CAN RONNIE RAYMOND BE SAVED? Firehawk and Martin Stein arrive in Pittsburgh with a plan to save Ronnie from the Firestorm Matrix! But is Ronnie too far gone inside of his own mind to truly be saved?

Author: Jeff Lemire
Artist: Rafael de Latorre

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This continues to be some excellent storytelling, combining the now along with some flashbacks. The flashbacks did make me smile, with some silver-age banter between the Justice League.

This makes an interesting link between what is going on in Firestorm’s head now, combined with the worries of when he first joined.

With that, there is an interesting attempt to get to the mind of Ronnie – lost in the Firestorm matrix – and it nearly works, but at least it shows that he is there.

Where this leads will be interesting, but it also shows the strength of the character and something for the future.

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The Fur Of The Firestorm #5

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A 44 page, black & white, American comic-sized, square-bound, self-contained, folk horror graphic novel by J.A. Short & David Hitchcock

A brand new, self-contained, 44- page, black and white folk-horror graphic novel... Created by John A. Short – The writer behind Nosferatu II, Helga Frankenstein, Reverend Cross, Captain Wylde and Britannia Macabre! And David Hitchcock – The artist behind The Sixpenny Murder, Diabolica, Nosferatu II and Springheeled Jack!

At the height of the English Civil War, in the middle of British witch-hunt craze - an ancient evil stalks the small mist shrouded village of Gravesmoor. Out on the mire an unstoppable creature kills without mercy and then sucks marrow from the bones of the dead. Can no-one stand up to this unspeakable abomination? Three women… cunning folk… healers… seerers… defenders... Themselves hunted by hostile unbending religious zealots and crooked coin-counters… Step forward! A dark tale of blood, death and horror. Witchfinders! Zombies! Goblins! Imps! Green Men! Devs! Round-Heads! Witches!

The Sisters Three: Gravesmoor

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• RELEASE DATE: 12th August July £3.99

• US RELEASE DATE: 26th August $7.99

• COVER: CLIFF ROBINSON WITH DYLAN TEAGUE

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JUDGE DREDD // THE OUBLIETTE by Ken Niemand (w) Jake Lynch (a) Emily Roach (c) Annie Parkhouse (l)

After the cliffhanger in the tower, we return to the Finders, with some excellent links to the city we know and some good action too. I’m frustrated about the cliffhanger but enjoyed the Finders.

BRINK // THE CALL OF THE VOID by Dan Abnett (w) INJ Culbard (a) Simon Bowland (l)

Following on from the last issue, we get some good fallout, then leading us onto something a lot darker and more psychological here with a very interesting aspect. This story is ramping up!

NIGHTMARE NEW YORK // BOOK TWO by Kek-W (w) David Roach (a) Peter Doherty (c) Annie Parkhouse (l)

The rescue and the threat are revealed well here, and it sets up the short-term of the story as well as the long-term issues. Some brilliant art too.

YOUNG DEATH // FREDERICK by Kek-W (w) Lee Carter (a) Rob Steen (l)

A look at the history of Young Death, and I like how it plays out with him getting the book that leads him along the path he is now on. A good combination!

THE FALL OF DEADWORLD // JUSTICE by Kek-W (w) Dave Kendall (a) Simon Bowland (l)

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Available in print from: 2000 AD webshop, book stores, Amazon, and comic book stores via Diamond

Available in digital from: 2000 AD webshop, 2000 AD app for Apple & Android

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Strapped to a nightmarish operating table, Genshi faces a brutal “living autopsy” as a fanatical cult seeks to rip the Tengu from his soul, forcing him to make a deadly choice that will either end his life… or unleash the monster within.

Author: Mark London
Artist: Jaime Infante

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For an issue where Genshi spends most of it strapped to a table, there is actually plenty going on. I really like how the story plays out with Genshi battling on both the outside and the inside, giving us two different types of conflict at the same time. Although physically he is very much at the mercy of those around him, mentally there is still a fight going on, and that keeps the issue moving.

Genshi is in serious trouble after the events of the last issue, and we find him strapped to a table while the plan for the world is laid out in front of us. The aim is nothing less than world domination, with the Tengu being an important part of that plan. Of course, Genshi is not exactly suited to the role in their eyes, and the plan is to abstract the Tengu from him and place it into a body that is more willing to accept what they want to do.

I like the way this gives us more information about what the villains are actually trying to achieve. It is not simply about capturing Genshi or defeating him; there is a much bigger plan at work, and the Tengu is effectively being treated as a tool to achieve that. There is also something quite personal about the way Genshi is being treated, particularly when you consider the relationship that has developed between him and the Tengu.

While the physical attack is happening, there is also something taking place on the mental plane. Genshi and the Tengu are looking for a way to escape, and this gives us another side to their relationship. They have to work together, and the internal struggle works well alongside what is happening to Genshi physically. It makes the action feel more layered rather than simply being another fight.

This was an excellent issue, with some great action pieces and a story that works particularly well with the main characters involved – Genshi and the Tengu. There is a good balance between finding out more about the plan and seeing the characters trying to survive what is happening to them. The outcome also provides a strong hook for the next issue, while moving us towards understanding what the foe is after on a much more personal level.

I really enjoyed the artwork here as well. The distinction between the ‘real world’ and the internal aspects involving the Tengu works really well, giving the issue a different feel depending on where we are. The artwork handles the action particularly well, but it is the internal sequences that really stand out for me. There is also some excellent colouring throughout, helping to bring both sides of the story to life.

Overall, this is another strong issue that manages to move the story forward while giving us plenty of action and more insight into Genshi and the Tengu. Even with Genshi spending much of the issue strapped to a table, he is certainly not sitting around doing nothing!

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Honor And Curse: Eternal #5

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In the final issue of Seven Wives, detectives Aguilar and Halwell continue to interrogate the many wives of murdered cult leader Matthew Dunn. They’re sure one of his celestial brides is guilty of killing the corrupt divine leader.

With each line of questioning, they slowly uncover a truth too horrifying to face. Matthew’s many locked doors protect secrets that escalate the homicide investigation into an explosive and damning case with an unlikely character at its center. But even with the piles of evidence, the FLDS church and its members may be too powerful to prosecute.

Author: Zoe Tunnell
Artist: Keyla Valerio

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This issue does an excellent job of wrapping up the many loose ends of the story while still giving us an open ending that leaves us thinking about the state of the world in which these characters reside. There is a feeling that the story has reached its conclusion, but at the same time, the door is left open for something else in the future. There is even the possibility that we could see some of these characters again, which is something I would certainly be interested in.

Bringing together all of the different threads of the story would always be a tough job. With all the wives, the church community and the various supporting characters involved, this has been a fairly convoluted read at times. However, the work done across the previous issues in establishing the relationships and personalities really pays off here. We understand the connections between the characters and, more importantly, their motivations, which makes some of the character moments in this issue particularly effective.

The tension is also excellent as we make our way towards the ending. A lot of this comes from the residents of the church community and the atmosphere that has been building around them, but there is also the ongoing tension of the investigation itself. This moves us nicely into the detective side of the story, showing not only the frustrations that come with trying to get answers but also the different methods used during the investigation. There are some interesting political aspects to this as well, showing that the investigation is not simply about finding out what happened but also about who is involved and what the consequences might be.

The ending itself is an interesting one. It is certainly not as cut and dried as you might expect, and I think that works particularly well for this story. There is some closure, but it comes in more ways than one, with certain elements being resolved while others are deliberately left open. It gives the reader something to think about rather than simply tying everything up neatly and moving on.

The artwork continues to do an excellent job throughout the issue, particularly when it comes to showing the varying emotions of the characters. There is a lot happening beneath the surface, and the expressions and body language help to reinforce that. The artwork also works well with the flashbacks, helping to distinguish these moments while adding to the history and context of the story.

Overall, this is a strong conclusion to Seven Wives. It manages to bring together a complicated set of characters and storylines, provides some satisfying closure, and still leaves enough unanswered to keep the wider world and these characters interesting. Combined with the detective elements, the darker church setting and the excellent artwork, it makes for a fitting end to the story.

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• Bundles of Conan comics from Ablaze.

• Details on the second issue of This Land Is Old And Dark.

• A new addition from Rebellion with Judge Dredd: Compact Crimes Volume One.

• And Brass Sun Volume One is coming soon.

Savage Swords & Mythic Tales from Ablaze

Over on Fantatical, Ablaze Publishing has a selection of Conan comics with three different levels!

Unleash your inner Cimmerian and journey into realms of blood, magic, and breathtaking wonder with this spellbinding selection of epic fantasy, sword-and-sorcery and more, including a collection of comic books set in the award-winning Robert E. Howard’s original savage Conan universe as well as legendary and award-winning stories crafted by world-class writers and artists.

Snap up your copy today and unlock your inner barbarian.

Savage Swords & Mythic Tales

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This Land Is Old And Dark #2 FOC From Invader Comics

Invader Comics has released details of This Land Is Old And Dark #2 - FOC is on the 31st of August, and it’s out on the 28th of October.

Written by RYAN CROWE
Art by ABEL GARCIA
Covers by ABEL GARCIA, ANDY SAWYERS & MICHAEL KALUTA

Banished and bloodied, Jacques Du Lac survived the woods outside Fort Courage — but the nightmare followed him home. Rescued by the fierce warrior Longhunter and her unlikely band of exiles, Jacques is dragged deeper into The Vast. When he plummets into the Skinwalkers’ lair, he emerges changed, carrying a terrible understanding of what these creatures truly are.

Back inside the fort’s walls, his wife Virginia and daughter Marie wage a quieter war — against the cruelty of the Council, and against the growing certainty that the walls of Fort Courage protect them from nothing.

Pre-order here:

This Land Is Old And Dark #2

Announcing Judge Dredd: Compact Crimes Volume One

Joining in on the compact comics, Rebellion has announced their first volume with Judge Dredd: Compact Crimes Volume One from the pages of 2000 AD.

CUTTING CRIME DOWN TO SIZE!

No crime is too small, no punishment too big — as the classic cases of Judge Dredd come in a brand new series with a brand new format!

Judge Dredd: Compact Crimes collects the bestselling adventures of the ultimate lawman of the future in the popular compact format, bringing the best of British comics to a whole new audience.

Launching on 26 January, this is the ideal place to start your Judge Dredd library — from the beginning, starting with his very first cases!

The series’ new-reader-friendly format brings this bestselling evergreen series to a brand new 210×148mm (8¼ × 5⅞ in) trim format of trade paperback novels, priced at £9.99 in the UK and $12.99 in the USA.

For fifty years, the zero-tolerance cop has been delivering justice on the dangerous streets of the future-shocked metropolis Mega-City One. Released to coincide with the 50th anniversary of Judge Dredd and his home, the cult sci-fi weekly comic 2000 AD, volume one kickstarts the new Compact Crimes series in a shelf-friendly format, with a price point that’s perfect for introducing new readers to UK’s most successful comics character.

As well as stories by Pat Mills (Marshal Law) and John Wagner (Star Wars: Boba Fett), the first volume features artwork from British comics royalty, including Brian Bolland (Batman: The Killing Joke), Mick McMahon (The Last American), Ian Gibson (Halo Jones) and more.

In February 2027, 2000 AD will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a series of special events and publications highlighting the legacy and impact of five decades of groundbreaking comics, which have helped fundamentally change comic book and world culture. Appearing in the second issue of 2000 AD in 1977, Judge Dredd soon became its biggest character, leading to two major feature film adaptations as well as countless comics sold across the globe.

Collecting every case in order from almost five decades of 2000 AD, Compact Crimes will bring readers the groundbreaking classics that have made Judge Dredd a global name!

Judge Dredd: Compact Crimes Vol.1 will be available on 26 January from all good book and comic book stores, as well as from online retailers and digitally from 2000 AD’s webshop and app.

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Brass Sun Volume One

Coming soon from Rebellion and the pages of 2000 AD is the excellent Brass Sun Volume One.

• CREATIVE TEAM: Ian Edginton (w) INJ Culbard (a) Ellie DeVille (l)

• RELEASE DATE: September 24th

• HARDBACK, 208 pages

• PRICE: £21.99

The Orrery is a fully functioning, life-sized clockwork solar system. Several planets attached to huge metal spars, orbit a great brass sun. For many years, these worlds have fought amongst each other and many have degenerated into minor kingdoms. Worse yet, the sun has begun to wind down, and the outer worlds are starting to freeze while the rest will inevitably follow.

Wren, a young girl who lives on the outer world of Hind Leg, is tasked by her scientist grandfather to find the lost pieces of a key that can restart the sun....

Available in print from: 2000 AD webshop, book stores, Amazon, and comic book stores via Diamond

Available in digital from: 2000 AD webshop, 2000 AD app for Apple & Android

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The Omega Book #1

The Omega Book has the secrets of the universe in it. All of them. And the priest Brady Parsons has just inherited pages of it from his father.

But now, everyone wants that knowledge, they’ll do anything to get it, and if the book falls into the wrong hands it will end the world. No, the universe.

To stop that from happening, Brady enters a world of science and mystery he never imagined, he’ll see and do things that nobody has ever seen or done, and he’ll uncover the truth about the amazing things the Omega Book can do, its origins and even about the father he’s hated his whole life.

Author: James Patrick
Artist: Pauli Junquera

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A great introduction to a new story. I really liked the concept, mixing science fiction with some of the more out-there aspects of the universe. Adding in a murder mystery and mysterious people and organisations trying to get hold of the book was great.

There is some fantastic art in here, with the world’s building, universal aspects and the various special effects and weapons.

The cliffhanger ending is a fantastic hook for the rest of the story, and I’m looking forward to seeing where it goes.

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The Omega Book #1

Honourable Mentions:

• The Smart Division #1 from Dark Horse Comics – an interesting twist on modern technology, a generational gap and the near future.

• Bludwire #2 from Mad Cave Studios – a packed issue with action and an excellent chase. The relationship between the two continues to intrigue!

• Money Shot: The F* Offs #1 from Vault Comics – a fun and sexy romp to begin the story, with new characters and new threats. A good jumping-on point.

• Batman #12 from DC Comics – a new character and addition to the Bat-family. There is action and a memorable page in the lift too.

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• RELEASE DATE: 5th August July £3.99

• US RELEASE DATE: 19th August $7.99

• COVER: COLIN MACNEIL

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JUDGE DREDD // THE OUBLIETTE by Ken Niemand (w) Dan Cornwell (a) Chris Blythe (c) Annie Parkhouse (l)

An excellent montage of Dredd working his way up the tower, with an excellent cliffhanger at the end. I love the action of it, and the reactions are very interesting.

BRINK // THE CALL OF THE VOID by Dan Abnett (w) INJ Culbard (a) Simon Bowland (l)

Some clever action here and all about the action in this issue. It’s very clever and well played out – setting us up nicely for what is to come.

NIGHTMARE NEW YORK // BOOK TWO by Kek-W (w) David Roach (a) Peter Doherty (c) Annie Parkhouse (l)

OK, so the Selkie is going to be a factor – not too helpful though. I like the history side of it and it adds nicely to the mythology of the story.

FUTURE SHOCKS // A ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE ALPHABET by James Lovegrove (w) Russell M Olson (a) Rob Steen (l)

Another fun alphabet – bridging the two dark tales well, with plenty of fun!

THE FALL OF DEADWORLD // JUSTICE by Kek-W (w) Dave Kendall (a) Simon Bowland (l)

Some decention in the ranks, and it links up nicely to the story. I love the artwork and the expressions, and it has some dark action!

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Available in print from: 2000 AD webshop, book stores, Amazon, and comic book stores via Diamond

Available in digital from: 2000 AD webshop, 2000 AD app for Apple & Android

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A dark and modern sci-fi detective series set five minutes in the future. When a mysterious new predictive artificial intelligence program appears responsible for assisting someone in the perfect murder, a pair of unlikely investigators, a chaotic Gen-Z savant and a veteran FBI agent, must hunt down the killer by starting the FBI’s first AI crimes division.

Author: Zack Kaplan
Artist: John J. Pearson

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Set in the near future, The Smart Division gives us a Black Mirror-look at how AI can affect crime and the technology behind it.

We always think about AI taking over the world – or all our water systems and natural resources – but with generative AI writing and making art, what is the next step?

Crime.

What if the next criminal isn’t a person but a rogue AI which is attempting the perfect crime?

There are many questions in this initial issue of this new mini-series, and most of them are asked by the two detectives on the case, and they add a new dimension to the story being told. With the two of them we get a rejigged combination of an older trope, with the old agent being more cynical and set in his ways. He plays it more by the book, and his frustration shows through the story. On the other side is the younger, Gen Z agent, with a different mindset and more knowledge on the technology and people behind it.

It’s very clever, and the tension between the two is well worked and has its ups and downs as we progress through the story. There are a lot of introductions with the characters, and I enjoyed the introductions to them both as we build towards the initial murder as well as the explosive ending.

The artwork is incredible, with some brilliantly plotted scenes, and the painted style with the colours and shadows adds to the tone of the story well. This, along with the lettering, makes this a joy to read.

This is an excellent beginning with engaging characters and a great hook of a storyline. This, combined with the striking artwork, colours and lettering, makes this an engaging read, and I can’t wait to see where it goes.

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It had to happen! In the grand tradition of Secret Wars, Crisis of Absolute Proportions, and Battle of the Network Stars comes a massive cosmic crossover! A strange force has returned after millennia to gather the finest champions from across the galaxy to compete in grand games. But there’s no fighting here. No, this is THE F%CK OFFS! Some will win! Some will lose! And everyone will come! From the geniuses of debauchery, Tim Seeley, Patton Oswalt, and Garth Graham, comes the horniest arc of Money Shot yet.

Writers: Tim Seely and Patton Oswalt
Artist: Garth Graham​
Colorist: Maksim Strelkov
Letterer: Crank!
Cover Art: Garth Graham

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I think this works as a good jumping-on point for newer readers of Money Shot. I would say that you get the idea of the story pretty quickly, and although there are references to past adventures, these don’t confuse or amend any enjoyment in reading this salacious series.

After the initial introductions, things begin moving pretty quickly with an intergalactic-type competition and many new aliens to contend with. There are some old foes too, which adds to the tension. In addition to this, there is a new character introduced, which adds to the tension as he seems to have buttoned onto the teams’ ways and made one out for himself.

Of course there is a degree of danger – sexy times with aliens are, of course, going to have their own risks, and this issue shows them off while adding an entertaining air of mystery and threat to the story.

There is some entertaining and risqué artwork here, with some clever in-jokes and designs of characters. I love the expressions and character work of all the team as well as the side looks of others.

This was an intriguing beginning to a new adventure which sets things up nicely and adds a nice cliffhanger at the end!

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Money Shot: The F* Offs #1

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The Omega Book #1

The Omega Book has the secrets of the universe in it. All of them. And the priest Brady Parsons has just inherited pages of it from his father.

But now, everyone wants that knowledge, they’ll do anything to get it, and if the book falls into the wrong hands it will end the world. No, the universe.

To stop that from happening, Brady enters a world of science and mystery he never imagined, he’ll see and do things that nobody has ever seen or done, and he’ll uncover the truth about the amazing things the Omega Book can do, its origins and even about the father he’s hated his whole life.

Author: James Patrick
Artist: Pauli Junquera

The Omega Book #1 is a remarkably clever opening issue that wastes no time in drawing the reader into its mystery. It begins with an introduction and a shocking death, but rather than simply following those events, the story quickly shifts perspective to the son. Making him a priest rather than a scientist is an inspired decision, as it immediately creates an interesting conflict between faith and the impossible discoveries that begin to unfold before him. His perspective grounds the story, even as everything around him becomes increasingly extraordinary.

Running alongside the main narrative is a mysterious commentary that reveals just enough information to keep you intrigued without giving too much away. It not only hints at the immediate danger facing the characters but also expands the scope of the story, suggesting that what we are witnessing is only a small part of something far greater. It is an excellent storytelling device that builds anticipation while steadily laying the foundations for what promises to be a sprawling science-fiction epic.

The issue is packed with imaginative sci-fi concepts and exciting action. The technology on display feels wonderfully inventive, balancing awe-inspiring ideas with an underlying sense of unease. As events unfold across different points in time, dimensions and even space itself, the narrative remains surprisingly easy to follow while continually expanding its ambitions.

The artwork plays a huge part in making all of this work. The artists capture both the quieter emotional moments and the large-scale science-fiction spectacle with equal confidence. Every environment feels distinct, while the visual effects surrounding the advanced technology and dimensional shifts are striking without becoming overwhelming. The colouring deserves particular praise for helping establish the atmosphere, whether it’s moments of quiet reflection or scenes filled with cosmic chaos and danger.

The mythology surrounding the Omega Book itself is another highlight. We only receive fragments of information about what it contains and why it is so important, but those glimpses are enough to make it feel like an object of incredible significance. Rather than explaining everything immediately, the creative team allows the mystery to grow naturally, making each new revelation feel meaningful. The forces hunting the book are equally compelling. Their motivations remain largely unknown, but their methods are unsettling, inventive and undeniably lethal, making them an immediate and believable threat.

Perhaps the strongest element, however, is the journey of the son. His entire belief system is challenged within the space of a single issue, forcing him to confront events that simply cannot be explained through the life he has known. Watching his certainty unravel while he struggles to make sense of the impossible makes him an engaging protagonist, and by the time the issue reaches its cliffhanger, it is impossible not to wonder where his journey will take him next.

Overall, this is an outstanding debut issue that perfectly balances mystery, science fiction, philosophy and action. It introduces fascinating ideas without becoming inaccessible, builds an intriguing mythology around the Omega Book itself, and delivers spectacular artwork that elevates every page. By the final cliffhanger, it has established an exciting premise and left me eager to discover what lies ahead.

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The Omega Book #1

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Bludwire #2

Ace and Zora thought they could disappear into a crowd. So their corporate hunters turned the crowd into a battlefield.

Anyone near them is collateral damage. Any act of mercy is a liability. And there’s nowhere left to run… except towards each other.

The chase gets louder, the choices get harder, and the past tightens its grip in the incredible second issue of this high-octane love story for the ages.

Author: Paul Allor
Artists: Victor Ibanez, and Ermitis Blanco

Following the strong introduction in the previous issue, Bludwire #2 immediately shifts the story into a much higher gear. With the world and its core concepts already established, this issue is able to focus on the action and character development, resulting in a much faster pace that keeps the momentum going from beginning to end.

Ace and Zora are on the run, attempting to escape with the information they have uncovered, but they quickly discover that danger is coming from every direction. Both humans and robots are pursuing them, creating a constant sense of pressure that rarely lets up. The chase sequences are well handled, balancing frantic action with quieter moments that allow the story to breathe. We are also introduced to some of the figures orchestrating the hunt, and while they remain mysterious, they already feel like formidable opponents.

One small detail that particularly stood out was the use of the asthma inhaler. It may seem like an insignificant moment on the surface, but it feels far too deliberate to be a throwaway inclusion. Whether it becomes an important plot point later or helps explain a character’s motivations, it certainly caught my attention and suggests there is more to be revealed as the series progresses.

This issue also spends more time developing Ace and Zora as individuals. Beyond simply surviving together, we begin to understand what makes them tick and why they work as a team. Their personalities complement each other in some ways while clashing in others, creating a relationship that feels believable rather than forced. As more of their backgrounds and motivations come to light, it becomes easier to invest in both characters and the difficult situation they find themselves in. Their interactions provide some welcome emotional depth alongside the high-octane action.

The escape itself is full of twists, setbacks and moments where quick thinking makes all the difference. It isn’t simply a case of running from one firefight to the next, as Ace and Zora have to rely on planning, improvisation and a fair amount of luck to stay one step ahead of their pursuers. Every victory feels temporary, reinforcing the idea that their problems are only becoming larger and more dangerous. That growing tension pays off brilliantly with the issue’s closing reveal, which not only raises the stakes but also adds an intriguing new layer to the relationship between the two leads. It’s an effective cliffhanger that leaves plenty to think about before the next instalment.

The artwork continues to be one of the book’s biggest strengths. The variety in the robot designs helps make the futuristic world feel lived in, while the human characters all have their own distinct appearances and expressions. Every page is packed with detail, whether it’s the sprawling environments, the technology or the chaotic action scenes. Even in the busiest panels, the storytelling remains clear, allowing the reader to appreciate just how much work has gone into bringing this world to life. The colouring also deserves praise, adding atmosphere and energy to both the quieter character moments and the explosive action sequences.

Overall, Bludwire #2 builds impressively on the foundation laid by the first issue. It increases the pace, expands the world, develops its central characters and delivers another compelling mystery, all while maintaining stunning artwork throughout. With an exciting final reveal and plenty of unanswered questions, the series continues to be one that I’m looking forward to following.

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Bludwire #2

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A COMPLETE, PRACTICAL GUIDE — FROM IDEA TO FINISHED COMIC

Written by indie creator Matt Garvey (30+ self-published comics, 18 successful Kickstarters), this book walks you through the entire process:

From your first idea…

to a finished comic you can actually hold in your hands.

No fluff.

No theory for the sake of it.

Just real, proven steps that work.

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Voting is open to comics professionals, and although Matt is being modest about the vote, it is very special, as his is the only self-published book in the category of Best Comics-Related Publication.

The reason this nomination is so special to me is that the book was created to help people who have never been published before learn the comic-making craft and take those first steps towards creating a comic of their own.

I featured Matt in Custard - The Chocolate Pudding Issue (issue #6), and that was when he was producing some excellent videos for creators.

It’s fantastic to see Matt get this recognition, and if you are a comics professional, please go and vote for Matt here:

Ringo Awards

And if you are interested in making your own comics, then please get yourself a copy of Making Your First Comic:

Making Your First Comic

• RELEASE DATE: 29th July £3.99

• US RELEASE DATE: 12th August $7.99

• COVER: ANTHONY WILLIAMS

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JUDGE DREDD // THE OUBLIETTE by Ken Niemand (w) Dan Cornwell (a) Chris Blythe (c) Annie Parkhouse (l)

Dredd joins the battle between North and South and makes the kind of impact you would expect. There was an interesting aspect with his current allies. We move on!

BRINK // THE CALL OF THE VOID by Dan Abnett (w) INJ Culbard (a) Simon Bowland (l)

A dialogue-heavy issue, but it gives a lot of information. I like how this all comes out, and it really adds a new dimension to the story. The ending gives us an excellent cliffhanger!

THE FALL OF DEADWORLD // JUSTICE by Kek-W (w) Dave Kendall (a) Simon Bowland (l)

Some alliances and planning for the fightback here. I like how this is split up and has some great art and gruesome scenes.

NIGHTMARE NEW YORK // BOOK TWO by Kek-W (w) David Roach (a) Peter Doherty (c) Annie Parkhouse (l)

An interesting look at the family aspect and history. The other discoveries were interesting too, and I wonder if the Selkie will cause more trouble?

JUDGE ANDERSON // THE VOID by Liam Johnson (w) Rob Richardson (a) Rob Steen (l)

An excellent link to the main Mega City story, with Anderson doing what she does best. There is a good mix between the mindscape and the real world action too.

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Available in print from: 2000 AD webshop, book stores, Amazon, and comic book stores via Diamond

Available in digital from: 2000 AD webshop, 2000 AD app for Apple & Android

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• New manga releases from Manga Mavericks.

• Print on demand from Comix.One.

• And some 20th anniversary news from Time Bomb Comics.

Horon of the Closed Country Vol. 1 and FISHGOD Vol. 1 are available in print from Manga Mavericks

Available in print from Manga Mavericks, Horon is a complete 4-volume fantasy series, and FISHGOD is an ongoing revenge action series.

Manga Mavericks Plus Newsletter

AVAILABLE NOW: Horon of the Closed Country Vol. 1 & FISHGOD Vol. 1

This month, we have the exciting launch of the fantasy action series Horon of the Closed Country, Volume 1, and the pop-art revenge story FISHGOD, Volume 1…

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17 days ago · 1 like · Manga Mavericks

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Comix.one Announces A New POD Collaboration

Comix.one has announced a POD collaboration with HP's PSP network, launching in late August for creators in the USA, Canada, the UK, the EU, and Australia.

Comix.one today collaborates with HP’s Graphics Solutions Business and its global PSPs ‘Print Service Providers’ network to deliver print-on-demand service that empowers independent comic book creators from around the world to reach and engage fans of print comics. To be launched in late August, the fans of independent comics in multiple countries will be able to order a printed copy of a digital comic they like from the platform. The books will be printed, packaged and shipped exclusively for each reader.

HP brings a great deal of experience, reliability and scale with seamless connection to its network of Print Service Providers (PSPs) and the intuitiveness of the HP Brand Center software and HP Site Flow APIs. Through deeper integration with the platform, Comix.one is bringing the full print process flow into the platform. From pre-press proofing to sending the book orders directly to the partner PSPs, Comix.one intends to build the whole workflow directly into the dashboard.

As a part of this re-release of POD, there will be a phased rollout into multiple countries. The fans of comic books in the USA, Canada, UK, EU and Australia will soon be able to order books on demand from Comix.one. The global availability of POD will also allow the creators to reach fans in these new geographies with ease.

Comix.one provides a platform to hundreds of independent comic book creators from all over the world to sell and distribute their creator-owned work digitally to readers globally. They have recently launched a brand new crowdfunding platform, tailored entirely towards independent comic book creators and fans with built-in digital fulfillment and intend to launch a social platform to complement these features.

“As a lifelong fan of comic books and now independent ones, we love the feeling of holding a physical book in our hands.” says Saurabh. “Thanks to this collaboration with HP, we intend to bring stability, scalability, reliability and great customer experience to our creators and readers.”

For the fans of independent comics, Comix.one offers a diverse set of comics and creators spanning across genres and cultures and a convenient way to purchase and access them on the go. They want the fans to be able to find and read these comics if they missed them during the original crowdfunding run.


Comix.One

Time Bomb Comics Celebrates 20th Anniversary With New Titles

With their big anniversary, Time Bomb Comics has announced two new titles to look forward to – Amnesia Agents and The Patrolman.

September 2027 will mark the 20 th anniversary of publishing for UK indie publisher Time Bomb Comics. A huge occasion for any indie publisher, celebrations will begin in September 2026 and will include the publications of books, which will include ‘definitive editions’ of past titles, alongside new books.

The first of these, Amnesia Agents – The Collected Edition, is a full colour graphic novel by writer Jason Cobley and artist James Gray. It collects the original 2018 graphic novella along with the strips from Time Bomb’s popular Brawler anthology, as well as some brand-new material that frames and completes the story.

Amnesia Agents – The Collected Edition will be officially launched at the High Vis Comic Con taking place in King’s Heath, Birmingham on 19 September 2026, with the creators in attendance.

Blurb for Amnesia Agents:

Imagine if you could go back and change your memory of an event, or even a person. Imagine if you could open a cupboard and find everything you had ever forgotten: how to do algebra; that cute girl’s phone number; where you’d left the nuclear codes. With the help of the Amnesia Agents, it is possible.
There is a physical place that your memories go when they are forgotten - they are destined for a distant and ephemeral land called Echo. Sometimes, they are stolen by evil forces and it is the job of the Amnesia Agents to track them down.

Persephone Mills and Theseus Brown, recruited from traumatic lives that they wanted to forget, are the Amnesia Agents. Remember those names – if you can.

The celebrations continue with the launch of The Patrolman Book One, from writer Nick Twyord and artist Will Chetwynd, and the first in a 5 book crime series set in an alternate London.

The Patrolman Book One will be officially launched at the Thought Bubble Comic Convention taking place at Harrogate in November 2026, with the creators in attendance.

Blurb for The Patrolman:

In a London fallen to gang control, sealed off from the rest of the world, retired super criminal Theo Deviant is bored.
Corrupt corporations run the city, trading with the rest of the world, offending his anarchist instincts. He realises the only person able to restore London and bring down the Lord Mayor, the enigmatic figure controlling the gangs, is the Patrolman, his deceased vigilante nemesis.

It’s up to him to train a new Patrolman to take the city back.

Both titles will be available for pre-order to comics readers worldwide with upcoming Kickstarter campaigns.

Time Bomb Comics

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In the dying days of the American frontier, a young woman journeys into the unknown to claim a legacy she never asked for and may not survive.

June Buckley’s father was a monster in life. In death, he may be something worse. Summoned alongside a group of treacherous heirs, June is forced to traverse the same brutal path that built her father’s empire. But the trail reveals more than hardship, it exposes the rot in every soul travelling beside her.

And at the centre of it all is Hendido… a creature bound to her father’s past and perhaps to something far older and much more wicked. As the tension simmers and night closes in, June begins to understand: Her inheritance comes at grisly price.

Author: Dan Panosian
Artists: Dan Panosian, and David Ferracci

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This was an excellent introduction of a new story. I liked the way it set up all the various characters – including some very unlikable characters.

The air of mystery is excellent, and it makes you wonder if there is a supernatural aspect to all this.

June is an interesting character and removed from both the legend of her father as well as the Wild West aspect of the story. Her commentary has us in the same position as the reader.

Some excellent art and colouring too.

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The Dirt Beneath The Devil #1

Honourable Mention:

Speed Racer: Tales From The Road: The Rook from Mad Cave Studios - An enjoyable selection of stories that add to the Speed Racer universe.

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Zombie Zero Deluxe Hardcover Now Live On Zoop

Critical Entertainment’s most popular book, Zombie Zero, is now available in a new deluxe hardcover

For the first time ever, Critical Entertainment's most popular comic, Zombie Zero will be available as a Deluxe Hardcover Edition. Launching today on the Zoop crowdfunding platform, fans can expect a premium experience from the story they know and love.

This newly designed collected hardcover contains all seven issues of the post apocalyptic series with beautiful full color chapter cover art and gritty black and white interiors, an extended art gallery, as well as bonus script pages. The campaign also offers fans a special Autographed Signature Plate Edition signed by Writer Christopher Reda along with Limited Edition Collectible Pins and a one hour Publishing and Film Consultation with Christopher Reda, among many other rewards and add-ons.

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The Mortuus Virus, a disease that reanimates the dead, put a hold on civilization. Zombified civilians littered the streets and spread the contagion like wildfire, crumbling the populace and nearly bringing society to a state of natural chaos. That was 15 years ago. Now, with Mortuus publicly eliminated and social order reestablished, the disease's final carrier, Alexander Livingston, remains under the close supervision of microbiologist Dr. Victor Brooks. With his project kept secret as he searches for a cure, Victor tempts fate with the risk of another apocalyptic outbreak, and should the well preserved abomination escape, no one knows how long the undead can survive a fragile world.

Zombie Zero is currently optioned for Film Development over at Patriot Pictures with the producer Michael Mendelsohn.

Zombie Zero - Deluxe Hardcover Edition

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A cautious Ryder partners with a ruthless and unlikely ally in search of his missing true love. But as Ryder faces a mercenary, post-apocalyptic road and the constant threat of infection by the monster virus, he must confront his past demons to determine who he will be on this high-stakes journey.

Author: Zack Kaplan
Artist: Stefano Raffaele

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Building off nicely of the setup from the initial issue, Only The Savage Are Left #2 hammers home what kind of world is left over and the type of things people are doing not only to survive but also to gain power in their own way.

Ryder is the main character here, and we see what sort of person he is. Is he the type who would survive in a time like this? The odds don’t look good for him, as he is hesitant and unwilling to kill unless he himself is threatened.

Teaming Ryder up with someone with looser morals for his rescue mission makes this an interesting read, as there are discussions and examples for Ryder to consider—even flashing back to before, making him an interesting character in this world of monsters.

Of course this series is showing us that the monstrous aspects are not just on the outside but on the inside too, with some characters introduced who are internally the type of person that Ryder doesn’t want to be—this is excellently shown in a threatening way as a choice needs to be made.

Ryder does his best, but his methods cause more problems, which moves the story along quickly. There are some excellent action panels that add to the story being told.

The artwork is excellent, combining the normal with the monstrous at different levels—some have partial mutations, and then there are those who have fully changed. Adding in the landscaping and buildings makes this an excellent read, even as we watch the pain on Ryder’s face as he is forced to make difficult decisions.

It is a gripping story as we follow the characters and see if this road to hell is paved with good intentions.

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Only The Savage Are Left #2

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• Vault Comics has announced Corin Howell’s new series.

• New manga available from AlphaPolis.

• A compact edition of Vampire: The Masquerade.

• And an English translation of Sonic The Hedgehog: The Blade Of Courage.

Vault Announces Corin Howell’s Lilith: Blood & Burlesque

News and a preview from Vault Comics with Lilith: Blood & Burlesque out in October 2026.

Vault is thrilled to announce the return of Corin Howell’s smash-hit sapphic horror series, Lilith, with Lilith: Blood & Burlesque. The brand new comic book series will see Howell joined by colorist Warnia Sahadewa and letterer Haley Rose-Lyon to bring back the beloved characters Lilith and Penny as they continue their journey to bring Lilith home.

​“‘Blood and Burlesque’ follows Lilith shortly after the end of our first chapter,” said Howell of the new series. “Her journey home hits a snag when Penelope’s shop is in trouble, leading to sexy pinup calendars and pink princess pilates! But there’s a shadow on the horizon in the shape of old faces from Lilith’s past, including demon dogs and a massive masked monster butler. But that’s nothing compared to Lilith’s biggest hurdle: facing her growing feelings for Penelope.”

The character Lilith, created by Howell, began as a genuine social media phenomenon. Howell’s Lilith illustrations have garnered millions of likes on Howell’s social platforms, making Lilith one of the most popular original illustrated characters on social media. Then in 2024, Howell & Vault partnered to publish a Lilith comic book series that became an immediate critical darling and commercial hit with multiple sell outs and new printings.

​Lilith is an immortal who’s been banished from her home, a dimensional plane suspiciously similar to mankind’s idea of hell. She’s been posing as a model on Earth while secretly preying on humans. That is, until she runs into Penelope, a sweet bookstore owner with a tome that might hold the secret to returning Lilith to her home dimension.

​Lilith: Blood & Burlesque #1 will hit comic book store shelves everywhere this October. The debut issue will feature a phenomenal line of variant covers by some of the most beloved artists in the world, including Mirka Andolfo, Suspiria, Luana Vecchio, Chloe, Garth Graham, and more. The full synopsis for Lilith: Blood & Burlesque #1 can be ready below;

​Everyone’s favorite man-eating demon is back! Penny’s bookstore is still a mess after the monster attack. Much to Lilith’s dismay, Michael proposes a great idea: Why not make a sexy calendar to raise funds to pay for the shop repairs? Meanwhile, Lilith and Penny start making good progress on translating the book that could help Lilith get back home. But what will Penelope think if she learns Lilith’s true motive—and true nature? Seems like Lilith is bound to find out when a sinister and sexy pair from her past emerges at a burlesque show.

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AlphaPolis Debuts in North American Print with Three Fan-Favorite Isekai and Villainess Series

With Possibly the Greatest Alchemist of All Time, A Gatherer's Adventure in Isekai, and May I Ask for One Final Thing, AlphaPolis are releasing new manga!

AlphaPolis Co., Ltd. today announced its North American print debut, bringing three of its most popular manga titles, later developed into hit anime adaptations, to English-language readers in paperback. The releases will come in waves throughout the summer and fall of 2026, with Volume 1 reaching shelves on July 28, Volume 2 on August 11, and Volume 3 on October 13. The launch spans two of the genres driving North American manga demand, isekai and villainess fantasy, and marks the first time AlphaPolis is publishing its own print editions in the region. The print launch joins existing digital editions on Kindle and the Alpha Manga app, and anime adaptations of all three series streaming internationally on Crunchyroll.

The three debut series, Possibly the Greatest Alchemist of All Time, A Gatherer’s Adventure in Isekai, and May I Ask for One Final Thing?, share a common origin: each began as a web novel posted by an amateur creator to the AlphaPolis platform, rose through reader support into print and manga serialization, and went on to a television anime adaptation. Together, the three series have nearly 6 million copies in circulation in Japan.

AlphaPolis has built a distinctive publishing model that discovers new talent based on reader support and develops works into books, manga, and anime. Creators post original fiction and manga to its platform, and the most popular titles are commercialized into print books, e-books, and anime. The result is a catalog shaped by readers, and a model that has made AlphaPolis a gateway for new talent, with particular depth in genres outside the shonen-action mainstream.

“Since 2000, AlphaPolis has been a gateway for new talent, a place where a story posted by an unknown creator can find its readers, and when those readers champion it, go on to print, manga, and in some cases anime,” said AlphaPolis President and CEO, Yusuke Kajimoto.

“All three of these series came up that exact way, which is what makes AlphaPolis different, and it is the story we most want to bring to North America. Fans here have told us they don’t just want to read the series they love, they want to own them, and a well-made book is how a favorite earns its place on the shelf.”

This launch marks the beginning of AlphaPolis’s presence in North American print, with more titles from its catalog to follow. The three paperbacks are available at https://www.alpha-manga.com/printbook, and readers can also explore these titles and many more digitally at https://www.alpha-manga.com/, AlphaPolis’s official manga reader app.

Vault Announces Vampire: The Masquerade Compact Edition Graphic Novel

Including all ten Winter’s Teeth issues and all three World of Darkness: Crimson Thaw issues, Vampire: The Masquerade Compact Edition Graphic Novel is coming soon from Vault Comics.

Vault Comics’s acclaimed Vampire: The Masquerade comic series will be returning to print in an all new compact edition, available on August 31, 2026 in comic shops everywhere, and September 1, 2026 in bookstores everywhere. The comics are based on the bestselling tabletop role-playing game published by White Wolf.

The complete compact edition includes all ten issues of Vampire: The Masquerade—Winter’s Teeth together with all three issues of World of Darkness: Crimson Thaw. Vampire: The Masquerade—Winter’s Teeth was written by Tim Seeley and drawn by Dev Pramalnik, with back-up stories written by Tini and Blake Howard and drawn by Nathan Gooden. World of Darkness: Crimson Thaw was written by Tim Seeley, Jim Zub, and Danny Lore and drawn by Julius Ohta.

“The sheer creative force behind our Vampire: The Masquerade series is dazzling,” said Vault CCO and Editor-in-Chief, Adrian Wassel. “Tim Seeley (Eisner-nominated; Nightwing) captures the humanity at the center of the World of Darkness with Cecily and Ali, and it’s balanced perfectly against Tini and Blake Howard’s (Catwoman) ensemble ‘Anarch Tales’ that invite readers into a vast sandbox with ease. When Jim Zub (Conan the Barbarian) and Danny Lore (Transformers) joined to capture the rage of the Garou, it felt like we’d assembled the greatest writer’s room in history. Meanwhile, Devmalya Pramanik (Moon Knight) and Nathan Gooden (Barbaric) create a new landscape in the shadows of the Twin Cities that feels dangerously alive in a way that cannot be described, only appreciated. Having Julius Ohta (Punisher), Corin Howell (Lilith), and Stephen Molnar follow in their footsteps was the blood red cherry on top.”

“I started playing Vampire: The Masquerade in middle-school, and have loved this story world ever since,” said Vault’s CEO, Damian Wassel. “It’s an honor to get to play in our little corner of the universe. Winter’s Teeth brought together a team of all-star creators, who delivered a fun, horrifying, brilliant clever piece of Vampire: The Masquerade lore. Fans have been clamoring for it to come back to print, and we think they are going to love this affordable compact edition. We can’t wait to dig into more storytelling in this world. And we look forward to sharing plans for some much more elaborate editions soon too.”

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Sonic Manga Official English Translation Out Now

From IDW Publishing & CoroCoro Mangas is Sonic The Hedgehog: The Blade Of Courage official English translation to fans for the first time ever.

The fan-favorite SONIC THE HEDGEHOG: THE BLADE OF COURAGE manga has finally received an official English translation and there’s only one place to read it: The IDW Publishing App.

Created by Yuki Imada and featuring high speed action and fun starring the Blue Blur, the first chapter of the beloved manga is available to read now, exclusively on the IDW App. This is the one and only official English translated edition of SONIC THE HEDGEHOG: THE BLADE OF COURAGE, and an official English translation of the popular SHADOW THE HEDGEHOG manga will arrive at a later date as well.

“We are thrilled to be able to bring the official English-language release of Yuki Imada’s SONIC THE HEDGEHOG: THE BLADE OF COURAGE to readers, thanks to our partners at Sega and Shogakukan,” commented IDW Sonic Editorial. “We know fans have been looking forward to Sonic and Yuta’s quest to stop Dr. Eggman, so we are very excited to be able to offer this manga release alongside IDW’s other Sonic the Hedgehog comics!”

Download the IDW App on Google Play or the Apple App Store to read the exciting debut chapter of SONIC THE HEDGEHOG: THE BLADE OF COURAGE, plus enjoy hundreds of other digital comics featuring SONIC THE HEDGEHOG and so much more. New chapters will be released every three weeks, with chapter two arriving on August 19.

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In the dying days of the American frontier, a young woman journeys into the unknown to claim a legacy she never asked for and may not survive.

June Buckley’s father was a monster in life. In death, he may be something worse. Summoned alongside a group of treacherous heirs, June is forced to traverse the same brutal path that built her father’s empire. But the trail reveals more than hardship, it exposes the rot in every soul travelling beside her.

And at the centre of it all is Hendido… a creature bound to her father’s past and perhaps to something far older and much more wicked. As the tension simmers and night closes in, June begins to understand: Her inheritance comes at grisly price.

Author: Dan Panosian
Artists: Dan Panosian, and David Ferracci

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This is a fascinating beginning to a western with an interesting hook to it all.

Kicking off, we get a well-paced introduction to all the characters, and that theme continues well throughout the issue. There are obviously some secrets we are yet to learn about, but we are only at the start of this journey. June is our lead character and the one where we, as the reader, are going to learn about the others and what is going on.

Also looming large over the story is June’s father, who seems to have made an impact on all of the characters in this story in different ways. As June never met him, she is learning as much as we are, and that is some clever storytelling. Even so, he has made a serious impact, and his instructions that this journey be undertaken, as well as the mode of transport, add to the mystery of the story.

Looking at the mode of transport, June’s father had insisted that she ride Hendido, a horse with a strong personality! The way this is crafted into the story is excellent, and June’s connection with Hendido is very interesting—as well as the horse’s reaction to others.

Is there something darker in this tale? Something supernatural? It is a little ambiguous at this point, but the story and the art do an excellent job in keeping that side of the mystery going - The close-ups look at Hendido, making this especially unnerving, and for good reason.

The rest of the cast is well-rounded, with some nasty people that you instantly dislike as well as a mother and son who also have a connection with June’s father.

The art style was perfect for this story, with a classic western feel, along with something darker brimming underneath it all. The introduction of Hendido was perfect, showing his power and stature, as well as a dark intelligence beneath it all.

This was an excellent beginning, with a lot going on and a well-rounded cast of characters. The build-up is excellent, and it continues to set us up for an interesting story with some expressive artwork and colours - I am looking forward to seeing where the trek takes us next.

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The Dirt Beneath The Devil #1

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Four children wake up on a deserted island. After taking refuge in an abandoned boarding school, they find an automaton who, every night at midnight, gives them a mission. If they fail or refuse to take up the challenge, the consequences could be terrible. From mission to mission, the children explore their surroundings, encounter other participants, and try to discover the reasons behind their presence on this island…

Author: Lylian
Illustrator: Nicolas Grebil

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I never got into Lost, although I heard a lot about it and saw many, many memes. This seems like a much more entertaining version of that, filled with some interesting ideas, a good threat of danger (from many sides) and an overreaching mystery.

The first part of this initial volume does a good job in not only introducing the main characters but also the island itself. As far as the characters are concerned, we get a good mix of personality types and possible histories. The lack of memory for the kids makes it a more fluid idea, as they learn more about themselves and each other. There are different types of strengths and weaknesses too.

The island is generic in what you would expect, and the story does an excellent job in making it vague as to where it is. There is the flora and fauna that makes it habitable, along with dangers of wild animals and poisonous plants. The geography is mixed and again makes a good setup for various adventures across the island.

After a good buildup, the second half of the volume makes some great gains. We discover the automation of the island and what it does. It’s very mysterious, and it does an excellent job in setting short-term action along with the long-term storytelling to keep you hooked. There are other characters, too, about whom we are still to learn what they are up to and how they even got onto the island.

Crossing Lord Of The Flies with Lost and adding a bit of the Famous Five/Secret Seven, this makes a thrilling read, with some excellent hooks to get you into the characters and the deeper aspects of the story. There is some well-crafted art here, showing the cartoony style, along with the darker aspects involving the godlike automation. The colouring is perfect for the style, showing the tropical aspects along with dark scenes.

Midnight Island Vol. 1: The Automaton Awakens makes an excellent start, providing some mystery, thrilling adventures and some intriguing characters to learn about. Making this a well-done beginning to a mystery you want to learn more about.

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Midnight Island: The Automaton Awakens

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