Catwoman #1

Hey! A villain comic I actually enjoyed! Catwoman's a bit different though. She's just a cat burgler. They said they were going to make her sexy and they sure did. She's not against using her body if it gets her what she wants. And she knows she's doing it. It's not a new aspect of her character. I don't know why people were surprised.

Things I liked: Selina's dialogue is how I expect the character to think and talk.

Things I didn't like: she's a bit more brutal than I recall.

Blackhawks #1

I admit it, I'm disappointed. I like the Blackhawks and I was looking forward to them being updated and made part of the new 52, but not like this. I liked the old Lady Blackhawk, not this one. I liked that they were based initially in World War II and I'm not sure tha's the case here.

Things I liked: there looks to be large cast.

Things I didn't like: really? Shooting water to reduce surface tension for impact? I'd have to see the Mythbusters on that 'cause I'm not buying it.

Aquaman #1

Geoff John may be a new favourite writer for me. I keep reading things that are great from him. He even made Aquaman cool! I'd heard that they were trying to get all he jokes out in the beginning. They may have succeeded, although I wasn't aware that Aquaman could super leap.

Things I liked: he kept Arthur's temper. He's always been a bit of a hot-head. And the updated origin from Flashpoint.

Things I didn't like: I'm reserving judgement on Mera. She's never been a character I liked.

All Star Western #1

Do I love Jonah Hex? Yes, yes, I do. I wasn't expecting much from this title because, well, it is western, but I was pleasantly surprised. It was really well written and still part of the DC Universe. Jonah and Arkham have a mystery to solve and I want to see the outcome.

Things I liked: Jonah's dialogue was always good, as was Arkham's field notes. They make an unlikely pair but it works.

Things I didn't like: had trouble telling some of the characters apart. The art could be a little more distinct.

Teen Titans #2

And the plot thickens.  What I'm liking about this one is that they're taking the time to build the team and to show them as both heroes and in the civilian clothes.  The relationship building between Tim and Cassie is interesting (if predictable) and I'm curious to see how the others will fit on this team.  I'm a little disappointed that Kid Flash is Bart, and that he has no connection to Barry.  I still miss Wally and I don't know how this Kid Flash fits in.

Things I liked: Tim's inner monologue continues to amuse.  Bart's opening in his prison cell was really funny, and I came to the same conclusion that he did in regards to the iron ball.

Things I didn't like: not sure how Skitter and Superboy will fit on the team.

Batman The Dark Knight #2

I can honestly say that the second issue was better than the first.  The story was a lot tighter and there were fewer plot holes.  It even kind of explained what was going on with the inmates of Arkham.  Although, the problem remains that Batman had to deal with two breakouts in the same month.  With the appearance of the others in the Bat family ( nice to see Nightwing and Robin working together again) it's hard to say this one is happening in the past like I first thought.

Things I liked: the art was so gritting in this issue.  They looked like they were really doing damage with their fists.

Things I didn't like: all the villains of Gotham turned into monsters.  And the Joker behind it.  It looks like the White Rabbit is not the Mad Hatter's new girl, but the Joker's.  Guess he had to replace Harley now that she's in the Suicide Squad.  The plot is more of a Joker scheme (I think there's someone higher than him in on it) but she does not fit in with Joker's theme.  I was so proud to have thought of the Lewis Carroll connection but I guess I was wrong.

Captain Atom #1

I like Captain Atom. Of the indestructible supermen he's one of my favourites. Maybe that's why I'm so disappointed. This is not a Captain Atom I'm familiar with. It's difficult considering he was in the issue of Young Justice I read this week too and there he was more like the Captain I remember. Here, he's like a cross of Dr. Manhattan and Firestorm. I didn't like Watchmen and Firestorm has his own series. Giving him transmutation powers seems unnecessary.

Things I liked: that they tried to give him his own series again.

Things I didn't like: the art seemed rushed and unfinished.

Blue Beetle #1

I miss Ted Kord. I was hoping that the new 52 would bring him back in some capacity but I haven't seen any sign of him yet. So that leaves me with Jaime. I was prepared to not really like this because I don't like the extraterrestrial origin of the scarab but I was surprised. I liked it enough to give it a chance through the first arc.

Things I liked: the artvwas engaging. The Beetle transformation looks really painful.

Things I didn't like: the scarab's name is silly.

Batman #2

The thing I really like about Scott Snyder is that he makes sure that each issue is a narrative, it has a beginning a middle and an end, even if it's part of a larger story.  This one is another good example.  The story starts and ends with Gotham Tower, explaining a building in a way that makes it integral to the story.

Things I liked: a Nightwing appearance.  Their relationship is so nicely done.  These two people really know each other.

Things I didn't like: I'm not sure I like this Lincoln guy who's trying to be the next mayor of Gotham.  Using the deaths of their parents at a young age as a way to find solidarity with Bruce Wayne may not be a political move, but it kind of feels like one.

Nightwing #2

With all the uproar about Starfire and Catwoman, people totally ignore that Dick has been seen in just his underwear in two consecutive issues and he has sex on a plane because he can.  I guess it's different for the male characters.

Looks like Dick is running into problems with his secret identity again.  Not only does Mr. Haly know who he is, he's also gone and told Dick's new villain.  He was tortured to give it up, but now the guy that beat Nightwing up in his first issue can follow him around in both identities.

I was wondering how Dick was going to get back with the circus.  Having it all left to him, and it to be the reason that someone is trying to kill Dick, seems a bit of a stretch but I'm willing to let it go to see where Higgins is trying to go with this.

Things I liked: the way Higgins writes Dick.  His soul comes through and that's always been an important part of this character.

Things I didn't like: letting Saiko know who Nightwing is.

Red Hood and The Outlaws #2

While the first issue was an absolute romp, this one toned things down a bit to start a story arc.  I did read A Death in the Family way back so I know how Jason died but I've not read how he came back to life.  It was sort of talked about in this issue.  I knew about Talia and the Lazarus Pit, but I didn't know she took him to be trained by a cult.  Possibly a mystical cult as Jason didn't seem all that surprised to see his teacher's ghost.

Things I liked: who knew that Jason actually cared for someone other than himself?

Things I didn't like: when did Roy become so manic?  I'm used to him being more stoic and serious.  More like Jason, actually.  I get why they wouldn't want three characters like that in one group (Starfire's being very stoic as well) but I hope he tones it down.  Right now he's coming across as a strung out junkie (which could very well be true) but if that's the case let's actually see some evidence of drug use.  It's rated the way it is for a reason.  And it's not just Kori's breasts.

Birds of Prey #1

I thought this one might be good, but I was wrong. Maybe if Gail Simone was writing this one too. All the chemistry that made the series great is gone. I don't like the team that Black Canary is gathering around her. I'm disappointed.

Things I liked: Black Canary.

Things I didn't like: the set up. I don't know where it's going and I don't really care.

Justice League #2

I'm loving the way these characters are being written! Johns has a good handle on the way these guys act, except maybe Superman.

Things I liked: what does Batman do? Keeps them on point.

Things I didn't like: Superman seems a bit too quick to jump into a fight.

Young Justice #9

The team gets a much needed lesson on espionage.  And then throw most of what they learned out the window.  That's not surprising.  At least they're working more like a team now.

Things I liked: Captain Atom was a nice addition.  He comes across as very stiff and he knows it so uses it to his advantage.  I like that he sent them after his own case.

Things I didn't like:  they made the they're/there mistake and it made it past the editor!

Wonder Woman #2

And here's where we get to see the origin of Wonder Woman.

The first issue did seem to begin in the middle of action.  The title character wasn't even present for the first act but that changes in this issue.  Diana is front and centre and Paradise Island gets a close look too.  Zola is an interesting character, and if she and her child survive Hera, I'm interested to see where the relationship between them will go.  It's nice to see Hermes wasn't killed.  I'm still not sure about the chicken feet but I can live with the interpretation.  He is a god and the stories of Zeus certainly show that gods can take many forms.

The conversation between Hera and Eris (Strife here) was well done.  It let Hera explain her motives and expound on why she'd be going after Wonder Woman in a natural way.

Things I liked: Paradise Island as a place to train warriors.  The battle between Aleka and Diana was a good way to show her abilities.

Things I didn't like: Paradise Island is very anti-male.  I would have thought that they'd be a bit more welcoming of Hermes.  And his comment to Zola that she keep her like of men to herself was telling of the Amazons attitudes.

Superboy #1

I'll admit it, while I don't like Superman I have a soft spot for Superboy. And yes, I recognize the irony. I'm not used to seeing as super genius though. I don't know if I can get used to that. It does connect to Teen Titans though which is.a plus. I like the feeling of connectedness that is happening in the new 52.

Things I liked: very organic origin. Everything felt as if it had a place.

Things I didn't like: the question of his parentage. Yes, Superman is the alien, but who's the human. Probably Lex Luthor, but maybe it's this "Red" that he seems to have a connection to. I hope it's not Luthor.

Suicide Squad #1

So this is the third title from DC that star villains. At least Suicide Squad has history of carrying a title, and I have enjoyed issues of it but not this one. First off, I recognize that Harley is a popular character, but she's insane. Certifiably. She should be in Arkham, not Belle Reve. Secondly, I don't know why they had to make her "sexy" but taking away three quarters of her clothing. And they turned Amanda Waller into a sexy lady too. What's wrong with a woman being a non-standard body type in comics. We're not all shaped like Wonder Woman.

Things I liked: it was well-written. I didn't catch that it was a test until just before the characters did.

Things I didn't like: they have to kill a whole stadium next issue? Where's the covert strategy in that?

Resurrection Man #1

This is an interesting concept that I wasn't quite sure how it could translate into a monthly series. I think if he dies every issue it'll get old fast but for now I'm curious to see where it's going.

Things I liked: good introduction to Mitch and his abilities.

Things I didn't like: I wish the art of the inside was as good as the cover.

Legion Lost #1

I like Fabian Nicieza, especially the way he writes teens but this one seemed a bit all over the place. I'm not quite sure what's going on and I hope that some of the gaps are filled in as the series continues.

Things I liked: Nicieza writes teen superheroes very well. I hope their personalities are developed more.

Things I didn't like: was this the best team to send to this period? I would have liked more character introduction.

Grifter #1

I really don't know anything about this character. He's described as a charming conman, which writers have to be careful with because their writing may not be as charming as their character. So I was not expecting the alien abduction. It's got me curious enough to hang in there.

Things I liked: there was enough to get me hooked but not too much to feel rushed.

Things I didn't like: and he's wearing a mask why?

Frankenstein, Agent of S.H.A.D.E #1

I liked the Frankenstein portion of Flashpoint so I had hopes for this one. I was disappointed. The art wasn't as good and the story just didn't grip me. The idea has so much potential but it just wasn't realized here.

Things I liked: at least I know where Ray Palmer (the Atom) is.

Things I didn't like: the new origin of the Creature Commandos isn't as good as the one in Flashpoint.

Demon Knights #1

This was such a fun read! Funny in the right parts and adding action to keep from being slowed down by dialogue. Merlin comes off as a right bastard for the way he gave Etrigan to Jason Blood and who knew Madame Xanadu liked it rough. It was entertaining to see the many immortals in the DC Universe getting to play together.

Things I liked: the dialogue was very natural. They spoke as if they'd know each other for a long time.

Things I didn't like: Etrigan doesn't rhyme.

Deathstroke #1

I don't know why they do this. Deathstroke is a villain. He's not an anti-hero; he's an assassin. At least the Punisher is killing people that deserve. Slade doesn't care.

Things I like: the art was nice and it was well written. I liked the young mercenaries.

Things I didn't like: it's Deathstroke. I didn't think he could carry a title and I still don't think he can carry a title.

Batwoman #1

The art is beautiful for this title. Each page has been crafted and there are a lot of 2 page spreads. The story is a bit more supernatural than I'm used to in a Bat title but I liked it enough that I want to see where it's going.

Things I liked: Batwoman has her own sidekick in Flamebird. One thinks that Nightwing must make an appearance. Batman did.

Things I didn't like: it almost tried to do too much. Yes, Kate is a lesbian, does she have to get a date with a police detective in the first issue. Then there's the back story of her sister and father. It felt squeezed in.

I've heard that there was a complaint of cheesecake because the girls get dressed together. I don't think that's fair. They're getting ready to patrol and the. They get back again. Sure, you don't see the same scene in Batman and Robin but the two of them don't actually talk to one another.

Swamp Thing #1

Swamp Thing has always been an intriguing character for me. I read a bit of the Alan Moore classic run and I try to keep up with what's happening with him. I knew he had died, I knew they were trying to bring him back. I didn't know he was Alec Holland with memories of being Swamp Thing.

This first issue has me interested. It sort of feels like it's connected to the events of Animal Man. There the Red is in chaos and here, it's the Green.

Things I liked: the writing is very good. It has a good build up going.

Things I didn't like: I don't know why the men's heads had to be completely twisted around. People just aren't built that way. An insect villain is a good place to start with Swamp Thing though.

Batman and Robin #2

The Bat-sentimentality was really toned down in this issue, which was nice. Damian was more talked about than he appeared which was a little odd. It seems like all that's happening is to try and show that there are people out there who would use methods darker than what Batman would. I don't know if I like that. Compared to other superheroes Batman walks pretty close to the edge. Getting harder than him makes a villain. He's got an old training partner who's come to make that point. Although I do agree with him on the franchising thing.

Things I liked: Alfred's written really well this issue. He continues to be the one man that can really put Batman in his place.

Things I didn't like: Tomasi's making Damian out to be some kind of serial killer. Yes, he was trained to be an assassin, bit when he was with Dick I never got the feeling that he had an unquenchable blood lust. He doesn't kill because he can. The killing of the bat was not needed. Now Bruce has gone and bought him a dog and I'm actually concerned for its well-being.

Batgirl #2

I'm trying to figure out if this one got a new artist. Her costume seems a lot more articulated and armored than it did last issue. It looks more like Batman's costume now.

The writing is still really good in this issue. Simone is spending the time to let the readers really learn who Barbara is and why she does the things she does. I liked how she worked out how to fight Mirror even though she lacks the physical size of Batman.

Mirror as a villain I'm not sure about. We've been let into his origin and his motives now and it starts to make sense, for a Gotham villain anyway, but I don't know how Batgirl's name ended up on his list. Barbara's I get, she should have died when the Joker shot her, but what does that have to do with Batgirl? Shouldn't most of her activities not be known?

Things I liked: Simone's writing continue to impress.

Things I didn't like: the policewoman's continued vendetta against Batgirl. At least it pointed out the Gordon probably knows.

Stormwatch #1

This one actually intrigued me. I thought that DC didn't really need another super team with all the Justice Leagues running around but this one actually has a purpose I'll stick around.

Things I liked: good introduction to everything without being being mostly exposition.

Things I didn't like: not sure about the Martian Manhunter.

Static Shock #1

Mostly a generic superhero comic. I think it might be taking place in the future, but maybe it's just comic book tech. It feels like the next issue of a regular series but it's the first issue. I have no clue what's going on.

Things I liked: the scene with him st home with his parents and sister.

Things I didn't like: too many dialogue boxes.

Red Lanterns #1

So Green Lanterns work on will and Red Lanterns work on rage. Every time I've seen a Red Lantern they've come across as the bad guy. This issue doesn't change my mind. I don't know how they expect to have a whole series based on this group. They're so stereotypical as villains. It's even space sector 666.

Things I liked: the art was OK.

Things I didn't like: I don't like this as a concept.

O.M.A.C #1

Meh. I was expecting more from this one because I do like Keith Giffen but it just wasn't there.

Things I liked: Giffen's style is reminiscent of Jack Kirby.

Things I didn't like: it just wasn't good.

Men at War #1

This was really good. The art was well done, the story was great and they were using everything available to tell the story. Even taking into account how the existence of metahumans might change wars. It's too bad that I don't really like war stories. Otherwise I'd probably keep up with this one. I hope it finds a niche.

Things I liked: pretty much everything but the genre.

Things I didn't like: the backup story. It just wasn't as good as the first one and DC could have keep this to regular size instead of expanding and charging an extra dollar.

Hawk and Dove #1

I have a soft spot for Hawk and Dove and I so wanted to enjoy this. First up: the art sucks. Rob Liefeld does not know how to draw people. Their facial expressions are not natural or they look angry. All the time. Then there's the story. It's not bad, it's trying to start in the middle of action so that the rest of the issue with all the talking seems less boring. I don't like the way Hawk's being written, but I kind of like Hank.

I'll probably give this a second chance. I want to find out what Dove's hiding and why Hawk doesn't want to work with her.

Things I liked: the story eventually drew me in. How can she have a relationship with Deadman anyway?

Things I didn't like: Rob Liefeld.

Green Arrow #1

I went back and forth reading this one. I don't know if it's worth keeping up with. I like Ollie's new costume, but I miss his beard. He's not working alone, I don't know that I like his supporters. I think I'm going to give it a little time.

Things I liked: the art was quite nice and the story well paced.

Things I didn't like: not sure what really makes him different than Batman.

Batwing #1

I don't like the idea of Batman Incorporated. It doesn't sit well with me but I guess it's here to stay.

Batwing is the African Batman. He's more armored up than Bruce and he can fly but everything else seems he same. He's got a "Batwingcave", a butler and Batman's computer. Interestingly, his secret ID is a police officer. Makes me wonder about Africa's crime problems if a policeman feels he has to work outside the law.

Things I liked: the art is stunning. It's like a painting.

Things I didn't like: it was a bit bloodier than I expected.

All in all, I'm wiling to give it a shot.

Animal Man #1

Wow! I was aware Animal Man could be good. I remember back in the day when he was part of Vertigo and there were some cool stories being done but I never really got into them. That's why I didn't pick this up in print. I'm kind of sorry I didn't this was a great read. I wasn't sure about the beginning. It seemed like it was trying for a Watchmen feel, which I didn't like but it all came together in the end.

Things I liked: the medium was very well used. Writing, story, colour and lettering all had a part to play in this issue.

Things I didn't like: Buddy's new costume - too much blue and not enough orange.

Action Comics #1

So Superman is supposed to be more down to earth. Doesn't have all the powers (although they're developing) and is wearing jeans and workbooks. I guess this is part of the 5 years ago as Superman just appeared 6 months ago. I'll have to see how he's introduced in Justice League because right now it doesn't fit.

Things I liked: the art was pretty.

Things I didn't like: nope, still don't like Superman.

Detective Comics #2

I like the way Tony Daniel writes the relationship between Batman and Gordon. It has the feeling of a long partnership where they know each other well enough that they don't need to say everything. I find that Daniel is also really emphasizing the "playboy" aspect of Bruce Wayne. He holds a meeting on a rock wall and he has sex with a reporter in his office. Nothing much happens in this issue, it's moving forward to the next episode. Even the Joker's involvement in #1 seems to be a set up for another of Daniel's creepy villains. This one is the Dollmaker. I would have liked to see what happened to the Joker as #1 was a cliffhanger but I suspect more is coming.

Things I liked: the pacing and dialogue. Daniel really has a handle on these characters.

Things I didn't like: what makes Charlotte Rivers different from Viki Vale?

Justice League International #2

So the first issue was bringing the team together and the second issue is them facing their first villain. A very familiar villain.

The cover features a very large hand. I guess it's a Singleman, but I keep calling it a Sentinal. And it looks lime their big bad is Galactus. I hope that Jurgens stops mining Marvel for ideas soon. I like the characters too much for this story.

Things I liked: the characters continue to draw me into the story.

Things I didn't like: I've never been interested in the Galactus saga. At least the last time I read it in DC it was a parody.