The Incal, Vol. 1: The Black Incal by Alejandro JodorowskyMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
View all my reviews
Saturday, 8 August 2026
Review: The Incal, Vol. 1: The Black Incal
The Incal, Vol. 1: The Black Incal by Alejandro JodorowskyMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
View all my reviews
Wednesday, 29 July 2026
Review: Where Two Bonds Meet
Where Two Bonds Meet by John WalkerMy 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?
View all my reviews
Tuesday, 28 July 2026
Tuesday, 21 July 2026
Review: The Authority (1999-2002): Book Two
The Authority (1999-2002): Book Two by Mark MillarMy 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.
View all my reviews
Saturday, 18 July 2026
Review: Eyes Open, Hands Empty
Eyes Open, Hands Empty by John WalkerMy 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!
View all my reviews
Wednesday, 15 July 2026
Tuesday, 14 July 2026
Review: Unwanted Starship
Unwanted Starship by John WalkerMy 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!
View all my reviews
Sunday, 5 July 2026
Review: The Authority (1999-2002): Book One
The Authority (1999-2002): Book One by Warren EllisMy 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.
View all my reviews
Friday, 3 July 2026
Review: The Water That Falls on You from Nowhere
The Water That Falls on You from Nowhere by John ChuMy 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.
View all my reviews
Saturday, 27 June 2026
Review: The Subtle Art of Folding Space
The Subtle Art of Folding Space by John ChuMy 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.
View all my reviews
Friday, 26 June 2026
Review: A Darker Magic
A Darker Magic by Glynn StewartMy 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.
View all my reviews
Review: The Infinity Gauntlet
The Infinity Gauntlet by Jim StarlinMy 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
View all my reviews
Review: Atmosphere
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins ReidMy 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.
View all my reviews
Review: New Avengers, Vol. 1: Everything Dies
New Avengers, Vol. 1: Everything Dies by Jonathan HickmanMy 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.
View all my reviews
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 RackhamMy 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
View all my reviews
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)