This is a slightly silly book. There are kidnappings, pirates, ghosts and several swoonings, a light tone, a little romance and a very silly girl called Alice, with a far more sensible cousin called Lizzie. The Mangrove Legacy is a comedy gothic romance and it’s a joy. Extremely well written with some very entertaining asides from the author, especially early on and around Alice’s character, it’s a book you can fly through in a relaxing, self indulgent afternoon.

Although Alice is largely a bit silly and Lizzie while more sensible is hardly the most solid and down to earth character ever, I did find myself very fond of them both and somewhat invested in their well being during their chaotic adventures. Of course they had me at ‘fall in love with not entirely suitable men’.

This is a genuinely entertaining, superbly crafted, somewhat silly and utterly wonderful book. An antidote to too serious romances with ludicrous plots, knowingly tongue in cheek and yet still offering characters you can’t help but like and empathise with and adventures that have you almost skipping ahead to check everyone makes it out ok. It also makes a very serious point about pockets.

Heartily recommended to anyone who has a sense of humour, even if comedy, gothic and romance are three genres they firmly shun under normal circumstances.

Ashley Parker is a mature student (ok not that mature, but technically) dating a nice slightly younger guy and starting classes a week later after a nasty bout of flu. Ashley is lucky, she shakes the flu just fine, but plenty of others in the area are finding it a killer. The thing I love about Fredsti is that no matter what genre she is writing in she has a knack for writing people I adore, I mean really utterly want to move in next door to, hang out with every friday for pizza and movies and just squish with hugs adore. I love the humour and warmth of her leads and the less likeable characters always give me some amusement. Add to that an excellent action packed and well considered zombie story, a bunch of pop culture references that are spot on for me, a pinch of karmic justice, great writing and a generous splash of gore and i’m a happy reader. Why yes Dana I am your target demographic and you find me well and happy and having fever dreams about dealing with the zombie apocalypse.

This is going to be a fantastic series, zombie novels for the Buffy generation and remember folks… Ripley and the cat both survived!

The third book in the Dog-Faced Gods trilogy brings things to a close in fine form.

The story has taken an interesting course across the three books, with the mix of crime and the supernatural initially weighted towards the crime end of the spectrum, and shifting over the course of the series to a considerably more supernatural footing.

After taking a bullet to the shoulder and being framed for murder Cass Jones is most definitely on the other side of the fence now. The former Detective Inspector’s old colleagues are on his trail and while some doubt his guilt, others are certain of it.

Cass is still after the Network, the organisation responsible for the kidnapping of his nephew. Headed by the elusive and ageless Mr Bright the tangled skein of the Network’s control runs deep, from their ownership of The Bank to the manipulation of governments. Despite this apparently overwhelming nexus of power around them Cass is none the less determined to bring them down.

Forced to keep away from his old haunts and colleges Cass has fallen back onto his criminal contacts to further his quest. There’s some honour between thieves but not quite enough to keep Cass safe it seems.

The Network is not the cohesive group it once was, and Mr Bright has to worry about internal politicking as well as his continuing plans for Cass. Not only are individuals challenging his power, but there are other more supernatural matters forcing his hand.

London is again at the heart of the book, and provides the hunting ground of a third serial killer, who’s infecting people with the lethal Strain II virus, filling hospital wards and spreading panic. This time the formula that’s been used in the last two books holds true but is presented in a different way, taking advantage of the readers shift in perspective over the series.

The final book really does bring things together very well. The tempo set in the series  increases and there’s a feeling of foreboding that permeates the book. The bleakness of the world Cass inhabits only grows with the streets of London stewing in their own fear, as well as the more personal issues of Cass’s new status as a fugitive.

The plot brings in new threads that are integrated into the whole smoothly, but Cass remains the centre of the book. The hardened character introduced in the first book has become even more tightened down as the books have progressed, but there are chinks to be found in the façade.

The ending perhaps provides too much of a direct explanation of the world, but it does serve to tie the series off well.It’s certainly not the end to events that I envisaged, or when planned for by Cass or the Machiavellian Mr Bright.

If you’ve read the first two book this finishes them off very well indeed. If you’ve not read the series, go have a look at what your missing.

DC – New 52 #8 Part 3
Batman
Birds Of Prey
Blue Beetle
Green Lantern Corps
Justice League
Nightwing
Red Hood & The Outlaws
Supergirl
Wonder Woman

Not Reviewed
Captain Atom
Catwoman
DC Universe Presents
The Legion Of Superheroes

Marvel
Incredible Hulk #7

Other
Dominique Laveau: VoodooChild

Skipped To The End…

DC – New 52 # Part 3

Batman #8
Written by Scott Snyder & James T Tynion IV
Pencilled by Greg Capullo & Rafael Albuquerque
Inked by Jonathan Glapion & Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Colour by FCO Plascencia
Lettered by Comicraft
Coloured by Greg Capullo, Nathan Fairbairn & FCO PlascenciaThe Night Of Owls begins as Bruce is attacked in his own home. Wayne Manor turns out to be prepared for such an eventuality, but not quite as much as you’d imagine. The Court Of Owls is out in serious numbers both within Wayne Manor and across Gotham city, striking at anyone with public office or influence.

This may be the biggest challenge Bruce has faced in a long while, as the city he’s always thought he’s known proves to have darker depth than he ever suspected. Certainly the reach of the Owls goes further than can be imagined.

The art isn’t the easiest to follow this month, which is a shame, because everything else is good. There’s a mid issue high point that would be the cliffhanger ending another book, and the Bat Cave sees some good use. The Talons are proving to do impressive and implacable villains and it’s good that none of the usual rouge gallery have got in on the action.

Birds Of Prey #8
Written by Duane Swierczynski
Cover Colour by Santiago Arcas
Finished by Javier Pina
Lettered by DC Lettering
Coloured by Jesús Saíz & June Chung
Layouts by Jesús SaízThis month opens on a crime scene, containing a murder victim apparently killed by Black Canary’s scream. As has been hinted at in the series thus far, this is not the first victim of such an attack.

There are some tiresomely descriptive villain names this month. Napalm, Head, and Flesh do not inspire terror but mirth and ridicule.

Although the Choke plot was not fully resolved last month, we’ve moved on as the team fight against an ambush set for them my an agency convinced of Canary’s guilt. Elsewhere Starling is doing some off the books investigation of her friend, trying to find the truth.

This issue looks set to turn things on their head for the group, with Ivy not in evidence and some of Canary’s past revealed.

Blue Beetle #8
Written by Tony Bedard
Lettered by Rob Leigh
Coloured by Peter PantazisThere’s possibly one of the daftest origin stories this month, as we get the genesis of Stopwatch. Determined to create a time machine after a failed experiment with one killed the girl Stopwatch is killing others to further his own ends and build the machine, enshrined in the knowledge that his success will reverse all his crimes. Jamie’s life seems set to kill him through unfortunate coincidence as he finds the trail of Stopwatch leads to a home for runaways.

It turns out the scarab doesn’t know everything, as it declares time travel impossible. Other DC titles would beg to differ.

There’s a good turn around in the last few pages, and Jamie looks set to run into more than a few of the heroes he’s been trying to find over the next few moths. Just not in the way he’d maybe want.

Green Lantern Corps #8
Written by Peter J. Tomasi
Pencilled by Fernando Pasarin
Inked by Scott Hanna
Cover Colour by Gabe Eltaeb
Lettered by David L. Sharpe
Coloured by Scott Hanna,Fernando Pasarin & Gabe EltaebThe Alpha Lanterns, who act as the Internal Affairs department of the Green Lantern Corps, have chosen to take action against John for the death of Kirrt. Altered by the Guardians for that purpose they are removed from other Lanterns, putting duty above all else. They even get their own rhyming oath.

While it’s all about to come home to roost for John, Guy is finding himself in front of the Guardians for other reasons than those you might expect. The burial of the Yellow Power Battery is a major point this month, and Guy’s actions are as you might expect. Crass and opinionated.

Justice League #8
Written by Geoff Johns
Pencilled by Gary Frank
Inked by Gary Frank
Cover Colour by Alex Sinclair
Lettered by DC Lettering
Coloured by Jim Lee, Scott Williams & Alex SinclairHal to Green Arrow “We already got one guy who can’t do anything. If Batman sprains his ankle, we’ll call you.” Whisper “Totally lying. We wouldn’t call him.” Bats – “Thanks”

There is much less confrontation than the cover would lead you to believe this issue. Instead Green Arrow keeps trying to impress the League and win their favour and a place in their ranks. He’s brushed off at every turn, and there’s the serious impression of previous tension between him and Aquaman.

There’s the appearance of the Court of Owls, which is unexpected. There’s also a very awesome splash page with an even more unexpected cameo (although this character does seem to be getting about the place).

The arts a little off. Wonder Woman looks very strangely proportioned in some panels. While the series has produced quotable lines month on month the characters still ring false against their appearances in solo lines. Aquaman and Wonder Woman remain a far cry from being as they are elsewhere, while Hal’s use of the Lanterns Ring bangs against the events in his own book (he’s nailed as a character though).

The Shazam story still lacks a real hook. For all that dysfunctional foster families and kids can be an interesting premise there just isn’t enough drawing me to the setting or characters. Nor is another orphaned hero original.

Nightwing #8
Written by Kyle Higgins
Pencilled by Eddy Barrows
Inked by Paulo Siqueira
Cover Colour by Rod Reis
Lettered by DC Lettering
Coloured by Rod Reis & Eddy BarrowsThe Night Of Owls begins it’s cross over as Nightwing breaks off an investigation into another murder that framing him to defend Gotham’s Mayor from the murderous attentions of the Talons. Interlaced with this we get the story of William Cobb, a Talon that was taken from Haly’s Circus.

There’s far more focus on action this month as NIghtwing protects the Mayor and fends off the Talon. There’s a very nicely done twist that plays on expectat, although the ending feels like itll stretch things next month, in terms of another miraculous escape for Dick.

Red Hood & The Outlaws #8
Written by Scott Lobdell
Pencilled by Kenneth Rocafort
Cover Colour by Blond
Lettered by DC Lettering
Coloured by Blond & Kenneth RocafortRed Hood also gets caught up in Night Of The Owls, but not till the tail end of the issue. Instead there’s a lose end to take care of from way back at the start of the series. Suzie was left with a bullet in her shoulder on a floor in Tokoyo. Transported to Gotham for treatment, she’s recovered enough to take the children’s wing of the hospital hostage and threaten their death if Red Hood doesn’t surrender.

This is dealt with in surprisingly short order by the gang, with Jason placing considerable faith in his accomplices. The high point of the issue is a surprising meeting between Jason and, ah, well, that’d be telling.

Supergirl #8
Written by Michael Green & Mike Johnson
Pencilled by George Pérez
Inked by Bob Wiacek
Cover Colour by Dave McCaig
Lettered by John Hill
Coloured by George PérezOf all the bloody names why does Supergirl have to feature Siobhan Smythe. That’s just a spelling trap waiting to happen. Siobhan’s Irish, ye can tell by the strange wee words she uses in her speech balloons.

The art’s changed this week, which I’m not sure I like. The story also seems to have gone a little flat now that Supergirl has found more of her powers and confidence. There’s too much focus on introducing Siobhan than on Kara as the central character.

Siobhan selflessly steps in to protect Supergirl from the potentially deadly attention of the military. With the fortuitous ability to master any language Siobhan is the first human Kara can speak with. The two make a fast pairing as Siobhan takes Supergirl in, and disguises her. Of course nothing is that easy and Siobhan has troubles of her own that are fast catching up with her, mainly if the form of her dead father.

Wonder Woman #8
Written by Brian Azzarello
Pencilled by Cliff Chiang
Inked by Cliff Chiang
Cover Colour by Cliff Chiang
Lettered by Jared K Fletcher
Coloured by Cliff Chiang & Matthew WilsonWonder Woman gets armoured up this issue as she journey’s into Hell in search of Zola. It’s a shame that that arm guard doesn’t look right, as it’s a clashing low point to what is otherwise gorgeous art.

Diana fights through a very grim hell towards a confrontation with Hades that resolves in none of the expected ways. The take on hell is unique and provides some very nasty creatures, and there are some very nice action scenes. The dialogue continues to crackle and there’s a real sense that events are being set in motion that will have consequences felt for quite some while.

Not Reviewed

Captain Atom
Catwoman
DC Universe Presents
The Legion Of Superheroes

Marvel

Incrdible Hulk #7
Writen by Jason Aaron
Pencilled by Whilce Portacio & Leinil Francis Yu
Inked by Allen N. Martinez
Coloured by Val Staples & Sunny Gho
Lettered by Neurotic Cartoonist, IncWell, things get off to a bleak start with the drawn out death of Bruce at the heart of a Gamma explosion. The story get back to the more expected over the top feel with the return of Von Doom and Gor. Count Von Doom gets a lot of time discussing in a very fighty way, the circumstances of Banner’s death, and actually comes out of it quite well, which is unusual. I think with the wrapping up of this arc though my patience for the series is wearing thin. While there is a surprising amount of substance beneath the ridiculous there needs to be more of one and less of the other to keep me engaged.

Other

Dominique Laveau: VoodooChild
Pub: Vertigo
Written by Selwyn Hinds
Cover by Rafael Grampá
Pencilled by Denys Cowan
Inked by John Floyd
Cover Color by Dave Stewart
Lettered by Clem Robins
Colored by Dave McCaig & Rafael GrampáThings get set much more firmly on the rails this month as explanations come fairly thick and fast as we get a Laveau family history. It’s “Who Do You Think You Are?” with Loa and ghost. There’s touches of Neil Gaiman about the premise and some of the story elements, wich is high praise indeed. Hopefully the run will continue well.

Skipped To The End…

It’s Batman that really jumps out at me this month as the one to read. The next stage of the Court Of Owls story gets off to a strong start and there’s serious promise for the next issue. Quiet how things hold up in the other “Bat” titles will be one to watch. It’ll be interesting, as always to see other artists and writers take on things.

Wonder Woman remains consistently impressive, while Red Hood is making a surprising niche for itself in my affections. Dominque Laveau is also very worthy of attention, and Justice League remains consistently good, strange body shapes aside. Nightwing provides a nice plot twist and action, but

Otherwise nothing is really setting the world on fire, and is more a question of attachment to characters than anything else. I think there might me a few more titles dropped from this month ere long.

I meet a childhood hero thanks to Pat Kelleher

Well, I am home, tired, relaxed and happy having almost completed my duties for altfiction 2012.

As the dust settles I want to share a few thank you’s, or as I like to call it ‘My Gwyneth Paltrow Oscar moment’

First of all a big thank you to all the participants, I am always delighted by how the alt fic community is willing to give their time and energy to events like this, to share their knowledge and experience with other writers and fans. Particularly impressive are those who along with Paul Cornell attended a mere week after Eastercon, heroic effort folks and we appreciated it. Thanks to Keith Large for letting us have fun with his play the Carrot Nappers. Everyone was spectacular and our guests of honour Ken MacLeod and James Swallow brought Saturday night in, in spectacular fashion.

@mygoditsraining, @fiskerton, Catherine Rogers, Jim Worrad

Second the Volunteers and my team of Minions and Catherine from WEM who all provided ad hoc support particularly Alasdair Stuart who played host, compere and sound engineer as well as panelist over the weekend. I received awesome amounts of support from my crack squad this weekend which helped things run very smoothly.

Huge thanks to Constable Robinson, PanMacmillan, Gollancz and SFX magazine for all their support and the big boxes of stuff that came for the goody bags and to Forbidden Planet London for the bags. Thanks to everyone who provided fliers, bookmarks and the like for the bags.

A special mention too for @mygoditsraining and @franterminiello for bringing baked goods to add to te festival of cake that we like to run on the sidelines.

Coz that's how we roll!

Thanks to the Phoenix and staff for hosting the event and having us back next year and for being cheerful and charming throughout and not running out of booze.

Over the last few months Del Lakin-Smith has done a fantastic job with the website so thank you to ‘Beyond the Blurb’ for their ongoing support.

A thank you to to the ride leaders and Peter for organising the Adrian Mole bike tour and to Leicester Cycle City for sponsoring it.

Most of all thank you to everyone who paid to attend our event, I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did and that we will see you again in May 2013, back at Phoenix Square.

It couldn’t have happened without all of you and no doubt a lot of other people I haven’t picked out here.

DC – New 52 #8 Part 2

Batgirl
Batwoman
Deathstroke
Demon Knights
Green Lantern
Legion Lost
Resurrection Man
Suicide Squad
Superboy

Not Reviewed
Batman & Robin
Grifter
Mister Terrific
Frankenstein Agent Of S.H.A.D.E.

DC

The Shade

Marvel

Winter Soldier

Other

Saga
Saucer Country
Secret
Thief Of Thieves
Valen The Outcast

Skipped To The End…

DC – New 52 #8 Part 1

Batgirl #8
Written by Gail Simone
Pencilled by Alitha Martinez & Ardian Syaf
Inked by Vicente Cifuentes
Cover Color by Ulises Arreola Palomera
Lettered by David L. SharpeThis month sees Barbra lets one of Grotesque underlings free. I’m not saying why. Huge spoilers sweetie.

The issue revolves around the Gordon family as a whole though, not just Barbra. Finally facing up to her mother’s return to Gotham, Barbra asks some difficult questions about why she left.

Both of these plot threads come back around within the issue, which is a happy rarity. As ever, both the plot and the character writing remain strong.

Batwoman #8
Written by J.H. Williams, III & W. Haden Blackman
Pencilled by Amy Reeder Hadley
Inked by Rob Hunter
Cover Color by Amy Reeder Hadley
Lettered by Todd KleinI’ve still not warmed to the change of art style, but I really should stop going on about it.

Batwoman faces off against the bizarre menagerie of supernatural villainy allied with “Mother”, while we get flash backs that centre on various characters becoming central to this story line and to Katie Kane.

The deviation from the usual story telling style that the series has kept is disappointing, and in conjunction with the excess of characters and plot threads flooding the issue it does not make for the flowing and elegant read that characterised the first issues of this run.

Deathstroke #8
Written by Kyle Higgins
Pencilled by Joe Bennett & Eduardo Pansica
Inked by Art Thibert
Lettered by Travis Lanham
Colored by Jason Wright & Jason FabokThe opening story arc closes this month with what feels more like an epilogue than anything else. Deathstroke is recovering from the wounds he has sustains, but is still driven to take a job, to prove a point to himself as much as the world.

There’s hinting of an origin story, and the reprise of the family ties sub plot.

So far this series has impressed me in ways I really wasn’t expecting. The first issues were mainly fighting, but things have developed, with the contract of Deathstroke, the return of his son, his sense of the world and the problems his age is beginning to cause.

With this arc having run its course it’s going need a strong follow up to prove Deathstroke as something more than a one trick pony, but on current form it seems more than achievable.

Demon Knights #8
Written by Paul Cornell
Pencilled by Bernard Chang & Diogenes Neves
Inked by Oclair Albert & Bernard Chang
Cover Color by Mike Choi
Lettered by Jared K FletcherAfter the action orientated events of the siege story line this month changes pace a bit with the group travelling to the city state of Alba Sarum while Madame Xanadu recounts the story of Jason Blood and Etrigan. This provides more character to the teller and subject as well as a bit of world building. It also provides a fantastic stage for subversion and twisting. My advice is pay attention.

Green Lantern #8
Written by Geoff Johns
Pencilled by Doug Mahnke
Inked by Christian Alamy
Cover Color by Alex Sinclair
Lettered by DC LetteringHal and Sinestro both attempt to escape their imprisonment by the Indigo lantern tribe, but it is Hal that, for once, is the most successful of the pair. The mystery that surrounds the Indigo’s only gets murkier this month as Hal becomes aware of the sheer scale of the operation they are running, and quite what they are up to. It all goes a bit Tron a Hal takes to a motorcycle construct to navigate the cyclopean building.

The issue sees a possibly change to the established dynamic between Hal and Sinestro, and it’s a shame to see that. I have a fairly shrewd idea what may happen next month in terms of rescue for the Lanterns, but we shall see.

Legion Lost #8
Written by Tom DeFalco
Cover Color by Brad Anderson
Lettered by Travis Lanham
Colored by Pete Woods & Brad AndersonCrossovers begin in earnest this month, as N.O.W.H.E.R.E. strike at the Legion, hoping to capture the young heroes for their own malicious ends. That the organisation is casting such a large shadow over the 52 with very little currently known about it is impressive. That all looks set to change.

It’s all action this month, with very little time made for the group dynamics that have been shown throughout the current run. The team is brutally subdued by a familiar face from Superboy and her fellows.

Resurrection Man #8
Written by Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning
Pencilled by Fernando Dagnino Guerra
Inked by Fernando Dagnino Guerra
Cover Color by Rafael Albuquerque
Lettered by Rob LeighMitch Shelly continues his search for clues to the life he can’t remember. He’s being hunted in turn however. A necromancer and a psychometric (in the paranormal sense, not someone working in the field of psychological measurement) and both on Mitch’s trail. Coincidence leads to a run in at the library and once again to Mitch’s death.

This issue also see the Suicide Squad arrive on the scene, and I’m interested to see how Abnett and Lanning handle them next month.

Suicide Squad #8
Written by Adam Glass
Pencilled by Federico Dallocchio
Inked by Federico Dallocchio
Cover Color by Rod Reis
Lettered by Jared K FletcherHarley fucking Quinn is still alive. I’m unimpressed. On the plus side there is some good build up for next month as we flashback to an unknown squad member being trained and conditioned to kill Amanda Waller by the Basilisk group. Otherwise meh.

Superboy #8
Written by Scott Lobdell & Tom DeFalco
Pencilled by RB Silva & Ivbn Coello Soria
Inked by Robeiro Leandro da Silva &Ivbn Coello Soria
Cover Color by Barbara Ciardo
Lettered by DC LetteringThe start of this issue feels a bit sudden, with Superboy facing Grunge, a fellow inmate of N.O.W.H.E.R.E.’s mysterious program. With abilities that counteract Superboy’s own, and knowledge of N.O.W.H.E.R.E.’s plans, this fight is a learning experience for Superboy and the reader.

Despite the action this issue feels a little flat compared to previous months.

Not Reviewed

Batman & Robin
Grifter
Mister Terrific
Frankenstein Agent Of S.H.A.D.E.

DC

The Shade #7
Written by James Robinson
Pencilled by Javier Pulido
Inked by Javier Pulido
Cover Color by Tony Harris
Lettered by Todd KleinThe fight between Shade and the Inquisitor that has been building for the past few issues comes to a conclusion this month. Sadly it is not the grand finale that might have been expected. There’s a feeling that there’s a lot still to fit in and that what might have taken another issue to resolve was pushed into this month instead.

Marvel

Winter Soldier #4
Writen by Ed Brubaker
Pencilled by Butch Guice
Pencilled (cover)by Lee Bermejo
Inked by Stefano Gaudiano
Coloured by Elizabeth Breitweiser & Lee Bermejo
Lettered by Neurotic Cartoonist, IncTeaming up with Doctor Doom is always going to be a dangerous bargain. Bucky and Natasha go their separate ways as they try to stop the Lucia’s plans. Doom and Bucky head for the UN, where a face off against past mistakes awaits them, in the form of a rouge Doom bot and one of the assassin’s trained by Winter Soldier. Elsewhere Natasha finds that they remain a step behind Lucia, who still has some impressive moves left to make.

Other

Saga #2
Pub: Image
Written by Brian K. Vaughan
Art By Fiona StaplesAlana and Marko remain utterly brilliant this month, in their own fashion, escaping vines by the sharing of secrets (ick) and being prepared to do anything to save themselves when one of the bounty hunters following them makes a move.

The series is impressive on every level. Characters, dialogue, world and story work brilliantly together, without any element overshadowing the rest.

Saucer Country #2
Written by Paul Cornell
Art by Ryan KellyThe story feels slightly more tethered this month as the foreboding of the first issue gives way to far more definitive action on the part of all the characters. There are still tiny imaginary Pioneer people predicting the future though. Things are set in motion by Arcadia that are going to be interesting to see played out. There’s a lot going on, and it’s impressive to see it all juggled so well.

Secret #1
Pub:Image
Written by Jonathan Hickman
Art By Ryan BodenheimThe series gets off to a fantastic start with a torture scene that relies on implication and menace rather than upon gore. This sets things up nicely for what is a very dialogue heavy series of conversations and negotiations.

It’s hard to say quite what the book is and will be, but the focus at the moment is a private security firm, that are plying their trade with all their trade craft and fear mongering.

This is certainly one to pick up and watch for in coming months.

Thief Of Thieves #3
Pub: Image Comics
Written by Robert Kirkman & Nick Spencer
Art by Shawn Martinbrough
Colors by Felix Serrano
Letters by Rus Wooton
Cover by Shawn MartinbroughAnother very good issue that does a lot with what feels like very little. If this was a TV show (rumour says it’s already been picked up for that very progression) it’d be four scenes. A dream sequence fading into waking and breakfast with an unexpected guest (see the cover, that’s our girl). Followed by a meeting against a background of family dynamics (and a dig at Orlando Bloom) and finally a brief scene in a prison. There’s as much said in the art as there is in the speech bubbles, and the series is feeling very strong for three issues in.

Valen The Outcast #4
Pub: BOOM! Studios
Writen by Michael Alan Nelson
Art by Matteo Scalera
Color by Archie Van Buren
Lettering by Ed DukeshireAn initially slow start this issue does eventually erupt into the action that is characterising the series. There’s more world building than previously, as the criminal underground of the latest town the trio find themselves in is fleshed out. There’s a bit of horror from an unexpected angle added into the mix and the group finally starts to function like one, in lock step with fantasy tradition.

Skipped To The End…

There are some very strong contenders this week, but I think it’s Demon Knights that comes out on top, just for the layers present in the story. After that it’s a toss up between Secret and Saga, which is probably going to come down to preference. I’m leaning towards Saga, but that’s just me. Thief of Thieves does a lot, but doesn’t feel up to the pace of the first two issues. Saucer Country moves on from the premise presented in issue one well, and is full of promise.

The New 52 feels weak on the whole. Batgirl probably comes just after Demon Knights out of the nine books reviewed. Superboy doesn’t feel as strong as it has been recently, and Green Lantern is the only other issue that really impresses. Batwoman is probably the most significant disappointment as the art and story becomes muddy.

Marvel starts Avengers vs X-Men proper this week, but I’m still not getting drawn in. Hopefully I can avoid it all being spoiled too much.

I’ve cut back hugely on the New 52 comics, possibly too harshly, but that’s how it is going to be. I’m not looking forward to making decisions about next week’s releases though, but I’ll burn that bridge when I get to it.

DC – New 52 #8 Part 1

Animal Man
Justice League International
Stormwatch
Swamp Thing

Not Reviewed

Action Comics
Batwing
Detective Comics
Green Arrow
Hawk & Dove
Men Of War
OMAC
Red Lantern
Static Shock

Other

Supurbia

Skipped To The End…

DC – New 52 #8 Part 1

Animal Man #8
Written by Jeff Lemire
Pencilled by Steve Pugh & Travel Foreman
Inked by Jeff Huet & Steve Pugh
Cover Color by Loverne Kindzierski
Lettered by Jared K FletcherIt’s not often I swear on here so understand the level of weirded out I am when I say fuck me sideways with a fish knife but the body horror returns in the most horrific of manners this month. Also bear in mind I don’t shock easy. I for one am glad the art is no more detailed than it is. You’ve been warned folks.

Surrounded by creatures of the Rot it’s time for Barry to make some hard decisions. The strong feeling of family comes to the fore once again as Buddy does what he can to protect his family, weight Ellen’s fear against Maxine’s increasing powers.

Animal Man is really looking like the best horror title out there at the moment. It is also far more than that. The heart of the book really emphasise the strain of the crazy world of superheroes has on a person and their family, especially the current nastiness. It something not seen often enough and serves to ground a book, and give depth that would perhaps otherwise be lacking.

Justice League International #8
Written by Dan Jurgens
Pencilled by Aaron Lopresti
Inked by Matthew Ryan
Cover Color by Jeromy N. Cox
Lettered by Travis LanhamI’m on the fence about JLI. But at least I’m not going from pillar to post about them like Batman is if Justice League is to be believed.

The drastic reduction in the roster following last month’s bombing means the characters still on their feet get a bit more time to grow this issue.

Booster Gold is aided by Batwing as he faces off against Lightweaver. But it is only part of the problems the JLI face. A far more switched on villain than most Lightweaver is prepared to retreat and meet up with foes that could be considerably worse for the team to face.

The U.N. is determined to wash its hands of the JLI and puts its political weight behind doing so by any means nessesary.

There is another cameo this month, aside from Batwing, that I’m really disappointed in.

The writing is good but the tone of the series is still hard to decipher. After a bit of humour in the opening arc things seem to have turned considerably grimdark over the last few issues.

Stormwatch #8
Written by Paul Jenkins
Pencilled by Daniel Horn & Ignacio Calero
Inked by Sean Parsons & Daniel Horn
Cover Color by Alex Sinclair
Lettered by Rob Leigh“Boys can like boys, it doesn’t matter”. Damned right. Jenny Quantum won’t replace Jenny Sparks, but she does talk sense, and awesome.

Midnighter stepping around the subject seems possibly out of character though. Maybe he just shelters kids more than I’d imagine. Although that’s unlikely given the way things turn out. Anyway…

The dysfunctional team dynamics remains at the centre of the series this month, as the Engineer steps into her leadership role and tries to get answers about the Gravity Miners. This provides the reader with a nicely compacted info dump without it feeling out of place or overwhelming. This also sheds more lights on the Daemonites, who do seem to be involved across the Wildsotrm elements of the New 52.

For the record I remain in favour of diminutive names for any evil alien creature humans have to interact with when the sensible option would be killing them. Manipulation is always a good fall back though.

The writing gets in a few jokes, which is good because it almost makes a name like Gravity Miners seem believable. Swinging back around to the quote at the start f things there’s more relationship related dialogue than you’d expect. There’s also a nice weight of science babble, which founded in reality or not gives a sense of depth and solidity to the plot.

This issue really knocks it out the park. And for a two issue arc that’s damned good going. Saying that the issue would stand alone perfectly well, and works very well, cramming a huge amount in without any loss of quality.

Swamp Thing #8
Written by Scott Snyder
Pencilled by Yanick Paquette & Marco Rudy
Inked by Yanick Paquette & Marco Rudy
Cover Color by Nathan Fairbairn
Lettered by John HillWell it’s been worth the build up. Swamp Thing looks brilliant.

This issue has some really lovely panel and caption layouts throughout, starting as we see the havoc being wrought across the country as the Rot takes hold.

I sort of wish they’d not put him on the cover as it undercuts the deft reveal done in the issue. (I know there is a cover version out there with him blanked out, but it seems a shame for people to miss out on the actual art, seeing as it exists) An almost angelic looking and kingly Swamp Thing makes an impressive entrance, and is monstrous in battle. Old hallmarks of the original design remain, not least the distinctive facial features.

This is a very different Swamp Thing from the creature of old, as there is still Alec Holland at the centre rather than the ghost of his memories.

Despite being action heavy the character is the real star here, and the writing really brings that out. The plotting and pace so far has been brilliant, and this continues to be the case with the issue coming naturally to a fantastic end that leaves me longing for next month.

Not Reviewed

Action Comics
Batwing
Detective Comics
Green Arrow
Hawk & Dove
Men Of War
OMAC
Red Lantern
Static Shock

Other

Supurbia #2
Pub: BOOM! Studios
Written by Grace Randolh
Art by Russel Dauterman
Colour by Gabriel Cassata
Letters by Steve Wands
Cover by Peter V. NguyenThe series continues in great style, with the politicking and plots continuing between the housewives, house husbands, hangers on, and children of the Meta Legion.

Eve continues to make waves, big and small as the newest member of the community with her husband Robert coming home injured. The relationship between Night Fox and Agent Twilight continues to cause tension at various levels. Media coverage and sinister manipulations set wheels in motion as the team head off to a big encounter.

The cast continues to be well served, despite the short panel time some get. No one feels second string as everything gets interlaced. The machinations behind the scenes are subtle in execution, but far reaching in influence which fits nicely in the setting.

Skipped To The End…

I realise my perception of this is clouded my the very narrow perspective my thinned out choices has produced, but this has been a bloody good week. The only exception is JLI which feels weak in comparison.  I’m not going to rank the four other comics reviewed above. Go out and buy them all. They’re all very different, and all very good. If  have to give to give any sort of recommendation it’s to read Stormwatch first.

I’ve cut back this week’s reviewing so let’s get to it.

DC – New 52 #7 Part 4

Aquaman
Blackhawks
The Flash
Green Lantern: New Guardians
Justice League Dark
I, Vampire
Teen Titans

Not Reviewed

All Star Western
Batman: The Dark Knight
The Fury Of Firestorm: The Nuclear Man
The Savage Hawkman
Superman
Voodoo

DC
Legion: Secret Origin

2000AD
Prog 1775

Other
The New Deadwardians

Skipped To The End…

DC – New 52 #77 Part 4

Aquaman #7
Written by Geoff Johns
Pencilled by Ivan Reis
Inked by Joe Prado
Cover Color by Rod Reis
Lettered by DC LetteringA very dark start this week, as the ridiculous looking, but none the less threatening, Black Manta stalks Kahina the Seer through the jungle. Aquaman doesn’t appear until ten pages in, working with Mera to bring ships to land from the depth of a vicious storm, which is a heroic task that doesn’t fall into the punching people in the face which is good.. Abandoning this with a previously unseen harsh practicality Arthur returns to the home of Dr. Shin in search of answers about Atlantis. This meeting is interrupted by unexpected visitors however.

Another good issue that continues the sterling work on the series so far. Art and writing complement each other well, and the plot feels like it’s really moving along. There’s a feeling of actions having consequences beyond grand plot lines as both Arthur and Mera’s action over the last few issues get a slight nod apiece.

Blackhawks #7
Written by Michael Costa
Pencilled by CAFU & Carlos Alberto Rodriguez Vazquez
Inked by BIT
Cover Color by Ken Lashley
Lettered by Rob LeighIn the aftermath of the attack on their headquarters the Blackhawks are on the attack.

Tracking the attack back to a Finnish businessman (an unusual nationality for a super villain) the group launch an all out attack without waiting for official sanction.

The science fiction elements are once again delivered with though, including going into the nuances of electro shock projectiles and talking around force fields.

There’s also flashback and loss, so it’s not all good fun and shooting people.

I remain mostly impressed by Blackhawks. There are elements that don’t sit well with me, but they are overshadowed by the good.

The Flash #7
Written by Brian Buccellato & Francis Manapul
Pencilled by Francis Manapul
Inked by Francis Manapul
Cover Color by Brian Buccellato
Lettered by DC LetteringThere are echoes of the past this month as the events leading up to Flashpoint and the establishing of the New 52 universe are brushed worryingly close against. Flashpoint was tied to the Speed Force, which Barry is once again toying with. It’s all going a bit timey whimey.

Captain Cold has left Barry without a choice but to push himself beyond the limits of the Speed Force to rescue the girl he is falling in love with. This leads to results both expected and unpredictable.

The series is still full of some stunning artwork and the writing really flows. The plot feels solid going into a new arc, with foundations laid in the first issues still running through it.

Green Lantern: New Guardians #7
Written by Tony Bedard
Pencilled by Tyler Kirkham
Inked by Batt
Cover Color by Nei Ruffino
Lettered by David L. SharpeA very talkie issue that sees the Lanterns try to negotiate with Invictus rather than tackle him in combat. This leads to reveals about his past and the predations of Larfleeze.

Combat is resumed on the return of Bleez to the fold. This brings some interesting interactions from the group that are functioning more and more as a team.

For the moment the New Guardians seems to be standing apart from the two core Green Lantern titles and their overtones of a replacement Lantern core, but with much of the events of the first few issues yet to be explained I’m looking forward to things beginning to come back towards centre shortly.

Justice League Dark #7
Written by Peter Milligan
Pencilled by Daniel G Sampere
Lettered by Rob Leigh
Painted cover by Ryan Sook
Colored by Ulises Arreola PalomeraI’m taking liberties with alphabetical order for good reason, so bear with me.

JLD #7 marks the first real cross over in the New 52, integrating with I, Vampire, and in this instance is the issue of the pair to read first.

In the wake of Andrew Bennett’s slaying a far greater threat has been summoned. Cain. With abilities granting him power over other vampires and that sucks the power from the JLD’s magic things look bleak for the team.

The unlikeliest pairing of the lot are sent off on a rescue mission as the others try to hold off the vamparic horde. Poor Gotham city has it rough.

The writing remains strong, and displays the fractured teamwork of the group well. There’s a leaning in favour of Constantine, which I can’t really criticise.

The story neatly ties into I, Vampire, which is a nice change compared to the bad handling these things sometimes fall victim of.

I, Vampire #7
Written by Joshua Hale Fialkov
Pencilled by Andrea Sorrentino
Inked by Andrea Sorrentino
Lettered by DC Lettering
Colored by Marcelo Maiolo & Andrea SorrentinoSo to continue from the above pretty much then. The story changes its focus a little, as fitting the title and spotlights the new boy Cain, and Mary as one extends his powers and the other feels the tables abruptly turned.

The writing takes the inclusion of new characters in its stride and the artwork rises to the challenge of the larger set pieces admirably.

I look forward to seeing the pairing carry on, as it’s providing canvas for a larger story than could otherwise be told. Certainly things are looking good for next month.

Teen Titans #7
Written by Scott Lobdell
Pencilled by Brett Booth
Inked by Norm Rapmund
Cover Color by Andrew Dalhouse
Lettered by DC LetteringAnother brilliant issue that sees the Titans attempt to rescue Superboy from N.O.W.H.E.R.E. It also means me looking up one of DC’s odder character on Wikipedia, Danny the Street. Danny is a living, sentient, transvestite street. I’ll let that sink in. Sentient street. Yes really.

There a huge amount packed in once again, managed without overwhelming the reader. The team comes together around Red Robin with reluctance this issue, which is done without the tension of other titles, and works better with the characters.

The Team give as good as they get, and there are some interesting reveals throughout the issue, leading up to a very nice cliff hanger.

Not Reviewed

All Star Western
Batman: The Dark Knight
The Fury Of Firestorm: The Nuclear Man
The Savage Hawkman
Superman
Voodoo

DC

Legion : Secret Orgins #6
Written by Paul Levitz
Pencilled by Chris Batista
Inked by Marc Deering
Cover Color by Tom Feister
Colored by Chris Batista & Marc DeeringThe conclusion to the origin story of the Legion feels a little rushed. There are a few interesting plot twists, but things feel both limited by trying to cram too much in, and the need to join with the established continuity.

The characters feel very thin at the moment, with the exception of Brainiac and Phantom Girl they feel more like archetypes than fully realised creations.

Overall the series hasn’t won me over to the Legion Of Superheroes, and in and of itself it hasn’t really grabbed me.

2000AD

Prog 1775

Judge Dredd- Eve of Destruction Pt 11

The Judge’s problems escalate this week with the destruction of their Public Survaliance Unit, and the murder of Borisenko. The city begins to run riot, as gang warfare and looting boils up onto the streets. ON top of all this the virus unleashed on the city continus to spread. There are rays of hope but they are dim indeed.

The Zaucer of Zilk- The Zaucer of Zilk Pt 1

More of a prologue, dream sequence than anything else I’m unsure what to make of this. The art style, if not the colour palette, matches the cover and doesn’t immediately draw me in. We shall see what the next Prog brings…

Flesh- Midnight Cowboys Pt2

There’s a dark bit of religious fevour to start this week’s episode, and the return of… well, that’d be saying wouldn’t it?

Age of the Wolf Pt4

An issue of scene setting this week starts the wheels spinning on the slave deal at Buckingham Palace and sees Rowan negotiating for passage through the territory of the K9 Crew, a disturbing bunch of Were worshipers.

Nikolai Dante- The Dante Gambit Pt 2

A nicely paced episode that sees Dante taking a breath after his victory and putting the dead to rest. There’s questions of the future posed, but the final cementing of Nikolai’s victory is still needed.

Other

The New Deadwardians #1
Pub: Vertigo
Written by Dan Abnett
Art by Ian Culbard
Coloured by Patricia Mulvihill
Cover by Ian CulbardVampires and zombies meet Downton Abey then. Somewhere near the intersection between Anno Dracula and Pride Prejudice and Zombies stands The New Deadwardians.

Despite the currently fecund landscape of the two horror beastie genres and their increasing cross-pollination Deadwardians feels refreshingly different.

The setting and premise is introduced very nicely without feeling forced or jarring against the time period. While the zombies are introduced with violence and gore the existence of vampires is much more delicately broached, working by implication.

The story balances intro with the opening of its story arc well.

Chief Inspector Suttle is the last Homicide Detective in the Met, murder not being as frequent as it once was. There are still incidents though, like the body washed up on the shores of the Thames, dead of no obvious natural cause…

Skipped To The End…

It’s hard to pick my top recommendation this week. By a cold undead nose it’s The New Deadwardians that wins out. Hopefully future issues will build on what is a very promising first issue. Close behind is Aquaman, delivering yet another brilliant issue. Teen Titans is also looking very good and the Justice League Dark and I, Vampire cross over has started brilliantly. The Flash, Blackhawks and New Guardians continue their trajectories, so take that as a recommendation if you’re already following/interested in them. 2000AD’s strongest story this week is Judge Dredd,which puts the rest of the issue in the shade. Whatever your preference, go out and buy something.

DC – New 52 #7 Part 3

Batman
Birds Of Prey
Blue Beetle
Green Lantern Corps
Justice League
The Legion Of Superheroes
Nightwing
Red Hood & The Outlaws
Supergirl
Wonder Woman

Not Reviewed
Captain Atom
Catwoman
DC Universe Presents

2000AD

Prog 1774

Other

No Place Like Home #2
Dominique Laveau: Voodoo Child

Skipped To The End…

DC – New 52 #7 Part 3

Batman #7
Written by Scott Snyder
Pencilled by Greg Capullo
Inked by Jonathan Glapion
Cover Color by FCO Plascencia
Lettered by ComicraftAn utterly fantastic issue, that manages the hard task, of being a bridge issue between two arcs, very well indeed. Batman has managed to escape from the clutches of the Court of Owls and has returned to the Batcave. Still off kilter he nonetheless continues to push himself, and delves into the task to studying the body of one of the Talons. Much of the revelations this issue revolve around Bruce’s discoveries and there implications to Nightwing.

There’s a feeling of impending horror for the whole of the Bat-Family, deepened by the way in which the Court has so far bested Batman. There’s an interesting bit of allegory worked into the art as well. I don’t think anyone is getting out of this unscathed.

Hopefully the overall story will remain cohesive as story line envelopes the other titles in the line. But there’s a danger of standalone plots being trampled for the sake of the larger picture.

Birds Of Prey #7
Written by Duane Swierczynski
Pencilled by Jesús Saíz
Inked by Jesús Saíz
Cover Color by Santiago Arcas
Lettered by DC LetteringThe battle against Choke and his minions almost comes to an end this month. The team battles his minions and finally come face to face with their enemy, alone for his powers to almost best them.

For a team book there is a feeling of this being far more Black Canary’s book than anyone else’s, and it makes the other members harder to relate to.

Blue Beetle #7
Written by Tony Bedard
Cover Color by Paul A Renaud
Lettered by Rob Leigh
Colored by Peter PantazisBlue Beetle tackles the issue of public perception of the superhero community head on this issue. After his actions last month Blue Beetle is being paraded by the website Superfail.com as an example of all that is dangerous in the existence of metahumans.

Jamie has gone to New York, hoping to find someone within the Hero community to talk to about what is happening to him.

There’re various sub plots being set in motion this month, including Jamie’s status as a run away, and the introduction of a villain with unfortunate eating habits.

The main plot itself this week is only build up, with Jamie’s chasing of “Short-Timer” only leading to further misunderstanding of his intentions and a final page twist.

There are some very strong foundations being laid this month for stories to come. Moving Jamie out to New York does wrench the reader out of the world that’s been built up around him over the last six issues which is a shame though.

Green Lantern Corps #7
Written by Peter J. Tomasi
Pencilled by Claude St. Aubin
Inked by Scott Hanna
Cover Color by Rod Reis
Lettered by David L. SharpeA very stately issue this month, showing the consequences of John’s actions, earlier in the series. Wracked with the guilt of having killed a fellow Lantern, despite knowledge that it stopped the invasion of Oa, John is trying hard to atone for this act. Returning the body of Kirrt to his home world and family John confronts the type of grief not usually seen in comic books.

An impressive issue, simply because of the subject matter. While it would have been possibly to sweep this under the carpet it’s good to see John’s actions confronted.

Justice League #7
Written by Geoff Johns
Pencilled by Gary Frank & Gene Ha
Inked by Gary Frank & Gene Ha
Cover Color by Alex Sinclair
Lettered by DC Lettering“How mad was Batman?” “Why do you love poking the bear so much?” “Because he’s so cuddly.”

Another flashy issue that delivers visually and with dialogue but only hits its substance when it moves away from the League, and focuses on their liaison officer, Colonel Steve Trevor.

There a nice demonstration of how different groups view the League, with their public image contrasted against the view of world leaders. This gets further shaded by the view of the league “at home” for the first time, in the Watchtower satellite. Batman gets some interesting lines about the JLI, but it’s Steve and Wonder Woman who are the key part.

There’s the feeling of this being a filler issue, but a very well done one that’s adding much to the story line.

The backup Shazam story is an unfortunate bit of info dumping that could have been handled much better and feels like a teaser trailer rather than any sort of story in its own right. There’s a little bit of story built, but not enough.

Nightwing #7
Written by Kyle Higgins
Pencilled by Geraldo Borges & Eddy Barrows
Inked by Paulo Siqueira & Eddy Barrows & Eber Ferreira
Cover Color by Rod Reis
Lettered by DC LetteringI mentioned earlier that Nightwing was the subject of certain revelations in this month’s Batman, well we get things from his perspective here.

First up though, is the battle with Raymond that provides its own set of facts that alter the past and tie Nightwing’s storyline close to the Court Of Owls.

It’s worth pointing out that if you’d been follow Nightwing without following Batman you’d possibly be quiet lost by the significance of some of this issue, which is unfortunate.

Red Hood & The Outlaws #7
Written by Scott Lobdell
Pencilled by Kenneth Rocafort
Cover Color by Blond
Lettered by DC Lettering
Colored by Blond & Kenneth RocafortAnother good issue that sees the team acquire a very nice vehicle and provides some answers to the questions raised in the first arc. The team face off against the assassin Essence, a figure from Jason’s past who reveals a lot of the origin of the Untitled.

It looks as though Jason’s offhanded actions may come back to haunt him next month…

Supergirl #7
Written by Michael Green & Mike Johnson
Pencilled by Mahmud Anjum Asrar
Inked by Mahmud Anjum Asrar
Cover Color by Dave McCaig
Lettered by John HillSupergirl really comes into her own this month, facing off against the World Breakers. Holding her own against the four newly revealed foes she is taunted from the sidelines be Reign. Still discovering the extent of her powers Supergirl proves an erratic opponent. She’s also revealed to fight very differently from Superman etc, being prepared to try and kill her adversaries.

Supergirl accepts the loss of Krypton and her new place on Earth during this issue, which bodes a change of direction moving into the next arc as this will hopefully change her reactions to much of what she encounters.

Wonder Woman #7
Written by Brian Azzarello
Pencilled by Cliff Chiang
Inked by Cliff Chiang
Cover Color by Cliff Chiang
Lettered by Jared K FletcherAnother top notch issue that sees more of the Greek pantheon introduced.

Wonder Woman and the others visit Eros and Hephaestus, The Smith, in order to prepare for their journey into hell to rescue Zola. There are more revelations for Wonder Woman and some refreshingly misdirected righteousness. It’s a nice change that a hero gets something wrong for once. The consequences are going to be interesting to see.

Not Reviewed

Captain Atom
Catwoman
DC Universe Presents

DC

2000AD

Prog 1774Judge Dredd- Eve of Destruction Pt10

Things shift up at least two or three gears this issue as the Judges come under direct attack. Not only has Judge Roake been killed, but the Statue Of Justice, housing the Judge’s surveillance network has also been attacked.

Age of the Wolf- She is Legend Pt3

It’s all action this issue as the werewolves attack Rowan. The back story to the Skinners is fleshed out and things take a definite and grisly turn for the worst.

Flesh- Midnight Cowboys Pt1

200 odd years into the future and most livestock is extinct. In an attempt to corner the market for real meat, the Trans-Time corporation has gone back in time to the age of the dinosaurs to harvest them instead.

A mad cap premise that makes for brilliant reading as a herd of dinosaurs is moved from the destroyed Base 3 to Base 6, in what will one day be Texas. It’s not just the dangers of their stock the herders have to beware of though, but mysterious riders pursuing them as well.

Grey Area- Xenophobia

A brilliant bit of story that keeps one step ahead of expectation as Bulliet is somewhere he really shouldn’t be.

Sadly it’ll be three months or so before Grey Area returns to 2000AD, so be prepared to wait for a resolution.

Nikolai Dante- The Dante Gambit Pt1

After last week’s climatic episode, things are no less tense as lose ends are tidied up. Elena Kurkin and Elizabeth Hawksmoore settle their long standing feud, while there’s the loss of another long standing character.

Other

No Place Like Home #2
Pub: Image
Written by Angela Tirotto
Art by Richard Jordan
Coloured by Paul LittleThe story doesn’t pick up right from the end of the last issue, which is unfortunate given the situation and tension in the last few pages. Instead we enter while _ is being arrested and get a better idea of the interplay between him and the Sherif _. Dot doesn’t get sidelined this month, but doesn’t feel like the central character. There are a number of disturbing reveals and things really get going with a carjacking and a bit of gun point grave digging.

Dominique Laveau: Voodoo Child #1
Pub: Vertigo
Written by Selwyn Hinds
Pencils by Denys Cowan
Colours by Dave McCaig
Cover by Rafael AlexanderIn the flooded streets of New Orleans it’s not just the water you need to beware of.

Dominique Laveau is pursued through the streets by unknown tormenters. Reaching sanctuary she is forced to flee again my much more mundane issues. In her flight through a graveyard she comes across the mausoleum of Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen. Things take a supernatural turn and Dominque finds herself confronted by a murder scene and fingered as the number one suspect.

The mysticism is kept under control this issue, but I expect things will ramp up in the following issues as we move away from the horror feel of this first issue and into a more proactive style of story.

Skipped To The End…

A good week all in all. To the extent I’m having trouble putting one issue above the other. Wonder Woman stands out most of all, but with it’s style, writing and aesthetic it always will. Green Lantern Corps is worth another mention for its subject matter, if not the subtly of its handling. Beyond that it’s hard to say really, and comes down to personal opinion. More than a few issues seem to be tying of arcs or setting up the next one, and it makes it hard to chose.

Angel Dare is an ex porn star and now runs her own, reasonably successfully agency. When a Romanian girl comes in asking to contact one of Angel’s models and swiftly followed by a couple of pushy thugs Angel has no idea the strong of events that have just been triggered or how it’s going to change her life.

This was a thoroughly enjoyable read. It’s not a genre i’ve delved into much but I had fun. There were one or two small leaps of faith I had to make in Angel’s decision making as part of the set up for the action but it was easy to do and nothing that pushed me out of the story.

I liked Angel, she’s fun and in her own way very tough, she gets tougher too. There is heaps of action, some horrifying scenes that ensure the reader is absolutely morally behind Angel all the way and a slice of irreverent humour that is all Faust. I think all in all this is exactly what I wanted it to be.