New Comic Review - Star Wars: The High Republic #2

Name: Star Wars: The High Republic #2

Published by: Marvel comics

Writer: Cavan Scott

Artists: Ario Anindito, Mark Morales

Colorist: Frank William

Letterer: VC's Ariana Maher

The pace slows down quite significantly in the second issue of the new High Republic series, as the author tries to set up his team of heroes while introducing readers to some cameos by other characters featured in the works of the other creators. 

Vildar Mac continues his search for his mysterious assailant along with his companion and we get to learn more about the assailant this time. While this issue lacks action compared to the last one, it does end with a cliffhanger that is sure to keep fans of the franchise for the future of the series. 

The art is as strong as last time and it was great to see the landscapes of the fabled Jedha and the various species and races represented on the moon. The depiction of the characters from other creators as cameos was a fine additional enjoyment factor as well. 

All in all, this one lacked the spark and pace of the first issue, but still was certainly enjoyable. I will give this 3.5 out of 5 stars.

New Comic Review - Predator #4

Name: Predator #4

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Ed Brisson

Artists: Kev Walker

Colorists: Frank D'Armata

Letterer: Clayton Cowles 

The new Predator mini-series have gone past its halfway mark, but the author managed to keep the story flowing despite it starting to become a bit predictable. The beautiful drawing also emphasizes this action packed issue to keep fans of the franchise enticed enough for the future. 

This issue focuses more on action compared to the past few, but tries to show more flashy armors and designs rather than focus on visceral battle scene which is saved for the last few pages and tries to introduce a new angle close to the end. 

We get to learn more about the situation Theta is in as our protagonist tries to survive being pursued by more than one Predators. The battle gets brutal pretty soon and readers are kept wondering how this confrontation might resolve. 

The drawing by Kev Walker seems to very well suited for the futuristic action scenes and his take on the beloved Predator armors are very eye catching and detailed.

Despite having quite a few positive, some of its issues do hold this issue back somewhat. All in all, this one gets 3.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Batman #129

Name: Batman #129

Published by: DC comics

Writter: Chip Zdarsky

Artists: Jorge Jimenez, Leonardo Romero 

Colorists: Tomeu Morey, Jordie Bellaire

Letterer: Clayton Cowles

Zdarsky keeps his Batman run as tight and entertaining as ever in this issue, as we experience the mental and physical chase game that continues between Batman and his creation. The tension keeps building throughout the issue and culminates in an ending, that is sure to keep readers shivering with chills (pun intended) till the next outing. 

It begins with Failsafe figuring out the hiding place of Bruce and then the rest of the issue deals with the two of them trying to outmaneuver each other as Failsafe continues his relentless pursuit to kill Batman. And the ending once again will leave readers in a quite a predicament as it did to our hero. 

The art team once again delivered some fascinating action scenes. I really loved Jimenez's drawings of Aquaman in this one and his facial expressions seem to be getting better as well. 

The side story featuring the Joker detailing the adventures of the early days of Zurr-En-Arrh gets more interesting this time with duality and moral struggles of being a vigilante who has to deal with psychopathic killers and once more I was left wondering how this might tie into the main story in the future. 

Overall, another great issue, another 4.5 stars out of 5 from me. 

New Comic Review - Detective Comics #1065

Name: Detective Comics #1065

Published by: DC comics

Writers: Ram V and Simon Spurrier

Artists: Rafael Albuquerque and Hayden Sherman

Colorist: Dave Stewart and Nick Filardi

Letterers: Ariana Maher and Steve Wands

Ram V and Rafael Albuquerque seem to have finally reached the level of excellence they are aiming for this time. Coming in after reading their first three issues, the puzzle starts to fall in the right places slowly on this one. And the experience is like a satisfying sense of understanding and appreciation for any reader who was observant from the beginning. 

The Orghams have finally arrived in Gotham with style, and all the players who are affected by their presence and machinations seem to take notice and all the little character arcs appear to be shifting in new directions. Even the side story featuring James Gordon seems to come into play as Batman delves deeper into despair. 

The drawing by Albuquerque is even better than before and his unique use of shades and shadows accompanied by the captivating use of black and reds to enhance the mood by Dave Stewart does wonders here. You can almost feel the chill in your bones as you go down deeper and deeper with Bruce. 

This issue was a pure joy and a serious statement from the creative team, claiming their rightful place at the top as the people who deserve to work on the dark knight. Hoping for the series to keep on delivering on this level from now on. 

The side story by Simon Spurrier and Hayden Sherman stars a new three parter, delving deeper into the psyche of Harvey Dent. I am quite curious to find out how this ties up with the overall plot. 

This gets a well deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Predator #3

Name: Predator #3

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Ed Brisson

Artists: Kev Walker

Colorists: Frank D'Armata

Letterer: Clayton Cowles 

The third issue of the new Predator comics starts with the fight that was expected based on the ending of the last issue. And afterwards, the mystery starts to unravel about the nature of the Predators and about how they are trying to deal with the situation of the protagonist Theta. 

The issue didn't really deliver the action I was hoping for, but it did expand on the plotline and gave some more exposition upon the past and implications for the future of Theta. And ended on a note promising more action on the upcoming issues. 

The drawing was quite strong on this issue, I really liked the facial expressions on Theta as well as the interior designs of the ship and the overall environment. Hopefully we get to see more action in the future from the artists. 

Overall - 3.5 out of 5 stars. 

New Comic Review - Star Wars: The High Republic #1

Name: Star Wars: The High Republic #1

Published by: Marvel comics

Writer: Cavan Scott

Artists: Ario Anindito, Mark Morales, Andrea Broccardo

Colorist: Frank William

Letterer: VC's Ariana Maher

A lot of stuff happens in this issue compared to most modern single issue comic book. My first foray into the comics of the High Republic era was quite enjoyable and interesting. This issue was a great jumping on point introducing readers to the setting of phase II and some of its factions and characters in a fun way. 

We, as readers, arrive with the Jedi Vildar Mac to the pilgrim moon Jedha and immediately get embroiled in the conflicting public opinions and religions while we try to investigate a theft of a religious artifact as well. The perspective of someone new with a traumatic past entering into this place which is as new to him as to the readers was a good way to introduce us to the setting. 

Cavan Scott also kept throwing various factions and species at us at considerable speed, reminding readers of the richness of the Star Wars universe. The plot progression was free flowing and swept us along nicely for the ride, abruptly jolting us with the ending twist and the reveal of the surprise narrator. 

The art by Anindito and Morales did a fine job depicting the beautiful locations and backgrounds while nicely introducing us to this dizzying array of different species in such a short scope. I would have loved a bit more dynamic approach to the fight scenes, though, hopefully this will be implemented in the future. 

The side story 'Peace and Unity' does a brilliant job of introducing us to another new Jedi and showing us a glimpse of the Convocation and yet more new species to sink our teeth into. And the short story also has a nice bit of ironic humor to make it more enjoyable. 

All in all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable entry into the new phase of the High Republic for both old and new readers. 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Star Wars: Visions #1

Name: Star Wars: Visions #1

Published by: Marvel comics

Writer & Artist: Takashi Okazaki

English Translation: Aki Yanagi

Letterer: VC's Joe Caramagna

Those who saw and loved 'The Duel' episode from Star Wars: Visions animated series were eagerly awaiting the return of the Ronin and his world. And after the full length, he returns again, this time in a story by the original writer of the episode. 

The story is a short prequel set in an unspecified period before the episode, describes the Ronin's adventures in a snowy mountain as he battles a band of bandits and encounters a mysterious stranger while travelling with his droid. 

The short one-shot has quite an enjoyable plot once again reminding us about the glorious movies and fiction it so beautifully pays homage to. The dialogue is poignant and to the point, the action sequences are stunning and brilliant. And the overall experience leaves any reader desiring more stories featuring these characters. 

The art is almost as beautiful as the original episode minus the vivid and stylized animation. The black and white drawing inspired by Manga and the use of colors only to highlight the weapons and battles works wonders to create a sense of visual motion and makes the detailed art even more gorgeous. 

I left with wishing this was at least a mini-series instead of being just a one-shot. This is recommended to not only to any fans of the original, but also to any fans of Star Wars and samurai inspired fiction in general. 

A well deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Daredevil #4

Name: Daredevil #4

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Chip Zdarsky

Artist: Rafael De Latorre

Colorist: Matthew Wilson

Letterer: VC's Clayton Cowles

Detective Cole North is one of favourite new characters of Zdarsky era of Daredevil. And this issue is narrated mostly by him. While nothing much happens compared to the last few issues and by Zdarsky's standards, the reveal at the end was quite massive and Cole's side of the view of the story was really refreshing, another great issue to say the least. 

We travel to the secret island with Daredevil, Cole and Foggy and immediately greeted by the new recruits of Elektra and Stick. Some crisp dialogue and minimal description leads us to the unique journey that our Daredevil duo must make, followed by two simultaneous fight scenes occurring in different locations of the island ending in a revelation that is sure to set the stage for the future of the series for a while. 

The drawing by Rafael De Latorre and Matthew Wilson was quite brilliant in this issue. Enhancing the overall atmosphere of seriousness and the violent future struggles to come. I loved how the fights were drawn with excellent coloring and beautiful depiction of faces and eyes. 

This was yet another strong issue in the almost inconceivable and flawless era of Zdarsky's Daredevil. And the future seems to show signs of relenting and more promises of good stories for the fans. 

4.5 out of 5 stars, once again. 

New Book Review - Secrets in Scarlet

Book - Secrets in Scarlet

Editor - Charlotte Llewelyn-Wells

Writers - David Annandale, Davide Mana, Jason Fischer, Carrie Harris, Stephen Philip Jones, Lisa Smedman, James Fadeley, MJ Newman, Josh Reynolds 

Series - Arkham Horror #18

Published By - Aconyte Books

First things first, I got this book from NetGalley, so thank you NetGalley and Aconyte Books for this opportunity.

My knowledge regarding Arkham Horror was quite minimal before reading this anthology. I know it was based on the Cthulhu Mythos by Lovecraft and others. I know there are quite a lot of books based on it and it has a devoted fan base. I was always a bit interested, so jumped on the wagon when I saw this on Netgalley. 

This collection is a very good jumping on point for new reads, the setting is based on locations all over the world, each story has feature people in red in some form, has some very interesting characters and introduces readers to the basic premise of the world of Arkham Horror among other things.

Now on to the stories - 

'The Man in the Bubble by David Annandale' 

We are introduced with the Commissioner Taylor of the Foundation as they investigate and try to locate a mysterious artifact that could be very harmful in the wrong hands. An average story which serves as an introduction to the Foundation. 

3.5 out of 5 stars. 

'City of Waking Dreams by Davide Mana' 

A story set in which Inspector Li Flint comes to Shanghai in search of the Lady with The Red Parasol. Quite an interesting story with brilliant setting, some nice characters and snappy dialogue. 

4 out of 5 stars. 

'Brother Bound by Jason Fischer' 

The story of two brothers, who gets caught in something more than the bargained for, and learns of ancient artifacts and dark magic. This story had an enthralling beginning and some delightful background into the history of cane and sugar tread. One of the better stories in this anthology. 

4.5 out of 5 stars. 

'Honor Among Thieves by Carrie Harris' 

Another story of siblings, twin sisters Mila and Rosa, who agrees to do a heist for the mysterious Sanguine Watcher, but things soon get out of hand quickly. Nice little story with twists and turns. 

4.5 out of 5 stars. 

'A Forty Grain Weight of Nephrite by Steven Philip Jones' 

Our main character Kymani Jones, is searching for a sky disc or Bi with mysterious powers, which was taken by a mysterious organization. A story full of twists and turns and people with unexpected motives and switching loyalties. One of the best stories in the collection, I didn't expect the small little twist in the at all.

5 out of 5 stars. 

'Strange Things Done by Lisa Smedman' 

Another brilliant story, set in a boat that is travelling to Alaska. The main character is a reporter who notices strange things going around him. A different kind of horror, but nonetheless a chilling experience. 

4.5 out of 5 stars. 

'In Art, Truth by James Fadeley' 

A story set in Turkey, detailing about a female researcher who is investigating about a mysterious artist. Despite a nice setting the story is a bit too slow for my liking and nothing is really resolved in the end. One of the weaker stories. 

3 out of 5 stars. 

'Crossing Stars by MJ Newman' 

Plotted as a story within a story, where a mysterious patron tells her new employee a story that might not be just a story. Had a nice beginning but gets pretty predictable quickly and even seemed to drag a bit despite having potential. 

3.5 out of 5 stars. 

'The Red and the Black by Josh Reynolds' 

Set in Venice, it tales the tale of Trish Scarborough, who is seemingly  working to find a red book before the members of the red coterie, or is she? Very enjoyable little story, as is to be expected from this skillful author, with a new perspective and some interesting twists. 

5 out of 5 stars. 

Overall, as can be expected from any anthology, this had some ups and downs. But I did enjoy reading most of it and it most certainly made me very interested in the world of Arkham Horror, where I will be sure to be a visitor again. 

Cumulative score - 4 out of 5 stars. 

New Comic Review - Ant-man #4

Name: Ant-man #4

Published by: Marvel Comics 

Writer: Al Ewing

Artist: Tom Reilly

Colorist: Jordie Bellaire

Letterer: VC's Cory Petit

The amusing and nostalgic journey comes to an end. We finally get to learn about the Ant-man from the future in this final issue, as the struggle against the All-father Ultron comes to a close in this final issue. Reilly tries to mix all of the styles he previously tried in the series to give the finale ever more panache. 

In the first six or so pages Ewing creates a total backstory for the future Ant-man, and tries to explain the reasons behind his time travel. We learn about the devastating nature and the immense power of All-father Ultron as well. The rest of the issue is a fight scene as all incarnations of Ant-man tries to find a way to defeat this version of Ultron. 

The art by Reilly and Bellaire is as gorgeous as ever, they use different color pallets and nuances to draw each version of Ant-man to make each unique and easily recognizable. The actions have an enjoyable and flamboyant nature with Reilly's unique style augmented by Bellaire's exquisite coloring. I also loved the varied method of lettering used by Cory Petit throughout the issue. 

My only complaint with the issue is the overuse of pseudo superhero science in the issue, especially the almost incomprehensible method our heroes used to defeat Ultron in the end. Despite these issues, this was most definitely the best anniversary tribute mini-series that has come out in years. 

This gets a well deserved 4 out of 5 stars from me.

New Comic Review - Star Wars: Hyperspace Stories #2

Name: Star Wars: Hyperspace Stories #2

Published by: Dark Horse Comics 

Writer: Cecil Castellucci

Artist: Megan Huang

Letters: Comicraft’s Tyler Smith and Jimmy Betancourt

Despite not being as good as the first issue, Hyperspace Stories continue to provide fun little one issue stories set in different time periods in the rich history of Star Wars. This time the story focuses on the legendary twin of Luke and Leia as they search for a safe haven for the Rebel Alliance after the destruction of the first Death Star. 

The duo reaches a seemingly harmless planet called Banas, but finds out that this little planet might not be as inconsequential as they first thought it to be and gets embroiled in a new battle for survival against the forces of the Galactic Empire. 

The story, while not adding much to the canon of the overall plot, does provide an all ages adventure introducing a new planet, a new sentient species and some interesting dialogue between Luke and Leia. 

The art was quite unorthodox and definitely not for people who like their characters to look like the live-action counterparts. I myself enjoyed this new look at the familiar characters. The environment and vehicles were done in a unique style also, giving a charming edge to the story. 

Overall an enjoyable experience, despite the low stakes of the battle, I will give this 3.5 out of 5 stars. 

New Comic Review - Batman #128

Name: Batman #128

Published by: DC comics

Writter: Chip Zdarsky

Artists: Jorge Jimenez, Leonardo Romero

Colorists: Tomeu Morey, Jordie Bellaire 

Letterer: Clayton Cowles

It is hard to write stuff about this new Batman run by Zdarsky and Jimenez without starting with readers to stop everything and urgently start reading, especially if they are a fan of action or superheroes. The duo delivers another top notch issue with immaculate characterization and mesmerising action. 

The story continues progressing at a breathtaking pace and we get cameo appearances from several Justice League members. The characterization of these characters was spot on by Zdarsky and his depiction of them and their dialogues feels natural and effortless. I really loved the banter despite the seriousness of the situation. We get a sense of how truly efficient and ruthless Failsafe is throughout his interactions with these characters. 

The dialogue between Bruce and Tim when they separate due to the circumstances was my most favourite bit in this issue. It shines a light on the fatherly aspect of Batman and makes him feel more human than ever, and quite unlike the weapon that always strives to be. 

Some may argue that this setup has been done before, in the iconic 'Tower of Babel' or various other instances where Batman's enemies have defeated his whole team and has taken over Gotham. But it is quite hard to not be influenced by past stories while writing such an iconic character with such long history. And Zdarsky's execution of the story and his handling of the characters makes this such a joy to read and very refreshing and modern despite obvious homages to past runs. 

The art by Jimenez and Morey once again is spectacular. The action sequences are the true strength of the duo with their impactful use of art and colors, making the motions seem to reach a new level vividness. The costumes of these vast array of characters were also detailed quite thoroughly and I loved the facial expressions emphasising on the direness of the situation. 

The new side story by Zdarsky and Leonardo Romero that begins here seems very promising. The story seems like it will delve more into the story of Batman of Zurr-En-Arrh. The drawing is very unique and adds a sense of old school nostalgia surrounding these iconic characters. The cliffhanger does make readers ponder about the future. 

Another almost perfect issue that gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

Magazine Review - Star Wars Insider #213

Name: Star Wars Insider #213

Published by: Titan Magazines 

Release Month: September '22

Editor: Christopher Cooper

Fiction Writer: George Mann

While I had watched the original Star Wars trilogy, parts of the prequel trilogy and some of the animated shows previously, my actual fandom with Star Wars started with the awesomeness of' The Mandalorian'. Then I went back and started delving into the world of Star Wars, both media and prose fictions of the expanded universe. 

This issue is my first foray into 'Star Wars Insider', which I mainly decided to check out for the fiction piece starting 'High Republic: Phase II'. This was a pleasant experience, as while I didn't like everything, I did enjoy many of the contents on offer. 

The two interviews were great. I liked learning of the unused scenes and his experiences from the original trilogy from Garrick Hagon. Loved to read about the story behind Warren Fu's designing of General Grievous. 'Joining the Quest' piece was a nice introduction for the creators of Phase II of the High Republic. The Book of Boba Fett companion was a nice refresher of the story of that series and made me intrigued about the future of the characters. 'A certain point of view' feature about the ships was another delightful little piece. 

Now lets come to the fiction, "Tales of Enlightenment: New Prospects" is a short story set during the High Republic Era, written by George Mann. Only part one is published here and readers have to wait for the next issue for part two. 

The story is set on the tapbar called Enlightenment, where a human prospector named Saretha von Beel tells her story to some regulars of this establishment in exchange for a drink. In her story she details her experiences as a prospector. Her encounters with pirates, a Jedi and monsters.

The prose was quite enjoyable and the method of establishing the setting and the characters also gives us some insight into this time period in the history of the Republic. The short little piece is clearly intended as a jumping on point for new readers as well as to entice anyone interested to start their journey into this era and does a commendable job serving its purpose. 

As a whole, I liked this issue and will definitely check out other issues of this magazine in the future. 4 out of 5 stars. 

New Comic Review - Ant-man #3

Name: Ant-man #3

Published by: Marvel Comics 

Writer: Al Ewing

Artist: Tom Reilly

Colorist: Jordie Bellaire

Letterer: VC's Cory Petit

Well, now I am officially a fan of this creative duo. Once again, they provide another brilliant issue, this time dealing with the most famous incarnation of Ant-man. This issue is packed with funny and witty dialogue, progresses the plot towards its inevitable conclusion in the future issue, while introducing readers to more of the iconic and interesting characters from the Ant-man mythos. 

Al Ewing completely understands the essence of the character of Scott Lang, and depicts him clearly as a family man, a smart and down to earth superhero who is smart and witty but knows when to get serious when the situation demands it. I really loved his handling of Cassie and the LMD version of Black Ant. It was great to see the cameos by some big shot Avengers too.

The most funny thing in this was definitely the banter between the characters, I also loved the father and daughter dynamic and the humorous monologue by the Black Ant. In fact, it was hard to find a misstep in the pages of this issue. And the twist at the end cleverly set up the stage for the finale. 

The art and color by Reilly and Bellaire is as good as the first two issues. Reilly once again morphs his style, this time adapting the modern approach, with using his unique grasp of the medium, and from the help of Bellaire creates a sense of motion while the characters change their sizes and the action scenes. The coloring also works to add up a kind of personality for the different characters with the use of shading. 

Despite initially wishing to write a short review, I cannot help myself from adding stuff to express my enthusiasm for this thoroughly entertaining and delightful little mini-series. 

My score - 4.5 out of 5.

New Comic Review - Detective Comics #1064

Name: Detective Comics #1064

Published by: DC comics

Writers: Ram V and Simon Spurrier

Artists: Rafael Albuquerque and Dani

Colorist: Dave Stewart

Letterers: Ariana Maher and Steve Wands

Well, Ram V and Rafael Albuquerque seems to have finally achieved what they were aiming for with this issue. The prose is much more tight and engrossing, the characters more vividly portrayed than ever and the art seems to have reached a new high with brilliantly mixing the gothic mystery and a brooding sense of darkness. 

The story begins with a beautiful little scene between Talia and Damian where Talia tells her son a folk tale which is presented with exquisite drawings. Then we get to see Bruce once again trying to cope with his health and his loss of family fortunes while trying to piece together the mystery on hand. Then the artistically choreographed fight sequence between Talia and Batman takes center stage. 

The storyline seems like it's finally falling into pieces while readers are still looking for hidden clues and cryptic meaning everywhere. The importance of Talia and the League finally comes to the forefront and Damian gets an interesting cameo. 

The drawing seems much improved this time somehow, especially the opening sequence and the fight scenes. The coloring by Dave Stewart is also top notch, adding an extra sense of mystery and horror to the atmosphere. 

The side story by Simon Spurrier featuring Gordon comes to its end here, leaving a lot of room for maneuvering in the future, ending up with giving Gordon something of a new status quo to explore. The unusual drawing by Dani was once again a driving force for this short little noir inspired piece. 

In the end, I will give this one a much deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars.

New Book Review - All or Nothing: A Zombicide Novel

Book - All or Nothing 

Writer - Josh Reynolds 

Series - A Zombicide Novel

Published By - Aconyte Books

First things first, I got this book from NetGalley, so thank you NetGalley and Aconyte Books for this opportunity.

To be honest, zombie fiction has reached such a point in its history that it is almost impossible to create anything fresh regarding it. Almost every angle has been explored, every stone has been turned to the entertainment the targeted audience. Josh Reynolds didn't focus on trying new dimensions, rather he gave us strong characters and some thrilling action bits to tell us an engrossing tale of survival. 

I was a bit sceptical when requesting this on netgalley, as I had no prior knowledge of the board game 'Zombicide', and also because this novel is a sequel of the writers first book based on the game. But, Reynolds did a brilliant job of making this a smooth read for any newcomer into the world of Zombicide and the story stands on its own quite independently despite being a sequel. 

'All or Nothing' is the tale of former career criminal Westlake, who finds himself semi-zombified in Atlantic City. Where he is kidnapped and becomes part of a savage gladiator-styled show for the amusement of a heartless overlord. But, ex-cop Estela Ramirez and her crew of mishap heroes are already on their stop the horrors being inflicted on the humans. 

The story is told through various viewpoint characters, almost all of whom different agendas and act in ways to ensure their goals in interesting ways. The plot is filled with enough thrills to keep the reader guessing what might happen next and keep hoping that their favorite characters somehow survive the ordeals. The story had enough momentum to keep any reader motivated to keep turning pages and some detailed action sequences as well. 

Among the characters, some were very interesting; including but not limited to the dubious protagonist Westlake, the masked wrestler named Calavera, the curiously academic and articulate Potelmy, the highly capable and stealthy Sayers, the enigmatic and mysterious Duchess and the not so generic mad scientist Brewer. I really loved many of these characters and that is what kept this story so entertaining despite the unoriginal setting of a zombie apocalypse. 

Despite wishing the ending had a bit more punch and more instances of near death experiences overall, I really loved the writing by Josh Reynolds and the characters. 

I will give this, 4 out of 5 stars. 

New Comic Review - Daredevil #3

Name: Daredevil #3

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Chip Zdarsky

Artist: Rafael De Latorre

Colorist: Matthew Wilson

Letterer: VC's Clayton Cowles

Every month I pick up new issues by Chip Zdarsky, mentally dreading that maybe this time he will drop the ball by writing something less than stellar. And each time I get pleasantly surprised as he yet again delivers another spectacular issue dealing with the resolve and the beliefs Matt has regarding his past and the direction he has decided to take his life in. 

This issue continues to deal with Matt trying to tie up loose ends before leaving NYC to deal with the Hand. But this time he decides to pick up some more members for his army and tries to sway some of his friends to fight for his cause. On his travels through the city he also visits some of his lingering enemies that needs to be dealt with in the future, as well meet with some new enemies who he has to face sooner rather than later. 

That is the most I can say without spoiling anything of the plot. This issue is a rather prose heavy and lacking in action, but in Matt's world you don't always need action to portray an intense story. This issue is, as always, hard to put down once you start and immediately starts you wondering what to expect from the future issues once you are done, as Zdarsky already has all readers so much invested in the plight of his heroes. 

The drawing does suffer a bit with the absence of extremely capable Checcheto, but Rafael De Latorre & Matthew Wilson does a more than recommendable job of conveying the dire and desperate nature of the situation. 

The last few pages were my favourite nonetheless due to Zdarsky beautifully portrays Matthew's futile attempt at leaving behind his past life and old friends despite the apparent public death of his civilian persona. I just can't wait to discover what the future holds for these characters and for once the brilliant story didn't make me realise the total absence of Elektra till the final page. 

Once again, a resounding 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

New Comic Review - Predator #2

Name: Predator #2

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Ed Brisson

Artists: Kev Walker

Colorists: Frank D'Armata

Letterer: Clayton Cowles 

This issue slows the pace down quite a bit, after the action packed and plot enriched first issue. There is a distinct lack of visceral action sequences present on the first issue. There isn't much presence of the titular character of 'Predator' as well. 

Rather the author focuses more time building on the character of Theta, adding depth into both her inner struggles as well as her attempt of surviving the unforgiving and harsh conditions of the planet that she crashed on in the previous issue. The ending does set up next month's issue to have one intense battle though. 

Despite liking some aspects of the issue which make this an enjoyable science fiction story, my main problem is that this doesn't really feel like a Predator comic at all. The sense of horror and intensity characteristic of fictions associated with the unique hunter species is distinctly absent here. 

The drawing and coloring do the job admirably with depicting the desolate atmosphere of the planet as well as the desperation and turmoil the protagonist goes through. But I will be much more interested to see the action sequences drawn by these two in the future issues. 

Like the first issue, I will give this one 3.5 out of 5 stars once again.

New Comic Review - Batman #127

Name: Batman #127

Published by: DC comics

Writter: Chip Zdarsky

Artists: Jorge Jimenez, Belén Ortega

Colorists: Tomeu Morey, Luis Guerrero

Letterer: Clayton Cowles

Both of Zdarsky's main superhero series' have become so engrossing that it is hard to wait for the next issue each month. And his new Batman once again delivers such an issue, that you have to think for some time after finishing about the references and the ramifications and what the reader might expect next. 

The plot follows Batman and Tim while they try to outwit Failsafe, and survive his relentless onslaught. Elsewhere, Nightwing and Oracle decide to call for some backup and the story ends with another surprise in the guise of a cameo from a beloved DC icon. 

The issue opens directly from the last issues surprise reveal as the author slowly takes us into the origin of 'Failsafe'. The action slows down a little and Zdarsky's inner monologue for Bruce seems a lot more focused on this issue. Despite the author going for the psychological impact on Bruce about his dual identity and his mission versus family, which has been done many times before, his approach and execution makes this tired trope shine brighter than ever before. 

The artists do another superb job, the action sequences are as good as the last issue, with brilliant use of colors throughout. The desperation and anguish is almost palpable on the faces of the heroes and the backgrounds were done quite skillfully as well. 

The side story featuring Catwoman takes a surprise turn in this finale. And rather than focusing on the action this time Zdarsky delivers a different take, writing about how his rogues feel about Batman on the impact he has on their life and what it feels like to start from the scratch. Not a bad end to this delightful little story. 

My score - 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

New Book Review - Star Wars: Be More Obi-Wan

Name: Star Wars: Be More Obi-Wan

Writer: Kelly Knox

Published by: Dorling Kindersley Limited (DK) 

My first experience with the Star Wars Be More series is just what I expected, a fun little self-help book with Star Wars humour thrown in for good measure.

The book is divided into five chapters with each containing five mages with a title line followed by a small paragraph. Even the tragedies of Obi-Wan's life are made fun of through bits of wisdom and quotes from the various characters dispersed throughout each page of the different chapters.

It was a short and enjoyable read. Any fan of Star Wars will surely love to revisit these pieces from the past history of the Star Wars universe and the unique sense of humour present throughout the texts is always sure to cater to the taste of the fans of the series. The choice of the dialogues picked were also top notch and right on point.

There were many screenshots from both the live action and animated features from the Star Wars franchise. I just wish there were a few illustrations present, which would have made me enjoy this even more.

4 out of 5 stars from me, for this short little title.