en-US Sun, 27 Apr 2025 23:00:45 -0700 60 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg 223329631 112 Christos Gage 1302961462 Shivesh 4 comics 3.50
author: Christos Gage
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.50
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/27
date added: 2025/04/27
shelves: comics
review:
Read these floppies with my son as they came out monthly. The release schedule was a little rough with delays but overall we enjoyed the straightforward narrative. I do think Peter needs to be more of a nerd and less popular, but his new friends and the general vibe of the series was "Spidey updated for the modern age" of cell phones and complicated family dramas. My kid liked it. The art was probably the best aspect, as it blended well with the TV show.
]]> 59485074
Collects ICE CREAM MAN #25-28]]> 128 W. Maxwell Prince 1534319301 Shivesh 4 comics, horror, library-vegas 3.98 2022
author: W. Maxwell Prince
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/27
date added: 2025/04/27
shelves: comics, horror, library-vegas
review:

]]> 57576757 Continuing the adventures of the Dark Knight from Tim Burton's classic movie Batman, Batman '89 pulls on a number of threads left dangling by that film while continuing in the tradition of DC's very successful Batman '66 series.

In 1989 moviegoers were amazed at the new vision of the Dark Knight brought to the screen by filmmaker Tim Burton, starring Michael Keaton as Batman and Jack Nicholson as The Joker. Now, in the tradition of DC's very successful Batman '66 series, Batman '89 is set in a truly gothic Gotham City and features colorful villains including The Joker, Two-Face, and many more.

Collects: Batman '89 #1-6.]]> 152 Sam Hamm 1779512686 Shivesh 2 comics, library-vegas 3.54 2022
author: Sam Hamm
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.54
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/26
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 214151191 Please, Saran-Wrap your ass, because you're about to projectile-shit yourself right into the wild world of RIFTERS, where Time Cop collides with Law & Order, filtered through the Stupid McSmartsalot-Einstein lens of Mr. Show.

Fenton and Geller are a couple of part-time Wisenheimers, full-time vice time-cops who suck at rule-following but excel at busting time-travel crimes. Unfortunately, their daily grind involves tedious police work¡ªlike chasing down douchebag influencers hellbent on live-streaming illegal transtemporal trips to 1920s Chicago to steal primo bootleg hooch.

However, in a twist of fate, our heroes find themselves thrust into the heart of an inter-time serial homicide mystery, but not before things change, forcing our pair into the crosshairs of potentially lethal consequences.

The stakes are high, time is of the essence, and Fenton and Geller are about to discover that playing with the time-stream isn't all flappers and jazz hands. Get ready for a high-octane, double-illegal adventure where the only sure thing is that RIFTERS is rewriting the rulebook on time-travel tales!]]> 192 Brian Posehn 1534387609 Shivesh 1 comics 2.67
author: Brian Posehn
name: Shivesh
average rating: 2.67
book published:
rating: 1
read at: 2025/04/22
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves: comics
review:
Really didn't work on any level. The comedy tried too hard and the internal logic of the time travel police was frazzled and confusing.
]]> 55120693
Collects ICE CREAM MAN #21-24]]> 128 W. Maxwell Prince 1534317279 Shivesh 3 comics, library-vegas, horror 3.86 2021
author: W. Maxwell Prince
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/21
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: comics, library-vegas, horror
review:

]]> 204191779
Sur place, des squelettes humains d¨¦pouill¨¦s de leur chair laissent imaginer les sc¨¨nes d'horreur qui ont pu se d¨¦rouler. Plus perturbantes encore : les immenses montagnes noires aux pics ac¨¦r¨¦s au pied desquelles le Pr Lake et ses compagnons ont rendu l'?me... Ces terres d¨¦sol¨¦es semblent cacher de terribles secrets. Gare aux imprudents qui oseraient s'y aventurer !

Avec un trait sombre et r¨¦aliste, Gou Tanabe met en images les pires cauchemars imagin¨¦s par H. P. Lovecraft, le ma?tre du fantastique et de l'horreur. Aux confins des terres inexplor¨¦es, la joie de la d¨¦couverte laisse place ¨¤ une lutte sans espoir contre la terreur et la folie !]]> 626 Gou Tanabe 1506740693 Shivesh 5 horror, library-vegas, manga 4.43 2016
author: Gou Tanabe
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/20
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: horror, library-vegas, manga
review:

]]> 216779590 Take a dark descent into a world of supernatural evil! Explore true horrors of sinister spirits, ominous ghosts, angry souls, menacing monsters, malicious demons, and cursed creatures in this collection of the malevolent paranormal!



Sometimes the monsters are monsters ¡ª swimming the murky waters of Loch Ness, stalking their victims the streets of small town America, or hunting innocents across the desolate British moors. At other times, the darkness lies within the human soul itself ¡ª the falsely accused who were executed for witchcraft in Salem, those hounded to their graves (and beyond) by cruel pursuers, or those cursed by all forms of vile spirits. Then there are the devils and demons lurking in the darkness, capable of possessing and tormenting the living.



Master storyteller and seasoned paranormal investigator Richard Estep presents sinister hordes of evil in Dark Monsters, Demons, and Devils . This fright-filled read spans the darkest realms of the paranormal, including ¡­




Shapeshifters such as the menacing Skinwalkers of native mythology and ravenous, slavering werewolves
Dreaded ghosts and ominous hauntings, including John Wayne Gacy¡¯s ghost, the Amityville haunting, and the Villisca Axe Murder House
Dark and evil curses, from the curse of Superman and Steven Spielberg¡¯s Poltergeist to the tomb of Egypt¡¯s pharaoh Tutankhamun
Deadly demons and devils, like Dozmary Pool¡¯s deal with the devil; Ronald Hunkeler, the Exorcist Boy; and the inhabitants of the Ammons demon house
Vampires and vampirism from Vlad the Impaler to Elizabeth Bathory, killer of hundreds, to the Highgate Vampire
Horrific accusations and deadly consequences that ripped through society from the Salem witch trials to the supernatural hysteria caused by the rapid spread of tuberculosis to the 1980s Satanic panic
Otherworldly encounters like the Black Eyed Children that appear out of nowhere, the Roswell Crash, unexplained animal mutilations, and abducted human beings
Cursed places, including the Bermuda Triangle, London¡¯s haunted Underground, and Los Angeles¡¯ notorious Hotel Cecil
And dozens more stories of dark and depraved paranormal beings and encounters.



Walk into the abyss of the whispered and veiled legends, the myths and first-person encounters in Dark Spirits . Learn about these frightening experiences and how they scarred lives forever. Explore the dark supernatural world around you¡ªif you dare!]]> 256 Richard Estep 1578598478 Shivesh 0 to-read 4.50
author: Richard Estep
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 48933302
Collects ICE CREAM MAN #17-20]]> 128 W. Maxwell Prince 1534315977 Shivesh 5
Comics as art here. ]]> 4.04 2020
author: W. Maxwell Prince
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/13
date added: 2025/04/13
shelves:
review:
This was a sublime volume that hit much visited topics such as mortality but in a memorable and deeply creative way. A mix of X-Files, Eternal Sunshine and A Beautiful Mind.

Comics as art here.
]]> 213960714 Collects the entire story of THE BLIZZARD, as originally published in IMAGE! 30TH ANNIVERSARY ANTHOLOGY #1-12]]> 0 Geoff Johns 1534330453 Shivesh 3 3.94 2024
author: Geoff Johns
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/13
date added: 2025/04/13
shelves:
review:

]]> 45009929
When you've waged war as long as Andy and her squad, you've gotten your hands more than bloody. Now, the day has come to confront the sins of the past. But as Nile struggles to make peace with the team, the last person Andy expected ever to see again returns to challenge not only what Andy believes in, but what the team is willing to fight for.

Collects THE OLD GUARD: FORCE MULTIPLIED #1-5]]> 128 Greg Rucka 153431377X Shivesh 3 comics 3.99 2020
author: Greg Rucka
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/13
date added: 2025/04/13
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 214151940 128 David Hazan 1545816166 Shivesh 2 comics 3.25
author: David Hazan
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.25
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/13
date added: 2025/04/13
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 229004624 152 Jonathan Hickman 1302958291 Shivesh 0 to-read 5.00
author: Jonathan Hickman
name: Shivesh
average rating: 5.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 39104182 From the Eisner Award-winning creators Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale, this graphic novel includes three dark tales of horror and intrigue featuring Batman facing off against his most demented and wicked foes.

On the most terrifying of holidays, Halloween, the Dark Knight Detective confronts his deepest fears as he tries to stop the madness and horror created by the Scarecrow, the Mad Hatter, the Penguin, Poison Ivy and The Joker. Collecting the acclaimed Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight Halloween Special, Batman: Madness - A Legends of the Dark Knight Halloween Special and Batman: Ghosts - A Legends of the Dark Knight Halloween Special.]]> 192 Jeph Loeb 1401284868 Shivesh 4 classic, comics, horror 3.95 1996
author: Jeph Loeb
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.95
book published: 1996
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/12
date added: 2025/04/12
shelves: classic, comics, horror
review:

]]> 217045738
Spider-Man faces the Sinister Six! After their intense battle with the Kingpin, Green Goblin and Spider-Man both know they aren't as ready to reshape the world as they hoped. Harry and Peter get to work, while Ben and Jonah search for "the truth" - and problems for their resistance arise when the Ultimates return! But they're not the only team in The Kingpin has gathered six sinister super villains to deal with his masked-vigilante problem! But who, exactly, are the Ultimate Sinister Six? You won't possibly guess them all - but would you believe that Parker luck, one of them is the Black Cat! Meanwhile, Green Goblin joins forces with¡­Doc Ock?! And with Tony Stark back, Peter must also explore his new suit's limitations.]]> 152 Jonathan Hickman 1302958283 Shivesh 4 comics, escape 4.40 2025
author: Jonathan Hickman
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/11
date added: 2025/04/11
shelves: comics, escape
review:

]]> 44512919
Collects ICE CREAM MAN #13-16
]]> 128 W. Maxwell Prince 1534313761 Shivesh 3 comics, horror, library-vegas 3.92 2019
author: W. Maxwell Prince
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/09
date added: 2025/04/09
shelves: comics, horror, library-vegas
review:

]]> 214934606 Lester, the larping bastard son of the Odin, wanders the post apocalyptic wasteland after thwarting Satan¡¯s attempt to bring about the end of days. But can this hero of the downtrodden survive the battle arena of Will Frye the Technomancer Guy?

Eric Powell (The Goon) and comedian and voice actor Lucky Yates (Archer) combine twisted comedic talents to bring you Lester of the Lesser Gods.? Originally created as an unproduced animated short by Powell a decade ago, the concept was revived when the two writers were looking for a comic project to work on and Lester was born!

This collection includes the original one-shot, the new three-part miniseries, a sketchbook and cover gallery.]]> 128 Eric Powell 1506744532 Shivesh 2 comics, fantastical 2.53
author: Eric Powell
name: Shivesh
average rating: 2.53
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/08
date added: 2025/04/08
shelves: comics, fantastical
review:
If 90's Mad Magazine never died.
]]> 209787873 Massive mechs battle giant monsters in this epic sci-fi graphic novel by comics superstars Ram V and Evan Cagle.

A story of heroes, impossible armors, ghosts, and people, centuries apart, trying to keep their worlds from crumbling.

A century ago, a portal opened over Central America and giant monsters known as the Tetza came through, changing everything we knew. Now the world bends all its effort to build the Iron Kings¡ªgreat mechs driven by pilots¡ªthat battle the Tetza in gladiatorial combat for humanity's continued survival. War has turned to sport.

Star jockey Anita Marr has been chosen to pilot a secret new prototype that could change the tide in humanity's favor.

After a difficult first battle together, Anita begins to uncover and understand the unusual connection forming between herself and the experimental new Iron King, Dawnrunner. As the Tetza threat grows, Anita, Dawnrunner, and their secrets will become mankind¡¯s last hope. Are we doomed or will dramatic revelations push Anita and Dawnrunner to transcend into something new?

Written by Ram V, drawn by Evan Cagle, colored by Dave Stewart and Francesco Segala, and lettered by Aditya Bidikar.

Collects Dawnrunner #1¨C#5.±Õ±Õ> 168 Ram V. 1506726356 Shivesh 5 comics, library-vegas Stunning art. 3.70
author: Ram V.
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.70
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/08
date added: 2025/04/08
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
Stunning art.
]]> 218461944 152 Garth Ennis 1302964801 Shivesh 4 comics, library-vegas 4.45
author: Garth Ennis
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.45
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/01
date added: 2025/04/06
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 201632459 160 Jonathan Hickman 1302957295 Shivesh 5 comics, classic 4.47 2024
author: Jonathan Hickman
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/31
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves: comics, classic
review:
This is almost a perfect modern superhero comic run. A succinct story with three discrete threads that intertwine via intriguing characters and a taught narrative that moves us through the story arc as if on a treadmill. It helps that this book places Peter Parker squarely into the life we all want for him: married to MJ with kids. I like the older Parker look and MJ is pitch perfect. This volume is cinematic!
]]> 217045785 The Penguin is dead, long live the Penguin!

Since his "death" and subsequent return to Gotham City, Oswald Cobblepot's world has been anything but mundane. Now he finds himself in the perfect position to make the ultimate power grab for Gotham's underworld, but it won't come without a price! Are the risks worth the potential rewards? Or will Oswald's gambit prove to be a deadly miscalculation with even deadlier consequences?

Collects The Penguin #7-12.]]> 128 Tom King 1799500527 Shivesh 2 comics 3.70 2025
author: Tom King
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2025
rating: 2
read at: 2025/03/12
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: comics
review:
Definitely not as memorable as the first volume...
]]> 214151140 128 Chip Zdarsky 1534385924 Shivesh 0 4.17
author: Chip Zdarsky
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.17
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: currently-reading, comics, horror
review:

]]> 199797554
The Creep challenges comics¡¯ biggest names to shock readers like never before! And with a ghoulish roster including Garth Ennis (Preacher, The Boys), Becky Cloonan (Wonder Woman), Michael Walsh (The Silver Coin), Zoe Thorogood (It¡¯s Lonely At the Centre of the Earth), and Nick Dragotta (East of West), readers may die of FRIGHT before finishing this volume!

DON¡¯T SAY WE DIDN¡¯T WARN YOU.

Collects CREEPSHOW VOL. 2 #1-5]]> 128 Garth Ennis 153439768X Shivesh 4 comics, horror 3.65
author: Garth Ennis
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.65
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/29
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: comics, horror
review:
This was solid and a lot of fun. "The Amulet" stole this volume, as did the last story. The creepy kids stories were a bit too much and didn't read as well as the more campy horror.
]]> 6145869
But what is the meaning of Mustafa¡¯s shocking confession? Mustafa disappears without explanation, leaving the young man¡ªwhom he has asked to look after his wife¡ªin an unsettled and violent no-man¡¯s-land between Europe and Africa, tradition and innovation, holiness and defilement, and man and woman, from which no one will escape unaltered or unharmed.

Season of Migration to the North is a rich and sensual work of deep honesty and incandescent lyricism. In 2001 it was selected by a panel of Arab writers and critics as the most important Arab novel of the twentieth century.]]> 139 Tayeb Salih 1590173023 Shivesh 2 classic, escape 3.87 1966
author: Tayeb Salih
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.87
book published: 1966
rating: 2
read at: 2025/03/22
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: classic, escape
review:
A narrator who obsesses over another man with a dark soul who does unspeakable things. A cold hearted society which values some lives higher than others. A journey into a heart of darkness. A similar tale as Conrad's, but told less expressively and without the zeal for the devil's delight that we see in Colonel Kurtz's pursuit of damnation.
]]> 214151742 216 Takeru Hokazono 1974752712 Shivesh 4 manga, library-vegas 4.22 2024
author: Takeru Hokazono
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/16
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves: manga, library-vegas
review:

]]> 1014723 125 Doug Moench 0930289684 Shivesh 0 to-read 3.97 1992
author: Doug Moench
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.97
book published: 1992
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/13
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 60311454 Stephen King's apocalyptic vision of a world blasted by plague and tangled in an elemental struggle between good and evil remains as riveting and eerily plausible as when it was first published.

Nominated as one of America's best-loved novels by PBS's The Great American Read

A patient escapes from a biological testing facility, unknowingly carrying a deadly weapon: a mutated strain of super-flu that will wipe out 99 percent of the world's population within a few weeks. Those who remain are scared, bewildered, and in need of a leader. Two emerge--Mother Abagail, the benevolent 108-year-old woman who urges them to build a peaceful community in Boulder, Colorado; and Randall Flagg, the nefarious "Dark Man," who delights in chaos and violence. As the dark man and the peaceful woman gather power, the survivors will have to choose between them--and ultimately decide the fate of all humanity.

(This edition includes all of the new and restored material first published in The Stand The Complete And Uncut Edition.)]]> 1439 Stephen King 0307743683 Shivesh 3 classics-2024, fantastical 4.25 1978
author: Stephen King
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.25
book published: 1978
rating: 3
read at: 2024/01/20
date added: 2025/03/13
shelves: classics-2024, fantastical
review:

]]> 42835855
Plus: more is revealed about the mischievous Ice Cream Man and his history with the dark cowboy, Caleb.

Collects ICE CREAM MAN #9-12]]> 128 W. Maxwell Prince 1534312269 Shivesh 3 comics, library-vegas, horror 3.63 2019
author: W. Maxwell Prince
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.63
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/13
date added: 2025/03/13
shelves: comics, library-vegas, horror
review:
The second and third stories in this four-issue volume don't really hit; the conception of quotidian horror is there but the execution is not tight enough. The final story takes up most of the attention: a cosmic space horror that really sent a few shivers down the spine, but the ending was peculiar. I'll keep reading future volumes though. W. Maxwell Prince has a fantastic imagination.
]]> 198509198
Bruce Banner¡¯s new friend Charlie reminds him he¡¯s more than a man on the run: He¡¯s an Avenger. A hero. And heroes help people. So when their travels lead them to a Texas town under attack by dreaded monstrosities known as war devils, Bruce decides it¡¯s time for the Hulk to step in! But in doing so, he rouses an undead Spirit of Vengeance from his eternal slumber ¨C summoning a hundred-year-old Ghost Rider who intends to ride down the Hulk! Then, Hulk and Charlie find themselves in a supernatural town haunted by a serial killer ¨C but Frozen Charlotte is no mere mortal killer, and Hulk will need the help of a supernatural detective to track her down! Enter the Ghost Detective! Plus: A fascinating and soul-crushing tale of war by Phillip Kennedy Johnson set in modern-day Afghanistan will chill you to the bone.

Collecting INCREDIBLE HULK (2023) #6-11 and material from WAR IS HELL (2019) #1.]]> 152 Phillip Kennedy Johnson 1302954172 Shivesh 3 comics 3.66
author: Phillip Kennedy Johnson
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.66
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/11
date added: 2025/03/11
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 38812898 128 W. Maxwell Prince 1534308768 Shivesh 4 comics, library-vegas, horror 3.86 2018
author: W. Maxwell Prince
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/08
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: comics, library-vegas, horror
review:
This series is the epitome of finding a writing niche that you are good at, with deep inspirations from everyday horrors around you, and hitting that theme over and over again. Home run series.
]]> 209695974
As a young boy, Chihiro trains every day under his father to become a swordsmith. Although different in temperament, the two spend peaceful days laughing and working together. But one day, tragedy strikes¡­ Now Chihiro burns with hatred and sets out to exact revenge. Following clues left behind by a ruthless yakuza organization, Chihiro confronts the Hishaku, a deadly group of sorcerers that may be behind his father¡¯s murder!]]> 216 Takeru Hokazono 1974747247 Shivesh 5 manga, library-vegas
One of the most striking aspects of Kagurabachi is its mastery of action sequences. Hokazono employs a fast-paced, compressed paneling style that effectively conveys the frenetic energy of battle. Each panel is meticulously crafted to capture the raw power and swift movements of the characters, making the readers feel as if they are in the midst of the action. The artwork's dynamism is complemented by the fluidity of the narrative, which seamlessly transitions from one high-stakes encounter to the next.

The fight scenes are not just visually stunning but imbued with emotional weight, reflecting Chihiro's internal struggle and stoicism. This depth adds a layer of complexity to the story, elevating it beyond mere spectacle. Hokazono's ability to blend kinetic action with poignant storytelling is a testament to his skill as a mangaka.

Moreover, the world-building in Kagurabachi is exceptional. The intricate details of the environment, combined with the vivid depiction of characters, bring the story to life in a way that is both captivating and immersive.

Kagurabachi is not just a tale of revenge but also a story of resilience and perseverance, and our hero's encounters with various adversaries serve to test and shape his character. The volume ends on a tantalizing challenge and intro to a new villain. Can't wait for the second volume to release in February.

I am hoping 2025 will be an epic year of manga for me.]]> 4.13 2024
author: Takeru Hokazono
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/01
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: manga, library-vegas
review:
Vol. 1 of Kagurabachi by Takeru Hokazono stands out for its exhilarating action panels. The narrative introduces us to Chihiro Rokuhira, a protagonist driven by a quest for vengeance following the brutal murder of his father, a distinguished blacksmith. This central plot sets the stage for a series rich in intensity and emotional depth.

One of the most striking aspects of Kagurabachi is its mastery of action sequences. Hokazono employs a fast-paced, compressed paneling style that effectively conveys the frenetic energy of battle. Each panel is meticulously crafted to capture the raw power and swift movements of the characters, making the readers feel as if they are in the midst of the action. The artwork's dynamism is complemented by the fluidity of the narrative, which seamlessly transitions from one high-stakes encounter to the next.

The fight scenes are not just visually stunning but imbued with emotional weight, reflecting Chihiro's internal struggle and stoicism. This depth adds a layer of complexity to the story, elevating it beyond mere spectacle. Hokazono's ability to blend kinetic action with poignant storytelling is a testament to his skill as a mangaka.

Moreover, the world-building in Kagurabachi is exceptional. The intricate details of the environment, combined with the vivid depiction of characters, bring the story to life in a way that is both captivating and immersive.

Kagurabachi is not just a tale of revenge but also a story of resilience and perseverance, and our hero's encounters with various adversaries serve to test and shape his character. The volume ends on a tantalizing challenge and intro to a new villain. Can't wait for the second volume to release in February.

I am hoping 2025 will be an epic year of manga for me.
]]> 36992226
ICE CREAM MAN is a genre-defying comic book series, featuring disparate ¡°one-shot¡± tales of sorrow, wonder, and redemption. Each installment features its own cast of strange characters, dealing with their own special sundae of suffering. And on the periphery of all of them, like the twinkly music of his colorful truck, is the Ice Cream Man¡ªa weaver of stories, a purveyor of sweet treats. Friend. Foe. God. Demon. The man who with a snap of his fingers¡ªlickety split!¡ªcan change the course of your life forever.]]> 144 W. Maxwell Prince 1534306757 Shivesh 4 comics, library-vegas 3.59 2018
author: W. Maxwell Prince
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.59
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/20
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
This could be from the mind of Stephen King. Supremely creepy, dark and twisted stuff. There is an undercurrent of a larger ancient narrative behind these stories, much like the Man in Black.
]]> 52352609
Can Batman imagine the life of a corpse with a half-eaten face without dying himself?

A man was murdered, and the Batman is in his head--and he knows how it happened. All he has to do now is survive his own deduction.

Warren Ellis and Bryan Hitch, one of the most legendary creative partnerships of the modern age, reunite in this tale about life, death and the questions most are too afraid to ask.

Collects The Batman's Grave #1-12]]> 296 Warren Ellis 1779506570 Shivesh 3 comics, library-vegas 3.44 2021
author: Warren Ellis
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.44
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/03/06
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 225642069
On his quest to find a cure to his radioactive existence, Tariq Geiger, Barney, and Nate the Nuclear Knight come across a hidden community in the wastelands¡ªone that offers an echo of what once was suburban America¡­and a hope for what it could be again. But dark forces in pursuit of The Glowing Man¡ªnamely Nate¡¯s former comrades-in-arms from the Camelot casino and their formidable leader, the New King¡ªthreaten to destroy it all, and only Geiger's unleashed rage can stop them. But will Tariq go too far? The answer: yes, and he will never be the same again.

This new edition also includes Geiger: Ground Zero #1-#2 that recounts the days soon after The Unknown War rained nuclear devastation across the U.S. Experience Tariq Geiger¡¯s earliest days as the Glowing Man, trying to survive his new normal and the hellish landscape left in the wake of war.

Collects Geiger (2024) #7-#9 & Geiger: Ground Zero #1-#2.]]> 160 Geoff Johns 1534332251 Shivesh 5 comics 4.36
author: Geoff Johns
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.36
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/28
date added: 2025/02/28
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 200870220
Gotham¡¯s criminal element has been evolving since he was last in the city, with his bastard twin children ruling the Iceberg Lounge. And what of the man he framed for his death¡ªBatman? Is the Penguin walking into a death sentence?

From award-winning and bestselling writer Tom King (Batman, The Human Target) and artist Stefano Gaudiano (Gotham Central, The Walking Dead) comes a bloody, hard-boiled tale of redemption and revenge!]]> 156 Tom King 1779525249 Shivesh 4 comics, library-vegas 3.74 2024
author: Tom King
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/25
date added: 2025/02/26
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 62888845
From the explosive pages of GEIGER comes JUNKYARD JOE! The world knows him from the comic strip by recently retired cartoonist Muddy Davis, but the truth stretches back to the Vietnam War. The tragedies of combat and visions of a strange robot soldier that saved Muddy's life there still haunt him. But dreams become reality when Joe mysteriously shows up on Muddy's doorstep, warning of a new impending war.

Collects JUNKYARD JOE #1-6]]> 208 Geoff Johns 1534325891 Shivesh 5 comics, library-vegas 4.22 2023
author: Geoff Johns
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/24
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 208185059 For readers of Naomi Klein and Nicole Perlroth, a myth-dissolving expos¨¦ of what ¡°artificial intelligence¡± really means, and a resounding argument for an equitable future of A.I. Silicon Valley has sold us the illusion that artificial intelligence is a frictionless technology that will bring wealth and prosperity to humanity. But hidden beneath this smooth surface lies the grim reality of a precarious global workforce of millions laboring under often appalling conditions to make A.I. possible. This book presents an urgent, riveting investigation of the intricate network that maintains this exploitative system, revealing the untold truth of A.I.Based on hundreds of interviews and thousands of hours of fieldwork over more than a decade, Feeding the Machine describes the lives of the workers deliberately concealed from view, and the power structures that determine their future. It gives voice to the people whom A.I. exploits, from accomplished writers and artists to the armies of data annotators, content moderators and warehouse workers, revealing how their dangerous, low-paid labor is connected to longer histories of gendered, racialized, and colonial exploitation.A.I. is an extraction machine that feeds off humanity's collective effort and intelligence, churning through ever-larger datasets to power its algorithms. This book is a call to arms that details what we need to do to fight for a more just digital future.]]> 288 James Muldoon 1639734961 Shivesh 3 4.14 2024
author: James Muldoon
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/22
date added: 2025/02/23
shelves:
review:

]]> 63106392 Creepshow, a new star-studded five-issue comic book anthology based on the hit Shudder TV series and advancing the worldwide phenomenon that began with George A. Romero and Stephen King¡¯s iconic 1982 film and has continued with the Greg Nicotero-helmed genre anthology series entering its fourth season on Shudder and produced by Cartel Entertainment

Creepshow comes to comics packed with bone chilling stories from the biggest names in comics that will SCARE YOU TO DEATH!

The superstar roster includes Chris Burnham (Die! Die! Die!), Paul Dini (Batman: The Animated Series), John McCrea (Hitman), David & Maria Lapham (Stray Bullets), Erica Henderson (Assassin Nation, Dracula, Motherf**ker), Francesco Francavilla (Night of the Ghoul, Detective Comics) and L. Marlow Francavilla, and more!

Collects Creepshow #1-5.]]> 128 Anwita Citriya 1534398953 Shivesh 3 comics 3.60 2023
author: Anwita Citriya
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/19
date added: 2025/02/20
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 210177656
Writer Tom King and artist Daniel Sampere have taken Wonder Woman from Goddess to an enemy of the state in their critically acclaimed Wonder Woman series in the Dawn of DC. Captured by a team of villains, Diana Prince finds herself up against the nemesis of our story, The Sovereign, wielding the Lasso of Lies. As her new adversary tightens the grip on Wonder Woman¡¯s psyche, will she prove victorious over the web of Amazon lies weaved in Man¡¯s World?]]> 160 Tom King 177952840X Shivesh 2
This collection felt particularly jarring due to its alignment with DC's recent Absolute Power event, making the reading experience disjointed. The sporadic issues and inconsistent art further detracted from the overall tone of Tom King's work here, which I found unengaging and a desperate reach for a theme that is just out of sight.

However, what stood out was the intriguing psychological depth this volume brought to Wonder Woman¡¯s character. It offered a unique dive into her psyche, making it a fascinating read in its own way. For readers who appreciate the nuanced, psychological exploration of superheroes, this volume is worth picking up. Despite the narrative flaws, I'm glad I read it, and I am curious to see where Tom King takes the character next, especially if future installments promise more action.

As for the villain Sovereign, there's certainly potential, but as of now, he seems rather ineffective. It will be interesting to see if his character development picks up in future volumes. Overall, this collection is best suited for mature readers who can appreciate the deeper psychological undertones, despite its narrative missteps.]]> 3.56 2024
author: Tom King
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.56
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2025/02/06
date added: 2025/02/16
shelves:
review:
Wonder Woman, Vol. 2: Sacrifice, unfortunately, couldn¡¯t mask its meandering narrative with its stunning art alone. The themes in this volume are praiseworthy, diving into the complex relationship Wonder Woman has with humanity and relationships, a topic ripe for exploration. The sapphic vibe of the last issue of the Sacrifice arc was intriguing - I understand why WW is seen as an icon in some sets.

This collection felt particularly jarring due to its alignment with DC's recent Absolute Power event, making the reading experience disjointed. The sporadic issues and inconsistent art further detracted from the overall tone of Tom King's work here, which I found unengaging and a desperate reach for a theme that is just out of sight.

However, what stood out was the intriguing psychological depth this volume brought to Wonder Woman¡¯s character. It offered a unique dive into her psyche, making it a fascinating read in its own way. For readers who appreciate the nuanced, psychological exploration of superheroes, this volume is worth picking up. Despite the narrative flaws, I'm glad I read it, and I am curious to see where Tom King takes the character next, especially if future installments promise more action.

As for the villain Sovereign, there's certainly potential, but as of now, he seems rather ineffective. It will be interesting to see if his character development picks up in future volumes. Overall, this collection is best suited for mature readers who can appreciate the deeper psychological undertones, despite its narrative missteps.
]]> 60626027 In Batman's second year of his crusade against crime, while he is still changing and perfecting his craft and the art of the vigilante, the cowardly lot of criminals in the city are changing as well¡ªgiving rise to darker, specialized rogues.

Two of the new, colorful rogues, Riddler and Catwoman, have just pulled off the heist of the century, robbing Wayne-Gotham Securities, getting away with 1.5 million in cash. After the robbery, after a few dead guards, with all of Gotham including Batman searching for them, they meet with their backer, Penguin, the man who will wash their money, take his cut, and secure their escape. And Riddler shoots Penguin in the gut, grabs the loot, and turns to Catwoman. ¡°It¡¯s ours, all of it. All we got to do is escape this city.¡±

Riddler and Catwoman take to the road, both weighing how long they can go before they need to take the other out. And as they move about the city they¡¯re hunted by an inexperienced Batman who knows two things: One, he¡¯ll need to be better than he¡¯s ever been to catch these two psychopaths; two, Penguin survived and if he gets to them first, it¡¯ll be a bloodbath like Gotham¡¯s never seen.

Three villains, one Dark Knight, and a deadly heist gone wrong. Catwoman, the Riddler, and the Penguin join forces to pull off the greatest robbery in the history of Gotham City. And their prize? A mysterious and priceless artifact in the secret possession of Bruce Wayne! But, as the events unfold, what fun is a heist without a bloody double-cross or two? The blockbuster team of Tom King and David Marquez brings an epic, white-knuckled, action-packed tale of a young Batman desperate to recover his most prized possession from a host of violent rogues before the clock strikes the Killing Time...

Batman: Killing Time collects the entire 6-issue limited series!]]> 208 Tom King 1779516983 Shivesh 0 comics, library-vegas
In this miniseries, Penguin is depicted as a fully developed crime overlord, and Killer Croc is already mutated and well into his life of crime. The rogue¡¯s gallery appears robust and established. Catwoman, in particular, is portrayed with a depth that suggests many years of experience, adding a rich, textured layer to her character. It doesn't jive with a youthful Batman.

The narrative revolves around a MacGuffin of sorts¡ªan ancient artifact that Bruce Wayne has had in his possession since his days of training under Ra's al Ghul. This artifact becomes the central focus, driving the story forward as various villains vie to get their hands on it. Unfortunately, there's much history to unpack, which Tom King doesn't delve into deeply enough. The tale is hyper-stylized, rife with self-referential and narrative tricks that become exhausting halfway through. The timeline jumps around excessively, with no reasonable need, making it a chore to keep track of events.

However, the art by David Marquez is the true savior of this volume. Dynamic, forceful, and meticulously composed, you can follow much of the action without even needing to read the word bubbles, which are typically verbose and not very informative in the long run. This verbose nature is just Tom King's style, something we've come to expect over time.

The plot kicks off with Catwoman and the Riddler pulling off a heist that sets off a chain reaction involving a slew of Gotham's villains. We see Batman in hot pursuit, trying to untangle the web of betrayal and deceit that surrounds the artifact, which is variously described as the "eye of God". The storyline weaves in elements of Gotham's criminal underworld, showcasing the intricate relationships and power struggles that define it.

Throughout the series, the characterization of Batman is spot on as it gets. He's depicted as a detective, a thinker, and a strategist, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the Dark Knight. The interplay between him and the villains adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, making it an engaging read.

Batman mythos abound through this volume, making it a treasure trove for fans. Despite its narrative quirks, Killing Time is a great read for a weekend evening, best enjoyed with a nice glass of wine and the cold wind howling outside. The art alone makes it worth the journey.]]> 3.60 2022
author: Tom King
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/16
date added: 2025/02/16
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
I admired the art throughout in this six-issue miniseries published in 2022. This story nestles perfectly between the larger mythology and epochs of Batman's early years. Here, we see a young Bruce Wayne¡ªstill being tested but profoundly confident in his nascent role as Gotham's protector. What stands out, however, is the highly developed state of the villains, which feels a bit incongruous if this was truly only the second or third year of Batman's career.

In this miniseries, Penguin is depicted as a fully developed crime overlord, and Killer Croc is already mutated and well into his life of crime. The rogue¡¯s gallery appears robust and established. Catwoman, in particular, is portrayed with a depth that suggests many years of experience, adding a rich, textured layer to her character. It doesn't jive with a youthful Batman.

The narrative revolves around a MacGuffin of sorts¡ªan ancient artifact that Bruce Wayne has had in his possession since his days of training under Ra's al Ghul. This artifact becomes the central focus, driving the story forward as various villains vie to get their hands on it. Unfortunately, there's much history to unpack, which Tom King doesn't delve into deeply enough. The tale is hyper-stylized, rife with self-referential and narrative tricks that become exhausting halfway through. The timeline jumps around excessively, with no reasonable need, making it a chore to keep track of events.

However, the art by David Marquez is the true savior of this volume. Dynamic, forceful, and meticulously composed, you can follow much of the action without even needing to read the word bubbles, which are typically verbose and not very informative in the long run. This verbose nature is just Tom King's style, something we've come to expect over time.

The plot kicks off with Catwoman and the Riddler pulling off a heist that sets off a chain reaction involving a slew of Gotham's villains. We see Batman in hot pursuit, trying to untangle the web of betrayal and deceit that surrounds the artifact, which is variously described as the "eye of God". The storyline weaves in elements of Gotham's criminal underworld, showcasing the intricate relationships and power struggles that define it.

Throughout the series, the characterization of Batman is spot on as it gets. He's depicted as a detective, a thinker, and a strategist, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the Dark Knight. The interplay between him and the villains adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, making it an engaging read.

Batman mythos abound through this volume, making it a treasure trove for fans. Despite its narrative quirks, Killing Time is a great read for a weekend evening, best enjoyed with a nice glass of wine and the cold wind howling outside. The art alone makes it worth the journey.
]]> 173476243
The Illuminati, a secret group of the smartest heroes in Marvel, must form once again to stop the Maker from his plans to destroy ¡ª or perhaps rebuild ¡ª the universe, with Miles Morales at the center of it all! The Maker plans to make sure Earth¡¯s Mightiest Heroes never become heroes at all. And then he can reshape the universe into exactly what he wants it to be¡­

Ultimate Invasion (2023) 1-4]]> 176 Jonathan Hickman 1302954849 Shivesh 3 comics, library-vegas 3.65 2024
author: Jonathan Hickman
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.65
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/16
date added: 2025/02/16
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 57557794 192 Yuto Suzuki 408882685X Shivesh 3 library-vegas, manga 4.30 2021
author: Yuto Suzuki
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/15
date added: 2025/02/16
shelves: library-vegas, manga
review:

]]> 133206522
THE AGE OF MONSTERS HAS BEGUN! As an enraged Hulk tries to take control of Bruce Banner¡¯s body permanently, a mysterious immortal turns every monster in the Marvel Universe against Banner in an attempt to free their creator, the primordial Mother of Horrors. With the help of an unlikely new friend, Banner and Hulk must try to stop the world from getting plunged into darkness!

?Incredible Hulk (2023) 1-5]]> 168 Phillip Kennedy Johnson 1302954164 Shivesh 4 comics 3.76 2024
author: Phillip Kennedy Johnson
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/14
date added: 2025/02/14
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 32961082
This moody and evocative manga gets back to the dark foundations of the Cthulhu Mythos, adapting three of H.P. Lovecraft's original stories that first shaped the outlines of cosmic horror!

Contents:
- The Temple
- The Hound
- The Nameless City]]> 184 Gou Tanabe 1506703127 Shivesh 4 manga, library-vegas 3.83 2014
author: Gou Tanabe
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/11
date added: 2025/02/11
shelves: manga, library-vegas
review:

]]> 90274680
2023 Eisner Nominee - Best Limited Series

Bane broke the Bat¡ªhe¡¯s one of the only villains to ever truly vanquish the Dark Knight¡ªbut is that all he¡¯s ever accomplished?

Decades from now, Bane is a washed-up wrestler reliving his glory days in the ring, defeating someone dressed like Batman every day. But when he discovers that there¡¯s a new source of Venom in the world, he¡¯ll do everything he can to shut down the facility it¡¯s coming from for good and make sure that no one takes the poison that ruined his life.

An epic saga set throughout Bane¡¯s life, expanding on the hopes, dreams, regrets, and failures of one of DC¡¯s most legendary villains, brought to you by the iconic creative team of Joshua Williamson ( Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths , The Flash ) and Howard Porter ( The Flash , Justice League ).]]> 80 Joshua Williamson 1779520352 Shivesh 2

The panels and designs are quite busy, resembling a storyboard more than anything else. The sketched-out art lacks detail and is, at best, middling and unremarkable. I struggled to see how this wasn't just another day in the life of Bane and not "one bad day".]]> 3.48
author: Joshua Williamson
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.48
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2025/01/26
date added: 2025/02/04
shelves:
review:


The panels and designs are quite busy, resembling a storyboard more than anything else. The sketched-out art lacks detail and is, at best, middling and unremarkable. I struggled to see how this wasn't just another day in the life of Bane and not "one bad day".
]]> 199392446
After a mysterious Amazonian is accused of mass murder, the U.S. Congress passes The Amazon Safety Act, barring all Amazons from American soil. To carry out its new law, the government sets up the Amazon Extradition Entity (AXE) task force to remove those who don¡¯t comply by any means necessary.

In her search for the truth behind the killing, Wonder Woman now finds herself an outlaw in the world she once swore to protect.]]> 164 Tom King 1779525451 Shivesh 4 comics, library-vegas


Tom King introduces intriguing ideas and aspects of Wonder Woman, especially in issues one and three of this collection. This portrayal is much more somber, reflective, and distant than the Wonder Woman I grew up with. She always seemed like a sidekick to the "big two," but in this collection, she emerges as a unique exemplar of what almost feels like an alien race¡ªthe Amazons are definitely not like us. Just look at the panels, and you'll see the incredible composition of the art, the exquisite coloring, and the dynamic placement. This is why I continue reading.



I must admit, though, that there were multiple pages of long exposition and unnecessary meandering dialogue that I skipped over because they didn't contribute much to the story or characterizations. Much of the story's dynamism comes from the art, as Daniel's work effectively conveys the narrative. I'm eagerly looking forward to the next volume. Four stars for the art, but it could have been five if the story had been better.

I appreciate the vibe, even if I'm not entirely sold on the plot. The villain, a shadowy old man known as The Sovereign, has apparently been running America since its inception through his secretive family. The reasons for his power remain unknown and unexplained, leaving us waiting for more answers. Tom King has publicly stated that he plans to write this series for 100 issues, so it seems we're in for a long ride.

I originally picked up this book to read with my young daughter, but the themes and story patterns are too dark and far-fetched for a little girl. I might explore some older Wonder Woman issues to share with her when the world was a bit less dark. As a final note, the last issue reminds me heavily of "The Winter Soldier" with its conspiratorial tone, which will be interesting to see how it plays out in future issues. Onward!

]]> 4.00 2024
author: Tom King
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/04
date added: 2025/02/04
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
Echoing the sentiments of many comic reviewers, I must say that what truly stands out in the first five issues of this new series is the breathtaking art. As someone who primarily reads indie and Marvel comics, I was unfamiliar with Daniel Sampere's work. However, his images and dynamic style immediately caught my eye and left a lasting impression. I only wish that the story matched the quality of the art.



Tom King introduces intriguing ideas and aspects of Wonder Woman, especially in issues one and three of this collection. This portrayal is much more somber, reflective, and distant than the Wonder Woman I grew up with. She always seemed like a sidekick to the "big two," but in this collection, she emerges as a unique exemplar of what almost feels like an alien race¡ªthe Amazons are definitely not like us. Just look at the panels, and you'll see the incredible composition of the art, the exquisite coloring, and the dynamic placement. This is why I continue reading.



I must admit, though, that there were multiple pages of long exposition and unnecessary meandering dialogue that I skipped over because they didn't contribute much to the story or characterizations. Much of the story's dynamism comes from the art, as Daniel's work effectively conveys the narrative. I'm eagerly looking forward to the next volume. Four stars for the art, but it could have been five if the story had been better.

I appreciate the vibe, even if I'm not entirely sold on the plot. The villain, a shadowy old man known as The Sovereign, has apparently been running America since its inception through his secretive family. The reasons for his power remain unknown and unexplained, leaving us waiting for more answers. Tom King has publicly stated that he plans to write this series for 100 issues, so it seems we're in for a long ride.

I originally picked up this book to read with my young daughter, but the themes and story patterns are too dark and far-fetched for a little girl. I might explore some older Wonder Woman issues to share with her when the world was a bit less dark. As a final note, the last issue reminds me heavily of "The Winter Soldier" with its conspiratorial tone, which will be interesting to see how it plays out in future issues. Onward!


]]> 18809235 We Are All One follows our cast around the fractured future-scape of America as we learn more about a world that's rapidly coming to a end.

Collecting: East Of West 6-10]]> 144 Jonathan Hickman 1607068559 Shivesh 2 comics, library-vegas 4.08 2014
author: Jonathan Hickman
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2014
rating: 2
read at: 2025/02/03
date added: 2025/02/03
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
This volume did not get much better other than Nick Dragotta's art. Overall the story was incomprehensible and disjointed.
]]> 17929637 Death.

Collecting: East Of West 1-5]]> 152 Jonathan Hickman 1607067706 Shivesh 2
One of the main issues with this volume is the shortened format with plenty of blank space, which seems to cram too much story into too few pages. This results in a narrative that feels rushed and incomplete. While there is a considerable amount of world-building, crucial details are left out or not fully fleshed out, leaving the reader with an incomplete understanding of the setting. The characterizations, particularly those of the Four Horsemen, fail to resonate. Everyone has their own relationship with the personification of Death, but in this story, he doesn't seem to have much depth beyond resembling Garth Ennis' Saint of All Killers.

The pacing of the story is another issue. The volume is a relatively quick read, and while the art is serviceable, it doesn't leave a lasting impression. I've been spoiled lately by incredible artists in other books, so the artwork here feels lackluster in comparison. Despite these shortcomings, the volume does earn some points for its imaginative world-building and the intriguing concept it presents. It is this imaginative spark that gives me hope for future volumes.

In conclusion, this book is a mixed bag. While it has an exciting premise and some interesting concepts, it ultimately falls short in execution. There is no depth in this world.

I'll still give the second volume a chance in the hope that it improves upon the groundwork laid in this one. Two stars for creativity and world-building, but here's hoping for a more cohesive and engaging story in the next installment.]]> 3.91 2013
author: Jonathan Hickman
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2013
rating: 2
read at: 2025/02/02
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves: comics, library-vegas, science-fictional
review:
Jonathan Hickman is known as a generational writer in the superhero genre, so when he ventures into independent work, readers expect something truly mind-bending and captivating. The concept of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse amidst a post-apocalyptic, futuristic Western landscape is certainly intriguing and has the potential to spark all kinds of excitement, especially in the hands of a master storyteller. However, volume 1 falls short of these high expectations.

One of the main issues with this volume is the shortened format with plenty of blank space, which seems to cram too much story into too few pages. This results in a narrative that feels rushed and incomplete. While there is a considerable amount of world-building, crucial details are left out or not fully fleshed out, leaving the reader with an incomplete understanding of the setting. The characterizations, particularly those of the Four Horsemen, fail to resonate. Everyone has their own relationship with the personification of Death, but in this story, he doesn't seem to have much depth beyond resembling Garth Ennis' Saint of All Killers.

The pacing of the story is another issue. The volume is a relatively quick read, and while the art is serviceable, it doesn't leave a lasting impression. I've been spoiled lately by incredible artists in other books, so the artwork here feels lackluster in comparison. Despite these shortcomings, the volume does earn some points for its imaginative world-building and the intriguing concept it presents. It is this imaginative spark that gives me hope for future volumes.

In conclusion, this book is a mixed bag. While it has an exciting premise and some interesting concepts, it ultimately falls short in execution. There is no depth in this world.

I'll still give the second volume a chance in the hope that it improves upon the groundwork laid in this one. Two stars for creativity and world-building, but here's hoping for a more cohesive and engaging story in the next installment.
]]> 207571115 From legendary comics writer Dan Jurgens and superstar Batman artist Mike Perkins comes a pulp-influenced noir take on the caped crusader set in his debut year, 1939.

It¡¯s 1939, fascism is on the rise, and Batman is in his early days, labeled by those in Gotham as ¡°the vigilante¡±. At the center of a series of crimes, Batman comes to the conclusion that their prime suspect in each case were deceased. With the Caped Crusader¡¯s only ally being Detective James Gordon of the Gotham City Police Department, both detectives must uncover who these ¡°reanimated criminals¡± are and how to stop them.]]> 168 Dan Jurgens 1779527918 Shivesh 5 comics, library-vegas 3.79
author: Dan Jurgens
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.79
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/27
date added: 2025/02/01
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 61822757
2023 Eisner Nominee - Best Limited Series

The Penguin's criminal enterprise and the Iceberg Lounge have been stolen from underneath him by his former associate the Umbrella Man. The Umbrella Man has removed all of the rules for crime in Gotham City that the Penguin put in place, and the city is in chaos. The Penguin is a broken man, and he'll have to travel through the burning streets of Gotham with a gun and a single bullet putting together a new crew to take back what he's built. Will Batman help the devil he knows or face the devil he doesn't in the form of the Umbrella Man? A crime epic from the team behind the critically acclaimed?Other History of the DC Universe,?John Ridley?and?Giuseppe Camuncoli--don't miss it!]]> 88 John Ridley 1779520301 Shivesh 3 comics, library-vegas 3.58
author: John Ridley
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.58
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/27
date added: 2025/01/28
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 204238287 Buried deep beneath Gotham City there exists another Gotham.

Multi-Eisner award winner Christian Ward unleashes this cosmic-horror epic of the twisted Gotham Below.

Buried deep beneath Gotham City there exists another Gotham. This Gotham Below is a living nightmare, populated by twisted mirrors of our Gotham¡¯s denizens, fueled by the fear and hatred flowing down from above. For decades, the doorway between the cities has been sealed and heavily guarded by the Court of Owls. But now the door swings wide, and the twisted version of the Dark Knight has escaped¡­to trap and train a Robin of his own.

Batman must form an uneasy alliance with the Court and its deadly allies to stop him¡ªand to hold back the wave of twisted super-villains, nightmarish versions of his own nemeses, each one worse than the last, that¡¯s spilling into his streets!]]> 160 Christian Ward 1779527020 Shivesh 4 comics 3.72
author: Christian Ward
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.72
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/25
date added: 2025/01/25
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 55980428 192 Yuto Suzuki 4088826574 Shivesh 3 manga, library-vegas 4.25 2021
author: Yuto Suzuki
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/20
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: manga, library-vegas
review:

]]> 203166824
Collecting AVENGERS: TWILIGHT #1-6.]]> 208 Chip Zdarsky 1302921487 Shivesh 4 comics, library-vegas 4.07
author: Chip Zdarsky
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.07
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/20
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 220240982 136 Steve Orlando 1302960024 Shivesh 2 comics 2.91
author: Steve Orlando
name: Shivesh
average rating: 2.91
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2025/01/14
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 755528 96 Tom Sniegoski 0785107290 Shivesh 2 comics
One of the standout features of this miniseries is the artwork. It is ahead of its time and distinctly anime-inspired rather than manga panels. The action shots are dynamic and vividly drawn, capturing the frenetic energy often seen in anime. This visual style sets it apart and gives the series a unique flair that resonates with fans of Japanese animation.

However, the story is where the series falters. The narrative is disjointed and confusing, making it difficult to follow. The characterization of the Punisher as anything other than a street-level character feels out of place and fails to connect with traditional fans like myself. The Punisher, especially from the '80s and '90s, is a character driven by revenge, operating with simple motivations and focusing on punishing criminals and super-criminals. Introducing larger, more celestial themes during this era strays from his core identity and feels contrived.

In the collected edition by Jason Aaron that recently finished a short run, I noticed a similar trend toward a supernatural Punisher. This version of the character feels deeply contra-factual to his normal abilities, and the internal logic just doesn't hold up. For instance, the idea that he has a magical pocket in his trenchcoat that can produce any weapon he thinks of feels outlandish and unnecessary. It raises questions about what happens if he removes the trench coat¡ªdoes he lose this ability?

Wolverine, on the other hand, remains true to his character. Logan is solid in this series, delivering the gritty, no-nonsense persona that fans have come to expect. Unfortunately, the villain in this storyline is forgettable, and the concept of a council of evil angels falls flat. These elements fail to provide a compelling antagonist or a satisfying conflict.

Overall, "Wolverine/Punisher: Revelation" is a mixed bag. The art is a definite highlight and might appeal to those who appreciate an anime-inspired aesthetic. However, the story's lack of cohesion and the unconvincing portrayal of the Punisher detract from the overall experience. Unless you're a die-hard fan of Wolverine and Punisher or happen to find this series in a dollar bin, it is for passing on. It's a reminder that while experimentation in storytelling can lead to fresh and exciting narratives, it can also result in misses that don't quite hit the mark.]]> 2.60 2000
author: Tom Sniegoski
name: Shivesh
average rating: 2.60
book published: 2000
rating: 2
read at: 2025/01/07
date added: 2025/01/07
shelves: comics
review:
This four-issue miniseries, Wolverine/Punisher: Revelation, was published in 1999 during the Marvel Knights era¡ªa period when Marvel aimed to inject more edginess and mature themes into their comics, catering to a growing-up audience. As someone who was transitioning out of my '90s childhood and into the real world, I vaguely remember this push for a more adult-oriented storytelling approach but by this time I was well out of the floppies of my youth and did not keep up with this era much at all. However I do remember the Garth Ennis Punisher from this time: iconic and memorable.

One of the standout features of this miniseries is the artwork. It is ahead of its time and distinctly anime-inspired rather than manga panels. The action shots are dynamic and vividly drawn, capturing the frenetic energy often seen in anime. This visual style sets it apart and gives the series a unique flair that resonates with fans of Japanese animation.

However, the story is where the series falters. The narrative is disjointed and confusing, making it difficult to follow. The characterization of the Punisher as anything other than a street-level character feels out of place and fails to connect with traditional fans like myself. The Punisher, especially from the '80s and '90s, is a character driven by revenge, operating with simple motivations and focusing on punishing criminals and super-criminals. Introducing larger, more celestial themes during this era strays from his core identity and feels contrived.

In the collected edition by Jason Aaron that recently finished a short run, I noticed a similar trend toward a supernatural Punisher. This version of the character feels deeply contra-factual to his normal abilities, and the internal logic just doesn't hold up. For instance, the idea that he has a magical pocket in his trenchcoat that can produce any weapon he thinks of feels outlandish and unnecessary. It raises questions about what happens if he removes the trench coat¡ªdoes he lose this ability?

Wolverine, on the other hand, remains true to his character. Logan is solid in this series, delivering the gritty, no-nonsense persona that fans have come to expect. Unfortunately, the villain in this storyline is forgettable, and the concept of a council of evil angels falls flat. These elements fail to provide a compelling antagonist or a satisfying conflict.

Overall, "Wolverine/Punisher: Revelation" is a mixed bag. The art is a definite highlight and might appeal to those who appreciate an anime-inspired aesthetic. However, the story's lack of cohesion and the unconvincing portrayal of the Punisher detract from the overall experience. Unless you're a die-hard fan of Wolverine and Punisher or happen to find this series in a dollar bin, it is for passing on. It's a reminder that while experimentation in storytelling can lead to fresh and exciting narratives, it can also result in misses that don't quite hit the mark.
]]> 204191787 Ph'nglui mglw'nafh Cthulhu R'lyeh wgah'nagl fhtagn...
("In his house at R'lyeh dead Cthulhu waits dreaming.")
Now these nightmares will disturb the sanity of Francis Thurston, a young man pursuing an investigation into the cult of Cthulhu that leads to the most forsaken spot in the vast Pacific... and to Earth's supreme terror, the risen corpse-city of R'lyeh.

First published in 1928, The Call of Cthulhu, rendered in chilling detail by modern manga horror master Gou Tanabe, is the most famous of all of H.P. Lovecraft's stories, and was the namesake of the acclaimed role-playing game system set within the Cthulhu Mythos.]]> 282 Gou Tanabe 1506741401 Shivesh 5 4.31 2019
author: Gou Tanabe
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/06
date added: 2025/01/06
shelves:
review:

]]> 58155177
Set in the years after a nuclear war ravaged the planet, desperate outlaws battle for survival in a world of radioactive chaos. Out past the poisoned wasteland lives a man even the Nightcrawlers and Organ People fear. Some call him Joe Glow, others call him the Meltdown Man. But his name¡­is Geiger.

Collects GEIGER #1-6]]> 160 Geoff Johns 1534320024 Shivesh 4 comics, library-vegas 3.97 2021
author: Geoff Johns
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/04
date added: 2025/01/04
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 123841334 With three kingdoms on the brink of war, Batman is in hiding, recovering from an attack and a shocking betrayal.

But Batman finds he¡¯s not the only unfortunate soul to be taken in by his surprise rescuers-strange, magical youngsters have been given sanctuary alongside the bastard prince, Bruce Wayne. Will these teen outcasts change everything Batman believes in? Or will they perish at the hands of a demon?

DC Dark Knights of Steel Vol. 2 picks up where Vol. 1 left off, collecting Dark Knights of Steel #7-12, Dark Knights of Steel: Tales from the Three Kingdoms #1!]]> 208 Tom Taylor 1779520794 Shivesh 3 comics, library-vegas
The volume delves into the heroes' pasts, revealing pivotal moments that define their present. These stories add rich layers to their characters, enhancing our understanding and deepening our connection to them. The intricate world-building and character development are top-notch, making this volume a captivating read for any fan.

Overall, Vol. 2 is a must-read for fans of Superman and the entire DC Universe. The imagination and the world building is admirable, but the story somehow feels too rushed despite having twelve issues.

I can say the artwork got a little lazy at the end, but overall earned its keep.]]> 3.64 2023
author: Tom Taylor
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/02
date added: 2025/01/02
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
So this second volume pumps up the action and the characterizations. Kal-El, this reality's Superman, embodies heroism and moral integrity, facing challenges that push him to his limits and showcase his fundamentally kind nature.

The volume delves into the heroes' pasts, revealing pivotal moments that define their present. These stories add rich layers to their characters, enhancing our understanding and deepening our connection to them. The intricate world-building and character development are top-notch, making this volume a captivating read for any fan.

Overall, Vol. 2 is a must-read for fans of Superman and the entire DC Universe. The imagination and the world building is admirable, but the story somehow feels too rushed despite having twelve issues.

I can say the artwork got a little lazy at the end, but overall earned its keep.
]]> 58505917
COLLECTING: Amazing Fantasy (2021) 1-5]]> 144 Kaare Andrews 1302931482 Shivesh 2 fantastical 2.98 2022
author: Kaare Andrews
name: Shivesh
average rating: 2.98
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2024/12/23
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: fantastical
review:
It took me a long time to get through these five issues in floppies. I'm not sure why. The story itself is intriguing, premise as well planned. Execution just doesn't fire on all cylinders. Our famous heroes all have alternate versions in this universe, fantastical versions. But the story just kind of meanders, and comes too fast of a conclusion to wrap everything up. Hopefully they try this again in a long form or ongoing comic so they can flesh out some of the themes and world building a little more.
]]> 220960211
Get ready to climb aboard the Sea Quest and embark for adventure once more! Legendary boy explorer JONNY QUEST is back, along with his intrepid scientist dad Dr. Benton Quest, bodyguard "Race" Bannon, adopted brother Hadji, and all the rest of the beloved cast from the classic animated series!

This action-packed new title begins where the show left off in 1964, but things quickly take a turn for the uncanny as they team returns from an experiment at sea to their home base in Palm Key, only to discover that the once-familiar landscape is now strangely, disquietingly different!

Superstar writer JOE CASEY (Superman, Ben 10) and powerhouse artist SEBASTI?N PIRIZ (We Ride Titans, Deadweights) join together to bring you the brand-new tales of Jonny and the Quest team that the world has been waiting for.

Contains issues 1 thru 5 of the series.]]> 136 Joe Casey 1524127582 Shivesh 4 comics 4.00
author: Joe Casey
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/27
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: comics
review:
I was able to read these in floppies as they came out. A nightly reading ritual with my son before bedtime - joining in the adventures of Jonny and his crew as they traveled through time to meet themselves as aged adventurers. Joe Casey really taps into the nostalgic feel of the 60s and 70s with this first five issues. The evil Dr. Zin is a true star, really bringing out the villainy that's needed to make a story like this work.
]]> 61273412 The Eisner-nominated, definitive hardcover collection of the tragic and enchanting story of death and immortality from award-winning writer Ram V!

Humanity is on the verge of discovering immortality. As a result, the avatar of Death is cast down to Earth to live a mortal life in Mumbai as twenty-something Laila Starr. Struggling with her newfound mortality, Laila has found a way to be placed in the time and place where the creator of immortality will be born. Will Laila take her chance to stop mankind from permanently altering the cycle of life, or will death really become a thing of the past??

An Eisner-nominated, best-selling graphic novel from award-winning writer Ram V (These Savage Shores, Swamp Thing) and Filipe Andrade (Captain Marvel) that explores the fine line between living and dying through the lens of magical realism. Collects The Many Deaths of Laila Starr #1-5.]]> 144 Ram V. 1684159164 Shivesh 5 comics, library-vegas
The narrative centers on goddess Death herself, who, upon being rendered obsolete by the birth of a child destined to eliminate death, is cast down to Earth and reincarnated as a mortal named Laila Starr. This existential journey forces her to grapple with the very essence of mortality and the multifaceted human condition.

Laila finds herself navigating the bustling streets of Mumbai¡ªa city that brims with life, color, and chaos. The child whose existence threatens the role of Death is born in this vibrant metropolis, and Laila¡¯s mission to understand humanity¡¯s relationship with mortality unfolds across various timelines and perspectives. Each encounter and experience leads her to profound insights about life, loss, and what it means to truly live. This episodic structure allows each chapter to stand alone while seamlessly contributing to the overarching narrative, making it both accessible and deeply engaging.

Andrade¡¯s artistry paired with Amaro's masterful coloring work captures the essence of Mumbai in all its glory¡ªthe vivid hues and intricate details infuse each panel with an otherworldly vibrancy that leaps from the page. The coloring work is especially noteworthy, as it accentuates the beauty of India in an authentic and evocative manner. The bustling markets, serene temples, and crowded streets are depicted with such rich texture and depth that readers can almost feel the pulse of the city. This reminded me much of my young childhood, filled with hazy, fragrant memories from my homeland.

The portrayal of India is not just a backdrop; it is integral to the narrative¡¯s emotional resonance. The colors transition fluidly from the serene blues of contemplative moments to the fiery oranges and reds of intense action sequences, reflecting the multifaceted nature of life and death that Laila is trying to comprehend. The lush greens of the countryside and the golden light of the sunsets add a layer of realism and magic, bridging the gap between the real and the ethereal.

The thematic exploration of redemption is emphasized by Laila's repeated deaths and rebirths -- they symbolize her quest for understanding and her gradual transformation. Through her interactions with various characters¡ªeach representing different facets of humanity¡ªshe learns about love, loss, and the enduring impact of our actions. These themes resonate deeply, offering readers a contemplative look at their own lives and the choices they make. She reflects our own understandings as we grow into old age.

The Many Deaths of Laila Starr is more than just a story; it is a philosophical journey that invites readers to ponder the intricacies of existence. The narrative¡¯s depth is matched by its stunning visual storytelling, making it a must-read for those who appreciate a tale that delves deep into the human psyche while celebrating the beauty of life. It is, in essence, a compelling exploration of the fine line between life and death, offering readers a unique perspective on what it means to truly live and to do it without regrets and without fear of Death.]]> 4.44 2022
author: Ram V.
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.44
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/04
date added: 2024/11/05
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
The Many Deaths of Laila Starr, penned by the ingenious Ram V and brought to vivid life by artist Filipe Andrade, is a tour de force. Ram V notes in his afterword that he has been in contemplation of these ideas for many years, and it shows: this is a profound meditation on life and death through the immersive lens of magical realism. Rushidie's legacy is plain in these stories from the subcontinent.

The narrative centers on goddess Death herself, who, upon being rendered obsolete by the birth of a child destined to eliminate death, is cast down to Earth and reincarnated as a mortal named Laila Starr. This existential journey forces her to grapple with the very essence of mortality and the multifaceted human condition.

Laila finds herself navigating the bustling streets of Mumbai¡ªa city that brims with life, color, and chaos. The child whose existence threatens the role of Death is born in this vibrant metropolis, and Laila¡¯s mission to understand humanity¡¯s relationship with mortality unfolds across various timelines and perspectives. Each encounter and experience leads her to profound insights about life, loss, and what it means to truly live. This episodic structure allows each chapter to stand alone while seamlessly contributing to the overarching narrative, making it both accessible and deeply engaging.

Andrade¡¯s artistry paired with Amaro's masterful coloring work captures the essence of Mumbai in all its glory¡ªthe vivid hues and intricate details infuse each panel with an otherworldly vibrancy that leaps from the page. The coloring work is especially noteworthy, as it accentuates the beauty of India in an authentic and evocative manner. The bustling markets, serene temples, and crowded streets are depicted with such rich texture and depth that readers can almost feel the pulse of the city. This reminded me much of my young childhood, filled with hazy, fragrant memories from my homeland.

The portrayal of India is not just a backdrop; it is integral to the narrative¡¯s emotional resonance. The colors transition fluidly from the serene blues of contemplative moments to the fiery oranges and reds of intense action sequences, reflecting the multifaceted nature of life and death that Laila is trying to comprehend. The lush greens of the countryside and the golden light of the sunsets add a layer of realism and magic, bridging the gap between the real and the ethereal.

The thematic exploration of redemption is emphasized by Laila's repeated deaths and rebirths -- they symbolize her quest for understanding and her gradual transformation. Through her interactions with various characters¡ªeach representing different facets of humanity¡ªshe learns about love, loss, and the enduring impact of our actions. These themes resonate deeply, offering readers a contemplative look at their own lives and the choices they make. She reflects our own understandings as we grow into old age.

The Many Deaths of Laila Starr is more than just a story; it is a philosophical journey that invites readers to ponder the intricacies of existence. The narrative¡¯s depth is matched by its stunning visual storytelling, making it a must-read for those who appreciate a tale that delves deep into the human psyche while celebrating the beauty of life. It is, in essence, a compelling exploration of the fine line between life and death, offering readers a unique perspective on what it means to truly live and to do it without regrets and without fear of Death.
]]> 216331699 192 Geoff Johns 1534367365 Shivesh 5 comics, library-vegas
The world he builds is as compelling as it is terrifying, where every corner turned brings new challenges and revelations. The characters¡ªeach uniquely scarred by their dystopian environment¡ªare incredibly relatable and complex. Rook, Dire Wolf and others are unique creations.

Rook is a scavenger eking out a survival in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, controlling a flock of crows with his helm, which is itself jacked into the worldwide grid.

Johns doesn¡¯t merely use the wasteland setting as a backdrop; it becomes a character in its own right, filled with savage warlords, corrupted AI, and ruins that whisper of a lost civilization founded by a corrupt interspace corporation. The atmosphere is thick with tension, creating a sense of urgency that propels the story forward.

This first volume lays a robust foundation, not only in terms of plot but also in setting the emotional stakes high. It dives deep into the madness and beauty of survival, posing profound questions about what it means to be human in a world gone mad. The action scenes are brutal and unflinching, yet they are interspersed with moments of introspection and heart, adding layers to the narrative.

Rook Exodus Vol 1 is a wild ride through a radioactive hellscape, offering more than just a story; it's an exploration of human nature, resilience, and redemption. It challenges readers to confront their deepest fears and hopes, making it a compelling read.

I finished issue 6 today, which is the end of the first story arc. This ends on a bit of a tantalizing cliffhanger but the goal set up for our protagonists to find a leader of this world who has essentially lost his mind in the wilderness. Looking forward to the next issue coming out somewhere in 2025.]]> 4.15 2025
author: Geoff Johns
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/28
date added: 2024/10/28
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
Rook Exodus Vol 1 pulses with a visceral energy that immediately grips you. The narrative throbs with brutal action, poignant moments, and existential dread, all masterfully woven together by comics stalwart Geoff Johns. Unlike a mere string of chases and fights, Johns crafts a rich tapestry of human resilience and a desperate quest for redemption in a post-colonized world.

The world he builds is as compelling as it is terrifying, where every corner turned brings new challenges and revelations. The characters¡ªeach uniquely scarred by their dystopian environment¡ªare incredibly relatable and complex. Rook, Dire Wolf and others are unique creations.

Rook is a scavenger eking out a survival in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, controlling a flock of crows with his helm, which is itself jacked into the worldwide grid.

Johns doesn¡¯t merely use the wasteland setting as a backdrop; it becomes a character in its own right, filled with savage warlords, corrupted AI, and ruins that whisper of a lost civilization founded by a corrupt interspace corporation. The atmosphere is thick with tension, creating a sense of urgency that propels the story forward.

This first volume lays a robust foundation, not only in terms of plot but also in setting the emotional stakes high. It dives deep into the madness and beauty of survival, posing profound questions about what it means to be human in a world gone mad. The action scenes are brutal and unflinching, yet they are interspersed with moments of introspection and heart, adding layers to the narrative.

Rook Exodus Vol 1 is a wild ride through a radioactive hellscape, offering more than just a story; it's an exploration of human nature, resilience, and redemption. It challenges readers to confront their deepest fears and hopes, making it a compelling read.

I finished issue 6 today, which is the end of the first story arc. This ends on a bit of a tantalizing cliffhanger but the goal set up for our protagonists to find a leader of this world who has essentially lost his mind in the wilderness. Looking forward to the next issue coming out somewhere in 2025.
]]> 42873764
COLLECTING: HULKVERINES 1-3, The Totally Awesome Hulk #22]]> 112 Greg Pak 1302918354 Shivesh 2 comics, library-vegas
I read this with my son over several nights, so we were able to take in the story over time and discuss it.

The narrative falls short of its artistic brilliance. The storyline feels forced and hurried, lacking the depth and development that such a crossover deserves. The characters' interactions and plot twists seem rushed, as if crammed into a limited space without room to breathe. This hampers the emotional impact and makes the story feel superficial.]]> 3.06 2019
author: Greg Pak
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.06
book published: 2019
rating: 2
read at: 2024/10/23
date added: 2024/10/23
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
This book delivers a visual spectacle, with artwork that's nothing short of phenomenal. The artist, Ario Anindito, infuses each panel with crackling energy. The visuals alone make this comic a feast for the eyes.

I read this with my son over several nights, so we were able to take in the story over time and discuss it.

The narrative falls short of its artistic brilliance. The storyline feels forced and hurried, lacking the depth and development that such a crossover deserves. The characters' interactions and plot twists seem rushed, as if crammed into a limited space without room to breathe. This hampers the emotional impact and makes the story feel superficial.
]]> 176442681 A demonically delicious culinary chronicle from the acclaimed, award-nominated team behind The Many Deaths of Laila Starr, painstakingly prepared for fans of Anthony Bourdain¡¯s Hungry Ghosts and Eat The Rich!

Discover the tantalizing tale of Rubin Baksh, a demonic Rakshasa with a down-to-earth dream of being the next Anthony Bourdain. To achieve his vision, Rubin enlists Mo, a filmmaker who has seen better days, to document the world-renowned cuisine of India and the people behind such glorious food. But little does Mo know that there¡¯s more to Rubin than meets the eye, and the mortals play a darker role in the show than they were prepared for¡­ Entice your palate and feast on the follow up offering from the Eisner, Harvey, and Ringo Award-nominated The Many Deaths of Laila Starr team of Ram V (Detective Comics, Blue In Green) and Filipe Andrade (Fantastic Four, Star) with this masterpiece marrying the supernatural, Indian cuisine, and the cutthroat world of chef-driven celebrity! Collects Rare Flavours issues #1-6.]]> 160 Ram V. 1608861538 Shivesh 5 comics, library-vegas
At its core, this graphic novel is about redemption. Characters embark on transformative journeys, their personal growth intertwined with the dishes they prepare. It's a powerful reminder that change is not only possible but can be achieved through seemingly mundane actions. Cooking, in this context, becomes a metaphor for life's broader challenges and triumphs.

The narrative's focus on recipes and the joy of cooking is particularly poignant. Each dish is more than just food; it represents memories, emotions, and connections. The joy derived from preparing and sharing a meal is palpable, underscoring the book's message that joy can be found in everyday tasks.

By highlighting the magic in the mundane, it invites readers to appreciate the beauty in their own routines and to find meaning in the simple, yet profound, act of creation. This work is a feast.]]> 4.29 2024
author: Ram V.
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/20
date added: 2024/10/23
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
Rare Flavours masterfully blends culinary arts with deeply human themes, offering us an escape into a world where the simple act of cooking is elevated to an art form. The artwork is nothing short of magical realist, each panel bursting with colors and textures evoking a dreamscape. It feels as though the pages themselves are alive.

At its core, this graphic novel is about redemption. Characters embark on transformative journeys, their personal growth intertwined with the dishes they prepare. It's a powerful reminder that change is not only possible but can be achieved through seemingly mundane actions. Cooking, in this context, becomes a metaphor for life's broader challenges and triumphs.

The narrative's focus on recipes and the joy of cooking is particularly poignant. Each dish is more than just food; it represents memories, emotions, and connections. The joy derived from preparing and sharing a meal is palpable, underscoring the book's message that joy can be found in everyday tasks.

By highlighting the magic in the mundane, it invites readers to appreciate the beauty in their own routines and to find meaning in the simple, yet profound, act of creation. This work is a feast.
]]> 216331687 The critically acclaimed team of storytellers Geoff Johns and Gary Frank return to the nuclear wasteland of GEIGER!

Picking up after the events of the first hit series, Tariq Geiger leaves his home behind and now walks the radioactive roads of the former United States with his two-headed wolf Barney. But as his enemies doggedly pursue him, Geiger discovers salvation from the unlikeliest of foes. Searching for a cure to what turned him into the Glowing Man Geiger faces new threats, uncover long-hidden secrets, and discover there are more people after him than he ever imagined. Don¡¯t miss this vital action-packed chapter in THE UNNAMED saga!

Collects GEIGER (2024) issues #1-6 and a story from GEIGER 80-PAGE GIANT]]> 176 Geoff Johns 1534380205 Shivesh 5 4.24 2025
author: Geoff Johns
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/18
date added: 2024/10/18
shelves: adventure, comics, science-fictional
review:
Johns' Geiger Vol 2 is a wild ride through radioactive post apocalyptic Western hell. Amid the neon chaos and glowing fallout of a destroyed society, there's an unmistakable pulse of humanity, even in the animals roaming the land. Tariq Geiger and Nate the Nuclear Knight are torn straight from the pages of some twisted American nightmare¡ªraw, real, and riddled with enough emotional shrapnel to make even the hardest cynic wince. This isn't just a story; it's a psychotropic trip into a world where creativity bleeds through every irradiated crack. Johns's narrative pulses with the frenetic energy of a thousand decaying atoms, each twist and turn a testament to his mad genius. You'll be hooked, haunted, and hungry for more. A goddamn masterpiece in the wasteland of modern comics. Strap in and hold on tight.
]]> 60681279 Swords! Sorcery! Superheroes! A brand-new DC Universe is born from writer Tom Taylor (DCeased, Nightwing) and artist Yasmine Putri.

An entire medieval world will be forever changed when a spaceship crash-lands from a doomed planet. Years later the El Kingdom reins and Jefferson Pierce, the head of the Kingdom of Storms sees their family as a threat and gathers allies to challenge them. Monarchs will die, kingdoms will rise, and what seemed like the end of the world for many¡­was only the beginning! An epic high-fantasy story set in a DC Universe where nothing is what it seems¡­]]> 176 Tom Taylor 1779516754 Shivesh 5 comics 3.99 2022
author: Tom Taylor
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/13
date added: 2024/10/13
shelves: comics
review:
Compelling, imaginative and well drawn.
]]> 62918551 Written by a veteran Wall Street Journal reporter, this is a fascinating deep dive into the world of billion-dollar traders and high-stakes crisis predictors who strive to turn extreme events into financial windfalls. There¡¯s no doubt that our world has gotten more extreme. Pandemics, climate change, superpower rivalries, cyberattacks, political radicalization¡ªvirtually, everywhere we look there is mayhem bearing down on us, putting trillions of assets at risk. And at least two factions have formed around how to respond. In Chaos Kings, Scott Patterson depicts how one faction, led by Nassim Nicholas Taleb, bestselling author of The Black Swan, believes humans can never see the big disaster coming. In their view, extreme events¡ªso-called Black Swans¡ªwhile inevitable, will always catch us by surprise. In 2007, Taleb¡¯s longtime collaborator, Mark Spitznagel, launched the Universa hedge fund, which would go on to make billions protecting investors against unforeseen chaos in the market. A second faction, which relies on complex formulas, believes looming chaos can be detected. Chief among these risk prognosticators is Didier Sornette, a colorful French mathematician who enjoys riding his motorcycle at speeds in excess of 170 miles per hour. When Sornette looks out from what he calls his Financial Crisis Observatory in Zurich, Switzerland, what he sees are Dragon Kings¡ªpunishing events that are unlikely to occur but have probabilities that can be predicted¡­and defended against. Which faction is right? All of our financial futures may depend on the answer.]]> 335 Scott Patterson 1982179953 Shivesh 3 business, library-vegas 3.74
author: Scott Patterson
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.74
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/07
date added: 2024/10/07
shelves: business, library-vegas
review:

]]> 219441952 130 Cliff Rathburn Shivesh 3 comics
Kudos to the creator Cliff Rathburn who clearly poured a lot of himself into this passion project. It's hard to create, design, write draw and ink everything in a modern comic. Scripting a complicated sci-fi tale is hard enough, and he did it himself.

The story really did not come together, but apparently has been set up for future volumes. Much credit to Image Comics in general for supporting artist-driven series like this. I'm not sure most of us would be still reading this art form as adults if it wasn't for creator-owned efforts.]]> 3.12
author: Cliff Rathburn
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.12
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/07
date added: 2024/10/07
shelves: comics
review:
I read this in the original floppies. I don't know where this went wrong, but the first two issues started out very promisingly, with a great premise and world-building. Unfortunately by the end, the action got drowned out in a basic confusion over the protagonist and antagonist; all the robotic and cybernetic characters in this book look the same, and were very difficult to tell apart. However the designs were excellent, highly artistic, and showed incredible imagination. I really enjoyed the art the most these four issues, and spend most of my time admiring that rather than the confusing story.

Kudos to the creator Cliff Rathburn who clearly poured a lot of himself into this passion project. It's hard to create, design, write draw and ink everything in a modern comic. Scripting a complicated sci-fi tale is hard enough, and he did it himself.

The story really did not come together, but apparently has been set up for future volumes. Much credit to Image Comics in general for supporting artist-driven series like this. I'm not sure most of us would be still reading this art form as adults if it wasn't for creator-owned efforts.
]]> 83823063
The year is 2112, and it¡¯s the apocalypse exactly as rivers receding, oceans rising, civilization crumbling. Humanity has given up hope, except for a group of Indigenous outcasts who have discovered a time travel portal in a cave in the desert and figured out where everything took a turn for the America.

Convinced that the only way to save the world is to rewrite its past, they send one of their own¡ªa reluctant linguist named Tad¡ªon a bloody, one-way mission to 1492 to kill Christopher Columbus before he reaches the so-called New World. But there are steep costs to disrupting the timeline, and taking down an icon isn¡¯t an easy task for an academic with no tactical training and only a wavering moral compass to guide him. As the horror of the task ahead unfolds and Tad¡¯s commitment is tested, his actions could trigger a devastating new fate for his friends and the future.

Join Stephen Graham Jones and artist Davide Gianfelice for Earthdivers, Vol. 1, the beginning of an unforgettable ongoing sci-fi slasher spanning centuries of America¡¯s Colonial past to explore the staggering forces of history and the individual choices we make to survive it.]]> 176 Stephen Graham Jones Shivesh 2 comics, library-vegas 3.61
author: Stephen Graham Jones
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.61
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2024/10/04
date added: 2024/10/04
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
Pretty intriguing premise, mixing sci-fi with post colonialism and the west. I did like the portrayal of Columbus as an aristocratic admiral and not a con artist. Mechanistically, I don¡¯t understand how killing him wouldn¡¯t affect the entire timeline downstream. It wasn¡¯t really spelled out too well. Overall great idea, poor execution. Art was decent.
]]> 180347365
When Martin and Tawny¡¯s children disappeared, the couple barreled into the desert to track them down at any cost. Instead, they ran afoul of another group of rovers who claimed to be saving the world by traveling through a cave portal to the year 1492 to prevent the creation of America¡ªan idea that defied belief until the grieving parents were lured into the cave and vanished in time and space.

Now alone, Tawny must adapt to the wild marshlands of prehistoric Florida, circa 20,000 BC, and the breathtaking and bloodthirsty megafauna are the least of her problems when she¡¯s caught in a war between a community of native Paleo-Indians and an occupying Solutrean force. Tawny¡¯s odds of survival are in free fall, but she¡¯s a mother on a mission¡­and she¡¯s holding on to hope that the cave brought her here for a family reunion.

In the tradition of Saga , the next chapter of the critically acclaimed sci-fi epic is here in Earthdivers Vol. 2 . Collects Earthdivers #7-10.]]> 104 Stephen Graham Jones Shivesh 1 comics, library-vegas Incomprehensible. 3.24 2024
author: Stephen Graham Jones
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.24
book published: 2024
rating: 1
read at: 2024/10/04
date added: 2024/10/04
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:
Incomprehensible.
]]> 217045827 136 Chris Claremont 1302960660 Shivesh 3 comics 3.33
author: Chris Claremont
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.33
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/02
date added: 2024/10/02
shelves: comics
review:
Another classic Wolverine miniseries by the legend himself, Chris Claremont. I read this issue by issue, over four nights with my kid.
]]> 209056045
See the turtles as you¡¯ve never seen them before: in bold black, white, and green! This anthology of fresh yet evergreen Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles short stories brings together powerhouse artists and writers who to this iconic franchise. Each creator gives the characters their own personal take while honoring the comic history that made them beloved characters in the first place. Talent ranges from indie up-and-comers to heavy hitters, highlighting diversity and unique voices.

Collects Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Black, White, and Green #1¨C4 by creators Dave Baker, Paulina Ganucheau, Jeremy Holt, Declan Shalvey, Jesse Lonergan, Tyler Boss, Javier Rodr¨ªguez, Dave Wielgosz, Riley Rossmo, and Lee Garbett.]]> 160 Declan Shalvey Shivesh 3 comics 3.49 2024
author: Declan Shalvey
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.49
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/09/30
date added: 2024/09/30
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 61022102
Collects The Nice House on the Lake #7-12]]> 176 James Tynion IV 1779517408 Shivesh 3 4.13 2023
author: James Tynion IV
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2024/09/30
date added: 2024/09/30
shelves: comics, mysterious, science-fictional
review:

]]> 58502336
Everyone who was invited to the house knows Walter¡ªwell, 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¡ªso 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¡ªand it might just be the face of the person you once trusted most.

Collects The Nice House on the Lake #1-6.]]> 200 James Tynion IV 1779514344 Shivesh 5 comics, library-vegas 4.29 2022
author: James Tynion IV
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/28
date added: 2024/09/29
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 214151752 184 Skottie Young 1534331484 Shivesh 3 comics 3.71
author: Skottie Young
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.71
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/09/24
date added: 2024/09/25
shelves: comics
review:
Entertaining and intriguing start that unfortunately doesn't keep its momentum by the end.
]]> 7790696
Usopp is the local liar who likes to stir up trouble by shouting "The pirates are coming!" But he never expected his harmless prank to become a reality! Captain Kuro of the Black Cat Pirates has been lying low, posing as a mild-mannered butler while waiting for the right time to strike it rich with his devious plan. With no one believing him, all hope seems lost for Usopp--until he has Luffy on his side!

Containing Volumes 4, 5 and 6 of One Piece!

R to L (Japanese Style)]]> 600 Eiichiro Oda 1421536269 Shivesh 3 4.40 2010
author: Eiichiro Oda
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2010
rating: 3
read at: 2024/09/22
date added: 2024/09/22
shelves:
review:

]]> 55223004 Alternate cover edition of ASIN B08GJVLGGX.

A deeply moving and mind-expanding collection of personal essays in the first ever work of non-fiction from #1 internationally bestselling author John Green

The Anthropocene is the current geological age, in which human activity has profoundly shaped the planet and its biodiversity. In this remarkable symphony of essays adapted and expanded from his ground-breaking, critically acclaimed podcast, John Green reviews different facets of the human-centered planet - from the QWERTY keyboard and Halley's Comet to Penguins of Madagascar - on a five-star scale.

Complex and rich with detail, the Anthropocene's reviews have been praised as 'observations that double as exercises in memoiristic empathy', with over 10 million lifetime downloads. John Green's gift for storytelling shines throughout this artfully curated collection about the shared human experience; it includes beloved essays along with six all-new pieces exclusive to the book.]]> 304 John Green Shivesh 0 to-read 4.31 2021
author: John Green
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 210499038 Tyr had vanished, and there were whispers of cosmic forces at work. And so the children of Odin gathered in their father's name to search for one of their own. Regal Thor, fierce Angela, brave Balder, swift Hermod, quiet Honir, strong Vidar, cunning Loki, even Laussa the youngest -- all were there...and another beside. Another, whose name they feared. This is the story of the Immortal Thor...and the lost son of Odin!

COLLECTING: Immortal Thor (2023) 11-15, 1 (G.O.D.S. bonus page)]]> 120 Al Ewing 1302954644 Shivesh 4 comics 3.59
author: Al Ewing
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.59
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/06
date added: 2024/09/06
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 60260964 Iconic Batman artist Jock delivers a bare-knuckle brawl through the blacked-out streets of Gotham!


All they had to do was get him across town.

It was the sort of mission Batman had run a thousand times. From high above the sweltering summer streets of Gotham, Batman would escort the GCPD as the dangerous metahuman super-villain known as E.M.P. was transferred from a temporary holding cell to his permanent home at Blackgate Prison in Gotham Harbor. E.M.P.'s electrical powers posed a dangerous threat, but the situation was well in hand.

Until it wasn't.

Now every light in Gotham is out, the police have been knocked into disarray, and a broken, bleeding Batman must fight his way to Blackgate, block by block, dragging E.M.P. behind him. But it's not just the gangs who want to make life difficult for him. The dark corners of Gotham contain many surprises...and E.M.P. has many more shocks to deliver before the night is through!

One of the most iconic Batman artists of the 21st century, the incomparable Jock (THE BATMAN WHO LAUGHS, BATMAN: THE BLACK MIRROR), has focused all his storytelling powers on the tale of one very, very dark night in Gotham City. It's always darkest before the dawn--if it ever comes...

Collects Batman: One Dark Knight #1-3.]]> 168 Jock 1779510284 Shivesh 4 comics 3.45 2022
author: Jock
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.45
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/02
date added: 2024/09/03
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 199846832
Thirty-seven years ago, Earth was secretly invaded by an alien force known as the Devolution, and they¡¯ve been shaping the direction of humanity ever since. Why? To prepare us to be assimilated into their empire¡­

The Devolution has 13 ministries, each responsible for manipulating a different aspect of human life. The Ministry of Compliance, the most feared of all the ministries, led by the fierce Avigail Senna, keeps every ministry in line and focused on the empire¡¯s mission. Just as their mission is on the verge of success and Earth is about to be assimilated, the empire suffers a horrific blow.

For the survival of her people and herself, Avigail must rally the ministries together. A feat made near impossible as tensions and conspiracies run rampant.

Eisner Award¨Cnominated filmmaker and critically acclaimed comic book writer John Ridley ( The Other History of the DC Universe, I Am Batman ) and acclaimed artist Stefano Rafael ( The Joker, The Blue Wall ) deliver a bold, new vision of science fiction with MINISTRY OF COMPLIANCE .]]> 168 John Ridley Shivesh 3 comics 3.55
author: John Ridley
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.55
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/09/01
date added: 2024/09/03
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 343662 176 Frank Miller Shivesh 4 comics 4.35 1986
author: Frank Miller
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.35
book published: 1986
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/31
date added: 2024/08/31
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 7165204
As a child, Monkey D. Luffy dreamed of becoming King of the Pirates. But his life changed when he accidentally ate the Gum-Gum Fruit, an enchanted Devil Fruit that gave him the ability to stretch like rubber. Its only drawback? He'll never be able to swim again--a serious handicap for an aspiring sea dog! Years later, Luffy sets off on his quest to find the "One Piece," said to be the greatest treasure in the world...

The treasure trove of high seas adventures just got bigger with this collection of the first three volumes of One Piece!

R to L (Japanese Style)]]> 608 Eiichiro Oda 1421536250 Shivesh 4 manga 4.43 2009
author: Eiichiro Oda
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2009
rating: 4
read at: 2024/06/23
date added: 2024/08/28
shelves: manga
review:

]]> 58801669 A unique new vision of Gotham, built to be the logical next step for fans of the 2022 film THE BATMAN!

Bruce Wayne¡¯s mission as the Batman has only been underway for a year or so, but he can tell he¡¯s making a difference in this city. Unfortunately, he¡¯s made some powerful enemies¨Cand not just among the colorful maniacs called ¡°super-villains.¡± All the traditional power brokers of Gotham resent the disruption the Batman has brought to town¡­ and it seems one of them has a plan to neutralize him. There¡¯s a second Batman haunting Gotham¡¯s rooftops and alleys¨Cand this one has no qualms about murdering criminals, live and on tape. With the entire might of the Gotham City Police Department and Gotham¡¯s rich and powerful coming down on his head, Batman must find this imposter and somehow clear his name¡­but how can you prove your innocence from behind a mask?

Mattson Tomlin¨Ccreator of the hit Netflix series Project Power and director of the upcoming Mother/Android¨Chas teamed up with Eisner-winning suspense and horror artist Andrea Sorrentino (JOKER: KILLER SMILE, Gideon Falls) to create a wholly new version of Gotham City, informed by grim reality, where every punch leaves a broken bone and every action has consequences far, far beyond Batman¡¯s imagination!]]> 168 Mattson Tomlin 1779514328 Shivesh 5 comics
The costuming and the hyper-realistic setting of this story is reminiscent of the recent Batman movie, and it is not a suprise that Tomlin is a co-writer of the film script as well. My kid won't enjoy this too much - it has a dark palette throughout, and the story was dark and bloody. However, for the grown ups who still escape with a good comic at the end of a long day, this is a great choice.]]> 3.85 2022
author: Mattson Tomlin
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2024/08/27
date added: 2024/08/28
shelves: comics
review:
Overall this is just a classic, cinematic Batman noir tale set in the early days of Bruce Wayne¡¯s crusade against crime.

The costuming and the hyper-realistic setting of this story is reminiscent of the recent Batman movie, and it is not a suprise that Tomlin is a co-writer of the film script as well. My kid won't enjoy this too much - it has a dark palette throughout, and the story was dark and bloody. However, for the grown ups who still escape with a good comic at the end of a long day, this is a great choice.
]]> 21555970 Collects THE WAKE #1-10.]]> 256 Scott Snyder 1401245234 Shivesh 2 comics, library-vegas 3.61 2014
author: Scott Snyder
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2014
rating: 2
read at: 2024/08/22
date added: 2024/08/22
shelves: comics, library-vegas
review:

]]> 41181600 The incredible true story of the decade-long quest to bring down Paul Le Roux¡ªthe creator of a frighteningly powerful Internet-enabled cartel who merged the ruthlessness of a drug lord with the technological savvy of a Silicon Valley entrepreneur

It all started as an online prescription drug network, supplying hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of painkillers to American customers. It would not stop there. Before long, the business had turned into a sprawling multinational conglomerate engaged in almost every conceivable aspect of criminal mayhem. Yachts carrying $100 million in cocaine. Safe houses in Hong Kong filled with gold bars. Shipments of methamphetamine from North Korea. Weapons deals with Iran. Mercenary armies in Somalia. Teams of hitmen in the Philippines. Encryption programs so advanced that the government could not break them.

The man behind it all, pulling the strings from a laptop in Manila, was Paul Calder Le Roux¡ªa reclusive programmer turned criminal genius who could only exist in the networked world of the twenty-first century, and the kind of self-made crime boss that American law enforcement had never imagined.

For half a decade, DEA agents played a global game of cat-and-mouse with Le Roux as he left terror and chaos in his wake. Each time they came close, he would slip away. It would take relentless investigative work, and a shocking betrayal from within his organization, to catch him. And when he was finally caught, the story turned again, as Le Roux struck a deal to bring down his own organization and the people he had once employed.

Award-winning investigative journalist Evan Ratliff spent four years piecing together this intricate puzzle, chasing LeRoux's empire and his shadowy henchmen around the world, conducting hundreds of interviews and uncovering thousands of documents. The result is a riveting, unprecedented account of a crime boss built by and for the digital age.

Advance praise for The Mastermind

¡°As directors, we spend countless hours imagining heightened plots and memorable characters that will leave a lasting impression on audiences. The true tale of obsession, genius, intrigue, and vengeance detailed in The Mastermind is as gripping and cinematic as anything we could endeavor to conjure up.¡±¡ªJoe and Anthony Russo, directors of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Captain America: Civil War, and Avengers: Infinity War

¡°With his relentless and fearless reporting, Evan Ratliff has pried open a hidden world filled with high-tech gangsters and drug kingpins and double-crossers and stone-cold hitmen. The story is as fascinating as it is terrifying, and it is one that will hold you in its grip.¡±¡ªDavid Grann, author of Killers of the Flower Moon

¡°If truth is stranger than fiction, then The Mastermind is the truest book you¡¯ll read this year. The only thing predictable about it is how quickly you¡¯ll turn the pages.¡±¡ªNoah Hawley, author of Before the Fall and creator of the TV series Fargo

¡°This is a mesmerizing, absolutely bonkers story about a man as brilliant as he is villainous. You¡¯ll find yourself sucked in, freaked out, and ultimately blown away by Ratliff's storytelling and tireless reporting. The Mastermind is a masterpiece.¡±¡ªNick Thompson, editor-in-chief, Wired]]> 480 Evan Ratliff 0399590412 Shivesh 3 criminal, library-vegas 4.03 2019
author: Evan Ratliff
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2024/08/10
date added: 2024/08/18
shelves: criminal, library-vegas
review:

]]> 60420356
COLLECTING:?Hulk vs. Thor: Banner of War (2022) 1, Thor (2020) 25-26, Hulk (2021) 7-8]]> 128 Donny Cates 1302946633 Shivesh 4 comics 3.36 2022
author: Donny Cates
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.36
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2023/09/28
date added: 2024/08/18
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 210595440 Corrupted! Abandoned! Sentenced to death! The Dark Knight fights for his life in the lawless land of Gotham.

Following the events of ¡°The Gotham War¡±, Batman, now under the influence of the Azmer demon is set to be publicly hanged in Gotham City to atone for his crimes. With Gotham¡¯s citizens under the spell of Orgham, the city is thrown into chaos like it¡¯s never seen before. Can Batman¡¯s greatest allies and enemies rescue him from the gallows before it¡¯s lights out on Bruce Wayne?

Collects Detective Comics #1076-1080]]> 232 Ram V. 1779529457 Shivesh 4 comics
Comics cognoscenti have been panning this run, and I am not sure what they expect for an old-school title like D.C. - but I am thoroughly enjoying this Gothic take from Ram V. Batman is a lot of things to different people, and his darker, solo side is my cup of mythology. If any writer is able to combine that with a real detective tale, then they have a fan for life.]]> 3.81 2024
author: Ram V.
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/18
date added: 2024/08/18
shelves: comics
review:
Ram V kicks the story into its final descent into a dramatic, slow conclusion. If the pace so far has been a problem for readers, then don't expect any different as we enter the final act of this opera. There are a few elements that could have been jettisoned easily: the interplay of the Batfamily, and the unneeded distractions of Mr. Freeze and other villains in Selina's strategy. I thought the book was extremely solid when exploring the battle against the inner demons while Bruce struggled against the Azmer.

Comics cognoscenti have been panning this run, and I am not sure what they expect for an old-school title like D.C. - but I am thoroughly enjoying this Gothic take from Ram V. Batman is a lot of things to different people, and his darker, solo side is my cup of mythology. If any writer is able to combine that with a real detective tale, then they have a fan for life.
]]> 210041408 WHAT LIES BENEATH GOTHAM?

The Dark Knight investigates below the old ruins of Arkham Asylum, uncovering a demon-infested mystery tying Gotham to the Orgham family from centuries back...including the existence of Batman!

With Nightwing and Batgirl helping along the way, Batman struggles to fight off an Azmer demon's hold on his mind, and the only thing in its way are Bruce's own inner demons...and Barbatos.

Ram V and a host of all-star artists, including Stefano Raffaele, Ivan Reis, Dustin Nguyen, Francesco Francavilla, and others, take Batman on a hellacious journey he may never return from! Plus, stories featuring Mr. Freeze, Prince Arzen, Commissioner Montoya, and a young Bruce Wayne.

Collects Detective Comics #1071-1075.]]> 184 Ram V. 177952742X Shivesh 4 comics 3.64 2024
author: Ram V.
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/16
date added: 2024/08/18
shelves: comics
review:

]]> 210177640
Collecting IMMORTAL THOR #6-10 and ROXXON PRESENTS: THOR.]]> 144 Al Ewing 1302954199 Shivesh 4 comics
A weird and wacky foray into meta-comics and commentary. Al Ewing continues to bring it heavy against comics consumerism and mindless corporatism. The irony of doing all this within a comic with Marvel on the cover is not lost on anyone. Let the man cook! I am here for the ride.]]> 3.90
author: Al Ewing
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.90
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/13
date added: 2024/08/13
shelves: comics
review:
"For the All-Father hath raised no bums."

A weird and wacky foray into meta-comics and commentary. Al Ewing continues to bring it heavy against comics consumerism and mindless corporatism. The irony of doing all this within a comic with Marvel on the cover is not lost on anyone. Let the man cook! I am here for the ride.
]]> 708392 238 Nikolai Gogol 0451524039 Shivesh 3 russians 4.11 1835
author: Nikolai Gogol
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.11
book published: 1835
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2024/08/12
shelves: russians
review:

]]> 58678422 Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ Choice winner for Nonfiction 2021 and instant #1 bestseller! A deeply moving collection of personal essays from John Green, the author of The Fault in Our Stars and Turtles All the Way Down.

The Anthropocene is the current geologic age, in which humans have profoundly reshaped the planet and its biodiversity. In this remarkable symphony of essays adapted and expanded from his groundbreaking podcast, bestselling author John Green reviews different facets of the human-centered planet on a five-star scale¡ªfrom the QWERTY keyboard and sunsets to Canada geese and Penguins of Madagascar.

Funny, complex, and rich with detail, the reviews chart the contradictions of contemporary humanity. As a species, we are both far too powerful and not nearly powerful enough, a paradox that came into sharp focus as we faced a global pandemic that both separated us and bound us together.

John Green¡¯s gift for storytelling shines throughout this masterful collection. The Anthropocene Reviewed is an open-hearted exploration of the paths we forge and an unironic celebration of falling in love with the world.]]> 304 John Green 0525556532 Shivesh 0 to-read 4.42 2021
author: John Green
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 795034 To Green Angel Tower is the momentous tour-de-force finale of a ground-breaking series. Replete with war, deception, adventure, sorcery, and romance, To Green Angel Tower brings to a stunning and surprising conclusion Tad Williams' monumental tale of a magical conflict which fractures the very fabric of time and space, turning both humans and Sithi against those of their own blood.

As the evil minions of the undead Sithi Storm King prepare for the kingdom-shattering culmination of their dark sorceries and King Elias is drawn ever deeper into their nightmarish, spell-spun world, the loyal allies of Prince Josua desperately struggle to rally their forces at The Stone of Farewell. And with time running out, the remaining members of the now-devastated League of the Scroll have also gathered there to unravel mysteries from the forgotten past. For if the League can reclaim these age-old secrets of magic long-buried beneath the dusts of time, they may be able to reveal to Josua and his army the only means of striking down the unslayable foe.

But whether or not the League is successful in its quest, the call of battle will lead the valiant followers of Josua Lackhand across storm tossed seas brimming with bloodthirsty kilpa...through forests swarming with those both mind- and soul-lost... through ancient caverns built by legendary Dwarrows...to the haunted halls of Asu'a itself¡ªthe Sithi's greatest stronghold!]]> 815 Tad Williams 0886775981 Shivesh 3 fantastical 4.21 1993
author: Tad Williams
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.21
book published: 1993
rating: 3
read at: 2009/12/11
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: fantastical
review:

]]> 6948937
There's something fishy going on in Nami's hometown that's led her to turn her back on her family and friends. But her betrayal is all for naught when the unscrupulous captain of the fish-man pirates, "Sawtooth" Arlong, goes back on his word. When her fellow villagers gear up to challenge a merciless foe who can easily crush them, her only hope for peace is to turn to the very people she has been lying to¡­ the Straw Hat Pirates!

Containing the last volumes of the East Blue saga: 10, 11 and 12 of One Piece!

R to L (Japanese Style)]]> 568 Eiichiro Oda 1421536285 Shivesh 0 to-read 4.54 2010
author: Eiichiro Oda
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.54
book published: 2010
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 7825529
The Straw Hat crew makes a pit stop at the oceangoing restaurant the Baratie, where the cooks are as rough-and-tumble as the pirates who frequent it. Don Krieg, a notorious pirate whose ship was battered in the treacherous seas of the Grand Line, has set his sights on the Baratie, but sous-chef Sanji isn't going to stand idly by while these ruthless pirates take the ship by force!

Containing Volumes 7, 8 and 9 of One Piece!

R to L (Japanese Style)]]> 592 Eiichiro Oda 1421536277 Shivesh 0 to-read 4.54 2010
author: Eiichiro Oda
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.54
book published: 2010
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 364957 195 Eiichiro Oda 1591161843 Shivesh 3 4.33 1998
author: Eiichiro Oda
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.33
book published: 1998
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2024/07/16
shelves:
review:

]]> 364956 193 Eiichiro Oda 159116057X Shivesh 4 4.36 1998
author: Eiichiro Oda
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.36
book published: 1998
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2024/07/16
shelves:
review:

]]> 58873712 592 Hajime Isayama 1646513746 Shivesh 4 4.48
author: Hajime Isayama
name: Shivesh
average rating: 4.48
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/07/13
date added: 2024/07/13
shelves:
review:

]]> 195272305
Azmer the demon begins to rally the likes of the Two-Face and Mister Freeze in his efforts to defeat the Dark Detective. Meanwhile, the young Orgham heir Arzen meets Bruce Wayne for the first time, and Bruce see potential in the boy. Dualism takes center stage in this arc, and not only is nothing as it seems, but it¡¯s always, always worse.

Collects Detective Comics issues 1066 ¨C 1069.]]> 232 Ram V. 1779524625 Shivesh 3 comics
The narrative elements presented here seem disjointed. V is going for the ambience instead of the substance. Bruce Wayne grapples with the realities of aging and the physical limitations it imposes on his role as a vigilante. An echo of a classic Batman story resurfaces, with Mr. Freeze entangled in dubious experiments in Gotham's dark corners, though the direction remains unclear. Additionally, Two-Face, ever a compelling figure, appears to be caught in an underdeveloped subplot, wrestling with the temptation to yield to his darker half. Collectively, these storylines struggle to weave a coherent tale. Despite this, the issue's ambiance and tone are captivating and enjoyable. It's prudent to reserve final judgment until the story's trajectory becomes clearer. So it appears that the sales for these issues have been disappointing, with Detective Comics no longer ranking in the top 50 every month. Now that is a shame. ]]> 3.58 2024
author: Ram V.
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.58
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/06/21
date added: 2024/06/30
shelves: comics
review:
I can say the art is great, engaging and moody. It's more than half the reason why this title is worth collecting.

The narrative elements presented here seem disjointed. V is going for the ambience instead of the substance. Bruce Wayne grapples with the realities of aging and the physical limitations it imposes on his role as a vigilante. An echo of a classic Batman story resurfaces, with Mr. Freeze entangled in dubious experiments in Gotham's dark corners, though the direction remains unclear. Additionally, Two-Face, ever a compelling figure, appears to be caught in an underdeveloped subplot, wrestling with the temptation to yield to his darker half. Collectively, these storylines struggle to weave a coherent tale. Despite this, the issue's ambiance and tone are captivating and enjoyable. It's prudent to reserve final judgment until the story's trajectory becomes clearer. So it appears that the sales for these issues have been disappointing, with Detective Comics no longer ranking in the top 50 every month. Now that is a shame.
]]> 61317874
Tista leads a dual life as the grim reaper of New York City and a university student studying to be a teacher. With extraordinary eyesight allowing her to make long-range shots with unrivaled accuracy, she has come to be feared by the criminal underground. Tista knows she¡¯s doomed, but can her feelings for a young man she just met bring her back from the abyss? And what will she do if he finds out who she really is?]]> 208 Tatsuya Endo 1974736717 Shivesh 3 manga
Set against the gritty backdrop of New York City, Tista Volume 1 introduces readers to a dark world where the NYPD's hunt for the elusive 'Sister Militia' is a central plot point, yet the narrative struggles to provide a compelling cat-and-mouse game, often feeling more like a one-sided pursuit. The city's underbelly is caricatured as rife with fear and speculation, but the story fails to fully capitalize on this atmosphere. It is a little disjointed.

Tista herself is a character of contradictions, embodying both innocence and vengeance. While her dual life as a university student and a vigilante is intriguing, the execution of the idea falls short. Her journey towards becoming a teacher feels underdeveloped and disconnected from her nightly escapades.

Her extraordinary eyesight, which allows her to execute long-range shots with remarkable precision, is one of her defining traits. However, this skill is presented without much explanation or backstory, making it seem more like a convenient plot device. The fear she instills in the criminal world is palpable, but the narrative does little to explore the psychological impact of her actions, both on herself and the city's criminal landscape. Why and how did she get incredible sight and her superpowers? Nothing is explained.

Moreover, the sense of vulnerability that surrounds her is touched upon but not explored in depth. The story hints at a complex character grappling with the weight of her double life, yet it stops short of delving into the emotional and moral implications of her vigilantism. This lack of character exploration leaves a gap in the narrative, making the struggle feel superficial rather than profound or indicative of anything too deep.

The story's pacing and exploration of its central character need refinement to truly capture the essence of a vigilante's conflict and the city that serves as her battleground. I was intrigued by the concept but ultimately dissatisfied with the execution. The potential for a gripping tale is there, but it requires a more nuanced approach to reach its full promise. I think I will buy the second volume just to finish this story and see where it goes...]]> 3.25 2008
author: Tatsuya Endo
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.25
book published: 2008
rating: 3
read at: 2024/06/30
date added: 2024/06/30
shelves: manga
review:
Trying to get into Manga again, twenty years later. I picked this up at B&N on a whim. A good start and the series is short, so managable.

Set against the gritty backdrop of New York City, Tista Volume 1 introduces readers to a dark world where the NYPD's hunt for the elusive 'Sister Militia' is a central plot point, yet the narrative struggles to provide a compelling cat-and-mouse game, often feeling more like a one-sided pursuit. The city's underbelly is caricatured as rife with fear and speculation, but the story fails to fully capitalize on this atmosphere. It is a little disjointed.

Tista herself is a character of contradictions, embodying both innocence and vengeance. While her dual life as a university student and a vigilante is intriguing, the execution of the idea falls short. Her journey towards becoming a teacher feels underdeveloped and disconnected from her nightly escapades.

Her extraordinary eyesight, which allows her to execute long-range shots with remarkable precision, is one of her defining traits. However, this skill is presented without much explanation or backstory, making it seem more like a convenient plot device. The fear she instills in the criminal world is palpable, but the narrative does little to explore the psychological impact of her actions, both on herself and the city's criminal landscape. Why and how did she get incredible sight and her superpowers? Nothing is explained.

Moreover, the sense of vulnerability that surrounds her is touched upon but not explored in depth. The story hints at a complex character grappling with the weight of her double life, yet it stops short of delving into the emotional and moral implications of her vigilantism. This lack of character exploration leaves a gap in the narrative, making the struggle feel superficial rather than profound or indicative of anything too deep.

The story's pacing and exploration of its central character need refinement to truly capture the essence of a vigilante's conflict and the city that serves as her battleground. I was intrigued by the concept but ultimately dissatisfied with the execution. The potential for a gripping tale is there, but it requires a more nuanced approach to reach its full promise. I think I will buy the second volume just to finish this story and see where it goes...
]]> 99670856
Something is terribly wrong with Batman. No matter the tests Bruce takes, nor the numbers he counts, the greatest detective in the world can¡¯t pin down the source of this creeping dread¡ªof his own inner demons and a looming mortality. Meanwhile, real demons roam the shadows as an ancient melody haunts the Gotham night. Here now the curtains rise and as the eerie tune streams in¡­who is human, who is demon, who is to tell? As Batman investigates the songs and the demons of Gotham, he is forced to confront the oldest question¡­whether there has been a demon within him all along¡­and if so, what does it want¡­and why hasn¡¯t it taken over yet?

Collects Detective Comics #1062-1065]]> 232 Ram V. 1779520948 Shivesh 4 3.63 2023
author: Ram V.
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.63
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/06/14
date added: 2024/06/30
shelves:
review:
In the realm of dark comic ambience, Detective Comics, Vol. 1: Gotham Nocturne: Overture emerges as a tour de force for the kind of Batman fan who loves the spooky aspects of Gotham, where demons lurk in the subterrean shadows. I love a Batman that is the inheritor of HP Lovecraft's haunted world. Under the pen of Ram V, Gotham transforms into a gothic stage where the Dark Knight¡¯s saga unfolds with a visual grandeur reminiscent of a noir film. His narrative skillfully unravels a background story rich with Gotham¡¯s history, adding layers to Batman¡¯s character and the city he protects. I hear that the story develops slowly but I am here for the ride.
]]> 63187172 112 Ethan Sachs 1302947184 Shivesh 1 comics 3.14
author: Ethan Sachs
name: Shivesh
average rating: 3.14
book published:
rating: 1
read at: 2024/06/22
date added: 2024/06/23
shelves: comics
review:
Read this with my son for our nightly bedtime comic. Only reason I got this is because he is crazy about the PS5 game, and I confess I've been playing a little bit as well. It's a great game if you like tactical RPG's. I was disappointed at this comic storyline had absolutely nothing to do with the game, and lacked some of the major characters as well. The narrative was very jumbled, and the art was inconsistent. Wolverine as usual was engaging, but he felt very out of place in this book, and seemed that editor just kind of shoved him in because well, he's Wolverine. Disappointing. The issues went into the archive comic bin, probably never to be seen again!
]]>