New Reader Guide: Spider-Man

Welcome to the Austin Books & Comics New Reader Guide! We’re here to introduce some of our favorite books that you may not already know about, and maybe even help you find your next favorite comic series!

Spider-Man

Amazing, Spectacular, Ultimate. Lots of different titles have been used to describe arguably Marvel’s (and the world’s) most popular superhero, Spider-Man. First appearing in 1962’s Amazing Fantasy #15, Spider-Man’s enduring popularity is due in no small part to the combination of thrilling superheroics and the relateable drama of being an awkward, nerdy teenager, all under the mantra that with great power must also come great responsibility.

In this guide you’ll find the most accessible Spider-Man (and Spider-related) titles.

All titles are available at the store, and if not we will be happy to special order them for you!

Amazing Spider-Man

Amazing Spider-Man (2008)

In 2008, Spider-Man experienced a soft reboot of sorts with One More Day, which among other things undid Peter Parker and Mary Jane’s marriage. This brought Spider-Man back to his roots and introduced a brand-new, very accessible status quo. Written by the rotating “Spider-Man Brain Trust” of Dan Slott, Marc Guggenheim, Bob Gale, and Zeb Wells, among others, the Brand New Day era of Spider-Man was a great period for exciting new stories, characters, and long-running plot elements that are still around today.

Superior Spider-Man

Superior Spider-Man (2013)

Written by Dan Slott, this controversial series featured Doctor Octopus taking over Peter Parker’s mind. In doing so, he realized why Spider-Man does is the way he is, and decides that not only can he still be Spider-Man, he can do it better. Unfortunately, his villainous tendencies still crop up, such as hitting the bad guys a little too hard and hiring a mercenary army of Spider-Men to enforce his own version of justice.

Amazing Spider-Man (2014)

Amazing Spider-Man (2014)

Written by Dan Slott, the 2014 Marvel NOW! relaunch of Amazing Spider-Man found Peter Parker back in control of his body, but still having to deal with the fallout of Doctor Octopus running the show. This includes fixing strained and broken relationships with friends, family, and the superhero community, and trying to regain the trust of the public.

Spider-Verse

Spider-Verse (2014-2015)

This story arc (collected in volume 3 of the 2014 run as well as its own deluxe edition with all the tie-ins) brought together basically every alternate version of Spider-Man when a family of interdimensional vampires known as the Inheritors start killing off the Spider-people of different universes. Incredibly fun, exciting, and very funny, this event included and introduced a huge variety of Spider-people such as Spider-UK, the Captain Britain of his universe, anarchist hero Spider-Punk, breakout star Spider-Gwen, and even obscure versions such as the 1970s Japanese Spider-Man (complete with giant robot!) and the black and white daily newspaper comic Spider-Man.

Amazing Spider-Man (2015)

Amazing Spider-Man (2015)

Written by Dan Slott, the most recent relaunch came along with Marvel’s entire linewide relaunch post-Secret Wars. This series finds Peter Parker as the globetrotting CEO of Parker Industries, an international technology company. Not just constrained to the urban jungle of New York, Spider-Man travels all around the world working with allies in SHIELD helping to prevent one global catastrophe after another, as well as preventing Parker Industries tech from being used for evil purposes. Similar in some ways to Tony Stark, but still with the goofy Parker charm.

Spidey

Spidey (2015)

A throwback to Spider-Man’s early days, this series features Peter Parker trying to balance being a superhero with his regular life as a teenager. Spidey hearkens back to the classic Stan Lee/Steve Ditko era, while bringing a fresh, modern take on the classic Spider-Man tropes.

Spider-Man

Spider-Man (2016)

Written by Brian Michael Bendis, this series follows Miles Morales following the events of Secret Wars, in which elements of the Ultimate and 616 (main) universes were folded together. With Peter Parker operating globally, Miles becomes the main Spider-Man of New York City. Frequently guest-starring the other teen Avengers Ms. Marvel and Nova, Spider-Man is a fun, modern take on the classic Spidey tropes.

Spider-Man and Human Torch

Spider-Man and the Human Torch (2005)

A five issue miniseries chronicling Spider-Man and Human Torch’s friendship throughout the years, with each issue taking place in a distinct period in Spider-Man’s (and comics) history from their early days to the present! An accessible, all-ages friendly love letter to the rich history of Spider-Man.

Ultimate Spider-Man

Ultimate Spider-Man (2000)

In 2000, Marvel launched the Ultimate line of comics, in which their classic characters’ origins were reimagined and updated to modern times. The most consistent and enduring of these was Brian Michael Bendis’ Ultimate Spider-Man, which fleshed out Spider-Man’s origins, tying them in with the likes of Harry Osborn, Oscorp, Doctor Octopus, and SHIELD. The series also had new and modern takes on Kraven the Hunter, Mysterio, the Kingpin, Venom, and the infamous Clone Saga, among others. Ultimate Spider-Man was also notable for breaking Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s record for longest run of a single creative team (108 issues in Fantastic Four) with 111 issues written by Bendis and drawn by Mark Bagley.

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man (2009)

After the events of Ultimatum, the entire Ultimate line was relaunched as “Ultimate Comics.” Bendis continued his run, joined by artists such as David Lafuente and Sara Pichelli, further balancing the thrilling action with grounded teen drama. This series was capped off with the Death of Spider-Man event, which saw the death of Peter Parker and the introduction of Miles Morales, who ended up becoming the new Spider-Man.

All-New Ultimate Spider-Man

All-New Ultimate Spider-Man (2011)

Spinning out of the Death of Spider-Man, a new Spider-Man appeared. Miles Morales, a brilliant tween, was bitten by another genetically altered spider inadvertently stolen from OsCorp, which granted him not only the same spider powers as Peter Parker, but also limited invisibility and bioelectric venom blasts. Initially hesitant to use his powers, Miles is pushed by his best friend Ganke to use his newfound abilities to help people and continue the legacy of Spider-Man.

Miles Morales: Ultimate Spider-Man

Miles Morales: Ultimate Spider-Man (2013)

Following the Cataclysm event, this relaunch of the Miles Morales Spider-Man series saw the return of Peter Parker, further involvement with SHIELD, as well as a deepening of the conspiracy surrounding Miles’ father and uncle.

Spider-Gwen

Spider-Gwen (2015, 2016)

Written by Jason Latour, this series is a twist on the classic Spider-Man mythos. First appearing in Edge of Spider-Verse #2, Gwen Stacy of Earth-65 was bitten by a radioactive spider, granting her the proportional strength and speed of a spider. This series follows her adventures as Spider-Woman: fighting crooks, playing in a punk band, trying to clear her name for the death of Peter Parker, and hiding her secret identity from her detective father.

Silk

Silk (2015, 2016)

Written by Robbie Thompson, spinning out of Spider-Verse, Cindy Moon was a classmate of Peter Parker who was bitten by the same radioactive spider that granted Peter his powers. However, she was unable to control her powers, and is locked in a bunker in order to protect her and her family from Morlun and the Inheritors. She leaves the bunker just prior to the events of Spider-Verse, and soon discovers that her family has disappeared without a trace. The series follows her journey to find her missing family, as well as fit back into the world after being locked away for a decade. Best described as “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt with spider powers,” this series is bright, very funny, and often heartwrenching.

Web Warriors

Web Warriors (2015)

Also spinning out of Spider-Verse, this series, written by Mike Costa and draw by David Baldeon, stars a team of multiuniversal Spider-people including Spider-UK, Spider-Gwen, Spider-Ham, steampunk Lady Spider, Spider-Man India, and more, as they help protect the interconnected Web of Life from interdimensional threats. An incredibly fun, exciting series with a distinctive cartoony style, this is a must-read for fans of alternate versions of Spider-Man, and fun comics in general.

Venom

Venom (2011)

Written by Rick Remender, this series introduced a new version of Venom, starring former bully-turned-war hero Eugene “Flash” Thompson. After losing his legs serving in the Middle East, Flash volunteers for an experimental military program in which he is bonded with the Venom symbiote. This grants him not only the ability to walk again, but also super strength, speed, web shooters, and shape shifting powers. Codenamed Agent Venom, Flash can only stay bonded with the symbiote for up to 48 hours at a time before it becomes permanent. Dark, exciting, and deeply introspective, this series adds a ton of depth to what is often dismissed as just another extreme 90s character.

Venom: Space Knight

Venom: Space Knight (2016)

After his time with the Guardians of the Galaxy, Flash’s symbiote is purified, and he is recruited by the Agents of the Cosmos, traveling the stars to help those in need. He ends up teaming with depressed robot 803, Skrull soldier Tarna, deceptively cuddly bounty hunter Pik Rollo, and warrior queen Iqa, as well as his now-sentient Klyntar symbiote, as they travel across the galaxy evading bounty hunters and battling despotic warlords.

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New Reader Guide: Marvel Cinematic Universe

Welcome to the Austin Books & Comics New Reader Guide! We’re here to introduce some of our favorite books that you may not already know about, and maybe even help you find your next favorite comic series!

Marvel Cinematic Universe

Since 2008’s Iron Man, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been the leading force in superhero movies. With a combination of excellent characterization, unique visual and tonal styles, and respect for the source material, Marvel Studios films have earned billions at the box office and aren’t slowing down anytime soon.

In this guide you’ll find some of the stories that either inspired or were inspired by the various Marvel movies and TV shows.

All titles are available at the store, and if not we will be happy to special order them for you!

Movies

Tv Series

 

Movies

The Avengers

The Avengers/The Avengers: Age of Ultron

The culmination of the first and second phases, respectively, of the Marvel Studios film slates, these movies brought together their biggest names in an unprecedented extravaganza of superhero action.

What to read next:

The Ultimates/The Ultimates 2 (2001)
Written by Mark Millar and gorgeously illustrated by Bryan Hitch, the Ultimates re-imagines the Avengers as a government-sponsored superpowered task force, taking on global and extraterrestrial threats while also dealing with interpersonal conflicts. Much of this series heavily inspired the Avengers films, including the Chitauri invasion of New York City, as well as the depiction of Nick Fury modeled after Samuel L. Jackson. (Note: the violence and mature content of this book would earn it a hard PG-13 rating, recommended for at least age 14).

New Avengers (2005)
Written by Brian Michael Bendis, New Avengers was a complete relaunch of the Avengers line that brought the team to a more grounded and accessible level, which still maintaining the original spirit of the title. Notable for being the first Avengers lineup with Luke Cage, Spider-Man, and Wolverine as full-time members.

The Avengers (2012)
Written by Jonathan Hickman, the theme of the 2010 relaunch of the Avengers was “go big.” Featuring Hickman’s signature epic scale and intricate storytelling, a huge team lineup, and loads of twists and turns, this series took both the Avengers franchise and the Marvel Universe to new heights, culminating in 2015’s epic Secret Wars event.

Avengers Assemble (2012)
Written by Brian Michael Bendis then Kelly Sue DeConnick, this run was initially featured as a new-reader friendly series for fans of the movie, including having the same team lineup. Very accessible for new readers.

Black Panther

Black Panther

First introduced in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War, 2018’s Black Panther centers around warrior king T’Challa as he returns home to the advanced African nation of Wakanda, the only country on the continent to never be conquered by outside forces. Combining political intrigue and mysticism with superhero action, T’Challa must face down forces that seek to overthrow him from both within and without.

What to read next

Black Panther (2016)
Written by acclaimed writer Ta-Nahesi Coates, this series asks the question “If Wakanda is the most advanced nation on Earth, why does it still have a monarchy?” Featuring compelling political intrigue, brilliant characterization, social commentary, and intense action, this series redefined Black Panther for a new era.

Black Panther: World of Wakanda (2016)
Written by Roxanne Gay, World of Wakanda centers on Ayo and Aneka, also known as the Midnight Angels. As two of the top members of the Dora Milaje, the Black Panther’s personal elite guards, they must fight to protect their homeland from rebels attempting to destroy the throne.

Black Panther (2005)
A modern retelling of T’Challa’s origin and rise to the title of Black Panther with a distinct hip-hop flair. Featuring flashbacks through the lineage of previous Black Panthers, cameos from characters such as Storm and Luke Cage, this series featured a heavy dose of satire and an epic, cinematic scope.

Black Panther (1998)
Widely considered one of the greatest Black Panther, this series written by Christopher Priest featured a heavy amount of political intrigue, social commentary, and adventure with a heavy focus on T’Challa as a public figure through the eyes of US government official Everett Ross.

Iron Man

Iron Man/Iron Man 2/Iron Man 3

The introduction to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as well as the hands-down best depiction of a comic character with Robert Downey, Jr.’s Tony Stark, the Iron Man films have been absolutely essential as the driving force of the Marvel Studios films.

What to read next

Iron Man (2004)
Written by Warren Ellis and illustrated by Adi Granov, the mid-2000s relaunch of Iron Man had a massive influence on the film depiction of Iron Man, including the more-functional armor design, updating Tony’s origin to be in Afghanistan, and the focus on being on the absolute bleeding edge of technology development. Also notable in that it introduces Extremis, a key element in Iron Man 3.

Invincible Iron Man (2008)
Written by Matt Fraction and illustrated by Salvador Larroca, the first issue was released the same week as the first film, and has a similar grounded-yet-advanced feel. The main theme of the series is Tony desperately trying to keep his technology out of the hands of those who would use it for evil.

Iron Man: Demon in a Bottle (1979)
Written by David Michelinie & Bob Layton and illustrated by John Romita, Jr., Bob Layton, & Carmine Infantino, Demon in a Bottle is one of the quintessential Iron Man stories. Famous for Tony Stark nearly succumbing to, and overcoming alcoholism, which has become a major part of the character over the years. Also notable for being one of the first times that Jim Rhodes takes over for Tony as Iron Man, leading to him eventually gaining his own armor and identity as War Machine.

Captain America

Captain America: The First Avenger/Captain America: The Winter Soldier/Captain America: Civil War

Bringing pulpy action, twisty espionage thrills, and political intrigue, the Captain America films have been at the forefront of the Marvel Studios have been among the best in handling heavy themes like illegal government surveillance and corruption without sacrificing that essential sense of fun that Marvel Studios is famous for.

What to read next

Captain America (2005)
Written by Ed Brubaker, this run is easily one of the best of all time. Most famous for bringing former sidekick Bucky Barnes back from the dead as the assassin The Winter Soldier. This series was notable for having a darker, more grounded take on Captain America and SHIELD, with Brubaker applying his signature noir style to weave a modern classic story of espionage and intrigue.

Civil War (2006)
Written by Mark Millar and illustrated by Steve McNiven, this series gained national headlines at the time of its release for including themes such as government regulation of superpowers, as well as a number of major unexpected character reveals and deaths.

Secret Warriors (2009)
Written by Jonathan Hickman, this series featured Nick Fury waging a secret war against the evil organization Hydra, who as it turns out has been inside SHIELD from its inception. This series is Hickman at his intricate, espionage best: juggling multiple plots, having completely unexpected twists and turns, and resolving everything in an absolutely brilliant way.

Black Panther (2016)
Written by famed author Ta-Nehisi Coates, the current run on Black Panther has had a heavy focus on developing T’Challa’s homeland of Wakanda as a living, breathing place, as well as asking the question “if Wakanda is the most advanced nation on Earth, why does it still have a king?” Political intrigue, revolution, and Black Panther struggling to keep it all from collapse make this one of the best new titles, and a fantastic, new reader friendly take on the character.

Thor

Thor/Thor: The Dark World/Thor Ragnarok

Bringing a fantasy/Shakespearean element to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the Thor films blend action, court intrigue, fantasy, and humor into a truly unique blend that has stood apart from the other MCU offerings.

What to read next

Thor (2007)
Bringing back Thor and Asgard after being dead in the comics for several years, J.M. Stracynzski’s Thor was unique in that it brought Asgard back in the middle of the empty plains of Oklahoma, leading to some excellent character and plot moments of the Asgardians interacting with the average townsfolk of Broxton. The balance of high fantasy with grounded, relateable characters makes this one of the best Thor runs in recent memory.

The Mighty Thor (2015)
Written by Jason Aaron, this run gained a lot of attention for introducing a new female Thor after the Odinson was deemed unworthy following the events of Original Sin. This series features the bright colors, bombastic action, and sense of humor found in 2017’s Thor Ragnarok.

Journey Into Mystery (2011)
Written by Kieron Gillen, this particular run of Journey Into Mystery focused on a young, reincarnated version of Loki as the protagonist. Incorporating themes such as the importance of mythology and the nature of storytelling, this series blended a smart self-awareness with Gillen’s signature wit and style. A must read for fans of the Asgardian part of the Marvel canon.

Planet Hulk (2011)
Written by legendary Hulk writer Greg Pak, this series heavily influenced the gladiator aspects of Thor Ragnarok, and featured a Spartacus-like story of Hulk rising from slave to gladiator to conqueror of a brutal alien world.

Guardians of the Galaxy

Guardians of the Galaxy/Guardians of the Galaxy, Volume 2

Marvel Studios biggest gamble to date paid off in spades with this amazing sci-fi/action/comedy about a mostly-unknown team of misfits banding together to save the galaxy against a massive threat. The combination of thrilling sci-fi action, hilarious moments, and genuine pathos set this apart as a completely unique entry to the Marvel Studios slate, which continued into the equally hilarious, thrilling, and heartfelt Guardians of the Galaxy, Volume 2.

What to read next

Guardians of the Galaxy (2008)
Written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, this run influenced the film so much that “Based on Guardians of the Galaxy by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning” is included in the end credits. Starring the same team lineup from the movie as well as some new faces, this run combined sci-fi action, humor, and characterization into a grand space opera that is incredibly thrilling from start to finish, and one of the absolute best Marvel cosmic books.

Guardians of the Galaxy (2013)
Written by Brian Michael Bendis and illustrated by Steve McNiven & Sara Pichelli, this series took inspiration from the movie, with a similar team lineup and dynamic, as well as a grand space opera feel not unlike the Star Wars classic trilogy.

Nova (2013)
Starring teenager Sam Alexander, this series introduces a new generation of Nova. Blending classic Marvel teen superhero tropes with high-flying sci-fi action, Nova provides a unique perspective on cosmic adventures.

Silver Surfer (2015)
Written by Dan Slott with art by Mike and Laura Allred, this series has a heavy focus on fun, adventure, and cosmic goofiness with a healthy dose of Doctor Who-inspired whimsy. Following the cosmic adventures of the Silver Surfer and Earth girl Dawn Greenwood as they fly all over time and space, including the center of the universe, a space hotel made of millions of planets, and getting caught in a time loop, this series is thrilling and exciting from start to finish, with fantastic plotting, characterization, and some truly innovative artwork.

Ant-Man

Ant-Man

Another big gamble (and payoff) for Marvel Studios, Ant-Man is basically a mashup of heist films, comedies, and superhero movies. Adding to the broader history of the Marvel Cinematic Universe while still telling a very personal story, Ant-Man brings classic characters and concepts to the big screen.

What to read next

The Astonishing Ant-Man (2014)
Written by Nick Spencer, the style, characterization, and themes are very similar to the movie (comedy/heist elements, Scott Lang as Ant-Man with Hank Pym’s legacy overhead, Scott trying to provide for his daughter). This series combines characterization and comedy with great storytelling that is perfect for fans of the film.

Superior Foes of Spider-Man (2013)
Also written by Nick Spencer, this series is effectively the spiritual predecessor to Astonishing Ant-Man. Featuring a similar combination of wit and pathos, it features a group of D-List Spider-Man villains teaming up for a big score. It’s just a shame they’re too busy trying to stab each other in the back to effectively get ahead. If you never thought you’d be rooting for a group of loser supervillains, read this book and be pleasantly surprised.

The Incredible Hulk

The Incredible Hulk

An often-overlooked entry into the MCU, The Incredible Hulk still brought explosive action, style, and strong characterization, in addition to a lot of world-building.

What to read next

Planet Hulk (2006)
The ultimate “Hulk vs. everybody” story, Planet Hulk finds the jade giant shot off into space after the Illuminati determine him to be too big of a threat to global security. Hulk lands on an alien world and is cast into gladiator combat, where in a parallel to the classic film Spartacus, gathers a group of allies to fight their way to the top and overthrow their oppressors.

Hulk Visionaries: Peter David
Widely regarded as one of the greatest Hulk writers, Peter David’s run combined massive action with deeply introspective character moments, with large doses of humor throughout. Notable for introducing different versions of the Hulk, including the reintroduction of the Gray Hulk and the iconic Mr. Fixit.

Totally Awesome Hulk (2016)
A twist on the standard Hulk story, Totally Awesome Hulk features longtime Hulk ally and 7th smartest person in the world Amadeus Cho as the new Hulk. This series has huge, thrilling monster fights and Cho’s teenage goofiness, along with the struggles of keeping a rampaging beast contained.

Doctor Strange

Doctor Strange

The first introduction of magic and mysticism in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Doctor Strange follows the story of Dr. Stephen Strange, brilliant but arrogant neurosurgeon, as he goes from the top of his field to the lowest of lows after a car crash destroys the use of his hands. Desperate to fix himself, Strange spends his fortune and travels the globe looking for a solution, only to discover the mystical forces just outside of our normal view, and becomes Sorcerer Supreme, guardian of Earth against magical and extradimensional invaders.

What to read next

Doctor Strange (2015)
Written by Jason Aaron, this series introduces the reader to the everyday weirdness faced by Doctor Strange and his magical allies that’s always hiding just out of view. Featuring Aaron’s signature combination of excellent storytelling and characterization, Doctor Strange is portrayed as world-weary, yet still confident and a little cocky. Very accessible for new readers.

Doctor Strange: The Oath (2006)
Written by Brian K. Vaughan, The Oath focuses on Doctor Strange desperately trying to fulfill his oath as a doctor, Sorcerer Supreme, and friend when his loyal servant Wong is given a terminal diagnosis, as well as uncovering the identity of the person who attempted to kill him.

Strange (2004)
Written by J.M. Straczynski, Strange is a modern retelling of Doctor Strange’s origin. From his beginnings as an arrogant surgeon to his harrowing journey to find the Ancient One and learn the ways of the mystic, Strange is an excellent introduction to the Sorcerer Supreme.

Spider-Man Homecoming

Spider-Man Homecoming

Spinning out of his appearance in Captain America: Civil War, this first full entry of Spider-Man into the Marvel Cinematic Universe finally nails the combination of characterization between Peter Park and Spider-Man, along with a great supporting cast (featuring a scene-stealing Ned Leeds and disturbingly intense Vulture), and enough references to plant it firmly in the MCU while standing well on its own.

What to read next

Ultimate Spider-Man (2000), Ultimate Comics Spider-Man (2009)
A modern retelling of the origin and early years of Spider-Man in Marvel’s Ultimate universe, this series redefined the character for a new era, and featured an excellent balance between teen drama with Peter Parker and superhero action as Spider-Man.

All-New Ultimate Comics Spider-Man (2011)
Following the death of Peter Parker, this series centers around Miles Morales, a New York kid of African American and Puerto Rican descent, who also ends up bitten by a genetically engineered spider and gaining powers. Unlike Peter Parker, Miles is a few years younger, and gains new powers including venom blasts and invisibility. The series follows his journey to live up to Peter’s legacy, while also balancing life as a superhero with that of a teenager.

Spider-Man (2016)
Following 2015’s Secret Wars event, this series finds Miles as part of the main Marvel Universe. Peter Parker has taken off worldwide with Parker Industries, leaving Miles as the main Spider-Man protecting New York City. With a supporting cast featuring Kamala Khan aka Ms. Marvel and Sam Alexander aka Nova, this series features the classic Ultimate Spider-Man formula of teen drama and superheroics with some new twists and turns.

Peter Parker, the Spectacular Spider-Man (2017)
Bringing things back to basics, this series written by Chip Zdarsky finds Peter Parker back to New York City where he takes on foes both old and new, teaming up with heroes such as Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, and Riri Williams aka Ironheart, as well as appearances by J. Jonah Jameson and Wilson Fisk, the Kingpin of Crime!

Spidey (2015)
Featuring untold stories from Spider-Man’s early years, this series brings an old-school superhero sensibility with some modern twists.

TV Series

Jessica Jones

Jessica Jones

Smart, witty, dark, and unabashedly feminist, Jessica Jones introduced the flawed-yet-likable title character to the MCU with an intensely personal story of overcoming the horrors of your past and living up to your fullest potential.

What to read next

Alias: AKA Jessica Jones (2001)
As equally witty and dark as the show it inspired, Alias provided a unique view into the seedy underbelly of the Marvel Universe while developing Jessica as a strong but deeply flawed character. (Note: This series was published under Marvel’s MAX mature readers line, so parental discretion is strongly advised).

The Pulse (2004)
The successor to Alias, The Pulse featured Jessica Jones working at The Pulse, a subsection of the Daily Bugle focused on the superhero goings-on in New York. Notable for further developing the relationship between Jessica and Luke Cage, including the birth of their daughter.

New Avengers (2010)
The 2010 relaunch of New Avengers featured Luke Cage as the new team leader, with him, Jessica, and their daughter moving into the rebuilt Avengers mansion. This series saw even more development of Jessica and Luke’s relationship, with her struggling with balancing motherhood and superheroics.

Jessica Jones (2016)
Her first solo series in a decade, this new ongoing takes Jessica back to her PI roots of the gritty underworld of the Marvel Universe.

Daredevil

Daredevil

Marvel’s first foray into the Netflix prestige series format, Daredevil introduced MCU fans to the gritty underworld not previously seen onscreen. The series hints at the larger universe while taking place in a world all of its own. Combining thrilling martial arts action and hints of mysticism, Daredevil on Netflix is one of the strongest onscreen depictions of a Marvel property to date.

What to read next

Daredevil (2001)
Widely regarded as one of the best Daredevil runs of all time, Brian Michael Bendis consistently put Matt Murdock through the wringer in this incredibly gritty run that returned Daredevil to the crime noir roots planted by Frank Miller in the early 1980s. This series delves deep into Matt’s mental state as he is pushed to the absolute limits, but shows the resiliency and heart that he’s famous for.

Daredevil (2011)
A huge contrast to so many other Daredevil runs, Mark Waid’s Daredevil much more swashbuckling action-adventure than gritty, self-loathing. This run combines a unique visual style by artists such as Paolo Rivera and Marcos Martin (including an incredibly cool depiction of Daredevil’s radar sense) with Mark Waid’s wonderful balance of action, drama, humor, and heart to provide a consistently great experience from start to finish.

Daredevil (1979)
The defining Daredevil run, Frank Miller took Daredevil’s Silver Age goofiness and injected it with a ton of crime drama grit with a heavy dose of noir. This series introduced numerous character-defining elements such as Matt’s Catholicism, the incorporation of ninja mysticism, and rebuilding Daredevil’s villains as more nuanced and dangerous, while still maintaining a grounded, noir feel.

Luke Cage

Luke Cage

First introduced to the MCU in 2015’s Jessica Jones, Luke Cage takes the bulletproof hero uptown to Harlem where he tangles with crime lords, arms dealers, shady politicians, and more, while exploring topical subjects like African American identity and masculinity, corrupt authorities, and family secrets. Stylish with a distinct sense of 70s cool, with the most overt references to the greater MCU, this series brings a slick hip-hop sensibility to the Netflix corner of the Marvel Universe.

What to read next

Power Man and Iron Fist (2016)
Focusing on the now (mostly) straight-laced family man Luke Cage and the still let’s-beat-up-the-bad-guys Iron Fist reuniting the Heroes for Hire to protect the city from gangsters, magic and otherwise. Featuring a heavy hip-hop influence, this is Marvel’s premier buddy-action duo at their goofy best, and that’s no fiddle-faddle.

Mighty Avengers/Captain America and the Mighty Avengers (2013)
Spinning out of the Infinity crossover event, this newest team of Avengers comes together when the main team is off-world, and nobody else is there to defend against Thanos and his crew of villains. Setting up shop in the repurposed Gem Theater in Harlem, Luke Cage leads this new team of street level heroes, with their hotline open to anyone

Luke Cage, Hero for Hire (1972)
Where it all started: wrongfully imprisoned Carl Lucas undergoes a dangerous prison experiment, granting him super strength and unbreakable skin. He heads to Harlem, New York, and sets up shop as a Hero for Hire, busting up gangs and fighting the good fight for the little guy.

Luke Cage (2017)
The latest series starring the unbreakable man. This series finds Luke as he learns of the death of the doctor who gave him his indestructible skin, and subsequently goes to New Orleans to discover that he wasn’t the only product of the experiments that created him.

Iron Fist

Iron Fist

The final entry in the Netflix corner of the Marvel Cinematic Universe before the big Defenders team-up event, Iron Fist follows Danny Rand, son of wealth and privilege, as he returns home after being presumed dead for 15 years. In his time away he was raised as a warrior in the mystical city of K’un-Lun, sharpening his body and mind to become the Iron Fist, Living Weapon and sworn protector of K’Un-Lun. Upon his return, he quickly falls into a web of shady deals, family secrets, and secret evil organizations threatening to destroy society as we know it.

What to read next

The Immortal Iron Fist (2006)
Widely regarded as one of the best takes on the character, this run, initially written by Matt Fraction and Ed Brubaker with art by David Aja expanded the origin and background of Iron Fist, making Danny the current in a long line of Immortal Weapons. Blending gritty, street-level action with a strong sense of mysticism (as well as Fraction’s distinct sense of characterization and humor he’d later use in his Hawkeye series), this series brings a thrilling, modern take on the character.

Power Man & Iron Fist (2016)
The boys are back in town as the best friends and former Heroes For Hire Luke Cage and Danny Rand, the Immortal Iron Fist, team up to protect Harlem from all threats, including demonically-possessed former employees, revamped gangsters, and the resurrected son of former West Coast crime bosses.

Iron Fist (2017)
K’un-Lun has been destroyed, and Danny desperately travels the brutal underworld fighting rings around the world as he seeks to reconnect with the chi that powers the legendary Iron Fist. In this journey, he is taken to a deadly island and forced to fight in a series of matches organized by a mysterious group seeking the power of K’un-Lun for themselves. Reminiscent of classic 70s Kung Fu movies, this series is a must read for fans of martial arts, gritty action, and a touch of mysticism.

Power Man and Iron Fist: Heroes For Hire (1978)
Marvel’s original buddy action duo teams up the unbreakable Luke Cage, Power Man with the mystical master of Kung Fu, Danny Rand, the Iron Fist. As the Heroes For Hire, they’ll take on any job, no matter how dangerous, as long as the check clears.

Iron Fist (1974)
The original stories of Danny Rand, son of privilege, Kung Fu master, and wielder of the immensely powereful Iron Fist. Returning to his home of New York after years in the mystical city of K’un-Lun following a plane crash that left him orphaned, it’s wall-to-wall King Fu action as Iron Fist faces down ninja assassins, death cults, and more, while teaming up with allies Colleen Wing and Misty Knight aka the Daughters of the Dragon.

The Defenders

The Defenders

The culmination of the first four Netflix series, The Defenders finds Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, and Iron Fist being forced to team up and save New York from the Hand as they seek to destroy the city and kill millions of people.

What to read next

The Defenders (2017)
Inspired by the Netflix series, this ongoing series features the foursome teaming up to fight major street-level threats, including powerful underworld forces, the Kingpin of Crime, and a certain skull-clad antihero.

The Punisher

The Punisher

Spinning out of the second season of Daredevil, The Punisher finds Frank Castle at the end of his mission of unrelenting brutality against the people who killed his family. Seeking a quiet, peaceful life, Frank is soon embroiled in a conspiracy of secrets, lies, and violence dating back to his time fighting in Afghanistan in the Marine Corps. A surprisingly thoughtful take on the nature of violence, treatment of veterans, PTSD, and grief, this series combines high-octane action with introspection and pathos.

What to read next

Marvel Knights: The Punisher (2000)
One of Garth Ennis’ defining runs on the character, this series centers around Frank Castle and his brutal one-man war against crime. Combining Ennis’ unique blend of violence, characterization, and pitch-black humor, this series set the style and tone for Ennis’ subsequent Punisher runs for much of the 2000s.

Punisher Born (2003)
This four issue miniseries follows Frank Castle through the jungles of Vietnam as he goes from USMC captain to the walking embodiment of death and destruction that he would later become.
(note: this miniseries was published under the Marvel MAX line and is absolutely not for kids)

Punisher MAX (2004)
Ennis’ other defining take on the character, this series dialed up the grit and brutality and dropped the goofiness found in the Marvel Knights series, with only small cameos from characters such as Nick Fury and Microchip. This series featured a much older Frank Castle, who has been active for decades, and often includes references to major real world events such as the War on Terror, corporate crimes, conflicts in the Balkans, in a decidedly much more grounded take on the character.

PunisherMAX (2010)
Written by Jason Aaron, this series combined elements of Garth Ennis’ runs while taking place in the current Marvel Universe, featuring Frank fighting against MAX versions of familiar supervillains.

The Punisher (2011)
Written by Greg Rucka and taking place firmly in the Marvel Universe (and shedding the adults-only MAX label) and featuring cameos from characters such as Daredevil and Spider-Man, this series focuses heavily on those surrounding and affected by his actions. Frank ends up teaming with Rachel Cole, a fellow former Marine and grief-stricken wife whose husband was killed on their wedding day.

Runaways

Runaways

A group of Los Angeles teenagers from affluent families discover that their parents are supervillains and part of a secret group called The Pride. They make this discovery as they accidentally see their parents kill a teen runaway as part of a ritual sacrifice ceremony, and are forced to band together using their unique abilities, newly-discovered powers, and family secrets (including a genetically-engineered dinosaur!) to stop their parents’ reign of crime and terror.

What to read next

Runaways (2003)
Written by Brian K. Vaughan, this series introduced the LA teens to the world as they make the horrifying discovery about their parents. Their adventures include meeting Skrull royalty, running headlong with the Avengers (featuring Wolverine getting into superpowered Molly’s face and the hilarious results), and fighting the son of a legendary Marvel villain. Combining teen drama, superpowers, comedy, and romance, this is one of the defining teen superhero comics of the last couple decades.

Runaways (2017)
Written by Rainbow Rowell and featuring art by Kris Anka, this series finds the surviving members of the Runaways as they try to put their lives back together and face new threats.

Agents of SHIELD

Agents of SHIELD

Tying into the background of the films (including a turning point based around the climax of Captain America: The Winter Soldier), Agents of SHIELD features presumed-dead Agent Phil Coulson and his secret team of spies, soldiers, and scientists as they fight the forces of Hydra and other villainous elements of the MCU.

What to read next

Agents of SHIELD (2016)
Written by Mark Waid, the Agents of SHIELD comic series introduced the characters of the show into the main comics universe, interacting with characters and elements never before seen onscreen (including an early cameo from Howard the Duck!).

Secret Warriors (2009)
It only makes sense that a TV series starring a presumed-dead agent and his covert team of operatives waging a secret war against Hydra would borrow elements from Jonathan Hickman’s espionage thriller Secret Warriors. Much like the show, this series takes place in the background of major events of the greater universe.

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New Reader Guide: Valiant Comics

Welcome to the Austin Books & Comics New Reader Guide! We’re here to introduce some of our favorite books that you may not already know about, and maybe even help you find your next favorite comic series!

Valiant Comics

Since their relaunch in 2012, Valiant (give ‘em a follow on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Tumblr!) has been putting out top-quality comics in a tight, shared universe that has garnered consistent critical acclaim. Some books regularly cross over or feature characters from other books, while others are pretty much entirely independent. They have a wide variety of genres, from political action-thrillers, high-concept sci-fi, supernatural romance, and buddy action-comedies, so there’s something for everyone!

All titles are available at the store, and if not we will be happy to special order them for you!

Ongoing/Collected Titles

Archer & Armstrong

Archer & Armstrong

Obadiah Archer is a naive assassin raised in an fundamentalist cult called the Dominion, part of a larger conspiracy of groups called The Sect who aim to take over the world. Aram Anni-Padda, aka Armstrong, is a 6,000 year old immortal warrior who is more content drinking, reading poetry, and palling around with artists. Archer is sent out by his parents to kill Armstrong and gather the parts of the Boon, which granted Armstrong and his brothers immortality, only to learn the truth about his parents’ evil plans. Together they travel the world fighting the various arms of the Sect, including a Wall Street death cult called the 1% and psychic Nazi Tibetan Monks.

Genres: Action, adventure, comedy
For fans of: Globetrotting adventure, social/pop culture satire, mismatched buddy action-comedies, Marvel’s The Incredible Hercules, The Venture Brothers
Number of volumes: 7

A&A: The Adventures of Archer & Armstrong

A&A: The Adventures of Archer & Armstrong

The continuing adventures of Valiant’s mismatched pairing of a drunken immortal warrior and his super-polite assassin best friend. The new series finds Armstrong reminiscing about an old friend, so he dives deep into his magic bag to retrieve an old bottle of whiskey (Lagavulin 1907, to be precise). Along the way he gets captured by the mad party god Bacchus, who has been trapped in the bag for millennia and now commands armies of goblins and monsters. Archer discovers his friend is missing and dives straight into the weirdness contained within Armstrong’s bag.
Genres: Action, adventure, comedy, fantasy

For fans of: The Venture Brothers, Cartoony action, buddy action-comedies, bizarre adventures with goofy new characters
Number of volumes: 3

Bloodshot

Bloodshot

Bloodshot is an amnesiac soldier, enhanced with nanomachines that give him a variety of abilities including enhanced strength, speed, and the capability to withstand and recover from an ungodly amount of damage. For years he was used by the private military corporation Project Rising Spirit as the perfect weapon for a variety of black operations. On one mission he was captured by a rogue PRS scientist who revealed the truth to him. Now, Bloodshot seeks revenge on the people who manipulated him for years, as well as redemption for all of the atrocities committed while under PRS’ control.

Genres: Action, political thriller, military sci-fi
For fans of: smart, exciting action movies, Captain America: The Winter Soldier (Comic and film), the Bourne films
Number of volumes: 6

Bloodshot Reborn

Bloodshot Reborn

Following the events of The Valiant, Bloodshot is a shadow of his former self. Eager to escape the violence and chaos of his past life but still plagued by nightmares of the atrocities he has committed, he works as a handyman in a small-town motel. He is reluctantly pulled back into action when a rash of mass shootings occurs committed by people with white skin and red circles on their chests.

Genres: Action, thriller
For fans of: smart, exciting action movies, psychological thrillers, redemption stories, Old Man Logan, The Punisher
Number of volumes: 4

Bloodshot Salvation

Bloodshot Salvation

After the events of Bloodshot USA, Ray Garrison, the man formely known as Bloodshot, has finally found peace with his love Magic and their baby daughter Jessie. But when Magic’s horrific family creeps back into the picture, Bloodshot is once again called back to his old life of violence in the name of protecting his family. Also, in the near future, Bloodshot is missing and Magic and Jessie are hunted relentlessly by agents of Omen (risen from the ashes of Project Rising Spirit) including the sinister super soldier Rampage, an evil mirror image of Bloodshot.

Genres: Action, thriller
For fans of: smart, exciting action movies, Taken, family dramas, Logan (movie), Lone Wolf and Cub
Number of volumes: 3

Eternal Warrior

Eternal Warrior

For 6,000 years Gilad Anni-Padda, the youngest and bravest of the three immortal Anni-Padda brothers, has fought at the behest of the Geomancer, who can speak with the spirit of the Earth itself. After millenia of constant warfare, he has grown weary and simply wants to live a quiet life in peace. However, for the Eternal Warrior, the battle is never far behind.

Genres: Action, adventure, fantasy
For fans of: 300, historical action/drama
Number of volumes: 3

Wrath of the Eternal Warrior

Wrath of the Eternal Warrior

Following the events of Book of Death, Eternal Warrior Gilad Anni-Padda finds himself in a foreign yet familiar place far beyond the reaches of life and time itself. Surrounded by strange, evil forces and an overwhelming sense of dread, he sets out to return to the world of the living.

Genres: Action, supernatural
For fans of: action, horror
Number of volumes: 3

Faith

Faith

Spinning out of the pages of Harbinger and Unity, fan favorite Faith Herbert aka Zephyr is setting out on her own to discover what it means to be a solo superhero. Hiding her identity as mild-mannered blogger Summer Smith, the high-flying fangirl heads out to Los Angeles where in between stopping muggers and puppy-nappers she uncovers a deep-rooted alien conspiracy.

Genres: Action, superhero
For fans of: Ms. Marvel, bright, fun, and positive superheroics, stories with a strong female lead
Number of volumes: 4

Generation Zero

Generation Zero

Raised by the paramilitary corporation Project Rising Spirit to be psychic weapons, the group of psiot teens known as Generation Zero have escaped and gone underground. Now they’ve sworn to use their powers to protect each other, as well as to fight for a generation without a future.

Genres: Action, teen drama, sci-fi
For fans of: Runaways, the A-Team, Stranger Things, Doom Patrol
Number of volumes: 2

Harbinger

Harbinger

Peter Stanchek is a psiot, an individual with incredible psychic powers. He is recruited into the Harbinger Foundation by Toyo Harada, a rich philanthropist and easily the most powerful psiot ever. Peter is horrified to learn of Harada’s methods and intentions of global domination. He escapes and recruits a team to fight against Harada: Kris, a brilliant childhood friend with no powers; Torque, a disabled young man whose psychic powers make him appear as a big, strong, superhero; Flamingo, a woman who can create and manipulate fire; and Faith, a full-figured, confident, geeky young woman who can fly.

Genres: Action, teen drama, sci-fi
For fans of: Runaways, a darker, more grounded take on the X-Men
Number of volumes: 6

Harbinger Renegade

Harbinger Renegade

In the fallout of the events of the end of Harbinger, the Renegades are scattered. Peter is gone, and with all of the Harbinger Foundation’s secrets out in the open, psiots with amazing powers are appearing right and left. However, the already-dangerous nature of psiot activation is made even more deadly by untrained builders using DIY systems. With a new, darker threat on the horizon, the Renegades must regroup and fight back against the coming storm.

Genres: Action, teen drama, sci-fi
For fans of: Runaways, a darker, more grounded take on the X-Men
Number of volumes: 2

Imperium

Imperium

Following the events of Harbinger, all-powerful psiot Toyo Harada decides to take a more active role in the shaping his vision of humanity’s future. Gathering an incredible force including a genetically engineered Vine assassin, a former terrorist-turned-super-soldier, a pacifist killer robot, and an amoral interdimensional scientist, Harada begins his “battle for Utopia,” which he is determined to win at any cost.

Genres: Action, sci-fi, political thriller
For fans of: Warren Ellis’ Thunderbolts, villains who believe that they’re the hero
Number of volumes: 3

Ivar, Timewalker

Ivar, Timewalker

Ivar, the oldest and wisest of the three immortal Anni-Padda brothers, can track small holes in space-time that he uses to travel through time. Dr. Neela Sethi is a brilliant young physicist working at CERN who discovers time travel. Their paths cross immediately before she makes this discovery, and they end up teaming with Ivar’s brothers Armstrong and Gilad, traveling across space and time, including (not) killing Hitler, the end of all time, alternate timelines, and the 41st century. Did I mention clown vikings? Because clown vikings.

Genres: Adventure, comedy, sci-fi
For fans of: Doctor Who, exciting adventures with a lot of humor
Number of volumes: 3

Ninjak

Ninjak

Colin King aka Ninjak is a British aristocrat and one of MI-6’s top intelligence agents. His solo book follows his hunt for the Shadow Seven, an international criminal cabal connected the people who trained him to be the world-class operative/assassin that he is today, as well as his formative years as a child and later as a new recruit with MI-6.

Genres: Action, adventure, spy thriller
For fans of: the James Bond films, Batman, high-tech spy action
Number of volumes: 5

Ninjak

Ninja-K

Colin King is the latest in a long line of elite ninja agents trained and operated by the British government, dating back to the first World War. The past and present of the Ninja Programme will collide when numerous past ninja agents are killed one by one by a mysterious assailaint, and only Ninjak can stop it.

Genres: Action, adventure, spy thriller
For fans of: the James Bond films, Batman, high-tech spy action, conspiracy thrillers
Number of volumes: 2

Quantum and Woody

Quantum and Woody

Straight-laced Eric and sleazy con man Woody are estranged foster brothers, brought back together by the murder of their father. During their investigation they end up accidentally gaining amazing powers, but have to KLANG their wristbands together every 24 hours or they will de-atomize completely. Eric, calling himself Quantum, is determined to be a superhero, while Woody is more focused on using his powers for fame and fortune. Throughout their misadventures they run afoul of everyone from separatist militias to a Thomas Edison-founded super science terrorist organization.

Genres: Action, comedy, satire
For fans of: Psych, The Venture Brothers, buddy action comedies, political/social satire, equally crass and heartfelt characterization
Number of volumes: 4

Quantum and Woody (2017)

Quantum and Woody (2017)

Dysfunctional superhero brothers Eric (aka Quantum) and Woody Henderson have become estranged, living separate lives but still (begrudgingly) meeting up once every 24 hours to KLANG their wristbands together. The cause of their estrangement? Eric discovered the identity and whereabouts of Woody’s birth father, but kept that to himself. Wackiness and brotherly hijinks ensue when Woody teams up with a questionable-at-best organization who promises he can be free of Eric forever if he helps them steal an ultra-secret item from a government facility, where Eric happens to be a security guard.

Genres: Action, comedy
For fans of: Arrested Development, The Venture Brothers, buddy action comedies
Number of volumes: 2

Rai

Rai

Witness the future of the Valiant Universe in the 41st century. Japan was built up and developed into a massive pillar, which detached from Earth and is now an orbiting station home to billions of people. New Japan is run by a benevolent artificial intelligence called Father, and the nation itself has divided into sectors based on social hierarchy. Enforcing Father’s justice is the near-mythic figure Rai, the spirit guardian of New Japan, who is called to investigate the first murder in centuries.

Genres: Action, sci-fi
For fans of: futuristic/cyberpunk sci-fi, Japanese culture, Akira, The Matrix, Appleseed, Ghost in the Shell
Number of volumes: 4

Shadowman

Shadowman

Jack Boniface has inherited his late father’s role as the Shadowman, a supernatural guardian against the forces of Master Darque and the Deadside. The gritty underworld of New Orleans will become a supernatural battleground as Jack struggles to live up to his father’s legacy and preventing the forces of darkness from running rampant on the world of the living.

Genres: Horror, action
For fans of: horror with a voodoo/Cajun bent, Supernatural (TV series)
Number of volumes: 5

Shadowman

Shadowman (2018)

Having returned from the Deadside, Jack Boniface is ready to reclaim his title as the supernatural defender Shadowman. As it turns out, he’s the latest in a long line of Shadowmen, dating back to the mid-19th century when the mystical loa bonded with his ancestor and fated Jack to his destiny.

Genres: Horror, action
For fans of: horror with a voodoo/Cajun bent, Supernatural (TV series)
Number of volumes: 1

Unity

Unity

The team of machine-talking psiot Livewire, Gilad Anni-Padda the Eternal Warrior, MI-6 operative Colin King aka Ninjak, and Aric of Dacia aka X-O Manowar unite to use their unique skills to counter global threats to humanity, including psychic terrorist sleeper cells, intergalactic alien hunters, and Toyo Harada himself.

Genres: Action, sci-fi
For fans of: The Avengers, Justice League, team books, non-stop action
Number of volumes: 7

X-O Manowar

X-O Manowar

Aric of Dacia is a 5th century Visigoth warrior. Brave, noble, but brash to a fault, he was on the verge of leading his people to sack Rome. Immediately before the final push, he was kidnapped by a scout team of aliens known as the Vine. Along with several of his fellow Visigoths as well as other humans from around the world, he was enslaved and tortured for years until he stole the Vine’s sacred X-O Manowar armor and returned to Earth. However, due to time dilation from lightspeed travel, 1600 years had passed and he was now in the present. A man out of time and equipped with invincible power armor, Aric declares himself protector of Earth against all threats.

Genres: Action, sci-fi
For fans of: “Man out of time” tropes, fast-paced storytelling, the idea of how a superpowered person would shift global politics
Number of volumes: 13

X-O Manowar

X-O Manowar (2017)

On a distant world, the weary Aric of Earth tries to find peace, far away from the war and strife that has followed him his entire life. However, when he is conscripted into action to fight a war between two long-warring factions, the man once known as X-O Manowar will once again don the unstoppable alien armor and rise from soldier to general to emperor.

Genres: Action, sci-fi, war
For fans of: space operas, The Longest Day, fantasy, Star Wars
Number of volumes (to date): 4

Event/Limited Series

4001 AD

4001 AD

After a failed attempt to overthrow Father and free New Japan from his despotic rule, Rai finds himself exiled to a barren and desolate Earth. However, he won’t be alone, with allies including a much older and wiser Eternal Warrior and a gigantic power armor derived from the original X-O Manowar. The fight for the future begins in 4001 AD.

Genres: Action, sci-fi
For fans of: Akira, Appleseed, Ghost in the Shell, futuristic sci-fi, cyberpunk, revolution stories

Armor Hunters

Armor Hunters

The Armor Hunters are a corps of elite soldiers, gathered to stop the growing spread of unstoppable power armors across the universe. Their hunt leads them to Earth and puts not only X-O Manowar, but all of humanity in the crosshairs.

Genres: Action, sci-fi, crossovers
For fans of: Sci-fi action on an epic scale

Bloodshot USA

Bloodshot USA

In the fallout of Bloodshot Island (Bloodshot Reborn #14-18), Project Rising Spirit has initiated the next phase of their Deathmate project: infecting Manhattan with a nano-virus that turns regular people into unstoppable Bloodshot drones! Bloodshot and Bloodshot Squad (old Bloodshots from wars gone by) must lead the most dangerous invasion ever on American soul to save New York and the world itself!

Genres: Action, sci-fi
For fans of: smart, exciting action movies, The Rock (film), The Punisher

Book of Death

Book of Death

Following the events of The Valiant, the Earth seems to be rebelling against humanity, with bizarre natural disasters killing hundreds of people. Having brought a young Geomancer named Tama from the distant future to the present day, Gilad Anni-Padda consults her knowledge of future events in order to stop the death and destruction caused by the Earth itself.

Genres: Action, fantasy
For fans of: crossovers, fast-paced event books with major consequences

Britannia

Britannia

At the height of Nero’s reign of the Roman Empire, “Detectioner” and Legionnaire Antonius Axia is sent to the farthest reaches of the Empire to investigate the reports of strange events coming from the isle of Britannia. On the fringes of civilization he will face unimaginable horrors that blur the line between real and nightmare.

Genres: Action, horror, mystery, crime noir
For fans of: psychological thrillers, historical action, pulp detective stories

Britannia: We Who Are About To Die

Britannia: We Who are About To Die

As Rome’s leading (and only) detectioner, Antonius Axia is dispatched by Nero to investigate a string of gruesome murder of Roman nobility, the only connection between them being a bloody statue of Apollo found at each of the murder sites. Meanwhile, a fierce woman gladiator is only a few victories away from earning her freedom, stirring up whispers of uprising in the empire.

Genres: Action, horror, mystery, crime noir
For fans of: Gladiator (film), psychological thrillers, historical action, pulp detective stories, Roman mythology

Britannia: Lost Eagles of Rome

Britannia: Lost Eagles of Rome

When three of Rome’s finest legions are soundly defeated by Germanic barbarian hordes and the eagle standards they carried signifying them as mighty Roman troops are stolen, the mad emperor Nero dispatches detectioner Antonius Axia and his companion, the former gladiatrix Achillia to recover the lost symbols. Their journey leads them to the depths of terror and madness in the woodlands of Tottenwald as they discover the true power of the lost eagles.

Genres: Action, horror, mystery
For fans of: psychological thrillers, historical action, Roman mythology, H.P. Lovecraft

Dead Drop

Dead Drop

Four interconnected stories follow the unlikely grouping of X-O Manowar, Archer, Detective Cejudo, Beta-Max, and MI-6 operative Neville Alcott as they desperately pursue a courier carrying a deadly alien virus across New York City. If they don’t catch the virus before it’s released, it’s the end of all life on Earth as we know it.

Genres: Action
For fans of: fast-paced non-stop action

The Delinquents

The Delinquents

Conspiracy-busting best pals Archer & Armstrong team up with the World’s Worst Superhero Team of Quantum & Woody in a cross-crountry adventure to find a massive hoard of hobo treasure while preventing it from falling into the wrong hands. Using an ass-map. Yes, really.

Genres: Adventure, comedy
For fans of: crossovers, road trip comedies, The Venture Brothers, team-up stories

Divinity

Divinity

Decades ago, Abram Adams was the USSR’s top candidate selected for a top-secret program that would not only beat the Americans into space, but to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. He was lost, presumed dead, and erased from the history books. Now he has returned in the present with the powers of a god.

Genres: Sci-fi
For fans of: smart sci-fi, 2001: A Space Odyssey

Divinity II

Divinity II

In the first Divinity miniseries, a trio of cosmonauts were sent to the furthest depths of space. One of them returned with godlike powers, threatening to shift the balance of world affairs. Now another has returned, and is setting her sights on using her immense powers to restore Mother Russia to her former Soviet glory.

Genres: Sci-fi, political thriller
For fans of: classic sci-fi, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Cold War thrillers

Divinity III: Stalinverse

Divinity III: Stalinverse

Following the events of Divinity II, the world as we know it has changed. The Soviet Union won the Cold War and now rules and globe with an iron fist, their rule enforced by the nanite-enhanced Komandar Bloodshot, alien armored champion Aric, Son of the Revolution, and the godlike cosmonaut Myshka. Amongst all this, Soviet Agent Colin King remembers a world of heroes, and seeks out the omnipotent Divinity to restore the world to normal.

Genres: Sci-fi, political thriller
For fans of: smart sci-fi, alternate history, Cold War thrillers

Eternity

Eternity

Outside of our known universe of space and time, a parallel realm has developed full of mystery and wonder, linked intangibly but irrevocably to our own. What are these links, and what do its inhabitants want with the son of Abram Adams, the being known as Divinity? Join Abram and his companion Myshka as the venture into the infinite realm and encounter the Unknown itself, source of their godlike powers.

Genres: Sci-fi
For fans of: smart sci-fi, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Moebius/Jodorowsky, Kirby and Ditko’s psychedelic work in the 1970s

 The Death-Defying Doctor Mirage

The Death-Defying Doctor Mirage

Shan Fong, better known as Doctor Mirage, has the ability to talk to the dead, a gift she uses to help solve murders and bring peace to the grieving. Sadly, the only one she can’t communicate with is her recently-deceased husband Hwen. Shan embarks on a journey into the world of the dead in the hopes of finding her lost love, before he is truly lost forever.

Genres: Supernatural, horror, romance, drama
For fans of: supernatural romance, strong female leads, varying ways people deal with grief

Doctor Mirage: Second Lives

The Death-Defying Doctor Mirage: Second Lives

Following the events of the first miniseries, Shan and Hwen Fong are searching for some way to restore Hwen to his physical form. They discover an ancient, obscure spell that can do exactly that, only to find that it accompanied by an unspeakable evil that threatens to destroy both the living and the dead.

Genres: Supernatural, horror, romance, action, drama
For fans of: romance, strong female leads, Supernatural (TV series)

Faith and the Future Force

Faith and the Future Force

Time itself is unraveling as a mysterious foe is destroying the threads of history, throwing all of reality into chaos. Dr. Neela Sethi, Timewalker, recruits LA’s own high-flying fangirl Faith and they set out on an epic mission across all of space and time to prevent everything that is, was, or ever will be from being destroyed.

Genres: Action, sci-fi
For fans of: strong female leads, time travel

Harbinger Wars

Harbinger Wars

Bloodshot and the psiot children rescued from Project Rising Spirit, Toyo Harada and the Harbinger Foundation, the group of psiots known as Generation Zero, Peter Stanchek and his Renegades, and the advanced paramilitary force of Project Rising Spirit all come crashing together on the Las Vegas Strip in the first Valiant crossover, featuring the casts of Bloodshot and Harbinger.

Genres: Action, sci-fi, crossovers
For fans of: Large scale action

Harbinger Wars II

Harbinger Wars II

With the sudden surge in the number of active psiots following the release of the Harbinger Foundation’s data, the government dispatches the paramilitary organization Omen and their H.A.R.D. Corps unit to stem the tide. Meanwhile, the Harbinger Renegades have been building a force of psiots with astonishing abilities to stand up against the oppression brought down by Omen and their army of thugs. This also draws the attention of X-O Manowar, having just returned from his own odyssey of war and struggle on a distant world. Still more, Amanda McKee aka Livewire sees the growing threat of Omen and must choose between her allegiance to the government and her own team of Secret Weapons. In the ensuing chaos, Bloodshot and Ninjak are dispatched to stop Livewire at all costs.

Genres: Action, sci-fi, crossovers
For fans of: Large scale action

Rapture #1

Rapture

In the mysterious and dangerous realm known as the Deadside, Tama the Geomancer of Earth must gather the eclectic team of Ninjak, Shadowman, and Punk Mambo to stop an ancient foe from breaking through to the walls of heaven and destroy all of creation.

Genres: Action, adventure, fantasy
For fans of: Lord of the Rings, Indiana Jones

Savage

Savage

In the past, world-famous soccer star Kevin Sauvage, his wife Veronica, and their infant son Kevin, Jr. crash land on an uncharted island. However the island is far from deserted… Deep in the jungles lie monstrous reptilian horrors from the prehistoric era! The family must struggle not only to survive, but to retain their very humanity. Today, Kevin, Jr. is alone on the island, struggling day-to-day to survive and fighting off vicious dinosaurs at every turn.

Genres: Adventure, action, horror
For fans of: dinosaur action, the Savage Land, survival/castaway stories

Secret Weapons

Secret Weapons

The technopath hero Livewire, in an effort to fight evil and protect the innocent, recruits a team of psiots with seemingly useless powers: a girl who can talk to birds, a young man who can make anything appear but with no control over what appears or when, and a man who can make anything glow with a soft green light. Drawn out by the killer mechanical horror known as Rex-O, Livewire’s team will realize their full potential and show that no matter how useless, their powers can make a world of difference.

Genres: Action, sci-fi
For fans of: misfit superhero teams, Misfits (TV series), Runaways

The Valiant

The Valiant

For 6,000 years during his time as the Eternal Warrior, Gilad Anni-Padda has faced the Immortal Enemy three times. Three times he has failed, which led to the Geomancer dying and Earth being plunged into a new dark age. This time, he won’t be fighting alone. Valiant’s major event of 2014 brings together every major hero of the Valiant Universe, with a main focus on Bloodshot and the Eternal Warrior.

Genres: Action, adventure, horror
For fans of: fast-paced event books with lasting consequences

Valiant High

Valiant High

A re-imagining of the heroes and villains of the Valiant universe as high school students and their teachers. X-O Manowar as the hotshot quarterback, Livewire and Faith as the lead besties, Ninjak as the mysterious new foreign exchange student, Bloodshot as the overly-intense gym coach, among others. Laughs, thrills, and romance abound, and you never know who will turn up in the halls at Valiant High!

Genres: Comedy, romance
For fans of: Archie, Ms. Marvel, Teen Titans GO!

The Valiant

War Mother

2,000 years in the future, a lone warrior and her sentient sniper rifle are all that stand between a peaceful village in the jungles of former Central America and a violent end at the hands and claws and fangs of unspeakable mutant horrors that lie just beyond the walls.

Genres: Action, adventure, sci-fi
For fans of: strong female leads, Mad Max: Fury Road

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