Below is a blurb from InVision comics about the book, followed by the review -Marylou

An extremely feared and militaristic nation, proudly recognized as the Grunnod, has stolen freedom, joy and fortune from an entire galaxy. They are in search of an ancient artifact from a long, forgotten time. It is believed to unlock a door to an immense and immeasurable power. Many scholars, and others believed to be immortal, have died of old age trying to exhume it. This relic is believed to be hidden deep within the innards of a Grunnodian possessed world. A broken soul seeks revenge for what the cruel Grunnodians have done to his people. He escapes. And when a tortured victim finds power and purpose, the shacklers that face him sing a sad song.

The first thing that I can say about Genecy is that the artwork caught my eye. It seemed to be drawn by someone with experience in the comic book industry who I’ve come to find out, was Eddy Barrows. Eddy’s skills could be seen on various titles throughout the DC Universe and based on what I saw on his website, he’s seems to be working on a Superman title. The colors also grabbed my attention which seemed to work for this story, which is set somewhere on a fictional planet out in space.

The story is kicked off with narration of a character that seems to be a leader of a faction/group, but the story doesn’t delve into it. Rather, the story heads right in the direction of finding “the one”, a stranger that is gifted a possession who fortunately discovers a great ability/power. This leads me to believe that if the story continues with Genecy # 2, etc., it will be a prequel of sorts. Nothing wrong with taking a story back to its beginning but I’ve discovered over time that when a story starts off in “the middle” there’s a lot of jumping back and forth, and stories that jump back and forth in time…can get confusing.

As the story continues, the main character who becomes “the one” seems interesting, but only after he receives his new found ability/power but unfortunately the story ends there. What I thought to be more interesting in this story was the initial character who kicked off the story and the character toward the end known as “Raknirod”. But because the story started in the middle (and ends there), it leaves us with a whole bunch of questions that will most likely be answered in subsequent stories of Genecy. Gerald Cooper (creator of Genecy) has his work cut out for him if he wants everyone that has read the first issue of Genecy to stay interested.

So overall, the ambition was there and the initial story was a good read but a new comic book/story that comes out needs to not start & end in the middle, but to simply have a beginning, middle and end…or, at least book #2, #3 & #4 ready to be consumed by the readers.

*Want more of Genecy? Just type in genecy in your favorite search engine, and head over to Kickstarter to make Genecy #2 come to fruition.

Genecy facts:

Creator: Gerald Cooper

Pencils: Eddy Barrows

Colors: Tim Ogul & Oren Kramek

Publisher: Invision Comics

Links:

Eddy Barrows

Kickstarter

Tim Ogul

Oren Kramek

Invision Comics

Brimstone and The Border Hounds is comic book series that puts a new and interesting spin on the idea of Hell. Heaven and Hell are actually alternate universes, we are destined before conception to one of these universes, which are run by organizations. These organizations thrive by using post prime existence labor (using the newly deceased as cheap and expendable labor). Whichever afterlife has the best workforce is in a better position to gain power and influence over the world. Souls that are destined for Hell are placed into containment facilities and are forced into slave labor. Now a black market is emerging to return these souls to their perspective reality or to a higher paying competitor. This greed has caused fighting to spill over into our world, which is why there is a need for The Borderhounds, private squads in charge of border control and retrieval.

Brimstone is one of these Borderhounds, but his heritage makes him unique. He is half human, half native son of Hell. Brimstone is one of the only sons of Hell who can traverse and exist in other universes, this gives him the upper hand when it comes to border control, but it also makes him a target for those who want to control the balance of power between existences.

Another Cold Day is a four part story. In issue one we are introduced to Jack Dursey, a corrupt Wall Street Broker, who after screwing a poor man out of everything he owns, heads home where he and his family are brutally murdered by the ruthless killer known as Mr. Hostile (who was sentenced to, and killed by the electric chair eight years earlier). Jack wakes up from his death to find himself on a literal highway to Hell, however he manages to escape after the vehicle transporting him is blown up. Just as he is making his escape he meets Brimstone.  In issues two and three we get to see Brimstone and his crew in action. The questions regarding Mr. Hostile are also answered (is he the original Mr. Hostile or a sick impostor?).

I have to admit I did not know what I was getting into when I started reading these books, Hell isn’t a favorite subject of mine, and a comic book written by a professional wrestler? I was going to have “The Cameraman” take on this review. But I am so glad I didn’t!

The premise of the book is original, the writing is philosophical and humorous, the artwork is very well done, and the coloring is rich. If I had one complaint about the book, it would be a minor one regarding the lettering. Weeps and sobs are written in with no distinction between them and the dialogue (almost like an actor reading them out loud instead of acting them).

I really enjoyed the narrative aspect of the writing, it isn’t used for inner dialogue or simply to fill in the blanks, instead it is used in a way that compliments the story. For instance in issue one, the narrative tells us Jack Dursey’s name, date of birth, and elaborates on what kind of man he is. I was very much reminded of the opening scenes of “Six Feet Under” while reading the first few pages of issue one and that got me instantly hooked.  In fact I would say that Brimstone and The Borderhounds feels like a combination of “Six Feet Under”, “Reaper”, and “Neighbors From Hell”, which (I think) is a good thing, especially since there is an animated series in the works. We missed the premier of the series at Wizard World Miami, but Brimstone told us that it would be online soon, when it is we will post a link. There are teasers of the art featured at the end of each book and the style looks like a cartoon I would enjoy watching, since I am already hooked on the story, I am pretty excited to see it.

Brimstone and Hound Publishing are not stopping with the animated series. There is also a Brimstone action figure (the prototype was unveiled at the book release) that is scheduled to be released at Toys R Us later this year, and SGN Games is currently working on the “Brimstone and The Borderhounds” video game for the Xbox LIVE and PS3.

You can download your issues of Brimstone and The Borderhounds at DriveThruComics, and you can keep up with Brimestone and The Borderhounds on their website. Also check out Brimstone’s YouTube Channel.

Two-Step written by Warren Ellis is about a young London Gangster and a girl (camgirl) that has cameras wirelessly hooked up to her as she is broadcasting her life “live” on the internet. It may sound kind of vanilla at this point, but this story seemed like it was written as the internet was exploding in popularity (1995 to early 2000) because Two-Step issue #1 was released around the end of 2003, meaning of course the story and artwork was done many months before. But to continue with the story, the camgirl takes an interest in the Gangster during a mugging, which then leads to some odd but interestingly mature scenarios. There were 3 issues released for Two-Step, so what I have in my hand is the TP with a new cover and sketches by Amanda, along with the script for the entire story by Warren.

Even though it’s been around for a while, new readers to comic books probably never heard of it, and even those that have been fans for a while might have overlooked this book, which is okay really, because some of the books that we become quite fond of, are books that we have overlooked while keeping up with the “big event story lines” of the more mainstream titles, and the newbies after settling in, will pick up an older book by an artist or writer that they currently like.

A book like Two-Step that has been put in TP form with all the extras, is really a good thing. I have never read anything by Warren Ellis up to this point so reading Two-Step is a great starting point for me, and it has peaked my interest in picking up one of Warren’s latest works. Overall I liked the storyline and pacing of Two-Step, it was light hearted and fun but a very mature read. I think Amanda’s style really contributed to it feeling that way, if you read the book, you will know that the story line could’ve been a lot more perverted than it was.

If you are new to comic books or you have an earnest desire to be a writer (comic book or otherwise) or perhaps even an comic book artist, then I suggest you pick up Two-Step or any other TP that features a behind the scenes look as to what it takes to put a book together. And before I forget, colors (cover & interior) were done by Paul Mounts, lettering by Ken Lopez, and inks by Jimmy Palmiotti.

*Review of Two-Step temporarily replaced the reviewing of #1 comic book issues, because somehow, somewhere, are #1 issues that we aren’t/haven’t been receiving.

The last few pages are a prologue to all the changes facing Diana, which I am going to keep an open mind about. While I hate when they try to create new universes and (in this case) timelines, I know that everything will be reconciled in the end, and I am hoping  it will lead to an updated, yet true version of the princess (which is what J. Michael Straczynski is promising), although I do hope we get the old costume back.

The book also includes pinups from some amazing artist: Adam Hughes, Nicola Scott, Ivan Reis, Guillem March, Greg Horn, Francis Manapul, Phil Jimenez, Jock, and Shane Davis. Out of all the pinups Francis Manapul’s is my favorite, and he is quickly becoming one of my favorite artists.

Even with all the wonderful artwork I have to admit that my favorite Wonder Woman image of all time still has to be Michael Turner’s cover to Identity Crisis #4.

All the stories are good, and show a different side to Wonder Woman, but my favorite is Amanda Conner’s. Lately I love everything she does, and this was no exception. Her artwork is wonderful as always and her story has the same light-heartedness as her and Jimmy Palmiotti’s Supergirl run on Wednesday Comics.

If you are a Wonder Woman fan this issue is a definitely an issue you should pick up, it even has a introduction by Linda Carter.

I have to admit that I wasn’t thrilled when I learned this book would focus on Sliverdun. He was my least favorite character in Midwinter, just a womanizing noble-man, who ticked off the wrong girl and suffered the consequences. A book about Mauritaine and Raiveve, or even Satterly would have excited me much more.

My lack of interest in Silverdun is probably why it took me a little bit longer to get into The Office of Shadow, then Midwinter, but once I got drawn in, I didn’t put it down until I had read the last page.

In The Office of Shadow Sliverdun is recruited into the Shadows by Lord Everess, who has also recruited Ironfoot, a scholar whose research may lead to a break through on the Einswrath, and Sela a young Fae, whose unusually strong gift landed her in an institution with the mentally ill. Faella, the mestina responsible for Silverdun’s transformation, also plays a big part in the second book, just as Queen Regina Titania had predicted.

Matthew Sturges puts a lot of elements in this book, war, politics, fairy tales, science fiction, and religion all play a big part in it. There are also a lot of flashbacks, some of which even made Silverdun grow on me.

My favorite part of The Office of Shadows is the same thing that made Midwinter so enjoyable: the way Matthew gets you REALLY in to what is going on, only to start the next chapter somewhere completely different, (one minute you are about to receive a revelation about a character’s past, only to turn the page and find yourself eavesdropping on war plans) yet you don’t mind because everything fits so well together . I can’t remember another series that captivated me as much as this one, or that combined so many elements in one book….but what else would you expect from the writer that brings House of Mystery to comic book shelves every month?

I really enjoyed this issue, it was more lighthearted than the first issue in the series (you can read my review on that here), Hollander makes his first appearance, and brings some humor with him. James Emmett’s artwork fits the story well, and feels very polished. As with Badge of Langavat Russell does a good job of introducing us to the world of the Occult and explaining all its myths, there is even a compendium at the end of the issue that sheds some light on the facts behind the myths.

If you are into history, and folklore you will love this series and the detail that Robert James Russell brings to it. You can purchase your copy from Indy Planet. Make sure to check out the Saint James website for more on them and their other projects.

Ex Occultus: Seal of Solomon
Created and Written By: Robert James Russell
Story: Robert James Russell
Art and Lettering: James Emmett
Cover: J.R Fleming
Published By: Saint James Comics LLC

I love comics that consist of short stories by different writers and artists…and this one was no exception. I enjoyed all the stories, but my favorite had to be  Trina Roberts’ story about Venus. I love Greek mythology, and the sixties…so how could I not enjoy her story about Venus coming to earth in 1969 to get the job she had twenty years earlier as editor of Beauty Magazine back? Stephanie Buscema’s artwork really made the story come to life.

I also loved the She Hulk pin-up by Sana Takeda and hope there is more from her in issues two and three. The two spotlights featured in the comic were a great addition. It was nice to hear about how these women helped shape Marvel, and I love the fact that “Fab Flo” not only still works for the company, but that she proof read her own spotlight!

Last but not least I love the brief bios at the end of the issue, it was refreshing to get the opportunity to read about the people behind the comic you just finished reading.

I really like what Marvel is doing with Girl Comics and cannot wait for issue two to drop next month.

In issue #50 Kara discovers what has been ailing Lana for the last year (which all stems from the Superman: Insect Queen story arc). I normally HATE giant bugs in comics, there is just something about them that always feels like a cop-out to me. But Gates does such a great job focusing on the characters that the insects are not distracting, they simply help tell a bigger story.

In this issue we find out what has become of Lucy Lane (Superwoman) since her apparent death, a truth that completely changes the father daughter dynamic between her and General Lane…again.

If you have not been keeping up with Supergirl, issue 50 is a good place to start…an unforgettable cover by the great Micheal Turner. The events leading up to this issue are covered just enough for anyone to pick up the issue, enjoy it, and look forward to what is next.

First thing about this book that caught my attention was the artwork. It  made me feel like I was watching an old noir film…the panels with the insects and creatures from Hell, not has much, but they were still pretty good quality.

I almost feel as though reading two issues of this book isn’t enough to give any review of the story justice. It is slowly unfolding into something huge, and every turn of the page draws you in a little more…just what is Hector, why was he brought back to life, how will he embrace his new found power, will he succeed in the daunting task put before him? These questions are what leave you wanting more from Hell’s Blood. You can purchase issues one and two here.

Hell’s Blood Issues One & Two
Creator & Pencils: Hector Rodriquez
Writers: Chris Buchner, Liam Webb
Additional Pencils: Byrne Negron
Inks: Alex Rivera
Grayscales: Jet Amago
Letters: Johnny Lowe
Cover Artists: Ven Yann, Shahir Shakir, James Rodriquez
Published By: Guild Works Publications

45 is told in a new and unusual way. Each of the 45 interviews is told in transcript form with a page of artwork accompanying it. Each piece of artwork is illustrated by a different artist.

I have to admit the format of 45 is unique and takes some getting used to, but by the 3^rd interview I was engrossed in the story. The world of 45 takes place in the present, in a reality where comic book heroes exist…as fictional characters, whose copyrights make it difficult for the real heroes to come up with decent names. 45 also gives us it’s original take on world events.

I really enjoyed the fact that the story is told through so many different perspectives. There are interviews with Super-S (people born with super-powered abilities), 2^nd degrees (people who gain their power through circumstance), Norms (people with no abilities) who have a loved one with an ability, Vaders (Super-S or 2^nd degrees who prefer evil ways) are also interviewed, along with active and retired heroes.

The interviews feel more like short stories than transcripts, and there is something for everyone… stories of heroism, greed, envy, regret, love, and loss.

Andi really knows how to tell a story. I felt as though I was reading a movie script and I could see each scene play out in my mind, and the artist’s interpretations are amazing. I loved looking over the artwork to try to gain some insight of what I was about to read. After reading each interview I looked over the artwork again, and in a weird way it was like looking at it for the first time…I could see the story unfold in the illustration. It was a new and satisfying way to read a comic.

45 will be released in comic book shops within the next couple of weeks. Keep your eyes out for it; it is a definite must read!

If you want to know more about 45 check out our interview with Andi.

45
Written By: Andi Ewington
Art Work By: Liam Sharp, John Higgins, Sean Phillips, Charlie Adlard, Jock, Lee Garbett, Admira Wijaya, Carlo Pagulayan, Rodin Esquejo, Matt Timson, Neil Edwards ,Trevor Hairsine , Andie Tong ,Rufus Dayglo , Dom Reardon ,Sally Hurst ,Andrew Wildman, Stephen Thompson ,Jeff Anderson, Frazer Irving , Ben Oliver , EduardoFrancisco , Dan Brereton, Barry Spiers , Robert Atkins , Fiona Staples , Bob Wiacek , Boo Cook, Gary Erksine , Ross Dearsley , Lee Carter , Sean O’Connor , Kevin Kobasic , Dave Ryan, Randy Green ,Tim Vigil ,Simon Coleby , Calum Alexander Watt, Steve Sampson , Kit Wallis , Anthony Castrillo ,Seb Antoniou, Dan Boultwood, Dan Fraga, Kenneth Rocafort
Published By: Com.X