June 25th, 2025
Rob's Picks:
Lazarus: Fallen #1 – Forever Carlyle returns in the long-awaited continuation of Lazarus, the gripping dystopian series from Greg Rucka and Michael Lark. Years have passed since Forever, the genetically engineered enforcer of the Carlyle family, learned the truth about her origins and vanished. As war between the ruling oligarch clans grinds on, Forever’s former allies Jo and Dr. Michael Barret are pressed into a desperate, years-long search. The story picks up with Forever finally resurfacing, setting the stage for a final reckoning. Rucka and Lark haven’t missed a beat—delivering tense, personal drama, cinematic action, and the kind of layered worldbuilding that made the series so beloved. If you’re a fan of Children of Men, The Expanse, or just top-tier political sci-fi, this return is a must-read. Old fans will be thrilled, and new readers have a perfect excuse to dive into one of Image’s finest books.
New History of the DC Universe #1 – Barry Allen steps into the narrator’s seat in this sprawling, lovingly crafted retelling of the DC Universe’s beginnings. Mark Waid takes on the Herculean task of summarizing 90 years of stories—from cosmic origins to the early days of heroes like the JSA and obscure gems like Bat Lash—and does so with clarity, reverence, and surprising emotional depth. The book is packed with references that will thrill longtime fans while still offering a readable on-ramp for newer readers. Artists Jerry Ordway and Todd Nauck strike a perfect balance between classic and modern aesthetics, giving this ambitious timeline a cohesive and nostalgic look. Whether you’re a DC diehard or just looking to understand its rich history, this is a remarkable achievement and a great first issue.
Absolute Martian Manhunter #4 – The summer heat and psychic pressure are becoming unbearable in the latest chapter of Absolute Martian Manhunter, and John Jones is feeling the strain. The White Martian’s influence continues to drive humanity to violence, and the FBI agent is running out of ways to contain it—while his home life fractures under the emotional toll. His wife Bridget, once understanding of the oddities that came with the job, now sees a stranger in her husband. Deniz Camp delivers another excellent issue, blending mind-bending sci-fi with raw emotional storytelling. The tension in the world mirrors the tension in John’s personal life, making every scene feel urgent and relevant. This series continues to be one of the smartest and most original titles on the stands—essential reading for fans of speculative fiction and character-driven storytelling alike.
Solo's Picks:
News From The Fallout #1 – This chilling debut from Chris Condon, Jeffrey Alan Love, and Hassan Ostmane-Elhaou blends nuclear paranoia with cosmic horror in a way that feels both fresh and unnerving. Set in the Nevada desert during a supposed nuclear test, a lone soldier’s gut instinct to disobey orders becomes a fight for survival when his unit mutates into monstrous, featureless beings. Love’s abstract and gritty art style amplifies the surreal devastation, making the fallout feel more like a waking nightmare than a battlefield. The creatures, vampire-like yet visually elusive, embody an existential terror that’s hard to shake. Ostmane-Elhaou’s lettering adds a haunting rhythm to the story, enhancing the descent into madness. This issue is a masterclass in atmosphere and tone, offering something wildly different from typical post-apocalyptic fare—highly recommended for horror fans looking for something experimental and unforgettable.
Absolute Wonder Woman #9 – The Absolute line continues to shine with another stellar entry in Absolute Wonder Woman, as Diana navigates a mysterious labyrinth in search of a captured Amazon. This issue leans heavily into action, with nearly every panel showcasing Wonder Woman’s magical and physical might against a bizarre mix of enemies, including a minotaur and aquatic humanoids. Josie Campbell’s writing smartly steps back to let the art breathe, and the stunning visuals by Cliff Chiang and Jordie Bellaire truly carry the issue—lighting effects, creative paneling, and dynamic motion make even the darkest hallways feel vivid. What makes this book stand out is its ability to shift between mythic fantasy and raw superhero action seamlessly. If you’re craving a visually immersive, high-stakes Wonder Woman story, this issue delivers big.
Absolute Martian Manhunter #4 – Tensions hit a boiling point in Absolute Martian Manhunter as John finally faces Bridgette while the world unravels around them. Deniz Camp’s script cuts close to home with its depiction of a society buckling under paranoia, tribalism, and suppressed rage—all amplified by the psychic manipulation of the White Martians. The issue expertly weaves global unrest with personal strife, grounding its sci-fi conspiracy in painfully human emotion. Javier Rodríguez’s art continues to dazzle, with vibrant color palettes and surreal layouts that mirror John’s fragmented state of mind. The final page drops a bombshell that recontextualizes the entire series so far, proving this title isn’t just ambitious—it’s essential reading. If you’re not already on board, this is your sign to catch up immediately.