Mini Review: Red Sonja: The Falcon Throne by Marguerite Bennett

Red Sonja: The Falcon Throne by Marguerite Bennett
Review Copy: Provided via NetGalley
Pre-Order: Amazon
Release Date: October 18th, 2016

Description From Goodreads:
Across the plains of Hyrkania, a message sweeps through the scattered peoples of the nation. Bells ring, horns blow, voices shout -- the King is dying! Red Sonja rides to save the King from his doom as the powers of Hyboria crowd around to strike when the kingdom is weakest. But a dread new power rises from within Hyrkania's own borders, bent on defending its homeland... no matter the cost, no matter what its people become. A defining chapter of the Red Sonja saga, dark, clever, vicious, and funny, as the She-Devil with a Sword must stop the rise of a brutal new regime: her own people!

My Review:
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is going to be a short review, but there isn't much to say except that I loved every page of this book.

The entire time I was reading this, I had a huge smile on my face.

"Red Sonja: The Falcon Throne" is such an excellent read. I've absolutely loved Marguerite Bennett's work with Angela for Marvel, and I've actually had her take on Red Sonja on my to-read list for some time now, but it wasn't until I saw this collection available on NetGalley that I finally took the dive and devoured Bennet's work with the character.

This is easily one of my favorite collections of the year. It's that good.

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Book Review: Wynonna Earp Volume 1: Homecoming (Wynonna Earp #1-6) by Beau Smith

Wynonna Earp Volume 1: Homecoming by Beau Smith
Review Copy: Provided via NetGalley
Expected publication: October 25th 2016
Purchase: Amazon

Description From Goodreads:
The US Marshals Black Badge division has been fighting back against supernatural threats for decades. But even the toughest werewolf, most bloodthirsty vampire, or grisliest zombie knows there s one agent to avoid at all cost: Wynonna Earp. Descended from the legendary Wyatt Earp, Wynonna is dead set on bringing the unnatural to justice! Collects issues #1 6."

My Review:
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is one of those cases where I actually got into the television show prior to the comics, and I think that actually ruined my reading experience. Why? Because in this case, the show was actually better.

When I saw that NetGalley had "Wynonna Earp Volume 1: Homecoming" available for review, I jumped at the chance to read it, having come to enjoy SyFy's adaption of the comics. And while I know that adaptions are usually different takes on their source material, I still had some hope for the comics. Unfortunately, this was kind of a bore. Which was really surprising given that there are various paranormal creature, a sassy kick-ass female lead, and a great supporting cast.

Even still, if you have the time, I'd say Homecoming is worth a read. It does have its moments - mainly between Wynonna and Valdez - they are just few and far between, sadly.

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Comic Review: Monstress -- Issues #5 & #6 by Marjorie M. Liu & Sana Takeda

Monstress #5 by Marjorie M. Liu
Review Copy: Provided via NetGalley
Purchase: Trade Paperback -- Single Issue
Publisher: Image Comics

Description From Goodreads:
Maika struggles with the monster inside.

My Review:
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The fifth issue of Monstress ends on what can only be described as a jaw-dropping cliffhanger.

What I enjoy most about this series is how even the filler episodes have something to offer readers. With most comics, you're lucky to reach multiple issues that can contain the same momentum from the series launch, and yet, Monstress seems to have no trouble doing just that with each new issue. How Liu goes about unraveling Maika's story is so well thought out, it's just impossible to dislike the story being told. And my goodness. The artwork, folks. This comic has some of - if not the best - artwork in comics right now. Each page is a masterpiece.

With only one issue left for the first volume, I'm beyond eager to see how Maika's story ends, while also seeing how Liu intends on setting up the second arc.


Monstress #6 by Marjorie M. Liu
Review Copy: Provided via NetGalley
Purchase: Trade Paperback -- Single Issue
Publisher: Image Comics

Description From Goodreads:
Maika and her friends face betrayal and death, and only the monster inside — and her growing relationship with it — can save them. MONSTRESS will return in August.

My Review: 
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

That, folks, is how you craft a unique and thrilling first volume.

From the very first issue, until the very last page of the sixth issue, I couldn't turn the pages quick enough. Liu's words sing and Takeda's artwork shines. Everything about this series is fantastic.

The sixth issue of Monstress managed to deliver an outstanding conclusion to the first arc of Maika's story, while still leaving plenty of possibilities open to explore come the second arc in August. Although I do wish we'd learned just a tiny bit more about the monster that lives inside of Maika, I'm actually glad Liu decided to take the route that she did with the story. There's still plenty of intrigue left, allowing readers to come up with their own ideas and theories.

Hands down, Monstress is a fantastic read.

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Comic Reviews: Monstress -- Issues #3 & #4 by Marjorie M. Liu & Sana Takeda

Monstress #3 by Marjorie M. Liu
Review Copy: Provided by NetGalley
Purchase: Trade Paperback -- Single Issue
Publisher: Image Comics

Description From Goodreads:
Maika must confront the deadly secrets that live inside her.

My Review:
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having now read the first three issues of Monstress, I can safely say that this is a series that only continues to get better as it progresses.

The relationship between Maika and Little Fox is a wonderful one. They're both such incredibly different characters, but they work so well off of one another. This issue is the best example of that. Even though Little Fox is understandably terrified of Maika, both characters are unable to leave one another behind. For Little Fox, as scary as Maika is, she offers a sense of security. Whereas, with Maika, although she won't admit it, she has come to care for Little Fox.

What's most exciting about this issue is that the story begins to finally expand here. We learn more about what's going on with Maika, while also getting a better look at just how deadly Maika's world is. I can't wait to see how the story all wraps up over the course of the next three issues.

Monstress #4 by Marjorie M. Liu
Review Copy: Provided by NetGalley
Purchase: Trade Paperback -- Single Issue
Publisher: Image Comics

Description From Goodreads:
Maika's world becomes even more dangerous.


My Review:
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Although this issue felt like more of a filler issue, it was still enjoyable, if only for the page that saw Master Ren and Little Fox reunite. (I don't think I've ever adored a secondary cast as much as I have the one in Monstress.)

This episode does become a bit dark, although that's to be expected as each issue has continually grown darker in tone. However, we're also finally beginning to learn more about Maika and the monster/God inside of her, and while I still have plenty of questions, the series is doing a rather great job at answering most of them with each new issue.

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Comic Review: Monstress - Issues #1 & #2 by Marjorie M. Liu & Sana Takeda

Monstress #1 by Marjorie M. Liu
Review Copy: Provided via NetGalley
Purchase: Trade Paperback -- Single Issue
Publisher: Image Comics

Description From Goodreads:
Steampunk meets Kaiju in this original fantasy epic for mature readers, as young Maika risks everything to control her psychic link with a monster of tremendous power, placing her in the center of a devastating war between human and otherworldly forces.

My Review:
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is another case of "why the hell did I wait so long to read this?" I've actually had the first issue since it was released awhile back, but I never really got around to reading it. And then I saw that the first volume - of the six issues - was available to read on Netgalley, so I went ahead and downloaded them figuring I'd finally give it a go. What I found once I finally sat down to start the series was a gem of a comic.

As I've stated before, I'm a huge fan of female led comics and comics from female creators, so Monstress has always been on my radar for that alone. But man, was reading this first issue a heck of a delight. With absolutely stunning artwork, and a wonderfully developed story that sees a bad-ass, flawed female character front and center, Monstress is easily one of my favorite comics this year. It's so easy to get lost in the world that Liu creates here, that I'm actually kind of thankful I waited until multiple issues had already been released, as I'm not sure I could have dealt with the waiting between issues.

If you haven't already, be sure to give Monstress a read. You're in for a treat, folks.

Monstress #2 by Marjorie M. Liu
Review Copy: Provided via NetGalley
Purchase: Trade Paperback -- Single Issue
Publisher: Image Comics

Description From Goodreads:
Maika fights to cross the wall. Elsewhere, the Warlord makes her move.

My Review: 
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

And issue two was just as fantastic as issue one.

This issue has everything you could possibly want. Fully developed female characters that are front and center and straight up kick-ass, to a compelling story that constantly keeps you on the edge of your seat. Liu has crafted a masterpiece here. Monstress is a one of a kind comic, one that the comic world would be smart to learn something from. (I say this as someone that loves comics.)

The world that is showcased in Monstress is a fantastical one with talking cats, animal-human hybrids, and powerful magic. Aloud? Those may seem like quite a mismatch, and yet they work wonderfully within Monstress. You're able to dispel reality while tearing through the pages because of how strong the story is.

As I've said before, if you haven't already, give this series a read. It's a must.

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Check back as I'll be posting the reviews for episodes 3&4 and 5&6 

Mini Review: Side-Kicked by Russell Brettholtz.

Book: Side-Kicked by Russell Brettholtz
Release Date: 10/27/15
Publisher: Magnetic Press
Review Copy Provided By: Net Galley
Purchase: Amazon -- Comixology

Book Description:

It should come as no surprise to learn that within the superhero "community," egos run rampant. But how does all that free-flowing narcissism impact those just outside the spotlight? Chicago finds out when five of the city's most loyal Sidekicks finally grow tired of being disrespected by both the prima donnas they work with and the citizenry they strive to protect. And it's not like the Windy City needs yet another labor upheaval... 

My Review: 

Side-Kicked is a fun little comic for readers looking for something a bit different from comics.

I'm always looking for new comics to check out and when I came across Side-Kicked, the cover immediately caught my attention, and then the description sold me.Unfortunately, Side-Kicked wasn't exactly what I hoped for. While fun, Side-Kicked is a bit scattered. It doesn't flow well, and the artwork at times is rather unappealing. Still, Side-Kicked manages to be intriguing enough that it's still somewhat enjoyable.

If you're looking for something different than the usual comics from the big two, then Side-Kicked is definitely worth a read. But I'm still undecided on whether or not I'll continue to follow the rest of the story.

Mini Reviews: Comic Book Style

I've fallen behind on my reading as of late, but I'm slowly trying to work my way through my to-read pile. To start off, in order to try and get back into the swing of things, I'm going to post a few mini reviews for some comic books that I've read recently.

 

Title: Mockingbird #1 by Chelsea Cain
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Release Date: September 2, 2015
Page Count: 33 pages
Description From Amazon: Mockingbird has always been one of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s best agents, but what happens when someone close to her is murdered? Forced to take matters into her own hands, someone is bound to pay! New York Times Bestselling Author Chelsea Cain joins the Marvel Universe to tell a story of bloody revenge! Plus, a special bonus story by superstar young adult author, Margaret Stohl (Beautiful Creatures), writer for the upcoming YA novel, Black Widow: Forever Red!

Mini Review: If you're a fan of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. on ABC, then this is a must-read comic. Not only does it introduce Red Widow, a new character in the Marvel universe that fans will get to know better in Margaret Stohl's upcoming Black Widow novel, but it also does an excellent job at telling a fun, kick-ass story that works as a one-shot. As of right now, Marvel has not announced a new Mockingbird series, but I'm hoping that if they do - and I'd like to think they will if Marvel's Most Wanted gets picked up to series on ABC - they bring back Cain to write it.

Title: Wolf #1 by Ales Kot

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: July 22nd, 2015

Page Count: 64 pages

Description From Comixology: Bestselling new star writer ALES KOT teams up with white-hot artist MATT TAYLOR and DEADLY CLASS colorist extraordinaire LEE LOUGHRIDGE for an all-new ONGOING SERIES! The crime noir thrills and characters reminiscent of True Detective meet with mythical stakes worthy of Neil Gaiman's Sandman in this original fantasy/horror/crime saga for mature readers. Antoine Wolfe, a hard-boiled paranormal detective with a death wish, has to cope with sudden responsibility for an orphaned teenage girl who might be the key to the impending apocalypse, California-style. The road to hell and back begins in a MAX-SIZED FIRST ISSUE, with fifty-eight pages of story and no ads!

Mini Review: I had high hopes for Wolf. The cover was fantastic and eye-catching and the description sounded excellent, it was hard not to be excited about Wolf. Unfortunately, that excited ended shortly after reading it. Wolf is good, don't get me wrong, but it's not great. My biggest issue was that, after sixty something pages, I still had far too many questions from a book that should have provided at least a few of them. I won't be continuing Wolf, unfortunately, but it's one still worth checking out.

Title: Phonogram: The Immaterial Girl #1 by Kieron Gillen

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: August 12th, 2015

Page Count: 32 pages

Description From Comixology: The team behind the New York Times bestselling and Eisner-nominated smash hit THE WICKED + THE DIVINE return to the acclaimed urban fantasy where they first made their names. Nearly a decade ago, Emily Aster sold half her personality for the power to rule a coven of phonomancers. I'm sure nothing could go horribly, monstrously wrong now. In a world where Music is Magic, a song can save or ruin your life. In THE IMMATERIAL GIRL, we discover what a video can do.

Mini Review: I've enjoyed Gillen's work in the past. I adore The Wicked + the Divine, and I loved his work on Young Avengers, but Phonogram: The Immaterial Girl is a lot different. Is it as fantastic as those titles? No. Is it worth your time? Yes. The artwork is excellent, the coloring is wondering, and the storytelling is great. One of Gillen's biggest strengths is his ability to create realistic characters in these extraordinary settings. It's not something that a lot of writers can pull off, and yet, he manages to do it with such ease in each and every one of his projects. I'll definitely be continuing Phonogram: The Immaterial Girl - which is a mini-series - eager to see where the story goes.

 

Title: The Beauty #1 by Jeremy Haun  

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: August 12th, 2015

Page Count: 32 pages

Description From Comixology: THE PILOT SEASON WINNER RETURNS! Modern society is obsessed with outward beauty. What if there was a way to guarantee you could become more and more beautiful every day? What if it was a sexually transmitted disease? In the world of The Beauty, physical perfection is attainable. The vast majority of the population has taken advantage of it, but Detectives Foster and Vaughn will soon discover it comes at a terrible price. Writer/artist JEREMY HAUN (Constantine, Batwoman) and co-writer JASON A. HURLEY offer up a startling reflection on the cost of looking good in this procedural science fiction tale.

Mini Review: It's hard to say that the description for The Beauty pulled me in. Honestly, if anything, it made me indifferent to the title. The idea of an STD making people beautiful? It just didn't seem like an interesting premise, and yet, this comic works. The artwork is excellent and the story itself is well-written. It's mysterious, and full of well developed characters. It's hard not to be excited to see where this series goes over time.