROCAFORT, PASCAL ALIXE and others
Cover by KENNETH ROCAFORT
On sale JUNE 26 • 176 pg, FC, $24.99 US
Tucked away high in the Himalayas, a long dormant evil has made these snowy mountaintops its home. Helspont, a descendant of the ancient alien race of Daemonites, has enlisted an army of robots to obtain all there is to know about the Kryptonian menace standing between him and dominion over the Earth. Can Helspont gain control over Superman and use him to execute his invasion plan?
Collects SUPERMAN #7-12 and SUPERMAN ANNUAL #1.
SUPERMAN: ACTION COMICS VOL. 1 — SUPERMAN AND THE MEN OF STEEL TP
Written by GRANT MORRISON
Backup stories written by SHOLLY FISCH
Art by RAGS MORALES, ANDY KUBERT, BRENT ANDERSON, RICK BRYANT, JESSE DELPERDANG and SEAN PARSONS
Backup stories art by BRAD WALKER and CHRISCROSS
Cover by RAGS MORALES
On sale MAY 1 • 200 pg, FC, $16.99 US
The first collection of GRANT MORRISON’S epic run on ACTION COMICS, with art by RAGS MORALES, ANDY KUBERT and more!
In these startling tales, the people of METROPOLIS turn on their new champion! Plus, the SUPERMAN of today and the LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES must save the jeans-wearing Superman of five years ago!
Collects ACTION COMICS #1-8.
SUPERBOY VOL. 2: EXTRACTION TP
Written by SCOTT LOBDELL and TOM DeFALCO
Art by R.B. SILVA, BRETT BOOTH and others
Cover by IAN CHURCHILL
On sale MAY 29 • 160 pg, FC, $14.99 US
When the organization known as N.O.W.H.E.R.E. captures Superboy, the Teen Titans and Legion Lost and pits the young heroes against each other to weed out the weak, it will take everything Superboy has to save himself and his new friends from each other.
Collects SUPERBOY #0 and 8-12 and TEEN TITANS #10.
LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES VOL. 2: THE DOMINATORS TP
Written by PAUL LEVITZ
Art by STEVE LIGHTLE, YILDIRAY CINAR, FRANCIS PORTELA, SCOTT KOLINS and others
Cover by STEVE LIGHTLE
On sale MAY 8 • 192 pg, FC, $16.99 US
One of the Legion’s oldest foes returns and plans to destroy the Legion of Super-Heroes from the inside out! The Dominators have kidnapped Braniac 5 and Dream Girl, and it’s up to Star Boy to rescue them!
Collects LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #8-14 and 0.
ABSOLUTE SUPERMAN/BATMAN VOL. 1 HC
Written by JEPH LOEB
Art by ED McGUINNESS, DEXTER VINES, PAT LEE and MICHAEL TURNER
Cover by ED McGUINNESS and DEXTER VINES
Advance solicit • On sale AUGUST 14 • 336 pg, FC, 8.25” x 12.5”, $99.99 US
Collecting the best-selling run of SUPERMAN/BATMAN written by Jeph Loeb, with art by Ed McGuinness, Michael Turner and Pat Lee!
The iconic Super Heroes unite when Lex Luthor, now president of the United States, accuses Superman of a crime against humanity, and assembles a top-secret team of powerhouse heroes to bring Superman in—dead or alive. And in the second story, prepare for the arrival of Supergirl! Batman has discovered something strange on the bottom of Gotham Bay, which leads him to a mysterious and powerful teenaged girl bent on destroying Gotham City!
Collecting SUPERMAN/BATMAN #1-13.
BATMAN: DEATH BY DESIGN TP
Written by CHIP KIDD
Art and cover by DAVE TAYLOR
On sale MAY 8 • 112 pg, FC, $14.99 US
In this original graphic novel from superstar writer/designer Chip Kidd and artist Dave Taylor, Gotham City is undergoing one of the most expansive construction booms in its history. The most prestigious architects from across the globe have buildings in various phases of completion all over town. As chairman of the Gotham Landmarks Commission, Bruce Wayne has been a key part of this boom, which signals a golden age of architectural ingenuity for the city. And then, the explosions begin.
All manner of design-related malfunctions—faulty crane calculations, sturdy materials suddenly collapsing, software glitches, walkways giving way and more—cause casualties across the city. This bizarre string of seemingly random catastrophes threatens to bring down the whole construction industry. Fingers are pointed as Batman must somehow solve the problem and find whoever is behind it all.
SOLO DELUXE EDITION HC
Written by DARWYN COOKE, JEPH LOEB, BRIAN AZZARELLO, RICHARD CORBEN, TIM SALE, JOHN ARCUDI, HOWARD CHAYKIN, MICHAEL ALLRED, NEIL GAIMAN, STEVEN T. SEAGLE, SERGIO ARAGONES, MARK EVANIER, BRENDAN McCARTHY and others
Art by TIM SALE, RICHARD CORBEN, PAUL POPE, HOWARD CHAYKIN, DARWYN COOKE, JORDI BERNET, MICHAEL ALLRED, TEDDY KRISTIANSEN, SCOTT HAMPTON, DAMION SCOTT, SERGIO ARAGONES and BRENDAN McCARTHY
Cover by TIM SALE
On sale JUNE 5 • 568 pg, FC, 7.0625” x 10.875”, $49.99 US
At last, the acclaimed 12-issue series SOLO is collected, featuring the work of some of comics’ greatest creators, including Darwyn Cooke, Tim Sale, Paul Pope and so many others. With stories starring Batman, Robin, Superman, The Spectre, The Teen Titans and more, as well as westerns, war stories, science fiction epics, humor and horror, this is a collection you won’t want to miss!
Collects SOLO #1-12.
STORMWATCH VOL. 2 HC
Written by WARREN ELLIS
Art by TOM RANEY, RANDY ELLIOTT, OSCAR JIMENEZ, BRYAN HITCH, PAUL NEARY and others
Cover by BRYAN HITCH and PAUL NEARY
RESOLICIT • On sale JUNE 12 • 384 pg, FC, $29.99 US
Warren Ellis concludes his run on Stormwatch, redefining the team and introducing new members including the powerhouse Apollo and brutal Midnighter. But when disaster strikes in the form of alien creatures, can the team survive? Plus, Ellis introduces the concept of The Bleed, the fabric between realities that becomes a major aspect of the Wildstorm and DC Universe!
Collecting STORMWATCH #48, 49 and #1-11.
IN THE DAYS OF THE MOB HC
Written by JACK KIRBY
Art by JACK KIRBY, VINCE COLLETTA and MIKE ROYER
Cover by JACK KIRBY and FRANK GIACOIA
ADVANCE SOLICIT • On sale AUGUST 7 • 108 pg, B&W, 10” x 13.5”, $39.99 US
After arriving at DC Comics at the start of the 1970s, one of Jack Kirby’s first projects was the black and white magazine IN THE DAYS OF THE MOB, which featured stories of organized crime in the 1930s. Now, this hard-to-find magazine is reprinted for the first time!
Collects IN THE DAYS OF THE MOB #1 and stories from AMAZING WORLD OF DC COMICS #1 and 10.
BATMAN BEYOND: 10,000 CLOWNS TP
Written by ADAM BEECHEN
Art by NORM BREYFOGLE
Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
On sale MAY 15 • 176 pg, FC, $16.99 US
When the Jokerz gang, a group of criminals inspired by the Clown Prince of Crime, launches a series of coordinated attacks all around the town, Terry McGinnis can only save so many people. Who can he turn to for help?
Collects stories from BATMAN BEYOND UNLIMITED #1-13.
JUSTICE LEAGUE BEYOND: KONSTRICTION TP
Written by DEREK FRIDOLFS and DUSTIN NGUYEN
Art by DUSTIN NGUYEN and DEREK FRIDOLFS
Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
On sale MAY 15 • 176 pg, FC, $16.99 US
Batman is a new recruit in the mighty Justice League, but the team will be immediately tested by a very Neo Gotham-related enemy! How will they work together to combat this threat?
Collects stories from BATMAN BEYOND UNLIMITED #1-10.
WATCHMEN DELUXE EDITION HC
Written by ALAN MOORE
Art and cover by DAVE GIBBONS
On sale MAY 29 • 448 pg, FC, 7.0625” x 10.875”, $39.99 US
In the mid-eighties, Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons created WATCHMEN, changing the course of comics’ history and essentially remaking how popular culture perceived the genre. Popularly cited as the point where comics came of age, WATCHMEN’s sophisticated take on superheroes has been universally acclaimed for its psychological depth and realism. Now, DC collects this series in the popular Deluxe Edition format.
Includes sketches, bonus material and a new introduction by artist Dave Gibbons.
Collects WATCHMEN #1-12.
THE CAPTAIN COMET ARCHIVES HC
Written by JOHN BROOME, GERRY CONWAY and others
Art by CARMINE INFANTINO, MURPHY ANDERSON and others
Cover by CARMINE INFANTINO
ADVANCE SOLICIT • On sale AUGUST 21 • 400 pg, FC, $75.00 US
Captain Comet faces alien invasions and weird monsters from distant worlds in these stories from DC’s classic science fiction series STRANGE ADVENTURES, as well as his 1970s adventures!
Collects STRANGE ADVENTURES #9-44, 46 and 49, and SECRET SOCIETY OF SUPER-VILLAINS #2-6.
THE JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA CHRONICLES VOL. 1 TP
Written by GARDNER FOX
Art by MIKE SEKOWSKY, BERNARD SACHS and others
Cover by MIKE SEKOWSKY and MURPHY ANDERSON
On sale MAY 22 • 168 pg, FC, $14.99 US
Presenting the adventures of the JLA in chronological order! Learn how the team first gathered to battle the intergalactic conqueror Starro!
Collects THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #28-30 and JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #1-3.
SUPERMAN: THE GOLDEN AGE OMNIBUS VOL. 1 HC
Written by JERRY SIEGEL
Art by JOE SHUSTER and others
Cover by DARWYN COOKE
On sale JUNE 5 • 784 pg, FC, $75.00 US
The early adventures of Superman are collected in one massive hardcover as he battles social injustice and political corruption, fighting for the common man. Includes the first appearances of Lois Lane and Lex Luthor.
Collecting stories from ACTION COMICS #1-31, NEW YORK WORLD’S FAIR #1, NEW YORK WORLD’S FAIR 1940, and SUPERMAN #1-7.
SUPERMAN EARTH ONE TP
Written by J. MICHAEL STRACZYNSKI
Art and cover by SHANE DAVIS and SANDRA HOPE
On sale MAY 1 • 136 pg, FC, $12.99 US
Forget everything you know about The Man of Steel and brace yourself for a staggering new take on the world’s most popular Super Hero.
What would happen if the origin of The Man of Tomorrow were introduced today for the very first time? Return to Smallville and experience the journey of Earth’s favorite adopted son as he grows from boy to Superman like you’ve never seen before!
THE DARK Group Solicits
CONSTANTINE #2
Written by JEFF LEMIRE and RAY FAWKES
Art by RENATO GUEDES
Fold-out cover by JUAN JOSE RYP
1:25 Variant cover by RENATO GUEDES
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
Which ghostly menace haunts Constantine today?
THE PHANTOM STRANGER #7
Written by DAN DIDIO and J.M. DeMATTEIS
Art and fold-out cover by GENE HA and ZANDER CANNON
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Do you dare ask who slayed the Stranger?
SWORD OF SORCERY #7
Written by CHRISTY MARX
Backup story written by MARC ANDREYKO
Art and fold-out cover by AARON LOPRESTI
Backup story art by ANDREI BRESSAN
On sale APRIL 17 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
What is the great evil Constantine unleashes on Gemworld, and why is Amethyst powerless to stop him?
JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #19
Written by JEFF LEMIRE and RAY FAWKES
Art and fold-out cover by MIKEL JANIN
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
The House of Mystery is under seige—can special guest star The Flash help Justice League Dark battle this unexpected threat?
ANIMAL MAN #19
Written by JEFF LEMIRE
Art by STEVE PUGH
Fold-out cover by JAE LEE
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
As Animal Man’s popularity grows, the paparazzi follow him everywhere. But is there one place he wishes they just wouldn’t go?
SWAMP THING #19
Written by CHARLES SOULE
Art by KANO
Fold-out cover by ANDY BRASE
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
What could Swamp Thing possibly fear more than The Scarecrow?
DIAL H #11
Written by CHINA MIEVILLE
Art by ALBERTO PONTICELLI and DAN GREEN
Fold-out cover by BRIAN BOLLAND
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
What? The? Flash?
DEMON KNIGHTS #19
Written by ROBERT VENDITTI
Art and fold-out cover by BERNARD CHANG
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
What undead menaces threaten the lives of the Demon Knights?
I, VAMPIRE #19
Written by JOSHUA HALE FIALKOV
Art by FERNANDO BLANCO and ANDREA SORRENTINO
Fold-out cover by ANDREA SORRENTINO
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+ • FINAL ISSUE
With this, the final issue, will Andrew Bennett survive to dawn’s light?
DC COLLECTIBLES Group Solicits
MAN OF STEEL: SUPERMAN 1:6 SCALE ICONIC STATUE
Sculpted by Gentle Giant Studios Statue measures
13.25” high x 8.5” wide x 5.75” deep.
$129.95 US • On Sale May 2013
*Allocations May Occur
AARDMAN BATMAN AND ROBIN (CLASSIC) ACTION FIGURE 2-PACK
From Aardman, the British brains behind Wallace and Gromit, comes their own unique take on the Dynamic Duo. Though one does rarely see bats and robins together, Batman and the Boy Wonder, Robin, are inseparable. Just don’t expect Robin to answer the phone.
* Action Figure * $39.95 US • On Sale May 2013
*Allocations May Occur
1:1 SCALE GREEN LANTERN POWER BATTERY AND RING PROP REPLICA
The Oath of the Green Lanterns!
IN BRIGHTEST DAY, IN BLACKEST NIGHT, NO EVIL SHALL ESCAPE MY SIGHT.
LET THOSE WHO WORSHIP EVIL’S MIGHT BEWARE MY POWER, GREEN LANTERN’S LIGHT!
Now you can join the fight to protect sector 2814 with your very own Green Lantern power battery and ring! The first in an all-new line of power batteries, featuring a brand new finish, this Green Lantern power battery and ring will make a stunning addition to any desk, so recite the oath and order now!
Measuring approximately 11.5” high.
$199.95 US • On Sale May 2013
*Allocations May Occur
BATMAN STATUE BY MICHAEL ALLRED
DESIGNED BY MICHAEL ALLRED
SCULPTED BY JONATHAN MATTHEWS
Celebrated artist Mike Allred brings his distinctive style to the caped crusader with this latest statue in the Batman Black & White line! His batarang at the ready, Batman is rendered in monochromatic tones complemented by Allred’s retro design. Making this statue an exciting addition to any bookshelf.
Statue measures 7” high x 6” wide x 4.25” deep.
$79.95 US • On Sale May 2013
*Allocations May Occur
THE EDGE Group Solicits
TEAM 7 #7
Written by JUSTIN JORDAN
Art by PASCAL ALIXE
Fold-out cover by KEN LASHLEY
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
What new member, who threatens to tear the team apart, is welcomed into The New 52?
THRESHOLD #4
Written by KEITH GIFFEN
Art by TOM RANEY
Backup story art by SCOTT KOLINS
Fold-out cover by HOWARD PORTER
On sale APRIL 10 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
What it the only cosmic entity strong enough to trap The Hunted in the city they’re hiding?
ALL-STAR WESTERN #19
Written by JUSTIN GRAY and JIMMY PALMIOTTI
Art by MORITAT
Backup story art by STAZ JOHNSON
Fold-out cover by GLENN FABRY
On sale APRIL 24 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T+
What type of gold means certain death for Jonah Hex?
DEATHSTROKE #19
Written by JUSTIN JORDAN
Art by EDGAR SALAZAR and SCOTT HANNA
Fold-out cover by JUAN JOSE RYP
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
Which teens are the only ones deadly enough to stop Deathstroke?
SUICIDE SQUAD #19
Written by ADAM GLASS
Art by HENRIK JONSSON and SANDU FLOREA
Fold-out cover by TRAVEL FOREMAN
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
There’s a new leader for the Suicide Squad—but will the team stay or die?
STORMWATCH #19
Written by JIM STARLIN
Art by YVEL GUICHET and JONAS TRINDADE
Fold-out cover by JIM STARLIN
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
Team StormWatch is lost in a dimension shift—so what team will rise and take their place?
GREEN LANTERN Group Solicits
GREEN LANTERN #19
Written by GEOFF JOHNS
Art by DOUG MAHNKE and CHRISTIAN ALAMY
Fold-out cover by GARY FRANK
1:25 MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $3.99 US
Which one hero has the power to bring down all the Lantern Corps?
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
GREEN LANTERN CORPS #19
Written by PETER J. TOMASI
Art by FERNANDO PASARIN and SCOTT HANNA
Fold-out cover by ANDY KUBERT and SANDRA HOPE
1:25 B&W Variant cover by ANDY KUBERT and SANDRA HOPE
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
One of biggest Green Lanterns rises from the dead? Will he help save the corps, or ruin it?
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
GREEN LANTERN: NEW GUARDIANS #19
Written by TONY BEDARD
Art and fold-out cover by AARON KUDER
1:25 B&W Variant cover by AARON KUDER
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
If that’s Kyle, then who is the new White Lantern?
RED LANTERNS #19
Written by PETER MILLIGAN
Art and fold-out cover by MIGUEL SEPULVEDA
1:25 B&W Variant cover by MIGUEL SEPULVEDA
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
All the rage of the Red Lantern Corps is focused on one target. Care to guess who it is?
JUSTICE LEAGUE Group Solicits
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #3
Written by GEOFF JOHNS
Backup story written by MATT KINDT
Art and fold-out cover by DAVID FINCH
Backup story art by SCOTT CLARK
MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
1:100 B&W Variant cover by DAVID FINCH
On sale APRIL 3 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $4.99 US
A new Secret Society is forming-—but which of its members has the power to attack the Justice League from within?
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
GREEN ARROW #19
Written by JEFF LEMIRE
Art and fold-out cover by ANDREA SORRENTINO
1:25 MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
What startling secret is revealed on the island that gave Green Arrow birth?
KATANA #3
Written by ANN NOCENTI
Art by CRISTINA CORONAS and BILL SIENKIEWICZ
Fold-out cover by JUAN JOSE RYP
1:25 B&W Variant cover by JUAN JOSE RYP
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
If Katana’s sword is shattered, whose souls are escaping?
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA’S VIBE #3
Written by ANDREW KREISBERG
Art by PETE WOODS and SEAN PARSONS
Fold-out cover by BRETT BOOTH and NORM RAPMUND
1:25 B&W Variant cover by BRETT BOOTH and NORM RAPMUND
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
What is the one super power that is more than a match for Vibe and how can it tear the universe apart?
JUSTICE LEAGUE #19
Written by GEOFF JOHNS
Art and fold-out cover by IVAN REIS and JOE PRADO
Backup story art by GARY FRANK
MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
1:100 B&W Variant cover by IVAN REIS and JOE PRADO
On sale APRIL 17 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $4.99 US
Who is the one person dangerous enough to use Kryptonite against Superman?
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
AQUAMAN #19
Written by GEOFF JOHNS
Art and fold-out cover by PAUL PELLETIER and SEAN PARSONS
1:25 MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
The Dead King takes the throne as the true king of Atlantis—but who will be the first to kneel before him?
THE FLASH #19
Written by BRIAN BUCCELLATO
Art by MARCIO TAKARA
Fold-out cover by FRANCIS MANAPUL
1:25 MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
What is the latest and greatest threat to The Flash and all those closest to him?
WONDER WOMAN #19
Written by BRIAN AZZARELLO
Art by TONY AKINS and DAN GREEN
Fold-out cover by CLIFF CHIANG
1:25 MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
“We Can Be Heroes” blank variant cover also available
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
What is the one way Wonder Woman can stop Orion?
THE SAVAGE HAWKMAN #19
Written by TOM DeFALCO
Art and fold-out cover by JOE BENNETT and ART THIBERT
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
The Secret Society strikes again—but who is the one member strong enough to ground The Savage Hawkman?
THE FURY OF FIRESTORM: THE NUCLEAR MAN #19
Written by DAN JURGENS
Art and fold-out cover by DAN JURGENS and RAY McCARTHY
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
What’s more deadly to fire than a Killer Frost?
DC UNIVERSE PRESENTS #19
Written by TONY BEDARD
Art by JESUS SAIZ
Fold-out cover by JESUS MERINO
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T • FINAL ISSUE
In this final issue, what time displaced-hero has arrived on our world—and is the destruction he brings the herald to a great disaster?
EARTH 2 #11
Written by JAMES ROBINSON
Art by NICOLA SCOTT and TREVOR SCOTT
Cover by BRETT BOOTH and NORM RAPMUND
1:25 B&W Variant cover by BRETT BOOTH and NORM RAPMUND
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
As Dr Fate emerges as the latest hero on Earth 2, what other heroes make a most unexpected appearance?
WORLDS’ FINEST #11
Written by PAUL LEVITZ
Art by BARRY KITSON and others
Cover by BARRY KITSON
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Mr. Terrific and Power Girl reunited? But if Michael Holt is still on Earth 2, who is kissing Karen Starr?
SUPERMAN Group Solicits
ACTION COMICS #19
Written by ANDY DIGGLE
Art by TONY S. DANIEL and BATT
Fold-out cover by TONY S. DANIEL
1:25 Variant cover by TONY S. DANIEL
On sale APRIL 3 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $4.99 US
Lex Luthor is in jail and his battlesuit is back in action. But if he’s not wearing it, who is?
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
SUPERMAN #19
Written by SCOTT LOBDELL
Art and fold-out cover by KENNETH ROCAFORT
1:25 MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Who is the one person with the power to turn Wonder Woman against Superman?
SUPERBOY #19
Written by TOM DeFALCO
Art by R.B. SILVA and ROB LEAN
Fold-out cover by ARDIAN SYAF
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Superboy discovers he is more than a clone—but what is the shocking secret behind his origin and birth?
SUPERGIRL #19
Written by MIKE JOHNSON
Art and fold-out cover by MAHMUD ASRAR
1:25 MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
In a battle of equals, which girl will reign supreme?
VERTIGO Solicits
GET JIRO! TP
Written by ANTHONY BOURDAIN and JOEL ROSE
Art and cover by LANGDON FOSS
On sale MAY 1 • 160 pg, FC, $14.99 US • MATURE READERS
Don’t miss this original graphic novel from Anthony Bourdain, renowned chef, New York Times bestselling author (Kitchen Confidential, Medium Raw) and star of the Emmy-winning hit travel show No Reservations and the new series The Layover! Cowritten with Joel Rose (LA PACIFICA, Kill Kill Faster Faster) this stylized send-up of food culture and society features spectacular detailed and dynamic art by Langdon Foss.
In a not-too-distant future of food-obsessed L.A., where master chefs rule the town like crime lords and people literally kill for a seat at the best restaurant, Jiro, a renegade and ruthless sushi chef arrives in town with strong ideas of his own. It’s a bloody culinary war of epic proportions, and in the end, no chef may be left alive!
FAIREST #14
Written by BILL WILLINGHAM
Art by BARRY KITSON
Cover by ADAM HUGHES
On sale APRIL 3 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • MATURE READERS
Dating is hard for everyone in this standalone tale—but it’s especially tricky if you’re a gorgeous tree nymph from Fabletown. Princess Alder tells her tales of woe to Reynard the fox in a special issue written by FABLES writer/creator Bill Willingham and featuring the art of superstar Barry Kitson (The Amazing Spider-Man).
FABLES #128
Written by BILL WILLINGHAM
Art by MARK BUCKINGHAM
Cover by JOAO RUAS
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • MATURE READERS
Bigby howls back to Castle Dark for a showdown with Prince Brandish for the hand of his/their wife, Snow White. Will anyone walk away alive?
DJANGO UNCHAINED #5
Based on the screenplay by QUENTIN TARANTINO
Art by R.M. GUERA and JASON LATOUR
Cover by FRANK QUITELY
1:25 Variant cover by TBD
On sale APRIL 24 • 48 pg, FC, 5 of 6, $4.99 US • MATURE READERS
Retailers: This issue will ship with two covers. Please see the Order Form for details.
The latest chapter of the miniseries adaptation of the screenplay from the Quentin Tarantino film, with a cover by Frank Quitely!
Based on the entire, uncut story, containing scenes that may not appear in the final film!
It’s no holds barred as Django goes all out to save his beloved wife, Broomhilda!
HOUSE OF SECRETS OMNIBUS HC
Written by STEVEN T. SEAGLE
Art by TEDDY KRISTIANSEN, DUNCAN FEGREDO, DEAN ORMSTON and others
Cover by TEDDY KRISTIANSEN
RESOLICIT • On sale APRIL 10 • 752 pg, FC, $75.00 US • MATURE READERS
In this hardcover collecting HOUSE OF SECRETS #1-25, a story from VERTIGO: WINTER’S EDGE #1 and the 2-part FAÇADE miniseries, teenage runaway Rain Harper becomes part of a supernatural justice system in a haunted mansion. Five spirits known as the Juris summon people to judge them for their secrets. Acting as a “witness,” Rain must try to save the defendants from their sentences.
Retailers: This title is resolicited. All current orders are cancelled.
LUCIFER BOOK ONE TP
Written by MIKE CAREY
Art by SCOTT HAMPTON, CHRIS WESTON, JAMES HODGKINS, WARREN PLEECE, DEAN ORMSTON, PETER GROSS and RYAN KELLY
Cover by SCOTT HAMPTON
On sale MAY 29 • 392 pg, FC, $29.99 US • MATURE READERS
Cast out of Heaven, Lucifer Morningstar has resigned his throne in Hell for Los Angeles. Emerging from the pages of THE SANDMAN, the former Lord of Hell is enjoying retirement as the proprietor of L.A.’s most elite piano bar when an assignment from the Creator Himself threatens to change all that. Collects THE SANDMAN PRESENTS: LUCIFER #1-3 and LUCIFER #1-13.
SAUCER COUNTRY #14
Written by PAUL CORNELL
Art and cover by RYAN KELLY
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • MATURE READERS • FINAL ISSUE
Arcadia finally learns the “truth” about the alien invasion—but what she chooses to do with that information will change the world forever! Don’t miss the FINAL ISSUE of this mind-bending series!
THE UNWRITTEN #48
Written by MIKE CAREY
Art by PETER GROSS
Cover by YUKO SHIMIZU
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • MATURE READERS
In part 2 of “Orpheus in the Underworld,” Tom’s quest for Lizzie has hit a major hurdle, in that he no longer remembers who either of them is. But is it possible he’s already found her without even realizing it? And who holds the true power in Hades, where masks may hide anything—or nothing?
YOUNG JUSTICE Group Solicits
LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #19
Written by PAUL LEVITZ
Art and fold-out cover by KEITH GIFFEN and SCOTT KOBLISH
On sale APRIL 17 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
The Legion of Super-Heroes is lost and hurtling into the sun—is it possible to save them all?
TEEN TITANS #19
Written by SCOTT LOBDELL
Art and fold-out cover by EDDY BARROWS and EBER FERREIRA
1:25 MAD Variant cover by The Usual Gang of Idiots
On sale APRIL 24 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Which new member of the Teen Titans reveals his true colors?
THE RAVAGERS #11
Written by MICHAEL ALAN NELSON
Art by IG GUARA and NORM RAPMUND
Fold-out cover by MICHAEL GOLDEN
On sale APRIL 10 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
The latest creature to escape from N.O.W.H.E.R.E. brings death to The Ravagers—but is it animal, vegetable or mineral?
And Announces SANDMAN Digital Comics Sale for $.99
Starting today, VERTIGO fans can download a new dedicated app featuring all Vertigo digital titles. The new app, available on the App Store, is free to download and features popular VERTIGO series THE SANDMAN, FABLES, Y: THE LAST MAN, PREACHER, 100 BULLETS, HELLBLAZER, AMERICAN VAMPIRE, THE UNWRITTEN, DMZ, THE INVISIBLES, TRANSMETROPOLITAN, and SWEET TOOTH, among others.
As an added bonus, readers who download the new VERTIGO app will have exclusive access to a three-day in-app sale that offers all SANDMAN digital comics for $.99 per issue. Written by #1 New York Times bestselling author Neil Gaiman, THE SANDMAN is one of the most acclaimed titles in the history of comics. Norman Mailer described the series as “a comic strip for intellectuals.” With a rich blend of modern myth and dark fantasy in which contemporary fiction, historical drama and legend are seamlessly interwoven, the series is considered to be one of the most original and artistically ambitious comic books of the modern age.
The launch of the app is timed to the release of four new VERTIGO series debuting each week this month, beginning with today’s publication of FAIREST by New York Times best-selling and award-winning writer Bill Willingham. A spin-off of FABLES, the series stars some of the fairest in the land and balances horror, humor and adventure. Each FAIREST storyline will explore the secret histories of one character, from Sleeping Beauty to Rapunzel to Cinderella to Thumbelina to Snow White and more. The first six issue arc drawn by Phil Jimenez (WONDER WOMAN, THE INVISIBLES) follows the misadventures of Briar Rose along with Ali Baba and the Snow Queen.
Also available same day digitally this month are the following new Vertigo series:
SAUCER COUNTRY (VERTIGO / ongoing series / 32pg. / Color / $2.99), a dark thriller that blends UFO lore and alien abduction with political intrigue, all set in the hauntingly beautiful Southwest written by Paul Cornell (DEMON KNIGHTS, Doctor Who) with art by Ryan Kelly (NEW YORK FIVE).
DOMINIQUE LAVEAU: VOODOO CHILD (VERTIGO / ongoing series / 32pg. / Color / $2.99), a high octane story set in New Orleans that blends the mortal and supernatural worlds, written by former editor-in-chief of The Source magazine, award-winning author, journalist and TV producer Selwyn Seyfu Hinds, with art by Milestone Media co-founder Denys Cowan (THE QUESTION) and John Floyd with covers by Rafael Grampá.
THE NEW DEADWARDIANS (VERTIGO / mini-series / 32pg. / Color / $2.99), a murder mystery set among the world of the undead in post-Victorian era London, brought to vivid life by writer Dan Abnett (RESURRECTION MAN) with art by newcomer I. N. J. Culbard (At The Mountains of Madness).
“Making all of our digital titles available in one downloadable location provides readers even more accessibility to our vast array of ground-breaking stories. What’s better than that? I can’t wait to get the app on my phone.” said Karen Berger, executive editor, VERTIGO. “With four new series launching in March, this is the perfect time for fans to download the VERTIGO app and keep coming back each and every week.”
“As the digital landscape becomes increasingly crowded, this stand alone app underscores DCE’s commitment to growing and spotlighting Vertigo by directly addressing its unique reader base,” stated Hank Kanalz, senior vice president of digital, DC Entertainment. “Vertigo fans can now access same day digital content faster and more conveniently on their iOS devices.”
It’s a thick stack of books this week with DC still releasing their number one books. What’s worth it? What should be skipped? Find out below!
Alpha Flight #4 – The team is on the run from the government who has been taken over through an overly complex plan. There’s a lot I like about the series, but also so much that just seems blah. Overall it’s getting much better, but there’s definitely some things strange things that don’t jive. The brutality of one particular character just doesn’t fit in with the relative niceness of Alpha Flight.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #4 – It’s the second to last issue of this series that delves into the myths of the vampires. It adds a bit to the world and the story is really entertaining, but as usual you have to question why the bad guys just don’t kill the good guys right away. That’s about the only flaw I find, for what’s turned out to be a hell of a limited series.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Batman and Robin #1 – The good here is Damian’s depiction. The mysterious bad guy also has me intrigued. The bad is the story itself which just seems silly to me. Also, how old is Batman supposed to be in the DC revamp/reboot/relaunch? If Damian is still around, he obviously can’t be younger than he was in the previous world. I’m a bit confused about that part.
Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75
Batwoman #1 – A beautiful comic book, the art alone is enough to get me to come back for more. The story on the other hand is a bit week, but still intriguing enough to get me to overlook it. What is very strong, like the art is the characterization. The various characters in the comic are well written and there’s some great female leads. It’s been a long wait for this first issue, and while I can’t say it blew me away, I’ll definitely be back for the second issue.
Story: 7.75 Art: 9 Overall: 8
Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #523 – Out of all of the Fear Itself tie-ins this one is the best, though it’s competition isn’t that great. As a whole though, I really like the American Panther storyline. There was a solid ending to it, and a great mystery left at the end that seems like it’ll lead to something more interesting going forward. With the next issue, it’ll get a new subtitle, the series is quality and a definite recommendation to make a monthly read.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Criminal: The Last of the Innocent #4 – Wow, that was one hell of an ending. This is a crime story of the best caliber. Brubaker’s story telling seems to get better and better and this one’s ending is just amazing. Another fantastic volume in the best noir on the market. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9
Daken: Dark Wolverine #14 – What the hell did I read. The heat part is great as usual, but the art seems to have taken a dip and it won’t be until next issue that’ll I’ll truly understand what’s going on. This is one part of a bigger story and by itself the issue doesn’t make too much sense or keep my interest. Hopefully the next issue will do it some justice as the “set up” issue.
Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75
Daredevil #3 – Some great pulp fun as Daredevil fights Klaw and helps a man in court. The entertaining ending is a nice end cap for the first story arc and this issue sets up a bigger bad guy that’s only hinted at. The action is good and there’s some great writing in the issue. Mark Waid has returned Daredevil to his roots and it’s fantastic so far.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Deadpool #43 – Deadpool is on the loose as he’s escaped from the mental institution, though how he’s done that isn’t really explained very well. There’s also some other plot points that seem to have been dropped. The issue is entertaining enough, but falls into the campy end of things way too much.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
Deathstroke #1 – Wow, that was a hell of a start. The issue feels more A-Team than anything else, but then that ending throws you for a spin. Pretty impressive as it gives you a good idea as to who Deathstroke is and does it all in a self-contained issue. Really solid beginning.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Demon Knights #1 – I appreciate what DC is doing here, taking some of their characters and throwing them into a world similar to one you’d find in a D&D campaign. The story is ok, but I’m not really one for straight up fantasy. My concern that it stars Etrigan and his speaking habit was not founded as that seems to have gone away, which is odd, since that was something that made the character very unique. It’s not a bad comic, but can’t say I really look forward to the second issue.
Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25
Fear Itself #6 – There’s lots of dramatic moments and some big speeches in the second to last issue of Marvel’s disappointing summer event. There’s some great moments and a lot of characters manning up, but overall this feels like that “big moment” that’s a few issues too late for me to really care or save this event from smelling like a stinker.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Fear Itself: Hulk vs. Dracula #1 – Not quite sure what the point of this limited series is as it doesn’t add a whole lot so far to the overall event. Also, isn’t the Hulk fighting in a few other places and against a few other heroes? Fear Itself has been a mess of an event, and this is another example of that.
Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75
Fear Itself: The Monkey King – A decent enough issue, but again, it doesn’t add anything to the Fear Itself storyline. I’d of much rather seen a three issue limited series come out of this than this one-shot that’s not really needed. But, even though it doesn’t add anything to Fear Itself, it’s still a good comic and hopefully we see more of this character than this one-shot.
Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8
Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E. #1 – A Hellboy wannabe I figured this was what to expect of the series after seeing it’s Flashpoint tie-in. It’s not the story is is bad, I think Hellboy is better in every sense, so there’s nothing new or interesting to keep me coming back for more.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Green Lantern #1 – Sinestro has a green ring again and Hal Jordan must go back to a normal life. Just when you think there isn’t anything more creative Geoff Johns can do with Green Lantern, this comes along. A great new start that’s fresh and interesting. The series has had some issues of late, but this first issue breathes new life into the series and again has me excited.
Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75
Grifter #1 – Huh!? Where’s the Grifter I came to know and love from Wildcats? What is this crap?!
Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75
John Carter: A Princess of Mars #1 – With Roger Langridge’s name on the comic I had to pick it up knowing nothing about this beloved story. Can’t say I’ll be coming back for the second issue. It’s not Langridge’s fault, the story just doesn’t interest me at all.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Legion Lost #1 – Hmm, a lot is interesting here, but the story is too much tied up in mystery and the action too choppy to get me to want to come back for more. I was never a Legion fan before, and can’t say this series has done anything to get me to change my mind.
Story: 6.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 6.75
Mister Terrific #1 – The beginning of the comic was interesting enough, but that ending made me not at all interested in the second issue. It was too abrupt and comes out of nowhere. There’s also the very blatant playing off that Mr. Terrific is a black hero and there’s event a rather stereotypical issue of his interest in a white woman. I’m sure the series will find it’s pace and feet after a bit, but I don’t think I’m sticking around for it.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Mystery Men #5 – A ho-hum ending to the series that attempts to mix real life events with a comic book and doesn’t pull it off too well. The series was ok, and probably will read better as a trade paperback, but the finale isn’t anything special.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
The New Avengers #16 – We get to see what Daredevil was up to during Fear Itself and the issue is actually really solid. I like the interview aspect of the issues and the story in this one is really good too. It’s Daredevil’s acceptance into the crew and it’ll be interesting to see how that goes considering his recent past.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Red Lanterns #1 – In short, this is DC’s version of Ghost Rider. It has potential, and I’ll stick around to see what that is, but the characters kind of started off as a one note gimmick and adding a bit to them will be a tough task. We’ll see how it all goes though, but so far it’s pretty decent.
Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75
Resurrection Man #1 – A lot I really liked here. I can’t say I know a lot about the character and this first issue gives you a hint about him. There’s enough here that will get me to come back. The issue though is it seems like I’ve seen this all before in a movie or television show. Heaven and hell after one man’s soul, it seems too familiar.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Suicide Squad #1 – So much I like and at the same time it makes me miss Secret Six. There’s so many costume changes that are so unnecessary too. Still, there’s more than enough to get me to come back for the next few issues and see where it goes from here.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Superboy #1 – More than enough here to get me to come back for the second issue. The story is interesting and unique enough to stand out from Superman and there’s enough mystery here with numerous characters to keep me intrigued. This might be the first “Supes” comic I get into.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25
Supreme Power #4 – Just one piece of a bigger puzzle. By itself the actions of folks makes me scratch my head, but this seems to be the end of the middle chapter of a three act play. Interesting, but it doesn’t blow me away as much as that first issue did.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #1 – An origin story that’d normally have taken an issue to get through looks like it’ll be spread out a bit. But there’s a lot here that makes Mile Morales stand out from Peter Parker. Bendis has made some interesting choices here and it’ll be interesting to see where he goes. I’ve never been an Ultimate Comics fan, but this relaunch of the line has gotten me very interested.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Uncanny X-Force #15 – The team is trying their best to take on Archangel and his new horsemen before they transform the world. Deathlok has also lost his shit in the process. The trio of Deadpool, Fantomex and Deathlok is a team I want more of. So wrong yet so right.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25
The Unwritten #29 – The story of Wilson the the Tinker grows deeper and that ending kind of came out of nowhere. The story is s bit easier to understand but no less interesting. This is one of those sleeper series more people should be reading. It challenges you in every way. Solid as usual.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
X-Men: Legacy #255 – Magneto attempts to bring a peace between the two warring armies while Rogue takes over command of a familiar bunch. The story is really just a way to get Havok, Polaris and Rachel back into the fold, the stroy I could do without.
Two weeks down of reviews and two more to go. Expect some more later today and hopefully I’ll be totally caught up by week’s end.
Alpha Flight #3 – Alpha Flight is on the run and this series at this point would be ho-hum if it weren’t for the fact I’m interested in seeing what the Unity party is really up to. The limited series is close to the half-way point and so far, it’s ok, but hasn’t made it’s case to be an ongoing comic book. The art too is off at times with odd positions of the bodies and art that just doesn’t do it for me.
Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75
American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #3 – Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy’s offshoot comic about Nazi Vampires just keeps getting better and better expanding the world we already know. Amazing stuff and I can’t recommend it enough.
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9
Avengers Academy #17 – There’s parts of this comic I liked and a lot I didn’t. The art is inconsistent, and overall the comic feels like the “B” coming to the other Avengers “A.” I know the series gets a lot of praise, but I was a much bigger fan of it’s previous incarnations, and it hasn’t quite lived up to the potential of it’s first few issues.
Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7
Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #522 – I had my doubts when I first saw the American Panther sketches, but using Fear Itself to bring back the Hate Monger has worked really well, mainly because it doesn’t deal with the terrible story that Fear Itself is, and instead treats it as a backdrop. The last story arc was ok, but this one has kicked it up a lot dealing with hate, fear and immigration, a lot of issues being debated today.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Booster Gold #47 – The art is my issue with this particular issue. It’s very, very off. The story is ok and there’s some cool moments, especially the ending, but the series clearly went out with a whimper and not the bang I’d hope for DCnU.
Story: 7 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.75
Criminal: The Last of The Innocent #3 – Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips latest entry in their noir comics is as amazing as you’d expect. Instead of following the do-gooder who gets caught up in a bad situation the focus is on the bad guy. It’s enough to inject massive life in a series that’s far and above the rest to begin with. Absolutely mastery.
Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10
Daken: Dark Wolverine #12 – Daken’s plan for the armored car robbery continues and that’d be just ok, but Daken is now having an issue with addiction, and that is getting interesting. The character doesn’t get the respect he deserves and this series is proving why he stands apart and isn’t just a second rate Wolverine.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Deadpool #41 – Deadpool is still in the crazy asylum and the series, which has been having issues lately with quality, has bounced back for at least this one. The art is back on track and I’m starting to like the move away from slapstick. It’s a big improvement.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Fear Itself #5 – This summer event by Marvel has been underwhelming and this comic is the perfect example of the issues it has. Thor dropping his usual speech, Spider-Man turning and running, and a simple solution when it comes to saving Ben Grimm. There’s attempts at cool moments here and it all falls flat.
Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.25
Fear Itself: Uncanny X-Force #2 – X-Force does it’s part in Fear Itself and I can’t say it adds anything to the storyline. They’re on the move to stop the Purifiers who are trying to take advantage of the situation and not even art by Bianchi can save this mess of a comic that doesn’t need to exist.
Story: 6.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 6.75
Fear Itself: Wolverine #2 – Too many places at once is the issue of this not needed comic tie-in. The art and character design is inconsistent and other than the parts with Wolverine’s girlfriend, I can’t say any of this is needed or important. A clear cash-in that adds nothing to the story and in fact causes bigger issues with it.
Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5
Flashpoint #4 – It’s the second to last issue of the event that’s forced DC to grow up. In a five issue limited series DC comics has not only reshaped their entire universe, but they’ve also brought their comics into modern times. The fourth issue moves the story along with some great moments and a cliffhanger for the fifth and final issue that makes me count down in anticipation of the next issue.
Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9
Flashpoint: Batman – Knight of Vengeance #3 – As a single issue, I can’t say I’ve enjoyed this final one as much as the previous two, but as a whole, all three are a solid read. This issue jumps back and forth between the past and present which fills in some of the blanks. Overall a solid three issues, even though this is the weakest of the bunch.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Flashpoint: Citizen Cold #3 – A pretty cool ending to the three issue limited series that just fits the feel of a world ending. The art is solid and story entertaining. A solid comic overall and very good limited series.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Flashpoint: Deadman and the Flying Graysons #3 – An interesting comic, but the issue is it doesn’t wrap anything up, in fact it ends as an origin comic. The story is ok, but nothing too special, but I do think the last quarter was much better than the first three fourths.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Flashpoint: Deathstroke and the Curse of The Ravager #3 – An interesting story that adds to the world of Flashpoint, but doesn’t add anything to the Flashpoint story. It’s a decent three issues, but I can’t say I came away with having to read them at all.Decent, but not great.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown #3 – Wow, did this third issue go off the rails. There’s lots of twists and turns and even more that’s just not explained. Why’s the doctor dressed as a mummy? Why are they on horses when they had a plane? Just such silliness that an ok idea crashes and burns in the end.
Story: 6.5 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5
Flashpoint: Secret Seven #3 – Out of all of the books, this one is my least favorite. I really don’t understand what was going on, and I honestly didn’t care to figure it all out. The issue is too much backstory that if you didn’t know the characters, you didn’t know what was going on.
Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5
Flashpoint: World of Flashpoint #3 – A pretty sappy ending. The good about this series is it tied directly into the great Flashpoint story, but it didn’t add anything to it in the end, except show off a bit more of the world. But, that’s about it, it’s a three issue glorified travel guide. It’s not bad in anyway, but not really a must read.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Ghost Rider #2 – I’m still not quite sure what I think about this comic. It’s not bad in any way, but also doesn’t quite grab me like I’d hope. I’m sure die-hard Ghost Rider fans will appreciate it more, but to me, it’s missing that hook that gets me really excited.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25
Hero Comics 2011 – A comic book to benefit the Hero Initiative, it features work by some greats. For $3.99 you get some awesome stories and it goes towards a good cause.
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9
Heroes for Hire #10 – The once great series has been sidelined to deal with the underwhelming Marvel event Fear Itself. The team is split between the chaos on the Raft and what’s going on at Yancy Street and neither of it is particularly entertaining.This just slows down the momentum the series had.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Iron Man 2.0 #7.1 – If the point one comics are supposed to be a jumping on point for new readers, this didn’t achieve that. Instead it’s just a continuation of the ongoing storyline which continues next issue. So the question remains why does this comic exist and why wasn’t it just the eighth issue? The issue is good in that it continues the Palmer Adley storyline, but, it doesn’t need to exist as a point one.
Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25
Irredeemable #28 – Plutonian is back and the world and The Paradigm react to his return. But what happens to the people who lied when they said they’d protect you. It’s an interesting issue and I have no idea what Mark Waid has in store next for this series.
Story: 8 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75
Mega Man #4 – A cute ending that’s perfect for younger kids. The story is entertaining and has enough nostalgia for adults to appreciate it. It’s a decent first arc, but a bit rushed overall.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8
Moon Knight #4 – Moon Knight and Echo check up on each other and have their first date, sort of. The series is beyond solid taking Moon Knight’s crazy to a whole new level. The series is fantastic with great writing and amazing art to match. This should definitely be on your pull list.
Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75
The New Avengers #15 – The issue’s focus is Squirrel Girl and her time during Fear Itself. It’s really entertaining with a great voice to the story telling and solid artwork. It might seem silly at first, but it’s a really good issue.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
New Mutants #29 – After a solid last issue, this one seems to run into the issues we’ve seen with Fear Itself tie-ins. The story just seems out of place and the characterization is off. Along with a new art style (which grew on me throughout the issue) the series seems to have swerved again. This series gets a lot of praise and I’m still not quite sure why. It’s not bad, but clearly the weakest of the “X” books.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25
Rachel Rising #1 – The first issue of Terry Moore’s new series brought with it a lot of buzz and I can see why. It’s all tease though and I think I can see where it’s going, but not 100% sure. There’s enough there though to get me to check out the next issue.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Secret Six #36 – So sad to see this series go. It’s been a great ride and this final issue has so much going for it. It’s not perfect, but it hits every note reminding us what made the series so special. It’s been great, and unfortunately we won’t be seeing it in the relaunched DCnU. Thank you Gail Simone for giving us thirty-six fantastic issues.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Severed #1 – Scott Snyder puts together another amazing horror series, which he’s shown he’s a master of. This one also takes place at the early onset of the 20th century, a time period he seems to enjoy writing about. We’re teased a lot and it’s more than enough to get me to check out the second issue.
Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9
S.H.I.E.L.D. #2 – The series continues and I continue to scratch my head. I want to like it, and the ideas seem very interesting, but to say I really understand what the hell is going on here is a lie. This is one I know I need to go back and reread the entire thing through again.
Story: 7 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.5
Supreme Power #3 – A series that continues to mix super heroes and politics, I’ve been finding what it’s been doing is interesting. There’s only one more issue left in this volume, and I’m a bit perplexed how it’s going to wrap up everything that needs to be. It’s a very interesting book though and I can’t wait to see what the fourth issue holds.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Thunderbolts #161 – The team is focused on saving Chicago, and overall the story is decent with some good interaction between the characters. I can’t say it’s great though. But, a fun read.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5
the Unwritten #28 – Huh, is really all I can say. The comic series about stories and myths begins to set it’s sites on Biblical tales. How this comic didn’t cause more of an uproar, I’ll never know. But it’s continuing to bring up interesting points in ways I can just barely comprehend.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25
Vengeance #2 – I seriously don’t get this series. It’s supposed to focus on the next generation of heroes and villains, but we’ve seen this exact same story done before, and better. I’m waiting for the big reveal, but so far, pretty unimpressed.
Story: 6.75 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.75
War of the Green Lanterns Aftermath #2 – The war is over and Sinestro still has a ring on his finger. The corps is rocked and everyone is in doubt. If anything this is an attempt to bridge the new Green Lantern series we’ll be seeing in DCnU. It’s interesting and does it’s best to set up what’s coming next.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75
Wolverine #13 – One more issue and this story arc is over thank god. Wolverine continues to run the gauntlet as we get to see the pain he’s caused from the view of his victims. Yawn.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75
X-Factor #223 – The story focusing on Rahne’s child continues and hopefully it ends soon. I can’t say this is the best of stories involving this team lately. It has it’s moments, but right now, it’s only ok.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
X-Men #15.1 – I’m so confused as to what the point of these point one comics are. I thought they’re supposed to be easy entry points to get new readers pumped and interesting about the comic and characters? This is a self contained story, but it has nothing to do with what makes the X-Men interesting. An utter failure.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75
X-Men; Legacy #253 – How come Magneto’s helmet keeps coming going? Where does he put it when he’s not wearing it. Other than that weird art issue, the story is cool and we get to the meat of what we want. The return of Havok and Polaris and Rachel.
Story: 8.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8
X-23 #13 – Laura, meet Spider-Man and the FF, FF and Spider-Man this is Laura. While that’s interesting and has potential, it’s the hint we might see the NYX crew back that gets me more excited.
The weekend is here and I plan on catching up on three weeks worth of books and begin the backlog of reviews. There’s still quite a few cons coming up, so planning begins for those as well. While I do that, what are folks plan for the weekend? While you contemplate that, here’s the news you might have missed.
We broke records for our site yesterday driven by frantic discussion on #comicmarket. Well, it’s Tuesday which is the official #comicmarket discussion. Who know what that’ll bring. I’ve got a lot to say, hopefully people are as open to listening as they were yesterday. While you head to Twitter to watch the discussion, here’s the news you might have missed.
It’s a thick stack of books dominated Flashpoint tie-ins and the debut of some high profile series. What’s worth the money and what can you skip? Find out below!
Alpha Flight #2 – There’s definitely something appropriately “Canadian” about this series both in it’s topics and it’s voice. We get a better sense as to exactly is going on and somewhat the Unity Party is up to. The series hasn’t blown me out of the water yet, but it at least has a unique voice and feel.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #2 – I said after reading the first issue whether we really needed a mini-series of the still very young and fresh American Vampire, but the answer is yes. Both series are showing off a quality that justifies and any chance to speed up the story telling is much appreciated and wanted.
Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9
Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #521 – For all those that laughed and moaned when they say sketches for the American Panther, I guess they get to eat their words. Sadly the story is tied in a bit with Fear Itself, but if it didn’t have to be, the story would be very solid dealing with hate and fear in America. If anything, the story so far doesn’t go enough, but it’s still a great read.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5
Booster Gold #46 – Booster continues to fight Doomsday and the story is ok, but really is one extended fight scene that doesn’t move the story along or give us a greater glimpse into the world of Flashpoint. The art too seems to have slipped a little. Not as good as the first two entries.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Captain America #1 – And a new Captain America series is launched almost jettisoning Brubaker’s previous run. The first issue though is beyond solid with great action, interesting mystery and a great look. This is everything I hoped for and more. Very great read and a must buy.
Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9
Daken: Dark Wolverine #11 – Daken has turned into a drug addict which is a bit of an interesting story line. I like the art style switching between him being normal and being high and as always the twisted sexual games he plays is something you don’t see in too many other series. This is one that’s flying under the radar and worth the read.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Deadpool #40 – This probably could also be called “When Deadpool Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest.” Deadpool gets sent to a psych ward, though it’s in England, which doesn’t really make sense, but oh well….
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
Fear Itself: Spider-Man #3 – Probably the best of the Fear Itself tie-ins, the story sores because it focuses not on Spider-Man and his rather uphill battle, but instead of average people suffering from the madness of the world around them. A solid three issue limited series that’s much better than the event series it’s tied into.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75
FF #6 – So much that’s very cool, but if feels wrong for Black Bolt to return under anyone’s guidance other than DnA. At the same time, I’m forced to say “huh?”
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Flashpoint: Citizen Cold #2 – The issues starts off strong enough with the Rogues out to take on Cold, but the end is a bit confusing as to what’s exactly going on at times with the action not being clear enough. Overall, still entertaining.
Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8
Flashpoint: Deathstroke – And the Curse of the Ravager #2 – The fight between Aquaman and Deathstroke’s crew continues in another issue that’s mostly fight. Again, not much movement and showing the world that is Flashpoint. For a great setting sail, the story seems to have lost it’s momentum.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75
Flashpoint: Emperor Aquaman #2 – The origin of Emperor Aquaman and it’s a very good read. We get a good sense of who he is and why he is the way he is due to this issue and…. it moves the overall story forward.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5
Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown #2 – Something was a bit uneven about this issue. It wasn’t bad, but wasn’t particularly good either. I guess overall, I feel like it just doesn’t fit into Flashpoint and doesn’t add anything to the overall universe.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Ghost Rider #1 – I wasn’t too impressed by the #0.1 issue and the first issue didn’t blow me away either.
Story: 6.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.75
Green Lantern #67 – Now that was an ending, but we’re left with tons of questions as to what to expect in the relaunch of this series. The War of the Green Lanterns was uneven at times, but the ending made up for it all.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Green Lantern Corps. #61 – A nice throwback issue that takes on a social issue and addresses it at a galactic level. At the same time we’re introduced to all of the new Lanterns recruited during the war. It’s a decent issue, but the series just seems to be killing time until DCnU kicks off.
Story: 7.25 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.25
Journey Into Mystery #625 – While I will say the series is solid, it’s a bit too convoluted in it’s dealings and double dealings. The story isn’t straightforward and you need a chart to keep track of all of the wheeling and double dealing. The series is interesting though and this issue does give us a glimpse as to the origin of the Serpent.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8
Mystery Men #3 – We’re a little over the half way point and the series introduces some more “heroes” to the fold. The story has a modern pulp feel to it that’s entertaining, but doesn’t quite meet the quality of The Twelve which it resembles. It’s a good series, but might be best to read in trade form.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
The New Avengers #14 – I’m a bit mixed on the issue. It focuses on Mockingbird and her new status as well as some issues Spider-Man is having and also what’s going on with Fear Itself. There’s one scene in particular that’s very reminiscent of 9-11 that really caused a mixed stir of emotions that I’m still processing while I write this. Is it over the top? Maybe? Is it one hell of a statement in one page? Yes. Is it beautifully drawn? Absolutely.
Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8
New Mutants #27 – Really a convoluted way to get Nate Grey back in the fold the story is so-so and the art actually sub-par for an “X” book. Even with a reboot, the series isn’t what it should be. It comes off as second class in many ways.
Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75
The Red Wing #1 – Jonathan Hickman is a brilliant writer and this series is an interesting start. I can’t say it’s quite up to snuff as his past indie series, but those are some of the best comics ever written. An interesting start though.
Story: 8.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 8
the Unwritten #27 – The series gets a bit more meta as the shift comes into how comic books have shaped the modern myth. It’s definitely interesting to read and I wish I had someone to discuss it with.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Wolverine #12 – Folks still want revenge on Wolverine and this arc just doesn’t hold up either. I like the idea of focusing on the folks that Wolverine has hurt through his actions, I’m just not sure this is the best way to go about it.
Story: 7 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.25
X-Men: Schism #1 – And in one issue everything ramps up as the latest “X” event kicks off. We’ve seen the prelude and we’ve gotten hints as to what expect, but now it’s game on. Jason Aaron has had mixed results in my opinion of his handling of various “X” titles, but this limited series kicks off with a solid start.
