New Releases: Age of Conan: Belit, Wonder Twins, Superman

Age of Conan: Belit #1 (Marvel)

Tini Howard (w) Kate Niemczyk (a)

The third and final of the Conan books hit the stands this week with a wee bit of a difference. These look like they'll be story arcs about characters that have appeared in Conan's adventures. I wasn't quite sure what to expect and unnecessarily hesitated before ordering this book. I therefore was more than pleasantly surprised to find this a well produced story with excellent art and characterisation.

We find young Belit learning the trade and like all young people wanting to run before she jumps. Her father gives her the love and support until tragedy strikes. Did I say Belit dreamed of monsters? She certainly gets her wish in both human and other variety!

Well worth the entry fee.

Rating: 5 Stars



Wonder Twins #2 (DC)

Mark Russell (w) Stephen Byrne (a)

The adventures of the alien twins continues as they face down second rate villains in this passable story that certainly teaches the pair a lesson. Oh and they meet Beast Boy but get the wrong idea about fame as superheroes.

This story also parodies private prisons. These being run by Lex Corp. Thing is what do you do with an alcoholic vampire when you catch him?

Rating: 3 Stars



Superman #9 (DC)

Brian Michael Bendis (w) Ivan Reis & Brandon Peterson (a)

I have to say Superman is much more interesting these days and Bendis seems to be having fun recreating Superman for the modern age. A teenage son now no less (it's complicated Jon grew up) Jor-El roaming the universe and a very confused Clark/Kal.

Jon has been kept prisoner by the Crime Syndicate, specifically Ultra-man who turns out to be a bit of a wimp on the inside not that the same can be said for his wife, Lois. Confused? It's all multiple Earths and cosmic tricks.

Did I say Superwoman was a bitch? To be continued. ....

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Since there's a gap in my DC collecting due to being hospitalised I've picked up Superman Vol 1: The Unity Saga Hardback. Not read it yet.

Also purchased this week but not yet read: Vampironica Vol 1 (Archie) and Batman 80 years of Detective Comics Hardcover.  To be reviewed in due course.