Reign in Hell #4 - DC

What a fantastic series. I absolutely love what Keith Giffen and Tom Derenick are doing here. But it wouldn't be complete without the fabulous finishes of Bill Sienwiewicz. The last few issues I keep talking about what an extremely complex world that the boys have created here. And then, by populating it with not only a plethora of hellish hosts, but most of the magical heroes of the DC Universe as well . . . there's so much going on, you can't help but get drawn in to the story. This issue though, we finally learn who it is that's been locked up down here and everyone, including the demon horde, is afraid of. Blue Devil and Etrigan are going at it in Labyrinth . . which is where he's locked up. They're going at it so hard that the other demon soldiers that are nearby are scurrying off for fear that they might break him out. "What!? Worse'n being handed over to the renderers 'n' winding up as wall mortar in some scut-b'damned torment ghetto?", to which his comrade replies "Way worse if those two kick around enough to free him!" Any guess who you think it is? Let's put it this way, once he's out Satanus and Neron may be the least of each other's worries. There may be a new lord of Hell. Blue Devil and Etrigan do indeed fight had enough to break him out. And after the explosion, as he's walking out of the pit that he's been imprisoned in for who only knows how long, he has some words of advice. "School's in, y' bushwackin' dweeb-monkeys. T'day's lesson . . . payback's a bitch!" Next issue's credits? "FRAG-TASTIC! THE REAL LOBO'S BACK?" Oh man . . I can't wait to see what's going to happen next.

Checkmate #31 - DC

I really liked this book, and I'm sad that this is the final issue. There's so much more potential with this story . . . and this series. I even have to say, with this particular issue, that I enjoyed Manuel Garcia's pencils in it. I thought they fit the feel of the story very well. My only complaint is the conclusion. I mean . . we have all this build up on this new character . . Chimera. We feel sorry for him because he's basically a soldier that was experimented on . . after some serious injuries . . and was transformed into this new creature . . I guess, enhanced soldier or hero would actually be the right phrase. But, we feel sorry for him because it seems like he's lost all of his humanity with the transformation. There's this big build up with the mythical monsters that seem to have arisen from the ashes of folklore and are now threatening to lay waste to the world. Everywhere people are talking about it, they're talking about how this is Armageddon. There's also a lot of build up with Chimera's girlfriend . . in his previous life . . Chloe. She sees Chimera on TV and recognizes the rose tattoo on his neck. So she's been doing everything she can to get to Adam and see if she can reach him. She finally reaches him, and the final creature . . Qi Yu . . a 3 headed dragon . . abducts her. So, after all this build-up . . . Chimera figures out the one thing that'll scare Qi Yu . . the Angel Gabriel . . he turns in to him, and defeats him. That's it. Armageddon was supposedly stopped, by stopping this one creature. Chloe is rescued. And, apparently, now Adam Sharp can turn back in to his human form and everyone lives happily ever after. What the Hell!? Talk about an anti-climatic ending. One page Chimera turns into Gabriel and the Qi Yu is shrieking in agony . . . 2 pages later, the stories over with. They got a neat new character his with a whole lot of potential. But, I don't really feel like Bruce Jones did him any justice with this story. I'm not sure if they just had to finish this book up real fast or something, but . . I just feel like we were cheated with this ending. And what's going to happen with our world peace-keeping organization? Will they be back after Final Crisis, or what? I liked this book, but . . I was frustrated after reading it.

Rann-Thanagar Holy War #6 - DC

This is basically a recap issue. Not a recap of the whole series, but . . a retelling of the origins and evolution of the Nameless One . . Synnar. It has all the grandeur and posturing of one of Jim Starlin's cosmic odysseys. It's actually quite beautiful in it's scope and scale. He's trying to rise to power without the attention of anyone . . including the Supreme Being, God . . until he feels that he's amped up enough to be considered a legitimate threat. But right now our group of heroes are trapped on the planet that Synnar is transforming into his new seat of power. And apparently he's got the whole sector of space closed off with a force-field so that no one can interfere with his plans. However, it appears that Lady Styx, and her fleet of followers are on their way to this location also. Our warriors try to put up a fight. Actually they kind of lose track of Bizarro . . their only real power-house. When he's caught the attention of Synnar . . Synnar takes him down rather abruptly. Their resolve becomes dissipated rather quickly. "Adam, our prospects for survival are rapidly swirling down the drain. Bizarro was the heaviest hitter in our arsenal. Now he's out of action before we even begin taking on the worst nightmare any of us can imagine. In other words, we are very and extremely screwed. We desperately need a savior of our own!" I wondering if they might end up turning to Lady Styx . . making a deal with the devil, as it were. I love what Jim has created here. It's a fantastic tale. I'm also enjoying Ron Lim pencils on it. I wish Jim was pencilling his own stuff, but . . Ron's a pretty decent fill in. With only 2 issues to go . . the best is yet to come.

Legion of Super-heroes #47 - DC

I really like this book. I love these characters . . have for quite a while. And, I think Jim Shooter is doing an excellent job of developing some interesting story-lines here. But, I think I've found out the answer to how the Legion of 3 Worlds storyline is going to affect this book . . . it's going to be cancelled. On the bright side though . . I don't think it'll be for good. I'm thinking that the outcome of the Final Crisis mini is going to cause the Legion to become different when the dust settles. So I'm sure there will be another Legion book . . it'll just be different. And probably start over from #1. I just hope that Jim sticks around for the creative part of the process. I think he's really got an excellent handle on these characters and this title. This issue Brainy actually proposes to Dream Girl. We also find out that Princess Projectra has a hard on for bringing down the UP and the Legion, for not protecting her home-world from destruction. She's become a big fan of ancient comics, and I'm thinking that someone she's trying to gather information from them. But, I haven't figured that out yet. Rick Leonardi and Dan Green do the art on this issue, and Rick . . . Rick is back in the form that I love. Remember how good his stuff looked when he did Spider-man 2099? Well that's how his pencils look here also. It's good to see him back in the groove of things. Anyways, I'm lamenting over this books cancellation, but I'm also hopeful for their return in a new book. These characters have been around for 40 some years now. They can't just go away . . just like that. I guess we'll have to wait and see what happens. Long Live the Legion!

DC Universe: Decisions #4 - DC

Overall, I liked this book. However, I didn't really dig the resolution to the story. As we saw last issue, it looked liked Jericho had gone over to the dark side. Apparently this issue takes place after the current story-line over it Titans. In it, Joey is still trapped inside of Match. With this story, we now know that he'll be taken to STAR Labs so they can study him, and try to cure him. Anyways, we thought he was bad, but what's actually happening is that every time Joey possess' someone, I guess he takes a little bit of their mind with him when he leaves. All those various psyches in one mind is causing his conscious to become fragmented. At least that's the explanation we get from Mento. My only question is, that doesn't really explain his murderous rampage here . . why it was directed at the presidential candidates . . and if it's just murderous urges, how come everything has been so intricately planned? None of those questions come anywhere near the answers I was looking for. Also, it was a bit of a stretch that after Joey inhabited Hal Jordan, that he was able to expunge him completely from his body . . . with his force of will. So much so, that it actually put Joey back in his own body. Someplace he hasn't been for a very long time. To me, that was a huge leap in logic. I'm not saying everything was wrong with this book. I actually think that Judd Winick and Bill Willingham make a pretty good creative team. Whodathunkit? And I've been a big fan of Howard Porter's for quite a while. Another hugely underrated talent. But, story and art aside . . there were just a few leaps here that just seemed a bit to incredible to take. And really, the whole purpose of this book was for Superman's speech at the end . . to get everyone to vote! It was a little hammy for me. But, I understood what they were trying to do. I just wish the story had ended better, or . . maybe it'll be explained better over in Titans.

Superman / Batman #53 - DC

Do you remember the old Composite Superman/Batman stories? You know, the ones who used to run through World's Finest all of the time? Well this story, is kind of along those lines. That's what immediately came to my mind when I started reading it. It appears that Michael Green and Mike Johnson are going to be the writers on this series for the foreseeable future. I've enjoyed their stories so far. I don't think this one will be an exception. Basically, Clark and Bruce are at a benefit when the Silver Banshee crashes the party. Bruce has some antiquities there, and apparently she's after an amulet . . . the brooch of Cowdor. Somehow it amps up her power. She's magical in nature, so . . it doesn't take much. Anyways, Superman and Batman both try to take her down, and both get the short end of the stick for it. However, Batman gets the worst because his body is covered with shards of broken glass. Anyways, Superman takes him back to the cave, and Alfred tends to his wounds. Almost immediately they notice a shift in power. Superman's x-ray vision appears to be on the fritz. Then, on his way home his super-hearing, heat-vision, and even flight go awry. Meanwhile, Batman, while on patrol with Robin, starts noticing that he's able to do things that he shouldn't be able to. The issue ends with Superman crash landing into his apartment, and then outside . . . Batman is hovering above the building. "We need to talk.", he says, while his eyes appear to be blazing like a red sun. The reason I liked the composite Superman/Batman stories is because the main theme of them is always comparing the similarities and pointing out the opposites of these 2 characters. It's not just their costume or origins . . or even their beliefs. It goes right down to their core . . how much these 2 are dissimilar of each other. But, at the same time, I think, it's the different ways they have of looking at things that makes them such good friends and partners. Even though they both think the other goes to far with their hope or pessimism . . either would lay their life on the line if needed. It's a great theme to be explored, and the perfect characters to do it with. Rags Morales is back on pencils this issue, and I couldn't be happier. I love this guys work. I think he's a hugely underrated talent. It looks like we're at the beginning of another great story-arc in this fantastic book.

Final Crisis: Rage of the Red Lanterns - DC

I loved this book. I really like the way that DC has expanded on the Green Lantern Corps of late. And, the fact that they're developing so many of it's characters . . . they don't all just come and go. This book really had it all. Blackest Night is coming soon, and I think that the emergence of the Red Lanterns is really just the precursor. I also like the developments with the Guardians. It appears that the one Guardian . . you know, the one with the scars on his/her face . . it appears that she may be in league with the Sinestro Corps. But, I have to think, that it's not for the reasons that we're automatically going to assume. I think it all has to do with the way that the Guardians are becoming more . . involved. "We must not overestimate the incursion of the emotional spectrum. We must extinguish all other light." All of the sudden . . there appears to be lots of other lights. We got the Sinestro Corps . . Yellow. The Rage of the Red Lanterns . . I think that's kind of self explanatory. The Zamarons and Star Sapphire . . Purple. Obviously the Green Lanterns. And now . . now we have the Blue Lanterns. Well . . a Blue Lantern. "There is only me. Saint Walker. It is imperative that we retrieve Sinestro before he is sacrificed. If this universe is to survive the Blackest Night, we will need him alive." I'm not exactly sure what the hue of his uniform has to do with his emotional response . . yet, but . . I'm sure we'll find out soon. Also, it seems like everything stems out of the slaughter that happened in sector 666, all those years ago, by the little blue guys first policing agency . . the Manhunters. We still don't know what the whole story there is, but somehow it's all connected. This issue was written by Geoff Johns, so of course it's brilliant. To me, he is to the story what a brilliant artist is to the page. You can feel the emotion and essence of the story coming across through all the dialogue. But, he was aided in his expression of this tale . . this issue . . by the fantastic renderings of Shane Davis. This guy has just grown leaps and bounds in the short time that he's been around. To me, the most disturbing part of this book was the visuals of the Red Lanterns. Apparently when they're indoctrinated they go through this ritual where they expunge all of their own blood . . through their mouth, much like vomiting. "Do not fight the Red light as it purges you of your tainted blood. We will spill the blood of those who wronged us. Their blood will anoint us. Our rings need to feed." But, as gruesome and disturbing as those pages were . . the pages with Hal flying through the skies with Carol . . like a 'wing-man' to her jet . . those pages were crisp and clean and almost calming and relaxing. The disparity between the scenes were amazing. And proof to Shane's incredible talent. This story is going to continue through the pages of Green Lantern . . following up the Secret Origins story-line. I can't wait to see how this part of the Final Crisis unfolds.

Teen Titans #64 - DC

First of all, what an awesome cover by Eddy Barrows. It looks fantastic. He didn't however do the interior work. That was done by . . I'd have to assume he's a newcomer . . Fernando Dagnino. But, even though he's new, I thought he did a more than adequate job. His characters and faces look great. He doesn't have the full package yet though. He doesn't do a whole lot with his backgrounds. He does show a lot of promise though, so . . I think he'll just continue to get better. Anyways, I thought this book had some things that I liked, and some things . . . not so much. I liked that Zeus brought Cassie up to Olympus to explain to her what was going on with her powers. It all has to do with Ares. By giving in to him, every time she got angry her powers were amped up. But, she was also losing her connection with Zeus because of that arrangement. Ares had planned on her giving over to him completely, but . . he underestimated her resolve. So, while they still have a connection, he started working on developing another agent . . Lycus, one time king of Libya. Ares' son. "Lycus has been granted his own hellhound, as well as a second life. So long as he takes from you the power granted by Ares. Every time Lycus murders someone in his father's name while you are near, he grows stronger. Soon he will be powerful enough to end your life, Cassandra, and claim his place as the new champion of Ares." Which explains what happened to Wendy and Marvin in the tower. After the consult, Zeus sends her back to the boarding house in Georgetown. The problem is . . Lycus, and his hellhound, have followed her there . . and now, are hunting her. I'm glad this has all been explained. Now . . for the part I didn't like. Bombshell is trying to figure out how her dad fits into everything that's happened to her. He's the General in charge of the project that actually created her. So she's more than a little peeved. Anyways, the Titans track her to the facility where she's confronting her dad and they just start going at it full-blown. Robin, Red Devil and Blue Beetle actually show some good team-work in trying to subdue her. Props for that. But, then her father jumps in . . trying to protect her . . and starts explaining everything that's been happening to her to Robin. Robin feels sorry for her and asks her to stay with them at the Tower. Hello? Wasn't she just trying to take your head off about 30 seconds ago? And now your just going to let her in . . because he father says that he thinks it's a good idea? Isn't he the one that made her, and turned her into this in the first place? And then . . he kept it from her. It appears that there's a couple of themes that recur throughout this title. First all of the characters are side-kicks, or second-generation, of other characters. Secondly, they all appear to have really f#$%ed up father-roles. I guess that's a prerequisite for joining this club. Who knew? I really want to put this faux pas aside and enjoy the story. But, it's really a huge leap in logic. And, it expects the readers to accept an awful lot of . . . good will. To much, if you ask me. However, I do love these characters, and this book so . . . I guess we'll move on and see where this new development leads to. I guess without Ravager, they needed a new female figure around to fight with all of the time. I thought Sean McKeever was doing a pretty decent job with this book . . up until this point. I'll be interested to see how he pulls his butt out of the fire with this one. Personally, I don't see how it can work.

Justice League of America #26 - DC

I liked this book . . I actually love the Justice League, but . . I just thought the story was a little strange after having just read Trinity. Basically, last issue, Anansi, the god of Vixen's totem, changed everything with the world and Vixen's team-mates. It kind of reads like an 'elseworld' story, but . . it's not. Anansi just told the story different, and everything changed. Like I said, it was strange after reading Trinity, to see Vixen fighting for these heroes, who . . over in the other book . . are all but forgotten. However, by the end of the story, when we know Anansi's actual intentions . . it does make a little more sense. Plus, Anansi warns Mari . . "The world has changed. Reality has been altered on a fundamental level. So far, the change goes smoothly, but this may not always be the case. As of now, only 1 human is aware of what has happened. He is devious and may attempt to take advantage of the situation . . . I will need more than a guardian of the totem. I will need and agent of change." Which, to me, helped to clear up a little bit of the ties between this book and Trinity. Although, I'd have to say that this story takes place before the evil Trinity came into their power because at the end of this issue we see the League assembled and Superman, Wonder Woman and Batman are all present. With such an all-encompassing story like Trinity, they had to have known that it was going to raise questions in some of the other titles. And that's not even touching on the Final Crisis stuff. Anyways, next issue we start a cross-over story with the characters of Milestone. Do you remember that imprint title from . . I don't know, 10 or so years ago? Anyways, the characters are being brought back and they're going to be incorporated into the DC Universe through this title. That should be an interesting accomplishment. Like I said last issue, I think Dwayne McDuffie is getting better with these characters and this book. I know he's an accomplished writer, but . . he just didn't seem entirely comfortable here at first. And as always, Ed Benes does a terrific job with the art. This book has slipped a little for me. But . . I still would put it in my top 10 to 15 books.

Trinity #22 - DC

They did a little different set-up with this issue. Last issue, when Tarot and Gang-buster met Alfred, he gave them an ancient scroll, and casing, that he had found. He's one of the people that seem to have an instinct that's telling him that there's something wrong with this world. The tarot related items, and the Trinity that he keeps putting together with his finds, keep pointing him in that direction. So, when he met Tarot, and she told him of her same feelings . . he felt compelled to relinquish the scroll to her . . as if he felt it belonged with her. Well, this issue, the back-up story is actually in the front and it's about Carter Hall's previous life, Prince Khufu, and his visions of the future of the world. 3000 years past, he got the vision of all of his future lives, and how everything was going to change because of a fundamental shift in the future of the Earth. He immediately felt compelled to write it all down and save it for a future generation to find, and hopefully help in fixing the world. That's the scroll that Alfred found. When we come back to our main story, we find Le Fey and Enigma in their semi-god like selves. They haven't gained full power yet because of Kanjar Ro's deception. Also, across the globe, heroes seem to be disappearing. They aren't being forgotten, like Superman, Wonder Woman and Batman, but . . it's just like they're fading out of existence. We see it happen to Green Arrow and Speedy, and then Tomorrow Woman. I also liked the merry chase that Gehenna took her captors on. Overall I thought it was an interesting book. Hats off to Kurt, Fabian, Mark and Scott. I thought it was a successful effort by all.

New Exiles #13 - Marvel

As you know, I'm a huge fan of this book. I'm thrilled to death that Tom Grummett is back this issue. The pages look incredible. However, I do have to give props for the cover. Alex Garner does the art, and it is incredible. I assume he's a relatively new talent. But this cover was great. Anyways on with the story . . . this issue gives us a little more insight into Cat and Betsy. Betsy seems to have her inner-demons calmed down for the meantime . . . Ogun and Lady Mandarin . . but, you never know when they'll be popping up again. With Cat, we find out part of the reason that she seems to be changing images so much . . "I'm not locked into any single dimension. I may look 'normal' . . . but I'm actually cascading from one incarnation of myself to another. Used to be too quick to see, or matter. Here though . . the process . . the result . . is becoming tangible." But on some level, her and Sage, through this revelation, seem to have bonded a bit. After all they both kind of share and experience . . . millions of minds, or faces, streaming through their heads at all times. Although Sage still seems to have one main problem . . . Diana Fox. I thought this was another fantastic issue by Chris Claremont and Tom. Sure it was a development issue . . . moving the characters further along their given destinies, but . . I still thought it was a good issue. We got a lot more insight this issue. And, it sets up our next adventure in which Sabretooth is putting Morph in charge of. That should be interesting.

Secret Invasion: the Amazing Spider-man #3 - Marvel

This book was . . ok. True Jackpot got the spotlight in Amazing Spider-man, but . . I just don't understand why they had to waste Spider-man's involvement in the Secret Invasion on this mini-series. This series was clearly more about Jackpot than the ol' web-head. Why couldn't they do an Avengers Initiative mini-series, or one-shot, and feature her story there? That is where she came from after all . . . well, the original Jackpot anyways. There really wasn't much resolved over the course of this series either. Spidey and Jackie . . what? J-pot? . . do seem to have a better working relationship after all of this. And, the original Jackpot, Sara, seems to appreciate her involvement a bit more, but . . other than that . . . not a whole lot happened. Oh, I take that back. The DB did issue an apology, of sorts, for slandering her name. But they buried it in the cross-word puzzle so . . who knows? So anyways, I'd have to say that the writing, by Brian Reed, was only average. And the art, by Marco Santucci, was actually ok. The inks, I thought, were a little heavy in spots, but . . . I thought the panels and the flow were pretty good. I still feel like I wasted money on these 3 books, but . . . what am I gonna do?

the Amazing Spider-man #574 - Marvel

This book really surprised me. It wasn't at all what I expected. When I saw that we were going to have a retrospect, or sorts, for Flash Thompson . . . I just thought it was going to be a rehashing of a lot of old memories. But, this issue, Flash is in an Army hospital, being interviewed by some General for the Medal of Honor. He wants to know what Flash did, and why he did it. As we scroll through the memories, we see that a lot of Flash's heroic decisions are based upon what he's seen and been witness to with Spider-man. While others see Spider-man as a vigilante of sorts, Flash sees him as a man who, no matter what the odds, will never give up on trying to help, or come to the rescue of, someone. The General doesn't see what we see in Flash's memories, but most of his decisions are based on living up to Spidey's heroic example. I'm sure this was a story that was set up as a tribute of sorts for Veteran's day, but . . I thought it was really touching. Marc Guggenheim and Barry Kitson did a fantastic job of capturing this story. We find out at the end, because of his heroic actions, that Flash lost both of his legs. Also, on the letters page, there's a story about a soldier that came to Marvel to visit, whom was the inspiration for this story . . an Army medic named Jeff Guerin. Stephen Wacker sums it all up in his last paragraph, "To put it plainly . . we couldn't have done this issue without Jeff's help and we dedicate it to him, the two men who lost their lives in the same explosion: Cpl Kyle Fernandez and SSG Brian Hobbs and the thousands of other soldier like them who make us proud everyday by serving in the military. Thanks is too small a word." It really was an inspirational story. If you get a chance, you should read it. You won't regret it.

Ultimate Spider-man #127 - Marvel

With all the . . . various stuff going on over in Amazing Spider-man . . I'd have to say that this is my favorite Spider-man book right now. Although, to be fair, it has been in my top 10 pretty much it's entire run. I love this book. I love the dialogue that Brian Bendis writes for Peter's head. Eddie Brock has shown up at his school. He wants Peter's help to get his symbiote back. If Peter doesn't help him, he's threatening to out him to the media. So as Peter's swinging around town, trying to figure out who to go to for help, the dialogue that's running through his head is just perfect for a teen-ager . . . everything's doom and gloom, and every crisis seems like it's going to be the end of the world. Granted, Peter's problems are a little more complicated than your average teen-ager, but . . I still think the dialogue is perfect. I also like this book because, even though Brian is writing it, there's nothing going on in it as far as the alien invasion goes. Nary a Skrull to be found. Hallelujah! Peter doesn't find Venom this issue . . the last he saw him he was attached to him, and then the Ultimates drove him away. Peter actually wore the black costume in this series . . but only for like 1 page. But, Curt Conners, who released the other symbiote . . Carnage . . is helping SHIELD to study Gwen Stacey, whom Carnage took over when he killed her. Like I said, Peter's problems are a bit more complicated than your average teen-ager's. And they get even more complicated when Gwen / Carnage shows up at his house at the end of this issue. "I'm sorry Peter. I wasn't . . I swear I wasn't going to bother you anymore. I wasn't going to just come here like this but . . . I'm having a bit of trouble here. And I don't exactly know what to do.", she says as she sits on his bedroom floor . . looking like Gwen . . but with Carnage's face. I'd also like to say that I think Stuart Immonen is doing a great job with the art on this series. He's been on the book now for . . 10 issues, I think . . I just really feel that he's made this book his own. There's a double page spread of Peter swinging through mid-town, while he's trying to figure out what to do, that just looks incredible. I also like the double page spread of Peter in the bull-pen at the DB, trying to dig up information on the symbiote, Roxxon and Trask. The way the panels flow, and all the inner dialogue, you really get a sense of all the activity and chaos in the scene. Again . . it's brilliant. I'm a big fan of the Ultimate Universe, and I think this is the best book in it.

the New Avengers #46 - Marvel

Much like the last issue of Mighty Avengers . . . there wasn't an Avenger in sight this issue. The actual title of this book should be, the New Avengers . . (sometimes! Unless they're busy!). I'm being a little critical. It's kind of like our homes . . it's where we live, but we're not always there. Right? Anyways, this issue was all about giving us information on the Hood's Syndicate of Criminals. Basically, it caught us up on what's going on with them now, and . . to show us that they're just as embroiled in this Skrull invasion as the rest of us. It starts out with some SHIELD agents interrogating Madame Masque. The Hood comes in to rescue her, but after he shoots 3 or the 4 agents, they both find out that they were all actually Skrulls. So, they take the one that survived back to question in front of his whole organization. They torture him enough that he reverts back to his Skrull form and tells them that they just wanted someone inside their organization. Their group was new . . it surprised them. From there they piece together the rest of the Skrull plan, and the Hood comes to realize that probably every super-hero group out there has been compromised. He also finds out that he can use his 'hood' to glean out the Skrull conspirators. There's only 1 in this group . . the Slug. The Slug? Exactly! But now . . now the Hood has to figure out what to do next. He's got a lot on his mind. So he goes to the source of his powers, to ask . . "I want to know what I can do. You hear me? I want you to tell me exactly what this hood does. ALL IT'S SECRETS! TELL ME!" That's when it's revealed that the source of his powers is actually . . . Dormammu! Didn't really see that one coming. Anyways, as usual, Brian Bendis wrote it. This one I actually enjoyed, in that it got us caught back up with this group . . and showed us that they're still out there . . posing a threat. I really liked Billy Tan's pencils. He has a fantastic sense of flow to his work. I also like that he does different variations of the panels. I think it helps to keep the story interesting. Really, my only disappointment with this particular issue is that we didn't see a single Avenger. It seems to me that this story could've been told in a 1-shot or something.

HULK #7 - Marvel

Wow! Just when I thought this book couldn't get any better . . they throw a bit of a twist into it, and . . . voila! Actually, I was really dreading Ed McGuinness' departure from this title. I was afraid that it was just going to be a little 6 issue gimmick, to draw some new readers into the title. I guess I can't complain to much . . it worked on me. Anyways, this issue they split the book into 2 stories. Both are written by Jeph Loeb, but Art Adams does the art on the Hulk side of the story, and Frank Cho does the art on the Rulk side of the story. OMG! I know! Rulk? But, officially, that's what they're calling him now in the book. Aarrggghh! What a terrible nickname. No I don't have anything better. But, Rulk? It sounds like somebodies got a chicken bone caught in their throat? "What do you think we should call our newest Hulk persona?", "Rulk?", "Oh, I'm sorry. I'll ask again when you're done eating." Seriously . . there's got to be something different. Anything! But we can put that aside for now. The Hulk story deals with Bruce going to Las Vegas to try to help somehow with the Wendigo problem they seem to be having right now. Rulk . . yuck! . . recently attacked them, and since they don't differentiate between color hues . . they're looking for whom they think is their attacker . . the Hulk. However, when in Vegas . . . Joe Fixit is back. There must be something about this town that skews Bruce's emotions. Anyways, he's fighting the Wendigos when he's attacked by . . . Moon Knight? First of all, what's he doing in Vegas, and secondly, why would he defend the Wendigos. Joe's about to beat him senseless when, he's attacked again . . . this time by some Avengers. What, are they having some kind of convention in town? Anyways, in the Rulk . . yuck! . . part of the story, She-Hulk has decided that it's past time that she pays him back for the humiliation she endured on the helicarrier. She runs through a whole list of people . . to join her chick-squad . . but ends up with Valkyrie and Thundra. Nobody else seemed all that interested in getting a good beat down. They find the guy out by Mount Rushmore, and . . . the melee begins. It isn't long before he's hanging Jen over Lincoln's head by a chain, and . . . propositioning the girls? "Now, if you 2 want to come back inside, have a beer with me . . . and play spin the bottle . . . I won't kill your little girlfriend here." I have to say I really like the feel that Jeph's brought to this character, and this book. And, I'm glad that the artistic side of the book seems to be just as important . . after Ed's contribution. I guess I'll be sticking around for a little while longer.

X-Factor #36 - Marvel

First I have to say what I don't like about this book . . . Larry Stroman's art. It's not that I outright hate his work . . I really don't. But, I just don't like the feel that he bringing across in his work. I can't really pin-point exactly what it is, but I just don't think he's the right artist for this book . . or these characters. I know . . he's done X-Men books before . . and, I think he may even have been on the original run of this series for a while. But . . I don't know . . I just don't like it. Lary can be a good artist . . I just don't feel that we're getting his best stuff here. I don't really know any other way to explain it. Anyways, as for the story . . Peter David run's his usual course and right now we're on a mission to further develop some of these characters. Particularly Darwin. We find out this issue what his actual fate is, and how he adapts to, really, any situation. No matter how hopeless it seems. Also, the rest of the team is getting closer to finding him. Although when they follow the directions of Longshot . . it may have led them straight into a trap. The issue ends with Darwin's abductor blowing up the warehouse just as Maddrox and team enter. I thought Longshot was supposed to have good luck? Are we sure this one isn't still a Skrull impostor? Anyways, I like this book, and I love these characters. I just wish we could get a better artist on the book. And . . a permanent one . . maybe?

Wolverine: Manifest Destiny #1 - Marvel

This story also appears to be dealing with some of Logan's past transgressions . . or sins. Since the team is located in San Francisco now, he's decided to venture into China-town and tie up some loose ends from his past. But I get the feeling when he travels into China-town . . he's not really asking for forgiveness, or offering an apology. I get the feeling that he more on a mission to rub the fact that he's still alive in these people's faces. He's been to China-town before, but on those visits, he traveled incognito, or without arousing attention. This time . . he's purposefully attracting attention. But, he also appears to be getting a much more . . rallied response, than he expected. His final thoughts in this book, as he's looking upon the aged visage of his ex-girlfriend, . . . "Okay . . . this is officially going to be harder than I thought." I really enjoyed Jason Aaron's take on Logan's character with this book. I think he's really got a good feel for him. But I thought the real star of the book was Stephen Segovia. Stephen's artwork was tremendous throughout this issue. I enjoyed the feel of his pages and I really like the flow of his art. Everything moved along seamlessly. I picked up this mini-series on a lark . . it's not like we don't have enough Wolverine stories out there right now, but . . I'm really happy that I did. Although, had the price been $3.99, like some of Marvel's more recent special issues, I probably would've passed it up. That would've been a shame, because this is a nice book.

X-Men: Legacy #217 - Marvel

I'm enjoying this Original Sin story-line, but . . as we get further into the story . . I'm starting to wonder who committed the Original Sin. Since we have no Adam & Eve, or Cain & Abel, in this story, I'm assuming that we're talking about Charles. But, with all this emphasis on Logan, and Romulus' involvement with Logan's beginnings in the X-Men . . . I'm wondering if we're actually talking about one of those two? Anyways, with this chapter of the story, Logan has got Charles shuffling through his memories. They're events that Logan remembers, but he thinks they'll be significant to Charles so he's making him plow his way through them . . the cliff-note version, as it were. Meanwhile, Sebastian and Claudine, Miss Sinister, have Daken and are attempting to sway him over to their side. Miss Sinister is attempting to do a little mental manipulation, but she's found that Romulus has actually placed some traps there, for whomever may attempt to sway this young man. So now she's just going to resort to the old-fashioned way . . . flirting, seduction, and good old-fashioned sexual manipulation. Is it just me, or is anyone else the least bit disturbed that Miss Sinister is actually Mr Sinister, Nathaniel Essex, in a new cloned body? I mean, the male/female thing isn't my point, but . . I'm talking about how easily he/she slips into the feminine role and way of thinking. Especially considering that she was a he for . . I don't know . . probably 100 years or so. Also, Sebastian has set up a trap for Logan, because naturally he's going to assume that if the Hellfire Club took Daken, that they'll take him back to their mansion in New York. Like I said, I'm really enjoying this story and the way that Mike Carey is handling it . . and all of these characters. I also think that Scot Eaton is doing a tremendous job with the pencils. You could really feel the rage and frustration emanating from Logan through the panels in this book. Truly, a fantastic job. I can't wait to see where we go from here. The next chapter will be in Wolverine Origins . . #29.

Noble Causes #37 - Image

First of all, you should all know what a huge fan I am of Jay Faerber's stories. I think he's doing a fantastic job with this series. But, I'd also like to give some credit to Yildiray Cinar, the artist. I think he's really progressed rapidly, and is doing a great job with his art. But, obviously, that's why Jay's brought him on board. There's been, I think, 3 or 4 different artists throughout this series. Each one, I thought, when they came on board, were a little questionable with their talent. Not that they didn't have any, just that it was . . raw. I assume that they've all been new to the industry. However, all of them, over the course of time, really came to define this series and their particular story-arcs in it. It really shows Jay's nose for talent. This issue, the Nobles still find themselves reeling from the recent events with Surge and his new girlfriend. She's in custody, but there's still a question as to Slate's involvement in the other criminals, Bonechill and Crucible, escape from the island. He opens up to Zephyr, his wife, this issue. He tells her that while yes he was involved, it wasn't for the reasons Doc suggested. All he really wanted to do was protect Zephyr. Crucible was bragging about how easy it would be for him to get to her and kill her. Slate just thought that removing them from the premises was the best way to protect her. Invincible also shows up this issue. He's after Slate's sister, Dusk, for some crimes that she's wanted for back in Baltimore. And there's a development between Rusty and Cosmic Rae that won't be addressed until next issue. As you can see . . the comic is basically a super-powered soap-opera. Seriously! But that's why I like it so much. There's so many intertwining story-lines going on, that it's hard not to get wrapped up in the story and the characters. To me . . that's the sign of a great book. And I love this one. If you haven't been reading this one . . you should. It really grows on you fast.

Echo #7 - Abstract Studios

Terry Moore is just a fantastic story-teller. I love his work. He's not moving Julie's story along very fast, but that's ok. He's introducing other characters that I think are going to affect her future, or vice verse. This issue Ivy Raven, from the National Security Branch, makes contact with Dillon. She's trying to talk him down, to get him to turn themselves in, but . . he wants some confirmation as to what's happened to Annie also. That's information that, I think, either Ivy doesn't have, or isn't in the position to share right now. And this guy that we see on the cover? He's on the road right now, hitch-hiking, I believe, to the point in which his path will cross with Julie and Dillon's. And the end of this issue, Julie and Dillon are talking about what they should do next. Outside it's raining and storming. Julie says that Dillon is making her vibrate. Next thing they know there's a huge explosion outside. The power goes out, but they're not affected. However when they look out the door, for the monkey that's been chained up to the post during this whole storm . . . they find that he and their other friends have been blown apart with body parts and intestines strewn everywhere. This doesn't bode well for their innocent plea. Anyways, I love the way Terry crafts these tales. He has a way of really drawing the reader into the story. I really feel that this series is starting to come into it's own. At first, I'm sure, there were comparisons to Strangers. Julie, after all, does have more than a passing similarity to Katchoo. And Terry's art is exactly the same as that series, and in black and white. But with 7 issues under his belt now, I think that this series has come into it's own as a separate entity. Which it obviously is. I find myself eager to read this title every month, and wanting to know what's going to happen to Julie and this 'suit' that she's wearing. Terry . . . thanks!

WildCATS #4 - WildStorm

This was an interesting book. I still have to ask though, with the rest of the world completely without power or tech, how is it that this team has an android, a cyborg, and a working ship? I'm just wondering. Anyways, last issue our team went to Nevada to see what's going on with this lush forest that's popped up out of nowhere. They think it has to do with some nanotechnology that was used to create the Nevada Garden. However, when they go to investigate they find Paris, from StorwWatch PHD, and some hybrid animals and previous WildCAT team members. After some macho posturing by Paris and Grifter, Priscilla figures out that it's a meta that's creating the forest. Specifically, Tumbleweed. He was in the Number of the Beast mini-series. He was one of the metas that was a prisoner of the government. You know . . the one that was kind of like a Swamp Thing type character. Apparently he decided to do something productive with his powers. He's talking to Paris . . "I saw you and your animals. Heard you talking to them. I wanted to help. I . . I'm sorry. I just wanted there to be a one place in the world that was better off for our having been set free." Hadrian is looking for some way to 'fix' the world, but Tumbleweed has to be in the forest he creates in order to sustain it. So a more widespread application isn't feasible. So without anything to take home they head back to Los Angeles. The problem is . . they don't realize a Daemonite hoard is waiting for them in the streets. I think Christos Gage is doing a decent job with these characters. There a few leaps in logic, but . . it is a comic book after all. I just hope the thing with the power is explained. Neil Googe is still the artist and he's still doing a fantastic job. I really enjoy his work. My only comment is . . I'd really like to see him get a bit more creative. He's taking a pretty straight on approach to this series . . but I know he has that creative side to him. He likes to bend the rules. I'd like to see that some more. Anyways I've always enjoyed this team and I'm glad to finally see them back in a regular monthly title.

Final Crisis: Submit - DC

I'm sorry, I put these in the wrong order. You should read Submit before you read Final Crisis #4. It's not a huge priority, but it does help to explain things a bit clearer. This book, I think, was about explaining what the Justifiers are and how they come to be. Basically, Darkseid is trying to remake the world. To begin that task he's taken over all forms of communication and transformed them all into a conduit for his anti-life equation to reach the masses . . literally. Now, Darkseid knows that the super-powered people pose the greatest threat. They also pose the greatest advantage if he can bring them to his side. After all, they'd make the perfect soldiers. So, as he gathers them up, I suppose the weakest first, he uses them to hunt down other ones and put the Justifier helmet on them, subduing any conscious resistance they might wish to express. Jefferson, Black Lightning, has a circuit schematic he needs to get to his team-mates in the Hall of Justice. However, on his way there, he intercepts an SOS from the Tattooed Man, and his family. Knowing that the Justifiers are monitoring all transmissions, Jefferson knows that he has to aid the family before the Justifiers find them. The problem is the Tattooed Man hates costumed adventurers. So he makes Jefferson's rescue harder than it needs to be. He's trying to get the family to No Man's Land. His daughter, Anissa, and SHADE is there. They make it there, but in order for them to escape safely, Jefferson has to sacrifice himself. But, not before he gives the Tattooed Man the circuit to remember. In the end Jefferson becomes one of the Justifiers. This is really becoming an intense story-line. I thought that Grant Morrison and Matthew Clark did a fantastic job with this issue. Both the story and the art really exemplified the determination and anxiety of the characters involved. Then, this issue leads directly into Final Crisis #4. If you're not on board . . it's not to late. But, it may be in a couple of months . . . for everyone!

Final Crisis #4 - DC

Man was this issue intense. For some reason that I don't understand, it appears that Turpin in the only 'human' that's been able to resist the anti-life equation . . so far. But that's not for lack of Desaad's attempts at figuring it out. And, I guess because of his uniqueness, he's been allowed to bear witness to the rebirth of Darkseid . . . albeit through a cloud of agony, misery and I'm sure a drug induced perception. Meanwhile, the 'heroes' have gathered at 'watchtowers' across the globe . . 6 to be exact . . circling it. They're attempting to take in as many survivors as possible, and to marshall their forces in specific areas so that they can mount a defense . . when the opening provides itself. However, I don't think that's going to be anytime soon. We do get a couple of hints though this issue. First is the Tattooed Man that has arrived, at Jefferson's bequest, to deliver the circuit pattern to them. He's seems a lot more focused and determined now than when Jefferson first came upon him and his family. He shows them the circuit, but we don't know exactly what the importance of it all is. And, in the skirmish, Oliver becomes a Justifier. Secondly, Barry and Wally have a reunion, of sorts, before going out to find the rest of their families. The first person they come to is Iris, but she's been taken over by the anti-life equation. But that doesn't stop Barry from wanting to embrace her and kiss her. When he does, we see that there's something about the Speed-force that seems to counteract the control that the equation holds over the recipient. We also see that Mister Miracle seems to know how to save the world when he arrives at Castle Checkmate. Unfortunately, he's shot before he can tell them what he's got in mind. However, right now, we're not sure who it was that shot him. These are all answers to the threat that is Darkseid, but we don't know yet how they can be used to save the world. And, at the end of the issue, we see that the newly risen Darkseid has given the sign that he wants . . " . to summon a day of holocaust that will never end!" Obviously, with the feel that Grant Morrison has given this series, and this whole story-line over-all, things are going to get a lot worse before they get better. To me, it appears that the 4th World gods . . Darkseid, Dessad, Granny Goodness, and the rest . . know that they're being ushered into the inception of the 5th World. I think they're just trying to be in control of how it happens. But, that raises the question, where are all of the New-Gods . . Lightray, Orion, Metron, and the rest. If the Gods of Apocalypse are here in human form . . shouldn't the gods of New Genesis be around some where also? And if they are, I can't believe that they'd let the masses of Earth fend for themselves against the forces of Darkseid. Also, I have to say, the artwork of JG Jones is simply stupendous. There's a splash page in the middle of this book showing the aftermath of the battle in Bludhaven. It is phenomenal. It really express' the depth of resistance that 'humans' are willing to express to stand up for their beliefs. The hopelessness and carnage expressed on these 2 pages is almost overwhelming. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. There are so many panels, throughout this book, that really express the feelings and subtext of the story intricately. It really is the perfect fusion of story and art. It's beautiful in it's accomplishments. However, because of the way that this series is put together, with all of it's various off-shoot books, it's hard to know the whole story until you read the rest of the issues. But so far, I feel, that this series is fantastic. I can't wait to see what happens next.

Hellblazer #248 - Vertigo

I've said this over and over, the last few issues of this book, but I honestly think that Andy Diggle is the perfect writer for this series. In my opinion he's really brought a new spark of life back to this book. It just feels like his point of reference, or experiences, or interests . . whatever the source of his inspiration . . aligns perfectly with the subtext and feel of this book. And I honestly think that because of the infusion of his ideas and stories presented here . . it's overflowed into the pencils of Leonardo Manco. Leonardo has been on and off this book for quite a while now, but I think that the stuff he's been doing for Andy's stories are the best he's ever done. Creatively, I think this book is right on track with these guys. The best it's been in quite a while now. This story kind of wraps up the Mako story-line. Mako has been searching for Constantine. In doing so he's been taking out quite a few of his friends and colleagues. But he's never actually seen, or gotten to, John. To do so, he's aligned himself with this Lord Burnham. And really the only reason for the cooperation is because Mako needs the Hell Mirror that Burnham has in his possession. So, Lord Burnham as offered him the mirror in exchange for a soul cage. Basically, it's a trinket that will capture his soul after he dies. But he's filled the cage with all of his earthly delights, in hopes of spending eternity enjoying the things he does the most. He's about to pass over. He's got Mako in the cage putting in the final touches . . he doesn't want to lose interest over the course of time . . when Burnham shows up early . . unexpectedly. Only, it's not Burnham . . it's Constantine. John's going to take 2 birds out with one stone. First he traps Mako in there, by severing his connection to his power source, then he abides the Lords wishes by helping him to pass over. The only thing is . . John has removed all of the things the Lord wanted in there. It'll be Burnham and Mako, trapped in there together, forever. And then . . he destroys the mirror. But John's dissatisfied with the outcome. It's all been wrapped up to neatly. "I like loose ends. I trust looses ends. Real life is supposed to be messy, but this . . . this all feels a bit too neat. A bit too orchestrated. Like someones been pulling my strings." By the end of the book he finds out that it's been . . . himself? This should be an interesting wrap-up next issue. I really love the direction this books taken in the last year or so. By the way, as I'm doing this, I'm listening to Cemetery Gates by Pantera, and Master of Puppets by Metallica. I can't believe how well both of these songs fit with the feel of this book. Serendipity!

Birds of Prey #123 - DC

I love this book. It's one of my favorite team books out there. I think what I like about it is that it doesn't follow the traditional team-book formula. The core team is Babs, Huntress and Zindy. But then there's a half-dozen or so other characters that rotate in and out of the line-up, depending on the needs of the current operation. This issue, they include Misfit and Infinity, the new rather ambiguous character that Babs made the other team-members aware of last issue, and . . the Calculator. They need his help because there's information he's been withholding from them that he knows about the Silicon Syndicate. So, for this issue, and maybe the next one or 2, they're going to have to accept the help of a strange bedfellow. Their words . . not mine. Oh yeah, and what about the Joker. Well, he goes in to the building and confronts Babs, but . . . he doesn't remember who she is. She ends up convincing him that her only involvement is that she heard some motorcycles and found a Blackhawk jacket back in her alley. He appreciates her moxy . . she doesn't appear scared of him, which impress' him . . plus the arrival of actual police officers . . so he departs without any damage. However, at the end of the issue, as the Joker is driving to the airport . . that's where the Calculator has taken the team . . it dawns on him . . . "Hold the phone! Gordon's little girl. Right in front of me, and I didn't even recognize her?! I wonder what postage is on a severed head to Gotham?" So next issue, apparently, will be their actual confrontation. I do have one question though, is the Calculator working with the team, or with the Syndicate? The Birds think that he's offering to give up to the Syndicate, but when he lets them know that he's at the airport they immediately respond in force. "The Calculator has delivered our enemies. Converge on Hilby airfield. Bring all available back-up. I will engage them until you arrive. Failure to comply, and you forfeit Syndicate membership." Oh, and in case your wondering, when the team confronts the Calculator, they convince him that Infinity is actually Oracle. I like what Tony Bedard is currently doing with this title. I like the way that he's handling the characters and the story-lines. Michael O'Hare appears to be the new artist. His stuff is good, but I don't think his inker is doing him any favors. He's using a lot of heavy lines and shadows, and it kind of seems to be bogging down the work. I guess I just don't like the look that he's given the Joker. Anyways, I just think his stuff could be really good with the right inker. And of course we have another fantastic Stephane Roux cover.

Superman: New Krypton Special - DC

This was a great in-between issue. The first part of the book wraps up some of the loose ends around the Brainiac story-line. We also get some more insight into the Atlas story-line, and who's actually behind this assault on Superman. And, we see the beginning of the New Krypton story-line, in which the world is going to become overrun by the inhabitants of Kandor once they start to absorb and feel the effects of the yellow sun. From the Brainiac story-line, we see Clark dealing with the death of his father . . again. Honestly, through the course of his history, isn't this like the 3rd or 4th time it's happened? But, regardless, it was still moving. It also displays his incredible restraint. That should be listed as one of his powers. As much as he wants to go to where Brainiac is, and beat him to a bloody pulp . . he's actually daydreaming about it . . he knows that he can't because it wouldn't be right. But he's still questioning . . "Brainiac's still alive and my father's not. My father's dead, Lois, and there's nothing I can do." This part of the story is done by Geoff Johns and Gary Frank. It's incredibly moving. We then move on to Agent Assassin and the new toy they have in their arsenal against Superman . . Brainiac. They've got him hooked up to everything they can and they're attempting to access the incredible amount of information that he has stored within his brain. But you just know that's not going to turn out well. But we do find out that the person that's actually behind this whole thing is someone we all thought was dead . . . General Lane . . Lois' father. At the end of this issue, he recruits Luthor, out of incarceration, to aid in his endeavors. This part of the story is intertwined with the citizens of Kandor adapting to their new surroundings. Superman expanded the city in the arctic, near his fortress of solitude. They're glad to finally be out of the bottle, but as they powers begin to manifest, they become more and more restless. They're ready to go out and explore New Krypton . . er . . I mean, Earth. This part of the story is brought to us by James Robinson and Sterling Gates, with art by Renato Guedes and Pete Woods. This issue was a good segue into the new story-lines that will be populating the Superman titles in the coming year. It wrapped up a little of the old, and asked some new questions for the future. I think it's going to be a good year to be a Superman fan.

Tangent: Superman's Reign #8 - DC

This is the issue that everything has been building to . . . Superman vs Superman and Powergirl vs Powergirl. Last issue the Tangent Superman, Powergirl and Orion came to our Earth. I guess they learned about it from one of our own heroes that they were holding captive. Don't worry, they aren't a traitor, the Tangent Superman has mental abilities. Anyways, I guess he decided to come here because he was basically bored with his own. I mean he has absolute rule, and nobody to oppose him, so . . what else is there for him to do. Anyways, this all happened just as our heroes, with the aid of the Tangent Green Lantern, were descending upon the Tangent Superman's fortress. They were going after him to release their comrades. If the rest of the Tangent Earth knew that Superman was no longer there, I would think that there would be riots in the streets. Fortunately, they don't know yet. But Batman thinks he might know of the one weapon that would be able to defeat him, should he return. I like the story that Dan Jurgens is weaving here. I really liked these characters the first time around, but it seemed like our visit was very short. I'm glad that they're expanding upon those beginning chapters here. I do have to say though that I don't like Wes Craig art in the last couple of issues. He did some other stuff, I think for WildStorm, that I did like, but I'm definitely not impressed by what I'm seeing here. Matthew Clark and Jamal Igle started out doing the pencils for this series. I don't understand why they couldn't continue, it's not like they haven't done multiple books before. Especially Jamal. Anyways, to me, that's the only thing that takes away from the second half of this series. Well . . that and . . right now we seem to be focusing more on our Justice Leaguers. The Tangent characters almost seem to be taking a back-seat. Well, except Superman and Powergirl that is. Anyways, I just hope they showcase some more of the Tangent heroes during the final 4 issues of this series. That's what this book is about after-all, right?

Blue Beetle #32 - DC

The main part of this story dealt with Polaris, and how Neal Emerson's role and power were usurped by a ruthless corporate suit by the name of John Nichol. The only thing that kind of seems a stretch to me is that John said he became obsessed with Neal's work. So much so that he bought an read all of his books and Cd's. And through that, within six weeks, he began to develop his own powers. Um . . hello? I know sometimes in comics we take a leap in logic, but . . that's like jumping over the Grand Canyon. Then, apparently, when he was strong enough he beat Polaris . . powers vs powers. He claims that Emerson lost because of his insanity . . it made him weak. To me, there's only one explanation . . . John is actually Emerson. His insanity has split off his personality into a divergent life and he doesn't even realize that he and Emerson are one in the same person. Otherwise . . this is to great a leap for even me to swallow. The other part of this story, Blue Beetle traveling to Mexico to find the 3 guys that exhibited magnetic powers . . is kind of anti-climatic. Somehow Traci is drawn in to he and his father's plans, and they find out that the whole ruse was actually a trap set by Polaris. However, when it's sprung, Polaris is involved in something else and thinks that his plans for tomorrow are much more important. I appreciate that Matthew Sturges has taken over the scripts on this book, but . . I think he's attempting to make this book a little to complex to fast. While I enjoy a multi-faceted book . . this one currently has about 4 story-lines flowing around . . I'm not sure that type of book suits this character. Jamie isn't really all that complex of a person. He's a teenager who was saddle with this power, so now he has to learn about it. And, at the same time, try to not let it affect his family or relationships. He really hasn't had a lot of hardship or loss in his life. That's not to say that I don't think this book has a lot of potential. I really think it does. I think Jamie's recent involvement with the Teen Titans helps to illustrate that. But, I think he still has a long way to go. Unfortunately, in the current comic environment, and the economy, I'm not sure how much longer this title will be able to hold out before it's cancelled. Honestly . . I'm surprised it hasn't been already. Sorry!

Tiny Titans #9 - DC

I think this will probably be the last time that I stick this book in this blog. It's not that I don't enjoy it . . I think it's humorous. But, I don't really have anything to add about what I think or feel about this title. I've said over and over how I appreciate this Johnny DC line because it gives the younger readers a format to get starting into this hobby. Also it gives them access to characters that they might not otherwise see of feel inclined to read. But, as a more mature reader, this title, as with the Super Friends, seems a lot more pedestrian than the other titles I'm reading. Yes it's a nice change of pace from the other more somber and involved story-lines, but, really, I feel pretty much the same about every issue. And, it's not like there's any important story-line going on here that affects anything in the DC Universe. I feel like I'm just repeating myself, month after month. So, I think I'm going to drop this one from the list here. As with Super Friends, I'll probably still pick it up . . . I'm just like that, but I just don't feel like I have anything new to express about the title.