Secret Six #6 & #7 - DC

Well, I had every intention of only doing the one issue here. After all, I thought that this issue was the culmination of this first story-arc. However . . I was wrong. The story actually wraps up in issue #7, so . . since that one is also in my stack . . I thought I'd include it also. What the heck? First of all, I want to say that I think Nicola Scott is doing a tremendous job on this series. I first noticed her art in Birds of Prey, and there I thought she had tremendous potential. However, I think that she's only gotten better. I love the life that she's brought to these characters. Of course, none of that would even be possible without Gail Simone's fantastic scripts. These 2 definitely seem to work very well together. Anyways, issue #6 has the characters still in Las Vegas and dealing with their recent knowledge that Junior, one of the major players that's also after Neron's "get out of hell free" card, is actually Ragdoll's sister. So now, not only do they have to deal with her, but they also have to get Bane out of her clutches. Of course all of that works out, but now Junior is also after our miscreant team because they've all seen her true face. This bothers her so much that she even shoots her own henchman because he's seen her. Also it looks as if this Jeanette may be joining our rag-tag sextuplet of anti-heroes here. First of all, she's jonesing for Floyd . . something about her being able to smell or see the death on him. She calls his guns the 'death-bringers'. And we also get a little of her history. Apparently shes 200 or 300 years old. But in the end, none of that matters because Floyd betrays everybody, shoots or runs over them all, and grabs the card and takes off for Gotham on his own. By the way, in Gotham, the Mad-Hatter is also after our little group for the way they treated him during his short membership. Issue #7 shows the team on the road . . Tarantula with Floyd, but the rest of the team on their own. Yes they all survived Floyd's attack. During Tarantula's talk with Floyd we find out that he wasn't trying to kill them, just slow them down so that he could race to Gotham and face down the hell-storm that's waiting for them on his own. He was actually trying to help them . . maybe even save them. He just has a weird way of showing all those friendly emotions. Anyways, long story short, when they all meet up in Gotham there's a huge cast of villains waiting for them. There's a lot of fighting, but in the end Tarantula and Junior are fighting on the bridge and all of the bad-guys with energy powers blast them at the same time. They both go up in flames and off the bridge. During the fight Tarantula stated that she had the card which is how she and Junior got so close. So, upon their deaths, it appears that there's no more card, so . . no more fighting. After all, who's going to pay them now? Everyone takes off in their own direction, and with Jeanette our group has it's 6 again. It's funny how that works. Oh yeah, and in the final panels we find out that Scandal actually has the card. I made a mistake in previous blogs thinking that this title was a mini-series. I'm actually very glad that it's not. I enjoy everything about this title . . the writing, the art, and the characters. And I'm sure under Gail and Nicola's guidance . . the best is yet to come.

Adventure Comics #0 - DC

First of all . . this book is only $1. Yay!! I think that's a tremendous idea to get people to buy into this new series. And it has a great Aaron Lopresti cover. Yes this issue is mostly all a reprint . . issue #247 of the original Adventure series where Superboy and the Legion first met, but . . . it's the first meeting of Superboy and the Legion. It's classic and pivotal to the future of the DC Universe. This is the stuff I don't mind seeing reprinted . . rather than some lame story from the 80's that most people probably already have the original issue . . . as is done by the 'marvel-ous' competition. It's by the classic team of Otto Binder and Al Plastino. However, this issue we also get the first installment of the 'Origins & Omen's' back-up stories. I'm not sure if they're all going to be written by Geoff Johns, but . . that would be incredible. It appears that these stories are going to be some of the prelude into Blackest Night. The stories are narrated by Scar . . the Guardian who got scarred when she was burned by the Anti-Monitor . . and she's reading from the Book of the Black. Whatever that is. This issue she talks about Lex Luthor and Brainiac, although she warns that Brainiac is not listed in the book. Her omen is about Superboy, Connor. " . . there is another Luthor will have control over. . . but he is dead. And we control the dead. For once I bear witness to the Book of the Black . . and I question what it shows me. The dead will save you Lex Luthor. From Brainiac. From Superman. From yourself." I have a feeling that we're only going to get snippets of information through these back-ups . . . enough to peak our curiosity before the major event starts. But anyways, I'm thrilled that Adventure Comics is finally coming back. I have a lot of the original issues . . . all the way up to it's end with issue #503. I really liked the book and I can't wait to see what they do with it this time.

Black Lightning #3, #4 & #5 - DC

Ok, this is something I've never tried before, but . . I've got all 3 issues here in my stack so I thought . . . what the heck. Let's read them all at the same time. The only problem is, I'm not going to know how the story ends because we still have 1 issue to go. Oh well. It doesn't hurt to try something new. Although I think the hardest part is going to be trying to get this posting to actually come out looking right in the blog post. I'm having a problem with the pictures. But . . . we'll see. As it turns out . . . the hardest part I had was with a little something that Jen Van Meter does with here stories. She does this thing with the books where she has a different character narrate their own story on top of what's happening with Black Lightning. In issue #3 it's Frank Tanner. Ultimately the issue is about him, but in the beginning it's hard to tell who it is necessarily that's narrating. Frank is Jeff's ally and confidant, even helping to design his suit. But we learn that part of that participation is out of guilt. It seems that when Jeff's dad was killed, Frank was involved with setting him up in the right place . . at the wrong time. The Hundred was into him and forced him to decide between his friend Alvin . . . and his kids. He knew that Alvin would gladly sacrifice himself before his kids, so . . . that's what he did. This issue, Jefferson learns of that betrayal from none other than the Hundred himself. Issue #4 is narrated by none other than this Hundred character. At the end of issue #3 we learned that the Hundred was actually this centuries old character whom in trying to find eternal life became a form of emotional vampire. He and his colleagues learned that they could tap into the strengths of the people that lived on the lands that they owned. But this Hundred character soon found out that their emotions provided better feeding. Especially the stronger more intense emotions . . fear, guilt, remorse, pain . . which is why the Hundred, under the guise of Tobais Whale's legal firm, has bought up all the land on the Southside. It and it's inhabitants all belong to him. This is basically what issue #4 is all about . . filling us in on this Hundred's background. Which, I guess, is why he serves as the narrator this issue. He insists . . "I, too, was a man with good intentions . . once. A mere man. Now, I am something else . . . suffering cannot be alleviated. It is the human animal's natural state. They seek it like water finding it's level. Even their finest . . are drawn to it eventually . . . as was I, as he shall be." It appears that the Hundred is trying to mold Jefferson into something that suits him . . . literally. Finally, in issue #5, our narrator is this new Police Detective, Bill Henderson. He's one of the good cops that's still left on the Southside and he's watching Black Lightning to see if he's the real deal. When the Hundred threatens everybody at a track meet Jefferson's school is holding, it's up to Black Lightning and a few good cops to pull everyone's fat out of the fire. The Hundred, and Tobias Whale, are hoping that Black Lightning will show up and in the confusion of their illusionary spell, somehow he'll end up getting hurt. At the very least, he'll watch those around him . . those important to him . . be put in harms way because of his association to them. Which is what the Hundred feeds off of. However, by now, Black Lightning is become and important piece of urban legend to this community. He's begun to give them something to hope for. Instead of blaming him for their circumstances, they come running to his side in support and admiration. They love what he's doing . . what he's attempting to do. This leaves the Hundred depleted, and he dissipates as Superman approaches. Overall, I thought it was an ok couple of issues. Like I said, I didn't particularly like the way Jen had the narration set up, but . . it was still a decent origin story. The part that's really surprised me though is Cully Hamner's pencils. I'm not a huge fan, but I do like what he's doing with this series. I'm not sure why his style has changed for this one, but I like the finished product more than previous efforts. So there's just 1 more issue to go. I think this is a decent introduction for people who might not know the character.

Jonah Hex #40 & #41 - DC

There hasn't been to many times with this title that a story has crossed-over into more than 1 issue. However, this is one of those instances. And, I have to say, in my eyes, this was one of the best stories I've seen in this book in the couple of years since it's return. Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti did a fantastic job with these 2 issues. Of course it didn't hurt that we got some incredible art by David Michael Beck. The work you see on these covers is exactly what we get on the inside also. It really is incredible to look at. I think what I liked about this story so much was that it showed the extent of what the people of this time were truly capable of. I know that we've all seen shows or movies of the 'wild-wild west', but . . in all that time, I think, the truly heinous nature and remorseless convictions of some of the characters of that time has been down-played so as to not upset our delicate natures. I'm sure there are some horror-stories from this time that would make even Clive Barker or Stephen King tremble in fear. Anyways, this story could be the opening of that Pandora's box. What we have here is a left-over from the Civil war. Although, I have to ask, is any war Civil? There's this doctor that learned his trade through necessity after having treated many of the Confederate's dying soldiers. He also began to use that knowledge to torture and maim many of their Union brothers. This practice then segued into a depraved thirst for knowledge and then, I believe, a remorseless liking of his acquired profession. What started out of necessity because of a war, awoke a deep desire to continue his practices simply because he got-off on it. Jonah has known of this man since the war, but when he takes out a family in a small town through rather brutish means there's a witness. When a composite is drawn a $3000 reward is put on his head. Which brings Jonah back up to speed as to this madman's whereabouts. In their first encounter though, Jonah underestimates the man's resourcefulness or tenacity. Jonah is quickly captured and started to be tortured. However, this meeting wasn't planned by the doctor so . . . he has other pressing concerns. While away, of course, Jonah does whatever he needs to escape. Ironically inflicting more damage to himself than the doctor did. And as he escapes to the nearest creek-bed, lying at death's door, he comes across another person from his past . . . Tallulah. If you've been following this book, that's the whore that was being tortured and he helped to escape, thereby getting her retribution on her would be captures. To say the least, she's the female counter to Jonah's character. Anyways, long story short the doctor is in the process of training others to expand upon his learnings and search out their own depravity. But Jonah puts a stop to that. With Tallulah's help of course. And in the end he takes no small pleasure in finding his own ways to torture the doctor before killing him. Jonah warns Tallulah not to watch. "If it's all the same, I'd like ta stay. Watchin' you work makes my blood hot." I'd say these 2 were a match made in . . . well, Texas I guess. Like I said, I thought this was a great 2 issue story-arc, and arguably the best of this series' run. Don't hold back boys. Lets see this type of story again in the future.

Terror Titans #5 & #6 - DC

Well . . I'm gonna go ahead and do issue #6 along with issue #5 here. I'm behind and . . . I just picked up #6 this week so . . I couldn't wait to read it. Especially when I got done with #5. I wasn't to sure about this series when it first started. Sure I'm a huge Teen Titans fan, and this basically is a appendage of that title, but . . it's also, really, a Ravager solo book. But a couple of things came together for me pretty quick with this title. First, I found out that I liked the Ravager character a lot more than I ever admitted. Maybe it was the conflict she created with the Titans, or maybe it was just her swinging back and forth between good and evil, but with this series we've learned more about her. And I gotta say, she's a pretty hot ass-kickin' fem-fatale. Secondly, again with this story, I think the Clock King has gone from being this joke of a villain to possibly becoming a major player in the DC Universe. His only down-fall? He seems to have a major jones for Rose. You know that larceny and romance never mix. Anyways, in issue 5 it looks as if the Clock Kings plans are finally going to come to fruition. He's trained his Terror Titans as best he, and Rose, could . . and they all seem to have passed the trials that he's put out before them. Also, it seems that all of the teen-agers from the Dark-Side Club have finally reached their programming potential. CK plans on using them, basically, as the Terror Titans foot-soldiers . . their infantry. He's even calling them 'the Martyr Militia'. The only thing I didn't like about this issue is what Copperhead does to Teena. He helps her heal, gives her hope, and then when he helps her escape? . . well, that part isn't really explained. He does something to her. It changes her. And it looks quite painful. But, we don't know the specifics, or the fate of this character. Is this something the Teen Titans will have to handle in the future? We're just not sure. It just seemed an incredible waste for Copperhead to spend all that time and effort on her just to betray her in the end. But, I'm sure we haven't seen the last of that story. Anyways, issue #5 ends with Rose escaping from CK's tower and the Persuader ready to snap her neck. In issue #6 we finally learn CK's plans. As simple as it sounds, he wants to spread chaos around the greater Los Angeles area. That's what the Martyr Militia was created for. But we find out that all of these kids aren't actually under CK's control any more. It turns out the M'Gann, Miss Martian, was actually posing as the Star-Spangled Kid. She wanted to stay undercover so that she could use her powers to switch off the control that the Dark-Side Club had exerted over them. And with that, they and Rose pretty easily put a stop to CK's plans. The Terror Titans escape, retreating to CK's 'house'. But he's not really happy with their little excursion. Especially Angelica, Disruptor. He ends up frying her to a crisp. Long story short, Rose and the kids attack CK's strong-hold, defeat the Terror Titans and Rose beats CK to within an inch of his life. Of course he escapes, and is turned on by this resounding defeat. Also Statix shows up and takes out the rest of the members of the Dark-Side Club. In the end though, Dreadbolt, Copperhead and the Persuader escape their incarceration and vow their revenge on CK for what he's put them through. I know these are the bad guys, but . . in the end you almost start to feel sorry for them . . I sympathized with them a bit. I thought that Sean McKeever and Joe Bennett did a fantastic job with this series. Like I said, I think the Clock King has become a major player. Although I don't really like him any better. Dreadbolt, Copperhead and the Persuader have become a team that I'm sure will be a thorn in the Titans side in the future. And . . . with all these teen-agers being dumped in the Titans backyard . . there's a lot of prospects for New Titans. Especially now when their core group is so shallow. Also it was nice to see M'Gann again and get an idea as to why we haven't seen that much of her lately. Maybe she's back for good now? Overall I thought this series was a great success and I can't wait to see how it affects the Titans in the future.

Final Crisis: Legion of 3 Worlds #3 - DC

I've been trying to get to this book for a while now. I know this one is a bit behind schedule, but . . . with 30 pages of eye-popping George Perez art to look at . . . I think I can wait between issues. Add to that the 2 multi-page spreads in this book . . nobody can draw a plethora of characters like George . . and the revelation on the final page, and this comic is worth every penny of it's $3.99 cover price. Unlike some of the other 'marvel-ous' books out there asking the same price. Oh yeah . . . and did I forget to mention that Geoff Johns wrote it? OMG! This book was absolutely fantastic. The only downfall to this issue at all is that the artwork and the panels looked so good that I had to read it twice because I was so distracted the first time. Seriously! I had to look over every panel, take in all the characters, and soak up the nuances of their expressions and emotions. The first time through . . I was a little confused about the story at first. But then I turned down the geek mode and went back through and absorbed the story. It was fantastic. When you go back through it, there's a lot of background in this issue also. We see a bit of Superboy-prime's past . . although if you don't have the 2 issue story where this all began, you definitely need to pick it up . . we get a little insight as to how these 3 various Legions came into existence . . not to mention a snap history of the Flash-family, and . . . we're going to get to see Lex Luthor when he was just a devious hormonal teen-ager. Before his hair fell out . . . shortly. There's a whole lot of fighting and action going on in this issue. It literally spills across to every panel. But, the real story here is Brainiac's attempt to defeat Everyman and his Justice League by implementing his 3 stage plan. Stage 3 of which involves Lex, but we don't really know why yet. But the whole thing culminates in the return of . . . well, I don't really know if I should spoil it for you. You really need to pick this title up and read it . . if you haven't. But, seeing as how I'm a few weeks behind on my posts, I guess it couldn't hurt. On the final page we see the return of . . . . Bart Allen . . Kid Flash! I know the next issue is at least 2 months out, but . . . I can't wait to read it. Take your time George. If it's as beautiful as this issue . . . all will be forgiven.

Trinity #36 - DC

With this issue, Kurt Busiek takes us from the fumblings of the common folk to the sides of their gods . . . Dinanna, Kellel and Atmahn. Here we find out how Le Fey broke their bonds, and their friendship, by driving a spike between them. Well . . we don't exactly learn how she did it, but we see how the changes she's been making in the world have affected these 3 . . the Trinity. They still have the same feeling of love and hope for their flocks, but . . they disagree over the methods that each are using to try to change the world. They each feel that the others have failed, and in doing so has caused them to have to amp up their own efforts to make up for the others failings. This in turn makes them more adamant to their own agendas and less respectful or understanding of their counterparts. And the wedge continues to grow. So Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman haven't disappeared completely, they're just stuck in their own struggles distracting them and making them oblivious to the changes that are happening in the real world. If you can call it that anymore. By the way, terrific job by Mark Bagley on the art. In the back-up, we see that there's still hope behind enemy lines. The Dreambound, the group of misfit characters that have sided with Le Fey and Enigma, are starting to question their role in all of this. First they lost their friend, Sun-Chained-In-Ink, when his essence was transferred to another. Now they see that maybe this world isn't necessarily going to be a better one. Primat discovers . . smells actually . . the Atom within their midst. They capture him but, after he explains how he's stuck also, Primat sympathizes with him. Also they get a little help from SHPERE. That's the robot ball that Enigma created that contains the essence of his lost daughter. It appears that her influence has caused the SPHERE to sympathize with this groups plight also. In a gesture of . . friendship? . . she uses her powers to teleport Ray Palmer back to the JLI headquarters so he can give them the information he has. It appears that the SPHERE is part of the Dreambound now. It also appears that there's more dissension in Le Fey's ranks than either she or Enigma were aware of. Some great insight by Kurt, Fabian Nicieza and Scott McDaniel. All of which are doing a fantastic job on this series. This issue is wrapped in a terrific Shane Davis cover.

Ultimate Spider-man #130 - Marvel

What a fantastic book. I can't believe they're cancelling this one also. Issue #133 is listed as it's last. Say what you will about Brian Bendis, but . . on this book, he's done an incredible job. Maybe he just has a special relationship with this character, or something, but . . this book has been my favorite Spider-man title since it's inception. The thing that's unclear to me, and probably everyone, is that this Ultimatum series, with Magneto's desire to make the Earth, and it's population, pay . . is it the complete end of the Ultimate Universe, or . . is it going to be a new beginning? I can't believe they'd sink this much time and effort into this Universe, and it's handful of titles, just to wash it all away with one of Magneto's doomsday plans. I mean . . they've probably had ideas about something like this happening for quite a while . . the writers and editors, I mean. But, obviously, in the regular Marvel Universe it would be almost impossible to act on those plans. Unless you handled it like any one of the other life-changing mega-crossover events that they've had in the past. You know, the ones where "it's the end of the world", until . . it isn't. But this time? This time they get to finally play it out the way they've always wanted to. And they can make it finite. Which, by all accounts so far, it appears is happening here. While one part of me would love to see them do something and make it stick . . the other part of me is really going to miss these titles and these characters. I really look forward to picking up this book every month and reading it. I'm going to miss it. A lot! But, that's what the Ultimate Universe is all about . . . change, and breaking the status-quo. Which ultimately is why I love it. But ironically, is what they're using to tear it all down. By the way, Stuart Immonen has done a fantastic job with this title since he took over from Mark Bagley. This issue was equally impressive. Enjoy the last 2. They're all we've got.

Young X-Men #10 - Marvel

I really enjoy this book. Much more than I thought I would in the beginning. Especially after going through about 3 different title changes. BTW . . there's a new New Mutants title slated to come out this year. Yay! I'm not sure of the line-up yet, but . . I think there's a few of the old team there. Anyways, with this title, maybe because it's a younger team, or maybe because it's had the same core group of characters for a while now . . . with this title I really feel like I've come to know and care about the characters. They all have such great personalities and interact so well. Which, I guess, is just a credit to Marc Guggenheim's writing skills. This issue he lets us know some more about Cipher, mostly, but also a bit about our Greymalkin also. Cipher's actually been a mutant in training for quite a while now. She's got phasing powers, invisibility . . which includes an almost psychic invisibility also, and Scott and Jean were the only 2 that knew about her. At first. Now, in the last few issues, she's also come to care about these characters and has attached herself to their lives a bit. It seems that she stayed behind in the mansion when everything went to hell and they all decided to relocate to San Francisco. That when Donald Pierce, disguised as Cyclops, reassembled the team and started training them there. That's also around the same time the Greymalkin awoke to find himself about 200 years in the future. Cipher was there when he came sifting out of the rubble and they became friends of convenience. Soon after she started befriending Blind-fold. Apparently though she's hiding from someone. She mentions to Scott that she's afraid for him, this someone, to find out that she's still alive. She doesn't want to put her new-found friends in the line of fire. Which is why she's gone to such great lengths to stay invisible from everybody. But that's not the only problems this group is facing right now. Also, Dust appears to be dying. Hank is trying to help her, but it looks like she may find her salvation from . . . Donald Pierce. He's offering to help, but . . she has to get him out of his jail cell. And everybody is still questioning Ink's status, considering that he's not actually a mutant, and . . . they don't know what to make of his newest power, the power of the Phoenix. Like I said, with this book . . you really get to come to care about these kids. I think Marc's doing a fantastic job. I also think that Ben Oliver's pencils are fitting these characters quite well. He gives the characters a certain feel, and this issue he really made the book his own. I hope he sticks around for a while. I love all the X-Men, but . . right now this is one of my favorite titles.

X-Force #11 - Marvel

Ok! I'm back. Sorry for the little hiatus there. I just spent the last 8 days in sunny Florida. For being the place where dreams come true . . . it certainly wasn't a very relaxing vacation. I have every intention of getting caught back up this week but . . . since my plane came in about 10pm last night, and I had to be up and to work at 5 this morning . . . this might not necessarily be the day for it. I'll try to knock out a couple of books . . . before I completely keel over from exhaustion . . but, I'm not sure how far I'll get. This book I actually read before I left. "Who the hell is Eli Bard?". Actually, the title should read "Who the hell cares?". Sorry. I didn't mean that. Just a little post-vacation frustration there. I actually think that's a diagnosed medical ailment . . . . PMS. Sorry . . I forgot to use my inside voice there. Anyways, this actually wasn't a bad book. Craig Kyle and Christopher Yost wrote it . . as they have been, and Clayton Crain is back on the pencils. At least for the story that was in current times. When we go back to find out about this Eli Bard fellow . . . Alina Urosov does the art. It actually looks pretty decent also. Not nearly as eye-popping as Clayton's, but . . . we learn that this guy was cursed, basically, by Seline about 2 thousand years ago. He's some kind of vampire type creature now. During Roman times she helped him aspire to greatness, but . . . then he fell out of favor. So, in the time between, he's been trying to regain her favor, but . . . he realizes that he has to make a grand gesture or she'll just damn him for eternity. And now . . he's finally found it. It was Eli who had awoken the Spirit Bear that James fought last issue. It appears when I said he was vampire 'like' . . he is, but . . . he can raise the dead and control them. He started with Warpath's tribe, which included his brother. But then it appears that he came across Caliban. So when he approaches Selene . . . "My Queen . . you misunderstand. They are not my offering . . . this is a dead mutant called Caliban. In life he could track any mutant on the planet. But in death, he can find all those lost to the world. Once found, I will resurrect those mutants just as I did this Apache and his tribe. It is those mutants . . their power . . and their souls . . that I offer you." This looks to be an interesting story, and the beginning of what looks to be a lot of trouble for the X-Men. But the reason I'm not thrilled about this book is because of something I've discussed before . . retroactive continuity. I know everybody is using it. But it just pisses me off sometimes. So now we're just supposed to accept that this guy has been fudging about in the background for the last 2000 years and that's why now he going to become a major threat? I don't know . . to me it just seems like an easy way out. A quick fix . . if you will. Like I said, overall I liked the book . . I just don't agree with this method of story-telling. Maybe it's just me.

Wolverine - First Class #11 - Marvel

So far . . this is the first First Class book that hasn't thrilled me. There wasn't anything specific that I didn't like, but . . the whole thing just seemed kind of forced. Last issue Logan was abducted into this 'Pack' by, what else would you expect . . . a beautiful woman. She actually posed as a damsel in distress. Anyways, Logan falls for it, invites her into his home, and then she turns on him. Or, I guess I should say turns him . . . into a werewolf. Nyssa thinks that Logan is her soul-mate. So while Malik, the alpha male of the pack doesn't necessarily agree with her, he can't balk to much because she's his sister. I'm just not sure . . I think it was the whole premise of this story here that I just had a hard time swallowing. You even get this feeling as the story is moving along that maybe Malik is actually Creed. I mean . . he's got the long flowing blond hair, he's the alpha male, and . . . he runs around the whole issue calling Logan 'Pup'. Obviously it can't be him, but . . they went to great strides to get people to make the connection. But there's no obvious reason for it, and . . . obviously it can't be true. In the end Kitty and Jack Russell . . no it's not a terrier . . help take the pack down. Why? Well that's another absurd part of the story. A lawyer that took over the local plant wanted them to cut costs, so . . they started dumping the silver nitrate into the local water supply. Which made the whole area unlivable to the pack that had already marked this area as their territory. So Malik decides to go after the lawyer for what he did to him, and his pack. The lawyer also just happens to be Kitty's father. There's huge leap in logic there, and . . . I don't see how someone in this frame of mind, or condition, or infection . . . whatever? . . I don't see how they can put all of that together. And, in the end . . we don't really know what happens to any of them. It's all kind of . . disheveled. I've liked Fred Van Lente's stories through the first part of this series. This one just seemed really hard to swallow. The artwork by Hugo Petrus was ok. My only comment to him would be that I think he needs to work on his frame flow. Some of the poses or angles just didn't fit. I'm not ready to drop the book . . just yet. But, I was really disappointed in this chapter. Sorry.

X-Men: World's Apart #4 - Marvel

So, it seems that the purpose of this mini-series was to define Ororo. Scott asked her a question a few issues ago in the X-Men . . . "Who are you Ororo. X-Man? Or Queen?" At the time she kind of gave him a vague answer. However, with this story-arc, I really think that she's come to terms with who she really is. Of course she had to fight the Shadow-King with everything that she had in her, but . . in the end, she triumphed. Of course, to do so, she had to give herself to the King. She had to make him think that he had won. And she had to trick him. Because of what was done to T'Challa by the King, the Panther God was looking for some retribution. So, Ororo came up with a plan, which the Panther God agreed to, and he hid out in her mind until the Shadow King entered. "Shadow King. You have much to answer for. No one touches my children." And with that . . . he eats him. So is this the last we've seen of the Shadow King? I doubt it. But . . for now, he's beaten. T'Challa, and therefore Wakanda, has gone back to normal. And, the X-Men are also none the worse for wear. Ororo has decided to go back with the X-Men, for now, and Nezhno has decided to go with her. That should prove to be an interesting situation. And, Ororo has defined herself. "My name is Ororo Munroe. My name is Ororo Iz Adi T'Challa. I am a woman, a mutant, a thief, an X-Man, a lover, a wife, a Queen. I am all these things. I am Storm, and for me, there are no such things as limits." Overall, I liked the series. I didn't appreciate the $3.99 per issue price tag, but . . I still liked the story. Ororo is a fantastic character and I really like how they handed her personality and essence with this story-arc. Kudos to Christopher Yost and Diogenes Neves. You guys did a great job.

Fantastic Four #563 - Marvel

In case you haven't noticed . . I try to do the books in the order that they came out. And, in that stack, I also separate by publisher. I don't really have a reason . . I just do. So as I begin each weeks of books I do the DC first, then the misc. and then the Marvel. I guess I could best explain it by saying that, to me, there's a distinctive story-telling style difference with DC and Marvel. The other titles, to me, fall in-between, but . . with DC and Marvel . . they just feel different. Maybe I'm just crazy, but . . that's just how they feel to me. So, with that in mind, I just find it easier to read each publishers titles together than bouncing back and forth. Which brings me to the point of this. The DC titles I can read and get through pretty fast. However, for some reason, the Marvels aren't that way. For some reason, occasionally, they cause me frustration and feeling a need to procrastinate their reading and blogging. I really can't explain it, but . . it happens week after week. Enough that I've noticed the trend. My only logical explanation is that since I don't read as many Marvel titles, I'm just not as familiar with the characters. Therefore, the stories don't seem as fluid to me as they do with their DC counterparts. But, now especially, with the economy I have to limit the number of titles I collect. I have to stick with what I like, and what I know. I'm really not trying to make excuses for anything . . I just felt that if I expressed this in words it would help me sort it out. I know it's trivial, but . . it's just something that bounces around through my noggin. Anyways, on to the Fantastic Four. First I have to say that I'm really surprised that Mark Millar and Bryan Hitch are still here. They're both incredible talents and I just didn't think that they would stay tied down to this title this long. However, I'm fantastically grateful that they are. I've been a huge FF fan for quite some time, but I've especially enjoyed the last 12 issues or so. Mark has really introduced some great ideas here. And Bryan's cinematic style is simply wonderful. Anyways, the good new with this story is that Ben and Debbie are engaged now. However, the media is in a frenzy about it and Debbie is just starting to think about how all of this is going to change her life. The bad new? Last issue Victor gave Reed a vague warning about . . . his masters. And at the end of the issue we saw them arriving on Nu-Earth. By the time we see them in this issue . . . the Earth is completely destroyed, along with all of it's population. The only thing left for them to do is . . . extinguish the sun. What's next for them? "Your favorite little protege. Our favorite pupil. Can you believe twenty years have passed already? Victor Von Doom? This should be interesting." While Victor sits slyly grinning in his cell. This is a fantastic title right now. Every issue I'm left eagerly anticipated the next chapter. It's nice to see this book in all it's glory . . . again!

Avengers: the Initiative #21 - Marvel

I have mixed feelings about this issue. My primary enjoyment of this issue was Humberto Ramos' art. It was great to see him here, especially on the opening splash page where the Thor robot looks like it's emerging from the pool of life. It looks like it's covered in blood, or placenta . . or something. Christos Gage also did an interesting job with this story. Anyways, the Initiative is in the midst of being decommissioned when Baron Von Blitzschlag bring the abomination back on-line. I'm not sure what he was trying to accomplish, but . . it does get a lot of the members that were getting ready to leave involved . . . primarily Thor-girl, Trauma and Gorilla Girl. Although none of them are very successful. However on the final page of the issue we see the reintroduction of . . . the New Warriors. We also get a glimpse of the Shadow Initiative going after Komodo's ex-boyfriend in Madipoor. But, it's just a 2 page thing so . . . we really don't get a lot of information. Other than Taskmaster quizzing Mutant Zero about her Typhoid Mary identity. I think this'll be an interesting story-line, but . . I'm not sure where it's going to pan out. So far this book is listed up until #24. But, I'm not quite sure yet if that's the final issue or not. I really hope . . not! I've enjoyed this series. I like the characters, and the premise. It would be a shame for Marvel to just discard it and issue a bunch of new team books. However, I really think that there will be a new New Warriors book, and . . . maybe, a Shadow Initiative title? There's obviously going to be something, I just don't know how it's going to pan out yet. So . . I guess my main concern about this title is it's future. It seems kind of up in the air to me. I guess we'll just have to wait and see what the future holds and enjoy the issues that we have left.

the New Avengers #49 - Marvel

Well Luke . . . this is what you get for making a deal with the devil. Really though, the only thing I didn't like about this issue was how easily this whole situation was taken care of. Last issue Luke and Jessica found out that Jarvis had taken off with their baby, and Jarvis was a Skrull. With the disbanding of the Avengers . . or at least Tony's lack of involvement with it now . . they were left wondering what to do. Out of desperation . . he goes to Norman Osborn. Norman agrees to help him because he knows what an advantage it would be to have someone like Luke on his side. Even if he's being forced to do so. So this issue Norman starts twisting some screws with the Skrulls . . mainly through intimidation. He lets them watch while Venom eats 'em one at a time. Anyways, eventually one of 'em gives up their safe-house. It's that warehouse where they met the Queen to get her plans, and somehow when they needed to be transported off planet that's where they went. Anyways, they stake out the safe-house and eventually . . sooner, rather than later . . the Jarvis Skrull shows up. And as luck would have it . . he was carrying the baby. The whole thing is rather confusing to Luke, but the Skrulls only reason is . . "Your wife gave her to me." Luke talks to him for a little why, the Skrull gives up the baby . . . and then Bullseye puts a bullet through his head. All of this was done and taken care of by page 9. Kind of anti-climatic, if you ask me. Luke spends the next few pages letting Norman know in no uncertain terms that he has no intention of ever working for him. After beating up the Thunderbolts and crashing out of Stark Towers . . . I wonder what Norman's going to call it now . . Norman looks out the broken window and says . . "Guess who just made the list." Back at Captain America's pad, where the New Avengers are starting to call home, they see the unveiling of Norman's Avengers on TV. To say that they're a little pissed about him dressing up the Thunderbolts in their costumes would be an understatement. Especially Clint. "Every time the world has gone to hell someone takes advantage of it. Stock market crashes and some dirt-bag parachutes out with a billion dollars. Country goes to war, the mob has a field day . . now this? This? And dressed in our uniforms? Representing something we've dedicated our lives to? Twisting it into something they can sell? No! NO! We don't wait for them to show their true colors . . we know their true colors. We go there and we stop this before it all goes to hell again. We go there and we take back the Avengers from the hands of the Green Goblin maniac! We're the Avengers We take it back!" So it looks like issue #50 is going to be an all out war. This should prove interesting. Anyways, I thought Brian Bendis' story was . . ok. I really enjoyed Billy Tan's pencils. I thought they were terrific. Like I said, my only complaint is about this whole thing with the baby. How do they know it's not a Skrull? What was the point of the whole thing? It just didn't make a lot of sense. But I still liked the book.

Echo #9 - Abstract Studio

This book is awesome. Terry Moore is an incredible talent. If you aren't reading this book . . you really should. The first TPB is out now, so it probably collects the first 6 issues. Look at that cover. It's haunting. I was a huge fan of Strangers in Paradise, so I was one of the one's that was really disappointed when it ended. I looked forward to this series, but at the same time I was a bit cautious. First of all I really didn't think that Terry could do it twice. Sure he's talented, but he really had some magical characters with that series. Secondly . . the premise for this series was a huge departure from anything he did with Strangers. Honestly, I didn't know if he could pull it off. This issue starts off with Julie dreaming about flying. I don't know if she knows that it's because of the outfit or not, but . . she's enjoying it until these 2 wraith-like creatures begin pursuing her. She stays in the dream until they overtake her and engulf her. Last issue she blasted these guys that were trying to harm her and Dillon. So she's been asleep for the last couple of days, I assume recuperating. It also seems like her sister Pam is tuned in to her sister's anguish and paranoia. That's her in the picture on the cover. At the end of the book she also has a dream. But in her dream there's a mushroom cloud in the distance, and the shock-wave takes out her sister and her mom. Only she's left standing holding her burnt doll. What a terrible dream to have. Especially about your sister. I really can't praise this series enough. I love it. Terry . . . thanks!

WildCATS #7 - WildStorm

Well, the group faces its first real challenge this issue . . the Daemonites. And I have to say, as a group, I thought they handled themselves pretty well. But in the end, they win with diplomacy . . not force. Voodoo offers a compromise. "What Los Angeles has become . . it's as close as anything gets to a Daemonite's natural habitat. I'm suggesting a treaty. That we can coexist here. You can subsist on carrion . . the one resource there's plenty of. But the moment you hurt a living person, the pact is broken. It's war between us." The High Lord agrees and the Daemonites turn and leave. Overall the group is pretty happy about the outcome, but they know that sooner of later the Daemonites will try something. So they need to start making plans and training. However, Hadrian doesn't feel up to being the leader right now, so instead they all unanimously pick . . Voodoo. But, at the same time Backlash and Nemesis announce that they're leaving to go join Majestic in Hawaii. This issue finally felt like some of the old WildCat stories. They were working together, fighting a common enemy, and . . it seems like they're finally making some progress as a group. As far as Backlash and Nemesis? I say . . let 'em go. They've got Zealot and Cole. What else do they need. I'm hoping that what were seeing here is that Christos Gage is finally getting on track, or getting a feeling for this group. This then should be the beginning of some more defined stories. I hope. I still enjoy Neil Googe's art. It's not perfect, but he has his own unique style. And I like it. I feel like this book is finally heading in the right direction.

the War that Time Forgot #9 - DC

I don't know why, but apparently Al Barrioneuvo has decided not to pencil these final 3 issues. He made it this far. Why not finish it. Bruce Jones is still writing the story, but it looks like Scott Kolins will be finishing up on art. This cool cover was done by Ladronn. Anyways, this issue, Akisha finally spills her guts to Lieutenant Carson. She's from the future, but the rest of her race doesn't look like her. She's a mutation. Which is why they sent her to spy on them . . she looks more like them. Basically, they've gathered warriors so that they could study them and learn from them the art of war. Although, I don't know why they couldn't have just bought the book. But now that they've been compromised . . GI Robot, Colonel Jape, who was actually a robot, and now Akisha . . they've decided it's time to terminate the experiment. I think they brought in these soldiers from all these different time periods because they knew they wouldn't trust each other. Nobody knew how they got there or why, so . . anybody could be the culprit. Eventually certain members would band together and then when they fought each other they would get their information and knowledge. However, what they never expected . . now that they have a definable for . . they've united and are working together to become a stronger group. They know that their watchers could strike at any time. They want to be ready. Again I have my complaint about these 12 issue maxi-series. If the story warrants that much coverage then fine. Fill up the 12 issues. But, it's been my experience that most of these stories are just dragged out to fill up the 12 issues. Meaning that there's a couple of issues in the middle that are just there for filler. This story may not have been able to tell in 6 issues, but . . it could've done it in 8. Even the Trials of Shazam! series seemed like it was to long. Anyways, that's my opinion. Take it or leave it.

Blue Beetle #35 - DC

Next issue is the last for this series. And honestly . . . the last 5 or 6 issues have been the best of the series. At least it's going out on a high-note. I guess. Matthew Sturges writes this one with Carlo Barberi and Jacob Eguren doing the art. It looks pretty good to. For some reason we see a whole bunch of Ted Kord's rogue's gallery this issue. We even see the Madmen. But the real challenge is these new aliens that have shown up. Apparently they're kind of related to the Scarab. And when Jaime fought the Reach, whom apparently these other aliens were the slaves of . . they all got the message from Jaime's Scarab, over some kind of Scarab hot-line, that they didn't have to under the boot-heel of the Reach anymore. So they revolted. Now, they've come to Earth to ask Jaime to be their leader. "Now we dedicate ourselves to the dismantling of oppressive control structures! to Bring freedom to all!" Among their list of oppressive states is: Kahndaq, North Korea and the United States. And their rogue powers and terrorist cells consist of the Justice League, the Justice Society, and the Green Lantern Corps. It sounds to me like these guys got a little whacked when they broke free of their oppressors. When Jaime tries to tell them that if he's not with them then he's against them. Jaime may be in for the fight of his life here. Seriously . . . now the book gets interesting? We couldn't have got this story-arc in maybe the first 10 or 20 issues? Oh well, like I said, at least it's going out on a high-note. Hopefully he'll contribute to the Titans. We'll see.

Reign in Hell #7 - DC

It seems like there's going to be a lot of stuff that happens in the DC Universe that starts out in this mini-series. We saw in the Teen Titans where Kid Eternity pulled Brother Blood out of Hell, by accident, and delivered him right to the doorstep of the Titans. Satanus has won the war, and sealed of Hell until he consolidates his power, but . . apparently Kid Eternity slipped out right before that happened. We still don't know for sure what's going to happen to Lobo. Right now he's trying to get his hook out of the ground. It seems to be stuck. Much like all the magic heroes from the DC Universe. Well . . at least the ones that came down here. Zatanna is trying to make it to Purgatory. Apparently that's really the only safe spot in hell right now. At least until they can figure a way out. Accompanying her is Sargon and Ibis. Also Shadowpact is trying to gather up their members so they can retreat. Nightshade, Enchantress and Ragman have all found each other, but they still have to find the Blue Devil. What they don't know is that Danny has reverted to his human form, and Jason Blood, who has recently found him, is also without the influence of Etrigan. He's offering Danny something. I think he's offering to switch him back to Blue Devil. He'll be free from Etrigan's bondage, and Neron's, since he lost, but . . "Take this and you will once again be the Blue Devil. Take this and you willingly choose to live as a half-breed. But know this . . . infliction can be reversed. Acceptance is forever." Looks like Danny's got a hard decision to make. Dr Fate is flying around trying to figure out how to escape. But, he better hurry because Satanus and Blaze are looking for him. Also, Black Alice is up to something, but we don't really know what that is yet. Also Doctor Occult and the Supergirl Angel . . do you remember her from the last series? . . . they're trying to get to Purgatory also. So, either there's about to be a big party in Purgatory, or . . maybe somebody is trying to gather all the magical heroes together in one place. That could prove to be bad for everybody. I think this is a fantastic series. Keith Giffen is doing an incredible job with this story. He's gotta be in Heaven, pun intended, being able to play with all these characters. The arts been fantastic also. Tom Derenick is doing the pencils, with Bill Sienkiewicz doing his inks. Oh yeah, and Chad Hardin does the Doctor Occult series. I've really been impressed by this series. Unfortunately there's only one issue to go. It should be an interesting one.

Legion of Super-heroes #50 - DC

A couple of things bother me about this issue, but before I get to them, I just want to reiterate how much I love these characters. I know this isn't really the end, but . . I'm still sad that this book is finished. We'll still get the Legion in the Legion of 3 Worlds story-line, and . . I'm hoping maybe some more after things there are wrapped up. A guy can hope. Right? Anyways, on to this issue. First I was disappointed that Jim Shooter wasn't here for the final issue. What the frakk? The guys been doing the scripts for the last year or so, but then on the final issue they bring in a scrub . . or scab. Whatever. I'm not saying anything about Justin Thyme's story, but . . . what the frakk? Also, they've replaced Francis Manapul with Ramon Bachs. Now I've got nothing against Justin or Ramon, but . . . these guys have created a great set of issues here. And now they're gone without so much as a goodbye? I just think that stinks. Anyways, this issue wraps up the story about the invasion from the Infinity Net. Basically, thousands of years ago this race decided that there was to much famine, disease, strife, etc in the normal universe so they created digital copies of themselves and transferred their essences into the Infinity Net. From there, they've decided to erase from the universe the source of all of that drama and conflict by wiping all life from various galaxy's that make it up. Brainiac sends digital copies of some of the Legion in to fight, but Invisible Kid wants Brainiac to upgrade his avatar so that he can impress Gizelle. So, basically, with his modifications he gives Brainiac a 'foot in the door', as it were, to the Infinity Net's code and programming. Once he realizes that, it's a pretty simple process for Brainiac to gain control of it and shut down all the Destroyers and intruder planets. However, he has to clone new bodies for the Legionnaires that went into the net because the Destroyers ripped them to shreds. At the same time he makes a body for Dream-Girl and brings her back to life. So . . it looks like the wedding really is on. Overall I thought it was a good issue. I just didn't like that Jim and Francis were left out of the closing chapter of the story-arc that they created. But, maybe there was something to it that I don't know. I just hope that these guys will be back sometime this year.

Batman: Gotham after Midnight #9 - DC

I'm starting to think that Midnight is either someone we haven't even met yet, or . . he's already faked his own death. Well, that of his alter-identity anyways. So, if we think in those terms, that opens up our list of suspects a little bit. And we still don't know that Midnight isn't actually a woman. That's still a possibility. Anyways, I think this is a nice little mystery posed upon Batman. But . . I do think it's being stretched our a lot longer than it needs to be. This probably could've been told in a 4 issue mini-series. Or even 6 if they wanted to make it a bit longer. But . . 12 issues? There's an awful lot of minutia going on in these middle books. I love looking at all of this Kelley Jones artwork . . especially that cover. But . . the story isn't moving along very well. We're on issue #9 so I image that the pace will be picked up in #11, but . . that's still 2 months away. Sometimes I understand the need for a 12 issue series. But, to me . . . this isn't one of them. I've enjoyed Steve Niles story so far, but . . lets just wrap it up. By the time we get to issue 12 . . . we won't care anymore who Midnight is. He'll be captured and put in Arkham anyways, so . . what's the point.

Batman: the Brave and the Bold #1 - DC

This book was ok. However, in this instance, I'd have to say that I like the cartoon much better. I've seen, I think, 9 or 10 episodes so far. And they've had a nice variety of characters. I think this book will go a long way towards introducing the younger audience to a pretty wide variety of DC heroes and villains. This issue we meet Aquaman, Power-girl and Luthor. They do a little bio in the back on Power-girl and Luthor also. That's nice for the kids. I'm not sure how long I'll keep this book in my list. I'm starting to think I'm wasting my time by reviewing them here. But I'll at least do the first couple of issues. I've said this before, but I think this Johnny DC set of books is a great way for the younger audience to get introduced to these characters. With the various titles they've introduced over the last year or so, that same audience has had a pretty wide selection. It's nice to know that our hobby has a future.

Batman #685 - DC

Well, Thomas Elliott is back in custody. Sort of. Actually, Dick and Tim have captured him. He was running around posing as Bruce when he started to attract some attention. So, trying to lay low, he went into Vietnam to try to hide and ran smack into Catwoman. Which is perfect because you know that she has absolutely no mercy for him. Anyways, long story short, Catwoman is trying to break up this animal poaching ring. So now that Hush, "Bruce Wayne", is there she wants to fake his escape and in the confusion she'll release the animals and torch the camp. The 2 Vietnamese men that she turns them over to, for aide in his escape, end up being none other than Dick and Tim. But now . . what are they going to do with the guy? "The fact that you can now pass for Bruce makes you a bigger threat than before. Putting you in jail or Arkham would jeopardize everything Batman has built. And you definitely can't run free, so . . . you're in a private penthouse at the top of Wayne Tower. Only Tim, Alfred and myself have access. Your every movement is recorded and relayed to the Batcave computer." They say he can't escape, but . . you know sooner or later he's going to. And Hush seems to be a pretty patient man. I think he can wait around for a while. This issue was brought to us by Paul Dini and Dustin Nguyen. Overall I thought it was a pretty good issue. From the cover I was afraid they were going to show us how Catwoman had decided to be all evil and everything again. I think she's going to maintain her criminal reputation, but . . she has a different 'work ethic' than some of the other Faces of Evil. It'll be interesting to see what the future holds for her.

Superman #684 - DC

This cover of the Parasite by Alex Ross is amazing. I really like the way he's portrayed him. Jesus Merino does the art for the interiors and actually, his portrayal of him is equally impressive. I like that way that they've made his skin look like it's plastic bag that's been pulled tight over his face. It's really creepy looking. This issue give us a lot of the history of the Parasite. We know that he's Rudy Jones, but he's thinking clearer now. Ever since he absorbed Torval Freeman, the scientist. For some reason, Torval's thoughts seem to be sticking with him. But, what he's really yearning for is Mon-el. When they took Parasite back to Stryker's, Mon-el showed up to warn him of Zod's escape from the Zone. Somehow the Parasite gets through the projection and holds on to Mon-el for a little while. Now? Now he's got the taste for some Daxamite. They locked him up afterwards, but . . he had just enough of Mon-el's power to escape. But, now that it's gone, he's stuck wandering the streets of Metropolis. At least until he can find a suitable meal for himself. We also get a glimpse of the Science Police. Jim Harper, the Guardian, is their new leader and he's announcing it to all of the troops today. Nightwing and Flamebird meet with Jay Garrick. They've come to ask him to be on the look-out. We don't know exactly what for, but they want to keep it from Superman. For now. And finally, Supes has gone to New Krypton to warn Alura that Zod and his minions have escaped. But, she already knows this. He arrives during a military parade to honor the planet's rebirth. She tells Superman that she released Zod. And as to his location? " . . down on the parade ground. After all . . . he is now the Army's leader." Things just seem to get more and more complicated here. Anyways, I thought James Robinson did a great job with this story. He really seems to be finding his groove. And, as I said, I was really impressed with Jesus' pencils.

Teen Titans #67 - DC

This was a great issue. First we have a fantastic Eddy Barrows cover. Next we're reintroduced to Brother Blood. "Sebastian Blood, servant of Trigon. Ninth High Priest of the Church of Blood. A title I murdered my own father to attain." During the Reign in Hell story-line, Sebastian was released from his prison in hell. He immediately sets out on his revenge upon Kid Eternity, who happens to be there because of all that's going on. And through him, they're both returned to Earth. Literally on the doorstep of the Titans. Through their battle we learn a little about Sebastian's powers and abilities. We also see the new team working together. Right now it consists of Cassie, Red Devil, Blue Beetle, Bombshell, Misfit and Traci 13. Although, I think, Kid Eternity will be joining the team real soon. If for no other reason than some protection. Sebastian seems to be holding his own against the team until he bites Red Devil. Eddie turns back to his normal form, but Sebastian is left with the taste of Neron in his mouth. Somehow though . . that gives him some focus. "This is . . Trigon's will. By defiling me with the stench of another lord, he wants me to see . . he is my priority. Trigon. Not my petty vengeances." He then heads to New Hampshire to claim his new 'mother'. It feels like Sean McKeever is finally finding his groove with these stories here. This issue felt a lot more focused than some of the previous ones. I love these characters but I just want to feel like we're getting back on track. I think this issue is a step in that direction. Also Fernando Dagnino does the art. It's pretty impressive actually. We'll just see how long he sticks around. Overall though, I enjoyed the issue.

Faces of Evil: Kobra #1 - DC

Ok . . Kobra's back and he's one sick puppy. As I've noted before, it seems that these Faces of Evil books are a way to reintroduce an villain and kind of update him to the paradigm that is now the DC Universe . . the villains are smarter and more powerful. They aren't the 'jokes' and the 'b-list' gags that they've been in the past. But the 'heroes' should be grateful, because 'what doesn't kill them will only make them stronger'. The problem is . . I have a feeling we're going to lose some in the process. The old Kobra was Jeffrey Burr. This one is his twin brother Jason. His first order of business is to destroy any part of Kobra that was related to Jeffrey. That includes the Kobra babies that Superman has been protecting all of this time. This book, however, is only his introduction. Apparently he's going to make his face and his mission known across the DC Universe in the months to come. That's something to look forward to. Right? This story was written by Ivan Brandon. He's done a fantastic job here. And the pencils are by Julian Lopez, formerly of the Outsiders. All in all this whole book is pretty cool. I've always thought that most of the DC villains were a bit of a joke. But . . not any more. This is going to change everything.

Justice Society of America #23 - DC

Black Adam finally has Isis back. Faust was true to his word, but . . he kept her revival a secret from Adam. Really, he's been trying to keep her to himself. But you know that couldn't last. The problem is . . this time Isis at Black Adam's side won't be the calming influence that she's been in the past. She's felt the evils of the world, and the hopelessness of it's future. So together they go to the Rock of Eternity to wrestle away the control of it from Billy Batson, the new wizard. And their first recruit for the new Black Adam Family? Why Mary Marvel of course. "Oh, as long as Billy's involved, I'm involved. And I promise . . I'll behave. Mostly." Meanwhile, the JSA is coming apart at the seams because of their splitting of the ranks during the whole Gog incident. They basically kick Hawkman out . . although they call it a 'time-out' . . a period to cool off and regroup. But he's pretty pissed and I don't think he'll be back for a while. And now, they're going through the youngsters trying to figure out who should stay and who should go. Hehh, I just had a flash of the Clash song run through my head there. Anyways, the team is in disarray here, but they're going to have to pull it back together soon because at the end of this issue Billy sends out a distress call for their help. For some reason they're both looking for Freddie. Geoff Johns is still on board, although I believe this is going to be his last story-arc. And this issue is brought to us entirely by Jerry Ordway. This could be an interesting story-arc, and could set the guidelines for the new Shazam family dynamic. Maybe we'll get a new Shazam, or Captain Marvel related book out of this. Here's hoping!

Wonder Woman #28 - DC

This whole Rise of the Olympian thing, I thought, was about Genocide. I didn't understand how or why, but . . she was the one introduced to us. But now I'm seeing that it's actually about Zeus creating a new Amazon race . . male Amazons . . . Manazons? Nahh! He's given them their own island, Thalarion. Like Themyscira, no women are allowed on this one. He's revived Jason, of the Argonauts, to be the leader and the men who died in battle with him as his soldiers. He's also going to create for him . . a son. That son, I believe, will be the Olympian. But these Amazons have a little different mission than their women counterparts. "You will create the paradise this world should have been centuries ago. You will slaughter the dictators and dismember the warmongers. And then my people will join you in the deep sea forever." So, I guess, it's peace through oppression. Right? Anyways, this part of the story is just beginning. It'll be interesting to see where Gail Simone goes with this. Meanwhile, Diana, along with Donna, Cassie and the JLA are at the DMA headquarters trying to stave off Genocide. But the biggest fight they're going to have to overcome with her is that she is in possession of the lasso. Diana keep eluding to it's true power, and potential, but we don't really know what that is yet. All I know is that it seems as if Diana's self-made army is making progress against Genocide. That is, until . . she uses the lasso on her. Oh yeah, we find out the problem with Director Steel also. It seems that Dr Psycho has switched their minds. And this whole thing, somehow has been put together by the Cheetah. This is a fantastic story-line and I can't wait to see where Gail takes us on this journey. But wherever it is, it's going to look terrific as Aaron Lopresti will be providing the visuals. This is a great book and I love where it's going.

Final Crisis: Revelations #5 - DC

And with this issue . . . the Final Crisis is wrapped up. Well . . . sort of. First of all, I should've read this issue before Final Crisis #7. But, I was excited to read it, since I was also reading #6 . . and I jumped ahead. But that's ok. It still all fit together quite nicely. And, we still have the Legion of 3 Worlds story-line to wrap up. But, I don't think that necessarily is going to affect the Final Crisis as much as it's affected by it. I think the Legion of 3 Worlds story-line comes about because of the Final Crisis. Not the other way around. So that story doesn't really have any bearing on this one. This issue was tremendous. Greg Rucka has done a fantastic job with this story. And it's been going on ever since the Crime Bible mini-series. I also think DC pulled an amazing 'coup by getting Phillip Tan to do this series. His artwork on this series has been simply amazing. Anyways, through this story, the Question and the Huntress do indeed defeat Cain. They do it because the want to help Radiant and to help release the Spectre. All they have to do is fight Cain, and all of his minions, and retrieve the sword of destiny. Unfortunately, it turns out that the only way for Renee to retrieve the sword . . is to become impaled by it. But, that act imbues Radian with life, and faith and hope. And it also is the turning point the frees the Spectre, and by that defeats Cain and his army. Also Crispus and the Spectre have a better understanding of their role as god's fist through all of this. From here they go to confront Darkseid. Which occurs in Final Crisis #7. This was a pretty powerful book, and overall it was a great chapter in the series that's been created here. In the beginning, I said that the Final Crisis was over . . . kind of. By that I mean . . there's a lot of things that have been changed, or left behind because of all of this. I believe that more important than this story itself is the changes and effects it's going to have on the DC Universe afterwards. Things aren't going to be the same, or return to normal. Changes have been made, and things have happened that will affect these characters and story-lines for . . . well, maybe from this point forward. The point is, after this series . . the entirety of the DC Universe is going to have quite a different feel to it.