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Kate Kasenow recommends
Southern Cross #1
In just one issue, Southern Cross has already established itself as a deeply engaging mystery on the precipice of the cosmic horror genre. Though the origins of the genre can be traced back hundreds of years, newer stories such as this take on its themes and reinvigorate them with an intriguing cast of characters as well as a fresh perspective on the nature of fear itself.
Writer Becky Cloonan (beckycloonan) sets up this issue much like a puzzle: the pieces are laid out before us and carefully examined through the lens of our protagonist Alex Braith; the edges of the story are constructed, leading us closer and closer to the mystery surrounding the death of Alex’s sister; by the end of the issue, we are given just a taste of the full picture. Already, the story starts to transform itself from the preconceived notions that readers might have developed as the issue began. If there is one thing I can say now for sure, it’s that this is going to be one fascinating ride. Much of the credit for the ominous tone of this issue is due to the art and color team of Andy Belanger and Lee Loughridge. In order to match the creeping subtlety of Cloonan’s work, Belanger has pushed forward the dark details in every scene while Loughridge’s desaturated palette sets the tone for the entire world this team has created.
Space may very well be the final frontier, but Southern Cross exposes the danger of its mysteries.
[Read Southern Cross #1 on comiXology]
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Kate Kasenow recommends Hawkeye #21
Long ago, before comiXology even featured reviews—before comiXology even had a tumblr presence, we had the staff picks and the first book I chose for my pick was Hawkeye #1. At that time, the series was a refreshing change of pace—so much so that it revitalized my interest in the entire superhero genre of comics. I truly believe that it’s at least partially the success of Hawkeye that has catapulted the success of other offbeat Marvel series (which also just so happen to number among my favorites) such as She-Hulk, Thor: God of Thunder, Ms. Marvel, Moon Knight, and more.
Now, as the Hawkeye series draws to a close, I feel like it’s my duty to tell each and every one of you that it is still one of the most incredibly well-written and illustrated series out there today.
Not only is Matt Fraction’s (mattfraction) writing succinctly marvelous, but it’s also visceral in the most genuine sense. In the time we’ve taken to get here, to #21, these characters have all found their distinct New York—and sometimes Californian—voices. Sometimes, it’s what Fraction doesn’t write coupled with David Aja’s unique artistic style that leaves us curled up on the floor in a puddle of emotions. While this series may have had its share of guest artists, Aja’s work truly shines as representative of the work that started us all on this incredible journey.
And this issue is just the beginning of the end—for Clint, his building fellows, Pizza Dog, as well as the team of Fraction and Aja. They’ve taken this time to highlight a few characters we’ve barely met as well as strengthen characters we thought we knew. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this first part of an amazing finale.
For fans of: Superheroes, drama, and action
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Kate Kasenow recommends Rachel Rising #30
Let’s cut to the chase. Rachel Rising #30 dropped Wednesday and you should already be reading it.
The various works of Terry Moore (terrymooreart) have been nothing short of prolific, and while Rachel Rising may not be the adventurous romp of self-discovery that Strangers in Paradise is, it tells its own independent tale of empowerment and insight. In the first arc of the series we meet all of our major players: Rachel’s just come back from the dead, literally; Aunt Johnny is the local mortician; Jet, Rachel’s best friend, starts having a similar problem with staying deceased; Zoe is a ten-year-old with murder on the brain; the ancient witch, Lilith, seeks revenge upon the town of Manson; and Malus is a demon determined to summon the AntiChrist. Although it has all the ingredients of your typical horror story, Rachel Rising defies labels and gives readers plenty of wit and heart to balance out the gore.
Now, back to #30. Old villains are reappearing and the cast must once again reunite to overcome them, but Rachel is on a mission to find her own killer. Will she lose herself in the process?
As always, Moore’s art shines throughout the issue, bringing unique detail to both the natural landscapes and the gritty violence. What really intrigues me about the series though is the continued unparalleled quality of Moore’s hand-lettering. While most comics lettering today has become standardized, Moore continues to display his characters’ unique voices through the art of typography making his works a cut above your average series.
So what are you waiting for? Immerse yourself in Rachel Rising today!
[Pick up Rachel Rising #30 here!]
For fans of: Leading Ladies, horror, suspense, and the supernatural
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Kate, Jen, & Kara recommend Harlequin Comics
Alluring emerald orbs glistening in the moonlight, lustful looks beneath fluttering eyelashes, and unfathomable passion burning in hearts that can’t contain themselves…now get a Japanese manga artist to illustrate all of these feelings, and you will have Harlequin in a rose-scented nutshell. Released weekly in our backlist, Harlequin manga are a hidden treasure chest of desire, chivalry, and—of course—drama. Out of the many titles that make the entire library shine, here are just a few of our personal faves:
Kate recommends The Sheik and the Bought Bride:
While it might sound typical, The Sheik and the Bought Bride is anything but thanks entirely to the strength of its leading lady. After being sold to Prince Kateb by her own father, Victoria, instead of playing the victim, uses the bid as an opportunity to take charge of her own life. As the leader of the prince’s harem, she fights for the rights of the less fortunate and strengthens the economy of their village. Even the romantic aspects of this story are balanced well: Victoria and Kateb discover their feelings organically throughout the story, demonstrating desire fortified with compassion. Despite the story’s whimsical nature, it’s nothing short of brilliantly progressive.
Jen recommends Domesticating Luc:
Julie only has eyes for Primus, the handsome and grey-eyed Italian that captured her heart. Too bad Luc, Primus’ owner, would rather Julie, the dog trainer, threw him a bone instead. It’s going to be a lot of trouble training both Luc the playboy as a pet owner and the oddly contrary Primus as an obedient pet in Domesticating Luc.
Domesticating Luc departs from a lot of typical Harlequin tropes with a focus on humor and a female lead holding the reins (or the leash, in this case). Packed with expressive characters and a spotlight-stealing pooch, it veers towards romantic comedy rather than bodice-ripping romance. There’s underlying heart to the story of a boy, his dog, the loss of his recently deceased grandmother, and the growing love between Julie and Luc, and it makes this tale of puppy love a special treat in Harlequin’s library.
Kara recommends Mistress Bought and Paid For:
Mistress Bought and Paid For is my go-to Harlequin recommendation for both first time readers and long time romance fans. We jump right into the action on the first page: Our heroine is a supermodel who has fallen on hard times and is accused of stealing from the charity she is supposed to be working with, our hero is her billionaire ex-boyfriend seeking revenge for her apparent cuckolding ways. Right off the bat, he offers her a solution to her plight: become his mistress for a year, and get the money to repay her supposed debt to the charity. Their levels of manipulation and miscommunication are only matched by their level of differences. He has a yacht, she’s afraid of the sea—will their love sink or swim?
Harlequin publishes a plethora of stories about philandering princes, scandalous sheiks, beautiful billionaires, and naughty nobles. The drama is unparalleled, and the narratives are as engrossing as they are turbulent. If you like romances, shojo manga, or early-Aughts romcoms, chances are you’ll love what Harlequin has to offer.
Jen Keith and Kate Kasenow are digital editors tasked with preparing Harlequins for comiXology Guided View. Kara Szamborski, supervisor of the International Production team at comiXology, was destined to read them from afar. Despite all obstacles, these three have found their way to one another and have made it their mission to spread the love of Harlequin throughout the universe.
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Kate Kasenow recommends Deadhorse: Ballad of the Two Headed Dog #2
A key, a runaway, a Sasquatch, a deserted campground, a mad scientist, and an ancient temple…all pieces to the mystery that is “Deadhorse I: Dead Birds,” the critically acclaimed self-published comic from creators Eric Grissom (ericgrissom), Phil Sloan, and David Halvorson. Now, in the beginnings of “Deadhorse II: Ballad of the Two Headed Dog” we have a few new pieces…a hotel that never was and—of course—a two-headed dog. If you haven’t been keeping up, now is a great time to jump into the adventures of William Pike, who’s just been kidnapped by an all-girl rock band.
Yeah, I’ll bet you never thought you’d hear all those words together in a sentence; all the more reason you should pick up Ballad of the Two Headed Dog #2 before the mysteries of fourth dimensional transgression get any worse.
In this newest issue this fantastic work has acquired a new colorist, Marissa Louise (marissadraws), who builds on Halvorson’s work by pushing the color story even further. Throughout flashbacks and emotional upsets, Louise captures character moments perfectly. Sloan’s art continues to impress with the depths contained in the brevity of his style. Last, but never least, Grissom’s writing tells a particularly poignant story in this issue: Prior to the events of his son’s funeral, we learn more about Gadsworth’s drive to find Pike, who goes on to reveal an intimate understanding of the supernatural events in Deadhorse, Alaska, while his friends Elise and Edgar are in more danger than anyone realizes.
And everything changes.
[Read Deadhorse: Ballad of the Two headed Dog #2 on comiXology]
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Kate Kasenow recommends Jim Henson's The Storyteller: Witches
Jim Henson’s The Storyteller has a deep and rich history which has only been enhanced by the current incarnations published by BOOM! Archaia. This newest addition to the series is an attempt at a more focused collection of material, one that exceeds all expectations the audience may have. When one hears a title like ‘Witches,’ certain imagery comes to mind—usually of the Halloweenish variety—but the first issue of The Storyteller: Witches, this cliché is laid to rest deftly by the gorgeous illustrations and fantastic tale spun by S. M. Vidaurri (smvidaurri).
The story includes familiar elements of old stories as well as new and shining details to entice the reader throughout. What truly stands out, however, are Vidaurri’s unique watercolor paintings that portray his story perfectly. Every inch of the image is well-crafted and delivered especially the lettering, which brings to mind ancient illuminated texts. Together, the words and images tell a tale of loss and the strength that can be forged by it. There are enchanted forests, royalty, magical creatures, quests, and a witch of course! Will the princess be able to save the day or will she be outwitted by the mysterious Lord of the Forest?
There’s so much to love about this first issue, I can hardly wait to see what they come up with for the next!
[Read Jim Henson’s The Storyteller: Witches #1 here!]
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Kate Kasenow recommends Bob's Burgers #1
The announcement of any new series comes with a lot of emotions—usually various combinations of trepidation and excitement, but I can tell you from personal experience that the announcement that the hit comedy cartoon, Bob’s Burgers, would be getting a comics adaptation made my day like an infamous Meatsiah burger!
Created by the writers and animators of the cartoon, Bob’s Burgers #1 delights with five brand new short stories about the Belcher family and their non-stop shenanigans. Journey into adventure with the Equestranauts during a glimpse of Tina’s Erotic Friend Fiction! Explore the pun-derful creative process of Bob in Burger of the Day Ideas! A dark and terrible secret awaits in Louise’s UnSolved Mysteries and Curious Curiosities! Relax and unwind with Letters from Linda! Sing along in Gene Belcher Presents!
The world of Bob’s Burgers jumps from screen to page effortlessly and will have you inappropriately snorting with laughter in no time. My personal fave will probably always be Tina’s deadpan delivery, but a close second is Louise’s passionate conviction—which might not always be right, but is most certainly one hell of a ride.
If you’ve been wondering how you’re going to make it through without any new Bob’s Burgers until October, wonder no more!
[Pick up Bob’s Burgers #1 here!]
For fans of: comedy, action, mystery, musicals, and burgers
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Kate Kasenow recommends Moon Knight #6
Continuing a long-running streak of brilliant reboots, the newest series of Moon Knight does not disappoint! While issue #6 is the finale of the current creative team, it invigorates the story of Mr. Knight and passes on a truly impeccable story unto the next.
In this issue, we are not lead by Moon Knight at all, but the tragic rise of a would-be antagonist. The plot of this issue really drives forward the idea that as not all heroes are created equal neither are villains and sometimes the best of intentions can lead to the wost of consequences. The character of Moon Knight, especially during this current series, is rife with both personal and psychological issues. The exploration of these issues from both sides—from the perspectives of both protagonist and antagonist, is what makes this series truly shine.
Behind these perspectives, is the seasoned writer Warren Ellis, who’s sparse style really packs a punch—sometimes literally. His characters are often reserved until their thoughts have marinated enough to let the words flow freely, but when they do the story rolls along with them. Each character is full of depth that allows them to exist fully in the dark underworld that Ellis paints with his writing. Backing up Ellis’ words is the fantastic art of Declan Shalvey (dshalv) with colors by Jordie Bellaire (jordiecolorsthings). The mood of the colors is always pitch-perfect and Shalvey’s lines move effortlessly across the page, each one laid out with an incredible sense of design.
This issue is the swan song of an incredible team and isn’t to be missed!
[Read Moon Knight #6 on comiXology!]
For fans of: superheroes, crime, mystery, action
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Kate Kasenow recommends The Woods #3
In the first two issues, new and original BOOM! Studios’ series The Woods established itself as the perfect storm of apocalyptic high school adventures in sci-fi horror. If that phrasing alone seems a bit intense for you, then you’d better fasten your seatbelts, because issue #3 is one wild ride.
Despite what the faculty and staff seem to think, things are looking grim for the students of Bay Point Prepartory Academy. After getting mysteriously transported to another world, the principal is daydreaming while the athletics department is turning the school into the dystopian setting of 1984. Meanwhile, Adrian Roth is fighting over control of a ragtag group of students with Sanami Ota. Both have powerful ideas about what needs to be done, but, unfortunately, so does everyone else.
Underneath the fantastic setting and lurking horrors of the plot, the story is essentially a diverse set of character studies. Writer James Tynion IV (jamesthefourth) has done a brilliant job of delving into each character’s personality and initiatives while still leaving a lot of mystery for readers to contemplate. Not to be discounted in the least, Michael Dialynas’ (thewoodencrown) artwork gives a unique look and feel to the multitude of genres represented. I’ve long been a fan of Dialynas’ work and seeing him tackle both endearing character moments as well as monstrous acts of violence is both refreshing and invigorating. Like a bright cherry atop this cake of terror, Jose Gonzalez’s colors add vibrance and surreality to this mysterious new world and its newest residents.
By now you might be asking yourself, “Why high school students? How will they survive? Who’s behind all this?”
Jump into The Woods now and find out!
[Read The Woods #3 on comiXology!]
For fans of: action, science fiction, horror
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Kate Kasenow recommends She-Hulk #5
I have been waiting a long while to tell you guys all about the newest She-Hulk series and now the time has finally come! The series is already on its fifth issue, but things are just getting started for newly self-employed lawyer Jennifer Walters, AKA the sensational She-Hulk.
This issue is written by brilliant series writer Charles Soule, drawn by the phenomenal Ron Wimberly (d3-14), and colored by the vivid Rico Renzi, but I’d also like to give a shout-out to series cover artist Kevin Wada (kevinwada) for capturing the essence of each issue perfectly! Issue #5 focuses on the beginning of Jen’s quest for information on the mysterious blue file. While the case has been hinted at throughout the series, we are just now digging in for what looks like a wild search for the truth.
One of the greatest achievements of this series is letting go of stereotypical superhero antics and focusing on just what it takes to balance reality with super-powered responsibility. The life of a superhero may never be normal, but the She-Hulk team has done a fantastic job of making this world feel real. The action is intense as well as fun while story soars through witty dialogue.
Carrying the entire story is a fantastic female cast. Alongside She-Hulk is the vivacious Pasty Walker, AKA Hellcat, and Angie Huang as Jen’s super paralegal. All three of these fabulous ladies are tough without losing their femininity, caring without losing their wit, and not one of them hesitates to be themselves whether in court or in the face of Dr. Doom.
These are only a few reasons that everyone should jump into this series stat!
For fans of: action, female leads, superheroes
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Kate Kasenow recommends Princess Ugg #1
Ted Naifeh is already known for fantastic tales that throw fantasy tropes out the nearest window, but Princess Ugg #1, published by onipress, takes it up a notch, introducing us to a new princess that doesn’t seem to know the meaning of the word…yet.
At story’s beginning, we meet Ügla, Princess of Grimmeria, daughter of warriors, and stranger to luxury. Simultaneously, we’re given a glimpse of the Princess of Atraesca, but we need only this glimpse to see that this maiden fair is everything the stereotypical princess should be—the complete opposite of Ügla. The entire issue focuses on the dichotomy of these two girls, who are to attend the same educational institution, setting up a story that will surely be full of action as well as hijinks.
Naifeh’s writing is mythic in its scope but lively in its tone and each character speaks with a unique voice. What really shines throughout this issue is Naifeh’s unique artistic style, which illustrates the tiniest details beautifully. Warren Wucinich’s colors compliment both the story and the world with vibrant palettes and touches of atmosphere that draw us in, panel by panel, to this new world.
If the delivery of this first issue’s story is any indication, this series promises to be both fun and illuminating. Much like his previous works, such as the Courtney Crumrin series, Naifeh is sure to focus on the virtues his characters will learn from one another, though not in ways we might suspect.
Follow their adventure here for more action from the wee bonny berserker, Princess Ugg!
For fans of: action, female leads, fantasy
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Kate Kasenow recommends Shutter #2
In just two issues of Shutter, Joe Keatinge (joekeatinge) and Leila del Duca (assortedfoliage) have captured the imagination that epitomizes fantasy, sci-fi, and futuristic comics. Alongside other fresh Image titles like Pretty Deadly and Rocket Girl, the pages of Shutter #2 give readers a thrilling female-driven tale.
Keatinge’s writing is fast-paced and quirky—a perfect fit for the colorful world he’s created to support his cast. When the story began, our star Kate Kristopher was already a seasoned professional when it came to danger; in fact, she seemed pretty bored of it all. In the second issue, escaping a kidnapping attempt and the mysterious mention of possible siblings intrigues her, making it look like Kate might be back in action. With every issue, the breadth of this comic expands and delights. Not only do we have a fascinating female protagonist, but we have an ever expanding cast of interesting friends, enemies, and yet to be revealed characters that may just be a little of both. Keep an eye on Kate’s sentient clock-cat—he’s my personal fave!
A perfect compliment to this incredible world is del Duca’s fantastic illustrations paired with Owen Gieni’s vibrant colors. What has been set up in this story is any artist’s dream—a vast canvas filled with anything and everything from Irish gangster lions to ghost ninjas—and both del Duca and Gieni illustrate it all with grace and strength reverberating through every panel.
Keatinge and del Duca have not only introduced a new version of reality, they’ve also hooked this reader into a massive and mysterious adventure. Jump into the story now to follow this amazing series!
For fans of: action, female leads, fantasy, sci-fi, mythology, mystery
Kate Kasenow is a comics artist from Indiana currently living in Manhattan. She works at ComiXology as a Lead Digital Editor and spends most of her spare time re-reading J. R. R. Tolkien.