Review: Where Two Bonds Meet

Where Two Bonds Meet by John Walker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As you’ve probably observed from my previous reviews, I have thoroughly enjoyed this series. Watching the burgeoning bond between Ethan and Vespa, the titular unwanted starship, has been a highlight.

Having established that core bond in previous entries, this installment brilliantly explores how it impacts the rest of the crew. On top of that, we get a solid redemption arc and a tantalizing further glimpse into the creators of the gift-ships.

There is definitely scope for further books—perhaps a return to Earth next?

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Review: Where Two Bonds Meet

Where Two Bonds Meet by John Walker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: The Authority (1999-2002): Book Two

The Authority (1999-2002): Book Two by Mark Millar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great follow-up to the first volume. The stories here are arguably more shocking, with some distinctly Millaresque moments that add a spicy flavour to the book.

Personally, I thought Volume 1 was stronger in terms of both story and art, as Ellis’s arc felt like a more cohesive unit. While I do love the art in Volume 2, none of it quite reaches the heights of Hitch (which is no slight on the artists here at all). That said, the artwork in both volumes complemented the narratives perfectly; in Volume 2, the spicier content suited Quitely brilliantly and was wonderfully reminiscent of his run on New X-Men with Grant Morrison.

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Review: Eyes Open, Hands Empty

Eyes Open, Hands Empty by John Walker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

At the time of writing this, I am already nearing the end of the third book, so I will keep this brief!

The story continues, deepening the bond between Ethan, Vesper, and Kal. They are now partnered with a group of fellow "gift ship" owners and survivors of the mysterious forces hunting them.

The crew makes great strides throughout this adventure, but they also make some costly mistakes. We get to know a little more about the mysterious creators of the ships, along with some great teasers about the people hunting them.

If you liked the first book, this sequel perfectly carries on and expands the story. If you haven't read the first one yet, definitely do so!

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Review: Eyes Open, Hands Empty

Eyes Open, Hands Empty by John Walker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: Unwanted Starship

Unwanted Starship by John Walker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Let me start by saying that I am already listening to book two of this series, which should give you a pretty clear indication of how much I enjoyed this title!

It is a fun, engaging story that outlines the beginning of a unique relationship—not one of romance, but of a deep, mutual bond.

Ethan is a run-of-the-mill machine repair engineer at a factory. While his work might seem mundane, his connection to it runs much deeper; he has a unique ability to understand the machinery he maintains, making him a bit of a "machine whisperer." This talent sets the perfect stage for the unexpected partnership he stumbles into.

Enter a "gift ship"—a mysterious vessel sent out when a species reaches a certain level of technological criteria. Built by unknown architects, the ship is designed to form an unbreakable bond with the very first entity that makes contact with it.

And so, the adventure begins. What starts as a reluctant bond for Ethan quickly threatens his safe, predictable life, exposing him to dangers both terrestrial and extra-terrestrial.

How will this bond develop? Well, grab a copy and find out!

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Review: Unwanted Starship

Unwanted Starship by John Walker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: The Authority (1999-2002): Book One

The Authority (1999-2002): Book One by Warren Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I regret not coming to this story sooner; it was a title I’d long been aware of, but had never actually read. Ultimately, this graphic novel represents a fantastic marriage of story and art—it is a prime example of exactly what the medium can achieve.

As a fan of Bryan Hitch’s work since his Marvel UK days, I can see that this was the turning point that elevated him from an artist to a true storyteller. While Warren Ellis is a fantastic writer, it’s Hitch who gives this title its massive impact. A special shout-out must also go to the brilliant inks by the late Paul Neary (another deeply familiar name from the Marvel UK era).

Did anyone else spot the Dez Skinn reference? A lovely little nod to those classic roots.

Give this a try—especially if you're a fan of The Ultimates. Now, it's time for me to do a bit of exploration into Stormwatch.

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Review: The Water That Falls on You from Nowhere

The Water That Falls on You from Nowhere by John Chu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An interesting short story exploring a gay relationship up against the views of a traditional Chinese family. It has a fascinating sci-fi premise: if you lie, water falls on you. There's no rhyme or reason given for why this happens, and as a big sci-fi reader, I loved that it was left unexplained. The concept drives the plot without ever distracting from the story's real heart: love conquering intolerance.

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Review: The Water That Falls on You from Nowhere

The Water That Falls on You from Nowhere by John Chu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: The Subtle Art of Folding Space

The Subtle Art of Folding Space by John Chu
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Let me start by saying that there were some genuinely interesting aspects to this book; I particularly liked the metaphysical nature of the world-building.

While I don't entirely agree with comments claiming the book is hard to follow, I can see where they are coming from. The world-building is solid, but it could have been made a bit more accessible for casual readers.

Additionally, I was left wanting more from the resolution. It felt like there were little to no consequences for the actions taken. As for the sister, there were moments when she felt a bit two-dimensional, and I would have liked to see more exposition regarding her character. The final big confrontation also felt a little short.

All in all, I enjoyed the book. It introduces some genuinely interesting concepts, but it ultimately could have been expanded a bit. I hope this is the start of a series, as I would love to see a further exploration of these characters—in particular, the sister.

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Review: The Subtle Art of Folding Space

The Subtle Art of Folding Space by John Chu
My rating: 3 of 5 stars



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Review: A Darker Magic

A Darker Magic by Glynn Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great book in the Starship's Mage series.

Whilst some I notice have bemoaned the minor appearances of Damion the titular mage I for one have enjoyed once again seeing Roselyn develop as a character. She is once again thrown into the fray at the behest of Mars and *possible spoiler* handles the somewhat inevitable maelstrom with aplomb.

I'm pretty sure we will see her become a hand at some point and can't wait to see how her character progresses in subsequent books.

Yes, it would be nice to see DM more often in the stories but, his elevated position somewhat necessitates the rise of other principle protagonists.

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Review: The Infinity Gauntlet

The Infinity Gauntlet by Jim Starlin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What can I say really? this is one of those classic Marvel stories.
To my chagrin it is also one which I have not previously read despite my love for comics and Marvel. In fairness it has actually been on my self for a while and finally decided it was time to read it.

If you have seen the movie story-line, it will come as no surprise that it varies a fair bit. The comic tale is deeper includes a myriad of characters not included in the movies (for legal reasons and those of brevity). I've always liked Adam Warlock as a character and was patiently waiting for his appearance but, I was left a little flat. I understand that the movies could not replicate his key role in the story in the way the comic did but, I felt they could have done more.

One of the key differences is one of Thanos' motives. I've always found it amusing that the true reason for the "snap" was one of love. In his desperation to woo lady Death he effectively kills half the universe. Less of the moral justification present in the movies.

If you want a timeless Marvel tale with a little more depth than the movies and a greater roster of characters then give this a read

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Review: Atmosphere

Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Whilst the book is a work of fiction, it highlights the very real struggle for gender equality at NASA in the 1980s.

The story focuses on a group of "AsCans" (Astronaut Candidates) training to earn a place on the early space shuttle flights. The principal candidates are female trainees who have finally been accepted into the program. At the center of it all is Joan, a brilliant teacher who has been obsessed with the night skies since childhood. Throughout the book, we see her struggles with breaking barriers, balancing family, and navigating her sexuality.

I won't go into too much detail, but let's just say she is a devoted aunt to her sister's child. Her sister frequently takes advantage of Joan's love for her niece; she is the sort of person who clearly loves her child but has a strong tendency to focus on herself.

This is definitely worth a read if you were around in the '80s or have any interest in NASA history.

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Review: New Avengers, Vol. 1: Everything Dies

New Avengers, Vol. 1: Everything Dies by Jonathan Hickman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Really enjoyed this story we get to see more of the Illuminati of superheroes, the self imposed custodians of the Infinity Gems. This occurred a good year or so after I stopped reading X-Men but, I believe it occurs shortly after Avengers vs X-Men so, this is at the point when Professor X is dead (he comes back if I remember rightly...this is comics after all).

We get to see some deep moral questioning and watch the Illuminati members struggle with their morals and just what they would do to save parallel world and the multiverse if it meant to destroy another.

Nice to see that Professor X has entrusted Beast with the Gem he was custodian of (ironically in recent comic events I believe have shown Earth 616's Hank to be less than morally virtuous).

Great story from start to finish with great art.

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Review: Elliptical Billiard Balls: Eccentric Short Stories in Sci-Fi, Tech and Alternate Worlds

Elliptical Billiard Balls: Eccentric Short Stories in Sci-Fi, Tech and Alternate Worlds by Neil Rackham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great collection of interesting sci-fi short stories.
Some rather intriguing concepts, ever wondered what dogs would say if they could speak?
Perhaps you have wondered what a business consultant in an ecclesiastical scenario would be like?

Really enjoyed the view of tech entrepreneurs being juxtaposed with the fashion industry

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Review: The Infinity Gauntlet

The Infinity Gauntlet by Jim Starlin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: Atmosphere

Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: New Avengers, Vol. 1: Everything Dies

New Avengers, Vol. 1: Everything Dies by Jonathan Hickman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars



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Review: The Service of Mars

The Service of Mars by Glynn Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Really enjoyed this book.
Another great entry in the series.
Whilst it is a shame we get less of the titular mage I do enjoy seeing how Roslyn Chambers is continuing to develop.

Much like Stewart's Duchy of Terra series (a personal fave) I believe viewing the progression of the major characters and seeing the development of new ones adds a richness to the series.

Plus, Roslyn is frankly a baddass so there :P

Another thing I have been appreciating is the reintroduction in this and the previous book of Kelly Lamonte.

Great continuation.....onto book 10.

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Review: The Transformers: Dark Cybertron, Volume 1

The Transformers: Dark Cybertron, Volume 1 by John Barber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Haven't read any TF titles (other than Regeneration One) really since back in the OG Marvel days.
Despite that I still really enjoyed this title.
I do have some questions about certain bits of law I have clearly missed too.

Overall enjoyment was not affected too much by the contrasting art styles but, I do think that inconsistencies such as this detract from quality a little. The title as a whole would benefit from consistency in the art.


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Review: Transformers '84: Legends & Rumors 100-Page Giant

Transformers '84: Legends & Rumors 100-Page Giant by Bill Mantlo
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A fun read which holds some great childhood memories.
The most interesting part of this graphic novel was the reprints of early Marvel UK stories.

I particularly enjoyed Mike Collin's older artwork and the portrayal of characters in close resemblance with the toys. Amusingly I remember him talking at a convention about how when he met the American creative team they told he he was drawing the characters all wrong. Apparently there was a bible which the American team had as a reference which the UK team had not seen up to that point.


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Review: A Darker Magic

A Darker Magic by Glynn Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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