Rob's Picks:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2024) #2
Jason Aaron’s TMNT relaunch continues strong with this Michelangelo-focused issue. Just like Raphael in issue #1, Mikey’s solo life takes center stage, giving us a look at what he's been up to since the brothers parted ways. Now a famous TV star and living large in Tokyo, Mikey’s newfound fame is a sharp contrast to the days of fighting crime and eating pizza in the sewers. However, that old life comes crashing back when some familiar enemies seek revenge. Rafael Albuquerque's art, enhanced by Marcelo Maiolo’s vibrant colors, perfectly balances Mikey's lighthearted exterior with the deeper, more emotional core Aaron has brought to the character. Fans of Michelangelo will appreciate this dive into his personal journey, and the action is as exciting as ever.

The Uncanny X-Men #2
Gail Simone’s Uncanny X-Men expands its cast with a new group of young mutants seeking refuge with Rogue and her crew. The teens are on the run from a monstrous figure known as the Hag, and their arrival complicates things for the team. While Rogue is eager to help, Logan remains hesitant about mentoring another generation of mutants, and Gambit is distracted by his mysterious prize from issue #1. Tensions rise, and when the new mutants demonstrate their powers, the stakes escalate further. David Marquez’s art showcases the unique abilities of the new characters, while the Hag is suitably terrifying. Simone continues to make this Rogue’s book, and her leadership shines through as one of the few X-Men not hardened by the team’s difficult past. This issue builds on the strong foundation of the first, introducing fresh faces while keeping the focus on Rogue’s development as a leader.

Jonny Quest #2
Joe Casey’s Jonny Quest keeps the nostalgic 60s pulp feel alive in this second issue. The story stays true to its Hanna-Barbera roots, blending super-science, underground labs, and orbital bases with classic globe-trotting adventure. In this issue, the Quest team is still adjusting to their current predicament, while their oldest nemesis plots his revenge. Casey adds unexpected emotional depth, particularly in the portrayal of a more mature Jonny, but the pace doesn’t lag for long. The Quest compound faces an attack by some familiar robots, setting the stage for the next leg of their adventure. Fans of the original series and Dynamite’s Space Ghost will find plenty to enjoy in this faithful yet modern take on the beloved property.

Solomon's Picks:

Wolverine #1
Everyone’s favorite mutant returns in a new solo run by Saladin Ahmed and Martin Coccolo, delivering everything a Wolverine fan could want. Set during a time of transition for the mutants, Logan has isolated himself in the wilderness, indulging his primal instincts. However, his solitude is interrupted when Cyber, a dangerous figure from his past, begins hunting him. The writing nails the "hunter vs. prey" dynamic, to the point where it becomes unclear who is truly hunting whom. The eventual confrontation between Wolverine and Cyber is brutal and exhilarating, living up to the legacy of these two formidable foes. This issue embraces all the gritty, savage action we expect from a Wolverine story while keeping the stakes personal. Marvel is giving fans exactly what they want, and this new run is no exception. If you're a Wolverine fan, this is a must-read!

Wolverine: Venom Wars #1
The Venom War event continues, and now Wolverine is drawn into the fray. Written by Tim Seeley, Tony Fleecs, and illustrated by Kev Walker, this issue is both intense and surprisingly charming. After a peaceful night at a Manhattan bar is interrupted, Logan is corrupted by one of the enhanced symbiotes. His healing factor, typically his saving grace, fails to protect him from this new strain of symbiote, leading to blackouts and mysterious violence. The narrative switches between the action-packed moments and Logan's personal quest for peace, giving the issue a more introspective feel than one might expect from a crossover event. This book offers a fresh take on Wolverine while balancing humor and intensity, making it a standout in the Venom War storyline. If you’ve been enjoying the event so far, this is a must-grab!

Avengers Assemble #1
The Avengers are back in action after the Blood Hunt event, and they’re up against Sin, who has acquired relics that have made her even more dangerous. With the core Avengers tied up, Captain America calls upon heroes like Wasp, Shang-Chi, and Monica Rambeau to form a new team. The cast is huge, with some surprising appearances, which I won’t spoil, but the story manages to balance all of these characters effectively. The issue is packed with action and humor while keeping the main plot tight and engaging. The team’s chemistry is great, and the setup for future conflicts looks promising, especially with the last-panel reveal! If you’re a fan of Avengers stories with a clean, classic feel, this is a great start to a new chapter for the team. Highly recommended for any Avengers fan!