Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Conspirator Brock's Pull List for 12/26/12

For all of the curious people out there wondering what I like to read week to week here is a list of the titles I am going to be picking up for the week of 12/26/12:

(Note: I have included deep links for some titles if you wish to support Comics Conspiracy when you buy digital comics. I have not included links to Dark Horse books because you cannot support us currently by buying them through our site.)

01. Aquaman #15 DC
02. Justice League #15 DC


Reading List:

Amazing Spider-Man #700 Marvel
Avenging Spider-Man #15.1 Marvel
Before Watchmen: Night Owl #4 of 4 DC
Deathmatch #1 Boom!
Mara #1 Image


Small week for books due to the Holidays, but after last week, and all the Christmas shopping I bet your wallet could use the break. The two books on my pull list are the only two books I'm looking forward to reading this week: Aquaman and Justice League. These books start the "Throne of Atlantis" story arch. I'm excited especially since a double dose of Geoff Johns always makes for a good week of reading. Mara and Deathmatch came out today, and curiosity is driving me to look at Deathmatch, while hoping this is a Brain Wood story I can enjoy is pushing me to check out Mara. As for the three month delayed Night Owl, I'm just going through the motions, but I'm glad it is finally over. The big book on every one's mind this week is Amazing Spider-Man #700. I'm not sure about this book yet. On one hand it is a shame that Marvel is renumbering the franchise again, which will be the jumping (in this case swinging) off point. For others they will follow blindly into Superior Spider-Man, and there are those like me that really, at this point, could care less. Dan Slott built up a lot of hype around these last few issues, so we will just have to wait to see if it pays off. If you do pick up issue #700, let me know if you think eight bucks is worth a main story and two long back up stories that really don't have anything to do with the book. I'm also going to check out Avenging Spider-Man #15.1 to see how it ties in with what is happening with Spider-Man leading up to Superior. Well small week means shorter blurb. I will be tweeting my reviews of the last two weeks worth of books so stay tuned. Now go return those shitty Christmas gifts and come down and buy some comics.

Remember you can now find these titles and more in digital format at our Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront or you can still order comics from us directly by visiting the shop, giving us a call (408) 245-6275, or dropping Ryan an email at ryan@comicsconspiracy.biz.

As usual I'll be talking comics on The Comic Conspiracy, and on the Geekbox Forums. Now get out there and enjoy some good old fashioned comic book reading.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Conspirator Brock's Pull List for 12/19/12

For all of the curious people out there wondering what I like to read week to week here is a list of the titles I am going to be picking up for the week of 12/19/12:

(Note: I have included deep links for some titles if you wish to support Comics Conspiracy when you buy digital comics. I have not included links to Dark Horse books because you cannot support us currently by buying them through our site.)

01. America's Got Powers #4 Image
02. Batwoman #15 DC
03. Catwoman #15 DC
04. DC Universe Presents: Black Lightning and Blue Devil #15 DC
05. Fables #124 Vertigo
06. Green Lantern #15 DC
07. Green Lantern: New Guardians #15 DC
08. Happy! #3 of 4 Image
09. Harbinger #7 Valiant
10. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe #5 DC
11. Legion of Super-Heroes #15 DC
12. Nightwing #15 DC
13. Red Hood and the Outlaws #15 DC
14. Saga #8 Image
15. Star Wars: Agent of the Empire - Hard Targets #3 of 5 Dark Horse
16. Super Dinosaur #16 Image
17. Sword of Sorcery #3 DC
18. Thief of Thieves #11 Image
19. Unwritten #44 Vertigo
20. X-O Manowar #8 Valiant


Reading List:

All New X-Men #4 Marvel
Avengers #2 Marvel
Before Watchmen: Moloch #2 of 2 DC
Cable and X-Force #2 Marvel
Captain America #2 Marvel
Daredevil #21 Marvel
Indestructible Hulk #2 Marvel
JSA Liberty Files: The Whistling Skull #1 of 6 DC
Supergirl #15 DC
Thor: God of Thunder #3 Marvel
Thunderbolts #2 Marvel


Over thirty titles this week! What happened to spreading out the titles over the month? That went out the door due to how the holidays fall this year. Oh well, looks like you can let your loved ones buy you some of the books you might not be able to pick up for Christmas this year. Hey, stranger things have happened.
What books am I looking forward to this week? Green Lantern, Green Lantern: New Guardians, Saga, Catwoman, and Thief of Thieves are the books at the bottom om my pile of of book to read this week. Saving the best for last.
Catwoman, for some, might be a curious one to look forward to, but I have enjoyed this title overall , and I'm wondering what is going to happen with this books sudden departure from "Death of the Family" to the new story arc, "The Black Diamond Probability".
Family is a pain in the ass sometimes and in Thief of Thieves and Saga this could not ring more true. Both of these titles are must reads, and don't worry there should be second prints if the sell out.
"Rise of the Third Army" continues to rise, and not really move forward. Hopefully Green Lantern and Green Lantern: New Guardians can get the momentum going for this cross over event. I do like Baz so there is some curiosity to see what happens to him, and Kyle's journey to master the rings of the emotional spectrum is bad ass. I think it is time to have the Third Army march or something.
DC Universe Presents continues the story featuring Black Lightning and Blue Devil. I still like this title as an introduction title to characters. Maybe we will see the New 52 Outsiders in it one day. Even better would be an Outsiders ongoing. A fan boy can only hope.
Legion of Super-Heroes is back and I think I'm just reading it because I like the Legion. Paul Levitz has fallen off a bit with his writing of the title, but I'm still hopeful and slightly enjoying the book.
America's Got Powers has been gone since August and I had almost forgotten about the series entirely. Let's see if the break helped or hindered the story, because at this point it might be better to wait for the trade.
What can I say about Unwritten? It has been a consistently good Vertigo book and I enjoy diving into the literary world that Mike Carey has created.
Super Dinosaur in space? I think this will pan out a lot better than Iron Man in space.
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe has been a fun book. That's all I have to say about that.
Ryan Higgins made the joke that I read Sword of Sorcery and not Wonder Woman, and I could honestly care less. Sword of Sorcery explores the C-List Gem World, and despite the fact that it will most likely be canceled soon I'm enjoying the book. And don't forget the Beowulf back ups that are very bloody.
Fables, Fables, Fables. This title has lost something and it seems to be treading water. I still enjoy the world Bill Willingham created, but I can see why people have not been impressed with the last few story arcs. Fingers are crossed though for this book to find its footing again.
Star Wars: Agent of the Empire - Hard Targets has been interesting. I don't know if I can keep reading Star Wars books in single issue format though. I like having a completed story vs. one that I have to wait for. Maybe after this mini I will just opt to read Star Wars titles in trade.
Happy! is back and I will be at Illusive Comics and Games today to get Darick Robertson's autograph and maybe an intro for the podcast, but back to Happy!. This has been a great book and yes, I am saying I like a Grant Morrison title. Check it out if you haven't.
Nightwing crosses over with "Death of the Family" so, yes, I have to pick this book up during the event.
If you didn't read issue #14 of Red Hood and the Outlaws you should. Joker is back, and what he does to get at Jason is screwed up. Can't wait to see what Jason does in this issue.
Harbinger is picking up momentum and  I like where it is going. A team has been formed and things are starting to happen. Time for some ass kicking.
Batwoman has gotten so much better since the Wonder Woman team-up. This issue seems to break the pacing of that story, but I'm sure it is worth the break.
X-O Manowar has to stop the alien invasion with Ninjak. I'm so stoked to see this. Valiant's flag ship book has delivered every issue, and this one looks to continue that pattern.
As for the books on my reading list:
 JSA Liberty Files: The Whistling Skull I will give the first issue a try.
Avengers #2 will hopefully go somewhere and not suck.
All New X-Men #4 there should be a battle between present Cyclops and past Cyclops and not much else.
Didn't I just read Cable and the X-Force last week.
The cover was so horrid I almost didn't want to read it. Remender you have an uphill battle to keep readers with Romita's shit art in the book.
Moloch's story finishes up in this week's only Before Watchmen title.
Supergirl crosses over in "H'El on Earth", and maybe this issue can improve the story by giving us some motive or at least some hint as to H'El's plan.
Daredevil, apparently this issue is the first appearance of Superior Spider-Man. No one cares cause that shit will be over in six months to a year.
Thunderbolts let's see what you got.
Indestructible Hulk looks to be cool, because Hulk actually has direction when it comes to him raging out and smashing things. Plus, we actually get to see Banner do something good for a change.
Thor has been fantastic, and out of all of my reading list I am looking forward to reading this one.
Well I have some reading to get to, and you have some books to get from your local comic book store or online at our digital store. Merry Christmas!

Remember you can now find these titles and more in digital format at our Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront or you can still order comics from us directly by visiting the shop, giving us a call (408) 245-6275, or dropping Ryan an email at ryan@comicsconspiracy.biz.

As usual I'll be talking comics on The Comic Conspiracy, and on the Geekbox Forums. Now get out there and enjoy some good old fashioned comic book reading.

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Conspirator Brock's Pull List for 12/12/12

For all of the curious people out there wondering what I like to read week to week here is a list of the titles I am going to be picking up for the week of 12/12/12:

(Note: I have included deep links for some titles if you wish to support Comics Conspiracy when you buy digital comics. I have not included links to Dark Horse books because you cannot support us currently by buying them through our site.)

01. Ame-Comi Girls #3 featuring Duela Dent DC
02. Archer & Armstrong #5 Valiant
03. Batgirl #15 DC
04. Batman #15 DC
05. Batman and Robin #15 DC
06. Batman: Arkham Unhinged #9 DC
07. Bloodshot #6 Valiant
08. Clone #2 Image
09. Demon Knights #15 DC
10. Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E #15 DC
11. Green Lantern Corps #15 DC
12. Legion Lost #15 DC
13. Suicide Squad #15 DC
14. Team 7 #3 DC


Reading List:

Amazing Spider-Man #699.1 Marvel
Before Watchmen: Dr. Manhattan #3 of 4 Before Watchmen: Rorschach #3 of 4 DC
Cable and X-Force #1 Marvel
Deathstroke #15 DC
Fantastic Four #2 Marvel
Grifter #15 DC
Superboy #15
Winter Soldier #13 Marvel


Another week has come and there is a fair amount of titles I need to talk about. As usual I'm going to start at the bottom of my pile with the best titles: Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E, Suicide Squad, Batman and Robin, Batgirl, and Batman. Death of the Family dominates the titles I'm looking forward to this week as it should. This cross-over event has been amazing and each title that it touches in its own way adds so much to the overall story. I'm really looking forward to seeing how this all plays out in the end. The one down note to it now is the fact that Gail Simone will be leaving Batgirl after issue #16. All I can say to this is that Batgirl will never be the same.
The last book to round out the titles I am looking forward to is Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E, because it has been an great title on its own, but it has gotten more interesting since it has ties to Rotworld. It is a shame that the book is ending with the next issue, but it had a solid go for over a year, and I'm happy with that.
And yes, if you hadn't noticed I am completely in love with the stuff Scott Snyder has his hand in. Rotworld and Death of the Family are solid examples of good cross-over events (Marvel take note here). I am saddened to see Snyder leave Swamp Thing, but he is trying to manage his writing schedule to give a 110% to every title under his belt. There is a positive to this; Snyder and Jim Lee on a Superman book next year. We know where that book will be in my stack.
Let's start with Team 7. I am still not sure if I really like this book, but it still holds my interest enough to keep reading. Maybe with the story arc The Black Diamond Probability it will pick up. I'm hopeful for this book, because it is the background title for many other books I enjoy.
Next up is my half ass attempt to enjoy manga. Ame-Comi Girls has been a fun read from Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray. The spin they put on the characters is interesting and I like the art. It feel like a good combination of Manga and American style comics. I'm still not sold on getting the figurines, which for my wallet is a good thing.
Clone surprised me with issue one so it has jumped up from the reading list to the pull list. A fast paced book that throws you right into the action and drama. If you haven't given this book a try you should see if you can find a copy of number one at your local comic shop. Definitely something that a lot of people may have missed.
Legion Lost is still the better of the two Legion titles and yet it is going away after issue #16. Shame. I have enjoyed this mid-level book for over a year now, but trimming the fat has become a staple at DC. This is fine by me, but I am still a little let down this title and a few others are getting the axe. Hopefully, before the end this Legion will be found.
Batman: Arkham City fans, and in fact any Batman fan., should be reading this digital first title. The Batman world that has been created with the video games has some rich stories that come out in the pages of this title. That reminds me I still need to get the Harley Quinn pack. I wonder if it is one sale or free yet?
Old magic, during ancient times, and a cast of misfit heroes drives Demon Knights to success every issue. In this issue a Hell breaks loose, and I am ready to see how this story arc plays out.
Archer & Armstrong and Bloodshot are damn good titles that people need to check out. Both titles are shifting story arcs, and I can't wait to see where these books go. Valiant keeps putting out great books. You should really be reading them.
Guy Gardner is no longer a Green Lantern and with the Rise of the Third Army coming to a close what will happen to him, and the Corps? Peter Tomasi has been a solid choice for Green Lantern Corps for years, and in the New 52 there is no exception. This book almost made it to the bottom of my pile, but with the slight dragging of the Rise of the Third Army story arc I couldn't put it any lower in my pile. Still a worth while read.
Now it is time for my reading list breakdown. Before Watchmen hasn't been the same since the delay, and I'm still reading cause I have gotten this far so why stop now? Sanity?
Fantastic Four #2 will hopefully entice me enough to keep reading, but I have a feeling this title will fall off my list just as Iron Man did; with issue three.
Amazing Spider-Man #699.1 is to be honest, POINT-LESS. I don't know why I'm even bothering to read it. It breaks the slight momentum the last two issues have built just to get readers set up to buy the upcoming Morbius comic. They didn't even have the decency to list the creators on the cover.
Rob Liefeld is off Deathstroke and Grifter! I can enjoy reading these titles again. I have no clue what is going on in either book, but I'm so happy Liefeld is out I am going to at least give them a read again. Grifter though is done with issue #16, but at least I get to see where it goes before the end, but I may have to keep this issue of Grifter; the Suicide Squad makes an appearance in the issue.
Superboy crosses over with the H'El on Earth story, and so I must read it. I'm just glad I don't have to read The Ravagers or Teen Titans.
I get to enjoy some Ed Brubaker this week with Winter Soldier #13, and yes it has been a while. With all that double shipping prior to this I can honestly say that it is really noticeable that this book has been gone from the rotation for a little while. Oh well, standard operating procedure at Marvel.
And last on my reading list is the Marvel NOW! Cable and X-Force book. Not sure what to think of it yet, but I am hopeful it will be at least readable. The characters in this book are an interesting combination so like Thunderbolts, maybe this book will peak my reading interest.

Well there it is my breakdown of the comics I'm buying and reading this week. I hope you enjoyed it. Now get over to your local comic shop or click over to our digital storefront, and get your selection for the week.

Remember you can now find these titles and more in digital format at our Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront or you can still order comics from us directly by visiting the shop, giving us a call (408) 245-6275, or dropping Ryan an email at ryan@comicsconspiracy.biz.

As usual I'll be talking comics on The Comic Conspiracy, and on the Geekbox Forums. Now get out there and enjoy some good old fashioned comic book reading.

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Conspirator Brock's Pull List for 12/5/12

For all of the curious people out there wondering what I like to read week to week here is a list of the titles I am going to be picking up for the week of 12/5/12:

(Note: I have included deep links for some titles if you wish to support Comics Conspiracy when you buy digital comics. I have not included links to Dark Horse books because you cannot buy them through our site.)


01. Action Comics #15 DC
02. Animal Man #15 DC
03. Batwing #15 DC
04. Creator-Owned Heroes #7 Image
05. Detective Comics #15 DC
06. Earth 2 #7 DC
07. Fairest #10 Vertigo
08. Great Pacific #2 Image
09. Human Bomb #1 of 4 DC
10.The Phantom Stranger #3 DC
11. Shadowman #2 Valiant
12. Smallville: Season 11 #8 DC
13. Swamp Thing #15 DC
14. Worlds' Finest #7 DC


Reading List:
All New X-Men #3 Marvel
Amazing Spider-Man #699 Marvel
Avengers #1 Marvel
Before Watchmen: Comedian #4 of 6 DC
Before Watchmen: Minute Men #5 of 6 DC
Iron Man #3 Marvel
Legends of the Dark Knight #2 DC
Thunderbolts #1 Marvel


Happy Holidays! Thanksgiving and Black Friday are over, and Christmas and New Year's are almost upon us, which means this is the last month of comics for 2012. It has been an amazing year for comics, but that thought is for another post. You are here for my pull list, which you shall receive, NOW!
The books resting at the bottom of my pile waiting to be read are: Shadowman, Detective Comics, Animal Man and Swamp Thing. The last two shouldn't surprise you. I have been enjoying Animal Man and Swamp Thing for 16 issues now and I don't see any end to my enjoyment of these books (fingers are crossed) especially since I am really into the "Rotworld" story arc that is taking place right now. All I can say is that it is intense, engaging and just a great cross over event. If you are behind you seriously need to catch up.
As for the other two titles this week that I am waiting to read, I find it interesting that Detective Comics found its way to the bottom of my stack. I know it is partially due to the fact that it is crossing over with "Death of the Family", but I can honestly say that the book has gotten better and better since the creative team shuffle. Let's see where John Layman and Jason Fabok take us in the world where the Joker is back and planning something huge for our Caped Crusader.
And Shadowman crept past some book to make it down to the bottom of my reading pile. Valiant has, as I have said numerous times in the past few months, been knocking it out of the park with their line relaunch. Shadowman is interesting enough that I found myself waiting for this issue right after I read the last one. If you haven't tried a Valiant title you should. The first trade for X-O Manowar: By The Sword (Vol. 1) is out today. It collects the first four issues of the series for the low price of $9.99. Couldn't really hurt the wallet to check it out.
Now let's run down the rest of my reading pile. What can I say about Action Comics? Andy Diggle is almost here! I like Grant Morrison well enough, but he hasn't made Action Comics the strong flagship title it should be for DC and Superman. I'm glad we are going to see some change with the book, and I hope that Andy can make this book soar.
Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti have another mini-series from DC out this week: Human Bomb. After reading Phantom Lady and Doll man I am curious to see where this book goes. I think the boys are getting a team together. I may have to go back and read the Ray after this.
Batwing is still on my pull list? Yes. It isn't a great book, but it is entertaining enough that I enjoy seeing this aspect of Batman Incorporated, a lot more than seeing the actual title with that name.
Smallville: Season 11 is coming to a close. Am I ready to see the end to this comic? No, it has been a nice to immerse myself in the Smallville world again, but if Season 12 is up next I can't be to down about Season 11 ending.
I was surprised by the Great Pacific a few weeks ago, and I am going to dive in with this issue to see where it is going. I will admit I am not a huge fan of stories where the main character is a really smart kid (almost to smart for their age), but the first issue hooked me enough, so I'm going to go to trash island to see what all the fuss is about.
Creator-Owned Heroes is back, and I have really enjoyed this mash up of magazine and comic. If you haven't given this title a try you should. It is a rich mix of creativity and honest articles about the industry.
The Phantom Stranger, Worlds' Finest, Earth2 and Fairest are all good reads. Every month these books have made their mark on my pull list, and they have consistently delivered solid stories that make me enjoy reading comics.
As for the titles on my reading list I'm going to be able to start rimming the fat soon; especially with my Marvel NOW! titles.
First though, DC has three titles on my reading list right now. The delayed Before Watchmen books are flooding the shelves to catch up. So, this week sees Comedian and Minutemen taking up shelf space on the new release wall. Overall neither title is unreadable, but I still feel these books should have come out in trade paperback format rather than single issue. And as a heads up, to keep the pirate story in order read the Comedian before Minutemen.
I can honestly say that the reason Legends of the Dark Knight fell off my pull list so quickly was because it was another Batman book that only told little stories about Batman that were either blandly written or poorly drawn and sometimes both, with only one gem in each issue. I still like reading Batman tales so I am going to keep reading, but for $3.99 an issue I better be getting some damn good stories. I do hope the Steve Niles story in this issue kicks some ass though.
I don't know why I am keeping Iron Man on this list. The last two issues did nothing for me and the story isn't worth my time. Why do I torture myself?
Two Marvel NOW! numbers ones come out this week: Avenger and Thunderbolts. I am hopeful for both, but with the track record Marvel NOW! has had with me I'm not sure if either of these books are going to survive past issue two or three for me.
For those of you who haven't noticed All New X-Men seems to be a weekly title from Marvel NOW! I just read the last issue and wasn't impressed, but hey I can give it one more issue before I cut it out completely. If I do cut it out after this week is there anyway I can get a mind wipe about the whole thing (if I could I would say throw in wiping Iron Man too).
Last on the reading list is Amazing Spider-man. Hopefully, we will get to see some more story development in this issue. I know that people called me a "hater" for my opinions on the last issue, but Dan Slott has given readers a a lot of questions that need answers. Hopefully he can answer then in these last few issues. I'm honestly not holding my breath.
Well there is my weekly new comic book rant. You can "Follow Me" on Twitter to get some more rants about what I read every week. Now, get you asses down to you local shop or over to the Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront to get your books. Happy Holidays!

Remember you can now find these titles and more in digital format at our Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront.
You can still order comics from us directly by visiting the shop or giving us a call (408) 245-6275, or dropping Ryan an email at ryan@comicsconspiracy.biz.

As usual I'll be talking comics on The Comic Conspiracy, and on the Geekbox Forums. Now get out there and enjoy some good old fashioned comic book reading.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Conspirator Brock's Pull List for 11/28/12

For all of the curious people out there wondering what I like to read week to week here is a list of the titles I am going to be picking up for the week of 11/28/12:

(Note: I have included deep links for some titles if you wish to support Comics Conspiracy when you buy digital comics. I have not included links to Dark Horse books because you cannot support us currently by buying them through our site.)

01. All Star Western #14 DC
02. American Vampire #33 Vertigo
03. Aquaman #14 DC
04. Arrow #1 DC
05. Batman: The Dark Knight #14 DC
06. Bedlam #2 Image
07. Flash #14 DC
08. Justice League Dark #14 DC
09. Phantom Lady #4 of 4 DC
10. Planetoid #4 Image
11. Red Lanterns #14 DC
12. Superman #14 DC
13. Talon #2 DC
14. Thief of Thieves #10 Image*

*Our copies finally came in this week.


Graphic Novels
The Sixth Gun: Book 4 - A Town Called Penance Oni Press
(The Sixth Gun #18-23)


Reading List:

All New X-Men #2 Marvel
Batman Incorporated #5 DC
Before Watchmen: Ozymandias #4 of 6 DC
Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre #4 of 4 DC
FF #1 Marvel
The Fury of the Firestorm: The Nuclear Man #14 DC
Lookouts #3 Cryptozoic / Penny Arcade
Thor: God of Thunder #2 Marvel
Uncanny Avengers #2 Marvel
X-Men Legacy #2 Marvel


Oh boy another big week of books. Let's dive in. On the bottom of the stack for me this week: Aquaman, All Star Western, Justice League Dark and Thief of Thieves. All of these books are great titles that you should have on your pull list. If you don't have them then you are definitely missing out.
Aquaman this week is the prelude issue to Throne of Atlantis which is crossing over with Justice League in the coming months. I'm curious to see what Geoff Johns has in store for us with this story.
Justice League Dark just came off a intense story arc involving the search for the Books of Magic so where do we go from here? If the track record on this book is any example we are going to see some interesting stuff.
Jonah Hex is making his mark in the history books of the "New 52" with All Star Western. Every month this book delivers a good dose of guns, bullets, violence, booze and sex. The first trade is out so I highly recommend picking it up and catching up with the adventures of Jonah Hex.
Thief of Thieves was delayed for us, but I always enjoy reading this book because each issue has a twist that just keeps pulling you deeper and deeper into the story and characters.
What about the rest of my stack this week? Well Superman continues the H'el on Earth story that s far is coming about at a really slow pace, Hopefully this issue changes that pacing.
I'm giving the digital first Arrow book a try, because I have heard such good things about the show.
The craziness that is Bedlam is back and I'm going to dive into it with issue two and see if it keeps my interest.
Batman and the Scarecrow battle it out in The Dark Knight, and despite the long drawn out story in this title I keep it on my pull list, because I love David Finch's art and Gregg Hurwitz has brought some intense stuff to the title with the story telling so  it is still a title I want to read every month.
Planetoid is back after a few months off and I can't wait to see where this Ken Garing creation goes.
The end of Phantom Lady and Doll Man is upon us. I'm excited to see how this book ends, and I do hope Phantom Lady and Doll Man come back for more stories in the future.
Flash Vs. Grood continues this week, so all of you monkey lovers need to be picking up this issue.
American Vampire finishes the Black List story arc this week, and I'm really looking forward to it. Not super excited about the break Scott Snyder is taking from the book, but he is getting over whelmed in the amount of books he is writing. Sometimes a break is a good thing. We will have to see when he comes back if the break was worth it.
Another Scott Snyder project Talon is out this week and it has the staying power to stay as an ongoing for a while. I'm good with that.
Rise of the Third Army continues in Red Lanterns this week. I'm kinda ready for the Third Army to have risen already, but I will press on.
My reading list this week almost equal my pull list. Marvel NOW! dominates this list, and I will say that I am looking forward to Thor this week. Jason Aaron did a good job with number one and I'm want to see where this  God Butcher story arc goes. As for the returning X-Men Legacy I'm most likely going to be done with it after this issue. As for All New X-Men and Uncanny Avengers these two titles are the make or break for the Marvel NOW! titles. If they don't pan out then the rest of the line will fall way short of expectations. I wasn't overly impressed with either so these second issues are going to have to be amazing to keep my reading interest. FF will most likely just be a issue one read. I wasn't impressed with it from the Marvel NOW! Point One book and I'm not really a big Mike Allred fan. I will give number one a read though. Lookouts is back and it has been a fun ride so far so I'm going to stick with it for now.
Remember Before Watchmen? If you didn't you'll get a double reminder this week. Which is you are curious the reading order is Silk Spectre then Ozymandias, but you might want to read the Crimson Avenger back up from the Moloch One Shot in between them, because it is part four of that story.
Firestorm has been a good read since the creative shift and I look forward to enjoying this title on my reading list. As for Batman Incorporated I don't know if I can keep this title on my reading list because I am not impressed with it at all. It doesn't fir with the "New 52" and I feel that Grant Morrison's writing hasn't been as strong since the rejiggering. Only time will tell.
Last, but not least the forth trade for the awesome series Sixth Gun is out this week and you should really check this series out, because it is a great read.
I rushed through this week's pull list, and so you should rush over to your local comic shop or over to or Comics Conspiracy's Digital Store to get your books. See you next week.

Remember you can now find these titles and more in digital format at our Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront or you can still order comics from us directly by visiting the shop, giving us a call (408) 245-6275, or dropping Ryan an email at ryan@comicsconspiracy.biz.

As usual I'll be talking comics on The Comic Conspiracy, and on the Geekbox Forums. Now get out there and enjoy some good old fashioned comic book reading.

Monday, November 26, 2012

Bedlam #2 Phantom Variant!

The fifth installment of the Phantom Variant is for Bedlam #2 by Nick Spencer with art from Riley Rossmo. The first issue of this title was an interesting read that honestly makes you crave a bit more. So, don't delay and get your Phantom Variant copy ordered from Comics Conspiracy.

At Comics Conspiracy we have the privilege of being able to bring you the Phantom Variant for this title. You can purchase this exclusive variant while supplies last at Comics Conspiracy.biz for $14.99.

If you are lucky enough to live near us you can stop in and pick up your Phantom Variant for a special in shop price. And last but not least, if you want to check this book out digitally please visit our Comixology Storefront and pick it up there.

Captain America #1 and Indestructible Hulk #1 Phantom Variants!!

The forth installment of the exclusive Phantom Variant is again two books Captain America #1 & Indestructible Hulk #1.


The first Phantom Variant this week is Captain America #1, which is getting the Marvel NOW! treatment with a renumbering and a new creative team. Rick Remender takes over writing with John Romita Jr. on art in this now seventh volume of Captain America. 

The second Phantom Variant this week is Indestructible Hulk #1, which is getting the Marvel NOW! treatment with a renumbering and a new creative team. Mark Waid takes over writing the big green guy with Leinil Yu on art. Hulk an Agent of Shield? You'll have to see for yourself.












At Comics Conspiracy we have the privilege of being able to bring you these Phantom Variants. You can purchase this exclusive variant while supplies last at Comics Conspiracy.biz for $14.99.
If you are lucky enough to live near us you can stop in and pick up your Phantom Variant for a special in shop price. And last but not least, if you want to check this book out digitally please visit our Comixology Storefront and pick it up there.

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Happy Thanksgiving!

From my family to yours I hope that this Thanksgiving is filled with laughter, great food, friends and family. Remember that even the smallest thing is something to be thankful for. And if you brave the Black Friday madness be safe out there, because people be rioting for those ridiculous deals.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Conspirator Brock's Pull List for 11/21/12

For all of the curious people out there wondering what I like to read week to week here is a list of the titles I am going to be picking up for the week of 11/21/12:

(Note: I have included deep links for some titles if you wish to support Comics Conspiracy when you buy digital comics. I have not included links to Dark Horse books because you cannot support us currently by buying them through our site.)

01. Batwoman #14 DC
02. Bleeding Cool #1
03. Catwoman #14 DC
04. DC Universe Presents: Black Lightning and Blue Devil #14 DC
05. Fables #123 Vertigo
06. A Game of Thrones #11 Dynamite
07. Green Lantern: New Guardians #14 DC
08. Harbinger #6 Valiant
09. Justice League #14 DC
10. Legion of Super-Heroes #14 DC
11. Red Hood and the Outlaws #14 DC
12. Star Wars: Agent of the Empire - Hard Targets #2 of 5 Dark Horse
13. Sword of Sorcery #2 DC
14. Unwritten #43 Vertigo
15. X-O Manowar #7 Valiant

Graphic Novels
Walking Dead: Vol. 17 - Something To Fear (TPB - collects #97-102) Image

Reading List:

Amazing Spider-Man #698 Marvel
Captain America #1 Marvel
Clone #1 Image
Daredevil #20 Marvel
Indestructible Hulk #1 Marvel
Iron Man #2 Marvel
Judge Dredd #1 IDW
Supergirl #14 DC


Welcome back to another installment of my pull list. It is Thanksgiving week, and hopefully you can get your butt down to your local shop or on the internet to download get your books.
It is a medium week for me overall, except for the Marvel NOW! titles. Weren't these supposed to be released on a one number one per week for twenty two weeks schedule? I guess not.
I'm getting ahead of myself. The books I'm looking forward to this week are: X-O Manowar, Green Lantern: New Guardians, Catwoman and Justice League. A Valiant book sneaks into the top four this week and I can honestly say that it is long over due. X-O Manowar is a fantastic book by Robert Venditti with art by Lee Garbett. Valiant has made their mark in the comics industry this past year bringing readers strong titles about old characters that for a long time seemed to be lost to the history of comics from the 90's that came and failed. Valiant has brought these characters back to life, and I find myself looking forward to not only X-O Manowar every month, but the other titles as well: Harbinger, Archer & Armstrong, Bloodshot and most recently Shadowman. If you haven't jumped on the Valiant books you need to.
Catwoman seems to make it on the top of my list not because of Death of the Family, even though that helps, but because I'm really enjoying the direction the book is taking with the character. And yes, I do buy two copies of this title; one for me and one for my Catwoman loving girlfriend Calli.
As usual a Green Lantern book has to be represented on my top four. New Guardians has been okay, but I found that the first year the story dragged on a bit to long for me. With the Rise of the Third Army story arc starting, and Kyle learning to control the different color rings my interest has been renewed in this title.
And last, but not least there is Justice League. Even though Jim Lee is off the book, Geoff Johns and Tony Daniel have kept the greatness that this title has had going. I'm always curious to see what happens in this book, and I'm glad DC kept an artist on that has a similar style to Lee's. Can't wait.
For the most part all of the titles on my pull list this week are good reads that I enjoy month in and month out. One exception is DC Universe Presents. The current story arc with Black Lightning and Blue Devil is good, but I could be off of this book with the next arc depending on creative team and characters featured. If you remember Challengers of the Unknown by Dan Didio or the Kid Flash story you know what I am referring to. I like the overall concept of DC Universe Presents and I hope the books sticks a round for awhile to give us a glimpse into other characters in this "Ne w 52". Maybe a story about the Outsiders or Geo-Force on his own. Just a suggestion.
Vertigo has two titles on my pull list this week: Unwritten and Fables. Unwritten is interesting, and I've been reading the single issues since the beginning that I was for awhile just picking it up, because I always did, but it isn't half bad. I think when I go back and read it again in bigger chunks I'll like it even more, but it is an interesting title. As for Fables I am enjoying it, but I miss the epic stories that used to grace the pages of this book. The last few story arcs haven't been the best, but I'm hopeful that Fables will turn around and hit me with some awesomeness. Bring Back Boy Blue!
Batwoman has hung on to being on my pull list, and I'm happy it has. The Wonder Woman cross-over has really given this book a good footing, and I hope this trend continues.
Legion of Super-Heroes is still on my pull list, and I can't seem to bring myself to cut it. Maybe it is a small guilty pleasure of mine every month. Got to have some Legion, and definitely not the X-Men version after reading X-Men: Legacy #1 last week. Legion: Lost is good, but this main Legion title doesn't have the same feel as the older volumes. Only time will tell with this one.
Star Wars: Agent of the Empire - Hard Targets is a fun read that lets me see the world that is Star Wars. I'm like Agent Jahan Cross, and John Ostrander knows his stuff when it comes to Star Wars. Hopefully Star Wars can stay at Dark Horse, because if the Star Wars comics go over to the dark side that is Marvel I will shed a tear.
Sword of Sorcery hasn't lost my interest, and has been engaging enough to keep it on my pull list. It was cool to see The character make an appearance in Justice League Dark in the last issue and the Annual. So much more to see from this book. I'm just going to give it time.
Red Hood and the Outlaws has started to have Starfire wear more clothing, which sucks, but the book is fun, and it is going to start crossing into the Death of the Family story arc in Batman so you gotta read it just for that alone.
I mentioned that Harbinger was solid earlier, and if you didn't get the message about the Valiant books, you need to just go out and read them already.
My read list is full of Marvel NOW! titles. Iron Man #2 will hopefully redeem my interest. Captain America #1 will probably be a fine comic by Rick Remender, but with John Romita Jr. art it will never be great. Amazing Spider-Man #698 is out and Dan Slott has told people that this "is" the issue you need to read and retailers didn't order enough. Retailers didn't order enough because they don't want to sit on issues right before the end of a run. Of course Slott says that it all has to do with the story. I'll have more to say about this later. I'm curious about the direction Mark Waid is taking Hulk with Indestructible Hulk so maybe this one will interest me like Thor last week. Supergirl crosses over with H'El on Earth so I'm reading it. There is a new Judge Dredd comic out from IDW that I was going to check out, and Clone from Image looks to be interesting. We can only wait and see. Remember too that the latest Walking Dead graphic novel is out today, which I will most likely blow through in an hour, and give the Bleeding Cool Magazine a try. Who knows it could be something that replaces Wizard Magazine. Anyway, get to your shop or over to our digital storefront, and get your books. Don't forget though that you still have to get Cranberry Sauce. Happy Thanksgiving!

Remember you can now find these titles and more in digital format at our Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront or you can still order comics from us directly by visiting the shop, giving us a call (408) 245-6275, or dropping Ryan an email at ryan@comicsconspiracy.biz.

As usual I'll be talking comics on The Comic Conspiracy, and on the Geekbox Forums. Now get out there and enjoy some good old fashioned comic book reading.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Random Hardcover Picks - Episode 82

We did Random Hardcover Picks on The Comic Conspiracy: Episode 82. One was a super hero title and the other a non-super hero title. Here are my picks:

For non-super hero I went with the Vertigo book American Vampire written by Scott Snyder with art by Rafael Albuquerque. I have read this title from the beginning and at first I wasn't sure if I was going to like it, but that changed quickly. This Vertigo title has been an amazing read since the beginning, and it has even had a few mini series that have explored more of the world of the American Vampire. Snyder has created a memorable world with American Vampire and Albuquerque  has brought that world to life. This book is definitely worth picking up, and I have been putting off getting the hard covers myself, but I had Ryan order them for me this week. Can't wait to put them in my library.




For my super hero pick I went with Infinite Crisis by Geoff Johns with art by: Phil Jimenez, Jerry Ordway, George Pérez, and Ivan Reis. I actually need to go back and read this book again, because it has been some time since I read it. It is a great book that I recommend to people all the time. When Ryan had Geoff Johns at the shop for a signing I hadn't yet read the book, but I bought the hardcover anyway for Johns to sign. He actually sketched a head shot of Batman inside, and for a writer to do that I thought that was pretty cool. Needless to say I read Infinite Crisis, and after getting more exposure to DC and Johns's writing I can say with certainty that Infinite Crisis was the tipping point for me when it came to reading the big two. So, yes I would say pick up Infinite Crisis; it is a great book that you won't be disappointed about picking up


Remember you can download digital comics at our Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront or you can order comics from us directly by visiting the shop, giving us a call (408) 245-6275, or dropping Ryan an email at ryan@comicsconspiracy.biz.

Conspirator Brock's Pull List for 11/14/12

For all of the curious people out there wondering what I like to read week to week here is a list of the titles I am going to be picking up for the week of 11/14/12:

(Note: I have included deep links for some titles if you wish to support Comics Conspiracy when you buy digital comics. I have not included links to Dark Horse books because you cannot support us currently by buying them through our site.)

01. Ame-Comi Girls #2 featuring Batgirl DC
02. Archer & Armstrong #4 Valiant
03. Batgirl #14 DC
04. Batman #14 DC
05. Batman and Robin #14 DC
06. Batman: Arkham Unhinged #8 DC
07. Bloodshot #5 Valiant
08. Demon Knights #14 DC
09. Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E #14 DC
10. Green Lantern Corps #14 DC
11. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe #4 DC
12. Legion Lost #14 DC
13. Peter Panzerfaust #7 Image
14. The Phantom Stranger #2 DC
15. Saga #7 Image
16. Suicide Squad #14 DC
17. Team 7 #2 DC


Graphic Novels
Scalped: Vol. 9 - Trail's End Vertigo
(collects #56-60)


Reading List:

All New X-Men #1 Marvel
Amazing Spider-Man #697 Marvel
Batman: Arkham City - End Game #1 DC
Fantastic Four #1 Marvel
Great Pacific #1 Image
Thor: God of Thunder #1 Marvel
X-Men Legacy #1 Marvel


It has been a long time since I have had over twenty titles between my pull list and my reading list, but what can one expect from the second week, especially if that week comes right before Thanksgiving. Lots of reading ahead of me this week...a lot.
I am however really excited to get three Death of the Family titles this week: Suicide Squad, Batgirl and Batman are at the bottom of my pile waiting for me to experience more of the Joker's come back. Brings a smile to my face. In addition to Death of the Family I'm looking forward to the Green Lantern Corps next installment of the Rise of the Third Army, more Rotworld with Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E, and finally after a few months off Saga continues. I can't wait, but first I have to get through a stack of books.
One of the fun titles I've been enjoying despite creator change after issue one is He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. This book brings back memories of playing with my He-Man action figures as a kid. Curious to see how this plays out considering we are over half way through and He-Man has yet to appear.
Team 7 had a solid start in my book with the issue zero, but the first issue didn't grab my attention all that much. Hopefully this issue will revive some of that interest, because I would like to keep reading about these characters. If it doesn't it may fall to my reading list or off my radar completely. Finger are crossed for this title.
If you aren't reading Batman: Arkham Unhinged (either digitally or in print) you are missing out on some great stories centered around the awesome video game universe that has been set up in Batman: Arkham Asylum and Batman: Arkham City. Good stuff I really suggest it for anyone who likes Batman.
Ame-Comi Girls #2 is out this week and I must say I was surprised that I have like this title so far considering I'm not a huge manga fan. This book is a fun title that I will most likely enjoy for some time. Can't wait for the Harley Quinn issue though.
The Ravagers and Superboy make an appearance in Legion Lost this week and despite that I'm looking forward to this book. Of the two Legion books out this title haa been far more enjoyable.
Looks like we are going to find out more about Pandora in this week's issue of The Phantom Stranger. I've been really surprised that I have liked this book as much as I have, but Dan Didio has done a good job of making this title a quality read.
If you haven't been keeping up with Batman and Robin you should. Peter Tomasi has been doing a great job on this title, and it is nice to get another view of the Batman Universe.
The same greatness in a title applies to Demon Knights. This book is fantastic, and you should be reading it for yourself.
Valiant Comics has two titles on my pull list this week: Bloodshot and Archer & Armstrong. As I have said before Valiant has been putting out solid titles that are well worth picking up.
Peter Panzerfaust is back this week and I am curious to see where the next story takes this group of boys during the horrors of World War II.
My reading list is larger this week, because I'm going to be reading the Marvel NOW! titles as they come out to see if they are worth a continued read. This week there are is Thor, Fantastic four and two X-titles. What happened to the one number one a week for 22 weeks schedule that Marvel said they were going to use to roll out the Marvel NOW! titles? Guess they gave that up.
I'm also going to give the Great Pacific, and the beast book that is Batman: Arkham City - End Game a try this week.
It is time for you to go and face the same music I had to face this week; lots O' books. SO, get down to your local shop or click over to our Comixology Storefront to get your stack this week.

Remember you can now find these titles and more in digital format at our Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront or you can still order comics from us directly by visiting the shop, giving us a call (408) 245-6275, or dropping Ryan an email at ryan@comicsconspiracy.biz.

As usual I'll be talking comics on The Comic Conspiracy, and on the Geekbox Forums. Now get out there and enjoy some good old fashioned comic book reading.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Fantastic Four #1 and Great Pacific #1 Phantom Variants!!

The third installment of the exclusive Phantom Variant is two books Fantastic Four #1 & Great Pacific #1.

The first Phantom Variant this week is Fantastic Four #1, which is getting the Marvel NOW! treatment with a renumbering and a new creative team. Matt Fraction takes over writing and Mark Bagley takes over penciling duties to bring readers the fourth volume of the Fantastic Four. I think a lot of people are curious as to where this title is going to go especially after such a great run from Jonathan Hickman.


The second Phantom Variant this week is Great Pacific #1, an Image book written by Joe Harris with art from Martin Morazzo. This book is about one man's journey to clean up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and make a difference in the world, but he is going to do it his way. I'm curious to see what this book is all about, because Image has had some hits in the past few years, and I like reading stories that aren't always about super heroes.








At Comics Conspiracy we have the privilege of being able to bring you these Phantom Variants. You can purchase this exclusive variant while supplies last at Comics Conspiracy.biz for $14.99.
If you are lucky enough to live near us you can stop in and pick up your Phantom Variant for a special in shop price. And last but not least, if you want to check this book out digitally please visit our Comixology Storefront and pick it up there.

Friday, November 9, 2012

Got To Get IL, ID, OR, CA And Of Course The Regualr One Too

Justice League of America #1 by Geoff Johns with art from David Finch is going to be released with 52 variant covers. One for each state, and also one for Puerto Rico and one for Washington D.C. Now as of late variant covers have come under fire because they inflate numbers on books, have ridiculous incentives or they are exclusive to some close door retailers club. And as soon as it was announced that DC was going to have Justice League of America ship with 52 variants the internet blew up with people calling this a huge gimmick and something that could destroy the comic book market.
First off it is a gimmick, but it is a gimmick that works not only with the title of the book "Justice League of America", but also with the current theme behind DC's comics, "The New 52." So, why wouldn't you include the fifty states, D.C. and Puerto Rico to fit in with these two things? DC has a solid marketing plan with this, but people still screamed that it was too much and it was going to inflate the numbers and destroy the comic book stores.
You don't have to worry about your local comic book store going out of business from the variants on this issue. Stores don't have to order a certain number of the regular cover to be able to order the state variants. Each state variant has its own line order number and can be ordered in any quantity. For example, a comic book store in Boise, ID can order all ID covers and none of the regular cover if they want. A shop in Small Town, MN can order a couple of each state variant, on top of however many regular covers they want. So, retailers are free to order as they please to fit their shop tastes.
And it seems like there will be a way for shops to order sets of the state variants, and they don't have to hit a certain number to be able to order the sets either. Variant collectors can rest easy knowing they don't have to shell out money for 150 regular copies and then the cost of the 1:150 variant. They just need to let their local shop know what they want so it can be pre-ordered.
This is the best way to do a lot of variants on one book. Give retailers the ability to choose how many, if any at all, and give the customers the chance to say hey I want this cover and that one, which the retailer can actually obtain easily with out breaking the bank.
I need to track down a map of the US and start making a pre-order form for our shop. I know I'm going to be getting the Illinois, Indiana, Oregon and California variants, which ones are you getting?

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Conspirator Brock's Pull List for 11/7/12

For all of the curious people out there wondering what I like to read week to week here is a list of the titles I am going to be picking up for the week of 11/7/12:

(Note: I have included deep links for some titles if you wish to support Comics Conspiracy when you buy digital comics. I have not included links to Dark Horse books because you cannot buy them through our site.)


01. Action Comics #14 DC
02. Animal Man #14 DC
03. Batwing #14 DC
04. Creator-Owned Heroes #6 Image
05. Detective Comics #14 DC
06. Earth 2 #6 DC
07. Fairest #9 Vertigo
08. Green Lantern #14 DC
09. Legends of the Dark Knight #2 DC
10. Shadowman #1 Valiant
11. Smallville: Season 11 #7 DC
12. Super Dinosaur #15 Image
13. Swamp Thing #14 DC
14. Worlds' Finest #6 DC


Reading List:
Before Watchmen: Moloch #1 of 2 DC
Deadpool #1 Marvel
Iron Man #1 Marvel
The Manhattan Projects #7 Image


Now that you have cast your vote (or not because the electoral college is a joke), and Obama is going to be President for the next four years you can relax with some new comics. For me there will be some excitement building to get to these titles: Earth 2, Animal Man, Swamp Thing, and Green Lantern. How can you go wrong with more Rise of the Third Army, some alternative world DC super heroes and Rotworld? You can't. These titles are great reads that always find there way to the bottom of my reading pile. Got to save the best for last, and I can only thank James Robinson, Jeff Lemire, Scott Snyder and Geoff Johns for their mastery of story
As for the rest of the books on my pull list I'm looking at a wide variety of titles to dive into. Super Dinosaur from Robert Kirkman is back this week, and although this title isn't as good as Walking Dead or Invincible (partly due to the fact that the book is aimed at a younger audience) is a fun title that I've been pleasantly enjoying for a little over a year now. If you haven't tried Super Dinosaur check it out. You might be surprised how you feel about this book.
Some Batman Universe books come out this week: Detective Comics, Legends of the Dark Knight (a digital first title) and Batwing. Now I've been on the fence about Batwing for a couple of months now. It encompasses the Batman Incorporated feeling that Grant Morrison set-up before the "New Rejiggered 52", which makes the book an interesting read, but it isn't a strong title over all. I'll keep getting it for now, but this book may end up becoming a read only title if it doesn't get cancelled before that. As for the Legends of the Dark Knight title I wasn't overly impressed with the first installment of this title, but since it is collection of Batman stories I'm willing to keep it on my pull list until it no longer holds my interest. We can only see how long that lasts.
As for Detective Comics I was floored by the last issue and excited to see more. This book had an okay first year for me. Never really at the top of any of my lists, but since the creative team change the book seems to finally found its footing.
A couple of Superman titles to get a dose of The Man of Steel: Action Comics and Smallville. Action Comics #16 can't get here fast enough. I'm tired of Morrison's take on the early years of Superman and his secret identity. The book hasn't held the muster that DC pitched to us a year ago. Maybe Andy Diggle can pull it out of this funk. And of course every Smallville fan should be getting this title either through there local shop or digitally. This is a nice comic that continues the Smallville TV show, but in digital first and then in actual physical comic form. Good read and I think fans of the show should really pick this book up.
Fairest #9 is out this week and the cover is enticingly hot and sexy. Fairest has been an interesting spin-off title from Fables and I have enjoyed it so far. Check it out if you haven't already.
Another Earth 2 based title is out this week: Worlds' Finest. What can I say about this title except that I can't wait till they rip Power Girl's top off to reveal that awesome cleavage of hers. So, good.
I cannot stress the greatness off the next title: Creator-Owned Heroes. This book is a fantastic comic/magazine that doesn't over do it like Wizard used to. It is a honest and personal look into the world of creating comics and seeing some original work from creators is also amazing. Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray and the crew over at Creator-Owned Heroes have made a quality title that more people need to be checking out. Get down to your local shop or over to our Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront to check it out for yourself. Help support the creator by putting this book on your pull list, or picking it up of the shelf, or reading it digitally. This reminds me whatever happened to Bleeding Cool Magazine #1?
Lastly on my pull list is Valiant's Shadowman #1. Valiant has been making a come back with the re-imagining of their characters so I can only expect another great title from Shadowman. Ryan Higgins is excited for this book too and I would have to say it is a definite buy for reader's this week.
There are a handful of books on my read list and one may surprise you. Before Watchmen: Moloch isn't one of the surprise books. As I have said before with Before Watchmen, these books aren't single issue buys, but trade buys. We will have to see how this one pans out. Manhattan Projects isn't a surprise either. This book fell off my pull list after the last issue. I like Jonathan Hickman's writing, but this book hasn't been living up to the muster that I got from the first few issues. We will see if this issue can redeem the title.
Can you guess which title has surprisingly made it onto my read list: Iron Man or Deadpool? I'll give you a hint, the character has red on their outfit. Still stumped? It is Deadpool, but I will get to why in moment. First off I want o say that I wasn't going to have much to do with the whole Marvel NOW! re-numbering, not re-imagining or being in any way shape or form creatively different(definitely not with Superior Spider-Man or John Romita Jr. art on Captain America), but I feel I need to at least give some books a go to be knowledgable enough to let listeners, readers and customers know what they are getting into with some of these books.
There are some positives to this; I like Greg Land's art so reading Iron Man will at least be pleasant on the eyes, and with Deadpool, the real surprise title on my read list, is only being checked out for two reasons. One reason is because we are selling the Phantom Variant for this book, and the second reason is because I looked at some preview pages and the art looks amazing. All of the Marvel NOW! titles have an uphill battle in front of them to get readers and keep them, and to keep retailers ordering enough copies of future issues. I hope something can come out of this that will help Marvel become a better publishing company. (I actually laughed after I typed that last line.) Well it is that time people; get down to you local comic book store or click over to our digital storefront to get your weekly dose of comics. And remember to be thankful that we are not swearing in a President this year named Mitt.

Remember you can now find these titles and more in digital format at our Comics Conspiracy - Comixology Storefront.
You can still order comics from us directly by visiting the shop or giving us a call (408) 245-6275, or dropping Ryan an email at ryan@comicsconspiracy.biz.

As usual I'll be talking comics on The Comic Conspiracy, and on the Geekbox Forums. Now get out there and enjoy some good old fashioned comic book reading.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Comic Book Binding - Drop Off 11/10/12

On Saturday, November 10th Ryan Higgins, Bryce Larsen, Gage our guest on the Suicide Squad Special (Episode 24), and I are heading up to Brisbane, CA to Herring & Robinson to drop off our stacks of books to get bound, and to take a tour of the bindery. I'm excited to see the book binding process in person, and I will definitely be posting a review of this tour here for your reading pleasure.

Currently as of this post I'm ready to get a total of five things bound:

The first title in my stack of books headed to the bindery is Ascension from Top Cow. I've always wanted to finish reading this title with early work from David Finch, and now that I have all the issues I can. I've included some of the variant covers to see how they hold up to the binding process.

The second title I'm taking up to get bound is the Cliffhanger/Image title Crimson. Written and drawn by Humberto Ramos, with writting assisstance from Brian Augustyn, I've always been curious about this title about vampires, because I think Ramos's art really works for this book. We shall see how the story holds up in a bound collection. I also included variant covers in this binding and even a chrome one to see how it would hold up to the binding process. Only time will tell.

The next three volumes are composed of the 1990's Guardians of the Galaxy. This series written and drawn by Jim Valentino has been a favorite of Marvel space fans for years. With the movie coming out in 2015 I decided to finally get a run together to read up on this version of the Guardians. I loved the Guardians of the Galaxy from Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, and can't wait for the Annihilation, Annihilation: Conquest, Nova and Guardians of the Galaxy Omnibuses, but maybe I'll be into Valentino's Guardians too, but I get to enjoy a version I complied. In these volumes I'm going to include a table of contents that lists the issues in each volume and I think I'm going to test out the sewn binding on this three volumes as well.

Stay tuned for more on my binding projects, because now that I have some finished I can start working on others.