American Carnage #1 (Vertigo)
Martin: 4/5 stars. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this title, but it’s a very relevant and compelling tale of racism in modern America, but coupled with an intriguing story and a cliffhanger ending that, while somewhat telegraphed, still has a strong impact.
Infinite Speech: Bryan Hill is pulling no punches on this timely story that has historical relevance of Black men who can pass for white putting their lives on the line for a cause.
Aquaman #42 (DC)
Infinite Speech: It’s just not a necessary book to pick up if you’re following the Drowned Earth event which is sad considering it’s HIS event and HIS title
Batman #59 (DC)
Martin: 3/5 stars. As always, the art is fabulous. And, I know King is a great writer and I give him a lot of leeway. But, the set-up to get Batman to the point that he’d punch Jim Gordon just hasn’t been here. I get that he’s a bit stressed, but that’s not enough.
Infinite Speech: Batman has finally flipped after losing Selina and Dick getting shot now Bane has him exactly where he wants him.
East of West #40 (Image)
Martin: 4/5 stars. I’ve been reading this since issue #1, so seeing 3 of the 4 Horsemen finally encounter Death’s son, and his cool, dispassionate response to them was chilling. As always, this is really an art-driven book, but the images tell the story superbly well.
Justice League #12 (DC)
Martin: 3.5/5 stars. This definitely reads like a “middle chapter catch-up” issue, with lots of background & explanatory text to make sure everyone knows what’s going on. The problem is, there’s so much, it’s a bit confusing. That said, this is a fun event so far.
Infinite Speech: This issue proves that we need Frazier Irving drawing more weird and supernatural stories!
Justice League Dark #5 (DC)
Martin: 4.5/5 stars. The opening scenes of the funeral are spectacular, both in terms of art as well as the minimalist, emotionally-driven writing. Bobo (aka Detective Chimp) is becoming the core of this book, more than even Wonder Woman.
Infinite Speech: James Tynion IV gives you a serious emotional ride during the first half as we see that Detective Chimp isn’t doing so well after the fallout from the last event.
Shadowman #9 (Valiant)
Infinite Speech: When you feel like it’s a trap then separating isn’t the best idea. Even it if it’s just to pee.
Shuri #2 (Marvel)
Infinite Speech: This series is taking unexpected twists and turns that, at least for this reader, are just fun!
Spider-Geddon #3 (Marvel)
Infinite Speech: So much betrayal going on here! This still could be more enjoyable without the minor gaps from not reading the tie-ins though.
Teen Titans #24 (DC)
Infinite Speech: Well…that was a lot of bickering for way too many pages and it wasn’t even enjoyable.
Uncanny X-Men #2 (Marvel)
Infinite Speech: Brisson has a lot going on here but it’s actually fun and a solid start to the new series.
Web of Venom: Carnage Reborn #1 (Marvel)
Infinite Speech: A recap of what Carnage has been through but it looks like his journey is going to be a long and violent one.
West Coast Avengers #4 (Marvel)
Infinite Speech: Kelly Thompson has plenty of great character moments with the over-the-top action and she just makes all the crazy fit perfectly. A definite read if you’re okay with some actual fun in your superhero comics.
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