Comic Book Ghost

Follow to the new Blog Please

2010-06-15T20:06:00.000-07:00

I am coming out of the dark. I wanted to let those that were following, if you still are know.

Been Busy.....but always time for comics.

2009-12-11T04:13:00.001-08:00

I know, I am really being like a ghost. Things have been up and down in my life. Lots of work stuff and other stuff. Still I have found a grouping of Avengers stories. My shop has been having a Monday sale each week since the Monday after Thanksgiving. I went that first Monday and then found 90 comics. The price was 10 for $1.00. So I have been busy reading.

The earlier purchases revolved around the Avengers period where Yellowjacket is charged with being an idiot. I filled in a bit of those. The She-Hulk era and some Wasp as leader time is the rest. I had some nice Iron Man finds. Before the Sale I found the 4-part series for Ice Man from way back. Then during the Sale I found the four issues of the Firestar origin series.

There was a really cool Obama related story from Devil's Due that really highlighted a planetary invasion comic they have. It is called Drafted. I have almost completed Dazzler and Spider-Woman's old series. So I took advantage of the sale to begin another Marvel Woman's book hunt. The Savage She-Hulk is now on the flea market buying list.

One really cool thing about my shop is that you can find entire runs of things. I like that when longbox diving. it is cool to get the whole story sometimes, especially these older series. I did mention that once I found the run of Empire. It is nice to be able to get older books for a lower cost. I also snagged a Battle for the Cowl book, the Man-Bat story, for the low price of 20 cents. That is also cool. My shop will mix in the recent books as well in these discount boxes.

Hopefully I can get some stuff posted. I really need to talk about Batgirl.

CBG

Blackest Night

2009-11-24T19:52:00.000-08:00

I really am liking Blackest Night. I wondered when word leaked about Guy Gardner and the Red Lantern angle what could do that and who could be dying? I saw it in Green Lantern Corps. It was fitting and I hope not a permanent death. I still say the white light will be the way it all ends. What is neat is how creative they are being with this story.

Everyone was making zombie comparisons and yet we now know it is more a puppet master thing going on. The recent ring give a ways have been trickery into selling lower tier titles, yet have had useful tidbits in them. Still, it was such a Marvel thing of DC to do. I will say that the return of Ted Kord in Booster Gold was really good. It helped that the new Blue Beetle is there as well.

Really just felt a need to check in. Don't forget good reads like Echo, Buffy TVS, Witchblade, and Batgirl while Blackest Night rolls onward and upward.

CBG

POWER GIRL

2009-11-03T19:37:00.000-08:00

Have you been reading Power Girl? I must say that this is a comic book I could gave a tween and not be worried about. It is like classic comics, smart, funny, and not dumbed downed. The set up has been a slow boil with many over the top battles along the way. One amazing feat being PG slowly down a falling Manhattan Island while her sidekick Terra made a cushion of earth to catch the land mass.

Terra is the added plus. She is being mentored I guess by Karen Starr. The dynamic between the two women is very well written and fun as well. I like this being part of the book. I also like that it is a title you actually read. Text is very included in the pages. It makes me hopeful that maybe we can get more of this type, if all of you will read it.

In the coming months I know Dr. Mid-Nite will be along and I figure more of the JSA as well. I would love to see a Babara Gordon appearance from the Power Girl side. I have seen PG come into the Birds of Prey and to see Oracle from her side would be a nice story.

If you haven't checked the book out please do. It is a nice and fun read that has become one of my bottom of the stack. Yeah, I do it in reverse. I do read some first because of the "I can't wait" factor, but a few are at the bottom. These are the books I want to savor. Power Girl is in the Savor Stack.

Blackest Night Rocks!

2009-11-01T14:27:00.000-08:00

OK, so I am having trouble being regular with the post. I have been getting my Blackest Night fix in major clumping doses. One advantage of not being able to get to the shop every two weeks (maybe the only advantage) is I get to read consecutive parts of the story. It seems I was on to something with the whole White Lantern idea, "Hal's Final Ring," just maybe not as it will in, but pretty close so far.

Looks like miss Dove is at Peace and Peace gives off a white color for the emotion. She also fried the Black Lanterns around her and deactivated the rings. So Cool!

Many are feeling the economic pinch, this event is at the very least delivering your monies worth. I am worried about what I heard concerning Guy becoming a Red Lantern. I do so like the Indigo Tribe. They rock so far. I like that they seem to have been hidden just for this occasion. I also loved the scene where Larfleeze is being chased by the Black Lanterns he killed to make his construct Corps from. That was so funny.

I am trying to figure out a schedule and a way to post more. I just need so passion to write about things again.

CBG

Avengers find

2009-10-07T20:13:00.001-07:00

I was able to get a run that has issues #202 through #213. It is awesome to get these older stories. When they start a married Vision & Scarlet Witch are on the team, and I love Wanda so this is very cool. Wonderman and Beast have many great scenes and even a single adventure story in this run. We see Thor as Donald Blake and it has Cap and Iron Man. Tigra joins by the end of this run of books and I like seeing her early years.

The highlight is the instance where Hank hits Jan and the paranoia he has leading up to his leaving the team as his Yellow Jacket persona. There is also the way the Wasp is the little flight woman that still is shown as an important part of the team. I hope to do an issue by issue talk on each. I will probably go back and do issue #201 as well since it has been purchased in the past year.

CBG

Wondering?

2009-10-01T05:34:00.001-07:00

Am I through trying to do something online with comics? Not sure. I get my comics in these bulk collections when I can from the shop so I cannot stay current. Doing back issues seems less then fabulous. So I wonder if I can do this and if it is fair to not post regularly. I will see in the coming days.

I am loving the Blackest Night event from DC. I like reading Echo. Recently I got a nice back issue collection of AVENGERS and DAZZLER comics, so that is how I am reading Marvel right now.

I walked away from all new Marvel comics around the start of Brand New Day. Surprisingly I am finding I do not miss the company I grew up on. It is something how I went from years ago reading nothing but Marvel to not reading any new books from them at all.

On the positive front, job is good and I am healthier. Just need more cash coming in, but so far I am struggling along. Sorry it has been so long.

CBG

Sorry Life has kept me busy

2009-08-19T13:03:00.000-07:00

I want to just let everyone know I am still around. My new job has been keeping me busy. Cash flow has made comic purchases spread out. I have some back issue stuff I want to do, but it may take a bit. Hopefully, I will be able to do some new post real soon.

CBG

Wonky Batgirl and Indigo Lanterns Thoughts

2009-07-22T20:39:00.001-07:00

I found this and just thought it was so cute. Click for the Blog where Wonky Batgirl can be found.

OK, I was reading a second go around of the Blackest Night stuff and in Tales of the Corps #1 we get a bit of the Indigo Tribe of Lanterns. Now I am talking about it so you can stop reading if you need to and come back later. So stop already. Why are you still reading? Still here, OK so I have an idea about how the actions can be Compassion.

We see the nomadic tribe of Lanterns walking along and noticing the colors of green and yellow on the horizon. A Green Lantern Corps member and a Sinestro Corps member are locked in battle and the GL has been hurt bad. As he warns them, they babble in an unknown language that even the GL Ring cannot translate. We watch as the supposed leader places her hand upon the GL's chest and Green Energy suffocates him. When he dies, she loses control of Green Energy. We hear I guess the Indigo Staff say Will before it is usurped.

Sinestro dude quickly realizes he needs to battle so he fires a bolt at the Indigo leader and her staff sucks the energy up. We hear the word Fear and suddenly the Lantern is battling a large Yellow Energy creature and it seems he flies away.

How does the actions deal with Compassion? First we must remember that this is on the extreme of the spectrum. Second, to have Compassion one must empathize with another. So the power appears to be to take the power of the closest energy and use it. Taking an idea of empathetic harmony makes sense to me. No clue on weakness. Killing the Green Lantern could be an act of mercy, or they believe in bringing peace through eradication. Would they have killed the Sinestro Corpsman? These are very interesting Lanterns.

CBG

So.........

2009-07-20T20:55:00.001-07:00

yeah, been MIA a bit. Reading novels, readings comics. Blackest Night blew my mind. Those last pages, WOW! OK, I know I need to get back in the swing. On a positive note, it is nice working somewhere they actually are glad you are there. That has been nice. I have been working some and I really need to manage my time better.

CBG

Ramble Ramble Ramble

2009-07-03T08:06:00.000-07:00

It is probably best I am not reviewing right now. I could attempt it here on my Blog, but really I am so busy and undisciplined right now. That is a bad combination. I have scattered some more HeroesCon 09 pics throughout the post to help you deal with my rambling. I am not distancing myself from comics, but I am trying to balance my hobby.

For many years now my comics have helped me survive. From the reviewing giving my mind something to focus on instead of the loss of a loved one to just escaping into a world where evil is always beaten. I have completed runs of old books and found the love of new stories. Each has given me hope as I dealt with such personal issues.

There comes a time I guess where one leaves a certain company behind and that happened for me. I no longer buy current Marvel stories. I became tired of the lack of respect for the characters and I just found the remarks by the current leaders of the publishing side exasperating. I collect the older books like the head Q suggested. I am rediscovering DC as a company. I once again have my love of the Green Lantern side of the company firmly in check. Other characters have brought me a continued level of joy as well.

My guilty pleasure is still Witchblade. I love that it has a depth and characterization to it now. The art is just mind blowing and it truly is a book that delivers on the action. I never thought I could care about Dani like I do Sara, but I do. I am worried for my favorite gals as the War of the Witchblades continue.

Another character I just do not seem to be able to walk away from is Wonder Woman. I took the book off the pull list when money became tight, but I still bought the book. It paid off when she put that axe in the fat head of Ares. I wonder where the story is going to go from the Issue #33's ending.

So that is where I am right now. I have so many old books I might just review them if I can get a schedule in my life and be better with posting.

CBG

HeroesCon: Ladies Turn

2009-06-25T20:28:00.000-07:00

Three awesome costumes. The ladies were well represented this year with the cool and excellent costumes. The Question was particularly striking and really well timed.

CBG

HeroesCon Stuff

2009-06-23T03:08:00.001-07:00

Iron Man with two cute kids.

The little girl was so cute.
The big secret is this is a middle aged man in a very hot outfit, but he was a hit with the kids in a sweet homemade contest.

Batman, Bane, and Huntress.

Superman and a really authentic looking Lex Luthor.

These are just a taste of some of the pics I took this year. I have more to come over the next few days.

CBG

DAY TWO: HeroesCon

2009-06-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

Very tired. Lots of Fifty Cent comics. A sweet MJ print. This adorable little Nova. He was there yesterday, but today I got his pic. Awesome kid. More later, I did finish the run of THE THING, first go around.

CBG

Day One: HeroesCon 2009

2009-06-19T18:21:00.001-07:00

I went to HeroesCon today in Charlotte. Will return tomorrow as well. The Convention was in a different area of the Charlotte Convention Center this year and that was just the start of a weird vibe this year. The other came at the DC Universe Panel. I left after just about ten minutes. I really think not having Dan Didio there was what hurt. He is animated and Satler was not. I was bored and headed back to the floor. I think knowing I could not buy things like I wanted was another thing that hurt my enjoyment.

Had my friend not accompanied me I would have been so bummed. It helped a great deal this year having him around to joke about things. Kelly Yates was awesome to talk to while we wandered. He had some cool Dr. Who cards and other artwork that just rocked. There were some slutty Batgirls floating around. One young boy was dressed as the classic Nova. Saw a few cool kids dressed up. One African-American Captain America that I was unable to nail down for a pic, I hope he is there tomorrow.

I got a Fozzie Bear Head Sketch. The BOOM Studios company had some nice HeroesCon exclusive Covers. There was really not any true deals this year. Prices were stable and the same across the board. Artist have some deals, but not many. I did spy a really cool MJ print I think I will buy tomorrow.

Was just different. I figure I will try some panels again. The Yu Gi Oh regional tournament will be there tomorrow as well. I have always wanted to see the game as it should be played. I did snag some fifty cent books. I also was able to get some signatures. Mark Waid was really nice to talk with along with Renae DeLiz and Ray Dillon. Well, I need rest and some energy restored. Will post about tomorrow when it comes.

CBG

IN BLACKEST NIGHT........

2009-06-16T20:20:00.001-07:00

Straight from the DC Blog comes a suggested list of the Earth Representatives in the Black Lantern Corps. Freaky. A question, if Batman is displaced in time and not really dead, then how can he be a Black Lantern? Could this be how Red Robin figures it out? OK, that is two questions. The Convention hits soon. I will try my best to post pics from the days I go the night after. Low budget this year, still, hoping to find some cool stuff in my smaller price ranges.

CBG

Aren't they just too cute?

2009-06-12T20:44:00.000-07:00

I really do not have a post. Found this somewhere online, forgot where, but I think it is kind of cute. I went to the shop before the Convention. Peddling stuff tomorrow to get just a bit more money for the Convention. So enjoy the happy couple above.

CBG

I am kind of excited about this.......

2009-06-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

I love my super heroines. I think that this is one of the most gorgeous images I have seen around in a while. The simplicity is what makes it work so well. Yes I realize Rich beat me to showing this from the DC Blog, but I am still excited about a new Batgirl, and yes I believe it will be a new Batgirl. I am looking for either Stephanie Brown or as a Dark Horse Misfit. Why ditch the Birds of Prey and have Misfit in the Battle of the Cowl books, if she was being thrown away. This bring Babs back to strong mentor status and gives us an interesting Batgirl.

CGB

It is a post.......

2009-06-05T22:07:00.000-07:00

You should be reading ECHO. They have trades out. You should read. That is all.

CBG

I need to post more, Really I do.

2009-06-01T19:39:00.001-07:00

I know, since I was forced from being a reviewer, I have been a slacker. I really just have not felt the desire right now. To me the industry is fast out pricing itself. I also have read five novels in the month of May. I do recommend the Novels that Greg Rucka wrote for his character of Tara Chace. One is called A GENTLEMAN'S GAME and the sequel is PRIVATE WARS. Both are really good reads. They also helped me to find the first QUEEN & COUNTRY graphic novel. I hope to get some more at the Convention.

Yes, I get to go to HeroesCon. I have employment and I sold some stuff little by little and built a bit of savings and I used some gifted money. I get to go. That is where I snagged the image here, it was on the Blog about the Con. I hope to just find some cool buys and to get a Vampi Kat sketch by Jeanty.

I do want to figure some stuff to jabber about more. Maybe if I can buy comics on a more regular basis I will be inspired to review some books. I really need to sort through some more books before the Con as well.

OK, time to do some more catching up online.

CBG

Did you Dislike (HATE) Brand New Day?

2009-05-27T19:50:00.001-07:00

Then you should click on the magic word,

JACKPOT!

CBG

This is just Funny

2009-05-15T21:04:00.001-07:00

Life has been busy

2009-05-07T19:55:00.001-07:00

So life has become very busy. I am trying to secure an new bit of employment while peddling some wares out in the world. I get to the shop with longer periods in between times. Trying to raise the funds to go to HeroesCon and have a good time. Been buying many novels that I need to read. Did pick up a Greg Rucka novel at a book sale. So yeah, I have been a bit slack around here. My haunting more sporadic. I hope to get a groove going really soon.

CBG

Go and Vote For......

2009-04-28T11:32:00.000-07:00

I have been owing Rich a shout out for a few weeks. He needs your support so go check this out people!

CBG

Rescued: Avengers #159

2009-04-14T16:19:00.001-07:00

Many of you are new to the Ghost and my ways. I know a few of you are followers from way back to an older blog and even my comic reviews. I sadly had to let the old site fold in and hide because of a person who was commenting and not being truthful as to who they were and what they were doing hanging around. The were in my real life and caused trouble for me constantly. Anyway. One of the things I loved was rescuing old comicbooks from flea market and yard sale vendors that had little respect for what was in their care. I recently was able to rescue Avengers #159. It has Graviton and a slew of my favorite Avengers.

Oh, and in case you forget it, Graviton reminds you over and over that he is Master of Gravity, one of the fundamentals forces. The majority of Avengers, Iron Man, Scarlet Witch, Vison, Captain America, and the Beast have fallen. Back at the Mansion the Black Panther arrives and heads to save them, Thor bumps into him and we have a party. Poor Jarvis wishes he could help.

In the end, Jarvis does save the day after deciding to follow along. This is just good old fashion Avengers adventure at its finest. The comic has changed a great deal, and I currently do not read any Marvel, so that should tell you what I think of the company right now. I still love the characters. They are some of the best in the industry, even if they are mistreated and abused at present.

CBG

THE CORPS

2009-04-05T20:57:00.000-07:00

This is just an awesome image. Really cool and has a great grouping of Green Lanterns. Enjoy!

CBG

Oracle: The Cure, Thoughts

2009-03-31T18:53:00.001-07:00

I did manage to collect enough pennies and purchase some books. I received my first issue of ORACLE: THE CURE. I am really missing Birds of Prey (BoP). I realize it had lost many steps after the wonderful Gail Simone left to write the Amazonian Princess. I had hoped Tony Bedard would get the job long term, but the end was already in the works I suspect. So how was the first issue of Oracle?

I remember why I like Barbara Gordon. Beside being a beautiful red head, she is a character that was dealt an awful blow, yet in the hands of Chuck Dixon became the awesome coordinator of Agents to deal justice in the DCU. She is both intelligent and she can handle herself in a fight. All while being limited in certain mobility because of the injury from the Joker that took away the use of her legs.

While checking on Blogs I like, the Nerdy Bird (Another lovely Red Head by the way), wrote an outstanding post about Barbara Gordon and the possibility of her being cured. It also was a nice write up on just what Barbara means to many as a character. I can not do that issue justice, so I send you here for her excellent words; Has Boobs Reads Comics.

She did make me pause to think about why I like this character. Sometimes I don't like her. When she becomes Batman with breasts I dislike her. Too many writers want her to become a female version of the obsessive patriarch of the Bat Family. Sometimes it might be interesting, but when she is best I think is when she is thinking of alternative methods and ways to stop the baddies. The chair became an obstacle that she had surpassed. When she is written as doing that on a worldwide level it rocks.

So should she be cured? Should she become Batgirl again? Not really. One factor is that she has outgrown the Batgirl identity. Oracle is well above the young woman that began those many years ago. The walking again is iffy to me. It might be interesting, but what would be gained? More than likely the Calculator's daughter Wendy will be cured. Like the Brianiac virus back when the Huntress had first joined the BoP, it is a Red Herring to stir the fans into frenzy. Take note, at least two Bloggers have written that you know for sure if you are reading this post. I would rather see a new Birds of Prey type book, or bring Oracle back with Misfit and run with the Black Alice sibling story.

Whatever happens, I will probably be following. I like her as a character. I do miss the dynamic between her and Dinah though.

CBG

Hal's Final Ring

2009-03-20T19:32:00.000-07:00

When reading Green Lantern Spotlight I saw the poll that was listed asking what the color of Hal's next ring would be? The color of White, which is really not a color if I remember my Home EC Class correctly. It made me take pause. When the Darkest Night descends and since we have the Roy G. Biv color theme, it would seem that White might be of importance.

I seem to remember that in the Light Spectrum and all that gobbledygook of colors that White negates Black. How will the Black Lanterns be defeated? I am beginning to think by one man empowered by one White Ring. That his White Light will wash away the darkness. It has a poetic sense to it.

I am probably just over thinking. It would be an awesome visual though. Hal in a White themed uniform and with the purest of the lights in the night sky. I can see it right now. I am looking forward to this newest stage to the Green Lantern Saga.

CGB

Be Back Soon!

2009-03-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

The evil sinus illness had me walloped and disassembled. I am on the mend and just dry coughing. I have seen two Movies, one being that small film called WATCHMAN and the AWESOME animated film of WONDER WOMAN. I hope to write my thoughts of both soon, but it is CHUCK night on TV and if I can gain control of the TV maybe even be able to check out Castle on ABC.

I also made it to the Comic Book Shop and have some Buffy love to give. I am in a rather mellow mood and have discovered Hulu has many of my favorite old and new shows on it so I spend some time watching Hulu and just geeking out on Sci-Fi and Drama goodness. Keep watching this space. I will be up and running again soon.

CBG

A bit better, but still feel bad

2009-02-24T21:39:00.000-08:00

I am hoping to be able to do some Blogging soon. I also hope to get to the shop soon as well. I think the WATCHMEN movie will be really good. I wonder if I should reread the Trade before the 6th of March? What do you all think?

CBG

Delayed by Personal Kryptonie

2009-02-17T11:18:00.001-08:00

I am dealing with some personal health issues of the moment. Nothing serious, just aggravating and bad feeling. I am glad some of you like the look at Nightwatch. Did you know Black Cat had a connection to that story? It is indirect, but something that was being built that never got used by Marvel. It all revolved around the same pharmaceutical company that Nightwatch was tied to in his story. Read that Limited series last night. I will try and do a look at it next.

CBG

Nightwatch: a 12 issue series overlook

2009-02-13T11:59:00.000-08:00

Who is Nightwatch? That is a question many current comic book collectors of a younger age ask when they run across the obscure Marvel character in back issue bins, that is if they even see an issue in back issue bins. Nightwatch is a series that ran for 12 issues and starred an African American character that came from the pages of WEB OF SPIDER-MAN #100. The origin of Nightwatch can be found there in part. The true origin is shrouded in time travel and nannite technology.

The cover here is gold looking but in reality it is a foil cover background that has a silver hue to it. Yes, this book came out back in the days of laser prism holo-foil covers. It also was back when every non-mutant character tied to the X-Men had to have the required Spider-Man appearance and lecture from Spidey as to how to be a hero and that he would be watching. So Peter Parker is one of the hostages at the prison in the opening scenes. The prison will be returned to at a later date. One plus is that this book runs like a TV show in respects to story. It knows it is only running for twelve issues and it tells the story in a way that makes for an exciting read.

Kevin Trench is Nightwatch. He is a man who died as he received his costume and powers. He said goodbye to the love of his life and then is attacked by invisible assailants after a strange energy mass appears before him. He is being battered as another energy mass appears and the Nightwatch costume appears being worn by a man who saves Kevin Trench. That man behind the mask who is fatally wounded is none other than, Kevin Trench. Kevin Trench watches himself die. So right from the start our hero is under a ticking clock to his own death.

It all revolves around the costume. Let us get the obvious out of the way, yes, it resembles SPAWN. Whether by design or accident I do not know. What is clear is that the suit is an advanced nannite construct that uses the body’s adrenaline to enhance strength, speed and healing. The wearer is rendered tired after prolonged use. Kevin Trench spent years after the incident at the airport where he was attacked and watched the plane the love of his life was on explode. She got better, which is my joking way of saying that the layers of mysteries are legion in this title. The cape of the suit is adaptable as is the suit. It literally devours materials from the same research and nannites as it. This enhances the suit and as the series concludes we learn the full measure of the Nightwatch costume’s transformative capabilities.

Venom makes a short appearance and is another of the obligatory character appearances required during that time. Of more interest is the guest appearance of Cardiac. He is an anti-hero from the pages of Spider-Man that focuses on destroying those that deal in corrupt medical dealings. He is another educated African American character from that time period. His beta powered body is connected to the Nightwatch research and he is Kevin Trench’s old roommate. I liked that he was in the mix. He was a character I liked a great deal when he would cross paths with Spider-Man.

In the end we get a fast paced ride that will introduce the final evolution of the Nightwatch suit, Warbringer. The answer as to who that is comes in the final issues and plays a key part in the plot. The story has corporate and governmental cabals all wanting there agendas met. There is a Satellite that is on a collision course with Manhattan. The series has a Time Bomb. It just is a neat story of one man’s curse at gaining incredible abilities and the responsibility he takes upon himself.

Some would say this was a weak series. I would say to each their own. I like the character. I like this series. Maybe it is something you can hunt for and have fun in seeking a long lost title. Let me know if this is something you would like more of and I will dig back into my odd collection. I always love comments.

CBG

Sneak Peek

2009-02-11T09:18:00.001-08:00

I mentioned I was planning on discussing a low level character from the past. Well, I have read the series and gathered the cover images. I really hate that I have no scanner right now. I decided to put a book on the Net that I doubt there is really any comprehensive look involving the character. It is one of the 1990's Spider-man tangent characters. He also was an example of an African American hero that as I think about it was never really looked at during the time. There is a great deal of racial diversity in this book. There is also some temporal mechanics at play that makes it an interesting and frustrating book. This is just a sneak peek on what is to come. So take a gander at the series that will be soon adorning the Blog.

=============================================

CBG

Help Rich Out!!!!!

2009-02-05T08:26:00.000-08:00

Do You Twitter? I do not, but I do wish to help out someone who is in a Twitter Challenge. Both involved are in the Ghost's past. Since I can hold a grudge, with a site and not the friend as much, I have decided to delay the start of D-List Comic Series to make a plea to help Rich over at Comic By Comic to win this Twitter Challenge. Help him out please. Follow him and then I can watch him gloat as the Ghost reaches beyond the ether to exact some semblance of geeky vengeance.

Yes it is very petty, but you know what, I am a Ghost now so that is that. Anyway, I just want to let them both know I am still around. So go Follow Rich and let the heavens know what it means when Geeks unite to smite other Geeks.

CBG

A Really Neat Comparing of the Greek Gods in terms of our current day Geek Gods

2009-01-30T10:57:00.001-08:00

So have you ever wondered who the Geek Gods are? Well wonder no more and check out this interesting Blog Post.

GEEK GODS

CBG

Fallen Angel Ends ?!?

2009-01-26T10:59:00.000-08:00

So it has concluded, the story wraps up. Now before you are alarmed, it appears this is just the ending of the long form issue stories of Lilandra. There will be a new series of minis I would suppose from IDW. Still, I have mixed feelings right now. I remember as a comic book reviewer doing what I could to support and talk up what was a rare gem at DC Comics to begin with way back when. I had to move heaven and earth to get copies because stores just didn't carry it. I eventually ordered some early issues from tfaw.com so I could have the run in its entirety.

DC wussed out and I thought I would have seen the end to this compelling story of an Angel cast out from the Heavens because she dared exercise free will. I was so happy when The IDW stories started and we got the origin of how Lee was cast out and why she was the way she was in the tales. It became an even more mature read as the constraints fell away and I accepted the cussing because it fit the genre. I have thoroughly enjoyed the story of the Fallen Angel.

I can't help but be relieved a bit that it ends. Honestly it was a book I was wondering how I could afford. Now I at least can be at peace not buying it and have a complete story for how Lee's life turned out. The next arc will begin and be a new status for her. So I am at peace with this ending. I will write more about this series later.

CBG

Its A New Day!

2009-01-20T13:03:00.001-08:00

I stated to family in 2004 upon listening to President Obama speak at the Democratic National Convention that he would be our first African American President. I am so proud to be a citizen of America today after feeling so ashamed of those who have been in power. I hope the rule of law will return and our Constitution once again be the guiding force of my Country. May the Creator protect President Obama and help him bring mercy and compassion to the world.

CBG

Good Reading: "The Stepsister Scheme"

2009-01-15T08:49:00.000-08:00

The Stepsister Scheme

By Jim C. Hines

I saw this book via a new follower, whom I think came here via Brainfreeze's Blog, and I went via that person's Blog and found another Blog which had this book's cover on it. How is that for an awesome run on sentence? This is a wonderful book. I started reading on Monday Night and finished it Wednesday Night, and I was just casually reading. I guess to imply that I devoured it because it was good, but I didn't totally give up sleep like I have been known to do.

The book is what occurred after the phrase "Happily Ever After....." in the old Fairy Tales. The real stories behind the oft told stories are more along the lines of the Grimm Fairy Tales than the sanitized Disney version most of us grew up on. I also had a thought about "Women in Refrigerators" in regards to Sleeping Beauty once the whole story was implied. Still debating just whether that was a needed push beyond the already hard stuff she encountered because of the Fairy "blessings" and the hard edge she maintains.

Danielle is the main character. You know her as Cinderella. Her Stepsisters are up to no good and have made an alliance with another Fairy Tale evil that is pretty powerful. Oh, did I mention that they kidnap her Prince? Yep, she has to go and find her husband before the plan that is obscure for so long takes place. She has help. See Sleeping Beauty, Talia, is a real tough woman. The Grace blessing has allowed her to become a perfect fighter and weapons expert. She sees these skills as a dance so she is able to kick much behind as she aids the Prince's mother Queen Beatrice. Her back story is the most tragic.

Snow White is the other help Danielle has as she begins her quest. I really love Snow. Slutty is the word that kinda fits, but it is an innocent slutty. This is really hard to explain. You really have to read the book to appreciate the humorous remarks that she says. In fact sometimes it is necessary to reread to get the full funny effect of her teasing. She says a great many things to get under Talia's skin. Her nature hides her strength of magic and wait until you hear the twist on the seven dwarves. This was very creative and unique.

I loved this book and will be eagerly looking for the next book involving the three Princesses that is to come out in October 2009. It will spin around the Little Mermaid Tale. A Fish Tale, sorry I just had to do it.

CBG

(I know this is not a comic, but it is part of my geekiness, so deal.)

Super Powers

2009-01-09T09:39:00.000-08:00

A friend sent me this YouTube vid and I have learned how to make the embed look cool. I know the Comic Book Ghost is sometimes technologically challenged, so just bear with it, K? Anyhow, this short film has a funny setup of a couple trying to spice up their marriage and in the end they help out someone in need. Really funny and really cool. I hope you enjoy it.

CBG

Lift Me Up

2009-01-06T12:48:00.000-08:00

Memories

2009-01-06T12:09:00.000-08:00

For some reason I traveled into the past last night. In my time of Internet life, I have been many things. I started as a simple emailer and then I skulked around Usenet. Email was the main thing for a bit. Being poor I had to get by on just dialing up once a day and if I wanted to get on the Internet I used a Library computer. Somewhere along the way I became a comic book reviewer and then a columnist. I had to email my reviews and stuff for a long while. Then I got a bit fed up and I was allowed to have access to upload my stuff once I was taught how. Low and behold after a bit I was being sent free comics and Black & White advance copies. It was nice and cool.

I then found Blogger and decided to take my hobby love into my own hands. I started doing my own comic book stuff and I was also talking about life. All the while I was toying with a Blog that would be devoted to just comics and one devoted to just stuff I created for my profession to share with others in my place to help as I was helped through Magazines. That is when I learned I lived in a life that was not for me I guess. For all my smarts I made stupid mistakes. One being the idea that we are all equal under the Creator of the Universe and that those who walk in Light live by the same codes of conduct. I never saw the ax fall into my back until I was bleeding out.

In terms we can understand here, some force beyond me decided to protect me and use me. I struggled and my very being was torn asunder. Every time I felt like I had beaten back the Darkness it came back harder and tried to swallow me. The force of Darkness was no match for the Protector's Light, but each attack weakened me. I began to sense the need to follow my Creator's whispers and retreat. I felt like I had lost something precious, but it also freed me somehow.

The trouble with freedom is that you have to stand alone and walk alone at times. In this wilderness the weakness that had become my life exploded. I am so glad my Creator never gave up or left me, even as I lost faith in the abilities that were gifts from them. People had been sent to me. They were not with me in a physical sense, yet the way they were beside me was enough to bind me to the solid ground while all other ground sank into Darkness. Even in my "defeat" by those that were constantly attacking, I was not left alone. I see that I was in the middle of a struggle between people. The focus of their personal agendas and hatred centered on me and I am assured that nothing less than my total destruction awaited me.

I know this sounds strange, but I understand now clearly why the ancient writers decided to cloak their words in term that seemed to be a code. I see how a young man was told by his mentor to be aware of the people the young man served. For while he poured himself out to ensure the Creator's Light shone upon them, there were those intent on controlling the Light for their own selfish reasons. It is in learning this I have lost my Faith, not in the Creator, but in myself and the compassion of Humanity.

Life is swirling around me now. I know mentally what I must do to break free and live, but I have no desire to do so. I am drowning some days. I drown in a sea of darkness and despair. My own inner spark works some days to keep me afloat. Some days it is the actions of others, Angels of a nature most unconventional that hold my form and keep me from sinking. Seeing my past brought great sadness, A sense of great loss.

I still have anger. I wish I did not. I know the Creator asks me not to hate them. It is so hard not to hate them. I feel betrayed. I feel stupid. I feel blindsided. I feel empty and alone. I told you when things get bleak I read Alpha Flight. I guess because up to almost the end of the run I feel like them. I feel tossed and then betrayed by those I never did anything to but try and serve. I relate to that story. I get the ideal of fighting to protect those that even while I stand in the gap are trying to kill me behind my back. Yet I stood there. What did I earn? I know the answer, in my heart. The thing is you can't buy medicine or food or even rent a DVD on that payment.

Do you realize that in the make up of Alpha Flight one can find the emotions of a person? There are all kinds of a person's aspect in each member and their personality make up. When those parts fuse together into a functioning team, no force ever defeated them. Every now and again they were bloodied and knocked down, but they dug down deep and they found that inner fire and the Light defeated the Darkness. I am digging........

CBG

Hmmmmm, So I guess I am the only Heather Fan?

2009-01-01T12:36:00.000-08:00

So really this is just an excuse to place another image with Heather Hudson on it on the Blog. I really can say it shocked me a bit there was not even a slight nod about her in the comments. Maybe it is just I forgot what getting comments was like. I know a few of you know who the Ghost was before the death that occurred at that Blog because of people who would be fine additions to Omega Flight. Anyway. I finished reading the Second Volume today. I have a story trying to get out of my head. I just now need to buckle down and write. I think I can do this. Take the Flight and write my own adventures. I know these characters. New online friends say I can write when I write nice little stories for them. So I just need to take the plunge and not chat online. Yeah, you guessed correctly. If I write a new chapter for Alpha Flight I will have only one person in the role of team leader. Heather Hudson will be rightly returned to her position as the Matriarch of this dysfunctional team. Mac will have a new and highly placed job, and be on a team as well. Confused? If you read the second volume then you know how that can be possible. I figure using the Canadian super team frees me from Marvel continuity of late. I can even use some easy comicy gimmick to extricate the heroes to the South from the stupidity I see and use them as guest stars. So look for the start of this in 2009. I will create a sister Blog that is part of the Comic Book Ghost world. Happy New Year!

CBG

Heather Hudson

2008-12-29T19:35:00.000-08:00

Heather McNeil Hudson is one of the best female superheroes ever created. Newer readers will not even realize the character exist or think of her as anything special. For me it is very different. I began on a diet of Heather as the almost leader of ALPHA FLIGHT to full fledged commander during an alien invasion of Canada. She has always been one of the plain looking women for most of her character runs. Early own she was downright upstaged in the looks department by Aurora, Snowbird, and Elizabeth Twoyoungman. So just who is Heather Hudson?

We first see her as the supportive wife of Canada's version of Captain America, Guardian, James "Mac" McDonald Hudson. When an alert is given for trouble way up North in the Canadian wilds, it is Heather that uses Mac's computer and discs to summon him aid in the form of the disbanded Alpha Flight. So in a way she is the person that brought the original members together to handle threats against her nation. It was a good thing she did all that as Guardian faced one of the Great Beasts, Tundra.

As the back up stories told us about each member and their origins we learn that Mac was working for a company that was going to weaponize his work. He bumps into the Secretary Heather McNeil and learns she quit her job because of what they did to him. Later after he steals and disables his work it is Heather who takes him to a family friend that arranges for Hudson to become a government agent under the Canadian flag and thus created the way for Department H and Alpha Flight.

From there Heather ends up married to Hudson and the two discover Wolverine on their Honeymoon. It is Heather left alone with the wounded and primal Logan that soothes and tames the savage mutant. Yes, she was the first red head to capture his heart. So Jean Grey, sorry, but the mousy girl was there first. Later we would learn that knowing he could never really love Heather lead him to make his decision to leave and join the X-Men.

Den mother was the next role as she made sure people were fed and taken care of when they met in the small Hudson Apartment. Soon though the man ruined by Hudson leaving the company that he worked for wanted revenge. It lead Heather and Mac into a trap in New York that was a battle to test the Guardian battle suit to its limits. Damaged, the suit was overheating and Mac was trying to disconnect all the power leads when Heather walked in on him. Whether out of time, distracted by Heather, or pulling so stunt to ensure her safety, James Hudson exploded in so much burnt ash, presumed Dead.

It wasn't long before the widow of James Hudson found herself named leader of Alpha Flight. Like Northstar liked to suggest, it was probably meant to be symbolic in nature. The thing is that Heather never got that memo and too k the task seriously. She lead admirably, but soon realized a mere human woman among the likes of goddesses and mutants facing threats similar and tougher was in danger and would lose the respect of her team. Thanks to Madison Jefferies and Roger Boches, the Guardian suit was rebuilt and Heather took the name James had once used early on, Vindicator. She sought out Wolverine to train her and really did a great deal of on the job learning. Once she had the power, Heather Hudson grew into the role and surpassed her husband in every way. This woman lead and held together one of the quirkiest and strangest assemblies of heroes ever conceived. She often realized Alpha spent as much time fighting each other as they did menaces.

What really has always struck me is that for the majority of the book no artist ever felt the need to tramp her up. She had those gigantic glasses and really was kinda frumpy dressing the few times she was out of the battle suit. It actually makes her more attractive I think. There was a great deal of focus on the will and spirit of the woman and the leader as on her curves. Yet, she had some very real weaknesses. Having her dead husband constantly return from the dead and die. Holding a team together through betrayals and government manipulations. Falling for and becoming engaged to Madison Jefferies only to have him go back to Diamond Lil who had a hand in her husband's first death. She later would help Lil through her breast cancer scare. The smallest Alphan, Puck was always in love with her. Still, this never diminished the fact that she was the toughest in the Flight and never asked her team to face something she was not willing to face.

She will always be one of my favorite characters. Since the first volume of Alpha Flight has ended no one has ever really gotten that she is the leader, they always want Mac back. That is sad, because anyone who has read the entire run can see Alpha Flight is as much a team book as it is a solo series for the one and only Guardian to me, Heather Hudson.

CBG

Whenever things seem bleak.....I turn to the Flight.

2008-12-28T19:49:00.001-08:00

I have never really understood why, but reading my run of the first volume of ALPHA FLIGHT just feels good. I love this super team. They were always a varied and eclectic groups of heroes. I own the entire run of that first volume. I only ever bought one issue brand new. Issue #106, and I bet some of you know the issue I speak of. The Jim Lee work is the only ones I purchased at any great expense. I bought the rest over about a twenty year period. My Mom bought me my first two issues at the first ever "Just A Dollar" store in our area. I got three comics for one dollar and two of those were Issue #23 and Issue #98 of Alpha Flight. From that day on it was a yard sale and flea market hunt with some three for a buck collections thrown in. It all ended in 2007 at HeroesCon when I at last found Issue #74 and paid the fifty cents it cost. So now it is one of those old comforts I reread from start to finish and just enjoy. It really is better than anything Marvel is publishing currently in my opinion. I will have a more detailed look at the Flight soon.

CBG

P.S. I really like Heather Hudson the best, but there are not many good online pics I have found yet.

The end of buying new Marvel?

2008-12-10T07:19:00.001-08:00

Well the time has come for some hard decisions. Finances are just too tight and dwindling in this economy. I read only one Marvel comic currently. That book is NOVA. I have enjoyed the book, yet it is at the top of the cut list. Why? Well why read a book that will be drawn into a Universe I have come not to care about anymore?

As I usually do when life sucks I turn to my older comics to read and I guess try to feel better. So I am right now reading ALPHA FLIGHT. It is nice to read an entire run of a book and to remember a time when Marvel was a company that I could find heroism and enjoyment. Over the years I have grown as a reader. I branched out and tried other things, but the core of my comic love was always founded in Marvel Comics.

I remember the gift of comics I received when a cousin gave me those her son was finished reading. There was DC and Marvel comics there, but it was the MARVEL TWO IN ONE starring the Thing and Iron Fist that drew me in as a child. I have loved the Thing as a character ever since. The door was opened to Iron Man and then the best of all Spider-Man of whom I watched on TV.

From that first taste I was hooked. I lived in an area without a comic shop in the area. I had to beg from the occasional spinner racks and then get them at yard sales and flea markets. It was a different type of collecting. I have noticed that it does make a difference now in my collecting habits. I was never really about the creators and stuff. It was the stories and finding number runs and characters I liked.

My collection grew and there was the time when I would buy a DC book when they looked interesting or had Green Lantern on the cover, but Marvel ruled. When in High School our local grocery started selling comics in the newstand section. I discovered THE NEW WARRIORS and was able to read THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN yet again. IRON MAN and AVENGERS came to me in all the glory of a rising comic industry. I went to college and found a shop and have been steady in my collecting ever since. I was still a loyal Marvel only reader. I even passed up the biggest speculating possibility of that day.

THE DEATH OF SUPERMAN came out while I was in college. I waited in a stupid line for my weekly books as people from hundreds of miles away tried to find a copy. I was just annoyed. I wanted my Marvel comics for the week.

There came a day when I started adding different comics to my reading. I branched out into different companies. I still scoured the flea markets and back issue boxes for many old Marvels. I have the entire run of ALPHA FLIGHT and I only purchased one of those issues new. It was the issue where Northstar comes out. All the rest were bought at flea markets our cheap sale boxes. Well, the Jim Lee first artwork ones cost a bit more, but still, I count it a neat feat.

I do not like spending a great deal on my books. I see the decision of Marvel to increase the price of their product and not improve quality as a bad thing. Now for me quality is the basic writing partially. Still, to do what podcast and articles I read have said and increase price while only giving about eight pages of new content is suspect. Why pay $3.99 for a reprint with a bit of extra when the original probably is less in a shop's back issue box? I purchase some $3.99 books, not many. They are IDW books and they have in house ads and harder stock covers and the glossy paper that holds up better over the years. Marvel is still giving the old 22 page story count and the other ten doesn't even include a letters page anymore. It is coming down to a matter of content and Marvel may lose as even the die hard sheep lose jobs and income.

They made it easy at Marvel for us to leave. I stayed through the banckrupcy. I bought books and I am one of those die hards that kept the numbers up back then. I cared about the characters and I loved the stories and face it, I bought almost every 2099 book in the Marvel line. I was a bit miffed when the man that was suppose to be one of us, a comic geek, said that if I didn't like the new Marvel I could go and read the old issues. OK Joe Quesada, I did. Slowly I have divested myself from buying new Marvel comics. I even look at the trades and think, maybe, then I see a cheaper DC book and know I probably will like that trade more, so you can guess where my money goes.

The conspiracy theorist in me thinks Marvel wants the industry to fold in publishing tangible comics and turn to digital only. That would be silly though, but it is as valid as the crap they write. Am I bitter? Maybe. I miss the continuing stories of my favorite characters. I am enjoying learning a freat deal about DC characters.

So soon I may drop the last Marvel title I am reading. I wonder if I am the only one? Well I know I am not. Check this out; Comic Overloadhas a dropping of both companies. This could be the start of a sad time for our beloved industry.

So can I live without new Marvel comics? I think so. Can I live without any comics at all? Let us not go there. I do not want to find that out.

CBG

So The Reason Geek Gets Has Dwindled

2008-12-03T20:34:00.000-08:00

Much like the rest of America I find the economy impacting my comic book addiction. I passed up going to the shop after Thanksgiving and a sale that had 5 for $1 comics. I know, I am an idiot. Yet, I looked at the wallet and the knowing of a $50 bottle of meds coming up and realized I was not wise to go and face temptation. I have some cash now and soon will get another round and again think on what is a must read. I have to make cuts and I have to be harsh I think.

I might soon have to window shop. Marvel is going to make it easy and so will DC if they blindly follow Marvel's lead. $3.99 is too much. I purchase Fallen Angel from IDW and have purchased other limited series from IDW. I also purchase Echo ($3.50). Each of these has their higher quality covers and paper as well as in house ads. I have one Marvel title and for sure will cancel if it goes to $3.99. The title is Nova.

$3.99 is too much to pay for 22 pages of story. Not to mention 22 pages of the drivel and low quality Marvel is to me personally currently. DC has fared better and I have always admired the tiered pricing from them. They have fewer titles on the cut list because they are cancelling books I read. So they in some ways are ahead of the game. I will most likely cut Nova. With it going I will have stopped purchasing Marvel Comics consistently since being able to in 1990. Back then all I purchased was Marvel. How times have changed.

I might end up just window shopping. I did switch to trades sometime back on many books. I will buy Secret Six that way. I have been buying Blue Beetle and Green Lantern Corps that way as well. Many may have to be bought that way. One funny and real clear reason I avoided that sale was the fact my comic book shop places issues of current titles from the past six to eight months in those $1 boxes that were on sale. I would have found much to buy. I do hope that soon my fortunes will turn around and I can be back buying comics again. For now I am reading my run of Alpha Flight. Never bought an issue new except one, issue #106, the one where Northstar comes out. So you might get a bit of Alpha musings soon. I could just do an in depth look at the old Nightwatch limited series from Marvel. Hey, Joey Q said if I didn't like the crap he was putting out I could read back issues as an old time fan, so I am reading back when continuity meant something and Marvel was the House of Ideas.

CBG

Doctor Strange Master of the Mystic Arts #61 - 63

2008-11-25T06:10:00.000-08:00

The Ghost seriously apologizes for the lack of postings lately. My haunting abilities have been seriously hampered by the world of the living. Way back in September I made an interesting find at my local shop's $1 boxes. Three issues of Doctor Strange back when Marvel was not bound by the corporate restraints of the Trade or lack of continuity. I promised a treat of a post and here it is. These issues are the final three parts to a story that was the end of Dracula in the Marvel Universe. If you don't know that at one point Dracula was a staple in the MU and he was ultimately defeated, then boo hoo if you feel I spoiled something you never would have read.

I confess that I have very few Doctor Strange comics in my collection. Any issues I have purchased on purpose have been less than one buck or included in a 3 for 1 deal and I wanted something else that was part of the combo. Here I was drawn to issue #60 when looking through the box by the lovely form of Scarlet Witch. Before I could really read, I confess to having two little boy crushes. One was Jamie Somers, the Bionic Woman and the other was the Scarlet Witch. I had these Marvel matching game cards and she was on there. I had never even read or seen a comic with her in it, by I was in love. Ever since I have had a fondness for Wanda. So I was made to pause and see what this issue was all about.

Seems the enigmatic book known as the Darkhold was once again loose in the Marvel Universe. This is a magic book that goes all the way back to the lost City of Atlantis. It is pure EVIL and cannot be destroyed. It can corrupt the soul of any who use it, so good people are in danger when around it. It also can aid Dracula to become the complete ruler of Earth. The cult that follows and worships the Darkhold are aiding the Lord of Vampires and of course Dr.Strange is standing in their way. The Darkhold is soon to be held secure the Avenger's Mansion with Scarlet Witch and Captain Marvel helping protect it. Captain Marvel being Monica and not the one who died of Cancer only to recently be brought back in a horrible attempt to be "cool" and edgy.

My decision to buy the book came with the two that followed. The next two issues and the end of the story. It was like divine destiny that I should buy these books. When being a cheap and avid hunter of back issues at low prices the best thing that can happen is to have the issue that resolves a story. Here I had it and loads of Marvel guest appearances included as well. The following issues contained the Doctor's man servant Wong and he actually does more than answer the door in the tale. Hannibal King is present along with Blade. It is a battle that highlights all characters and shows some magical might as the Doctor battles Dracula on the Astral landscape inside the Darkhold. Really awesome conflict and a sacrifice of an infected Vampire.

Doctor Strange has one last trick up his sleeve and the character sees the sunrise for the first time in years. This is what Marvel used to excel at in storytelling. We had tension and conflict that is made of stern material. Yet, we end on the high and happy note of good squashing evil and all pausing to relish a moment of a big victory in the never ending battle.

So I am at last keeping my promise of telling a tale of my excellent find in the back issue box. A story of mystical forces and horrific beings. It also had Scarlet Witch goodness. If you read this far, then I hope you enjoy this rambling.

CBG

Almost back

2008-11-18T09:13:00.001-08:00

I am so close to being back it is scary. I am upset because Blue Beetle is being canceled. Tragedy. just terrible. I am sad. So as I am working to get back enjoy this cute Secret Six picture. Hmmm, maybe Blue Beetle can become a rolling group of mini series stories.

CBG

Don't forget me

2008-11-03T05:56:00.000-08:00

Life has felt like a Jungle adventure the last few weeks. I have gotten some awesome books and read some cool stuff, but haven't had the Blogging feel because of some stuff. I am working on it and I will be up an running soon. Don't forget me as I work through the jungle and get back to my regular crazy comic book love.

CBG

Geek Gets 10/01/08

2008-10-01T21:11:00.000-07:00

A very light week for new Gets this week as only three things I am collecting came out. In honor of one of these Gets we will have a Blue text throughout. I did find some interesting things in the $1 boxes. But they will come later. Yes, I still have that old Marvel post to put up that also came from the $1 boxes as well.

On to the discussion of what I did get today. The first I will discuss will be Justice League of America #25. It is a double sized issue that comes in at $3.99. I have read some hesitation and dissatisfaction with this title, but I like it and really think we are seeing a turn with this very issue. It has finally wrapped up the tedious stuff that was placed here from One Year Later. Vixen is a character I first came to know in Birds of Prey. Otherwise she is very new to me. Here we see her take a central role and matching wits with the African version of the Trickster god, Anansi.

The funniest thing about the issue might go over the heads of many casual comic book readers. Anasi keeps telling Vixen that this is his story, that he owns all the stories. Now one might take this as just a bit of plot development and foreshadowing. What was funny was Anasi lecturing Vixen about not letting a story develop. The way other heroes are taken out simply by Anasi changing the story was unusual and intriguing. Seeing Red Arrow shoot Black Canary in the back and her death cry shatter his eardrums was shocking. Are they dead? Probably not, Anasi said that they might come back if he decides to tell the story to have them do so.

Really think that if McDuffie is kept on the title and allowed to write his tales we might see even better from the book. I think he has taken full ownership and cleaned the deck in a respectful way as to what came before. Will enjoy the price dropping back to regular cost next month though.

Next we have what was the best payoff I have read in a good while. My cover is not the same as the one I found at the DC website. (Need to either get my scanner working or a new one.) Blue Beetle End Game is the fourth collection of the current Blue Beetle title. It collects Blue Beetle Issues #20 - 26. Issue #20 is the Sinestro Corps War crossover and #26 is the all Spanish issue. What come in the middle is the big payoff. We see a hero take control and understand that Jamie has been studying the two men that came before and had learned from them. His battle with the Reach comes to a violent conclusion.

Blue Beetle I find is best read as a Trade. I collected the first story arc in monthly fashion. Then I got the next part in Trade format. I liked reading the complete tale all at once. It works better this way for me. Here we watched all the supporting characters play a part in the final confrontation. We also see the connections Jamie has made in the super hero community come to his aid. Guy Gardner has an awesome scene with Jamie's little sis. Traci 13 is back numerous times. Paco and Brenda have an encounter involving lips. Just an awesome bringing together of all the story points.

The last thing I got was Witchblade #121. I am here for the awesome story, but each month the art is just a feast for the eyes. This is where I get my grown up stories. Give me heroics in my classic character universes. I will have my supernatural crime drama here. What also is neat is how the history of the creature known as a Golem is laid out at the end of the book. No, I do not feel that is a spoiler. If a cop gets called to a Jewish neighborhood in a supernatural book, Golem is gonna cross your mind. Well worth the price of admission and a book I am still liking because of the way Ron Marz is telling the story.

Well, I guess that is it for now. Better get to haunting the castle.

Comic Book Ghost

Geek Gets 9/24/08

2008-09-24T18:50:00.000-07:00

OK, so this was a small two weeks. But that is not a bad thing when one of the books was a $3.50 cost. It was a small but satisfying week of comics for this reader. A variety of reads were present as well. Seems to be a Girl Power theme going on with these books. There is a bit of telling of an old Marvel story that has been placed on hold. Wanted to have it up before now, but things have held it up. For now just enjoy reading about the buys the Comic Book Ghost absconded with today.

The best read was a hard decision with this group. Really all had their strong points, BUT, if forced to pick I would say Birds of Prey #122 was the one I enjoyed the most. Tony Bedard has always been a writer that I really liked and here he just gives a great story that is a build up to a long waited for one on one fight in the DCU. In case you are clueless the Birds have been restructuring. Manhunter has been present and here we have a cool cameo by Zatanna. Kate got her head scrambled pretty bad when the Birds came to roost in Platinum Flats. So she is part of the team but not I guess since she commutes.

Infinity is a character that I am not sure if she is new or some obscure character that is being used now. Either way, she is so cool. We get a Misfit impressing Oracle and a big look at the newest player in the town, Joker. That is correct. He is in the town and now on a collision course with the woman he crippled. I can say no more but it really did make me think of the now gone CrossGen book The Negation. Bedard rocked the intensity there and has carried into this comic. The last few pages are the best set up I have seen in a long while.

Wildstorm has been running a little gem that might have slipped under many people's radar screens. Casey Blue Beyond Tomorrow #5 is the next to last issue of the series that started around the time of the Convention Season. It is the basic invasion scenario, well, except the element of time travel and an infection that creates hybrids is involved. Casey is the typical high school student who is now a secret weapon against these seeded agents from the future to destroy mankind. She is just really learning about her abilities and how they work. A nice woman from the future is now training and explaining things to her. Her family doesn't know and she is settling into her new duality.

Did I mention she can kill with her bare hands? She can take down full grown men with their own weapons and really only look like she was rolling on the ground. Well, this has and is a good read. I can tell you that the last page is absolutely unbelievable. A true hook into the last part of this story. So I guess now you either track them down or ask for the Trade. I like it.

I never read Strangers in Paradise but after hearing a bit of a trade recap on Just Bill: Comic Drawer Box I am interested in getting the trades. Terry Moore has finished that comics work and now is on Issue #6 of Echo. It is a strange bit of fiction about a woman who basically was in the wrong part of the desert at the wrong time. She witnesses what really is a murder of a woman testing an experimental battle suit and then radioactive fallout of the metal rained down upon her.

Julie now has a shiny metal cover over her breast and part of her shoulders. Threaten her and touch it a person gets zapped in a bad way. She is joined by a Park Ranger who it seems was the murdered woman's fiancee. They have had a rough go of it and the first five issues have been collected and should be on sale now. I believe they are calling it Moon Lake. So this is a good story with that soap opera feel. Conspiracies and stuff abound as the tale of Julie rolls on.

The last book is my only Marvel read of the moment and I must say I was not really looking forward to this story as SECRET INVASION had infected Nova. So here I looked at Nova #17 and see Darkhawk included on the cover. I thought he was part of a group of recovering superheroes? So what? Well seems Rich finds Mom And Dad OK and his little Brother stuck at work. Oh, he works at Project: Pegasus the energy research place of the Marvel U.

It was alright. I think I see how when all this is over Earth will have Skrulls living among humans in some way, shape, or form. That will be the next big thing about the ever stupid conflagration that is Marvel these days. They did a good story despite the cross seeding of the latest gimmick massive event. I big return is present and the Worldmind is still around it appears. So that is about it though for Nova.

Really all there was for me. Did grab a copy of Matt Fraction's The Invincible Iron Man #2 for the awesome price of $1.00. Picked the Brandon Peterson cover as well. So hopefully I can get the special look back at some of the magical Marvel of yesterday. It is a great and important tale of one of fiction's greatest evils and how the Marvel U. was rid of him.

Comic Book Ghost

Geek Gets 9/10/08

2008-09-10T17:39:00.000-07:00

The First and always top of the list read when it comes home is Buffy The Vampire Slayer. This time it is Issue #18. Now, those wanting to complain might think the fan fiction writers on the Net have taken control of the subject matter. In reality it is just the standard layered plot that fans have come to understand. More goes on than just Willow having a friend that she feels guilty letting Kennedy know about. Seems that access comes through means that reading between the lines shows how Kennedy was being intimate with Willow, but really giving this being access. Even this is complicated as we can read the creature has betrayed Willow, to uhm, future Dark Willow, but she also cares. It is this excellent characterization that makes this a top read for me.

The idea of Dawn as a centaur is so funny. Her innocent remark and Xander's mind in the gutter is just good Whedon dialogue. This is Whedon by the way. Who else could do such a good job with the future Slayer Meleka Fray? Well, maybe Christopher Golden. Still this story is lite in many ways, but so much is shown that leads from and to the meat of the story. A great continuing story Time of Your Life is becoming.

Thanks to the awesome podcast About Heroes I was alerted to an awesome chase scene between Catwoman and Batgirl from early in Batgirl's career. It happened in Issue #17 of Batman Confidential. That kicked off a Five Part story The Cat and the Bat. Fabian Nicieza penned this excellent story of a stolen notebook that belongs to Commissioner Gordon. Issue # 21 is the concluding part of the tale. It ends with Batgirl running a gauntlet through Arkham Asylum. Her cotume is in tatters and she faces the Batman family of freaks as the Riddler sits in a control room playing maze guide. The ways and characters she faces is just priceless. The twist at the end is nice as well.

Issue #18 is worth mentioning. After that excellent chase that kicks this adventure off, Catwoman enters a club where masks are OK, but clothes are not. This was a hilarious bit of action. Later on we get the reason Catwoman wanted the notebook. Batman gets involved and Batgirl just has one very long night. The wrap up between Batman and Catwoman is very well done and has a cute bit of dialogue.

Rolling right along we have Witchblade #120. It feels good being able to speak about this title. It started as a clear book of scantily clad women. That is a far cry from the book now. Amazing that a fully clothed painted woman can be hot and sexy in a book dealing with supernatural stuff. This is a female driven story that has more to do with feelings than the powers of the Witchblade. It is these excellent moments that make the battles and outlandish mystical stuff seem so important. The two bearers have an important heart to heart. Sara gets to punch a guys teeth out, literally. What is most amazing is the art.

Stjepan Sejic is the artist and will be for the next few years. That is right, years. His style is a painted look that has softness and and beauty. Dani looks especially awesome in this issue. Her dancing poses are very well done. The idea to frame her movements while dancing was a stroke of genius really. It brings that to life. This is now a book you both enjoy the art AND read for the suspense and story.

Geoff Johns is arguably one of the best ever comic book writers. He has a grasp and respect for continuity even as he basically writes a new history for long time hero Hal Jordan. Green Lantern Issue #34 is the sixth and next to the last part of the Secret Origin story that has been running through the book. It basically shows us the inbetweens of what happened as Abin Sur crashed and died on Earth and Hal being trained by a fellow we know as Sinestro. Little nuggets about the upcoming Blackest Night have been sprinkled throughout the story. It will be neat when all these that have not understood this story have to go back and reread to see how the events to come have been laid bare. It is not obvious, yet somehow things just seem to have an importance that we cannot understand.

Green Lantern was a favorite character growing up and it feels good to reconnect. This has been nostalgic in a way as I read the story. It provided a reminder of the early Hal and why he was so cocky. Moments of what will happen are there and you can just feel sad that each character will have to endure the journey we know they will take. Seeing a young Hal come to terms with his father's death and finding Carol Ferris in the process was a nice scene. Really nice.

OK, I will admit I am totally confused with Gail Simone's story. I will not abandon her though. She has something she is building to and I see how she is trying to incorporate all that has come before with the restart of Wonder Woman. Here is Issue #24 we get to see an Amazon mating ritual of sorts. Nemesis is now an Amazon and free to be Diana's mate. Some weird stuff happens in Hollywood. Even the Gorillas could not provide a break from the confusion. I am unfamiliar with this Queen of Fables. that is adding to my confusion.

Still, it is Simone and it is better than the stuff that caused me to drop Supergirl. I guess Simone would have to write Diana making a deal with the devil to erase her love and all to really stop me reading. I am confused though. My hope is that clears as this story progresses.

Well that ends the report of my Geek Retreat today. Did you pick up anything neat. Tell me about it. What are you reading?

Comic Book Ghost

Hawkgirl by Renae De Liz

2008-09-09T21:42:00.000-07:00

The Ghost is busy haunting some people currently. I thought I would share this snagged bit of art from Comicspace by the awesome Renae De Liz. She rocks the art side of comics. Her work can be seen in the IDW book Rogue Angel The Teller of Tall Tales and other places. One could just check out her Comicspace page for more of her links and work.

The Comic Book Ghost

Friday Trades & Graphic Novels: JLA A League Of One

2008-09-05T15:23:00.000-07:00

What if an Oracle of Old foretold that your friends, those as close to you as family, would die in a battle? What if the only choice was to betray them and fight alone? That is the main theme behind JLA A LEAGUE OF ONE. Wonder Woman has been told of the return of an ancient evil. A dragon of old has been awakened deep within the Earth. Wonder Woman is told that if the Justice League fights as a team they will all die. So Diana makes a decision.

In this Graphic Novel we see the character of Wonder Woman in a variety of ways. She is the devoted spiritual Princess of the Amazons and a powerful member of The Justice League. We see a fun loving Diana who is friend of nymphs and mere maidens. It is also a book that shows the Warrior who will do what she must to protect those she loves and honor her duty to the Earth. It has heart and emotion displayed in the wonderful character of Diana.

The artwork is outstanding. A true vision of painted images. Christopher Moeller is artist and writer of this Graphic Novel. the dragon is beautiful as a horrific evil being that is ruthless and cruel. The backgrounds are just amazing and the balance between both fairy tale type stuff and real world creations are expertly melded. Just a great synthesis of word and pictures.

In the tale Diana, to protect her teammates, must take them down. Her strategic mind is displayed and only Batman catches on to what is happening. One by one she dismantles each member of the Justice League while hurting from having to betray them. The pain is written without ever really saying she is right or wrong. At times we even are lead to question the actions she is taking. That is a sign of great writing.

The battle with the Dragon is what really takes the action up a notch. There are moments the reader my even question if Wonder Woman can accomplish this feat. One might think the League will assemble and we would learn the team is strongest. The way her lasso and the Dragon's flame represent different things is an interesting way to contrast her main strength as a heroine.

A LEAGUE OF ONE is worth the price. it may be able to be found a bit cheaper than the original $14.95 price for the Softcover. A Hardcover was produced as well. Seek it out, it is a great book for any collection.

Comic Book Ghost

Casey Blue Beyond Tomorrow

2008-09-04T12:04:00.000-07:00

So Casey Blue is an enjoyable read. It reminds one of the animated TV movie Invasion USA. It had a male alien raised as a human who finds he is more than it appears and soon is the only hope in an interstellar war. Seems close to what Casey Blue is showing its self to be. Casey is a young girl who is a volleyball player, sister, and loving daughter. Thing is she is starting to be able to do amazing feats of strength and agility. She also is waking up covered in blood, not her own blood either.

The art is typical male fantasy. Casey and all the women defy the bounds of normal physical realities. That becoming a given, the art is really nice and clean. The subtle combing of a stylish animated look for the settings compliments the human figures well. We get a mystery and a sharp sci fi feel to this almost horrific tale. Casey herself lends humanity to the story as she feels the remorse a normal human would at killing and doing so in a manner that defies conventional wisdom. She also describes the feelings of not caring, a primal responds that the ones she killed were just for lack of a better word, deserving of it. They did attack and try and do her harm. Or they posed a threat she perceives yet doesn't quite understand . So or heroine is a figure of a human losing control of herself and trying to hold to her morality and humanity.

This is a series that has been running a bit late. It is four issues into a six issue run. The series is to be the first chapter of the longer story. The problem may be that Casey Blue will start out and we may never have any conclusion to the mystery laid out. Hopefully, that will not be the case and we will get a long run of chapter series to enjoy as the tale is worthy of attention to those with a love of alien invasion tales. The secret invasion genre is not reinventing wheel. It happens many times like this book does. Take young person, have them discover alien heritage, have them stop Earth from being taken over or destroyed, and save home race from the evil aliens that are fighting the good aliens. It is a formula.

What can be fun and enjoyable is the journey of the characters. The little interactions that make up the larger framework of the story. These are what makes or breaks this genre. In Casey we have a heroine that has a family and friends that anchor her and will be of great use to add emotion to a sci fi tale of death and alien invasion. This is a book that might be hard to find. It probably flew under the radar of many readers. Seek it out if you like this type of story. You just might find a gem worth reading.

The Ghost