An Intriguing Chess Game: Civil War: War Crimes

You don't get to be the Kingpin of Crime in the Marvel Universe without some serious smarts. The only way Wilson Fisk has managed to stay at the top of the heap for so long is by staying several moves ahead of the heroes and villains who would love to take him down. Some folks may have the idea that Fisk is just a big, fat, thug, but those who make that mistake usually end up six feet under.

For any ordinary criminal, getting locked up would put a serious crimp in their plans, but not Wilson Fisk. Despite the fact that he is doing time at Riker's Island, Fisk is still clearly the Kingpin. He sits at the head of the mess hall, has a legion of bodyguards and enforcers (including THE Enforcers) and is approached by appointment only. Of course, Wilson's power does NOT stop at the prison's gates, as both Hammerhead and Iron Man will soon learn...

In Civil War: War Crimes, by Frank Tieri and Staz Johnson, Fisk and Tony "Iron Man" Stark play a literal, and figurative, chess game. The Kingpin has information about Captain America's resistance movement that Tony would love to get his hands on. Stark knows that such information isn't going to come without a price, but is it a price he is prepared to pay? Of course, Iron Man is no dummy either, so both players think they are winning this game. Who is making the smarter moves? And who is sacrificing one piece too many?

If you have been following Marvel's Civil War blockbuster, this one-shot is essential reading. Readers will discover what's been going on behind the scenes, and may be shocked to find out just who is making deals with the devil to win this war. If you haven't been reading Civil War, this is still a great self-contained story that explores the character of both Wilson Fisk and Tony Stark.

Don't be a mere pawn in the game. Make your move, and head to Four Color Fantasies to try out this 100% guaranteed Book of the Week! With a little help from Wilson Fisk, you could become a Kingpin too!

Worth joining him: Lone Ranger #3

For a long time, the once-popular western genre had all but vanished from the comic racks. Luckily for all fans of gruff, stubbly, men on horseback, comic book westerns have made quite a comeback. Marvel's westerns and DC's Jonah Hex and Loveless have all been great, but now Dynamite Entertainment has brought back the most well-known cowboy of them all: The Lone Ranger.

The Lone Ranger has appeared in just about every entertainment medium there is. He's been on radio and TV, in movies, books, viewmaster reels, and, naturally, comics. Dynamite has published some really great comics based on licensed properties like Red Sonja, Battlestar Galactica, Army of Darkness, and many others. They have already proven that they know how to find the right talent to revive an old property with the love and respect fans expect. I'm not really an old-school Lone Ranger fan myself, but I think those hardcore fans will like what they see in this book. Of course, Dynamite wouldn't put out a book that was only for nostalgia buffs, so they give us a great new take on the Ranger that will appeal to any readers who like a great story with beautiful art.

The Lone Ranger is written by Brett Matthews with art by Sergio Cariello (and art direction from John "Astonishing X-Men" Cassady). In Lone Ranger #3, they continue their version of the Ranger's origin. John Reid, masked and loaded for action, heads off to get revenge on the last of the men responsible for the deaths of his fellow rangers, including his father and brother. With villains and conspiracies all around him, John's going to need all the help he can get just to survive. Lucky for him, there's a guy named Tonto who seems willing to watch his back. Now, he'll just need to find a good horse...

If you are expecting the somewhat campy, sanitized version of the Lone Ranger from the old TV shows, you will be surprised by the extremely dark and gritty tone of this book. This story is told much more in the vein of Clint Eastwood than Roy Rogers. The Ranger's world is violent and the villains he will be coming up against are cruel and sadistic. If you are a fan of the new Jonah Hex, you definitely don't want to miss what Dynamite is doing with The Lone Ranger.

Go to Guy Gardner: Collateral Damage #1

Every office or organization has one and, somehow, they never go away, no matter how much everyone wishes they would. You know the person I'm talking about-the big jerk who does everything wrong, but always gets away with it. They make stupid, inappropriate jokes, steal office supplies, eat your carefully labelled lunch, and mouth off to everyone and anyone. Every school, business, store, or team has one (or two) of these idiots. For the Green Lantern Corps, that jerk who drives everyone crazy and nobody wants to deal with is Guy Gardner.

Amongst all of the noble and self-sacrificing heroes of the Corps, Guy stands out as a selfish bigmouth who just happens to be great with a power ring. The only reason for the Corps to keep a guy like Guy around is to have someone to do the dirty, unpleasant, nasty jobs that all those heroic and noble types don't want to touch. When you need a Green Lantern who isn't afraid to break some bones and kick someone when they're down, you need Guy Gardner. Guy always speaks his mind, regardless of how others might feel about what he has to say. Of course, you wouldn't want him anywhere near sensitive diplomatic situations of any kind. Right?

Well, maybe just this once. The Rann-Thanagar War in the DC Universe has gotten ugly, and there are some parties who would like to put an end to the killing and destruction. Earth has no involvement in the war, so it seems like maybe an Earthling would make a good neutral arbiter. Maybe an Earthling who has some degree of experience with other space-faring races, or even one who owns, say, a bar, where talks could be held. Of course, you need an arbiter who doesn't have a stake in the outcome and who won't be swayed by feelings and stuff. Someone, like Guy Gardner, who just doesn't really care very much.

Guy Gardner: Collateral Damage #1 (of 2) is a great meeting of character and creator. The legendary Howard Chaykin writes and draws this book, and he's great at writing guys who aren't the nicest dudes around. Guy's jerky dialogue is perfect, and kinda fun to read aloud. (Somewhere deep down, we all have an inner jerk just dying to get out, don't we?) Chaykin's art is clean, yet detailed, and loaded with style. He perfectly captures the little details, like Guy's sneer, and the big stuff, like marauding alien hordes.

Don't be a jerk! Give Guy Gardner: Collateral Damage a chance. Is that so much to ask? Or does Guy have to kick your worthless rear end? He'll do it, ya know.

Launching a better NewUniversal #1

Back in the dark depths of the '80s, the folks at Marvel had a pretty good idea. Why not start a whole new universe, where we can tell stories that don't fit into the regular, hero-filled Marvel Universe? The New Universe was a parallel reality, closer to our real world than the Marvel U, a whole new universe where anything could happen. The possibilities were endless! And then they came out with books starring a guy with a super-powered tool box and a bunch of other mediocre, goofy characters. The New Universe soon vanished, never to be heard from again. Until today...

Marvel is taking another shot at making the New Universe cool, and this time they have talented guys like Warren Ellis and Salvador Larroca at the helm. In NewUniversal #1, Ellis takes the basic concept of a realistic, parallel world where people gain powers, and runs off wildly in his own direction with it. The first issue introduces a bunch of interesting characters, but doesn't give away too much about where they are all headed. They are just living their normal lives, good and bad, when something weird happens. There is a white flash in the night sky, an ancient temple is uncovered, weird symbols pop up everywhere, some people die and some people seem to develop paranormal abilities.

Being a Warren Ellis book, NewUniversal is full of great characters, big sci-fi concepts, and a few angry Brits. What more could anyone ask for in a comic? (Besides a monkey pirate fighting a zombie ninja. They seem to have left that out of this issue.) Salvador Larocca's art is also a real treat. He excels at small character moments and facial expressions, but he also pulls off giant, cosmic, space stuff. His work here is a little more down to Earth than his recent X-Men art, which emphasizes that the strange goings-on are happening to "real" people. A strange flash in the sky would be the least weird thing to happen in the craziness filled Marvel Universe, but here it seems unique and ominous.

I'm not really sure what might happen next in NewUniversal, and that is a good thing. There is a whole new world of possibilities opened up here and, with Ellis and Larocca in charge, it will be fun finding out what happens next. As long as they keep those Kickers, Inc guys far away from this guaranteed Book of the Week. They were sooo lame.

No Conspiracy Engima Cipher #1

If you believe the conspiracy theorists of the world, you probably think the government is watching you at this very moment. Not the government guys we all see fooling around on CNN, wasting taxpayer money on whatever it is they do all day, but the dark-suited guys behind the scenes. The guys who have Hitler's brain in a jar, keep all the crashed UFOs to themselves, and could have anyone "rubbed out" with one cryptic command. The guys who have the REAL power. Of course, such secret government agencies are pure fantasy, right? Or maybe that's just what they want us to think...

Enigma Cipher #1, from Boom! Studios, drops readers right into the deep end of this mysterious world. A college professor stumbles across a coded Nazi message from World War II. He reports it to the state department, and then shares his discovery with a class. Decoding a message like this should be no big deal, right? It's surely just some dusty old piece of history, a curiousity for students to play around with. There's no way it could lead to a whole lot of people dying, or put a star student on the run from a monolithic organization out to silence her for good. Right? Or maybe that's just what I want you to think...

Written by Andrew Cosby and Michael Alan Nelson, Enigma Cipher could easily be the next blockbuster thriller in the "Bourne Identity" vein. It has a strong and believable cast of characters, even the ones who quickly find themselves victims of the sweeping conspiracy. The story is loaded with twists and turns that keep readers just as unsure about what's happening, or who can be trusted, as Casey (the computer genius heroine who tries to break the enigmatic code).

Greg Scott's art is perfect for this story. His use of heavy shadows and dark tones keeps events shrouded in mystery. There could be, and often are, enemies lurking behind every corner.

This review may leave you with many questions, but there's only one way to find the answers. You DO want to know the answers, don't you? I'm sure it's perfectly safe for you to read Enigma Cipher #1. There's no way you could learn too much by reading this guaranteed Book of the Week. Or maybe that's just what I want you to think...

Giving girls a reason to read comics: White Tiger #1

Who can resist a shapely woman who can kick your butt without breaking a sweat? Apparently, too many people. No one can dispute the dearth of women in comics. Not enough women are working in the industry, not enough women star in the books, and not enough women are reading the material. Now's our chance to celebrate all three with the butt-kicking launch of Marvel's White Tiger.

Scripted by the married team of Tamora Pierce and Timothy Liebe, White Tiger captures the audience with an intriguing story: the mythical organization, the Chaeyi, might be real, the is-he-or-isn't-he Daredevil pops in, and our hero isn't sure if she wants all this. Angela Del Toro, the niece of the original '70s kung fu hero White Tiger, received Hector Ayala's amulets just before being fired from her FBI position investigating Matt Murdock as Daredevil. Leave it to Brian Michael Bendis to introduce a character so compelling she deserves her own limited series, but Del Toro really comes to life in the able hands of Pierce, best known for her strong female leads in a series of young adult fantasy novels.

Despite the history behind White Tiger, the authors quickly fill in her backstory without being bogged down in exposition. And together we stumble through Angela's personal dilemma about using the amulets and whether or not that means she has to wear a costume. In the first of six issues, the Black Widow shows up to mentor Angela and her first stop is helping choose the costume. Fanboys might be disappointed by the decided lack of flesh showing, but the skintight outfit draws the eye to every sinuous muscle.

The artwork by Phil Briones with inks by Don Hillsman and colors by Chris Sotomayor is realistic with gritty, dark New York nights and sunny, yet grimy streets during the day. The world of Angela Del Toro is captivating through the eyes of this creative team and her emotional life is revealed with every expression.

If you are a fan of Collen Wing and Misty Knight AKA Heroes for Hire (and if not, why not?), White Tiger is a must read. If you want to see more female action heroes, White Tiger is a must read. If you want your girlfriend to share your super hero obsession, White Tiger is a must read. Did you need any other reason to check this out? Oh, wait, if you hurry, it comes with Four Color Fantasies' money-back guarantee. Buy it today and make this Tiger purr.

Samurai: Heaven and Earth (Vol. 2, #1)

In comic book circles, there is some debate about which is the greatest breed of legendary warriors: ninjas or samurai. For my money, samurai have the ninja beat by a mile. Sure, ninja can do all that hopping around, stealthy stuff. They can poison your food or sneak up behind you and stab you with their fancy ninja blades, but is that really any way for a deadly martial artist to act? Would you hang out with someone who did that to you?

Samurai, on the other hand, are noble warriors who will look you in the eye. A samurai will tell you how he's going to kill you, give you the first shot, and still take you down before you know what happened. Now THAT'S impressive! Asukai Shiro, the star of Dark Horse's Samurai: Heaven and Earth (Vol. 2, #1) by Ron Marz and Luke Ross, is a prime example of the honorable samurai warrior. He fights for a just cause, he gives his opponents fair warning before they die at his hand, and he stays cool and calm even in the face of insurmountable odds. I'd like to see a ninja top that!

Shiro is on a quest to rescue his kidnapped love Lady Yoshiko. He swears to cross Heaven and Earth to be reunited with her, and is well on his way to keeping that vow. Having crossed all of Asia and most of Europe on Yoshiko's trail, Shiro finds himself in Spain as this volume of the series opens. Being a stranger in a strange land puts him at a bit of a disadvantage, so Shiro has to recruit some unwilling local to help him pick up his lost love's trail. Of course, some people just don't believe Shiro when he says they will help him or die. As you can probably imagine, some of those skeptics end up on the wrong end of Shiro's sword. (That's the sharp end, if you couldn't guess.)

This book has a great, epic story with beautiful, realistic art. Both Marz and Ross have done their research, as this historical tale looks and feels very authentic. If you love Lone Wolf and Cub, Frank Miller's Ronin, or even those Wolverine issues where he goes to Japan, you should check out Samurai: Heaven and Earth #1. This book has tragic romance, historical drama, plenty of action, and a cool samurai hero. If that isn't enough to entice you, it looks like Shiro may be running afoul of some pirates soon. Nobody can resist pirates. Pirates are cooler than ninjas, too.

Don't skulk in the shadows! Boldly make your way to Four Color Fantasies, where you can do the honorable thing and try out this guaranteed Book of the Week.

New Beloved Brit Stuns: Wisdom #1

You know, thanks to Walt Disney and Tinkerbell, everyone thinks fairies are adorable little winged darlings, flitting about the English countryside. However, if you read your folklore, fairies are usually portrayed as manipulative, angry, hateful little buggers. Given half a chance, they'll steal your crops and kidnap your babies. Bloody fairies.

In the England of the marvel Universe, fairies really exist in the Otherworld. The Otherworld is essentially the collective unconcious of the English people. It exists alongside the "real" world and is teeming with fairies, monsters, knights, kings, swords in stones, and all that other great stuff from your English Lit class. Unfortunately, sometimes the residents of the Otherworld collide with modern day England, and that makes trouble. When a bunch of wild fairies start waging war on humans, it's time to call in Pete Wisdom.

Wisdom is the head of MI-13, a secret government team that deals with "weird happenings." Pete's team is, honestly, a pretty weird bunch too. Wisdom himself is a mutant (he was in the best ever Excalibur run, back when Warren Ellis wrote it), and he leads a group with a rogue fairy, a hippy Skrull, Captain Midlands, and a woman who is "clairsentient" but NOT a telepath. A strange team to deal with strange stuff.

Wisdom is a Marvel Max limited series written by Paul Cornell, with art by Trevor Hairsine. Cornell has long been a favorite writer of mine. He has written some excellent Doctor Who novels, an acclaimed episode of the new Doctor Who TV series, some original sci-fi novels, and some great comics for 2000 AD. This is his first work for American comics, and I have a feeling Paul Cornell will become a beloved import like fellow Brits Garth Ennis and Warren Ellis. In the first issue alone, Wisdom manages to be original, funny, and scary, packed with great moments and clever ideas. Trevor Hairsine, another former 2000 AD artist, is no slouch either. His detailed, dark, and gorgeous art is a perfect fit for the book.

With great art and a great story, there is no excuse for you to miss out on Wisdom #1. If you enjoy the modern take on folklore in Fables, you should definitely give Wisdom a try. Of course, the fairies might try to steal your copy, so be careful! Bloody fairies.

Don't mess with Aunt May: Sensational Spider-Man #31

Spider-Man fans who have been around long enough remember how useless Pete's beloved Aunt May used to be. She doddered about the house making wheat cakes for her nephew, totally overlooking the many, many clues that Pete was really Spider-Man. Spidey couldn't reveal his identity because Aunt May's feeble heart would give out with the shock. He was always running from battles because Aunt May needed her medicine, being only minutes away from death. May was so clueless that she thought Spidey was a terrible menace, but she was going to marry "that sweet Doctor Octavius" so he could get his tentacles on her nuclear power plant. (If you don't know the story behind that one, just count yourself lucky and never think of it again.)

However, May Parker has had a bit of a renaissance period over the last decade or so. Gone is the cliched, sickly, dim-witted old lady of the past. Today's Aunt May is a strong, smart, no-nonsense, fount of wisdom and support for Peter and Mary Jane. Nowhere is that transformation more evident than in Sensational Spider-Man #31 by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Angel Medina. Part of the fallout from Spidey's Civil War unmasking, this issue focuses on two of the women in Peter's life, Liz Allan and Aunt May.

Now that all the villains Spidey has pounded over the years know his identity, they figure they can get a little payback by attacking those close to him. One bunch of second-rate villains uses Liz and her son to lure Peter into a trap, while the Chameleon goes after the weakest link in Peter's life-Aunt May. I don't want to give anything away here, but lets just say Chameleon made a serious miscalculation. May is not the helpless victim he believed her to be, and I bet he won't ever look at a bakesale the same way again.

It is great that Marvel hasn't shied away from dealing with the logical consequences of Spider-Man's identity being public knowledge. Aguirre-Sacasa has used this controversial Civil War plot point to tell some excellent Spidey stories that could never have been told before. As a Spidey fan for almost 30 years, it's great to have stories with a truly new take on the character. If you've been reading Civil War, but missing out on the great stories spinning out from those events, you're missing the best part of the year's biggest superhero event.

Pick up Sensational Spider-Man #31, pull up a comfy chair and a plate of homemade oatmeal cookies, and enjoy! It's guaranteed at Four Color Fantasies all week. Try it or we'll reveal your true identity!

Unexpectedly Seasonal: Tales of the Unexpected #1

It's the middle of October and Halloween is sneaking up on us like the skulking, terrifying, bad boy of a holiday it is. You know what it means when Halloween is just around the corner? (Aside from the increased likelihood of egging and TP-ing, that is.) It means spooky comics, of course! There is no better way to spend a creepy October evening than curled up in a comfy chair with an eerie comic or two.

DC is here to help keep you frightened with their October debuting Tales of the Unexpected limited series. This book is an anthology title, headlined by The Spectre and backed up by Dr. 13. The Spectre tale, by David Lapham and Eric Battle, is the star of the show and gets the lion's share of the page count. The story stars dead Detective Crispus Allen, the current Spectre, observing and uncovering some seriously creepy goings-on in a run-down slumland building called the Granville Towers. The tenants are weird, the landlord is dead, and something is going on that even a ghostly detective can't figure out.

The Dr. 13 backup story is an interesting take on the "investigator of the unknown" formula. Terry Thirteen is a paranormal investigator, but he is also the ultimate sceptic. He doesn't believe in ghosts, monsters, aliens, or any other unexplained phenomenon. He seems compelled to explore these subjects because he is desperate to prove that they simply don't exist. The story is written by Brian Azzarello, with art by Cliff Chiang. In a very small number of pages, this story manages to incorporate cavemen, dinosaurs, yeti, cannibalism, freaky Freudian dreams, and a vampire. You can't ask for much more out of your entertainment dollar!

Both stories are well-told and well-drawn. The subject matter is perfect for the season, and the first issue is topped off with an excellent cover from Mike "Hellboy" Mignola. Pick up this comic, dig in to that bag of cheap candy you bought for the trick-or-treaters, and have yourself an early Halloween party.

No need to be scared, because Tales of the Unexpected #1 is Four Color Fantasies guaranteed Book of the Week!

Escape into the CRIMINAL

People are fascinated by the darker corners of the world, those places that we all know should really be avoided at any cost. Even those of us who are smart, or lucky, enough to stay away from dirty alleys that smell like urine are tempted to peek inside once in awhile. That urge probably explains the recent resurgence of dark and gritty storytelling in comics (and other media) lately.

The newest down and dirty crime comic on the block is Criminal, from Marvel's creator-owned Icon imprint. Written by Ed Brubaker and drawn by Sean Phillips, this book comes with a pretty good pedigree for a dark crime comic. The story lives up to Brubaker's previous work, with believable, well-rounded characters, cracking dialogue, and a convoluted plot. Phillip's art is a little more realistic than his recent stint on Marvel Zombies, but it still has that same rough edge that makes it a perfect fit for a story like Criminal.

Our protagonist is Leo Patterson, the son of one of the greatest pickpockets ever to work a city. Leo's dad died in prison, and Leo is determined not to make the same mistakes his father did. Not that he decides to actually earn an honest living; he just works really hard not to get caught. Leo operates by a pretty strict set of rules. The rules have kept Leo out of prison so far, but he finds himself tempted to break the rules to make one huge score that could take care of all his problems and responsibilities. Of course, there is just no way that things are going to go as smoothly as Leo would like.

If you want to sneak down that stinky alley and experience life on the wrong side of the tracks, you can't go wrong by doing it from the relative safety of your favorite comfy chair. Stop by Four Color Fantasies and pick up this guaranteed Book of the Week. But no five-finger discount! Leo is a bad, bad example, kids!

No Comedy Magician: Doctor Strange: The Oath #1

There are quite a few folks in the super-community who call themselves "Doctor" something, but most of them aren't really doctors. Doctor Doom, for example, is certainly not the kind of doctor I would want to perform a major surgery on myself or a loved one. Doctor Stephen Strange (Sorceror Supreme, Master of the Mystic Arts), however, is an honest-to-goodness HMO-charging, medication-prescribing doctor.

The good Doctor's medical training comes to the fore once again in Doctor Strange: The Oath by Brian K. (Y the Last Man) Vaughan and Marcos Martin. When Doc's loyal and true manservant Wong comes down with a fatal medical condition, he swears to live up to his Hippocratic Oath and find a way to save Wong. Lucky for Wong, Doctor Strange has considerably more resources than the average General Practitioner. Of course, nothing is easy in the world of super hero comics and finding a cure is not going to be a walk in the park, even for the Sorceror Supreme.

In recent years, the trend in the Marvel Universe seems to be to treat Doctor Strange as a bit of a joke. Admittedly, someone as pompous as Stephen Strange is an easy target for a laugh. Vaughan seems set to return Strange to an appropriate place of prominence in the Marvel U. He may be a bit on the stuffy and arrogant side, but he IS the most powerful magician in the world and the sole protector of the entire dimension in which the Marvel heroes reside. Nothing to sneeze at, even if he does dress funny.

There is certainly a lighthearted side to this series. Any comic that opens with Iron Fist and Arana sitting in the Night Nurse's waiting room, tending their wounds and listening to elevator music, is not without a funny bone. Doctor Strange, for all his faults, is portrayed as a powerful yet compassionate man. He may be a bit oblivious to the mundane world around him, but he does mean well and he is willing to risk his life for the benefit of others.

With a compelling and clever story by Vaughan and great art by Martin, this limited series is too good to miss. Pay a visit to the Doctor today, and try Doctor Strange: The Oath #1, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week.

With all the Civil War hullabaloo going on in the Marvel Universe, none of the heroes seem to be thinking too much about what the old rogues gallery might be up to. Seriously, if the Avengers and the Fantastic Four are all busy beating the stuffing out of each other, who's keeping an eye on the bad guys? OK, Steve (Captain America) Rogers has been trying, but in Captain America #22, it's clear that he has way too much on his to-do list to stay on top of everything.

Even if you haven't been keeping tabs on all the Civil War madness (which you really should be, cause it's an awesome story), you can easily jump in with this first part of the "Drums of War" storyline. Sharon Carter, AKA Agent 13, AKA Cap's main squeeze, tries to warn her S.H.I.E.L.D. bosses that Cap is not going to take kindly to their attempts to take away the freedoms of heroic folks who've risked their lives to protect others. S.H.I.E.L.D.'s current leader, Maria Hill, still acts all surprised when Cap refuses to play ball and kicks S.H.I.E.L.D. agent butt all over the map.

Agent 13 suddenly finds herself with some tough choices to make between her personal feelings and her duty. Should she help her boss (who, for the record, is a big jerk) capture Captain America, the leader of the anti-registration resistance? Or should she help Steve stay one step ahead of his fascist former friends at S.H.I.E.L.D.? Of course, it might be easier for Sharon to make these choices if her psychologist didn't seem to have a rather fishy agenda of his own. Remember those unsupervised villains I mentioned earlier...?

Captain America #22 is written by Ed Brubaker, with art from Mike Perkins and Frank D'Armata. Brubaker has already proven himself as a great writer AND someone who really gets what Captain America is all about. Afterall, he found a cool way to bring back Bucky, which no one else ever thought possible. This issue does an amazing job of tying into the events of Civil War, while not being dependent on them. Despite all the big events, this is a very character-driven story. The art from Perkins and D'Armata is also excellent. It has loads of detail, dynamic action, and a dark, painted look that really adds gravity to these events.

If you are reading Civil War, you definitely can't miss Captain America #22. If you aren't reading Civil War, you should still support America's Super-Soldier and read Captain America #22. If you don't support Cap, Tony "Iron Man" Stark wins, and Tony is a bigger jerk than Maria Hill. Stupid Iron Jerk.

Roughest, Toughest, Manliest: Goon:Noir #1

Hey, you! Yeah, YOU, you no-account, comic book readin', mouth breathin' weirdo! What do you know about The Goon? You better know that The Goon is the roughest, toughest, manliest comic ever to see print from Dark Horse Comics. You better also know that The Goon is more fun than a hootenanny with fireworks, ice cream, and blueberry pie. And you better have a real good reason if you ain't been readin' The Goon on a regular basis.

The monthly comic, written and drawn by the mighty talented Eric Powell, tells the funny, violent, and occasionally tragic tales of the Goon. With a childhood that made Peter Parker's early life look like smooth sailing, the Goon is a big, tough, scarred thug who runs the rackets of his hometown with an iron fist. Goon is no heartless criminal though. He always keeps an eye out for the little guy, and he keeps the common folk safe from the super-natural horrors that tend to crawl the city streets. You know, slack-jawed zombies, tentacled monstrosities from the bottom of the sea, werewolves, that kinda thing. Goon doesn't do it all alone, of course. He gets a lot of help from his foul-mouthed little buddy Franky.

Maybe you've been worried that you couldn't just jump in and read any old issue of The Goon. That would really be a mistake on your part, cause almost every issue is self-contained. However, if you have been thinkin' that way, now is your chance to try The Goon at no personal risk to yourself. Apparently, creator Eric Powell needed some time to work on his upcoming Goon epic, Chinatown, so he is letting his former publisher (and all-around obnoxious guy) Dwight T. Albatross put together some black and white "jam" issues under the title Goon: Noir.

This three issue series was going to feature Goon stories by comedy giants like Jimmy "JJ" Walker and Carrot Top, but Albatross couldn't get them. He had to settle for great comic book creators instead. The first issue of Goon: Noir has three stories by creators taking their first turn on the Goon's turf. Guys like Mike Ploog, Steve Niles, Ryan Sook, and many more. There's also part one of a three part story drawn by Powell himself, just in case people missed him too much. Each of these creators takes a slightly different approach to the Goon's crazy world and each stand-alone story is pretty darn entertaining.

If you ain't never been brave enough to try out The Goon, pick up Goon: Noir #1 and see if you're man (or woman) enough to hang with the Goon and Franky. You'll have a good time if you do, and you might get your kneecaps all busted up if you don't. Plus, this book is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week, and you don't get many guarantees in this world.

Movie Thrills Meet Comics: Rush City #2

Rush may sound like the name of an energy drink or a protein bar, but it's also the name of DC's newest hero on wheels. Rush is the star of Rush City and, as his name suggests, he tends to move fast.

As any fan knows, lots of movies are being based on comics these days. It seems only fair that a comic or two may take some cues from the big movie guys in return. Rush City is a noir-ish book loaded with hot dames, a tough guy hero, and loads of car chasing with flashy cars. It has the non-stop action feel of movies like the Transporter series or The Italian Job.

Rush is a guy with a mysterious past who can find anyone who's lost, whether they want to be found or not. If the price is right, that is. In the second issue of the series, Rush finds himself tracking down a nerdy little French guy. Not so much for the money, but because the woman claiming to be the French guy's sister is incredibly hot. Of course, it seems a little odd that the stipulations of the job demand the missing brother be delivered alive, alert, and awake. Not to mention that Rush is far from the only person hunting down this apparently inconsequential movie geek.

Rush City is written by Chuck Dixon with art by Timothy Green II. The story and the art both keep things moving at a break-neck pace. Reading this book really feels like watching a big-budget action film. Dixon's dialogue is all very terse yet memorable, with our hero getting in an occasional action guy one-liner. The car chases and fist fights all convey the constant movement of a summer blockbuster. The only thing missing to complete the experience is a butt-kicking soundtrack. Hopefully, you can provide your own.

If you like action, cars, sexy women, and mysterious, brooding heroes, you should love Rush City. If you don't like those things, go watch some Matlock reruns. Either way, you should pick up Rush City #2 while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Just don't blame me if you break any traffic laws on the way to the shop!

Forget about science. If you've read enough comics, or watched enough TV, you know that space is a crazy place. If we haven't been misled (and I'm sure we haven't), space is full of weird energies, horrific monsters, probing aliens, and gorgeous but naive space babes. I'm sure NASA tries to tell us otherwise just so they can keep all the fun for themselves. (Though if they showed us more evidence of space babes, I bet NASA could get all the funding they need...)

Anyway, all this space weirdness is why Mystery in Space is the perfect title for DC's new anthology title. Mysteries and space are a can't-miss combination! Jim Starlin is the perfect creator to bring us all the Space Mystery we can handle, too. Starlin is most well-known for his various series set in the cosmic fringes of the Marvel Universe. He has been responsible for pretty much anything with Infinity in the title and he has been behind the most acclaimed stories featuring Captain Marvel and Adam Warlock. It would take all day to list all of Starlin's sci-fi work, so trust me, he knows space!

Mystery in Space is a little bit unusual in that it seems to be an anthology title. The first issue features two stories, both starring resurrected protagonists. First up is Captain Comet. I was unfamiliar with the Captain before reading this issue, but I learned everything I needed to know about the man and his history to enjoy the story. Starlin is joined by artist Shane Davis for the Comet tale, and the artist is a perfect fit for the story. Davis has designed some excellent and unusual looking aliens, and he does a great job with space-tech as well. He also draws a very believable talking bulldog, which is a selling point in and of itself.

The second story in this issue features another character who was unknown to me, The Weird. Again, I learned everything I needed to know about the character in this issue. Starlin handles the art himself for this story, which should be a relief for all the fans who most appreciate Mr. Starlin's work as a writer/artist combo. The two stories are connected, but it remains to be seen whether these characters will continue to influence each other's crazy, mysterious lives. I have a feelng that they will.

If you like your superheroes to have a sci-fi edge, you don't want to miss Mystery in Space. Try it out now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week! And don't forget to keep an eye peeled for those space babes!

The Benefit of Knowing Things: X-Factor #10

It would be really sweet to go through life knowing things like X-Factor's Layla Miller. Ever find yourself wondering if you should take a new job, ask for a date, or make a stock investment? I'm sure you have, and there have probably been a few times you really had to kick yourself over a move you did or didn't make. Layla never has to sweat over life's big decisions because she, well, she knows things. That is one handy-dandy mutant power.

One thing I DO know is that you should be checking out Marvel's X-Factor. Writer Peter David has an unfortunate history of writing great books, loved by both readers and reviewers, that just aren't read by enough people. If you are missing X-Factor, you are missing a seriously excellent series. Every issue is packed with humor, noir atmospere, mysteries, suspense, witty dialogue, genuine character development, and mutants. Everybody loves mutants! (No Wolverine, though. We get enough of that guy everywhere else.)

The current X-Factor is a bunch of mutants, and ex-mutants, who come together as a sort of detective agency/bodyguard service. They are champions of the downtrodden and the underdogs. They live on the bad side of town, and they don't have a fancy jet or X- mobile. X-Factor are the "regular guys and dames" of the mutant world. This group is made up of all the Marvel mutants who just don't fit in anywhere else, such as: Jamie "Multiple Man" Madrox, Theresa "Siryn" Rourke, Rahne "Wolfsbane" Sinclair, and Guido "Strong Guy" Carosella. And Layla Miller. She knows things.

In X-Factor #10, our heroes continue to lock horns with the mysterious and enigmatic Singularity Investigations. They learn that working for S.I. is NOT worth the benefits package. Jamie Madrox finds out the hard way why a Multiple Man shouldn't drink. Quicksilver continues to act like a jerk (big surprise there). And the team takes a stand on the Super-Human Registration Act. All this, plus an ending that will make you do a serious double-take. I mean it, next issue can't come quick enough!

You and I may not know things like Layla Miller, but now you know to pick up a copy of X-Factor #10. I know you'll be glad you did. I also know that, right now, this book is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Get it while you can!

Action-packed Adventure: Heroes for Hire #1

You know, it's all well and good for heroes to fight evil, save the world, and defeat nefarious villains, but why can't they make a little cash for their trouble? Sure, Spider-Man had to learn that whole "power and responsibility" lesson the hard way, but that's just because he was being kind of a jerk at the time. Heroes are out there risking serious injury, messing up their social lives, and spending tons of cash on fancy rocket-packs and whatnot. They deserve a paycheck for this crazy lifestyle! Altruism alone just doesn't pay the bills.

That's why the concept behind Heroes for Hire makes perfect sense! The first Heroes for Hire were Luke Cage and Iron Fist, back in their '70s heyday. The title has popped up once or twice at Marvel since then, but this new series stands completely on its own. Even though this particular incarnation of the title is really a sequel to the recent (and awesome!) Daughters of the Dragon mini-series, no prior reading is needed to jump right in and join in the fun!

This new, ongoing series is written by Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti, with art by Billy Tucci and Tom Plamer. Gray and Palmiotti have teamed up on many great comics, including Jonah Hex, Punisher, and Daughters of the Dragon. In Heroes the pair have put together a fun, action-packed adventure with an eclectic cast of characters, including some B-listers who never seem to get the attention they deserve. They've turned Misty Knight and Colleen Wing into wonderful, complex, leading ladies, and given them a great cast of supporting characters like Shang-Chi, Black Cat, Palladin, and Orka. Anyone who can make Humbug a fun and interesting character must be a great writer!

Of course, artist Billy Tucci is most know for his creator-owned character Shi. When you hire a guy who is known for drawing gorgeous women, it would be a shame not to give him plenty of material to work with! Gray and Palmiotti put their artist to good use in this book. Not only do they have him drawing the previously mentioned Misty, Colleen, and Black Cat, but they also threw a sexy-but-dangerous new Taratula into the mix. (Trust me, this character is nothing like the guy with the bandana and the pointy shoes that Spider-Man used to fight.) Tucci rises to the challenge with action-packed art full of both eye-candy and intense kung-fu kicking action. Now that's entertainment. (Don't feel left out if you like your eye-candy to be a little more beefy! Shang-Chi is shirtless more often than Captain Kirk.)

Not only is this first issue a fun start to a new series, it is also a "can't miss" Civil War spin-off. Misty and company are hired by Iron Man as government agents to help track down costumed villains who are not complying with the Superhero Registration Act. The Heroes for Hire are a little uneasy about getting involved in the Civil War conflict, but those goverment salaries with benefits sure do look good...

Help support struggling heroes, and give Heroes for Hire #1 a try. It's guaranteed at Four Color Fantasies this week, so you can't lose. Besides, if you hurt Misty's feelings, Colleen may go all Kill Bill on you.

Out-Preachering Preacher: Ennis delivers on The Boys

The heroes of the Marvel Universe may think they have it tough with the whole Civil War thing going on, but it could be MUCH worse. Sure, they may get beat up by Iron Man if they refuse to register, or maybe even locked up by SHIELD, but at least they don't have to worry about having a huge, surly Englishman kick their face in and then stand on their testicles. Captain America is luckier than he thinks, because he doesn't have to deal with The Boys.

The Boys are a taskforce of seriously bad dudes (and one female dude) who police all the out-of-control super-powered, cape-wearing types in the world. Led by the previously mentioned surly Englishman, Mr. Butcher, these people HATE the capes. These "boys" are likely to stomp you into a bloody paste first and ask questions later.

I've had high expectations for The Boys ever since the title was first announced, because this book from DC's Wildstorm imprint is the latest creator-owned title from writer Garth Ennis (Preacher, The Punisher, Bloody Mary, War Stories, and many more). This book delivers everything his fans love about a Garth Ennis tale: wildly creative violence, the darkest of dark humor, incredibly imaginative swearing, biting social satire, deep (and deeply disturbed) characters, and some more violence. In fact, Ennis has claimed that this book will "out preacher Preacher." If you read Preacher (And if you haven't, what are you waiting for?), you know that is a serious statement.

Ennis' partner in violent crime for this series is Darick Robertson, who also collaborated with him on The Punisher and Fury. Robertson's dark, realistic art is perfect for this title. His characters are amazingly expressive. One look into team leader Billy Butcher's eyes, with his sly knowing smile, and you'll know that you would run if you saw this guy coming. We don't meet the whole cast of characters in the first issue, but another guy we do meet is the tragic Wee Hughie. Hughie is drawn by Robertson to look an awful lot like actor Simon Pegg (Shaun of the Dead), which earns the artist points in my book.

The Boys is suggested for Mature Readers, and this warning should be taken seriously. If you are too young, or at all easily offended, this book will not be for you. However; if you think you're hard enough to handle a comic that pulls no punches, muscle up to the bar and spend some time with The Boys. I'm pretty sure Butcher would make even Iron Man cry.

Mad Science Debated: The Creeper #1

The public debate about the ethics of science has gone on since before Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein. Just because we CAN do something, does that mean we SHOULD? I'm sure not the one to answer that question in the real world, but I can tell you that in comic book land, science is nothing but trouble.

Take the case of Jack Ryder in DC's new Creeper limited series. Jack is your average arrogant, opinionated, obnoxious and obstreperous TV host. He loves nothing more than to get a guest on his show so he can belittle and berate them for the amusement of his audience. Jack is just enough of a journalist that he wants to get the scoop on the miraculous new Artificial Nanocell Technology invented by Dr. Vincent Yatz (also the guy who made that dice-rolling game?).

After poking around in the good Doctor's lab (always a mistake), Jack finds himself on the wrong end of this miracle healing technology. And on the wrong end of some gun-wielding criminals who are also mad science enthusiasts. Next thing you know, Jack is a good deal "Creepier," and comic book science has claimed another victim. What could be worse than a super-powered talk show host? Darn that science!

The Creeper #1 is written by veteran horror comics writer Steve Niles with art by the mono-named Justiniano. Niles horror background makes him a good fit for this story, since The Creeper is certainly a bit darker and, well, more creepy, than your average super-hero. The inclusion of the scientific debate issue also helps lend a little real world relevance to the story, and gives readers something to think about. Justiniano's art is well-matched for this character. He does a great job capturing The Creeper's weirdness through his bizarre body language and his crazy, cheshire cat smile.


So read The Creeper, but stay away from strange men in lab coats, especially if they're carrying giant hypodermic needles. Science is just more trouble than it's worth. For every guy who has an amazing origin, ten more get hideous, disfiguring mutations. Plus, this is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. You don't get any guarantees with mad science.

Busiek's twist on super-hero genre: Astro City Special (The Eagle and the Mountain)

We've all seen the pattern over and over in super-hero comics: the villain defeats the hero, the hero comes back from the jaws of defeat, the villain starts scheming his next great masterplan to destroy his nemesis. Whether it is Superman and Luthor, Batman and the Joker, or Spider-Man and the Green Goblin, the result is always a never-ending struggle that neither hero nor villain can win. Seems kind of pointless, doesn't it?

In the latest Astro City Special (The Eagle and the Mountain) from Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson (with a snazzy Alex Ross cover), Samaritan and his arch-nemesis, the immortal Infidel, have worked out a pretty unique solution to this eternal problem. They quit trying. Having realized that they just can't get rid of each other, can't win with any finality, they end the cycle of pointless rematches by calling a truce. Infidel minds his own business, living in extravagant luxury, but not enslaving the human race or conquering the world. Samaritan continues to fight the good fight, defending humanity, but leaving Infidel to his own devices.

Once a year these two arch-enemies meet for a civilized meal and discussion of their respective philosophies. Of course, each is constantly gauging the other for signs of weakness, signs that maybe they could finally get the edge needed to win once and for all. The fight goes on, but without all the pointless property damage and violence. Not a bad way to deal with a stalemate, really.

Kurt Busiek is a great writer of "traditional" super-hero stories, but he can always be relied upon to find a slightly different way of looking at the world of heroes and villains. Would a super-genius villain waste his time and energy with endless rematches, just asking for another beat down from the hero? Probably not, which is what makes this deeper look at two Astro City characters so interesting and thought-provoking. Busiek has also put this tale together in such a way that it absolutely doesn't matter if you have ever read an Astro City comic before. I hadn't, and I had no problem totally enjoying this self-contained story. Brent Anderson's art is perfect for this kind of in-depth character study. His work may not be as flashy as some, but his ability to tell a story and create characters who feel real is rock-solid.

So, if you've ever wondered WHY the Joker goes looking to get a Bat-fist in his face over and over again, this Astro City Special is well worth your time. Great art, great characters, and a done-in-one tale. What's not to love? Just look out for the reality-altering booby trap your arch-nemesis has cleverly disguised as an advertisement on page 7! And the fact that this is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week is NOT just some sort of plot to lure you out in the open. Honest!

An Excellent Jumping On Point: Justice League of America #0

Any time you put a group of people together, there are bound to be conflicts. Whether you are talking about a family, a band, or a team, it is simply inevitable that there will be trouble. Sometimes the tough spots make your group stronger, and sometimes they make it fall apart. So if your brother's band or your little league team have problems, imagine how much worse it would be for a group of super-powered heroes, aliens, and Amazons!

That's exactly what Brad Meltzer and an all-star artist jam are thinking about in Justice League of America #0. (Doesn't the zero issue concept mean that this book doesn't actually exist in our reality? Is it made from anti-matter? Should I read this with lead-lined gloves?) This issue doesn't really have a linear storyline. Instead, it jumps around in time and shows us many of the highs and lows in the League's history. In particular, how those highs and lows are mirrored in the relationship of DC's Big Three: Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman.

This issue is a good jumping on point for someone like me, not really a big DC reader, because I learned everything I needed to know about the League to be interested in what happens next. I imagine that long-time DC fans will appreciate some of the details that slipped past me, but I didn't feel left out of the story. Meltzer's character vignettes have something for every reader, new and old alike.

There is a huge roster of artists on this book, and each one is given an era to illustrate that best matches their style. This gives a distinctly different feel to each era of the League's history represented in this issue. Whatever your artistic preferences, you will find something you like here. Sometimes, the art changes from panel to panel as the time-shifts occur more frequently, which is a really neat way of handling the whole flashback thing without using the wavy lines trick from '80s sitcoms.

Justice League of America #0 gives readers a nifty, self-contained history, while looking forward to the future. If you are interested in where the League has been and, especially, where it is going, you really should pick up this (non-existant) issue now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Just don't forget to share it with your family and friends, you wouldn't want to start a fight!

Your teacher's a super-hero? Sensational Spider-Man #28

Teachers are SO cool! How much closer can you get to real-life superheroes? Teachers fight the good fight every day to improve lives, fight ignorance, and make the world a better place. Plus, teachers tend to be both intelligent and good-looking. Ummm, am I giving away what I do for a living here? OK, let's move on before someone starts throwing spitballs.

Even if you don't think teachers are the coolest people around, you should still get a kick out of Marvel's Sensational Spider-Man #28 by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Clayton Crain. If you've been hiding out in your underground lair for the last few months, you may have missed the fact that Spider-Man recently unmasked himself for all the world to see in Civil War. The first question most fans asked about this unmasking was, "How does this change Peter Parker's life?" This issue addresses that question, but looks even more deeply at how Pete's unveiling changes the lives of those around him. Particularly, the people around Peter that we've never thought much about before.

Jordan Harrison is a pretty typical high school kid. He works hard to keep up his grades, even though they aren't always great. He daydreams about his lab partner, who is a "total hottie." He worries about getting into a good college, so he can become a Marine Biologist someday. And his favorite teacher, his Biology teacher, is a guy named Parker who just made a big splash on the news wearing his Spider-Man tights. That is a big step for Spidey and a REALLY big deal for Jordan.

For the naysayers out there who were worried that Marvel would backpedal, failing to give the unmasking story the follow-through it deserved, this issue should help you to unclench just a bit. Clearly, this story is going to have huge ramifications, and they start here. Aguirre-Sacasa gives readers a great, self-contained story. Jordan, and his fellow students, are believable. Pete's first "unmasked" run-in with an old sparring partner is worth the price of admission all by itself. Clayton Crain's art is always amazing in the level of detail and realism he brings to a story. His images really seem to jump off the page. I always enjoy Crain's work, but I think it is even better than usual in this book, since there is less of the dark quality that sometimes makes his art hard to see.

Are we still paying attention class? This is a fun book, tied into major Marvel Universe events, but with a totally done-in-one story. Don't make me keep you after class, read Sensational Spider-Man #28 while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. And don't forget to thank a teacher today!

Everybody loves H.A.T.E.! Nextwave #6

For comic book fans, Summer means huge crossovers, blockbuster movies and loads of promotional hoopla. This is all well and good, but it's also important to remember the great comics that don't get caught up in the media's gigantic PR machine. CNN may get all excited about Superman, Spidey's press conference, and the new Batwoman's sexual preferences, but, for some reason, they don't seem to care about H.A.T.E.! Get with the program, people!

As far as I'm concerned, EVERYONE should love H.A.T.E.-especially Nextwave: Agents of H.A.T.E.! In case you have been missing out, Nextwave is a hilarious, action-packed spectacle of madness from the demented minds of writer Warren Ellis and penciler Stuart Immonen. It is also one of the craziest things ever published by Marvel Comics. It isn't always easy for one of the Big Two publishers to let creative minds just go mad with their toys, but, when they do, readers should take notice.

In this issue, our rogue agents of H.A.T.E. have a titanic throw-down with their former boss: the homicidal, suicidal, brain-damaged, lizard jerky chewing, cross-dressing, tooth grinding, Dirk Anger. The weapons in Anger's arsenal are fearsome indeed! He throws the robotic warriors of Samuroid Batch 23 at them! He unleashes the terrible Pteromen! He sends forth the scuttling horror of the Homicide Crabs! He may even release the Neo-Hyde Gutspawn (They eat girls, you know.)! How will our heroes survive? Since this is Nextwave, you know copious quantities of explosions and kicking will be involved. Oh, and there is a robot in a bra. How can anyone resist that?

Nextwave not only packs a ton of fun into every issue, it also makes sure that the fun is accessible for new readers. The stories are told in one or two issue bites, and there is a brilliantly funny primer page at the front of every issue to tell new readers anything they might need to know. The writing is (as you might expect from Warren Ellis) incredibly clever and loaded with twisted characters that make this book unique. Immonen's art is also stylish and action-packed. If you are a fan of crazy, over the top action, Nextwave: Agents of H.A.T.E. will deliver in a big way.

So if your summer fun is fading in the aftermath of all the big movies and huge comic book crossovers, Nextwave #6 is just the breath of exciting fresh air you need. Don't miss out on all the H.A.T.E.-filled awesomeness! H.A.T.E. does it all for you! Show some appreciation and kick back with a fresh pack of pep-filled Lizard Zoom Sticks and the latest issue of Nextwave. You won't make Dirk Anger happy, but you might make him slightly less enraged. Isn't that the least you can do, after everything H.A.T.E. has done for you?

Eternally Cool: Eternals #1

Most people don't respond well to being approached by strangers who are desperate to share their crazy ramblings with them. As soon as some guy on the street starts telling you about the secret government plan to hide Atlantis from the aliens who, by the way, are always watching you, you're probably gonna head in the opposite direction as fast as your feet will carry you. That kind of thing is just way out of our comfort zone.

Unfortunately for him, that is just about what happens to Mark Curry in Eternals #1 by Neil Gaiman and John Romita Jr. Mark is a hard-working medical intern whose life has hit a bit of a rough patch. His job is relentless, his student loan payments are overdue, his girlfriend just left him, and he is having some really weird dreams. The only thing that could make matters worse would be having some weirdo show up at the hospital to tell Mark that they are both actually super-powerful, immortal aliens who have been around for half a million years, give or take a decade. So, of course, that guy does turn up in the men's room.

The weirdo, who says his name is Ike Harris, is not easy to get rid of. He keeps turning up where Mark least expects him, with tales about the dawn of time, the origins of the humanity, a race of gigantic aliens called the Celestials, and super-powered beings known as the Deviants and the Eternals. Mark, normally enough, is not inclined to believe anything Ike tells him. It seems, however; that SOMEONE believes because Ike and the other Eternals soon find themselves targeted by some very violent and dangerous people.

If you've been a comics reader for any time at all, the names Gaiman and Romita will almost certainly not be new to you. Neil Gaiman is an award-winning, best-selling novelist, who also wrote Sandman (widely considered to be one of the all-time greatest series in comic's history). Known for his epic fantasy tales, Eternals is a perfect fit for Gaiman. These characters, originally created by Jack Kirby, inhabit a world of god-like beings, mysterious aliens and thought-provoking, fantastic concepts. It is a real treat for fans to have Gaiman back in comics with such a great story. Top that off with powerful and dynamic art from John Romita Jr. (who has probably drawn just about every character in the Marvel Universe by now), and you have a winning combination that is hard to beat.

Great writing, great art, and really cool characters. What more could anyone ask for? Eternals is definitely a series that should not be missed. That's why it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Just try not to get distracted by that guy on your porch who wants to sell you an aluminum foil hat to keep the little gray men from reading your mind. That guy really is crazy.

Wranglin' Up a Good Time: The Mighty Marvel Western featuring Two-Gun Kid

Saddle-up, ya low-down, greasy, yella-bellied varmints! We is goin' ridin' with the Kid. Two-Gun Kid, that is. And don't go pointin' out that most all of them masked gunslinger types carries two guns. That's the Kid's gimmick, and it would be downright rude to ruin it fer him. (Reckon I should give this here authentic, western writin' style a rest, afore I busts my dialect bone.)

Over the next couple of months, Marvel is publishing a series of one-shots featuring their western characters under the Mighty Marvel Western banner. Like the monster-themed one shots from a few months back, each issue has a new story (or two) by a top-notch writer/artist team and a classic reprint story, all under a cover by Eric (The Goon) Powell. The first book out of the gate in this series is Two-Gun Kid, by Dan Slott and Eduardo Barreto.

Two-Gun Kid has a whole mess of entertainment value to make it well worth your 6 bits (or 3.99, as the case may be). Two-Gun Kid, AKA Matt Hawk, has recently found his way into the modern Marvel Universe thanks to his big, green, buddy She-Hulk. Matt is an interesting guy because he is not only a quick-drawin', sharp-shootin' gunslinger, but also a book-learned, law-slinging lawyer. With his legal skills being a hundred years or so out of date, Matt has been helping out at Shulkie's law firm by roundin' up some of the ornery critters they need to wrangle into court. Wranglin' skills never go out of date!

The story in this issue starts with Matt and She-Hulk on a vital mission (one that you don't want to miss if you've been reading She-Hulk, and you SHOULD be reading She-Hulk), but quickly becomes a flashback to Matt's past. This self-contained western tale has masked gunslingers, loads of action, and werewolves! Slott's story is great and Barreto's art lends a perfectly dry and dusty feel to the Tombstone setting. As if that wasn't enough fun, this issue also has a Keith Giffen tall tale featuring Hugo, the world's smallest cowboy. AND there is a full-length Jack Kirby classic reprint story featuring the Rawhide Kid: Beware the Terrible Totem! If all that isn't worth your 6 bits, I don't know what is. (Please be aware, I have no idea how much a "bit" actually is. If you try to pay for this comic in bits, you may be unsuccessful.)

So don't give me none of your sass, cowpokes! Get your ornery mitts on a copy of The Mighty Marvel Western featuring Two-Gun Kid with no delay. It's guaranteed at Four Color Fantasies this week, so there ain't no way you can lose. It'll give ya something to do while yore tendin' yore saddle sores!

Say Uncle: Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man #9

We all know that comic book reality is a bit warped. When people die in the real world, no one wonders "when will they be back?" But in comics, that's the first question that comes to mind when a character goes to the big super-hero lair in the sky. We've gotten used to the weird logic of comic's storytelling that tells us death is just a temporary setback. Of course, there is an unspoken law that at least two characters can NEVER come back. Captain America's little chum Bucky and Peter Parker's Uncle Ben.

Recently, and to much critical acclaim, Ed Brubaker actually found a way to bring back Bucky. Somehow, the world didn't end. Readers liked the story, and Bucky came back to the land of the living. Brubaker got away with that one, but nobody would be crazy enough to.....what? Peter David did what? Brought Uncle Ben back to life? Is he allowed to do that?

I guess if anyone can be trusted to handle such a delicate subject, it's Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man writer Peter David. Mr. David has written tons of great comics over the years, including popular runs on Incredible Hulk, Supergirl, X-Factor, Spider-Man 2099, Aquaman, and many, many more. (He is a best-selling novelist too! Check out his Knight Life and Sir Apropos of Nothing series.) If anyone else even mentioned having Uncle Ben walking around, I'd be very afraid. Another writer might have made this a cheap stunt, instead of a great story. However; I think we can give Peter David the benefit of the doubt here.

So what exactly is going on in Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man #9? I don't want to give too much away, but it involves alternate realities jumbling together, the time-patrolling Spider-Man of the year 2211, and future Spidey's daughter, who also happens to be the Hobgoblin of 2211. Oh, and did I mention, Uncle Ben? I know that sounds complicated, but David's great storytelling makes it all make sense. The story is aided and abetted by great pencils from Mike Wieringo. Wieringo is equally good at drawing character moments, super-hero action, and futuristic fashions and city-scapes. All of which makes him a perfect fit for this title.

If you haven't been checking out what this great creative team has been doing with Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, you've been missing one of the best books on the stands right now. Poor Uncle Ben has had a pretty raw deal in Spider-Man history, he is a pivotal character whose importance lies in being dead. Peter David is giving Ben Parker a chance to show his stuff, at least for a while, in the land of the living. Have some respect for the dead, and read Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man #9. It's Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week!

Pasty-faced Fun: Spectre #1

When you think of ghosts, you usually think of something scary. Ghosts jump out at you in the night, screaming and moaning and making you run for the exorcist. Maybe they possess creepy dolls, or make the walls of your house bleed, or throw some crockery around. At the very least, they leave creepy Ouija Board messages. Scary stuff, kids!

However; in the DC Universe, ghosts apparently can't do squat. At least, that's the case for the ghost of Crispus Allen. Allen is a ex-homicide detective. "Ex" because he is, ironically for the guy who shows up at murder scenes, deceased in the line of duty. Shortly after his death, where he is quite surprised to find himself still hanging around, Crispus is paid a visit by the Spectre. The pasty-faced Instrument of Divine Justice wants to recruit Detective Allen for the cause, but the recently deceased detective is not interested in the position.

Not one to take no for an answer, the Spectre gives Crispus a year to ponder his choice. In that year, he discovers that ghosts just can't do very much. He observes the world around him, but he can't make his presence felt to his family, to his killer, or even to Batman. (And that guy doesn't miss anything!) After a year of this unsatisfying existence, Allen is a bit more interested when the Spectre returns, but administering God's justice may not be the gig he is expecting...

The Spectre #1, an Infinite Crisis Aftermath tie-in, is written by Will Pfeifer with art by Cliff Chiang. Pfeifer's story tells you everything you need to know about the Spectre, and makes a great start for this new series. I knew nothing about the Spectre going into this issue and I never felt like I was missing anything, despite the ties to other DCU stories. Chiang's art is dark and spooky, so it has the right vibe for this otherworldly tale.

If you want a little ghostly fun, but don't want to cut holes in your good sheets, give The Spectre #1 a try. Don't be scared to try it now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week!

Learn and Enjoy: Orson Scott Card's Red Prophet: Tales of Alvin Maker #2

We all know that comics are wonderful, escapist entertainment. Every once in a while, however; a comic comes along that offers more than just mindless entertainment. Yes, reading some comics can make you feel like you are learning something. (I mean something besides the "facts" that radiation gives you super-powers and that zombies like brains.) Now don't get scared by the "L" word! Learning stuff can be fun AND good for you.

Orson Scott Card's Red Prophet: Tales of Alvin Maker #2 (hitherto referred to as Red Prophet) by Card, Roland Brown and Renato Arlem, is a great example of what I'm talking about here. After reading this comic, adapted from Card's novel, I really felt like I had brushed up on my American history. Though the story is clearly fictional, and contains some fantasy elements, I'm confident that Card did his research on history and native beliefs before writing this tale.

The story of Red Prophet takes place during the Western Expansion phase of America's development. In particular, it deals with the clash of cultures between the indigenous Americans and the European American settlers. In retrospect, we know that even the best intentioned pioneers had a disastrous impact on Native Americans (and those with bad intentions were, of course, infinitely worse). This story shows how different settlers, in different ways, really messed things up for the folks who were already living on this land.

After the murder of his father, young Lolla-Wossiky is never quite the same. He was always more sensitive and in-tune with the land than others, but witnessing such a violent, personal tragedy heightens that sensitivity to an overpowering and painful extent. Lolla-Wossiky sees and hears things that others don't. Things that can only be quieted with lots of alcohol. When he takes a keg of whiskey and heads off across the land to meet his dream beast, will Lolla-Wossiky find answers or just more confusing questions?

Red Prophet has a satisfying, thought-provoking story and realistic art that perfectly captures the historical setting. Best of all, you can learn something WITHOUT a keg of whiskey and a hundred mile walk! Try out Red Prophet while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week.

No Elves Allowed: Wolfskin #1

Though I know it is oversimplifying things to say this, there are really two basic kinds of story in the fantasy genre. The first type has elves and magic and powerful relics with portentous names, like the "Great Ring of Eternal Diptheria." I know many people love those stories, but they just aren't my cup of black ale. The second type has enormous, hairy, foul-mouthed men (and sometimes women) who cart around gigantic swords and hack the living daylights out of each other. Now THAT, I can appreciate!

If, like me, you want your fantasy tales uncomplicated and violent, you're in for a treat with Avatar's Wolfskin #1 by Warren Ellis and Juan Jose Ryp. There isn't really much to say about the plot of the first issue. The Wolfskin of the title is a lone warrior from an infamous brotherhood of fighters. He is happy to mind his own business in life, but he is waylaid by troublemakers who just can't leave a stranger walking through their territory alone. Much extremely graphic hacking and beheading ensues. There is a larger plot building about a village at war, but this issue is mostly about the hacking.

Warren Ellis has earned a reputation as a writer who is not afraid to push the envelope or do the unexpected. You never know what you are going to get with a Warren Ellis comic, but you know it will be something different. Ellis brings his over-the-top style to the fantasy genre with Wolfskin, and it's a breath of fresh air compared to some of the self-important, elf-laden stuff out there. Ellis is also, along with Garth Ennis and Brian Bendis, one of comic's greatest writers of good old-fashioned cussin'. Even though there is more fighting than talking in this debut issue, our hero does show he can wield his tongue as well as his sword. (Avatar doesn't have a "mature readers" label on this book, but it is clearly not for the young or easily offended!)

Ryp's artwork is incredibly detailed, and wonderfully depicts both the violence and beauty of this world. Every time you pick the book up, you will notice elements in the art that you missed the last time through. The detail in some of the fight scenes suggests that he really brushed up on his Grey's Anatomy for this series.

Dig your least moldy old animal skin out of the closet, strap on your rusty broadsword, and pillage your way to Four Color Fantasies to try out Wolfskin #1. Just leave your pointy elf hat and wand of unicorn summoning at home.

Political Straight-Shooter: Green Arrow #61

No matter what your political leanings may be, I bet that most of us can agree on one thing: ninety percent of politicians are full of enormous, stinky, piles of hooey. It seems to me that politics would be SO much more productive (and interesting!) if politicians could forget about fund-raising and public opinion polls, and actually say what they really think about the issues. Hopefully, deeds would quickly follow the words. With no more kissing up to lobbies, or sweet-talking the press, maybe the politicos would be able to DO something useful for a change.

What does this have to do with comics, you ask? (And isn't that one of life's more pressing questions? Everything should have SOMETHING to do with comics.) Well, it has a lot to do with Green Arrow #61. Part of DC's "1 Year Later" event, this issue reveals that, during the missing year of the title, Oliver Queen (the maverick alter-ego of Green Arrow) has gotten himself elected as the Mayor of Star City.

Written by Judd Winick with art by Scott McDaniel, this issue reveals Ollie as the kind of politician I would like to see in the real world. He says exactly what he thinks, without worrying about being politically correct, hurting anyone's feelings, or even seeming just a bit crazy. Wouldn't we all like to see a public figure stand up at a press conference and threaten to hit the press with fire hoses if they don't settle down? He makes it quite clear that he became the mayor to help his city, and he will do whatever it takes to make things happen. Even if it kills him. Of course, killing the new Mayor has already occurred to some people....

By far the best thing about this issue is watching Mayor Queen handle his first press conference. Winick's version of Ollie is a guy I would jump to vote for, if given the chance. Though the press conference is very funny, it also makes sense that this is the kind of no-nonsense politician anyone crazy enough to dress up in green and shoot arrows at criminals would be. For the action fans out there, this issue isn't all politics and microphones. Ollie does get to suit up for a little archery action, and McDaniel's clean, stylish art is equally good in both settings. (It does cross my mind that a big-time public figure might need more to disguise himself than a hood and a little tiny green eye-mask. The beard should be a dead giveaway!)

So if you like a little politics in your comicbook world, Green Arrow #61 may be just the book for you. Not many super-folks have managed much success in the political arena (I'm looking at you, Tony Stark), so I can't wait to see if Ollie pulls it off! Cast your vote for more butt-kicking, arrow-fletching politicians. Mayor Queen speaks LOUDLY, and carries a big quiver! Vote now while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week.

Tough Life: Runaways #15

Even in the most normal of families, kids are frequently appalled by their parents. They dress funny, and say weird things, and are just embarassing all the way round. So you can imagine how much worse it is when your parents turn out to be evil super-villains who want to rule the world. Getting grounded would be the least of your worries!

That is precisely the problem that the young heroes of Runaways had to deal with. When these kids discovered that their parents were on the wrong side of the good/bad divide, they stole a bunch of their folk's villainous gear and ran away from home. Even though they eventually defeated their parents, the Runaways troubles are far from over. Not only do they have to fend for themselves in the world, but they have to deal with any threats that rise up to fill in the void left by their naughty moms and dads.

Of course, some threats are more personal than others. When friends of the Runaways' disgraced, and dead, former leader (Alex Wilder) try to ressurect Alex, they actually succeed in bringing back a young version of Alex's evil dad. (I know this is confusing, but that's what it's like to be a teenager, isn't it?) Needless to say, Geoffrey Wilder isn't any too pleased to find out what these bratty kids have gotten up to. As far as he's concerned, it is time for a SERIOUS spanking!

Runaways #15 is written by Brian K. Vaughan, with pencils by Adrian Alphona. Vaughan has a reputation for telling great stories (Y: The Last Man and Mystique, to name just two), and he lives up to that reputation here. The characters are well-developed, and the messes they find themselves in seem believable, even though they are firmly set in crazy super-hero world. Alphona's art is clean and simple, with enough style (and a bit of anime influence) to keep things visually interesting.

No matter how weird your family may be, your domestic troubles will seem like a breeze compared to the lives of the Runaways! So don't run away from home, pick up Runaways #15 today and you'll feel much better about your own life. Try it now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. It's way cheaper than counselling!

Pointed Truth = Wolverine: Origins #1

Wolverine: He's the best there is at what he does. And what he does is carry around an enormously convoluted backstory! For decades, Wolvie has been the go-to guy for enigmatic storytelling. He's had so many different phony origins and shocking revelations that were later revealed to be untrue, no one knows what to believe about poor old Logan. In fact, he's had enough fictional memory implants and episodes of amnesia, that even Wolverine doesn't know his real past.

Marvel is hoping to change all that with the new ongoing series Wolverine: Origins. It could be argued that, what with being in the X-Men, the Avengers, and his own book, we already have more than enough Wolverine each month. However; thanks to the events of the recent House of M series, this book does have a purpose in the Wolvie-verse. During the big M-event, Logan got the one thing he always wanted: his memory came back! Of course, a hundred years worth of returned memories does bring back a whole bunch of unfinished business that needs takin' care of.

Wolverine: Origins gives writer Daniel Way and artist Steve Dillon the opportunity to work through all of that unfinished business with Logan. This series focuses on Wolvie's attempts to take care of business and get some payback for all the crummy stuff that various governments and evil organizations have heaped on him over the last century or so. With these events all kept in this book, the creative team don't have to worry about any crossovers or world-changing catastrophies going on in the rest of the Marvel Universe. Just pure angry-Logan action!

The team is off to a good start in Origins #1. Wolvie doesn't fool around. Now that he has his memories back, he heads straight to the White House to ask a few "pointed" questions. (Get it? Pointed? Claws? Ha!) Unfortunately, nothing is ever simple for Wolverine, and SHIELD, a nuclear missile, and a huge killer robot all end up involved. Way's story is intense and fast-paced, as all the best Wolverine stories are. Dillon's realistic art brings a great, hard edge to this gritty tale. Nobody draws better tooth-gritting tough guys than Steve Dillon. Wolvie is clearly here to chew gum and kick butts, but he's NEVER been much of a gum chewer! Plus, for all you old-school fan folks, this series features Wolvie in his classic 1980s brown and tan costume!

If you like Wolverine, but don't want to read any of the universe-spanning crossovers he tends to appear in, this is the book for you. This title is all set to be great self-contained, butt-kicking fun. This is your chance to find all the answers about Wolverine's past in one convenient place. Give it a try, bub! Especially now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week.

Can you keep a secret? Illuminati Special

Shhhh! Can you keep a secret? I hope so, because we are gonna talk about some seriously classified stuff today. Secret society stuff. Don't mention a word of this to anyone, or we may have to send some men in black over to "re-educate" you. We understand each other? Good.

A lot of people believe that there are secret societies ruling the world from behind the scenes. Personally, I'm a bit sceptical. Our government can't even keep its bribery and adultery scandals secret, let alone hide alien spaceships or conceal the fact that the Freemasons are really ruling the world. I think some people find comfort in the idea of secret societies. If most of our elected officials seem incompetent, isn't it nice to think the REALLY smart people are in control behind the scenes?

Of course, the Marvel Universe is a bit different from the real world. In their universe, there really are some people who may just be smart enough to run things from behind the scenes. At least, Tony Stark (AKA Iron Man) thinks so. In the New Avengers: Illuminati special, the history of Marvel's secret society is finally revealed. After the Kree-Skrull War, Stark decides that the world's heroes need to unite, work together, and share information to prevent possible future disasters on the same massive scale. To that end, Tony gathers the leaders and great minds of the super-human community: Reed Richards, Charles Xavier, Black Bolt, Namor, Doctor Strange, Black Panther, and (of course) himself. Unfortunately, great minds also come with great differences of opinion, and things don't work out quite the way Tony plans...

If you are planning to read any of the big events taking place in the Marvel Universe this year, you really need to read Illuminati. Planet Hulk, Civil War, and upcoming events in New Avengers, all spin out of this book. If you want a peek behind the scenes, to see who has been shaping the events of the Marvel U for the last couple of decades, you need to read Illuminati. If you like any of the other great books by creators Brian Bendis (who writes like 100 books a month nowadays) and Alex Maleev, you need to read Illuminati. So, to sum up, you need to read Illuminati.

We all know that one-shot specials often turn out to be pretty easy to pass up, having minimal repercussions and forgettable storylines. Don't make that assumption with this book! This is a key issue that will be pivotal to events in the months ahead. Get in the know, and read New Avengers: Illuminati! Just don't go running your mouth about it later. Loose lips and all that. Put on your extra-dark shades and skulk down to Four Color Fantasies to pick up a copy of this guaranteed Book of the Week. Ssshhhhhh!

Khonshu's Finest: Moon Knight #1

What kind of guy dresses up in an all-white outfit to go out at night and kick the crud out of evil-doers? The kind of guy you don't want to mess with. The kind of guy who is both nutty and dangerous. In other words, a Moon Knight kind of guy!

Moon Knight takes a lot of heat from the uninformed for being Marvel's Bat-Man wannabee. On the surface, the characters do have some similarities. At least one of Moony's personas is a rich playboy. Both heroes are regular guys, powered more by their own obsessions than by any super-abilities. Both heroes have a bundle of cool gadgets to help them thwart their enemies. Both heroes even have the scary, spooky "avenger in the night" vibe. So what makes Moon Knight different? He's a whole lot crazier than Bat-Man could ever be! In fact, Bats seems almost normal compared to Moon Knight.

For the uninitiated, Marc Spector (AKA Moon Knight) was a mercenary who "saw the light" when he died and miraculously returned to life in front of a statue representing the Egyptian deity Khonshu. Naturally, he assumed this meant Khonshu wanted him to go out and beat the daylights out of naughty people. Unlike most heroes, Spector wasn't satisfied with any one alter-ego. He developed a plethora of aliases, each with his own totally separate personality. When Spector takes on the roles of Jake Lockley, Steven Grant, or Moon Knight, it is not at all clear if he is playing a part or if he really thinks he has become someone else. This makes Moon Knight pretty unpredictable. You never know what he may be capable of, but he sure isn't playing by Bat-Man's strict rule book. I don't think Khonshu even has a rule book. (Hieroglyphics are such a pain!)

Crime novelist Charlie Huston, a long-time Moon Knight fan, definitely seems to be emphasizing the dark and unpredictable side of Khonshu's #1 disciple. This new series is not throwing out any of the old Moon Knight stories, but it is delving into a whole new phase of his life. Huston is clearly not afraid to take this character into some of the darkest places he has ever been. And Moony has never looked better with dark and detailed art by David Finch, last seen on New Avengers. Finch's take on the brooding Knight makes it very clear that you would NEVER want to run into him in a dark alley. Or anywhere else for that matter.

I have a feeling that, this time around, Moon Knight is gonna hit the big-time! He is finally going to earn the respect that a crazed vigilante in a moon-themed costume deserves. If you don't want to miss out, you need to pick up Moon Knight #1 while you can! You have nothing to lose while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week!!

Hammer Time: Fantastic Four #536

If I had a hammer...well, actually, I do have a few hammers. I don't do much of anything with them. They mostly just sit in the shed and rust. Every once in a while, I get one out, smash my thumb with it, and remind myself why I am not really much of a do-it-yourself kind of guy. But, if I had THOR'S hammer, the mighty Mjolnir, umm, I probably couldn't even pick it up. I guess I'm just not a hammer kind of guy. There are those, however; that enjoy a well-crafted tool...

I don't think it's much of a spoiler to say that Thor's hammer falls to earth in Fantastic Four #536. There's a really big picture of it on the cover afterall. In case you didn't know: Thor, Loki, and all the other Asgardians, vanished into the ether some time back. Ragnarok happened, the time of the Norse Gods was over, and that was all she wrote for Asgard. It makes sense that Mjolnir would be the one artifact of the Asgardian civilization to survive. That hammer has been through some tough situations, and always ended up in one piece.

Of course, those sneaky buggers in the government try to keep Mjolnir for themselves, but word gets out. That hammer is one hot addition for the toolbox that has everything, and a lot of people would like to get their hands on it. Including a certain Latverian dictator, with an army of robotic duplicates of his own noble self at his disposal. Is Doom back from the dead? And just what would Doom do if HE had a hammer? Don't you want to find out?

This issue, by the regular FF team of J. Michael Straczynski and Mike McKone, is a great comic on its own merits, but it also ties into some major Marvel Universe events. It's part of Marvel's "Road to Civil War" build-up, it gives Thor fans hope that the godly one could be up for some sort of return, and it has the Doom-tastic return of Doctor Doom! (Or at least a reasonable facsimile. Doom does copy himself quite a bit.)

Fantastic Four #536 has a great story, great art, and will clearly be a pivotal issue for some serious future events! Plus, Reed Richards eats a sandwich. This is definitely an issue to pick up while you can. Head over to Four Color Fantasies today, and try it out risk-free! Maybe it will inspire you to get out your own hammer and build a spice rack! Or smash a villainous troll in the face. Whatever works for you.

H.A.T.E. loves you! Try Nextwave #3.

H.A.T.E. loves you, so you should love H.A.T.E.! H.A.T.E. (Highest Anti-Terrorism Effort) loves you so much that they spend fortunes pumping General Dirk Anger full of special H.A.T.E. life-extending drugs, just so he can be out there saving your sorry rear-end day after endless day! Why does Anger do it? He does it for H.A.T.E., of course! What kind of stupid question is that? It sounds to me like you don't love H.A.T.E. nearly enough!

Nextwave, the Agents of H.A.T.E, don't actually love H.A.T.E anymore, either. The Nextwave team, a group of B-grade heroes put together by General Anger, found out that the Beyond Corp. (the parent company of H.A.T.E.) was actually a terrorist organization. You can probably see where they might feel a little conflicted about this. So the team absconded from the H.A.T.E. Aeromarine with the super-cool Shockwave Rider, and decided to take the fight to the terrorists in their own way: Healing America by beating people up!

Who are the H.A.T.E. haters who make up the Nextwave Squad? Great question! They are: Monica Rambeau (formerly Photon) who used to lead the Avengers, Aaron Stack (AKA Machine Man) who really hates most fleshy ones, Elsa Bloodstone who is a bigshot English monster-hunter, Tabitha Smith (AKA Boom Boom and Meltdown) who blows things up, and the Captain who, ummm, is really kind of a sucky hero. This unlikely band has taken it upon themselves to hunt down all of the Beyond Corporation's Unusual Weapons of Mass Destruction, such as the underpants wearing monster Fin Fang Foom, and destroy them before Beyond can make any nefarious use of them.

Personally, I love comics that aren't afraid to be a little different, and you can't get much more unique than Nextwave. This crazy, over-the-top series is the twisted brainchild of Warren Ellis and Stuart Immonen. Mr. Ellis is already well-known for some brilliant and subversive writing, so it is great that Marvel has been brave enough to let him really run wild with some of their toys. As I'm writing this review, I can't stop rereading the issue and chuckling. Nextwave has witty dialogue, tons of explosions, heaps of satire, more explosions, and quite a bit of punching and kicking. Immonen's unique and stylish art perfectly complements the out-there tone of this book. This series has quickly made it to the top of my favorites list, and it could soon be topping yours too!

If you hate terrorism, and you love H.A.T.E., you must read Nextwave! Try out issue #3 ASAP, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week! You really don't want to upset General Anger, he'll take a bite right outta ya!