Tag: DC Comics Graphic Novel

Bad Dream: A Dreamer Story by Nicole Maines and Illustrated by Rye Hickman Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A young woman facing a destiny that was never hers must learn to accept herself to save those she loves in author Nicole Maines’s “Bad Dream: A Dreamer Story.”

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The Synopsis

Dreamer’s origin story has finally arrived, featuring characters from Galaxy: The Prettiest Star in DC’s first YA crossover!!

Nia Nal’s spent her whole life taking a back seat to her older sister, Maeve, who’s expected to inherit their mother’s Naltorian powers—the ability to see the future through dreams. But when Nia starts having visions of the future, she must suppress her powers to protect her relationship with her sister. There’s only one problem: Nia can’t stay awake forever…

From actress, activist, and writer Nicole Maines, who originated the role of Dreamer—the first trans superhero on TV—and artist Rye Hickman comes the highly anticipated origin story of a girl who must accept her destiny to discover she’s more powerful than she could ever dream of.

The Review

Of all the characters that have been introduced into DC Comics in recent years, my two favorites have been Jon Kent’s Superman and Dreamer. Between author and actress Nicole Maines stellar performance on the acclaimed television series Supergirl as the titular hero Dreamer, or the hero’s introduction into mainstream DC Comics, Nia Nal’s rise to heroism and the complexity of her character arc, she is one of the best characters to arrive in the modern DC Comics age and a great representation of the direction comics needs to be taking. Seeing a cosmic, spiritual, and thought-provoking narrative from the actress who brought the character to life and breathed fresh life into the world of DC Comics made this graphic novel so special.

The crossover and connection shared with newcomer Galaxy, another new DC Comics hero, and the balance the author found with both action and storytelling was incredible. The vibrant colors and bright artwork from Rye Hickman were sensational, and the depth of mythos the author explored in Dreamer’s backstory helped elevate what fans knew of the character from her time on Supergirl and took it to a whole new level. The twists and turns in the story also helped elevate the LGBTQ+ themes, providing a much-needed exploration of the power of identity and acceptance, as well as facing the challenges of the ignorance many people have towards the transgender community, especially.

The Verdict

Compelling, entertaining, and brilliantly written, “Bad Dream: A Dreamer Story” by author Nicole Maines and artist Rye Hickman is a must-read DC Comics graphic novel. The twists and turns of the narrative, the beautiful illustrations, and the vital messaging behind this remarkable origin story solidified why Nicole Maines is not only an emerging voice in the comics world but a much-needed voice that is powerful and invokes great emotion and thought in every piece she brings to life, and Dreamer is the perfect hero to represent that. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Nicole Maines is an actress, activist, and writer paving the way for LGBTQ+ youth on and off the screen. Maines’s breakout role came on The CW’s Supergirl, where she starred as Nia Nal, a.k.a. Dreamer, making her TV’s first transgender Super Hero. She wrote Dreamer’s comic book debut in DC’s 2021 Pride anthology and has since gone on to pen numerous other comics for DC, including Superman: Son of Kal-El #13 with Tom Taylor, Lazarus Planet: Assault on Krypton #1, Harley Quinn, and DC’s upcoming Dreamer YA graphic novel. Maines has been nominated for a GLAAD Media Award and was a Variety Power of Young Hollywood and Power of Pride honoree. She was also a 2020 Human Rights Campaign Upstander Award honoree for her activism and continues to be a tireless champion for trans rights. Her biography, Becoming Nicole: The Transformation of an American Family, was a Stonewall Honor Book in nonfiction, a finalist for the Lambda Literary Award for transgender nonfiction, and a New York Times bestseller.

https://www.instagram.com/nicoleamaines

Rye Hickman (previously published as Jen Hickman) is a visual storyteller based out of Denver. Past work includes The Harrowing, Bad Dream, Buzzing, and more. They get really excited about dystopian fiction, good coffee, and drawing hands.

https://ryehickman.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ryehickmandraws

This Land is Our Land: A Blue Beetle Story by Julio Anta and Artist Jacoby Salcedo Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A teenager must fight to protect humanity and his community in author Julio Anta’s “This Land is Our Land: A Blue Beetle Story.”

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The Synopsis

Writer Julio Anta and artist Jacoby Salcedo, the dynamic team behind the young adult graphic novel Frontera, take readers on a gripping and inspiring journey filled with high stakes and heart as Jaime embraces his new calling as Blue Beetle!Jaime Reyes is an ordinary high school student in El Paso, Texas, with a deep love for his family, culture, and home, and loves nothing more than his neighborhood’s spontaneous gatherings that go late into the night. But lately, he’s begun to realize that he and his border community are being used as pawns in an increasingly toxic immigration debate. The last few months have seen armed troops deployed along the U.S. and Mexico border, manufactured crackdowns at official border crossings, and a mounting resentment among a group of disaffected and reactionary youth.Jaime’s problems get even more complicated when he finds an odd bug-like artifact while stargazing. He starts feeling a little different—like there’s another voice in his head pushing him toward his most base instincts. And to make matters worse, he’s been having surreal dreams that show him that the true threat El Paso faces isn’t “illegal aliens” but actual aliens known as the Reach. In fact, according to his dreams, Jaime is meant to pave the way for the Reach’s impending invasion!

The Review

This was such a powerful and inspiring read. The earthy tones of the artist’s work allowed the narrative to shine brightly in this graphic novel and were a great juxtaposition to the vibrant blues associated with Blue Beetle and the cosmos as a whole. The action and the way the writer explored the origins of both Jamie Reyes and the Reach/Blue Beetle felt both fresh and original, and a significant expansion on the lore from DC Comics as a whole. 

Yet at its core, this story was both socially relevant and morally impactful. The horrific actions the people of the United States are witnessing with immigration rights and the actions taken by ICE have not only dominated newswires for the last few months, but have elevated tensions and created more fear and uncertainty than ever before. This story not only touches on these fears and showcases the harm that it causes, but also shows a path of unity and commitment to a more open, heartfelt, and understanding path that celebrates our differing cultures and how much stronger our nation is together than it is torn apart. Themes of identity, social justice, and family all converge effortlessly, lending this sci-fi epic a sense of groundedness and connection to our world.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, enduring, and compelling, author Julio Anta’s “This Land is Our Land: A Blue Beetle Story” is a must-read graphic novel. A great DC Comics graphic novel, both Anta’s writing and Jacoby Salcedo’s artwork mesh seamlessly and help tell an essential story of identity that will stay with readers long after the book ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Julio Anta is the author of many graphic novels and comic books for young readers and adults including Frontera, his young adult debut illustrated by frequent collaborator Jacoby Salcedo, and Sí, Se Puede: The Latino Heroes Who Changed the United States, a non-fiction graphic novel illustrated by Yasmín Flores Montañez.

Julio was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and currently resides in New York City where he works to tell narratively rich stories about a diverse range of Latinx characters for readers of all ages. Forthcoming work includes a slate of graphic novels for HarperAlley, Random House Graphic, First Second and DC Comics.

https://www.julioanta.com/

Jacoby Salcedo, is a comic book illustrator who is based in Olympia, Washington. He is the co-creator of the Harper Collins YA graphic novel, FRONTERA with frequent collaborator, Julio Anta. He is also the artist on Dark Horse mini-series, IT’S ONLY TEENAGE WASTELAND with writer Curt Pires. Jacoby has been featured in multiple comic anthologies such as DC’s Legion of Bloom, Panel X Panel, Graphic Mundi’s Covid Chronicles, and the GLAAD award winning Young Men in Love. His next project is THIS LAND IS OUR LAND: A BLUE BEETLE STORY, from DC with Julio releasing October 2024.

https://www.jacobysalcedoart.com/

Barda by Ngozi Ukazu Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A fierce warrior on a hellish planet discovers the possibility of hope and love in author Ngozi Ukazu’s “Barda” from DC Comics.

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The Synopsis

Join New York Times bestselling writer-artist Ngozi Ukazu (Check, Please!) as she takes readers on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery, deep friendships, and first loves!Darkseid is…and life on Apokolips is tough—but then, it is hell, after all. And no one knows this better than Barda, Granny Goodness’s right-hand warrior. But Barda has a secret…she is in love. Or she is drawn to the idea of it, anyway, whether it be the beauty of a flower; her affection for her closest friend, Aurelie; or the mysterious and fierce enemy warrior Orion, who isthe only match for Barda’s strength.When Granny decides Barda is becoming too soft, she assigns Barda a task that might be more than she can handle—to break the seemingly unbreakable Scott Free. And as Barda questions why Scott has such hope and what he might have done to provoke such hatred from Granny, she finds herself drawn to him in a way she never expected.The only thing is, we do not speak of love on Apokolips…

The Review

As a longtime fan of DC Comics, getting to see a story centered around Barda was fantastic. The lore behind Apokolips and its ruler, Darkseid, is intricately woven into the fabric of DC Comics, and seeing life on the planet and how Darkseid is both feared and revered by its citizens and servants come to life on the page was chilling. The muted tones of the artwork did an excellent job of capturing the gritty, darker tone and atmosphere of Apokolips. At the same time, the brighter moments on other worlds and between Barda and Scott served as a firm reminder of the glimmers of hope that emerged as a defining aspect of Barda’s character.

The heart of this graphic novel lies in the character development and themes, particularly the idea of hope in a hopeless place. The evolution of Barda, from a fierce warrior and leader of the Furies to a strong soldier who experiences love and kindness for the first time in her life, made this a compelling narrative to get lost in. The duality of Barda as a character, embracing both her fierce strength and her growing love, not only serves as a bridge between her people and the New Gods on New Genesis, but also as a vivid example of both leadership and heroism in the face of fascism. Her love and heart, as well as the inspiration Scott Free brings to life, made the theme of hope so powerful in this story.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, memorable, and entertaining, author Ngoni Ukase’s “Barda” is a must-read graphic novel and a great deep dive into an excellent DC Comics character. The mythos surrounding the New Gods, Darkseid, and Apokolips was greatly expanded upon, and the twists and turns in the narrative help elevate the emotional and hopeful tones of the story as a whole. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Ngozi Ukazu is a DC Comics artist, New York Times-bestselling graphic novelist, and the creator of comics like Check, Please!, BUNT!, and the forthcoming graphic novel FLIP. She graduated from Yale University with a degree in Computing in the Arts, and since 2020 her cartoons have appeared in The New Yorker.

https://www.ngoziu.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ngoziu

Batman: One Bad Day: Catwoman #1 by G. Willow Wilson Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author G. Willow Wilson and artist Jamie McKelvie share a unique and captivating story of Selina Kyle that showcases a key part of her past and a haunting new villain in the book Batman: One Bad Day: Catwoman #1.

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The Synopsis

Selina Kyle, a.k.a. Catwoman, is the greatest thief that Gotham City has ever seen. She’s effortlessly stolen countless items of immense value over the years and successfully evaded the GCPD and Batman. But when Catwoman finds out an item from her past is being sold for way more than it used to be worth, it sends Catwoman into a spiral, and she’ll do everything in her power to steal it back. Batman tries to stop her before she goes too far, and a mysterious figure known as the Forger will change Catwoman’s life forever. The all-star creative team of G. WILLOW WILSON (Poison Ivy, Ms. Marvel) and JAMIE McKELVIE (The Wicked & The Divine, Young Avengers) unite for this epic story!

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The Review

This was such a compelling read. Author G. Willow Wilson has written for some of my favorite comic book characters, from Poison Ivy and Wonder Woman to even helping craft the Ms. Marvel series for Marvel Comics. So I knew going into this that the story was going to have a truly complex and heartfelt narrative driving this equally complex character. Catwoman has always been so fascinating, as she walks the fine line between villain and anti-hero. The beautiful illustrations and the melding of bright lights against a dark and gritty background made this story so superb to behold.

To me, the heart of this narrative came in Catwoman’s backstory and the emotional connection she made with the characters in this story. The story honed in on one of her and her sister’s earliest memories involving their mother, and the path that took her on not only forced her to look back at her life and the decisions she’s made but on the impact her own actions have had on those around her. The chemistry between her and Batman was on full display, and the understanding between the two of them was phenomenal to watch unfold. 

The Verdict

Captivating, entertaining, and thoughtfully written, author G. Willow Wilson and artist Jamie McKelvie’s “Batman: One Bad Day: Catwoman #1” is a must-read DC Comics graphic novel and an essential read for all Catwoman and Batman fans! The twists in the narrative, the mysterious new villain, and the heated chemistry between the Bat and the Cat, along with the emotional relationship between Catwoman and her sister, made this a must-read graphic novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

G. Willow Wilson is the author of the acclaimed novel THE BIRD KING (2019), co-creator of the Hugo and American Book Award-winning series MS MARVEL (2013-2018), and has written for some of the world’s best-known superhero comic book series, including THE X-MEN, SUPERMAN and WONDER WOMAN. Her first novel, ALIF THE UNSEEN, won the 2013 World Fantasy Award for Best Novel, was a finalist for the Center For Fiction’s First Novel Prize, and was long-listed for the 2013 Women’s Prize for Fiction. In 2015, she won the Graphic Literature Innovator Prize at the PEN America Literary Awards. Her work has been translated into over a dozen languages. She lives in Seattle.

https://www.gwillowwilson.com/

Jamie McKelvie is an artist and writer from the United Kingdom. 

He’s best known for his creator-owned comic series THE WICKED + THE DIVINE and PHONOGRAM, both with writer Kieron Gillen. He has worked for Marvel doing character designs for CAPTAIN MARVEL and MS MARVEL among others. He wrote the CAPTAIN CARTER series for Marvel and did the art for CATWOMAN: ONE BAD DAY with writer G. Willow Wilson for DC. He also designed the Armored Advanced Suit for the SPIDER-MAN PS4/PS5 video game.

Jamie’s produced artwork for bands such as CHVRCHES, ART BRUT, and TEGAN & SARA. He co-directed the video for the CHVRCHES song Bury It with Darren Price and the animation studio Mighty Nice.

He’s currently working on Kickstarter exclusive issues of The Expanse: Dragon’s Tooth, a 12-issue series from Boom! by Andy Diggle and various artists and his own creator-owned projects for DSTLRY.

https://www.jamiemckelvie.fyi/

Clark & Lex by Brendan Reichs (Illustrated by Jerry Gaylord) Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young Clark Kent still coming to terms with his place in the world and focused on using his powers to his benefit meets a young Lex Luthor as they are thrust into a competition that quickly becomes more than it appears in author Brendan Reichs’s “Clark & Lex”.

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The Synopsis

Being the only kid with powers is tough…not being able to use them is even worse!

Struggling with understanding why his parents demand he hide his amazing superpowers, Clark has no problem using a bit of super-speed or super-strength to give himself that extra edge as quarterback of the football team or while doing his chores around the farm.

And when LuthorCorp holds a competition to find the best and brightest for a summer internship in Metropolis, Clark has no problem using his X-ray vision to cheat his way in if it means getting out of Smallville. Amazingly, Clark is not the only competitor with special abilities…just ask his newfound friend, Lex Luthor.

But as the kids go missing one-by-one, the boys realize the competition may not be all it seems. Can Clark put aside his pride for the sake of the team, and become the friend and leader they will need to overcome LuthorCorp’s ambitions?

From New York Times bestselling author Brendan Reichs and artist Jerry Gaylord comes a fresh twist to a familiar face that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!

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The Review

This was a fun and engaging read. The balance the author struck between life-lesson storytelling and DC Comics lore was remarkable to see play out on the page, as the author and illustrator used Clark Kent’s journey to show how he evolved into the hero we know him to be today, rather than the selfish or driven young man that he begins the story as. 

The almost animated television style of artwork that the illustrator brought to life on the page and the captivating origin story of one of DC Comics’ greatest rivalries made this a stand-out publication for DC Comics. The exploration of Clark and Lex’s childhood friendship and how it would inevitably lead to the deterioration of their relationship and their turn from children to hero and villain respectfully was so well done and elevated perfectly. The way the author drew attention to things like DC Comics’s Crisis events, or the multiverse as a whole, made this story stand out as a potential multiversal story that fans won’t be able to put down.

The Verdict

Creative, memorable, and heartfelt, author Brendan Reichs and illustrator Jerry Gaylord’s “Clark & Lex” is a must-read graphic novel for middle school-aged kids and DC Comics fans alike. The unique inclusion of diversity in the cast of characters, even with the slight change to Clark’s Earth parents Jonathan and Martha Kent, and the rich story-driven book will keep readers eager for more. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Brendan Reichs was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. He graduated from Wake Forest University in 2000, The George Washington University School of Law in 2006, and Vermont College of Fine Arts in 2018. After three long years working as a litigation attorney, he abandoned the trade to write full time. He lives in Charlotte with his son, daughter, and a herd of animals that tear up everything.

http://www.brendanreichs.com

About the Illustrator

Jerry Gaylord has been a Superman fan all his life, with the cartoons, movies, and comics inspiring him to become an artist and pursue a career as a storyteller. Originally from Oxon Hill, MD, Jerry began his career in comics with Boom! Studios and was nominated for a Harvey Award for his work on Fanboys vs Zombies. He has worked with IDW, Archie Comics, and independent publishers, and exhibits at conventions all over the country. After getting his first shot at storyboarding on Disney XD’s Ultimate Spider-Man, Jerry moved to LA to start a full-time career in animation, where he is living the cowabunga lifestyle with his amazing and talented wife, Penelope, and their puppy Adora. He has worked with Warner Bros. Animation, Blizzard Entertainment, and Marvel Studios on the Disney+ series X-Men 97. When Jerry isn’t spending time with his family, he still saves just a little time to draw for fun.

https://thefranchizelive.wixsite.com/portfolio

Girl Taking Over: A Lois Lane Story by Sarah Kuhn Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A small-town teenage Lois Lane must navigate the big city and face setback after setback as she pursues her dreams of journalistic glory in author Sarah Kuhn’s “Girl Taking Over: A Lois Lane Story”.

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The Synopsis

Can Lois Lane open herself up to friendship, romance, and being vulnerable in order to get the future that’s right for her?  She might have to change her entire life plan to find out.

Ambitious small town girl Lois Lane tackles a summer in the big city with gusto, but a cavalcade of setbacks—including an annoying frenemy roommate, a beyond tedious internship at a suddenly corporatized website, and a boss who demotes her to coffee-fetching minion—threatens to derail her extremely detailed life plan. And, you know, her entire future.

When Lois uncovers a potentially explosive scandal, she must team up with the last person she’d expect to publish her own website for young women. And as Lois discovers who she really is and what she actually wants, she becomes embroiled in her own scandal that could destroy everything she’s worked so hard to create.

From beloved author, Sarah Kuhn (Shadow of the Batgirl, Heroine Complex), and with expressive and lively art by Arielle Jovellanos, comes a charming YA story about the strength it takes to embrace the messiness of life.

BookBaby's Complete Self-Publishing Package includes eBooks, Printed Books and more - everything you need for your book launch!

The Review

As a lifelong fan of Lois Lane, I loved this new take on the iconic character from DC Comics. The way the author was able to incorporate elements of DC lore and characters into the narrative without making this a typical superhero-driven story was great to see, as it allowed Lois and the cast of characters to shine in their own light. The book had a great balance of both character and narrative development, giving readers equal time to enjoy this modern take on this small corner of the DC Universe while also giving time for these characters to shine.

To me, the heart of this story rested in the retconned character development and the important themes the narrative brought to life. Lois Lane became the perfect character to voice these themes, having been a longtime icon of journalistic integrity and a voice for the truth in DC Comics. The emphasis on issues such as racism, sexism, and the complications of modern friendships in different cultures made this story flow smoothly, while the new take on Lois as an Asian-American young woman just starting out on her path to becoming a journalist allowed both her character to grow and the importance of her Asian culture to shine through in this brilliant story. Combined with the warm and creative artwork of Arielle Jovellanos made this a captivating graphic novel.

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The Verdict

Memorable, iconic, and entertaining, author Sarah Kuhn and illustrator Arielle Jovelianos’s “Girl Taking Over: A Lois Lane Story” is a must-read graphic novel of 2023 and one of my contenders for the top graphic novel of the year. The heartfelt commentary on the battle between overall acceptance in our society versus the “anti-woke” proponents and the overall message to give people the voice to speak their truth made this a captivating and thoughtful DC Comics graphic novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Sarah Kuhn is the author of Heroine Complex—the first in a series starring Asian American superheroines—for DAW Books. She also wrote The Ruby Equation for the comics anthology Fresh Romance and the romantic comedy novella One Con Glory, which earned praise from io9 and USA Today and is in development as a feature film. Her articles and essays on such topics as geek girl culture, comic book continuity, and Sailor Moon cosplay have appeared in Uncanny Magazine, Apex Magazine, AngryAsianMan.com, IGN.com, Back Stage, The Hollywood Reporter, StarTrek.com, Creative Screenwriting, and the Hugo-nominated anthology Chicks Dig Comics. In 2011, she was selected as a finalist for the CAPE (Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment) New Writers Award.

http://www.heroinecomplex.com/

Arielle Jovellanos is a Filipina-American illustrator, writer & comic artist who specializes in narrative illustrations with an eye for character interaction and cute clothing. Her most recent projects include Black Star, an original sci-fi graphic novel written by Eric Anthony Glover for Abrams Megascope, and Evil Thing: A Villains Graphic Novel (Disney-Hyperion) adapted from Serena Valentino’s bestselling Cruella De Vil novel. Her work has also been featured in the Eisner & Harvey nominated anthology Fresh Romance and in magazines, comics, books, and branded social media campaigns. She is currently adjunct faculty in the illustration department at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

https://www.arielle-jovellanos.com/

The Nice House on the Lake, Vol. 1 by  James Tynion IV, Álvaro Martínez Bueno (Artist), Jordie Bellaire (Goodreads Author) (Colorist) Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A sudden invitation to a good friend’s house turns into a nightmare in author James Tynion IV’s “The Nice House on the Lake, Vol.1”,  the latest horror series from DC Comics.

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The Synopsis

With Something Is Killing the Children and The Department of Truth, James Tynion IV has changed the face of horror in modern comics—now get ready for his most ambitious story yet, alongside his Detective Comics partner Álvaro Martínez Bueno!

Everyone who was invited to the house knows Walter—well, they know him a little, anyway. Some met him in childhood; some met him months ago. And Walter’s always been a little…off.

But after the hardest year of their lives, nobody was going to turn down Walter’s invitation to an astonishingly beautiful house in the woods, overlooking an enormous sylvan lake. It’s beautiful, it’s opulent, it’s private—so a week of putting up with Walter’s weird little schemes and nicknames in exchange for the vacation of a lifetime? Why not?

All of them were at that moment in their lives when they could feel themselves pulling away from their other friends; wouldn’t a chance to reconnect be…nice? In The Nice House on the Lake, the overriding anxieties of the 21st century get a terrifying new face—and it might just be the face of the person you once trusted most.

Collects The Nice House on the Lake #1-6. 

The Review

This was such a beautifully balanced and thought-provoking read. The author and artist found the perfect harmony with one another, capturing the tone and settings of both the main event and the narrative futures that each character’s arc opens the chapter with. The striking contrasts between the grim horror of the events happening outside of the Lake House and the mind-bending science fiction happening within the home and its surroundings will captivate and send chills down readers’ spines. 

The mystery and character growth really shine through here. The mystery surrounding Walter and his origins are what draws the cast of characters into the narrative, to begin with, eager to learn why their caring and powerful friend has drawn them together on the eve of such a cataclysmic event. The examination of who these people were on the outside of the Lake House and the growing fears they each face play into the greater theme of isolation and the anxiety many are facing in this new era in our own world.

The Verdict

A breathtaking, artistically striking, and truly entertaining read, author James Tynion IV’s “The Nice House on the Lake, Vol. 1” is a must-read narrative, and leaves us wanting more. The brilliant artwork and captivating story will keep readers on the edge of their seat, and make for a heart-pounding and thoughtful story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Prior to his first professional work, Tynion was a student of Scott Snyder’s at Sarah Lawrence College. A few years later, he worked as for Vertigo as Fables editor Shelly Bond’s intern. In late 2011, with DC deciding to give Batman (written by Snyder) a back up feature, Tynion was brought in by request of Snyder to script the back ups he had plotted. Tynion would later do the same with the Batman Annual #1, which was also co-plotted by Snyder. Beginning in September 2012, with DC’s 0 issue month for the New 52, Tynion will be writing Talon, with art by Guillem March. In early 2013 it was announced that he’d take over writing duties for Red Hood and the Outlaws in April.

Tynion is also currently one of the writers in a rotating team in the weekly Batman Eternal series.

https://jamestynioniv.substack.com/

https://tinyonion.squarespace.com/

https://twitter.com/ReadTinyOnion
https://twitter.com/DCComics

Mister Miracle: The Great Escape by Varian Johnson  (Illustrated by Daniel Isles) Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young man eager to escape the hellscape of Apokolips must contend with his loyalty to his friends, a promise to protect someone close to his mentor, and a growing bond with one of his school’s deadliest warriors in author Varian Johnson and illustrator Daniel Isles’s “Mister Miracle: The Great Escape”, the latest graphic novel from DC Comics.

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The Synopsis

Falling in love was never part of the escape plan.

Scott Free is a student at the Goodness Academy, on the planet Apokolips, ruled by Lord Darkseid. Sounds pretty cool, right? Wrong. Scott Free wants nothing more than to leave Apokolips for planet Earth; the only problem is that no one has ever left Apokolips of their own free will…or alive.

Scott Free has a plan, a foolproof plan, a plan that his found family depends on for their own freedom. But that plan never involved falling in love with the head of the Female Furies, Big Barda-the one person tasked with ensuring he never escapes.

From the Coretta Scott King Honor-winning author of The Parker Inheritance, Varian Johnson, and afrofuturist artist Daniel Isles (DirtyRobot) comes the story of an escape plan that will take a miracle to pull off. Lucky for Scott, everyone calls him MISTER MIRACLE! Okay, fine, no one calls him that…yet.

The Review

This was such a powerful and fantastic read for both DC fans and YA fans alike. The exploration of one of DC Comics most hostile and chilling settings and the hierarchy that resides on the planet was such a refreshing change of pace, and focusing on a love story that is rarely shown in the grand scheme of things in the multiverse was amazing to watch unfold, especially in a YA setting. Apokolips proved to be the perfect fictional world to explore class systems and racism as a whole, showing that while those such as Prince Kalibak and Darkseid themselves look down upon everyone, even those that serve them have others to look down upon, and highlights the damage and hatred that kind of mindset can bring about in others.

The characters were the true heart of the narrative. Scott is the perfect YA hero here, giving readers a personal perspective of life in Granny Goodness’s orphanage, an iconic DC location in comics, and showing how he and Barda met and fell in love in a fresh and socially relevant way was amazing to read. The diversity and action balanced well with one another, and the deep-cut DC Comics characters and locations will have DC fans thrilled. 

The Verdict

A memorable, fresh, and entertaining YA and DC Comics graphic novel, author Varian Johnson and Daniel Isles’s “Mister Miracle: The Great Escape” is a must-read graphic novel and the perfect start to DC Comics’ 2022 schedule. The action, the muted tones in the art to highlight the despair that comes from a life on Apokolips, and fantastic character growth made this a brilliant read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Varian Johnson is the author of several novels for children and young adults, including The Parker Inheritance, which won both Coretta Scott King Author Honor and Boston Globe/Horn Book Honor awards; The Great Greene Heist, an ALA Notable Children’s book and Kirkus Reviews Best Book; and the graphic novel Twins, illustrated by Shannon Wright, an NPR Best Book.

Varian was born in Florence, South Carolina, and attended the University of Oklahoma, where he received a BS in Civil Engineering. He later received an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts, and is honored to now be a member of the faculty. Varian lives outside of Austin, TX with his family.

https://varianjohnson.com/

Unearthed: A Jessica Cruz Story by Lilliam Rivera (Illustrated by Steph C.) Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

One of DC Comics best and most beloved characters of the past decade takes center stage in an original story that puts her in the midst of the immigration debate as she struggles with whether or not to stay in the United States and strange visions of Aztec gods in author Lilliam Rivera’s “Unearthed: A Jessica Cruz Story”.

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The Synopsis

Acclaimed author Lilliam Rivera and artist Steph C. reimagine one of DC’s greatest Green Lanterns, Jessica Cruz, to tell a story about immigration, family, and overcoming fear to inspire hope.

Jessica Cruz has done everything right. She’s a dedicated student, popular among her classmates, and has a loving family that has done everything they can to give her a better life in the United States. While Jessica is a part of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, allowing her to go to school and live in the U.S., her parents are undocumented. Jessica usually worries for her parents, but her fears and anxiety escalate as a mayoral candidate with a strong anti-immigration stance runs for office.

As the xenophobia in Coast City increases, Jessica begins to debate whether it’s worth renewing her status to stay in the U.S., or if her family would be safer and better off moving back to Mexico. And despite her attempts to lean on her friends and family, she finds herself constantly visited by visions of Aztec gods, one pulling her towards hope and the other towards anger.

But when her father is detained by I.C.E., Jessica finds herself being pulled into an abyss of fear. With her father gone and feeling helpless, Jessica must find her way out of her fears and ultimately become a voice for her community. 

The Review

What a powerful and engaging new take on the iconic Green Lantern character. This was a fantastic story that really captured the struggle and strength of the Latino community, especially when the debate over immigration has never been higher in recent years. Jessica Cruz is the perfect character to bring this fight for justice and equality to light, as her DC Comics history played into the battle between fear and hope that her character has embodied since her introduction. As a half-Latino man whose late grandfather came to this country as a young child and built a family of his own through dedication and hard work, the cultural element and the familial bonds that Jessica had not only with her parents but her community as a whole really spoke to me, as these core values are something I was taught at an early age.

The fantastic blend of DC Comics character mythology, history, and Aztec mythology was amazing to see come to life here. The visions that Jessica had really did a great job of highlighting the inner-struggle of her character between fear and hope, and seeing things like side character John Stewart come into play and her father’s lessons really made this story shine brightly. The artwork itself was so engaging, striking amazing contrasts between the light and darkness that Jessica struggled with and which settled over Coast City as immigration and politics took more and more of a prominent role in the community. The warmth that the artwork seemed to invoke really spoke to me and helped convey the message clearly.

The Verdict

A brilliant, heartfelt, and refreshing new take on a personal favorite and iconic DC Comics hero, author Lilliam Rivera and artist Steph C.’s “Unearthed: A Jessica Cruz Story”, is a must-read graphic novel and a contender or graphic novel of the year. DC Comics showcases a brilliant eye for talent as both the artist and the author did an incredible job of relaying a new take on some fan favorite characters and their history while also bringing an important topic and theme to life in a way that can highlight the issues without sacrificing entertainment and relatability. If you haven’t yet, grab your own copy of this amazing story today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Lilliam Rivera is an award-winning author of children’s books including her latest Never Look Back, a retelling of the Greek myth Orpheus and Eurydice set in New York by Bloomsbury Publishing. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, The New York Times, and Elle, to name a few. Lilliam lives in Los Angeles.

https://www.lilliamrivera.com/

https://twitter.com/lilliamr
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About the Illustrator

Steph C. is a Mexican artist and illustrator mainly know for  her stylish characters that evoque a vibrant sensation within story and design whit a sense of geometry and sharp compositions. My goal is to inspire others through the power of creation!

https://twitter.com/thatstephc

https://thestephc.weebly.com/

https://www.inprnt.com/gallery/steph_c/

https://twitter.com/DCComics

https://www.dccomics.com/graphic-novels/unearthed-a-jessica-cruz-story