Rob's Picks:

Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees: Rite of Spring #1 brings back the delightfully disturbing storybook slasher in top form, picking up eight years after the events of the original series. Writer/artist Patrick Horvath once again masterfully balances the cozy and the macabre, delivering a follow-up that’s just as unsettling and engaging as its predecessor. With serial killer Sam still hiding in plain sight in the deceptively quaint town of Woodbrook, her calm is upended by Monica, a tenacious duck detective whose cold case obsession leads her straight into danger. Horvath’s use of gentle, anthropomorphic visuals to frame such bleak subject matter heightens the horror beautifully, and the return of Sam’s chillingly methodical mindset instantly recaptures the eerie tone that earned the original its Eisner nomination. This is not only a worthy sequel—it may be even sharper than the first.

Archie Meets Jay and Silent Bob #1 is an absurdly fun crossover that somehow makes perfect sense. Kevin Smith slides his iconic stoner duo into the wholesome chaos of Riverdale, creating a tone-clashing comedy that works far better than it should. Archie, now clerking at the Quick Stop, finds himself caught between Randal’s cynical slackerism and Jay’s chaotic energy, all while navigating his usual romantic misadventures. Smith mines a lot of humor from the cultural whiplash between View Askewniverse vulgarity and Archie Comics sincerity, with plenty of fan service for ‘90s kids who grew up on both. Artistically and narratively, it walks a fine line between parody and affectionate homage, delivering a nostalgia bomb with surprising heart. Jay rocking out with the Archies? You’ll never forget it.

Batman: Gotham by Gaslight – A League For Justice #1 continues to build DC’s most compelling Elseworld with style, intelligence, and action. Andy Diggle and Leandro Fernández expand the steampunk-inspired world of Gotham by Gaslight, pushing it beyond the foggy streets of Gotham and into a broader reimagining of the Justice League mythos. Batman’s pursuit of Superman leads him to Smallville, where a three-way clash between the Dark Knight, Martian Manhunter, and Alan Scott’s Green Lantern quickly evolves into a reluctant alliance. The creative team wastes no time, delivering action, intrigue, and rich characterization in equal measure, all while slowly setting the stage for the League’s clash with the formidable Lex Luthor. The art is appropriately gritty and elegant, matching the series’ Victorian aesthetic perfectly. This is shaping up to be a truly exceptional alternate universe saga.

Solo's Picks:

Fantastic Four #1 launches a new volume for Marvel’s first family just ahead of their big-screen return, and Ryan North, Humberto Ramos, and Victor Olazaba deliver a time-twisting adventure with heart, humor, and tension. Doom kicks things off by flinging each team member across different eras, forcing them to survive and adapt solo while the mysterious Forever Stone looms as their only hope of reuniting. The separation of the group allows for deeper internal focus, particularly in a standout sequence featuring Johnny Storm’s harrowing, oxygen-deprived survival. While this doesn’t feel like a traditional jumping-on point (despite the #1), North’s writing is accessible and emotionally resonant, and Ramos’ expressive art keeps the story fluid and stylish. The dark cliffhanger seals the deal on a promising new run—longtime fans will appreciate the nuance, and curious newcomers should be able to find their footing with ease.

Marvel Swimsuit Special #1 returns after 30 years with a self-aware splash of satire, celebrating pinup culture while simultaneously poking fun at the industry’s growing AI reliance. Though most will grab it for the fan service—and it delivers that in spades—the surprise is how funny and pointed the story actually is. There’s real charm in the tongue-in-cheek narrative, and the interior art strikes a nice balance: attractive, playful, but never over-the-top. The pinup gallery is the true showcase, with Mirka Andolfo and Mahmud Asrar/Matthew Wilson stealing the spotlight. It’s light, cheeky, and beautifully drawn—everything a good swimsuit special should be, and a worthy tribute to Marvel’s classic tradition with a modern wink.

The Toxic Avenger #1 is a bold and brutal return for Toxie, brought to vivid, violent life by Matt Bors, Fred Harper, and Lee Loughridge. Set once again in Tromaville, the series opens with a strong hook: a wave of missing children following a suspicious toxic spill, and all fingers pointing to our radioactive antihero. As Toxie and Yvonne investigate, the trail leads to a terrifying new villain producing unstable mutations in isolation, culminating in a chilling confrontation and a standout sequence of poetic justice. Harper’s gritty linework combined with Loughridge’s moody palette creates a visceral visual identity that’s perfect for the series' mix of grime, gore, and gallows humor. This is a reboot that pulls no punches and honors its cult origins while delivering something truly compelling—don’t sleep on it.