Past Due Reviews [3]

Marvels X #1 by Alex Ross, Jim Kreuger, Well-Bee

Synopsis (via Goodreads): David has a problem. He lives in a world of monsters that would love to devour him. He’s the last boy on Earth. The last human being on Earth. And these creatures that see him only as prey, they’re his former neighbors. He has one hope: to get to New York. To get to where Captain America and the rest of the heroes are. Alex Ross and Jim Krueger combine their abilities with artist Well-Bee to tell a very uncanny prequel to the legendary EARTH X trilogy.

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I started keeping track of my thoughts with a thread on Twitter, but decided to turn them into a post! Then I spent an hour making a graphic for A Handful of Reviews, since I stopped using Mini Reviews (they were never short, so it felt weird to call them Mini Reviews). What do you think?

The synopsis tells us that David is the last boy on Earth, but you wouldn't know that simply by reading the issue. He does say something about short people not lasting very long, and I thought he was referring to children, but it wasn't clear. I'm also not sure why the blurb says he's the last human being on Earth either... after the ending, that part is a little confusing. 

I do like David as a character, and feel like he's going to have a lot to offer the story, but he will likely travel down a dangerous path to get there. He doesn't think very highly of himself, but hopefully that will change once he realizes he's not as weak as he seems to believe. He's survived this long, right? I'm also very curious about his sister.

The story is about a virus that's taking over the world... wait... that sounds familiar... The main character already has an interesting backstory, and the author managed to be very thorough (but not overly so) in a single issue. Mrs. Tree is a fave, obvs. Overall, I thought this was an excellent start to the story, and I cannot wait to see where it goes from here. I have the second issue lined up for tonight, so fingers crossed it keeps holding my attention! (★★★★☆)

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Stranger Things: Into the Fire #1 by Jody Houser, Viktor Kalvachev, Ryan Kelly, Le Beau L. Underwood, Triona Farrell

Synopsis (via Goodreads): Years after escaping Hawkins Lab, two of Dr. Brenner's former subjects seek to live normal lives. When news reaches them that the lab was shut down, they go on a harrowing search for Nine, a powerful pyrokinetic whose shattered psyche threatens to burn them all to ashes if they can't find her and free her from her own malevolent imagination. ''I can say with certainty this book is well worth reading — it adds to the TV show in surprising and satisfying ways.'' -AiPT! A pyrokinetic Hawkins Lab subject! See the true effects of Dr. Brenner's meddling experiments.

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I haven't seen Stranger Things (although it's a show that I've been meaning to watch) but I couldn't pass up an opportunity to read something written by Houser. She wrote Amazing Spider-Man: Renew Your Vows, and it's one of my all-time favorites!

I really liked the setup for this story, but more background information would've been helpful in this first issue. Maybe more flashbacks to give me a better understanding of the characters? Honestly, I can't recall their names and I read it a few hours ago. I know one of the main characters is a twin, and she escaped a really bad experimental facility with someone else. I'm definitely interested, but it didn't grab me from the start. If you've watched the show, this issue might make more sense! (★★★☆☆)

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Star #1 by Kelly Thompson, Carmen Carnero, Javier Pina

Synopsis (via Goodreads): BORN OF THE REALITY STONE, THE BREAKOUT CHARACTER FROM CAPTAIN MARVEL FLIES SOLO! Ambitious reporter Ripley Ryan rocked New York City when she became the hero STAR, adored by everyone. But in truth she was Dr. Minerva’s attempt at a Kree-human Super-Soldier. Desperate for the strength to control her own destiny, she tried to kill Captain Marvel — and failed. Ripley was left, defeated and powerless, in the Raft...or so she thought. The Reality Stone has found her, and now no prison can hold her. You thought you knew what the Infinity Stones were capable of. Think again.

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I knew nothing about Star going into this one, but I can already tell she'll be a character that I like! Ripley isn't your standard superhero, and I was getting some pretty strong villain vibes. She's quick to anger, and then tries to inflict as much damage as possible (without considering the innocent people she'd hurt). I'm not sure how she ties into Captain Marvel, but we get a brief history of their interactions and how they've impacted what's happening now. I definitely want to know more about Ripley's past and where she came from, but I'm content with what was shared.

Thompson is an incredible writer, and one of my all-time favorites, so of course I'm reading Star. I thought the first issue was fantastic, and we see two of my favorites: Jessica Jones and Loki. I'm not sure what Loki was trying to do, or how he knew what he did, but I hope he sticks around. Stories are always more interesting when he's involved! (★★★★☆)

At the start of this issue, Ripley hadn't left her apartment for weeks, so it's already relatable! ;)

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Miles Morales: The End #1 by Saladin Ahmed, Rahzzah, Damion Scott

Synopsis (via Goodreads): THE FINAL MILES MORALES STORY! Humanity makes its last stand in the only place strong enough to survive: BROOKLYN. Former Spider-Man, Miles Morales, leads the last bastion of civilization into the future! Penned by MILES MORALES: SPIDER-MAN author SALADIN AHMED!

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I should have mentally prepared for this one. I mean, the title says The End, and the synopsis claims it's the final Miles Morales story, so I shouldn't have been so surprised, but I couldn't help hoping for the best. Miles always finds a way to survive, to make a bad situation flip in his favor, but gah. Ahmed really got me with this issue.

Miles was everything I know him to be, only older and wiser. He still cracks jokes, cares deeply about the people in his life, and is willing to give his all to make the world a better place. It was fun seeing him as an old man, and how his life had drastically changed due to MUTATED GERMS. All of my reading today has been pretty spot on with what's currently happening in the world.

I adore Miles as a character, and I love what the author has done with him (in the ongoing series and this single issue). His family is fantastically complicated, but the love is there. He has amazing friendships, and is just a really freaking awesome person. He's been through some terrible ordeals that had me sobbing, but he still fights for what's right. He's the hero everyone needs. (★★★★★)

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Jessica Jones: Blind Spot #1-4 by Kelly Thompson, Valerio Giangiordano, Mattia de Iulis

Synopsis (via Goodreads): Jessica Jones was once the costumed super hero known as Jewel. She sucked at it. Now she’s a private investigator at her own firm, Alias Investigations. She sucks less at that. With the Purple Man gone, her relationship with her husband, Luke Cage, and their daughter, Danielle, is better than ever. But her past always comes knocking, and when a woman whose case she fumbled winds up dead on her office floor, Jessica goes from private investigator to prime suspect. Can she find the real killer and clear her name? The critically acclaimed Marvel Digital Original series by Kelly Thompson and Mattia De Iulis, released for the first time as a print miniseries!

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I am loving this! I'm bummed there are only 6 issues, because this should definitely be an ongoing series. Kelly Thompson mentioned being worried about following in the footsteps of the previous writer, but this is my favorite Jessica Jones ever. I enjoyed the television series, but Thompson has really made JJ stand out in a sea of endless comics. If they decide to restart the show, they should seriously consider bringing Thompson in for some all of the writing/storytelling, because this is by far the best portrayal of Jessica Jones I've seen.

Jessica is a PI, and her job isn't all that glamourous, but I think it suits her. However, this series hasn't really focused on the work JJ does, but something that's happening to her and other powerful women in the city. It's dark, gritty, and refreshing. The story is fan-fucking-tastic, and I love Jessica's dark sense of humor. I think the author nailed her personality and amplified all of her already awesome qualities.

I also love that Thompson is fond of crossovers in her comics! Kate Bishop made an appearance (All-New Hawkeye, West Coast Avengers) along with Elsa Bloodstone who showed up in Deadpool. In Star, JJ pops up unexpectedly, and it makes me so happy to see them outside of their individual comics.

This series has seriously gotten better and better! Jessica has an entire conversation with Elsa while battling sea monsters. It was gross, but also weirdly satisfying to observe. I definitely think those two deserve their own series! If you're looking for something new to read, make sure you pick this one up! (★★★★★)

Mini Reviews [36]

Undiscovered Country #1 by Charles Soule,

Scott Snyder, Giuseppe Camuncoli & 

Daniele Orlandini (Illustrators)

Synopsis (via Goodreads): This November, New York Times bestselling writers SCOTT SNYDER (WYTCHES, A.D.: AFTER DEATH) and CHARLES SOULE (CURSE WORDS, the forthcoming novel Anyone) will team up with artists GIUSEPPE CAMUNCOLI (The Amazing Spider-Man, Darth Vader, Hellblazer) and DANIELE ORLANDINI (Darth Vader) and 2019 Eisner Award-winning colorist MATT WILSON (THE WICKED AND THE DIVINE, PAPER GIRLS) to embark on an epic adventure in the brand-new ongoing series, UNDISCOVERED COUNTRY!

In this special oversized first issue, readers will journey into the near future, and an unknown nation that was once the United States of America—a land that’s become shrouded in mystery after walling itself off from the rest of the world without explanation over thirty years ago. When a team seeking a cure for a global pandemic breaches U.S. borders, they quickly find themselves in a struggle to survive this strange and deadly lost continent!

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Even after reading the synopsis, I wasn't sure what to expect when I started Undiscovered Country. Normally, I wouldn't grab something like this on my own, but my husband was very excited when he stumbled across this series, so I decided to see if it was worth all the fuss he was making over it. Surprisingly, it is worth the fuss and fanfare. Soule and Snyder have created something utterly unique and captivating, and I cannot wait to see what they do with this story.

The United States of America hasn't been in contact with the rest of the world in over three decades, and no one knows what's been happening inside of its walls. There's even a barrier in the air that will destroy any aircraft or person that tries to breach it, which means someone from the inside has to allow access. After all these years, a team has been invited inside the walls, and what they found was... sooo unexpected. I'm still thinking about everything I saw! I thought the characters were interesting, and particularly liked the sibling aspect. I want to know more about them and how they found themselves in their current circumstances. 

The characters, world-building, and story all exceeded my expectations. If you're looking for something you've never seen before, Undiscovered Country is definitely worth picking up.

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Amazing Mary Jane #1 by Leah Williams,

Humberto Ramos & Carlos Gomez (Illustrators)

Synopsis (via Goodreads): One lucky lady just hit the jackpot with her own series — THE AMAZING MARY JANE #1 by writer Leah Williams and artist Carlos Gomez will bow this October, putting the spotlight on the love of Peter Parker's life! But if Spider-history has taught us anything, such a position is rarely a good one and usually spells trouble! In a story spinning from the pages of AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #25, Mary Jane Watson just got her big shot — but at what cost? And can she really trust anyone as she pursues her Hollywood dreams?

Mary Jane is no stranger to drama, so you can be sure that THE AMAZING MARY JANE will be offering up action, glamor, grit, and even a little sass in this new ongoing series, coming in October!

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Finally! A comic about MJ and what her life is like without Spider-Man's influence. Normally, we see her in his comics and she's developed just enough to make her relevant, but not so much that her character overshadows Peter. After all, he's Spider-Man, and she's just his classmate-friend-girlfriend-fiancé-wife (depending on the comic). However, MJ is so much more than that, and she's repeatedly proven that she can hold her own in a universe full of Powered People. 

Leah Williams is writing a few things I'm reading, and I'm still undecided on whether or not I like her writing style. I feel like she takes some liberties (which writers are allowed to do) that change the essence of very predictable characters. Take Gwenpool for instance... she's one of my favorite characters, and I'm really fond of how both Hastings and Thompson have written her in the past. Williams writes Gwenpool in a way that feels both familiar and foreign, and it's throwing me off (not in a good way).

In The Amazing Mary Jane, we get to see MJ live her life outside of Peter Parker's shadow, and it's a breath of fresh air. She's presently surrounded by various villains, and the girl's not even breaking a sweat. She taking everything in stride, and hasn't told Peter any of the dirty details surrounding her arrangement with a certain someone. I do love that Peter is still in her comic, and that he's there without being the focal point. It's an interesting perspective for sure! We'll see how it goes. 

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Canto #6 (of 6) by David Booher,

Drew Zucker (Illustrator)

Synopsis (via Goodreads): The blockbuster finale to Canto’s first epic quest is here and… there’s no place like home! Atop the Emerald Tower, Canto faces the Shrouded Man to demand his beloved’s heart. Having finally made it to the end of his journey, will Canto learn the truth behind his people’s captivity? Can he battle the Shrouded Man… and survive to return home to tell the tale?

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Canto was a mini-series that ended without really ending. I was expecting the story to conclude at the end of this issue, but a lot of nothing happens before we're told Canto's story will continue in blah blah blah. 

I felt like Canto was underdeveloped as a character, and none of the secondary characters were memorable. Honestly, I couldn't even tell you their names at this point. Someone assisted Canto in the later issues and they had a dragon-like creature, but I can't remember who they are or where they came from. Canto also has a pet that doubles as a friend (sort of). 

I grabbed this comic because I thought it would be an interesting story to read with my son, but there was nothing that separated one issue from the next. Canto goes on a journey, but it never felt like he did anything. I wish we'd seen more between Canto and the girl whose heart he wanted to retrieve/save, but there are only a few broken conversations in the darkness, which were just his memories. If he's risking his life to save someone, I want to know more about that person. 

Also, the villain is the bag guy... why?? His story didn't make sense either. He's super evil now because his own journey didn't go the way he wanted it to? So? Dude makes super evil creatures, enslaves countless others, and all because someone peed in his Cheerios? He said he was "saving" everyone, but I couldn't get behind his reasoning. Canto isn't a series I will be continuing in the future.

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Rivers of London: The Fey and the Furious #1

by Ben Aaronovitch, Andrew Cartmel, Lee

Sullivan & Paulina Vassileva (Illustrators)

Synopsis (via Goodreads): The award-winning urban fantasy series Rivers of London begins a new story of fast cars and fairy queens, from series creator Ben Aaronovitch!

When an English racecar washes up in the Netherlands, wizarding cop Peter Grant is called in to investigate its unusual cargo. Fresh from suspension, Peter infiltrates the street racing big leagues – but can he find the finish line when he’s sucked into real-life fairyland?

A canonical story, set after bestselling novel Lies Sleeping.

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Make it stop. Make it stop! MAKE IT STOP!

If I wouldn't have felt terrible for DNFing something that was maybe thirty pages (and something I spent money on), I would have stopped reading Rivers of London: The Fey and the Furious after just a few pages. The story was boring, confusing, and the characters left a lot to be desired. Needless to say, I will not be continuing this series.

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Deadpool #1 by Kelly Thompson,

Chris Bachalo (Illustrator)

Synopsis (via Goodreads): Deadpool’s newest mercenary job has him going after the King of Monsters, who has claimed a new kingdom for his monstrous subjects…on Staten Island! But you know what they say, when you come at the king, you better not miss! The Merc with a Mouth finds himself neck deep in political intrigue, monster law, and a monster hunter out for blood! It’s like The Crown but with even more swords and monsters! Can Deadpool’s smooth charisma and deft diplomacy allow him to keep his head, or will he be royally screwed?

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Deadpool! Kelly Thompson! Jeff the land shark!

I've always thought Deadpool was an interesting character, but I tend to avoid his comics because he's really gross. He can't die, so he usually gets hurt in very creative and disturbing ways. Also, there was the one time he hid on the Guardians of the Galaxy's ship, and everyone knew he was there because of how badly he smelled. He had broken himself on purpose to fit into a panel or something, and then his body odor gave him away. See? GROSS.

However, I will forever read whatever Kelly Thompson writes, and she's currently writing Deadpool. I loved both her All-New Hawkeye and West Coast Avengers series, so I'm hoping this one will be just as entertaining and creative. I really enjoyed the first issue, although the story didn't unfold how I thought it would. I started to care about one of the characters too soon, and was left feeling very angry at the end. I'm totally okay with this, because it means Thompson is a remarkable writer that makes her readers feel invested in the story and its characters, but ugh. THAT GUY. 

Mini Reviews [27]

Daredevil (#1-4) by Chip Zdarsky, 

Marco Checchetto (Illustrator), 

Julian Tedesco (Illustrator)

Synopsis (via Goodreads): KNOW FEAR.

My husband loves Daredevil. I've lost track of how many times he's re-watched the series on Netflix, but I do know it's a ridiculous number. We watched the first two seasons together, and while I enjoyed it, it wasn't something I was itching to see again. However, when I discovered Chip Zdarsky was writing the new series, I was curious. I've really liked some of his other work, and wanted to see his version of the Devil of Hell's Kitchen. 

Zdarsky didn't disappoint! I'm already weirdly addicted to this darker version of Matt Murdock and what that means for future issues. Matt has been struggling with his identity and his place in the world for a while now, and I like that the author not-so-gently pushed him over an invisible line. Matt's going to face some hard truths, and who is more honest than Frank Castle? Honestly, I'm more partial to Frank's sense of justice, and I'm not sure what that says about me. It's hard to disagree with him when Matt fights the same enemies over and over again, and Frank only fights them once.

I'm curious what role Detective North will continue to play, since he seems to have issues with both Daredevil and Fisk. Also, Daredevil's attire at the end of the fourth issue was badass, and hopefully foreshadows an ever darker version of the Devil and what he's capable of. However, I disagree with his treatment of Frank after what Castle did for him. Jerk.

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Spider-Man: Life Story (#1-2) by Chip

Zdarsky, Mark Bagley (Illustrator)

Synopsis (via Goodreads): In 1962, in AMAZING FANTASY #15, 15-year-old Peter Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider and became the Amazing Spider-Man! Fifty-seven years have passed in the real world since that event — so what would have happened if the same amount of time passed for Peter as well? A special high-end limited series that’s a part of the celebration of Marvel’s 80th anniversary, SPIDER-MAN: LIFE STORY combines the talents of Chip Zdarsky (SPECTACULAR SPIDER-MAN, MARVEL 2-IN-ONE) and Mark Bagley (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN, ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN) to tell the entire history of Spider-Man from beginning to end, set against the key events of the decades through which he lived! In this first oversized issue, when Flash Thompson is drafted to serve during the Vietnam War, Spidey must weigh the question of where his responsibility truly lies!

Clearly I'm on a Chip Zdarsky kick, and I'm totally okay with that! I've read the first two issues of Spider-Man: Life Story and really enjoyed them both. We get to see how Peter Parker would have reacted to problems over the span of a few decades. Does he join the war because he has powers and could really help, or does his involvement only perpetuate the problem? It was interesting to see Peter's moral dilemma as Spider-Man, and seeing him question himself made him even more relatable.

I've always liked Spider-Man, and I hate that his life has always been so hard and full of heartache. He's trying to live his life as Peter Parker, but also save people as Spider-Man, and sometimes one negatively impacts the other. I hate that happiness doesn't seem to last long for Peter, and Zdarsky makes that very apparent at the end of the second issue (this author likes to write dirty). Give Peter some love, Chip! You know he deserves it.

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Miles Morales: Spider-Man (#1-5) by

Saladin Ahmed, Javier Garron Illustrator),

Brian Stelfreeze (Illustrator)

Synopsis (via Goodreads): Balancing his normal life, school, parents, etc…and super-heroing has never been easy, but when the Rhino and a cadre of mysterious criminals start plaguing Brooklyn, things take a dark turn. And Miles doesn’t even know the half of it yet. Eisner Award-winner Saladin Ahmed (BLACK BOLT) and Young Gun Javier Garrón (ANT-MAN & THE WASP) bring you the latest incarnation of the coolest character in the Marvel Universe!

Saladin Ahmed is a new favorite! His writing is phenomenal, and he's made Miles Morales completely relatable. He even manages to address real world problems within the comic, and it makes you really think about the world we live in. I know some people like to read to escape, but Ahmed makes it clear that you cannot avoid the hard realities happening all around us.

Miles is an amazing character that's dealing with school, friends, and even a love interest. He also has two parents that love and accept him and his secrets. They just want him to be happy and responsible. I like that they're being supportive, even though their child is constantly putting himself in danger. He's Spider-Man, and that isn't an easy life to live. Also, Miles may be a different version of Spider-Man, but they're both sarcastic and like to be witty when fighting bad guys.

Miles is your typical teenager, but with superpowers, so it's interesting to see how he chooses to handle problems. I really love everything they're doing with this comic and cannot wait to see what happens next!

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West Coast Avengers #10 by Kelly Thompson,

Gang Hyuk Lim (Illustrator), 

Moy R (Illustrator) *FT

Synopsis (via Goodreads): THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE BEAUTIFUL CONCLUDES! HAWKEYE and HAWKEYE lead the fight to save AMERICA CHAVEZ from a cult that believes she’s their prophesized chosen one who will lead them into the light — and also into victory — as they attempt a takeover of Los Angeles. But just as things look darkest, the team is joined by a mysterious and powerful new ally. Amid flying arrows and punching fists, relationships are both blossoming and being torn apart — what does it all mean for the future of the West Coast Avengers?!

Kelly Thompson is a goddess with brilliant ideas, and she knows how to tell a story. She weaves little threads that connect throughout a series, and now we'll never know what was going to happen with this one! I have so many questions about Kate's parents and Ramona's heritage. I wanted to see the relationships flourish or run their course. Despite the comic's untimely end, Thompson managed to leave this one on a high note with all the sarcasm and charm that I've come to love from these characters.

West Coast Avengers has been one of my all-time favorites, so I'm super bummed it was cancelled just like Thompson's All-New Hawkeye. Even though All-New Hawkeye ended in a positive place, there were still a lot of unanswered questions. However, the author managed to tie those loose ends into this new series, and things were going fantastically well! The team was growing, they had a place to call their own, and the characters were diverse and perfect. Gwenpool was back and as crazy as ever, both Hawkeyes were in this one (hell yes), and America was a fierce force to be reckoned with. I loved her relationship with Ramona. There were even siblings on the team! Seriously, this one had everything I wanted and I hate that it ended so soon after it started. Also, Jeff fighting vampires was the best! He was absolutely perfect for Gwen (and so was someone else...)!

The current arc was wrapped up, but it's clear Kate and crew had more adventures to go on. I look forward to seeing what Thompson does next, and I'll keep my fingers crossed that West Coast Avengers is brought back in the future (preferably the near future).

West Coast Avengers (#1) by Kelly Thompson

West Coast Avengers #1

by Kelly Thompson,

Stefano Caselli (Illustrator)

Synopsis (via Goodreads): A NEW ERA DAWNS…AVENGERS ASSEMBLE! HAWKEYE (KATE BISHOP). HAWKEYE (CLINT BARTON). A guy named FUSE. Never have they ever been called “the big three” of...anything. And now here they are, reunited for, okay, well, it’s only the second time ever. Thank god they also brought AMERICA CHAVEZ, GWENPOOL and KID OMEGA. Wait. What? That’s right, it’s the new West Coast Avengers, son. And you better hope they can figure out how to save the world because BIG things are headed for the West Coast.

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Yes! A million times -- yes! I was really bummed when All-New Hawkeye and Gwenpool ended, but now they're in the same comic! Then there's the other Hawkeye (Clint), Fuse (he was from the old Kate Bishop comic and her current boyfriend), America (she's fucking awesome), and Quentin (total douche canoe).

America is a character after my own heart! I can't believe this is the first time I've read anything with her in it, because I can totally relate to her personality. She has a punch-first-ask-questions-later vibe, and I love it. She's also incredibly strong, can fly, and can smash open star-shaped portals that allow her to travel all over the multiverse. 

I'm really excited about the rivalry between Gwenpool and Quentin (Kid Omega). She's already tried to blow him up once, and managed to play the best practical joke! It was totally deserved, and the comic somehow made "moist" an onomatopoeia that popped up when he touched something (so gross). If Gwenpool does manage to injure him a little, I don't think anyone would be disappointed. 

Fuse and Hawkeye (Kate) are adorable together, and I'm curious how their relationship with play out within the comic. It's relatively new, and they're already going to be under a microscope. The first issue had random interviews thrown in, because apparently a reality TV show is going to be funding this new group. They don't specify what the footage we'll be used for, but I'm sure it'll be interesting. 

Hawkeye is my jam, whether it's Kate or Clint, because they're the best. They're hilarious and both genuinely good people. They don't have superpowers, but they manage to save the world with their superior wit and skills. Kate might be slightly more intelligent, but Hawkeye's down for a good time. He mentioned being on their team part-time, so I don't know how much he'll actually be around. I love having two Hawkeyes, so hopefully a lot!

If you don't read comics, West Coast Avengers is a fantastic reason to start! I've enjoyed Kelly Thompson's work in the past (All-New Hawkeye, Rogue & Gambit), but I think this is going to be my favorite. She's also writing a new Nancy Drew and I think a Jessica Jones, so be sure to check out her work! If you do read comics, go to your LCS and have this added to your monthly pull list -- you won't regret it! 

Final Thoughts [4] Rogue & Gambit (#1-5) by Kelly Thompson

Rogue & Gambit (#1-5) by Kelly Thompson, Pere Pérez (Illustrator), Kris Anka (Illustrator) 

Synopsis (via Goodreads): Everybody's favorite X-couple is reunited! And boy, are they not happy about that… Kitty Pryde must send Rogue and Gambit on an undercover mission to find a group of kidnapped mutants. What they discover on this mission will shock them. But will it also bring them closer together…? It's a high-stakes adventure caper that only the two hottest X-Men can deliver! 

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I loved Kelly Thompson's take on Hawkeye (Kate Bishop), so I was thrilled when I saw she would also be writing Rogue & Gambit! I don't think these two get enough attention, and Thompson manages to cram a lot of their past and present into 5 issues. I actually learned a lot of new things about these two. They have a complicated history, but their love is fierce even when they're not together (or Rogue is smooching with Deadpool--ugh).

I would say this comic is romance with a twist! Rogue and Gambit go on a couple's retreat, but it's also their mission. Something hanky has been going on, so they're sent to figure out what it is. They were the best candidates, because their relationship was actually suffering. They needed outside assistance, but they had no idea what would happen once they arrived and started snooping around.

If you're looking for something short and engaging--this is it! These two are so much fun to read about, and you cannot help but fall in love with them, too. Their secret mission was unexpected, and I would love to know more about the baddie (don't want to be spoilery!) and their past. These are also some of my favorite illustrations, both inside and out. I honestly don't think I could pick a favorite cover... maybe #3... but just because we get to see a lot of the previous versions of Rogue and Gambit.

Final Thoughts [1] Hawkeye (#16) by Kelly Thompson & The Unbelievable Gwenpool (#25) by Christopher Hastings

 

Hawkeye #16 by Kelly Thompson

Leonardo Romero (Illustrator)

Julian Tedesco (Illustrator)

I picked up Hawkeye on a whim when I stumbled across the first few issues at a Half Price Books. They looked interesting, and I've always liked Hawkeye, so... I fell in love. Kate Bishop is an incredible Hawkeye. She's clever, silly, and I frequently found myself laughing at the things she said and did.

Jessica Jones made an appearance for a few issues. Kate is a Private Investigator (or trying to be), and JJ offered to show her the ropes (prior to the comic starting). She pops in for a visit with a little business on the side, and I really enjoyed the banter between the two.

Hawkeye (Clint Barton) shows up at the end, and it's like seeing your brother and best friend for the first time in forever. They have an easy relationship, and they just understand each other. Watching two Hawkeyes fight baddies was so much fun!

I cannot believe this is ending so soon, but the final page said she (Kate Bishop) would return in August, so we'll see! It could mean a lot of things: a new arc, a new writer, etc. This one left something major unresolved (not really a cliffhanger per se...), so there is plenty to build on. I hope they do! I would like to know what happens with a certain something. Read my review of the first few issues here.

♡

Gwenpool #25 by Christopher Hastings

Gurihiru (Illustrator)

When we decided to start getting comics every month, Gwenpool was my first choice. I actually knew very little about her (other than the basics), but thought it would be fun to read. I grabbed the issues I could find, and my LCS helped me find the rest (the comic had been running for awhile, so sometimes it's hard to find the first few issues).

I binge-read the first ten and knew this was the perfect comic for me! Gwen is stabby, insane, and the best friend you could have. She actually tried to teach herself how to fight with swords by searching the internet, and a lot of her battles were only won because some unforeseen accident happened. Luck seemed to play a big part in her comic book experience. 

Gwen has a mysterious past, and she willingly chose to insert herself into the Marvel Universe. She grew up reading comics, and eventually found herself living in one. She knew everything about everyone, which caused problems for her a few times. She didn't always get scared, because she was able to use this "other" knowledge to her advantage. It was like a super power (almost).

The Unbelievable Gwenpool offers a unique perspective to the MCU, and her presence will be sorely missed. Gwenpool always has something else to say, even if you don't want to hear it. She's very in-your-face and constantly surprised me. She could be terrified one second, but giggling about it the next. She didn't rely on her prior knowledge too much, but tried to fend for herself and help her friends.

Another thing I loved about The Unbelievable Gwenpool was the other characters. We get to see so many different superheroes, and a few of them play significant roles in her personal story. Dr. Strange, Deadpool, Thor (Jane Foster), and a lot of others. It was interesting to see how they looked outside of their own comics.

It was so weird to read about a character that knew we were reading about her, and also that this was her final issue. It was twisty, unpredictable, and perfectly Gwenpool. I'm pretty sure every version of Spider-Man made an appearance. Gwenpool wrapped things up with a bittersweet conclusion, but hopefully not a permanent one. Read my review of the first few issues here.

Generations (#1-10)

I haven't done a My Weekly Pull post in a few weeks--sorry about that! However, I have been reading a lot of different comic books. I really, really like that Marvel did a Generations series. It highlights some of the more popular heroes and the new generation they inspired.

My favorite two issues were Hawkeye and All-New Wolverine. The others were interesting and enjoyable, but I didn't feel as invested in those characters. That's the great thing about comics, though--there's something for everyone. If you're undecided on what comics to read, try a few of the Generations issues to see if anything intrigues you.

Generations: Banner Hulk & The Totally Awesome Hulk #1 (Generations #1) 

by Greg Pak, Matteo Buffagni (Illustrator) 

Generations: Phoenix & Jean Grey #1 (Generations #2) 

by Cullen Bunn, R.B. Silva (Illustrator),

Stephanie Hans (Illustrator) 

Generations: Wolverine & All-New Wolverine #1 (Generations #3) 

by Tom Taylor, Ramon Rosanas (Illustrator), Jorge Molina (Illustrator) 

Generations: The Unworthy Thor & The Mighty Thor #1 (Generations #4) 

by Jason Aaron, Mahmud Asrar (Illustrator) 

Generations: Hawkeye & Hawkeye #1 (Generations #5) 

by Kelly Thompson, Stefano Raffaele (Illustrator), Greg Smallwood (Illustrator) 

Generations: Iron Man & Ironheart #1 (Generations #6) 

by Brian Michael Bendis, Marco Rudy (Illustrator) 

Generations: Captain Marvel & Captain Mar-Vell #1 (Generations #7) 

by Margaret Stohl, David Nakayama (Illustrator), Brent Schoonover (Illustrator) 

Generations: Ms. Marvel & Ms. Marvel #1 (Generations #8) 

by G. Willow Wilson, Paolo Villanelli (Illustrator), Nelson Blake II (Illustrator) 

Generations: Miles Morales Spider-Man & Peter Parker Spider-Man #1 (Generations #9) 

by Brian Michael Bendis (Illustrator), Ramón Pérez (Illustrator) 

Generations: Sam Wilson Captain America & Steve Rogers Captain America #1 (Generations #10) by Nick Spencer, Paul Renaud (Illustrator)

Hawkeye: Kate Bishop (#1-11) by Kelly Thompson

Hawkeye: Kate Bishop (#1-11) by Kelly Thompson, Leonardo Romero (Illustrator), Julian Tedesco (Illustrator)

Synopsis (via Goodreads): Remember Hawkeye? No not that Hawkeye, our favorite Hawkeye, the chick who puts the hawk in Hawkeye, the butt-kicking hero who had to save the other Hawkeye's butt all the time. Yup, you know her, it's the dazzling Kate Bishop making her solo comics debut! Kate is heading west and returning to Los Angeles, with her bow and arrow and P.I. badge in tow. There are crimes to solve and she's the best archer to handle ‘em! The City of Angels has a new guardian angel. The talented duo of Kelly Thompson (A-Force, Jem) and Leonardo Romero (Squadron Supreme, Doctor Strange) bring you a Kate Bishop like you've never seen her before, in a brand-new ongoing series that really hits the mark!

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While I wasn't a huge fan of the cover art in the beginning, it has started to grow on me. It's also not reflective of the inside art, which I do enjoy. They're both uniquely interesting, and I feel they capture the essence of the story each issue.

I also like that there isn't just one foe for Kate Bishop to battle, but many. There are a lot of side stories, and they all seem to (somewhat) tie into this unforeseen evil lurking in the shadows. She makes a few friends in the beginning, and I love how diverse and devoted they are to her. They accept her as she is, crazy sass and all. They're also there for her whether she wants them to be or not.

Kate is dealing with inner demons as well as physical ones. Her father plays a key role in who she is today, but probably not in the way you would expect. Her mother is still a mystery waiting to be solved, and she mentions a sister I haven't seen yet. Clint Barton is like a brother/mentor, but he has been absent from her story as well. Jessica Jones made an appearance for a few issues, which resulted in a lot of black boxes obscuring her words.

I love Kate's voice and quirky comments. She accepts who she is, and she really seems to love the life she has made for herself. She doesn't doubt her abilities, and knows just how good she is. She also never turns away someone that needs help, even when she obviously has issues that she needs to work out for herself. The needs of others always come before her own.

If you're looking for a comic with a hilarious, strong female lead--look no further! Kate Bishop is the Hawkeye you need in your life. The real Hawkeye, or so she would tell you.