Five Must Buys 11/21/16

What up brochachos. Happy Thanksgiving week.  Even though it is a holiday week there is a ton of great stuff out this week.  DC is still crushing it with Rebirth, which let's be real is still a shocker.  It is hard to keep up this much quality with this many books.  I have dropped maybe a handful. This week there are a ton of books and it was incredibly hard to narrow it down just to 5. This is one of those weeks were you end up blowing twice as much as you wanted to. So let's get to it.

W: Dan Jurgens A: Bernard Chang

Batman Beyond #2 - 'THE RETURN' part two! Terry is tested in a way he hasn't been since he returned as Batman. In Jokerztown to rescue Dana, he's not up against one foe but an entire community of clown-worshipping crazies, all led by the deadly Terminal. Is it possible his crime-fighting career - and his life - will both end just as he's starting over?

Although this may not be the premier Bat title coming out this week, most people agree that Detective Comics is the best Bat book out right now, although I think it is All-Star Batman, this is still a great read that is a must read for any Batman Beyond fan.  Terry is back and it looks like the Joker might be back as well. This story has a ton of potential  that should interest any Bat fan.

W: Joshua Williamson A: Jason Shawn Alexander 

Frostbite #3 - The high-action futuristic Western from the writer of THE FLASH and the creator of Empty Zone kicks into high gear! Keaton has managed to get Vic out of Los Angeles, but the trouble is only just starting. The mysterious Boss Burns knows the precious cargo that Vic is carrying, and he wants it for himself. He's put a price on the women's heads, and now all of the nastiest gangs of the frozen American wasteland are barreling down on them, guns drawn and ready to claim the prize.

I know, I know, another post apocalyptic tale about a society that is messed up fighting for survival. It has been done to death, but it doesn't make this story any less interesting or good.  This is a great series that mashes up elements from The Book Of Eli, The Maze Runner and The Walking Dead. It is one that should at least get a chance.

 W: Dan Abnett A: Brett Booth

Titans #5 - 'The Return of Wally West' part five! Wally West will do anything to save his friends, even at the cost of his own life! The full extent of Abra Kadabra's greatest trick is finally revealed!

This series has been one of my favorite out of the Rebirth. It reintroduces the Wally West that have been most people's flashes growing up and gives him a mystery to solve and a team to work with. Don't get me wrong we all love Barry Allen and the Flash book is a must read for any Flash fans, but this book seems to have the most potential to explain the Rebirth elements and The Watchmen elements.   

W: Robert Kirkman A: Paul Azaceta

Outcast #23 - 'THE DARKEST BEFORE' What was once trapped in shadow is out in the open, and it is about to overwhelm Kyle Barnes.

I power watched the show again this weekend.  The comic makes the show so much better.  You know details that they don't explain and overall just a great show. With the long weekend coming up I am going to read this series again completely. It is so dark and twisted that I can't get enough. If you are into the Horror genre this is the premiere book that you should be reading.

 W: Jason Aaron A: Jorge Molina

Star Wars #25 - Rebel crew vs. SCAR Troopers for the fate of the Harbinger! PLUS: An all-new Artoo-Deetoo adventure!

What can I say about this. It is Star Wars, although I thought that Darth Vadar was the better series, the Star Wars book is no slouch. Although that might be that nothing is cooler than Darth Vadar going around the universe kicking @$$.  Jason Aaron captures the voice of the original trilogy so well that it seems like it was all written by the same person. This book is light and fun and should be read by any and EVERY Star Wars fan out there.

Honorable Mentions - Jim Thompsons Killer Inside Me #3, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #64, Black Monday Murders #4, Chew #60, Amazing Spider-Man Annual #1, Death Of X #4, Deathstroke #7, Detective Comics #945, Flash #11, Teen Titans #2, Dept H #8.

Think I missed anything or am overrating something? Let me know in the comments.

Five Must Buys 11/14/16

What up brochachos. This week there are too many good books coming out.  I had to cut Moonshine, which I loved and Batman, which features one of my all time favorite villains in Bane. I also had to cut the Green Lanterns book which I have enjoyed, especially this new story line of a ring that can be worn by anyone. DC has been killing it with Rebirth, but they didn't make it into the top five this week. Over at Marvel none of the Spider-Man stuff made it either. It is a brutal week on wallets, but this is the week of independents. So here we go.

 BOOK OF THE WEEK

W: Ed Brubaker W: Sean Phillips

Kill or Be Killed #4 - The shocking end to the first arc, as Dylan's secret collides with his home life. BRUBAKER & PHILLIPS's new series keeps the hits coming, and remember, each issue includes fantastic back page extras and articles.

This book has been my favorite book that I have read all year.  This story is so dark and twisted yet fascinating in a way that you can't stop reading and you can't wait to see what happens. Initially I thought that the twist was going to be that the guy is just crazy and there is no supernatural element to it, but I no longer think that. This is a must read for anyone.

W: Brian Wood A: Mack Chater

Briggs Land #4 - Caleb Briggs, Grace's eldest son and a member of the white power movement, attempts to intimidate a local business owner into selling. When that fails, he calls in the troops. Meanwhile, Grace continues to work to isolate her husband from the family business and the big fracking concern interested in Briggs Land.

This book reminds me a little bit of Sheltered, which I really enjoyed.  An interesting dynamic is formed here between how Briggs Land was run and how Grace would like to run it now. She has shown herself to be a capable leader, but does have her own sense of justice and that is not as harsh as it was, which may lead to her downfall or at least lead to problems down the road. With her sons behind her she should be able to keep the Briggs Land train chugging along, but lets she what old man in charge has to say about that.

W: Joelle Jones A: Joelle Jones

Lady Killer 2 #3 - Life in Florida gets a little twisted for Josie when she learns about the dark past of her mother-in-law and the connection to her new partner.

This is another fantastic book, whereas this one is dark it is splashed with a slight humor as well. Set in the 60's where this housewife is secretly one of the best hired killers money can buy. This book shows perfectly the problems of trying to balance a home life with a secret life. If you like James Bond or Mad Men this is a book that you need to catch up on.

W: Mark Millar A: Greg Capullo

Reborn #2 - MILLAR and CAPULLO's epic sci-fi fantasy story continues. After her death, Bonnie is reborn in Adystria and has a sword thrust into her hand. As the evils within the Dark Lands get stronger, she is Adystria's only hope: their savior.

The first issue was amazing with a ton of world building and endless possibilities.  Capullo is great and I could have swore I saw Bruce Wayne's twin in the first issue. Millar with Capullo is a great combo that I never knew I wanted. 

W: Jeff Lemire A: Andrea Sorrentino

Old Man Logan #13 - THE FINAL CHAPTER OF 'THE LAST RONIN' Confronted by his past and the horrors that he has faced, can LOGAN ever hope to be truly free of the WASTELANDS? Will MAUREEN forgive him if she learns the truth of who Logan used to be? Will the Silent Order succeed in their goals? Find out in 'The Last Ronin' Part Five: The Wolverine.

This has been my favorite book at Marvel since it has been launched.  I love the dark violent nature of this Wolverine and how it expands on the past of the original Old Man Logan story or I guess it could be considered the future, but you know what I mean.

Hit me up in the comments if you disagree or I missed one of your favorite books.

5 Must Buys 11/9/16

What up fellas.  Happy Monday.  Hopefully you guys got an extra hour of sleep with the time change. Unfortunately, it will now be dark on the way home from work now.  Looks like a lot of good books are coming out this week. Marvel is in the midst of their newest re-launch and DC continues with Rebirth.  Detective Comics and Flash are both strongly recommended, but didn't make the list this week. 

All-Star Batman #4 - 'My Own Worst Enemy' part four! So close and yet so far from his goal, Batman must now wrangle Two-Face out of his own assassin-filled riverboat casino before it plunges over Niagara Falls to their deaths! The Dark Knight will have to go all-in on the most deadly gamble of his life if he intends to make it out alive.

This has been my favorite Bat book stemming from the Rebirth, even though this isn't a Rebirth title. It almost feels like Quentin Tarantino decided to write a Batman comic book. It is action packed, very Dark and the KGBeast part was extremely graphic, but freaking amazing. This is definatly a book that beats to it's own drum.

Deathstroke #6 - The Professional' part six! Deathstroke's honor is put to the test when he must help a tyrannical despot - Ja Zaki, a.k.a. The Red Lion - stop a civil war that he inadvertently caused. Plus: Enter Jericho!

This book was a surprise for me. I like Deathstroke, but his books, a lot like Punisher end up being no story and just fighting/killing scenes. However, this book has started out with a great story and I am very excited to see where this goes. It has probably been the best solo Deathstroke book that I have read.

Glitterbomb #3 - 'I GAVE HIM A PIECE OF MY MIND...' Fan favorite JIM ZUB (WAYWARD, Thunderbolts) and newcomer DJIBRIL MORISSETTE-PHAN tear into the heart of Hollywood in GLITTERBOMB, a dramatic horror story about fame and failure.

This book took me by surprise. I almost didn't buy it, but was sure glad I did.  This is a dark tale where I don't consider the protagonist a bad person even though she does bad things. It seems like for the most part, people are getting what they deserved.  Please don't get me wrong killing is always wrong, but this is just entertainment.

Clone Conspiracy #2 -  The surprises keep coming in the SPIDER-MAN EVENT OF THE YEAR!Doc Ock is back and it's time for him and the Amazing Spider-Man to throw down! What lurks in the Underground?!

This has been the best Spider-man story in quite a long time.  Hopefully this wont get too crazy and convoluted, but so far so good.  This also has a chance to bring back Ben Reiley or Kaine as the Scarlet Spider, which I am very excited for. The other reason a lot of people have been excited for this is that Del Otto is doing the covers of this series and man, people love him.

Cannibal #2 - The second chapter from "New York Times" bestselling writer BRIAN BUCCELLATO & JENNIFER YOUNG. As the Hansen family reels from tragedy, Cash resorts to drastic measures in search of answers.

This is another book that is new, but has a lot of potential. This is a fresh take on zombies, but not really zombies.  I don't want to ruin it for anyone, but if you are a horror fan, this is a must check out.

Think I missed something or am flat out wrong. Let me know.

Five Must Buys 10/30/16

Hola readers. Another happy Monday and another day fighting awful traffic. It looks to be another great week in comics.  DC is still killing it with Rebirth and I am hoping that Marvel can turn it around with relaunching X-Men soon.  Marvel NOW has not been impressive and if my local store is any indication of how fans feel, Marvel needs to right the ship ASAP. It is funny how DC's comics are killing it and their movies are getting killed and Marvel's movies are killing it and their comics are getting killed.  TV aside from the Netflix shows are not great. Agents of Shield and the whole CWverse want to be good and sometimes they are, but most of the time they are meh. Let us get back to what all these things are based off and what we are excited to read this week.

BOOK OF THE WEEK

W: Zachary Kaplan A: Giovanni Timpano

Eclipse #3 - Not only does Bax get closer to understanding just how the city's mysterious killer avoids burning in the deadly sunlight, but also with Cielo's help, he learns more about the city's secrets and the killer's origins. But will it be enough to help Bax protect her before the killer strikes again?

This has been one of my favorite books that have come out recently.  In a post-apocalyptical world where the sun will burn and kill you, there is a killer that does not burn and is using the sun as his weapon.  This is a book that does not telegraph any of the twists and turns and is a great read.  I can't wait to learn more about the characters and this world.

W: Tom King A: Miel Janin

Batman #10 - 'I am Suicide' part two! Batman now has his team, but are they ready for the most dangerous mission of their lives? As the Dark Knight prepares his squad to infiltrate Santa Prisca, he may find that it's up to him alone to face Bane.

Anything with Bane will have me reading a book. I think that Bane has been so misused since pretty much Knightfall.  King looks like he may be using Bane's brain as well as his strength, which is what makes Bane so great and brings out the best in the Dark Knight. The start of this arc was great and looks to have a lot of potential. With what King did on Vision this may be the start of a great Batman arc.

W: Dan Abnett A: Brad Walker

Aquaman #10 - 'HOUSE OF LIGHT'! Before Mera can marry Aquaman and become the Queen of Atlantis, she must undergo numerous trials to appease the ancient traditions of her adopted homeland. But not everyone in the court of Atlantis is keen to see an outsider ascend to the throne!

This has been the only Aquaman run that has kept my interest this long. It will be interesting if Abnett can keep it going or will fall back into Aquaman that people make fun of. There are a lot of avenues to take with Aquaman since he is basically the only Monarch is the DC world and can pretty much do anything he wants. This aspect never seems to be pursued aside from an evil brother or king of guard trying to overthrow him and take power for themselves. He is also always the outcast in the Justice League and there are a lot of avenues to explore there, trust, teamwork, and being an outcast, which they have touched on.  Hopefully Abnett has some more good stories in him.

W: Robert Kirkman A: Charlie Adlard

The Walking Dead #160 - 'THE WHISPERER WAR': Part 4 - The war rages on.

I mean if you aren't reading The Walking Dead, I don't know what else to say. The Whisper War has been good so far and I love the use of Negan.  There are a multitude of ways that this could end and I can't wait to see where it goes. Sometimes I almost feel like there should be a spin off with Negan and his establishing a new saviors group. However, if Kirkman was to do that, I think he would do it in The Walking Dead fashion where he kills Rick off and takes the group over. I don't see that happening, but with Kirkman anything is possible.  That is the joy of this book.

W:Jeff Lemire A: Charles Soule

Death Of X #3 - Cyclops and Emma Frost start to hatch their plan. The Inhumans cross a line with the mutants.

This event makes me a little sad because it basically got rid of the X-Men in the current timeline. However, with the new announcements of all the X books coming back. I can't wait to see how where this goes and how it turns out. They are bringing back Blue and Gold teams so this has to lead somewhere good.

Think I missed something or that I suck.  Let me know if the comments.

5 Must Buys 10/26/16

Hola nerdmigos, happy Monday. This week has a lot of good books coming out, a lot, a lot.  To keep it to five books, I had to cut Flash and The Titans, which I have been greatly enjoying. I also had to cut Birthright and Decender.  It is very interesting that the Clone Conspiracy, which has been very good thus far, is tying into Prowler #1.  I can't tell if it will make people mad and quit the Clone Conspiracy or that it will make people that wouldn't have bought it buy it. Aside from Star Wars and Punisher Marvel had a meh week this week. 

BOOK OF THE WEEK

W: James Tynion IV A: Alvaro Martinez

Detective Comics #943 - THE VICTIM SYNDICATE' part one! Batman can't save everyone; innocent people sometimes fall in the war against evil that he's declared in Gotham. But what happens when those victims start to fight back, and they don't only blame the criminals who shattered their lives? Batman's never faced an enemy like this, and his team may find themselves questioning everything they know about what heroes do!

This has been my favorite book that has been launched out of Rebirth, minus the Monsterman crossover, which was good, but not great. Tynion has a knack for writing Batman and finds his voice with ease. SPOILER*****I saw that a lot of people were really excited when they "killed" off Tim Drake saying that he was the worst Robin ever, but I don't get all the Red Robin hate. I can't wait until they explore this team a little more and LOVE, the inclusion of Clayface as a good guy.  There is so much potential there. This has been the better of the Bat books so far.

W: Christopher Priest A:Joe Bennett

Deathstroke #5 -  'The Professional' part five! After Slade kidnaps Damian and leaves Rose in the care of Batman, the World's Greatest Assassin and the World's Greatest Detective trade partners in a battle of wills!

This has been one of the best Deathstroke stories that I have ever read, as well as being one of the best Rebirth titles. I have never read anything by Priest before, but have heard good things. Reading Deathstroke, I can see why he is held in such great regard. Deathstroke is very easy to mess up, writing about him killing people with no real substance to his character.  Priest does a great job of exploring who Deathstroke is while still letting him kick @$$.

W: Joshua WIlliamson A: Jason Shawn Alexander

Frostbite #2 - The start of their journey did not go exactly as planned, but Keaton made a deal to get Vic to Alcatraz safely, and nothing will dissuade her from carrying out her contract. With their main transport knocked out, and roving gangs looking to block their path, Keaton and crew are going to have to get clever if they're going to stay alive

This book surprised the hell out of me. It was really good and there was a turn that I didn't see coming. I can't wait to see where this book goes.  It reminded me of the Book Of Eli movie mixed with Maze Runner book series for some reason. Williamson is great at world building and hooking the reader with an intriguing premise mixed with dark and real world characters. I can't believe how many good books he is currently writing. This is a book that you should be jumping on early.

W: Robert Kirkman A: Paul Azaceta

Outcast #22 - 'The Ticking Clock' Another friend has fallen victim to dark forces. Can Kyle and Anderson save them in time?

This book is so dark and disturbing, that it makes me worry a little bit about Robert Kirkman.  What kind of messed up thoughts are in his head to make him think of this dark stuff. However, I am very grateful because this book is amazing and addicting. This is one of the books that every time a new arc starts I go back and read the previous arc in one sitting. It makes the book much more enjoyable and I have caught things that I missed on the first read. Deep dark and compelling. This is a must read.

W: Fred Van Lente A: Francis Portela

Generation Zero #3 - Generation Zero came to Rook, Michigan to investigate a strange death, and the clues have led them into the halls of an even stranger high school! But only one person knows what really happened to Keisha Sherman's tragically deceased boyfriend: Rook High's reigning queen bee! Now, this reformed squad of walking warheads will have to forgo their usual military tactics, and wage a psychic infiltration into the mind of Rook's most popular teenager! But, as they experience the truth through her eyes, what even darker revelations might spill forth about a town where murder, deception, and deceit lurk behind every picket pence? Out of the pages of HARBINGER WARS, Project Rising Spirit's tempestuous team of super-powered radicals is about to get slayed by the bell, courtesy of New York Times best-selling writer Fred Van Lente (IVAR, TIMEWALKER) and red-hot artists Francis Portela (FAITH) and TBD.

So far, this has been my favorite Valiant story for awhile. At least until the Kommander Bloodshot comes out.  The preview for that looks amazing, but that may be because I love the original Red Dawn. Anyways, this book has a mysterious intrigue that makes me very impatient to see what is going to happen.

Think I am crazy or bias.  Let me know if the comments section.

5 Must Buys 10/19/16

Hey guys, happy Monday. Sorry I missed my Thursday post.  I was in a fender bender on Wednesday night and had to deal with insurance stuff. So wasn't able to do my Thursday post. Man, last week there were some great books. I think Kill Or Be Killed was my favorite followed by Briggs Land, All Star Batman, and Punisher. Darth Vadar was amazing and I am devastated that the series is over.  So on to this week.  There are a lot of good books out this week. So many in fact that I had to leave off both Dark Horse books Dept. H, which I love and Black Hammer, which is a very strange but intriguing book.  I also had to leave off Batman and Nightwing, both starting new arcs.  So let's get to it.

BOOK OF THE WEEK

W: Frank Miller, Brian Azzarello A: Andy Kubert

Dark Knight III: The Master Race #6 - Is Gotham City ready for a new Batgirl?!

I have enjoyed this new series greatly.  I do not think it was just a cash grab.  I do think that they wanted to tell an interesting story, but should have waited before publishing the series until they had it completed or almost complete. The constant delays and rewrites, are driving people nuts.  A lot of people have lost interest in this book or can't remember what is going on.  I love the concept of the mini books on these explaining the DK Universe of that character.  I would love an ongoing with some of these characters or a Justice League type of book where they follow the team but sometimes focus on a particular character. The potential of having an old grizzled dark heroes would be awesome.

W: Dan Abnett A: Scot Eaton - Wayne Faucher 

Aquaman # 9 - 'UNSTOPPABLE' part two! In the shocking conclusion to this story, the unstoppable juggernaut carves a new path toward Aquaman's hometown of Amnesty Bay. So far, Arthur's attempts to halt the creature have been fruitless, but to save his friends and neighbors, the sea king must do the unthinkable.

This has been the best Aquaman story that I have ever read.  I always thought he was kind of a chump.  I almost gave up on this one until Aquaman punched Superman and Black Manta made an appearance. If you were never an Aquaman fan, this is the book that you should give a chance.

W: Jeremy Haun - Jason Hurley A: Stephen Green

Beauty #11 - The second arc of THE BEAUTY concludes! The road to revenge can be a beautiful thing.

This whole concept is strangely bizarre, but a great read. For those of you that haven't read this, basically the premise is that there is a sexually transmitted disease that makes you incredibly good looking, but also makes you burst into flames after awhile. Again strangely bizarre concept, but incredibly interesting.  

W: Dan Slott A: Giuseppe Camuncoli - Javi Garron

Amazing Spider-Man #20 - 'BEFORE 'DEAD NO MORE'... Someone in the Amazing Spider-Man's orbit dies. Peter, once again, has to choose between being Spider-Man and his personal life and it doesn't go well for him. Also, get the other side of the Spider-Man/Kingpin story from the FREE COMIC BOOK DAY story.

This is a tie in to the Clone Conspiracy story, which came out last week and was very enjoyable. This is a cross over that I am actually excited for and not just a drain on my wallet. There is a lot of potential in this.  They have already had two of my favorite Spidey villains appear.  Also, with this being the Clone Conspiracy, can't help but hope that Kaine or Ben Riley will make an appearance as the Scarlet Spider.

W: Jeff Lemire - Charles Soule A: Aaron Kuder

Death of X #2 - The X-Men and the Inhumans are on a collision course. Cyclops is missing and presumed dead. But the question on everyone’s lips is "why"? That question and more will be answered in DEATH OF X #1, a new 4-issue series launching this fall! Superstar creators Jeff Lemire (Extraordinary X-Men) and Charles Soule (Uncanny Inhumans) are joined by fan-favorite artist Aaron Kuder (Action Comics) for an incendiary tale that will change the course of Mutant kind and Inhumanity alike! As the Terrigen Mists roll across the Earth, it’s transformative properties are birthing new Inhumans across the Marvel Universe. But while the mists bring life to the Inhumans, they spell only doom for the X-Men, leaving dead or sickly mutants in their wake. As the Inhumans travel to Japan where the Terrigen Cloud has created a shocking new Inhuman, the X-Men travel to Muir Island where the cloud has caused something truly terrible. For the sake of his people, Cyclops must take action or face extinction. But how?
I love the X-Men and want so bad for this to be good.  It was off to a good start with number one, but it just drives home the point more that the Inhumans are taking the Mutants place in the Marvel Universe.  It saddens my heart that X-Men have been relegated to the C list of Comics, aside from Wolverine. They seem like an afterthought and are being separated more and more with the Marvel Universe. Soon they may join the likes of the Fantastic Four and completely disappear. However, negative implications aside, the story is off to a great start and is worth a read.

Do you think I missed something or am an idiotic fan boy?  Let me know if the comments.

Five Must Buys 10/12/16

Hola amigos.  There are so many new books coming out this week.  Quality books. It was incredibly hard for me to get it down to five.  I had to leave off a couple of my favorite books in Old Man Logan and Moon Knight as well as all of DC's Rebirth. However, this is a incredibly strong week for independents that can not be ignored. So let's get to it.

Book of the Week

W: Ed Brubaker A: Sean Phillips

Kill Or Be Killed #3 - As our hero is drawn deeper into the shadows, his secret vigilante life begins to put everything he cares about in danger. Brubaker and Phillips biggest hit yet continues, and every issue includes fantastic back page extras and articles!

This book is so good.  Dark and twisted and incredibly entertaining. Half the time I am rooting for the main character to man up and take control, the other half, I want them to kill him off. The characters feel real and flawed and stupid just like in real life. This will be the first book I read when I pick up my books. This is a series that everyone should be reading.

W: Brian Wood A: Mack Chater

Brigg's Land #3 - On a quiet highway in the predawn light, Grace encounters a true test of her empathy and her strength when she comes face to face with the worst aspects of the community she's struggling to take back.

Briggs Land is another book that is incredible and would have been book of the week any other week. The anti-government community aspect is always fascinating to me.  I am slightly concerned about big brother and everyone basically carrying tracking devices with them, in cell phones and having the most private conversations out there in digital space.  I do realize that I have nothing to hide, but I still like my privacy. Besides you can get around it if it bothers you that much with burner phones and email addresses. Sorry got a little sidetracked.  So, the aspect of a women and stepping up to run this organization is a great concept, especially with what seems like a very machismo feel to the community before she took power. 

W: Nick Spencer A: Steve Lieber - Ryan Hill

The Fix #6 - Roy investigates a high-profile murder.

The Fix is hilarious.  This is the funniest comic book that I have ever read.  This would be like training day made into a comedy and still being incredible.  The banter is smart and witty. The art is perfectly paired with the story.  This is a book that you have to catch up on. 

W: Jim Zub A:Djibril Morissette-Phan - K. Michael Russel

Glitterbomb #2 - Death, denial, and the darkness within. What's got into Farrah?

This was a book that I almost didn't pick up.  It looked like a book that was not for me.  However, I am glad that I gave it a chance.  This book was awesome. I can't wait to see where they take this book, but it seems like a lot of evil people in high places are going to get what is coming to them. It does portray those people in high places as seeing people as livestock that are there to make them money and once they have served their purpose, they are thrown away like sour milk.

W: Kieron Gillen A: Salvador Larroca

Darth Vadar #25 - FINAL ISSUE! It has all built up to this! Vader's trials against Cylo's creations! His machinations against the Emperor! His covert missions with Doctor Aphra and her murderous droids! All comes to fruition in an oversized 40-page issue by the stellar team of Kieron Gillen and Salvador Larroca! You won't want to miss this ending!

I can't believe that this book is ending.  It almost brings a tear to my eye.  This has been the best Star Wars book that has been coming out and was part of one of the best crossovers that I have read. I know there have been interviews that basically say that Guillen had a story to tell and it is over, but it was so good and there is still so much to play with, that you have to keep it going.  From what I hear the top secret Star Wars book coming out is going to be a Dr. Aphra book, which does make me happy, but Darth Vadar is the star. Vadar was so menacing and integral that without him will the story work? I hope so because I did love the two death bots and Dr. Aphra.

Think I missed something or am crazy for recommending a book, holler at your boy and let me know in the comments.

5 Must Buys 10/05/16

What up nerdmigos. It is the first week of October and a lot of new books are coming out.  This is the biggest week since the launch of DC's Rebirth.  I can't wait for some of these books and some look like a lot of and no substance.  This is going to be an expensive week for Comic Bookers. Hopefully, this will help you separate the wheat from the chaff. For DC, if you are a avid reader of this column, I am a huge fan of DC's Rebirth.  They have been killing it and it has shown in the sales numbers.  It has been really hard for me to nail this down to 2 books, so this week I cheated. I will touch on Marvel Tomorrow and the launch of Marvel NOW.

Book of the Week

W:Zachary Kaplan A: Giovanni Timpano

Eclipse #2 - In a world where sunlight kills, solar engineer David 'Bax' Baxter and police detective James Everly hunt for a mysterious butcher who doesn't burn, but their investigation into the post-apocalyptic wasteland raises more questions than answers.

This book hooked me with the preview alone and the first issue did not disappoint. This will be the first book that I read this week. Post-apocalyptic story mixed with a murder mystery, that is well written and coupled perfectly with its art style. If you haven't read the first book, you are missing out.  Strangely enough this kind of reminds me a Vampire story without the vampires.  

W: Tom Taylor W:Nicole Virella

All New Wolverine #13 - ENEMY OF THE STATE II STARTS NOW! WOLVERINE: MURDERER!!! Laura has fought so hard to be something other than what she was created to be, but the fight is over. Wolverine has blood on her hands. In the wake of an unspeakable tragedy, dark forces have Laura's life under their control. Will Laura be able to defeat demons on the outside and from within? Or will she be forced to give up the hero's life she's built for herself?

This has been 1 of the 2, X-Men related books that I keep buying and reading. They have made such a mess of the X-Men, that when this book came out, I thought it was another mistake. However, I was sorely mistaken.  Taylor has done a great job with this book and has provided something that I didn't even know I wanted.

W:Robert Kirkman A:Charlie Adlard

Walking Dead #159 - 'THE WHISPERER WAR,' Part Three, The war rages on.

What can I say about The Walking Dead that has not been said before. This is a great book that lets your imagination run wild. What would you do in this scenario? Would you live? Where would you go? Who would go with you? Who would you protect? Would you join a bigger group, even if they were evil to survive? This is one of the books that I get why people read in trades, but I am way to impatient. I can't wait to see what happens.

W: Dan Abnett A: Scot Eaton

Aquaman #8 - 'UNSTOPPABLE' part one! Arthur's investigation into the mysterious Atlantean terrorist attacks on the surface is cut short when Black Manta taps his newfound weapons cache and unleashes an unstoppable weapon upon the undersea kingdom: a relentless behemoth from the deep that lays waste to anything in its path.

This has been my favorite take on Aquaman to date and that includes Geoff John's run.  So far he has broken out of prison, destroyed a bunch of tanks and went punch for punch with superman.  Add in the fact that they are setting Black Manta up as the big bad, I'm in.  If you were like me and thought that Aquaman sucks, give this book a chance.  They even make poke fun of his status in the Justice League.



W: Tom King/Steve Orlando A: Riley Rossmo

W: Tim Seeley/Steve Orlando A: Roge Antonia



Batman #8/Nightwing #6 - 'NIGHT OF THE MONSTER MEN' part four! The giant monsters might be bad, but Gotham's heroes encounter a whole new threat level when two of their own start terrorizing the city! Batman must face the horrifying possibility of losing two of his closest allies to Hugo Strange's vicious attack./ 'NIGHT OF THE MONSTER MEN' part five! The hunt for Hugo Strange rages onward as the Manipulator rises and uses the citizens of Gotham City to shield itself from the Bat-Family. All while the monstrous version of Nightwing looms over Gotham City.

 

This is Rebirth's first Crossover and thank goodness it is relatively short or it would put me in the poor house. Thankfully DC has kept its $2.99 pricing.  It has been good this far and I really like the fact that they reference Zero Year in this book. They have most of the Bat family involved in this story, which makes it a stronger book. Steve Orlando has been working with each writer, so this crossover seems to flow better than most. I am sure most people are picking this up, but if you are not, you are missing out.

 

Let me know if I am wrong or crazy, or tell me if you think you would survive the Zombie Apocalypse and how you would be a better Rick than Rick.

5 Must Buys 09/28/16

Happy Monday. I am really pumped for this week.  There are a ton of new books coming out as well as a lot of new series that I am super pumped for. However, you all know that it is impossible to scoop them all up.  So I am trying to whittle it down to 5 books.  Unfortunately or fortunately, Civil War II has not been very good. This eliminates a lot of Marvel books for me. Side Note: I say this is unfortunate because the industry is at its best when Marvel, DC and the Independents are all going strong.  Don't get me wrong Marvel has some great books with Vision, Moon Knight, Dr. Strange, Black Panther, Old Man Logan and the Star Wars books. However, Civil War II is coming off more as a money grab and possibly Marvel trying to push the Inhumans down our throat. I do have a conspiracy theory that I will be writing about sometimes soon.  Anyways, here they are the top five books of the week.

Book of the week

W: Fred Van Lente A: Francis Portella

Generation Zero #2 - They've infiltrated, assassinated, and overthrown. Now this reformed covert strike team of teenage walking warheads have set their sights on a dangerous new mission: high school! In the secretive tech oasis of Rook, Michigan, who can a teenager trust? Not the police… Not the teachers… And definitely not the parents. So when high schooler Keisha Sherman's boyfriend turns up dead in an accident gone awry, she makes a desperate plea, and Generation Zero have heeded her call! But, with precision-honed military training and a taste for subverting authority, can this squad of high-powered, teenage superhumans infiltrate Rook undetected? Or is their very presence about to draw another of the town's billion-dollar secrets into the light of day?

This is a book that has the potential to be great, in fact it has the potential to be the best story that Valiant is putting out. I don't want to spoil anything for anyone, but the first issue was a great setup with a great hook. I can't wait to see what happens.  This is one of those books that you read and you are suspicious of almost every character.  Whether they have ulterior motives or not, you are still suspicious and reluctant to trust them.

W: Joshua Williamson A: Carmine Di Giandomenico

Flash #7 - 'LIGHTNING STRIKES TWICE' part 7! Still reeling from Godspeed's devastating attack, the beleaguered Flash realizes that to defeat this menacing new foe he must take away the Speed Force power from Central City's new citizen speedsters. There's only one problem: they don't want to give it back.

This is a book that I am glad is coming out on a bi-monthly schedule. The last book left us on a cliff hanger and I can't wait to see what happens next. Williamson has been doing an incredible job crafting this new Flash story with twists and turns that you did not see coming.  This has consistently been one of the best Rebirth titles. This is one that if you haven't yet go back and catch up. 

Writer: Robert Kirkman A: Paul Azaceta & Elizabeth Breitweiser

Outcast #21 - 'Blood is Spilled' Kyle is in danger, and Anderson will risk it all to help him. But is it a sacrifice he can't recover from?

This is a book that is hard to talk about without completely spoiling it.  It is also one of those books that you can't just jump into. You have to go back and start at the beginning, which I strongly recommend at least getting the first trade.  If you are not hooked by the time you finish, this is not the book for you. This is a dark and twisted story that you have to read.  My cousin argues with me that this is best read in trade form.  However, the story is too good and I am too impatient. 

W: Jason Aaron A: Jorge Molina

Star Wars #23 - The rebels have pulled off the impossible; they've stolen a Star Destroyer. But why? To what end? Can they hold her together? And who's in charge of this madness, anyway - Han or Leia?

As you guys know, I am a total Star Wars fanboy.  This book has been so much fun and feels like it is a continuation of the movies. Aaron has found the voice of the characters and tone of the universe.  This book is well written and compelling. I mean they stole a freakin' Star Destroyer. RAMMING SPEED. What else do you want?

W: Dan Abnett W: Brett Booth & Norm Rapmund

Titans #3 - 'The Return of Wally West' part 3. The Titans receive word that Karen Beecher - Duncan-a.k.a. Bumblebee - has been kidnapped! Is there a connection between a shadowy new foe and the intergalactic demon that stole their memories?

This is another book that I can't wait to see what they do. I have a ton of questions about this book. How they are going to reincorporate Wally into the universe and team?  Who else is going to be added to the team?  Is this the book that is going to explain rebirth and the possible Watchman connection? If they drag this on too long they may ruin this series, but if they handle it right this book can be amazing.

Let me know if you disagree or think I left something out.  

5 Must Buys 9/21/16

Happy Monday. Another week, another bunch of great comics coming out.  So here I am to help whittle it down by recommending the top five books of the week.  This week this week is a strong week for DC and Rebirth. Green Arrow and Superman have both been strong, but do not make the top five.  So here are the top five. 

Book of the Week

W: Tom King A: Gabriel Hernandez Walta

Vision #11 - The Avengers draw a line in the sand. They tell Vision he is not to cross this line. If he does, they will destroy him. 'Remember,' they say. 'You're an Avenger. First. Always.' 'Stay where you are,' they say. 'Don't cross the line,' they say. Vision nods. He tells them he understands. Then Vision crosses the line. The end is coming for the most critically acclaimed book of the year, and no one is safe. Don't miss the issue everyone will be talking about.  Also, hail Hydra.

With Tom King's penultimate issue of Vision, if you aren't or haven't read this series you are missing out.  I have heard this compared to the Breaking Bad of Marvel. It is a dark tale that you can't put down one you start.  This is one that I almost wish came out bi-weekly instead of monthly. Vision has never been a compelling character for me, but this series has really sucked me in. The character depth in this book incredibly compelling. This is a must read for any comic reader.  This has been better than the Batman Tom King has been writing, even though Batman has been strong.  If you have Marvel Unlimited the first 5 issues are available to read.

W: Dan Abnett A: Scot Eaton, Wayne Faucher

Aquaman #7 - 'Who framed Aquaman?' The investigation into the Atlantean attack on American forces kicks off a mystery as the criminal collective N.E.M.O. unleashes a new and terrible weapon that threatens the existence of Atlantis itself.

This is another character that seems pretty boring. However, in the last issue Aquaman and Mera went toe to toe with Superman and held their own, This arc has been great and Black Manta is one of my favorite villains and they are setting something up that has potential.  If you have never given Aquaman a chance, this is the book that you should give him a try.

W:Tom King, Steve Orlando A: Riley Rossmo

Batman #7 - 'NIGHT OF THE MONSTER MEN' part 1! The first crossover of the 'Rebirth' era is here! As a huge storm approaches, Batman, Batwoman, and Nightwing try and prepare Gotham City for the worst, but nothing can prepare them for enormous tall monsters rampaging through the streets! Batman will need all of his allies to unite in order to stop these mad science monsters from tearing their city apart!

W: Tom Seeley, Steve Orlando A: Roge Antonia

Nightwing #5 - 'NIGHT OF THE MONSTER MEN' part 1! The first crossover of the 'Rebirth'era is here! As a huge storm approaches, Batman, Batwoman, and Nightwing try and prepare Gotham City for the worst, but nothing can prepare them for enormous tall monsters rampaging through the streets! Batman will need all of his allies to unite in order to stop these mad science monsters from tearing their city apart!

This is the first crossover of Rebirth and of course it is a bat book. Nightwing and Batman both have been off to strong starts. Usually I am not a fan of cross overs because it can get expensive fast, especially when they try and hit every bat title like Death In The Family. I thought it was a good story, but it stretched into besides Batman and Detective Comics it crossed through Batman And Robing, Teen Titans, Nightwing, Catwoman, Red Hood And The Outlaws, Batgirl and Suicide Squad and totaled 23 books. Although the story was great, that is exhausting and expensive. However, this one is relatively short, 6 books total and goes between Batman, Nightwing and Detective Comics. I think most bat fans are picking up at least Batman and Detective Comics and about half are picking up Nightwing.

W: Becky Cloonan A: Steve Dillon

Punisher #5 - ENTER ASYLUM: FIND NO SANCTUARY. The Punisher tracks Condor's EMC operation to its source, a deserted psychiatric hospital. Can Frank take down an asylum full of drug-enhanced killers, or will he become an inmate himself?! Agent Ortiz is close behind. She's rescuing her partner, and she's done with following protocol.

This Punisher book has been the best Punisher that I have read for a while now. Basically kicking @#$ and taking names. This book uses the typical Punisher tropes, but it in way that is enjoyable.  It is like the action flick where you know what is coming, but you still want to see how they get there.  Dillon has done great work with the visuals and the layout.

If you think I missed something or had something undeserving on the list.  Let me know in the comments section.