Thinking of You (but not like in a weird creepy way): A Comic Collection Author/Artist: Beth Evans Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing Released: May 2, 2023 Received: NetGalley
Book Summary:
Thinking of You is a collection of comics by Beth Evans (@bethdrawsthings). She’s a great artist with a fantastic sense of humor. More importantly, she works hard to help others see the value in themselves. You don’t find that every day.
You’ll likely have seen Beth Evans’ works online, especially the ones about her Blobs. They’re the most popular. This is a collection of many of those moments designed specifically to help others feel seen and valued.
My Review:
Thinking of You is such a sweet and funny comic! Don’t believe me? Read the full title and think again. I love this sense of humor. It feels almost…gentle? Like the author is trying to uplift her readers through humor. Oh, wait, that basically is what she’s doing! Love it.
Many of the moments in this comic will be super relatable, especially to anyone who needs a bit of affirmation or encouragement. Honestly, there’s not a lot to say about Thinking of You – it pretty much speaks for itself! So go read it; you won’t regret it.
Highlights:
Humorous
Self-Help Comic
Blobs!
Thanks to Andrews McMeel Publishing and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Writer: Kelly Thompson Artist: Javier Pina Colorist: Yen Nitro Letterer: VC’s Clayton Cowles Publisher: Marvel Comics Released: February 15, 2023
Comic Summary:
Carol Danvers, Hazmat, Spider-Woman, and several X-Men are dealing with a Brood attack. They cannot leave until they safely recover their two missing allies (Binary and Rogue). But things are about to get a whole lot worse than they feared. Given Carol’s experience with the Brood, this is saying something…
Read this arc if you love crossovers, X-Men, Rogue, Spider-Woman, and Hazmat.
My Review:
We’re ever so close to the height of this arc as the Revenge of the Brood marches onward. Carol and crew have done all this to save their two friends, so we always knew it would get emotionally tense, right?
Kelly Thompson did a wonderful job of playing with past events and references throughout Captain Marvel #46. One thing I love about her writing Captain Marvel is she never dances around her history. It’s always present, and when it is relevant, boy, does it come up. Much of this plot feels oddly full circle but in a horrifying way. Only time will tell how accurate that statement is.
Oh! And that moment with Hazmat. I won’t say much more than that because of major spoilers. But it was amazing to see her get a moment to shine. Likewise, I enjoyed seeing the characters react and respond to what was happening at this moment. More, please. Likewise, I hope that promised conversation with Psylocke does occur. But I’ll settle for what has already been said.
The artwork in Captain Marvel #46 is incredible, unsurprisingly. Javier Pina (artist), Yen Nitro (colorist), and VC’s Clayton Cowles (letterer) all teamed up to bring this issue to life. They did an exceptionally brilliant job with the battle scenes, which is good because they’re a heavy focal point.
That said, a few subtle elements are worth noting, much of which has to do with the past. It always comes back around to the past, doesn’t it? Funny how that happens.
Writer: Steve Orlando Artist: Sara Pichelli Inking Assistant: Elisabetta D’Amico Colorist: Matthew Wilson Letterer: VC’s Cory Petit Publisher: Marvel Comics Released: January 4, 2023
Ahhhh! Yes! Scarlet Witch has always been one of my favorite comic series, and I’ve been missing it in recent years. So you can imagine my joy at the release of Scarlet Witch #1. Written by Steve Orlando, this issue has a ton of artists backing it up: Sara Pichelli, Elisabetta D’Amico, Matthew Wilson, and VC’s Cory Petit. I want to thank each and every one of them for bringing my favorite character back to her own solo series.
This issue starts with a moment of intrigue – what is Wanda up to, and where will it lead? From there, we’re quickly thrown into the action, almost literally. The pace keeps up from there, with a few surprising cameos along for the ride.
There are two core plots of Scarlet Witch #1. The first is the overarching project Wanda is working on; the second is related to this but still distinct. The latter plot reminded me a lot of the Purple Man, but with a few unique twists. It was almost nostalgic, and I love how it was handled (including how Wanda handled it).
I’ve been looking forward to this series for weeks, and Scarlet Witch #1 proves it was worth the wait! Now to kill some time before the next issue drops…
Series: Oneira #1 Author: Cab Artist: Di Meo Federica Publisher: Europe Comics Released: July 27, 2022 Received: NetGalley
Do you think you could survive a world of terror and death? Personally, I’m voting on no. The world of Oneira is dark and full of nightmares – sometimes more literally than one would like.
One of the best things about grabbing comics from NetGalley is that I can go into them without expectations. That lets them surprise me! However, I’ll admit that I wasn’t blown away by Oneira, much to my disappointment. The artwork made me want to love it, you know?
The series has potential, especially with the darker tones and heavier fight scenes. What it is lacking (at the moment) is context. There wasn’t much explanation for the world or even the fight that occurred. So while it was a very good-looking fight, it ultimately had no stakes for the readers. I hope future chapters will work to change that because I can see the potential here.
Thanks to Europe Comics and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
After a brief break, it’s time to dive back into a world full of heroes, monsters, and insanity. That’s right; it’s time forDeadpool #5. Somehow Deadpool is still holding on to his title of King of Monsters, but how long will his reign last?
Admittedly, this whole plot arc started off feeling like another Deadpool joke almost. But the longer it runs, and the more we see Deadpool interacting with his subjects… the more it seems to fit. Perhaps his reign will last longer than I thought. Either way, it’s going to be worth reading.
While King Deadpool has been a fun and interesting change with this new series, it’s Jeff the Land Shark who’s stealing the show. Okay, that’s totally my bias showing, as I adored him in West Coast Avengers. But still, it’s fun to see him around once more.
Writing
While the previous four episodes of this series weren’t afraid to dip into something darker, it feels like Deadpool #5 hit me right in the feels. Not because of character death or anything like that – just the level of importance woven into the narrative.
Now and then, a Deadpool series will try to send a message. This time around, it’s a message about monsters and assumptions. It’s quite powerful, so I have to give Kelly Thompson full credit for what was done here.
Don’t worry; this issue isn’t all heavy tones. There are plenty of funny moments to be found (this is Deadpool we’re talking about). Likewise, there are several scenes involving my now-favorite character, Jeff.
Honestly, there’s a lot to love and appreciate about this issue. This is a side of Deadpool you don’t get to see every day. Combine that with what he’s trying to do with Monster Island, and you’ve really got something here.
I honestly don’t know how far the King of Monsters plot is going to get pushed. That being said, I’m sincerely looking forward to finding out. I adore this side of Deadpool and cannot wait to see more like it.
Art
There’s something about this Deadpool series that attacks a large number of talented artists. Deadpool #5 once again has a massive creative team, including Gerardo Sandoval (pencils & inks), Victoria Nava (inks), Chris Sotomayor (colors), and VC’s Joe Sabino (letters).
There is so much crammed into this one issue, so the number of artists involved makes quite a bit of sense. There are some entertaining scenes, some tense scenes, and lots of scenes that require creative thinking.
Even though Deadpool’s face is never shown, there’s still a shocking amount of emotion to be found in this issue. And yes, that’s also taking into account the number of monsters present. The scenes themselves are bright and full of action – just the way we like them.
Finally, I have to say that I really appreciate the way that one character in particular communicated in this issue. It was fun and different but also made complete sense given what was going on. It showed a level of forethought that I appreciated.
Conclusion
Deadpool #5 was not the issue I was expecting it to be – it was so much better. This issue mixed emotions and tones in a way that only Deadpool is capable of, creating a reading experience with a message hidden within. It’s what the fans deserved and needed right now.
This review was originally written for Word of the Nerd, but has been ported over to Quirky Cat’s Fat Stacks now that the site has shut down.
Thor & Loki: Double Trouble #3 is about to continue the tale of two iconic Marvel siblings. This series is perfect for fans that adore either brother but have been hoping to see a more light-hearted version than what the MCU most recently portrayed (looking at you, Infinity War).
Thus far, Thor and Loki have been bouncing from one moment of chaos to the next. It’s almost as if Loki has planned all of this. Which, in hindsight, is entirely possible. Knowing the God of Mischief. And it looks like the latest issue is about to double that chaos, courtesy of a few other iconic heroes of the same name.
Thor & Loki: Double Trouble is the perfect balance between hilarity and pandemonium and will prove to be an entertaining romp through the nine realms.
Writing
Thor & Loki: Double Trouble #3 is very much an issue that modern Thor fans have been waiting for. In reality, it probably was only a matter of time before the Goddess of Thunder made her way into these pages.
Written by Mariko Tamaki, this issue is pretty much everything that fans could have asked for. Then again, my bias is probably showing there, as I am a fan of both Tamaki and the guest star of the issue.
The comedic timing in issue three is on point, with plenty of MCU references (one in particular fans will enjoy), banter, and some scenes that border on slapstick humor. It makes this pair seem much younger than they are, but that is half the fun of it. Mariko Tamaki has captured the essence of these characters. She whittled them down to more bubbly versions of the characters we’re more used to seeing and created something so delightful in the process.
As for the ending of this issue? Well, it promises more shenanigans, of the variety that only Loki can create. In short, it’s going to fit in quite nicely with the rest of this series.
Art
The artwork in Thor & Loki: Double Trouble #3 is even more charming than the characters – assuming that is possible. Gurihiru’s artwork shines here, creating endearing and comical characters that steal the show.
In truth, every single panel of this series has made me crave to see the antics play out in cartoon form. Gurihiru’s artwork only compounds that craving. Much of the comedic timing is helped along with the artwork, providing subtle and nonverbal cues that land the jokes. The over-the-top reactions are just an added bonus—a significant one.
VC’s Ariana Maher’s letters are the final touch needed for this issue. While much of the writing itself looks proper Asgardian, the antics are anything but. Which is made clear through more subtle ways in Maher’s art. Or less subtle when it comes to portraying the sounds of a fight.
Conclusion
Thor & Loki: Double Trouble #3 is by far the most fun I’ve had while reading comic books in quite some time. That is saying something, given all of the comics that have been coming out in recent times.
The characters are adorable, quirky, and spirited, laying the groundwork for entertaining and memorable antics. While I can’t speak for everyone here, I can say with complete honesty that I will be sad when this series comes to an end.
For those that haven’t been following along, America Chavez once again has worked her way into a solo series. This time around, her world is getting turned on its head, especially in America Chavez: Made in the U.S.A #3.
The whole series has been doing a bit of a deep dive on a character many know and love so well. It’s just in time for her MCU debut – portrayed by Xochitl Gomez. How much of this arc will directly affect her MCU version? Only time will tell.
America’s story has always been an emotionally compelling one. She’s a determined and super-powered LGBTQ+ Latin-American, and she isn’t afraid to let her light shine. This latest arc has brought those emotional notes to new highs, all while delving into what makes America the person she is.
Writing
America Chavez: Made in the U.S.A #3 is arguably the most dramatic issue of the series thus far, with lots of twists and surprise revelations popping up all over the place. So settle in on the couch with a nice cozy blanket because this one is going to be quite the ride.
Written by Kalinda Vazquez, this issue brings into question everything we know about America Chavez. One can only imagine how much more confusing it must be for her, as her world gets torn apart and rebuilt right before her eyes.
It’s a fascinating and compelling story, one that raises so many questions along the way. How much of this is really true? How will this affect America going forward? What is the long-term intent behind the writing? Once again, I find myself saying, ‘only time will tell.’
All I can say is that the story within these pages packs a punch. An emotional gut punch, sure, but a punch nonetheless. The irony is not lost on me.
Art
America Chavez: Made in the U.S.A #3 features some truly outstanding artwork, but the cover probably made that pretty clear, huh? Her character and her resoluteness shine through so bright here, even as everything else comes into question.
Carlos Gomez’s artwork is to die for, thankfully not literally. The characters portrayed here, both new and old, draw the eye. It’s impossible to look away or to miss the clear implications being made. Yet, there are many subtle details woven into the artwork as well, making it worth taking a closer look.
Jesus Aburtov’s colors help to make this issue so bright and vibrant, even while the world feels like it’s tipping upside down. America’s iconic colors are there, of course. But it’s more than that. It’s the way her powers are portrayed or the derelict backgrounds in a given scene. It all feels so intentional and…alive.
Finally, VC’s Travis Lanham’s letters are not to be ignored. There’s a whole lot of dialogue in this issue, but it actually doesn’t feel that way. Lanham’s artwork flawlessly merges it with the artwork, creating a sense of flow from panel to panel. Even when there’s so much information to take in, it never feels overwhelming.
Conclusion
America Chavez: Made in the U.S.A #3 is not an issue for fans to miss out on. Especially if you’re hoping to be well-prepared for what the MCU version may be throwing our way. I can’t be certain, but the changes implied here may very well be farther reaching.
Either way, her story has somehow become even more emotionally gripping and compelling. She feels more real than ever, all the more so because of what she is currently processing. It’s grounding her in ways that are difficult to put into words.
This month marks the 30th anniversary of the one and only Darkhawk. So it’s only natural that we (and by we, I mean the fans and Marvel Comics) celebrate by enjoying a new issue! Darkhawk: Heart of the Hawk is an issue I have been waiting years for, and I wish I were kidding.
Darkhawk has long been one of those characters that is near and dear to me. I’ll confess that I always get irrationally excited whenever I hear his name cropping up in Marvel Comics. Far too often, it feels like he’s been cast to the wayside.
He’s a character who used to have his own series, but unfortunately, it’s been quite a while since that happened! I’m hoping that this cycle of getting new miniseries and solo issues is a good sign for his character. I desperately want to see him make a comeback in 2021.
Darkhawk: Heart of the Hawk is a collection of three different stories, Cry of the City, Long Way From Home, and Last Flight. While I loved each and every one of them, I have to say that I’m really just so happy to see the original creators (Danny Fingeroth and Mike Manley) back on the scene.
Working alongside Danny Fingeroth and Mike Manley, you’ll find Chris Sotomayor, Dan Abnett, Andrea Di Vito, Le Beau Underwood, Sebastian Cheng, Kyle Higgins, Juanan Ramirez, Erick Arciniega, and VC’s Travis Lanham. It’s a huge cast of creatives, one I couldn’t be happier to see working together.
Writing
As I already mentioned, Darkhawk: Heart of the Hawk is split into three different stories. Each one pulls from a different point in Chris Powell’s life. It’s fascinating to see his story broken into such a retrospective manner.
Cry of the City is the first story and was written and illustrated by the two original creators. That just felt…so right. This really felt like it was ripped right from Powell’s origin story. It’s like a missing piece that we’ve always looked for. Fingeroth’s storytelling helped to expand a little bit more on the time Powell spent on earth – while still adjusting to his newfound abilities and enemies.
The second story, Long Way From Home was written by Dan Abnett. It’s set sometime after The War of Kings and Cancerverse plots. That in itself probably speaks volumes to the fans, as both plot arcs packed quite the punch. This story helped to cement those events in Powell’s history while showing his continuing struggles and adventures.
Last but certainly not least, we have the Last Flight, written by Kyle Higgins. Out of the stories, this is by far the one that carries the most emotional weight. It’s set late into Chris’ story and is both heartbreaking and hopeful all in one. Truthfully, I don’t know how Higgins managed to weave so much emotion into the narrative, but he certainly did that. It makes for a powerful read. Again, especially for fans of Darkhawk.
Artwork
The artwork found in Darkhawk: Heart of the Hawk is bold and vibrant, showing off some of my favorite designs for character. I have a feeling I’m not the only one that is going to appreciate the art and styles portrayed in this issue. While the three stories all have different artists, inkers, and colorists, they do have one person in common. VC’s Travis Lanham was the letterer for all three, providing a sense of cohesion throughout.
Cry of the City‘s artwork really does look like a blast from the past. By that, I mean it really could have been pulled straight from that time period. There’s no doubt when or where Chris Powell is! Mike Manley illustrated this part, while Chris Sotomayor (one of my favorites) colored it.
Long Way From Home is a vibrant and visually thrilling section to gaze upon. The number of aliens involved is reminiscent of a Star Wars style cantina. As is all of the action that follows, come to think of it. Andrea Di Vito (art), Le Beau Underwood (inks), and Sebastian Cheng (colors) all worked together to bring that scenario to life.
Finally, there’s Last Flight. Juanan Ramirez (art) and Erick Arciniega (colors) worked together for this one, and like the story itself, it will tug at your heartstrings. At least, it did for me. Some of the panels for this story, in particular, are breathtaking, and I would buy a print of them, given even half the chance.
Conclusion
Darkhawk: Heart of the Hawk is an issue full of highs and lows. It is very much an issue that celebrates a character that I have come to love. In many ways, I’m relieved to see what has happened within these pages. It feels like fans are finally getting a sense of closure while also having the door opened for more potential down the road. Personally? I can’t wait to see what is going to happen next in Darkhawk’s story.
Publisher: Marvel
Writer: Matthew Rosenberg
Artist: Otto Schmidt
Letterer: VC’s Joe Sabino
Released: May 20th, 2020
Rating:
Clint Barton’s slightly chaotic journey continues in Hawkeye: Freefall #5. Given who we’re talking about here, you just know that this entire issue is going to be full of great action scenes, and more than a couple of moments in which Clint will regret his decision-making process.
For those that aren’t following along (something I highly recommend, by the way); Barton, aka Hawkeye, has gotten a new scheme into his head. One that allows him to hunt down a plague in his community: The Hood. Unfortunately, the cost for this task is high, as more allies become suspicious of what he is up to, which really is just the start of his troubles.
The Plot
Where the first few issues of Hawkeye: Freefall felt almost light and comical (but not quite), this fifth issue has taken a dark turn. That isn’t to say that Clint’s humor doesn’t shine through – it absolutely does. But the stakes have finally and officially been set, and along with them? The cost of what Hawkeye is trying to do.
Honestly, I love that Matthew Rosenberg has added consequences to Barton’s actions. These series always feel more real when there’s a reaction to any plan – but especially the plans that are high right/high reward, such as this one.
There was a lot to enjoy about this issue in particular. It isn’t every day that you get to see this side of taking down a villain. Normally it’s all about the dramatic fight, and while that is sure to happen, we’re not quite there yet.
Another highlight of this issue? There’s a total mic-drop moment. Ironically, it wasn’t by Clint, but by another character in the series. Granted, I’m not sure how much longer they’ll be sticking around now. But it was such a powerful moment, I’m almost okay with the price that has been paid.
One thing I do know: I am extremely anxious to get my hands on the next issue, as I have so many questions about that ending. And about what is going to happen next.
The Art
Otto Schmidt was the lead artist behind Hawkeye: Freefall #5, as with the rest of the series so far. They’ve been doing an excellent job of bringing this entire series to life – it’s easily some of my favorite artwork out there.
The action is bold and, dare I say, fun, while the colors are vibrant, especially that iconic purple we’ve all come to expect. Together it makes for a visually compelling issue (and series), one that doesn’t pull punches.
VC’s Joe Sabino was responsible for the lettering, which means that there is a certain level of quality to expect here. Don’t worry, those expectations were not let down. I actually adore the pairing of Sabino and Schmidt, as they clearly work well together.
In Conclusion
Hawkeye: Freefall #5 was exactly what I had hoped it would be. No, I’d say it was a bit more than that. I loved the intensity, and the fact that the ante has been upped. I’ve been actively looking forward to this issue for a while now (longer than usual, thanks to the break-in comics releasing), and it was totally worth it.
Publisher: Boom! Studios
Writer: Simon Spurrier
Artist: Chris Wildgoose
Colorist: Andre May
Letterer: Jim Campbell
Released: March 18th, 2020
Rating:
Alienated #2 continues the quirky and somewhat odd adventure of three teenagers and the alien they accidentally came across in the wild. Yes, that really happened. And yes, it is exactly as entertaining as it sounds.
Now, Samir, Samantha, and Samuel are linked, both through strange mental abilities and through their discovery of Chip, the surprisingly adorable alien they’ve found. That means they have to somehow navigate high school, all while carrying more baggage than ever before.
The Plot
Simon Spurrier has really created such a unique reading experience in Alienated #2. This issue focuses mainly on Samuel’s internal monologue, but that sets the scene. It also implies what sort of format we can expect from the next issues, but that’s neither here nor there.
At the root of it, this is a high school drama infused with heavy science fiction elements. There are many classic subplots to expect from that, such as the snobby girl who thinks she’s better than everyone else, and the high school bully (and we all know how well that went for him!).
It’s a fun twist on the matter when you throw into that stereotypical mix three teenagers with access to human thought. Though really, that’s proving to only be the start of the access they actually have. It’s a bit concerning admittedly, but also really fascinating. In addition, I honestly can’t wait to see what happens next.
The Art
The artwork inside Alienated #2 is sublime. We’re talking vibrant colors, dynamic scenes full of unexpected moments, and other fun twists like that. It makes for a truly memorable series and one that stands out among the rest.
Chris Wildgoose is the lead artist, and they’re the ones responsible for how our characters look. They’re also the ones drawing Chip, a character that I find to be unbearably adorable. I personally love the design, it’s clearly alien, while not falling under any stereotypes. It, like the rest of the series, is unique.
Andre May is the colorist, and honestly, the colors are what really make this series feel so vibrant and alive. The colors veer towards the overly bright, but it works so well, especially alongside the more alien themes.
Finally, Jim Campbell is the letterer, and you won’t be surprised to hear that he did a great job. At least, I wasn’t surprised. His grasp of subtle details allowed for an unobtrusive delivery of vital information.
In Conclusion
Alienated #2 brought with it several more surprises, all while being highly entertaining. I think what I love most about this series is the fact that I honestly can’t predict what will happen next.
The series has already gone so much darker than I expected, yet it still feels so light and bubbly at the same time. It’s a fantastic mixture of elements, and I know I’ll keep coming back for more.
Quirky Cats Comics 