Civil War #5 - Marvel

Ok, the Civil War is heating up. We start out with Johnny Storm and Sue Richards trying to elude a SHIELD team that is trying to capture them. We then have Nighthawk and Stature at the Stark Towers, ready to make a public announcement that they are ready to switch sides. But Tony's not coming. Why? Wouldn't he love to show the media that there are people rethinking their stance on the issue, and coming over to his side? Well yes. But, he and Spider-man are currently busy at the top of the tower, kicking the snot out of each other. Of course Spider-man breaks out of the building, but SHEILD already has a team of agents ready for backup. But, Tony wants to deal with Peter on his own. He still thinks he can win him over. But, Maria Hill, Fury's replacement, already has a plan in place. It's called operation Thunderbolts, and basically is a team of every villain, lunatic, and homicidal maniac that registered and are now ready to do whatever they have to to make the Govt. happy. To me, this one has trouble written all over it. The Jester and Jack o Lantern catch up with Peter in the sewers and give him a pretty thorough beating. The only thing that stops them from killing him is Maria Hill, who orders them to bring him in. But then they are immediately taken out by a mysterious benefactor. It looks like the Punisher has come to Peter's rescue. He then takes him to Captain Americas headquarters for immediate medical attention. Johnny and Sue have also found their way to Caps hideout. Nobody's happy about the Punisher being there, but they are happy that he rescued Spidey. Then we also see She-Hulk, Mr. Fantastic and Tony carting Daredevil off to the Negative Zone prison. The issue ends with Matt telling Tony, "Sleep well, Judas!". Great story, and fantastic art. Nobody can say they aren't getting enough action with this book. Enjoy!

Ghost Rider #5 - Marvel

With this issue we get a little of the history of "Johnny Blaze". Lucifer lures him back to the Quentin Carnival where it all started. It's starts to bring back the memories of Roxanne, Johnny's love of his life. I don't know if he's actually supposed to learn something, or if Lucifer is just taunting him. But, what he really wants him to see is the old trailer that Johnny and Roxanne called home. I think he's trying to make it look like it's Roxanne's fault that he's the Ghost Rider. But Johnny doesn't get that. Of course he doesn't want to either. But either way, Johnny blows up the trailer, to try to take out Lucifer, and then heads off into the sunset on his bike of flames chasing after Lucifer's next incarnation. But, left behind in the rubble, is a bible. A bible that didn't burn, and doesn't have a scorch on it. But, we aren't going to find out this issue what that means. Javier Saltares steps in this issue to help out Mark Texeira on pencils. Mark actually does the finishes. But these two mesh together very well. And of course Daniel Way is still writing it. It's a great book.

Daredevil - Father #6 - Marvel

I can't believe this book is finally here! But I have a problem, I forgot what the story is about. Other than Daredevil, and . . . . . . oh, obviously his father, I'm a bit clueless. I know that they wanted to finish this story, and it will be nice to see the whole thing in a trade paperback, but, other than that . . . . . I don't know what the point is?? Add to that, some of this is obviously not Joe Quesada's best stuff. I mean there's some pages in here that look really good, and some pages that look really rushed. I really feel cheated out of my $3.75. I mean seriously. It's been 2 1/2 years since the title first started, and 13 months since issue #5. Whatever the point was to the story, it's lost. Unless you want to go back and dig up the previous 5 issues and reread them. But again, what's the point. I know that these things happen. And I know that a lot of new projects pop up out of nowhere, but, I would think, especially a mini-series, would be pretty much all in the bag before it even started to see print. I mean seriously, otherwise you're really cheating the consumer. But, hey, thanks for finally getting it done.

1602 Fantastick Four #3 - Marvel

There's a lot of genre's out there right now. There's the new westerns, the Outer

Space drama's, the Sci-Fi epics, the obvious Super-Hero books, and the reality books, dealing with the story not of the heroes but of the people around them. Well now we seem to have the "Moby Dick" genre. I mean, yes the Fantastic Four are in this book, but really it's just a sea story, that happens to have some fantastic characters. Seriously, you could put Sinbad and the Jolly Pirates in here and it would essentially be the same story. I'll give it credit for it's cover though. I don't know it did it, but it kicks ass. But everything else about this book, and this story, swims in mediocrity. I really could go on, but surprisingly, I've read 3 or 4 books today that I didn't like, and I'm tired of the negativity. I want to like this book. I really liked the 1602 concept. But to me, it just doesn't stand up to the first two. Sorry I can't be more positive, but I have to be honest. And there's 2 more to go in this series. Aargghh!

Ultimate Fantastic Four #36 - Marvel

All I can say about this book, and I know it sounds cliche', but, FANTASTIC!!! This book is just incredible. The story that Mike Carey and Pasqual Ferry are putting together is just . . . . Brilliant!!! Again, what I love so much about this Ultimate universe, is that all our preconceived notions or ideas, are thrown out the window, and everything, and I do mean everything, is up for grabs. Most of the titles have decided to keep they're title characters pretty true to the original, with a few tweeks here and there, but then after that, anything can happen. And I love that about this book. It feels new and fresh again. We don't see the same old characters, coming back for the same old conflicts which inevitabley lead to the same old conclusions. Instead, things are fresh, new ideas are tried, and the Marvel Universe as we have come to know it, has been shaken and stirred. What a great concept, and each title in this Universe, with no exception, are Fantastic unto their own right. Whomever thought up this new approach to our favorite characters . . . . . . Thank You! Thank You!

Eternals #5 - Marvel

Pictured at the right is the John Romita Jr. cover for #5. I'm not, however, buying the alternate covers to this series as they are published in the "1 in 25" format. That means they are costing us $10 to $15 each, depending on what your retailer decides is best for him, or her. I have to say though, again with this issue, all props to John Romita Jr. for the fantastic work he's doing on this mini-series. As compared to one of my comments earlier, about a different mini-series, this one is definitely worth the money and effort. I say effort because, Neil Gaiman throws so much information and new ideas at you each issue, sometimes it's hard to keep up. I know that the artists, for the most part, get all the credit, but I'm here to tell you, there's only a handfull of writers out there, that could put together a story like this one, tying together all the history that's come before, and stay true to it, while giving it a modern spin and some fresh ideas. Neil Gaiman is definitely one of that handful of people. This is a story that makes you think, and educates you on the characters rich history at the same time. Also it takes everyday themes and incorporates them into the grand majesty of these cosmic beings, and their galaxy sized quests. But as brilliant as the story is, so to the art. John just does such a fantastic job with these epic storylines. I don't care if he never does a monthy book again, as long as he keeps putting out stuff like this. Sheer brilliance!!

Wolverine Origins #8 - Marvel

I still like this book, but I think I'm going to stop buying the alternate covers. They're getting kind of lame. And, I do realize they're just a marketing ploy to sell more copies. So I'm just going to pick out my favorite of the 2 each month, kind of like I do with all the Lady Death covers they keep putting out. Anyways, we're still on the Carbonadium storyline. Wolverine's trying to get a synthesizer for it, so it's not used as a weapon. Not to mention it is kind of his Kryptonite, since that's what Weapon X was using all those times to brainwash him. And also because he's found out he has a son, and he doesn't want anyone to use it on him, as it was used on himself in the past. But, Omega Red is also after it, I think, because he's dying and that's the only thing that can save him. In the process, Maverick and Jubillee have come back into the picture. And now he's put Jubillee in danger, as Omega Red has taken her. So, Logan is off to Berlin to try to get her back. If the future catches up to the present, as it often does, especially in this book, it looks like Sabretooth will be wrapped up in the mix pretty soon also. And on the final page, Logan is confronted by the Black Widow. Boy Wolvie sure has a complicated past. Good series though.

New X-Men #32 - Marvel

Ok, we're trying to pull a couple plot lines together with this issue. Wither, has gone to "Mutant Town", to try to get away from the whole scene at the school. He feels guilty for what he has done to Laurie. But, he doesn't know that Laurie, and Jay Guthrie, were killed anyways. He is being befriended by a woman, whom he doesn't know is a mutant, who has similar powers to his. Is it a coincidence that she has shown up when he needed a friend? Also, Emma has X-Factor keeping an eye on him for her. She just wants to make sure he's OK, and will come and get him, when he is ready. But, she may be to late, as at the end of this issue, after Kevin finds out the truth about Laurie and Jay, the Black Queen from the Hellfire Club shows up with an offer that Kevin may not be able to refuse. Hellion, is still recovering from his non stop flight back from Dallas. And it appears that X-23 is keeping an eye out for him. Or is she? Elixir is still trying to come to grips with his powers. He thought he was a healer, until he used his powers to kill Stryker. He then thought the healing part was gone. Until he used it again to heal Laura, X-23, last issue. Now he's confused, and wants to figure out exactly what his powers are. And, everyone comes together in this issue to say a final farewell to all their fallen comrades. Very sombre ending. But, hopefully an exciting beginning into their next chapter.

Ultimate X-Men #76 - Marvel

Again, hats off to www.milehighcomics.com. Thanks for the assist. Apparently, in the Ultimate universe, Cable is a future version of Wolverine, rather that being a future version of Cyclops. Which begs the question, "Who is Cable's mother?". Wolverine tries to gather up evidence, but when he tries he gets "Nothing! Absolutely nothing! All I can smell is myself." Before Cable departs though, he does abduct Jean though. But, we don't know what that's all about yet. We also get another future visitor, Bishop. He seems to be the leader of X-Force, in this universe, rather that Cable. Cable seems to be on a mission to take down the professor, again we don't know why yet, and Bishop is trying to stop him. But time travel, being what it is, he arrives shortly after him, rather than pre-empting his strike. Love this Ultimate Marvel Universe stuff. I like to see the normal everyday stuff that we take for granted, mixed and shaken up.

Batman and the Mad Monk #4 - DC

Sorry! Another less that stellar critique here, but, I'm just not satisfied with what I got out of this issue. Don't get me wrong. I like this story. I like what they're trying to do with this set of mini-series. And, I'm a big fan of Matt Wagner's. But, this particular issue just fell a bit short for me. I really like this "getting back to Batman's roots" thing. And I like seeing him when he wasn't the "Dark Knight", just "the Batman". I just felt like this was really a fill in issue. I didn't get much out of it. And, I feel, when the series is all said and done, that if you reread it and take this issue out, it won't make a bit of difference. But, that's just me. I mean, we learned a little bit about Commissioner Gordon this issue. Very little. And we're left with the old style Batman cliff hanger ending. But other than that, no substance for me. I'm sure this series will end with a bang, but this particular issue was definitely a whimper.

Martian Manhunter #4 - DC

I really do like this book. I find the Martain Manhunter complex, but intriging. I also really like the creative team. A.J.Lieberman writes some well thought out stories. They're intricate, detailed and flow very nicely. I also like Al Barrionuevo's artwork. Especially with Bit doing the inks. I really feel that each penciller has an inker that really compliments the work, like no other can. With Barrionuevo and Bit, I can see and feel what their hard work is trying to produce. I really liked this writer/artist team when they were on Gotham Knights. But I really feel like they've kicked it up a notch with this book. Now for the bad news. As much as I like it, I also have to say, it's just not a story that grips me. I want Jonn to be triumphant. But, I find it hard to buy in to, or really care about the rest of these Martian characters. The rest of the story, the plot line, the conflict, the antagonist and protagonist, I get. But, the only 2 characters that really interest me are Jonn and this Ms. Ferdinand. She's the one that seems to be out to get the Martians back, or kill them. She's the one that met with Alex, right before he was killed. But other than these two, the others are just smoke and dust floating around in our peripheral vision. Maybe next issue, when some of his JLA teammates show up, things will heat up a bit. And, I'm sure I'll keep buying the book until it's finish. Mainly just because I want to see how the story ends. But I'd really have a hard time recommending it to anyone else.

52 - Week Twenty Seven - DC

These J.G. Jones covers are awesome. How do they get this guy to put out such great covers week after week. Well, only 25 more weeks, and then you'll get a vacation. Which I'm sure all of the creators of this book will definitely need. Which includes Geoff Johns, Grant Morrison, Greg Rucka, Mark Waid, Keith Giffen and all the pencillers and inkers that have pitched in issue to issue. On a personal note, I think all of the above mentioned people's hard work has definitely paid off. Any future projects, by any company, attempted like this one, will definitely be compared to it. Props to you all! This issue starts out with Ralph Dibny on his quest to get his wife back. The helmet of fate is taking him through the different layers of the underworld, to help him find, and retrieve her. The current stop is with the Spectre. The Spectre won't help though unless Ralph allows the Spectre to use him as a host, and then to exact vengeance on his wife's killer, Jean Loring. Ralph really tries, but in the end he just can't do it. We also see Skeets coming after Waverider. Somehow Rip Hunter, Booster Gold, Time Commander, Waverider and the rest of the Time Masters are all tied in to this storyline with Skeets. We don't really know what he's after yet, but it seems to revolve around Rip Hunter. And finally we got the Question and Renee Montoya in Nada Parabat. They've hooked up with Tot and Richard Dragon. Apparently Charlie is dying of lung cancer, and, my guess, he's having Richard train Renee to take over for him. When all is said and done, I think she's going to be the new Question. Which is good, because the Question is a character that's been in limbo for way to long. And after Ralph's defeat with the Spectre, it appears he is heading for Nada Parabat also. I love this book.

JLA : Classified #29 - DC

Ok were still in international waters here. The JLA is undercover in some South American area. It's a place between two dung piles of countries, Del Canto and Santo Bertriza. It's a little strip of land between the two called La Cintura. But there's a new man in the mix now. The Dutch representative to the U.N., was the main driving force for keeping the JLA out of the skirmish. But there's a Dutch based company, with holding in both countries, and it's CEO is Schuyler Cristoffels. He's the one who appears to be behind everything. The JLA doesn't know that yet, but they will. Actually he's interested in La Cintura. Or more specifically, what's under La Cintura. That, we don't know what it is yet. However, Superman did make a trip underground, and he found some interesting stuff. But he hasn't pinpointed exactly what it is yet. Also, Bruce broke in to the computer banks of one of the countries, I don't think it really matters which one, because both there meta-human programs are being provided by an outside force. That's why the metas on both sides are so similar. They actually come from the same source, although both sides don't know that yet. And it seems that Schuyler is in the middle of all of it. Also in the skirmish in the last issue, Kyle and Diana were taken prisoners. They're each locked up in separate countries, and they're each trying to work on intel from the inside. Howard Chaykin writes this, and he's a master of the cloak and dagger stuff. Very good story. And with Kilian Plunkett doing the pencils, this book really has the feel of the Justice League Elite. Which by the way was a great series. Next issue it looks like all our participants are going to be captured.

Batman Strikes #27 - DC

Again a nice fun book. The only difference between this one and TTGo! and JLU is that on this one they're also trying to work in the many various aspects of the Batman / Bruce Wayne character. I mean think about it, Batman is one of the most complex characters out there. Sure there are copies or "wannabes", but this guys been around for almost 70 years. They have such an intricate web woven around this guy, that it would almost be impossible to write a story about him, without giving some kind of nod to some aspect of his supporting cast. Anyways, this story is about Catwoman. Well, at least for the kids, its a Batman & Catwoman comic. For the adults, its about the manager of Bruce's bank pilfering funds, and setting up the Catwoman to steal some diamonds for him. Of course Batman catches him, with some help from Alfred. And of course there's some chit chat, or flirting, going on between Batman and Catwoman. In the end, the good guy wins, the bad guy looses, and the woman in the gray area has a little fun and, maybe, gets away. It's just a fun book. Just like all the other Cartoon Network comics.

Tales of the Unexpected #2 - DC

I can't believe that they would only run this title for 8 issues. They have to have some kind of plan in mind for these characters after that. This book is way to good to let it fall by the wayside after that. I'm going to start with the backup story, "Dr. 13", by Brian Azzarello and Cliff Chiang. It's a great story, and really deserving of it's own title. My only concern is that it should be a Vertigo title so it can be done right. It's not a dark story, but, if it was to continue, it could certainly lead down that path, given the history and disposition of the participating characters. Something to think about. And of course you all know that I think Brian Azzarello is brilliant. So that's another plus. Now, on to the main story, the Spectre. David Lapham is writing a very intriguing take on the Spectre. I really like the dynamic between Crispus and our god of vengeance. And the art team of Eric Battle and Prentis Rollins is fantastic. I am a true believer that an inker can make or break an artist, and with that in mind, I think these 2 should work together forever. They compliment each other very well. Anyways, Spectre took out the killer of the slumlord last issue. However, he's still being draw to stay with the tenement for some reason. Apparently there's other stories going on here that he doesn't know about yet. One is a tragic love story that, in the end, Crispus uses his influence to get the Spectre to help. He feels really good about this. Which of course means everythings going to hit the fan next issue. Fantastic book. I really hope they have plans for it in the future.

Batman #658 - DC

To bad we can't chain Grant Morrison to a desk and have him write Batman for the rest of his life. But then we be depriving the rest of the comic industry of his brilliance. I know Ostrander and Mandrake are doing the next couple of issues. But then Grant's supposed to be back on board again, for a little while. But to defend him, he has got to be one of the hardest working writers in the industry right now. And probably one of the most sought after too. So, even having him on here for a few issues, is still a treat. Oh and did I forget to mention that Andy Kubert does his pencils? It's perfection! What else can I say? This one, kind of, wraps up the story of Batman's son. I say kind of, because, any story that involves Ra's al Gul, his daughter Talia, or now their son Damian, is never truly wrapped up. There's always plot threads dangling around out there. Well Damian's roughed up Robin and Alfred, so when Batman decides to go out and do something about Talia, he has to take Damian with him. Since Talia is on the other side of the world, he has to use the Bat-Rocket. My name not theirs. Anyways, the banter back and forth between these two is priceless. As they're blasting off Damian states, "You have a rocket." "I have lots of stuff nobody knows about.", is Batman's reply. Then as they're coming to the bottom of their arc, and jettison, Damian says, "I know everything about you." To which Batman replies, "You didn't know about the rocket." Anyways, there's a big battle on the Rock of Gibraltar. Batman takes down the "Man-Bats", Damian goes back to his mother, and the sub that they're on seems to be destroyed in the end. But as I said, the story never truly ends with these characters. I mean, this particular arc, goes all the way back to the "Son of the Demon" storyline. And next issue we have the Joker. Hoo-yah!!!

Superman #657 - DC

I hate to keep repeating myself, but this is another book that keeps exceeding my expectation. Kurt Busiek is currently writing this. And we all know how brilliant he is. Carlas Pacheco is on pencils. Another relatively new talent, that I swear gets better with every issue. There is some beautiful stuff in this book. Anyways, picking up from last issue, Arion has come into the future, obviously from the past, to warn Superman, that he's doing some stuff that's putting the world in danger. This issue, Arion gives Superman, and some of his colleagues, a vision of the future. A future that is being set in motion by Superman's current course of action. This particular issue puts me in mind of some of those old 70's issues. You know, the ones where they would do the stories in Superman's future. Where he lost his powers, gained extra powers, lived forever, whatever else. I used to love those stories. Well this is like those, except they're not imaginary or just a "what if?" story. This one is actual visions, and a possibility of what's in store for our characters. The problem is, we don't know specifically what it is that Superman is doing or not doing. Arion is being kinda' vague right now. All we do know is that is seems to be centered around a guy named Khyber. He seems to look alien. Almost like a cousin of Apokolips from the Marvelous competitors. Anyways, I guess he's in the world now, but everything he's been doing has been from "behind the curtain", so our heroes weren't aware of his involvement, or that he even existed. It's Superman and this Khyber's future battle, that sends the earth into a Nuclear Winter. This is turning out to be a pretty cool storyline. And we got the introduction of a new bad guy, Khyber. Apparently he's the baddest of the bad guys. And oh yeah, I had to borrow another cover from www.milehighcomics.com . Great guys. Check 'em out.

Green Lantern #14 - DC

This is another one of those books that just keeps getting better and better. To start with, we have an Ethan Van Shiver cover. Just spectacular. Geoff Johns is writing this title. He's a relative new comer to the comic scene, but he's adapting very well. I really like his stories. Then we have Ivan Reis an pencils. Did anybody notice how well his art looked when he was working for CHAOS? I remember picking up those Lady Death's and thinking, "Why isn't this guying working for one of the big guns?". Even back then, I could see brilliance in his work. Now that he's doing some big name titles for DC, and he has better inkers and colorists working with him, his stuff is just incredible. The title splash page, I wish I could turn into a painting for my wall. Then his full page Green Lantern on page 12, should be a poster. It's perfection. What I really like about his characters, is that they're full of emotions. And the way his story flows from panel to panel is brilliant. I really can't say enough about this guy. I think he's one of the hottest artists out there right now. But, back to the story. This is the first chapter of "Wanted: Hal Jordan". So it sets up our scenario. Which is that, during one of his missions, in the Air Force, he was shot down and became a POW, along with his 2 wing-men, Cowgirl and Rocket Man. For 3 or 4 months they were questioned and tortured. Hal didn't wear his ring on missions. Finally they broke out. Now, they've finally found the guys who did this to them, but Cowgirl has gone out solo. And she's been shot down. Well Hal decides to do it right, and goes out with ring in hand, to rescue her. But, he's being set up. As he tears through the camp, using non-lethal force, he comes across the main guy that was torturing them. He basically throws him through a wall, Hal comes out and the Global Guardians are waiting to arrest him. Apparently in his rampage, 2 dozen prisoners were killed. And they're blaming Hal. Of course we know, he's being set up by Abin Sur's son. But we don't know why yet. Brilliant book. Kyle is still my favorite GL, but I really dig this book.

Green Arrow #68 - DC

Another fantastic issue by Judd Winnick and Scott McDaniel. They have really taken this book by storm. This is one of my must read books every month now. The action is fantastic. The pace of the story is incredible. And the artwork and the flow, is smooth as butter. This wraps up the storyline where Ollie has gone to the island to relearn his skills. His final teacher was Natas, who also instructed Deathstroke. And his final test was Natas bringing the best hired assassins from all over the world to attack and try to kill him. But, the real test was how Ollie would handle it. Would he unleash all his new talent and cross the line to win the battle? Or would he somehow find a way to win, while staying true to his beliefs, his nature, and his principles? Actually . . . . . yes he would. First he traps all his teachers, and Conner and Mia in a cave. Then he takes on the whole lot on his own. It isn't until he face to face with the final combatant, the deadliest one, that they free themselves and come to his aid. Now he's heading home. Back to Star City to run for Mayor. But Connor and Mia have decided to stay behind, mostly to shelter Mia from the media attention that would be showered on her as an associate of Ollie's. Great book. I recommend this to everyone.

Stormwatch - Post Human Division #1 - Wildstorm

Cool book. And cool concept. Basically, Stormwatch is downsizing due to budget cuts. But, it still recognizes the need to have a system in place to handle meta-human incidents. And Jackson King is still going to play a major role in all this. This issue is basically about Jackson hand picking his team. A few weeks ago, NYPD aswered a simple squatting call, to an old abandoned theatre. It was anything but. It turned out it was a group of meta-humans meeting, under the guidance of Lord Defile, Slaughterhouse Smith and the Walking Ghost. Needless to say it turned into a bloodbath. "Over 400 people died that day, including a member of Stormwatch and 43 cops." With all of Stormwatch's budgets cuts impending, "we can take an innovative approach to post-human threats. Normal human operatives trained to combat post-human threats." King's new team consists of, so far, John Doran, the only cop to survive the incident, Lauren a.k.a. Fahrenheit, Dino Manolis the Machinist, Ms. Durst a.k.a. Georgeous, Elizabeth Rowan, Dr. Shaw a.k.a. the Monstosity, and Liam Mensdoza a Stormforce agent called "Paris". We get to see King's interaction with all of these people, and how they survived that day. So we kinda' get a feel for why he's picking them for the team. Next month, hopefully, we'll get to see what they can all do together.

Firestorm #31 - DC

We learn a lot this issue. But, not everything yet. And everyone is on hand to participate, Firestorm, Firehawk, Gehenna, Pohzar, Pionic Man, Tokomak and his "dollies". We learn that Tokamak was behind the whole thing. When the original Firestorm beat him the first time, he was left in a body riddled with radiation, and a destroyed immune system. So he started working on a cloning program. His clones were called "dollies". He did so repeatedly until he came up with the perfect body, at which time he transferred his consciousness into it. But he wasn't happy there, he wanted his powers back also. So he began arranging Nuclear "accidents" to test his "dollies". One of those "accidents" is the one that created the Pionic Man. Finally through one of the "accidents", he got his powers back. Gehenna is also one of his clones. Although she never knew it because he told her she was his daughter. In Firehawk's case, he was also the man that kidnapped, tortured, and turned her into Firehawk. His master plan is to create Nuclear "accidents" all over the world, with all the power and residue going into orbit to be collected into his giant "dollie" satellite. And then, have the power fed back into him. Making him, possibly, the most powerful man on the earth. Jason foils his plan though by separating him from his "dollie". But before he dies, he tells Jason that he knows why he is Firestorm, but with his death, Jason never will. Like I've told you before, Firestorm is one of my favorite characters, and I really have been extremely happy with this book so far.

Gen13 #2 - Wildstorm

First of all, with Gail Simone writing this book, I expect nothing short of perfection. And I am definitely not disappointed with this outing. Then, to put the thick cream cheese icing on the cake, Talent Caldwell and Matt Banning handle the art chores. Wildstorm is definitely setting this book up for success. We actually get to see the team in action this issue, sort of. They aren't really cohesive yet. And they're rather undisciplined. But, there is definitely the beacon of hope shining there. Lynch is also brought into the story this issue. When the kids are attempting to break out, IO calls him in to take them down, before the situation gets really out of control. They end up teleporting out, but not before Lynch shoots Roxy, and Roxy takes out his eye. Where have they 'ported to? It looks like the center of New York City. But, I could be wrong. This book definitely has the feel of the J. Scott Campbell stories. We all know those were the best. Hopefully this new title will stick around longer than the last incarnation.

Teen Titans #40 - DC

I love this book. Geoff Johns and Tony S. Daniel are doing such an awesome job with this. Raven stole something from the tower, and the Titans have been scouring the earth trying to find her, and it. Their recent attempt has put them in contact with Bombshell. She used to be called Captain Atom, until he actually came back. She's obviously trying to put a wedge in the group, as she's labeling everybody traitors, from Rose to Megan to Raven. She actually makes a convincing argument too. But when Rose goes back to the Titan Tower, she finds out what Raven has taken. With the help of Wendy and Marvin, we discovers that it wasn't actually the book that Raven was after, but rather what was in it, a computer disk. The disc contains the knowledge Raven needed to unlock Brother Blood's flesh ritual. Bombshell tries to stop her, but Rose arrives just in time to take her out of the fight. The real reason Raven was trying to perform Brother Blood's ritual, was to try to bring back Joey, Jericho. Like I said, this book is awesome. Fantastic cast of characters. And it's only going to get better. As, soon, this montage of characters is about to split apart and form Titan's East. Fantastic team book. I love it.

American Virgin #8 - Vertigo

I'm trying. I really am. I'll explain the story this issue, then I'll tell you how I feel about it. Adam, who's girlfriend was decapitated on the internet, has finally found the man responsible. In order to "hook up" with him, he has to play a role. His new friend Alexis, a transvestite, helped him find him and get close to him. He's in a gay club where anything goes. This guy likes it rough, and he likes 'em young. Adam is perfect for him. With a little primping, and some leather. Mel and Cyndi, Adam's sister, are watching out for him by serving as backup. Clauda, Mel's sister, is also on hand. She's a hardened dike who's falling hard for Cyndi. Adam, once down in the dungeon, is trying to fight back, but is also so distraught that he's seeing images of Cassie everywhere. Through their banter, the guy figures out who Adam is, and is going to kill him. However, with perfect timing, the police raid the club, and he slip out an exit before making good on his threat. As he's leaving he turns to Adam and says, "If I see you again? I will kill you, BEFORE I fuck you!". Somehow, they all make it out of the club, without getting arrested, except for Alexis who assault's an officer to help Adam escape. Adam also gets snapped by a paparazzi on the way out. When Moon, Adam's manager and publicist, finds out, he's ecstatic. "This is 100% mint gold in terms of booking you speaking tour . . . . . . I could kiss you." Ok, after writing that, I admit I'm starting to get a handle on the characters. 8 issues later. But the story just doesn't thrill me. The first 8 issues seem pretty single minded to me. I mean he's the head of a religion. A world wide speaker. The role model for millions of kids. I know he's distraught over Cassie, but there's got to be so much more going on in his life that trying to find this one guy. Yes it would be top of mind, but there should be some depth to the story. There should be more that just the one storyline. Some sub-plots. Some depth. Anyways, that's why I have a problem with this book. That, and I'm not thrilled about the art either. And, there's still one more issue for this arc.

Ex Machina #24 - Wildstorm

What do I like about this book? Besides the great set of characters? Besides the fantastic stories of Brian K Vaughan? Besides the always consistent art of Tony Harris? What I like about this book . . . . . . . is that it makes you think. It makes you think about stuff you didn't even realize you had an opinion on. Like, incarceration verses rehabilitation. When did you ever read a comic book that made you think about stuff like that? Or it makes you think about "Nature or Nurture?". Do people really have to be a product of their environment? Then, on top of all this philosophizing, we get a smart story, and a surprise ending. We know that January has been put in her position in city hall, because she blames Mayor Hundred for her sister's death. She's trying to push him in a direction that would discredit and humiliate him. What we didn't know, is that . . . . . . . . Kremlin is behind it. Say what? But that's where the betrayal always comes from, isn't it? Someone who's closest to you, and whom you least expect. That's what I truly like about this book.

Jonah Hex #13 - DC

This book has been both a boon and a burden to me. It's a boon, in that I get to read western stories in this day and age. Well written stories that really capture the feel of the era. The burden is that it's forced me to go looking for old issues of Jonah Hex, Weird Western and All-Star Western comics. No easy feat, some thirty years later. But, it's my curse. Ha-Ha! Not really. I put it on myself. I'm a completest. And when I start getting something I like, like this new series, I want to acquire and acquaint myself with what came before. But really, that's just an excuse for me to collect some more. This issue is the first of a 3 part, "Origin of Jonah Hex" story. All I can say is, it's about time. Everything we've come to know about his is either rumor, conjecture or urban myth. Take your pick. But now we're going to see where he really comes from, and why he does and acts the way he does. And this new series, definitely lives up to everything that's come before. They can definitely be proud of themselves. Thank-you!

Blue Beetle #8 - DC

I want to like this story. I really do. It's just . . . . . it's having a hard time keeping my interest. First, I really don't like the art. Maybe the style is trying to build something in the book, or a reflection of some . . . theme . . . . . I don't know. It's just not my cup of tea. And, I really can't see this book lasting much longer than say . . . . oh . . . . issue #20, maybe. Yes I believe that Jamie is the new Blue Beetle, and I'm glad to have him back. But . . . . . I don't know . . . . . . I'm just not buying in to the whole thing. But I'll tell you what's going on, so you'll know. Jamie and Brenda are off to find Dan Garrett. You know, the original Blue Beetle. Well, he's not around anymore, but his daughter is. And her name is also Dan, well . . . . actually Danielle. They're hoping that maybe she can give them some answers as to what this whole blue scarab thing is. Also, the new Peacemaker is along for the ride. They don't end up learning much, other than the lineage of the Blue Beetle. The whole Dan Garrett, to Ted Kord, to Jamie Reyes thing. And it seems like the scarab has acted differently with each recipient. They also have this monster thing chasing them. He keeps saying that the Beetle is the angel heralding the beginning of Armageddon. Also he's huge, powerful and apparently can't be killed. They do however subdue him. They leave with all the documentation Dan, Danielle, will give them, and move on to the next part of their adventure, finding out about Peacemaker. I really think a change in the art would help, but they also need to quit dragging out this story. I don't really care who or what he is. I just want him to move on to some real adventures.

the All New Atom #5 - DC

Ok, with this issue, we have a name for our "Anti-Atom". His civilian name is Mr. Rundine, and he goes by "Dwarfstar". How he got, and seems to mimic the Atom's power . . . . . . is still a mystery. We also find out that Dean Mayland, is in on the conspiracy also. In fact, he may be the ringleader. But Ryan has more things to worry about. First Dean Mayland called Ryan's father in, from Hong Kong, to try to talk him out of the whole Atom thing. Probably because he knows that eventually he'll get in his way. Well then we still have the microscopic aliens that are living on Ryan's dog, Copernicus. They're getting ready to invade Ivytown. And they're going to start with Ryan, because they think he's the only one that could cause them any problem. Then there's the sewer god, M'nagalah. Apparently he, it (?), is also ready to fight the Prater, and wants Ryan to fight by it's side. Then there's all the stuff going on with Ryan and his other scientist buddies. With Ryan's help they've a singularity field generator, that is powered off of Ryan's belt. It'll help with his environment, and his stability, when size changing. Also the piece of alien technology that Ryan brought up with him, the bangstick, powered by the alien engine that he found. And not to mention that all these scientists will also be in harms way if the Dean finds out that they're helping Ryan. Man, talk about a lot of stuff going on in 1 issue. Gail Simone is pulling us in head first, and isn't allowing us to come up for air. She's awesome! Did I mention that I'm glad John Byrne isn't on the book anymore? Anyways, this is an awesome book and it's only going to get better.

Midnighter #1 - Wildstorm

In this book we get to see the Midnighter for who he really is . . . . . . . a cold hearted bastard. He's not the "teammate" of the Authority that everyone thinks he is. And he's definitely not the warm fuzzy guy that he appears to be when he's with Apollo. Which also makes me wonder if Apollo even knows his true nature. No he's a cold hearted prick with ice running through his veins. Since the Authority has seen less action of late, he also goes out solo, to any hot spot on the world, just for shits and giggles, and a little murder and mayhem. It's how he gets his impulses out of his system. But, on his most recent trip, somebody has bushwhacked him when he tries to use a door, in the space between where he enters and where he exits. While he's out, they install a bomb in his chest, and remove his ability to see his opponents first move. Right now he looks completely vulnerable, but me, I think he's just waiting and trying to size up his opponent. He'll strike when it's prudent. Plus I think he really just wants to know why they decided to do this to him. Which doesn't take long, because they finally tell him that they want to hire him to kill Adolph Hitler. And that's where the issue ends. Chris Sprouse does the art, which is ok. It's not my favorite. But, I'll give it a couple issue before I judge on how he does for the feel of this book. Garth Ennis is the author. And as you all know, I think he is brilliant. I've been an Authority fan ever since the beginning, so this book really intrigues me. Here's hoping that it lives up to it's lineage.

Mystery in Space #3 - DC

Jim Starlin is back with a vengeance. This book is incredible. Both the stories, Captain Comet, actually just Comet now, and the Weird, are fantastic science fiction adventures. Shane Davis does the pencilling on the title story, which is breathtaking, and Jim Starlin does all the writing and art chores on the backup. The Comet story is a science fiction murder mystery, with a twist. And the Weird, in just something else entirely. In the first issue, Comet died. When he was resurrected, he was 40 years younger. But still had all his memories and knowledge. Isn't that every middle aged mans wet dream. He then saw his friend, Star Hawkins killed, with the only clue being "YOU" scrawled in blood. He also found out he has a new power, teleportation. The only downside is that, he has to power back up in between jumps. So depending on how far the jump is, fluctuates how long it will take him to recharge. The last jump he makes is to a comet outside of Hardcore Station, which he now appears to be stuck on, because he doesn't know how long it will take him to recharge. And he can't just fly off because he has no oxygen, and . . . . . he doesn't really know where he's at. In the Weird, Deacon Dark, is trying to bring the Weird over to his religion, brainwashing really, because he sees the potential in him. Intellectually, he wants to convert, but his body and his powers seem to be overriding his judgement, making it a little difficult for Deacon Dark. But, by the final panel, he succumbs, and shouts out "I BELIEVE!!". Both these stories really leave you hanging, and begging for more. But that's Jim's style. I recommend this book to everyone!