Crime Bible : The Five Lessons of Blood#1 - DC

This book is going to be hard for me to describe, because I'm having a hard time getting the gist of just what exactly is going on here. Apparently this Crime Bible has been around for quite a while. But, there's only supposed to be three copies in existence, " . . the Prophet's Codex, the Sana'a edition, and the high madame's binding" But this Professor, Stanton T Carlyle, has put out a book about it, where he describes the bible in pretty accurate detail. It's called, A Blasphemous Mythology: the Religion of Crime. Because of that, someone is questioning his motives. Apparently it's the Question, who according to prophesy plays some kind of role in everything that this crime bible is attempting to bring about. "You publish a book pretending to debunk the religion of crime . . . but really it's a means to introduce key passages of the black book to the widest possible audience. Of course a little scandal would help that along nicely . . . like the murder of your wife and your son by adherents angry at you for spilling their secrets. The scissors are a nice touch. Several of Peter Kurten's victims were stabbed to death with scissors, weren't they? And whatever happens . . if you're caught, if you blame it on the religion . . the scandal alone sells a couple million extra copies. That's a lot of people learning the vile word without even knowing it." But the one thing she's got wrong, that's explained to her by one of the Order of the Stone that tries to prevent her intervention in their plans, is that it wasn't Stanton that was going to kill his wife. It was his wife, Giselle, that would prove to be the murderer. And after she kills Stanton, she goes after her son. But the Question is quick enough to stop that from happening. So now, after rereading it, and commenting on it, I think this is more a book about the Question, with the Crime Bible as the motivation. Which is good, because we haven't seen her since the end of 52. It's indeed an interesting book, by Greg Rucka. Really my only complaint is in their pick for artist . . Tom Mandrake. And really that complaint is just a personal preference. Tom's a good artist. And over the course of this book, there are some panels that are beautiful. But, there's more panels that are just . . . . muddy. I just don't really like the way he does his inks and shading. But, like I said, that's just my preference. As far as the book goes, this is just the first issue, so I'll have to save my opinion for a few more installments. But it's a decent start.

the Trials of SHAZAM! #9 - DC

This is another chapter of Freddy's saga. Judd Winick is doing a great job with this story. But actually, I would expect nothing less. I do have a sad confession to make about this book though. I am a huge Howard Porter fan. I've liked him even before the JLA became hip. His stuff way back on the Ray, I thought, was fantastic. Especially for somebody following up on Joe Quesada's mini series. Then I really dug his stuff on the JLA, and also his different style in the beginning of this series. But now, this series, has garnered a new artist in Mauro Cascioli. And, while I'm sad to see that Howard is no longer on this series, I have to say, Mauro's work is simply amazing. Think Adam Hughes, crossed with Simon Bisley. I even think the work in this book is better than Ariel Olivetti's. That's my opinion. You may not agree with me. But, I think, if you can pick this up and read it, I think you'll be equally impressed. Anyways, last issue, Atlas died. I'm not really sure how a god can die . . . but he did. So Billy is shouldering his burden, literally, until Freddy can convince Apollo to take over for him. But Apollo has become happy in his new role in the human world. He's a husband, a father and a healer . . in the form of a doctor. But he hadn't realized, when he reverted to his godly form, to battle Freddy, all of that disappeared. "You've sired children as a man, now you've become a god again. They're gone. Magic has righted itself. It's as if . . . it's like you never existed as a mortal." And Apollo's pissed. So he takes a stand. "I want my life back. Find another to stand in my place and you can have all of my gift. For now, as a reminder . . . as a marker on your debt . . . half of my gift will go to another." So now half of his power has gone to Sabina. And as Sabina feels the surge of power, she says "Is it me, or did everything just get a lot more interesting?" This was already a good series, with a great story. But now, with the addition of Cascioli on art, Sabina's words were never more accurate. Even if she is a bad-guy . . . or girl.

Supergirl and the Legion of Super-heroes #35 - DC

I really like what Tony Bedard and Dennis Calero are doing with this book. My only problem is . . . and it's really just my problem . . . but I can't help but feel that all of this is moot. Jim Shooter's going to be taking over this book pretty soon, and I just don't see what the point of all of this is. But like I said, that's just me. I need to enjoy the moment. I need to enjoy the current story-line. But, I tend to be a person that looks ahead. I do the same thing when I'm reading the books. I read some, look ahead, and then read some more. Especially if I know that it has some type of dramatic, or cliff-hanger, ending. I spoil it for myself every time. I guess it's just a flaw in my character. Anyways, with this book, we're still on the hunt for Cosmic Boy. But I get the feeling that Brainiac 5 knew exactly what he was doing when he split the group in to these smaller teams, and what they were going to be facing. I think he knows exactly where Cosmic Boy is, but he's keeping everyone busy in the meantime. . . for some reason. But as with most things involving Brainiac, you never really know, or get the grand scope of, his intentions, until all has been said and done. When you look back, it all makes sense. But in the moment . . . he's always suspect. Such as Timber Wolf, Atom Girl or Shadow Lass when them come in to confrontation with Starfire on Lallor. He knew exactly what he was doing. And, how could he accidentally stumble across a assassination attempt on the President? Then we have Supergirl, Lightning Lad and Saturn Girl running in to some type of evolved humanoid in the Gobi rain-forest. Actually it kind of surprises me that we still have a rain-forest in the 31st century. Anyways, this guy reverts to his caveman form for physical confrontation. We don't know the full extent of this story, but I'm sure we'll find out more next issue. And finally, Brainiac seems to have some type of plan going for incursion back into the 21st century. Does this have something to do with the Lightning Lad storyline that ran through the JLA? Or maybe the current storyline running through Action? Either way . . the Legion seems to be all over the place right now. And Starfire . . . who's actually called ERG 1 right now . . . has something to do with next issue's story. So apparently, Shadow Lass' team was sent there specifically to recruit him. Like I said, schemes within schemes. But overall, I thought it was a good book. It's got a great story-line, and superb art.

Batman #670 - DC

Uh-oh! We got another Batman classic in the making. You better jump on it while you can. And this one . . . this is actually just a prelude. The premise is . . Ra's al Ghul is trying to come back . . . again. And they've given this historic storyline to Grant Morrison to script. You just know that it's going to be wild. Grant's one that's known for working a story from different angles anyways. But with this one, the possibilities for him . . . I'm willing to bet . . . are staggering. He has such a rich story to work from here. Also some things that haven't truly been defined through the years. So I'm guessing, without a doubt, that he's going to come up with something that's utterly amazing. Also, to drive that point home, Tony S Daniel is the penciller. There already is a vast comic library of his work. But now? Now he's going to add an historic Batman story-line to his resume. Simply fantastic. We don't know all the specifics of the story yet, but, Ra's appears to be back in a mummy like form. Talia is also here, of course. She's been raising Damian, she thought, to assume Ra's mantle. But it looks like his purposes are going to be a little more literal. I believe that Ra's wants to transfer his consciousness in to the child. I think he wants him to be his literal successor. But Damian has grown pretty strong in spirit, and isn't to keen on giving up his body to this . . . . mummy. Also Batman gets his first hints as to Ra's plans. He doesn't know what's all entailed . . as far as Talia and Damian go . . but he does find out that he's looking for a comeback. This story-line will be crossing over in to all the Batman titles this month. From here we go straight to Robin, where Damian will confront Tim. Through this issue, Damian has been wearing the Robin outfit the whole time. I'm serious. If you don't pick up any of the Batman titles . . . this is the story-line to get. And you better get it while you can.

Justice Society of America #10 - DC

Now this book? This book is just incredible. Geoff Johns is doing a brilliant job with these stories. The detail he puts in to them is astounding. And the realism, and strength of character that he puts in to all of these individuals, really sets him apart from some of the other story-tellers out there. DC really pulled a major coup when they signed Geoff up. I just hope he stays on this book for . . . . well . . . as long as they'll let him. And who would've ever thought that Dale Eaglesham would be drawing one of the hottest books out there? I mean I knew the guy was talented, but . . . on this book . . . it's insane how good the artwork is that he's turning in. Of all the artists out there . . and there's an awful lot of notable names . . . I can't think of anybody I'd rather have on this book right now. His storytelling abilities have reaching a completely different level with his current body of work. And while I'm thinking about it, I just want to say . . . Thank You! . . . to both of these guys. Thank you for giving us something to look forward to every month. Now, as you can see from the cover, the Kingdom Come version of Superman has come to our reality. How and why? We don't really know yet. But, Starman recognizes him, because he spent some time in that reality. The problem that Superman is having, is that it's hard for him to accept a reality where the hero's are still on the side of the angels. In his Kingdom Come reality, they pretty much all went rogue. So he's having a hard time accepting at face value these hero's altruistic intentions. Plus he already saw most of them die. And to be honest, these heroes don't really know what to make of him either. It isn't until it seems like he's trying to break out and make a run for it, but ends up saving a girl jumper several blocks away, that they realize he's actually who he says he is. He's gently holding the girl in his arms, and he says to her "Giving up never helped anyone, miss. Trust me on that." We then have a couple of story-lines building at the end of the issue. First of all Wally and Jay have gone to the Flash museum to dig out the cosmic treadmill. But he doesn't want it for the reasons Wally thinks. "I'm not talking about time travel, Wally. I'm talking about altering our vibrational frequencies. I'm talking about traveling to a parallel Earth." Secondly, someone is chasing Chroma through the sewers of Metropolis. Whomever it is, calls Chroma a pretender, and himself a god. Rather ominous I would say. And finally, as we wrap up this issue, the Justice League has arrived at the JSA headquarters, with I'm sure a lot of questions for Superman from . . . well . . . . Superman. This is easily one of the top 5 books on the stands right now. I can't wait to read it every month.

Spawn #172 - Image

I have to say, I really like the new direction that Spawn has been taking. I think David Hine has been doing a great job with the stories, and I really like the pencils of Brian Haberlin. I wasn't sure at first. But, the more issues he does, the more awesome I think he is. This one's purpose is mainly to fill us in on the back-story behind Al and his brothers. Brothers? Who knew? Here we are almost 200 issues in to this series, and we just find out that he had 2 brothers. Al was the middle child. Marc was the oldest, and Richie was the youngest. Come to find out, the devil . . or as he called himself back then, Mr. Malefick . . . has been involved in Al's life for a very long time. Actually since Al was like 6 or 7. He inserted himself in to the Simmons household, as a friend of their mothers, that would always show up, and stay over, when their father was out of town. From there, he gradually influenced their actions. He pushed Richie in to drugs. And he pushed Al into being the uncaring, unfeeling person that he became when he joined the service. And then he pushed Richie and Al in to killing a drug dealer, thereby sealing the deal with their souls. We haven't got the full extent of the story yet. I think there's going to be some more next issue. But the whole thing stems from the "hell-house" that the Ab & Zab made with the Sin-eaters. Spawn found a preacher in one room facing his sin, the death of a drug dealer. It turns out that it's his brother, and all these memories came flooding back in to him. We also find out this issue, that Al's mother and father have been trapped in their house. Actually Malefick cast a spell over them and they can never leave. She can walk out in to her yard, and see the outside world, but no one can see or hear her. Her picket fence marks the boundary of her world. Now . . . . totally off subject . . . did anyone catch the episode of Numbers last night on CBS? It was the one about the rare comic book. The creator of the comic book, to me, seemed like a take on Jack Kirby. And the antagonist in the story . . . a rich creator who sold his character to TV and the movies . . . came across, to me, to be modeled after . . . . well . . . . I'll let you draw the inference. But I, as well as I'm sure many fans, picked up on that parallel real fast. I could be wrong. But it was a really good episode. And I think it actually shed a good light on collectors. I don't feel that it diminished our hobby at all. Which is usually the case in these types of stories.

New X-Men #43 - Marvel

The biggest problem I have with my blogs is that I get to far ahead in my reading, and then when I go to write my comments, it's not as fresh in my mind about what happened in a particular issue. I'm finding that I have certain books, in which the story, words and art, really stick out in my mind. But then I have other books that, I've read them but, they're all kind of a blur. This, really, is the basis behind my picking out what I really like . . . and what's just minutiae. This book is one of the later. Don't get me wrong, I'm a huge X-Men fan. If you follow me at all, you've seen that I've read pretty much every X-book there is out there. Well, except for Cable/Deadpool. But I'm working on that one on E-bay. And I really like these particular characters. However, it's not a book that really excites me. It does in a way that I know I'm reading about the next generation of X-Men. Much in the same way when I used to read the New-Mutants book. Not the previous version of this book, but the original. And now we see Sam and Rahne and Danielle all mixed in with the regular X-Men teams. I know that some of these characters will be there someday. But right now, the book just doesn't really jump out and grab me. Right now, because of the whole thing with the Purifiers, the Predator-X threat out there, their recent trip and transition in Limbo, Josh's powers and role on this team going up and down, the Cuckoo's amping up David's role a bit and the senior team evaluating all the students and putting them in actual X-Men uniforms, there's a lot going on. And it's keeping me interested. But I don't find it . . exciting. I feel like the whole team, really, is being transitioned. But . . transitioned to what? I want to get excited about this book. I really do. And, hopefully, soon . . . I will.

American Virgin #20 - Vertigo

Steven T Seagle has been the writer throughout this series. Becky Cloonan does the art on this issue, and most of the previous ones. She's only had a few fill-ins so far. I think. This issue, Adam has come home, from his "round-the-world" trip, with Vanessa. He was told in a vision . . . quite a while ago now . . . that his true love would be at this beauty pageant that he was guest judge at. That's where he met Cassie. But . . . now she's dead. She was doing some volunteer work in Africa, and was abducted. To make an example of her, they killed her on the internet. Which leads to him starting to question the vision. His best guess is that he picked the wrong girl. So he got a list of the other contestants and starting checking them out. That's how he met Vanessa. On a whim, he decided to go on a trip around the world with her. Just kind of "seat of your pants" type thing. Getting transportation however they could, and staying in hostel's and such. During that trip, they fell in love with each other. And got married. Now he's come home to tell his parents, Mamie and Earl what's happened. As expected, Mamie freaks. As does his publicist, Moon. Mamie wants an immediate annulment. Moon just wants him to not talk about it, until he can figure out what kind of spin to put on it. Basically, he's messing with more than just his own livelihood here. In the middle of all this, his step-brothers, who have been helping him find the other girls, inform him that they have found his real dad. He's in Cuba. Adam immediately wants to head there, but Mamie has other plans. First she wants the whole wedding thing taken care of. After which, she'll allow him to go, as long as she comes along. It took a while for me to get into the story, with these characters. But now, I finally think I'm getting a handle on it all. And honestly, it's just one big soap-opera. I like it more than I did when I first picked it up. Except we had the Quitely covers back then. But it's still not my cup of tea. I keep reading it, hoping that something in it will grab me. But, so far it hasn't. I don't think I'm going to be sticking with this one to much longer.

X-Men : Messiah Complex - Chapter One - Marvel

It's finally here. The big mutant story of the summer . . . er winter . . . or actually I guess of the year. Yeah that's it. The big mutant story of the year. It comes in with a bang. I'll give it that much. I'm sure you all remember, since M-day, there have been no "new" mutants. If fact if anything, their numbers are dwindling. Over in New X-men last month, the kids were arguing about who the youngest mutant was. Why? Because they figured that would be the next one to be killed. So Charles is performing his customary scan with Cerebra, I guess just to double check to make sure nothings changed. All of the sudden . . . BANG!! Something registers so strong that it blows out the whole Cerebra system. Charles has no idea what it is, all he knows it that it's coming from Cooperstown Alaska. So he has Scott assemble a strike team, and they head out immediately. It consists of most of the senior members actually. Scott, Emma, Logan, Kurt and Warren are all surprised, when they get to Cooperstown, with what they're confronted with. It looks like a war zone. It literally looks like someone came through the town and laid waste to the whole place. They find survivors, but they're all adults. There's no live children to be found. They find a couple deceased members of the Marauders, Blockbuster and Prism. And they also find some dead purifiers. Upon examination, it appears that the epicenter of the battle comes from the town hospital. Or more specifically, the Maternity ward. The records show that there were 3 babies born here the night before. But there's only 2 baby corpses in the birthing unit. So they have to assume that the Marauders retrieved him or her, and it is now in the possession of Mr. Sinister. That's a pretty disturbing realization. And, to add even more to the madness, shortly after they leave Predator X shows up. It sensed the new mutants birth, and traveled hundreds of miles . . . . to eat it. The first chapter is brought to us by Ed Brubaker and Marc Silvestri. Also with a myriad of Marvel and Top Cow talent. I really hope this story lives up to it's hype. I was pretty let down by the whole Endangered Species story-line. However, I'm sure, some of what Hank did learn will spill over in to this story. I just hope that this one comes to some kind of resolution. But I would still, definitely, recommend the book. It's great to see Marc back in the fold again.

Jack of Fables #16- Vertigo

I really like this book. I just have a hard time describing it. Bill Willingham is really . . . out there. Well . . maybe not him specifically. But . . when he writes these stories . . wow . . he's all over the board. I think this months cover, by Brian Bolland though is fantastic. What more could you ask for, for the week of Halloween? This issue we have a story weaved by Jack himself. He tells of how he came across the devil one day, trapped in a tree, and how he offered him a boon if he helped him escape. "I promise that hell will never let you enter it's sulfurous gates . . . no matter what evil deeds you do in life." So he takes him up on his offer. He was already a mischievous fellow, so a get out of hell free card was just what he needed. However, as with all deals with the devil, it's what he didn't say that's important. He never promised him he'd get in to heaven. Just that he wouldn't have to live in hell. So he travels back to the land of the living, and on the way he has an epiphany. "What if there was more than one actual version of the devil? I'd only made a deal with one of the." So he goes looking for others. With each one, he ups the deal. "Once I was even ahead 537 years, before one of my deals fell through." At which point he tells Gary that his current deal is about to run it's course, and that he needs to find a new version to talk to. And that's what I'm talking about. Where oh where does Bill come up with these ideas? I know the guys brilliant. But . . wow . . his thought process is out there. Well, however he does it, it's very entertaining. And that's all we can ask of this medium. Right?

the Death of the New Gods #2 - DC

Another fantastic story-line and book. If you haven't seen Jim Starlin's work in a while, you kind of forget just how good the guy really is. Well I'm here to tell you, this guy is brilliant. Fantastic story and art. I'm sure Matt Banning's inks help, but still it's a beautiful piece of work. We're coming at this story from several different angles. First we have the New Genesis side of things. They're trying to figure out what's going on and why such a large number of their young gods are coming up dead. Actually, they don't know how or who. Their first assumption is that it's Darkseid, but luckily there's some level heads that prevail in their analysis and planning. If it was up to Orion, he's just go straight to Apokolips and start "chewing gum and kicking ass". We also see the story from our Earth's point of view. After all there are quite a few that have taken up residency here. Specifically Mister Miracle who is distraught over the murder of his wife Big Barda. So the Justice League has shown up to try to help figure this out. Their working the angle from our planet, but Superman has gone to New Genesis with Scott for Barda's funeral. But Apokolips is having just as much trouble as New Genesis hanging on to their people. Big Barda after all was from Apokolips. And we find out this issue that Desaad's replacement, Justeen, has also been killed. So whoever's doing this doesn't appear to be taking sides, as far as New Genesis and Apokolips is concerned. For some reason when Superman and Scott show up, it really sets off Orion. There's a big battle between the two powerhouses, and Metron has to step between them to be the voice of reason. After Barda's funeral, Himon and Takion go to the wall for clues. But what they notice there is a second wall. "By the stars, Himon! Don't you understand what we are looking at?! Gaze upon our fallen comrades! These are all the victims of our mysterious assassin! This is the killer's trophy wall!" So whoever is doing these killings seems to be tearing down the Fourth World from both sides. They're powerful enough to get to these people, and they're powerful enough to kill them. Scott was just in the other room when it happened to Barda, and he didn't hear a thing. And we're still no closer to finding out who's doing it. I can't overstate how incredible of a job Jim Starlin has done on this book. It really is amazing. We're only on issue #2, so there's still time to get caught up.

Countdown Presents - Lord Havok and the Extremists #1 - DC

If you've already read Countdown #29, you know who the Extremists are, and how the Challengers visit to their world ends up. But if not . . . this book is a fantastic introduction. This issue actually starts about 6 years ago, and gives us a little history on Lord Havok's world. We learn who his Extremists are, Gorgon, Dr. Diehard, Dreamslayer and Tracer. This is a world much like that of DC's Marvelous competitors, after the Civil War. There's been a Metahuman Act passed, and during the recent Presidential election, the candidate for the First Metahuman Presidential Ticket was elected. Tin Man, with Americommando as his running mate. The Metahuman Act was an act that not only required that all Metahumans would have to be registered and legalized, but also that they would operate as one unifying force . . . the Meta-Militia. And of course that force works for the government. When passing the act, what they failed to mention was that non-compliance would result in arrests, concentration camps and often death. Which is where Havok and his Extremists come in. They consider themselves officially at war with the government. To that point, Lord Havok kills the President when he is making a speech on television. "You all know me as Lord Havok, Tin Man was but the first. From this moment forth, my fellow Extremists and I will eliminate every tyrannical imbecile foolish enough to accept the mantle of President. They will call us criminals for this. They will label us terrorists for this. But please keep this in mind . . . one man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter. And whether you are aware of it yet or not . . . we are your freedom fighters." So, seeing the story from their side now, when the Challengers land in Lord Havok's castle, he thinks that they are the beginnings of Americommando's invasion force. So, in order to read this properly, you should read this issue, then Countdown #29, and then back to this book for issue #2. Fantastic story by Frank Tieri. And it's brilliantly drawn by Liam Sharp. I've been a huge fan of Liam's ever since I first saw his work. I can't believe he's going to be back on a monthly title, and for DC. It's amazing. For that reason alone I was more that willing to give this book a chance. After reading the first issue, it certainly didn't let me down. My only comment is that they didn't put the world symbol on the front cover. You know. Like they're doing on Countdown. If I remember right from Countdown, this is Earth 8. I know. A minor complaint.

52 Aftermath - the Four Horsemen #3 - DC

We start out this cover with this beautiful Ethan Van Sciver version of Wonder Woman. Hubba-hubba! Even if she is covered with locusts. Anyways, our dynamic trio are still in Bialya trying to figure out what to do about the Horsemen. They're trying to figure out a way to get rid of them, without attacking them directly. It's bad enough that they're camped out in this country, but they don't want to give them the chance to move beyond it's borders. They've also formed a temporary alliance with Dr. Cale, back on Oolong island. Since they were the ones that brought them here, they may also be the only hope of getting rid of them. Any technology that can is found, or can be salvaged, is being taken there for analysis. Most of it's Apololyptan, so they might be able to use or salvage parts. Mr. Terrific is also there helping Dr. Cale. Snapper Carr also shows up this issue. He is also in Bialya, and has been working with CheckMate the last couple of years to spy on the super-heroes. Our trio isn't to happy about that, but, he does have good intel. It appears by the end of this issue, that the Horsemen have re-assembled themselves enough to have some mobility. And it appears that their first target is Oolong island. Wonder Woman flies through a dust cloud only to find herself instantly transported to the island. But when she looks behind her, she's being followed by an army of undead. Keith Giffen writes this story, with Pat Olliffe doing the pencils. Overall I though it was a decent book. My only problem with it is that I think there's really only one way out of this mess. They somehow have to send the Horsemen back to Apokolips. I mean, I can't imagine that they can be killed. And if they somehow dis-assemble them, well obviously they can reverse that outcome. So the only solution is going to be to get them off planet. And the logical choice there, is to send them back where they came from. So, to me, it appears as if there's only one solution. The question is, how are they going to reach that conclusion?

Superman Confidential #8 - DC

With all the important story-lines going on with the New Gods, and Darkseid, lately, I guess the powers that be decided that we needed to know how Superman met up with all these fellows in the first place. This issue shows how he first met up with the Forever People, and then through his ordeal with them . . . Darkseid. This was back when Darkseid was still trying to assemble the anti-life equation, so he had captured Beautiful Dreamer. She could lock in to the consciousness of all the natives on earth, and then she would look to see if any of them were hiding part of the equation. Anyways, when the Forever People boomed out to get her, Superman followed. And it's a good thing he did, because he was the one that saved Dreamer. Apparently that was also Darkseid's first realization of Superman's existence. But after all is said and done with the Forever People, and they head back home to New Genesis, another boom-tube opens up. This one has Arion looking for Superman. This was a nice story by Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning. Chris Batista and Cam Smith do the art and the cover. I'm just wondering, back in the late 60's, early 70's, when Jack Kirby created these characters, whose idea was it to put Darkseid in these thigh-high books, and the uniform that looks like a smock? Just wondering. I would never question the King's creative abilities, it's just that they seem kind of . . . . dated, now. Don't get me wrong, I loved the story and the characters. It's just one of those things that runs through your head every now and then.

Robin Annual #7 - DC

I guess we're on the Halloween theme here. Robin, and Harvey Bullock, have run across a gruesome murder. Harvey calls the perp the Great Pumpkin, since it occurs on the eve of Devil's night. One of the things I really like about the Robin book, and it carries over in to this issue, is the way they intertwine his role as Robin with his role as Tim Drake. Yes they're two separate identities, but unlike most people in costume, I really don't think he sees it that way. He sees himself as Tim Drake, and then Robin is just an extension of who he is, not a separate identity. He's very level headed. So in his book, the scenes of him in either role are always very connected and not separate story-lines. I also like that it seems as if he's back with Zoanne now. I hope that this is a look at things to come, because in his solo book, I don't think they've reached that point yet. Anyways, long story short, it ends up being a family that's been trained to be serial killers. The daughter has killed the father and her uncle, to increase her body count, and impress her mother. It's occurred to her that if she kills everyone else that she's competing with, then her mother will have to acknowledge that she's the best, and she alone will then garner all of her love. Pretty twisted, I know. We get this part of the story, but Robin doesn't know it yet. Anyways, the only other competition she has is her brother. But Robin comes busting in just as she's about the cap off her list. Or course she escapes, tells Robin he'll see her next Halloween, and that he should call her Scary Mary. What he doesn't know is that the boy he just saved is also a serial killer. So I'm sure this isn't the last we've seen of this Rockwellian family unit. This story was brought to us by Keith Champagne and Derec Donovan. There's also a back-up story. Kind of a prequel, if you will, to the Resurrection of Ra's al Ghul story-line, that'll be starting up in Batman this week. Basically it's someone that's testing Damian. I'm just guessing here, but I think he's been bred to be the vessel for Ra's return. So whoever it is, has to make sure he's up to the task. It's also written by Keith, but the artwork shows the return of Jason Pearson. A guy with incredible talent that hasn't been used in books nearly enough. If you haven't read Body Bags, by Dark Horse, you simply must go out and pick it up. Anyways, I hope that this means we'll be seeing more of his work.

DC Infinite Halloween Special #1 - DC

Oh my gosh, what a treasure this book is. For a one-shot, they really filled this book with a lot of talent. The premise is that the villains of Arkham have staged a coup. However, they can't leave because once they breach the outer doors, all the alarms in the place will go off. So they're going to wait for midnight, when the guards change shifts, and wait for them to open the doors for them. In the meantime, Joker has them telling each other scary stories. It is Halloween after all. The whole book is framed by an opening and closing chapter that is brilliantly drawn by Trevor Hairsine. The authors on this book include, Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning, Paul Dini, David Arquette & Cliff Dorfman, Peter Johnson & Matt Cherniss, Marc Bernardin & Adam Freeman, Tony Bedard, Peter Tomasi, Jon Bogdanove, Steve Niles, Steve Seagle, Mark Waid and Dan Didio. And the artistic talent includes Trevor Hairsine, Dustin Nguyen, Bernard Chang, Kelley Jones, Eric Battle, Sebastian Fiumara, Peter Snejbjerg, Jon Bogdanove, Dean Ormston, John Paul Leon, Ryan Sook, Tony S Daniel, Ian Churchill and Gene Ha. Seriously, for a 1 shot, that people would probably buy anyways, this book is really loaded. There's also some hints about some story-lines that may open up in some of the main books. There may be a new vigilante group in Gotham called the Watchdogs. You get to see them here first. There's a hint of a Red Rain story that may be related to the one that will be appearing in the Search for Ray Palmer. An Aquaman story that kind of ties in to some of the things we learned about him in his final issue. We find out that Frankenstein may still be out there lurking around somewhere. If there's zombies on the moon, we know where they came from. Wally's grandfather may be out there bouncing around through time. He built a Tachyon Collider that exploded on him and has set him on a journey through time. This may show up in the Flash book. Or . . . it may show up in Booster Gold. We got the hint of a new vigilante. I'm not sure who or what he is, but he took out Killer Croc pretty easily. And the Deadman, Boston Brand, is still around. Believe it or not the Joker can see him. So if you're intrigued by any of these new story-threads, you should definitely go troll your local comic shops and find a copy of this special. Really . . . you won't be disappointed.

Superman / Batman #41 - DC

There's still no indication, other than what was said in, I think, issue #38 or #39, that this story is taking place in an alternate reality. Because if they're not, then they're messing with a whole lot of continuity and history, but if they are, then the story is probably moot in the first place. I know, it shouldn't bother me this much, but it does. We all know, in our reality, that Darkseid has lost his Omega Beam power. Well apparently he has here also. So, with the help of a brain-damaged Superman, Desaad's plan is to retrieve High-Father's staff from the source wall. Which he does, but before Desaad uses it to return his master to his former glory, he says he wants to test it. So who better to test it on than Superman? He creates a boom-tube, which Superman flies into, that will send him to the other side of the source wall. "Beyond the wall! Into the source itself! If only Superman were aware of his fate, flesh and blood trapped behind the source wall, buried alive for eternity." Well apparently that's really where High-Father is because when he hits the end of his destination, his mind clears up, and the first person . . . actually the only person . . . he runs in to is High-Father. Who tells him, "You should be proud, Superman. It was a hero's life. One of love and loyalty, with foes worth fighting and people worth fighting for. And now, my friend, it's over!" So where does the story go from here? I guess we'll have to read the next issue to find out. Alan Burnett has crafted a very compelling story here, and I absolutely love Dustin Nguyen's pencils. I just wish the part of this story that has me befuddled, would be cleared up. Please!

Action Comics #857 - DC

Ok, I've just come to the conclusion that this was just a goofy story-arc. It really was . . just . . . silly. Superman and Jonathon have ended up on the Bizarro world. And so far Superman has done nothing but made it worse for Bizarro. They're under a blue sun, so both of them have different powers. Bizarro has this Bizarro-vision, that allows him to procreate new occupants to his world, just by focusing it on one of the other Bizarro's. Which I guess, is how he created the Bizarro Justice League. Anyways, through all of this process, somehow, Bizarro has fallen out of favor with all of his world's inhabitants. Which saddens him. But, with an idea sparked by Jonathon, Superman convinces him that they need to play a little game. Superman is going to go around and fix everything, and Bizarro will follow and tear it back apart. The Bizarro's view Superman's actions as making their world ugly, and then when they see Bizarro attacking him, they feel that he's trying to save their world and . . . ta-da . . he's back in favor with the populace. And Superman and Jonathon head back to Earth. Now, just because I can explain the story, doesn't mean that I necessarily liked it. I still find Bizarro stories to be very annoying. However, I really did like Eric Powell's art. Especially the scenes that were off of the Bizarro planet. And of course what can you say about Geoff Johns and Richard Donner, but that they're both brilliant. It isn't really their fault that I didn't like the story. It was more a matter of the material they had to work with. But I went on a rant about that in my last Action blog, so I won't go in to it again this time. Let's just say, I can't wait until next issue when Gary Frank takes over on the pencils.

Streets of Glory #2 - Avatar

This is an interesting book. I haven't really got the whole feel of it yet, but I like what I've seen so far. I just can't believe it's 2007 and I'm reading 3 western themed titles every month. Loveless, Jonah Hex, and now this book. Amazing! It seems to me like this Joseph Dunn, the title character, is a bit like a Jonah Hex type character. Although he claims that he's not a bounty hunter. I guess he just a guy, who fought to free up this land for his government, and now he's kind of a wandering vigilante. Kind of like he's policing his territory. He's already taken one young man under his wing, Pete Lorrimer, whose brother Frank was killed right in front of him. The only reason Pete didn't share his fate, was because of Joseph's intervention. And they've gone to look up Joseph's buddy, Tom McKinnon. He's a saloon owner now in Gladback, but they served together during the war. This issue 2 obvious threats blow in to town. One is one of the countries richest men, Charles Morrison. He's built his money with the railroads, and he claims he's in town on business. He seems amicable so far, but, you know what happens when someone messes with a man's business. The other threat is veiled by a man's torture. He's a farmer who comes wandering in to town who's been tortured, and by all accounts, should be dead from his suffering. But the threat is actually in the form of an Indian, Red Crow. Joseph immediately recognizes his torture tactics and realizes that the monster that he thought dead, is still walking amongst them. I like Garth Ennis' story-telling abilities, but these first 3 issues have mostly been about the set-up. We haven't really got into the meat of the story yet. And Mike Wolfer's artwork is . . . ok. It's not great, but it does show glimpses of brilliance. So I definitely think he's going to get better. Right now I'd probably give the book a B+, but, depending on where the story goes from here, that assumption could definitely rise.

Moon Knight #13 - Marvel

This issue was ok. Basically what Charlie Huston has to do here is try to wrap up any hanging story-lines to kind of clear the slate for the new creative team next issue. It's going to consist of Mike Benson, Mark Texeira and Javier Saltares. I hope this doesn't mean that they won't be doing Ghost Rider any more. I would really hate to see that happen. As much as I like this character, I would rather see Mark and Javier there than here. If they can do both books . . great. But if I had a choice . . I'd choose Ghost Rider. Anyways, Tomm Coker fills in as the penciller on this issue. There's going to be an annual coming out here in November. Then we'll have to wait until January for the first new issue, which will be #14. I'm glad they aren't restarting it with #1. Anyways, first of all Marc has to go through his psych-evaluation for his registration. But he does his homework. We don't really know what he's doing ahead of time, but we find out he's been spying on his evaluator. Classic! So when he goes in to talk to him, he starts out calm and rational. Which really puts his evaluator off guard. Then his evaluator tries to trick him, with the moon, thinking that it still triggers his powers. Marc puts on a brilliant act. He convinces him that he has 3 different personalities, Marc, Jake Lockely and Steven Grant. Then when he really has him flipping out, he makes him think that Khonshu has taken over his consciousness. And with the homework he did, he psychs him out. Has him trembling on his knees actually. He never wants to see him again, so he registers him automatically. "You're registered as an independent. No SHIELD or government affiliation. There's less, um, oversight that way. And that should be the last we need to meet." We also see that his previous affiliates, Frenchie and Marlene are being drawn back to him. Probably to put everyone in place so the new creative team can do with them as they see fit. The part I really liked about this book, is this should be the last tie in with the Initiative. With this issue, Marc should be completely autonomous from that storyline. Finally! I really like this book, and I can't wait for it's return in January. I just hope it's a little less . . . convoluted.

X-Men : First Class Vol.2 #5 - DC

This was kind of a neat story. With all the Hulk-mania running rampant through the Marvel Universe right now, this one takes us back to the first meeting of our young heroes with the rampaging split personality. They're sent to Colorado, at the behest of Professor Xavier, who is trying to help the army recapture, as they put it, a threat to society. I guess, actually, this would be Xavier's first experience with the Hulk also. Rick Jones is also part of this story. At the time, he was still trying to protect the Hulk from all the Army's attacks. Pretty much, he felt guilty for what had happened to Dr. Banner, since he was the one that had wandered out to the test range. So anyways, upon their first encounter, of course, they view him as a threat. So they hit first and ask questions later. Then by the time Rick comes on the scene, and tries to explain to them what's really going on, they've already clobbered him into a frenzy, so there's really not going to be any reasoning with him. So it's a good thing that Xavier's powers are able to travel great distances. Plus, sitting in the situation room with all the Army guys, he's really starting to get the feeling that there's more going on with this threat than he's being told. He is able to calm the Hulk down, and then he begins his transformation back in to Dr. Banner. After talking to him, Xavier, and our young heroes, decide that the best thing to do is walk away and pretend they never found him. As usual this book is by Jeff Parker and Roger Cruz. And as I've said before, I really like seeing our heroes in this younger stage of their evolution. I also like the more upbeat stories. But I probably could've done without the cartoon series in the back.

WetWorks #14 - WildStorm

I want to like this book. The problem I have though, is two-fold. First of all, it bothers me that Whilce Portatio is no longer involved in the creative process. To be brutally honest, he's the reason I came back to this book in the first place. Without his direct involvement, I just kind of feel like I'm reading . . . a fake. I'm not trying to be mean. It's just how I feel. Secondly, I'm really, really tired of this whole vampire thing. It's just goes on, and on, and on, and on, and on. Get it over with already. Ok. I understand that it's something that's just always going to be there. Even if they win a battle, the war's not over. But it doesn't have to be the central theme of every issue. The issues when we were exploring Ab-Death's world were interesting, because they were different. And I understand that the first story-arc, the one involving Thea Mater, was really the spark that reignited the human/vampire war on our Earth. I understand all that. But Dane and Mother One aren't the only members of this team. Aren't the rest of them out there working on something else? Isn't there any other emergencies anywhere else in the world? Or does the whole world revolve around Yugoslavia right now? I'd really like to see the hint of some other story-lines evolving out of something . . somewhere. I'd like to stick with this book. But, if it stays on this track . . . if it's dragged out for much longer . . . I'm just going to have to spend my $3 on something that gives me more pleasure. Like maybe boxes or backing boards. The art is ok. Frank Gomez is doing a decent job. I just need to be stimulated, intellectually, a little more. Please!

Loveless #20 - Vertigo

This comic vexes me. To a bit. I really like it. I think the writing is outstanding. And there were some issue, that had some incredible art. But . . . there were also some issues, such as this one drawn by Werther Dell'Edera, that I just really didn't like the art at all. I'll be the first one to tell you that I think the quality of the story far outweighs that of the art. You have to keep the readers interest. You have to be able to draw them in. They have to feel like they can follow and visualize the story as it progress' from month to month. And the story, somehow, has to strike a chord, somewhere, in the reader. It gives them a reason to become invested. But . . . that being said . . . much to my chagrin . . . this is a visual medium. So, no matter how good the story, if the artwork doesn't catch their eye, they're just going to skim over it as their looking to add to their stack at the shop. And let's face it, when alls said and done, it really all comes down to sales. Which is why most books have such fantastic covers. Mario Frusin does this cover. He also did the interiors on some of the better issues in this series. As I read this book, I'm trying to follow the story. But, I hate to admit, I'm distracted by the artwork. I'm really not trying to rag on Werther. The guy obviously has talent. And it's a talent that I don't have. But, when the quality of the art distracts me from the story, I have a hard time remaining interested. And I have a hard time becoming invested, because, deep down, I know that the book won't be around that long. This particular issue revolves around the wedding. Apparently it is the center of the universe, in Blackwater, right now, and it's going to be remembered because of everything that happens on this day. Everything is coming to a head . . . right now! I like this book. I really do. I just think that creatively it could be so much more appealing. But when it comes down to it, it's just my opinion. Take it or leave it.

Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters #2 - DC

The Freedom Fighters have always been one of my favorite team books. I think because I was so young the first time I saw them. At that time, the only team book that I had really read was the Justice League. And the Freedom Fighters book was definitely no Justice League. Also the characters were different. They weren't shiny super-heroes like Superman, Green Lantern or the Flash. They were more normal people, with normal problems who just happened to be granted super powers. It didn't make them better, or anything . . . it just made them different. In fact, in a way, it was almost like a curse to them. I mean look at the Human Bomb. He was stuck in that suit. Never able to have human contact again. And what about Doll Man. Yes he was a spy, and lived a life of espionage, but what about companionship. There was no one else in the whole world his size. Anyways, to me, they were all like super-heroes with an ironic twist. Which, at the time, made them different. Because they weren't perfect. This particular issue, further illustrates that point. Misty Knight is living the life of a privileged media star. Drugs, booze and debauchery . . which lead to gossip, rumor and innuendo. Now, add to that her father was killed, months before she even knew it . . . and was replaced by a robot. So you can see where she might be a little narcissistic right now. So really she's at, or maybe even past, the point where she's about to implode. The President, and his PR guy, are ready to hang her out to dry. They're ready to bring in another bunch to take their place, and just be rid of them all. Basically . . . by whatever means necessary. Uncle Sam has come in to intervene, although I don't think the President is aware of that, and has taken Misty off to his outerdimensional sanctuary. There, she's literally cut off from all of her vices. Which sends her in to a deep depression and, on the last page of this issue, it looks like it's pushed her to suicide. Meanwhile, the Red Bee has come out of her cacoon and looks like she's been transformed by her alien insect confrontation. Like I said, super-heroes with ironic twists. This one's brought to us by the ever popular writing duo of Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray. Renato Arlem does the pencils. I liked his stuff when he did X-factor. I also thought that he had improved when he did Hawkgirl. I really think he's doing a decent job here. But honestly, I like the Hawkgirl work better. It's probably not that much different. But . . it's just my preference. Overall though, I love the book.

Green Lantern Corps #17 - DC

This Sinestro Corps war has really turned out to be a great story-line. If you've already read the Superman-prime book, which I have, then you know where the story here is heading. Superman-prime is going to meet up with the new ION. We've seen that part. What we haven't seen is how we get there from the GL Corps perspective. Which is what this book is about. The Corps have come to Earth because they've learned that Sinestro isn't really after OA, the center of the universe. Sinestro is after Earth, the center of the multi-verse. Soranik Natu arrives to join their ranks. She's supposed to be safeguarding Korugar, but her hatred for Sinestro, I think, is stronger than her feelings of duty. Plus I'm sure she thinks that this is how she can protect her people. Princess Iolande also returns this issue. I guess to backup Natu. We also find out that Guy Gardner was being held at Mt. Rushmore, but we aren't given any specifics yet. We see that he's been saved by Hannu, but we don't really know why . . or how. However Guy keeps going on about having to get some painting. It can't be the painting we learned about with Kyle and Hal because they wouldn't need that one as Hal got Kyle separated from Parallax. So I'm not sure what Guy is after. Anyways this whole story really just seems like a build up for Sodam Yat. He's the new rookie from Daxam that really seems to be taking the Corps by storm. Arisia's conclusion about him is, " . . he's as full of himself as the next rookie. Bet he's good. Good as most veterans." After all, he did, practically single handed, take out Ranx back at Mogo. And then this issue, he goes one on one with the anti-monitor. It's a battle that he can't win . . at his current energy level. So the Guardians move up their plans, and merge him with ION. These great cosmic powers seem to come from these lizardy looking things. ION is a green one, and Parallax is a yellow one. But the main point is that when he's turned in to the new ION, almost instantly he garners the rogue Superman's attention. Which sets up the battle royale for next issue. Fantastic story by Dave Gibbons. Patrick Gleason got a lot of help with the pencils this issue. I guess drawing all those aliens catches up to you eventually. Pascal Alixe, Angel Unzueta and Dustin Nguyen all pitch in to help this issue. As well as 5 different inkers. Overall though, a fantastic book. I just wonder when we're going to get in to the specifics behind Guy's abduction.

the Flash #233 - DC

I like this book. And I'm glad that Wally is back. However, I didn't like the art in this issue, as well as the previous two. Freddie E Williams does the art in this one. And I do think he's talented. However, for some reason, between him and Pete Woods, they're just both so over exposed right now. It's ridiculous. Plus, with Daniel Acuna doing the art for the last 2 issues, I was spoiled a little bit. However this issue does have a really nice Doug Braithwaite cover. Basically this issue, Wally is still fighting the aliens that have come to Central City through the water. In doing so, he's inadvertently involved his children in the battle. The Justice League have been watching him since his return, and are concerned about the involvement of his kids in his activities. So he has to give them the whole story about their hyper metabolism and how they're trying to keep it in check so that they don't wake up one day and their kids are like 19 or something. Plus that fact that their powers are also fluctuating in strange and unexpected ways. The only thing we really haven't found out yet is where they were, what it was like, and how they came across all this amazing machinery. But I'm sure we'll get to that sooner or later. Anyways, while Wally's expressing his concerns about his children's well being, his son, Jai, is listening. It's always a bad day for a kid the first time you learn about your own mortality. There's also a back-up featured that pencilled entirely by Doug. It's really amazing looking. And speaking of the aliens where Wally was residing, I think this story tells of the first time they had an encounter with a Flash. This one was Jay. But he does save their planet from being conquered by an alien race, so they feel indebted to him. So I guess this is how we're going to learn about the place where Wally's kids were born. Interesting book. I have to say, I'm glad that Wally is back. However, I do miss Bart. You know . . . since he's from the future, couldn't an earlier version of him come back in to our timeline? Just an idea.

Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century #7 - DC

This issue introduced us to some characters that, to my knowledge, we've never seen in a Legion story before. Specifically, the Amazons of the future. It was kind of an obvious story, but, this is a kids book. But as with Batman and the Teen Titans, I like the animated series so much, that I don't mind the simpler stories. Long story short, Circe is the Queen of the Amazons. There is an Amazon princess that's supposed to take over, but not until she turns 18. Well, her 18th birthday is almost upon her, and . . surprise . . she disappears. I wonder who could be responsible for that. Well the female members of the Legion have to take over, since the guys aren't allowed to set foot on their island. But it's the restlessness of the guys that basically solves the case. Well that, and the Amazon princess being more combat ready than Circe gave her credit for. Of course everything ends up well, and Superboy and the Princess, I think, have a crush on each other. It's a fun book, and it's great for the kids. I read it . . . . because I'm a big kid! And I'm not afraid to admit it. Just don't tell my wife!

Tales of the Sinestro Corps - Superman-Prime #1 - DC

This was a pretty cool book. The interior art was by Pete Woods and Jerry Ordway. Pete's stuff has been getting better. Especially since he seems to be all over the place now-a-days. They had Jerry do the parts of the book that pertained to Superman-prime's past. Which I thought was cool since he's the one that did the mini-series, a couple years ago, that showed the world that he came from. But the pinnacle of the book, artistically, was the Ethan Van Sciver cover. Man that guy is turning in some great covers. To me he seems like a cross between George Perez and Art Adams. With the best qualities of both. Anyways, Geoff Johns wrote it, so you know it has some fantastic character development and interaction. That's what Geoff does best. Basically he's come to Earth, but he's not at full power yet, because he just got out of the Guardians holding cell, which had a red sun atmosphere to dampen his powers. So he has this armor he's wearing until he becomes fully solar charged. Which the heroes are trying to prevent from happening by keeping him away from the sunrise. I know, it's always sunrise somewhere, so if he can fly why doesn't he just . . . . . I know . . it's a stretch . . . but just go with it. Anyways, while he's fighting off all these heroes, we're getting the back-story on what it was that cracked his psych and turned him in to the lunatic he is today. Yes he's had some tragedy. But nothing that anybody else hasn't come back from. He's just made that decision to blame this world for it all. But then . . . the sunrise comes up. It seems like it transforms him. But then the GL Corps' new ION shows up, Sodam Yat. He's from Daxam. You know, the world that Mon-El came from. So next issue, it's going to be an all out battle. This Sinestro Corps story-line is turning out some fantastic books.

Gotham Underground #1 - DC

I liked this book. I'm not exactly sure why it couldn't have been carried in one of the regular Bat-titles, but . . that's ok. It's written by Frank Tieri, and drawn by Jim Calafiore. Both of them, great talents. This story seems awful familiar to the Suicide Squad story currently running in CheckMate. Villains are getting scooped up and kidnapped, just like that story. Here, we don't actually see who's do the abductions, but in the one frame it kind of looks like Bane. But he's not doing it by himself, so he's part of some group. But then a few of the villains gather at the Iceberg Lounge, Penguin's front. They're afraid for their safety. The group includes Hugo Strange, the Scarecrow, Two-Face and the Mad Hatter. This issue we're also introduced to a new mob-boss in town. Since the Black Masks death there's been no one to fill the void. Well, I guess, that's what this guys agenda is. He goes by the name Tobias Whale. And he looks like he sounds. Big! We also see Batman, most of this issue, in his Matches Malone identity. As Matches he been working with the Penguin, so he's in the backroom when all the Rogues are gathered. But then they come busting through the door. It actually is Bane, and with him . . . . . . is the rest of the Suicide Squad. So apparently this is part of the storyline that's running through CheckMate, and from what I understand, Salvation Run. This issue ends up with Bane knocking out Matches. So I'm not exactly sure how, other than the obvious, that this series is going to tie in with the other 2, but since it's the first issue, I'll give it a chance . . . and we'll see. I really hope that we're not going to find out that we're reading the same story, but from three different perspectives. I appreciate the insight, but . . . whatever. I'll let you know what I think after the next issue.

Countdown #27 - DC

And now the recap for week 27. But actually, I guess, it would be week 24 . . since we started at 51. Right? Anyways . . . Buddy Blank, his grandson, Karate Kid and Una have gone to the wasteland of Bludhaven to look for the virus that Brother Eye told them existed there. They really aren't to happy to be there, but it is the next step of their journey. Jimmy has decided to help the Forager out, so she immediately boom-tubes them . . . somewhere. Mary Marvel is reeking further havoc, under the guidance of Eclipso. And this time the headaches she's causing is for Shadowpact. With all of the mystical members of Shadowpact, really they almost have her on the ropes. But before they can cause any real damage, Eclipso gets her the heck out of Dodge. Holly Robinson, after swimming to shore through shark infested waters last issue, thinks that they're finally going to get a respite. But they're put to another trial as the hounds are literally let loose on them. But as they're running through the countryside, Holly comes across a wall and a guard-tower. Which gives her the feeling that they're actually in a prison. Trickster and Piper, after stowing away last issue, have ended up at the jump-point for Salvation. There they run in to Two-face, who, with a lucky flip of his coin, has decided to help them escape. And finally we have the tale of the Challengers who are currently on Earth 8. Although it appeared last issue that the Jokester was killed, I don't think he is. However Donna and Kyle are down for the count. Jason and Bob are trying to make a stand, but they're caught between Havok and the Extremists, and Monarch's alliance with the Crime Society and ForeRunner. It appears that they aren't making much headway, and Jason is chastised by the rest of the group when he stabs one of the Extremists. So in the fight between him and Donna, Monarch makes him an offer which he accepts. And to prove his loyalty . . . he shoots Donna. Man there's an awful lot going on in a single issue of this book. But hey . . . that's why I love it. Well that and that brilliant Ian Churchill cover. Is that a beauty or what. This really is a must-have book.