home.social

#fantasticfour — Public Fediverse posts

Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #fantasticfour, aggregated by home.social.

  1. Marvelous Market: Best New Comics September 16

    Marvel’s X-Men Event Begins

    Hello and welcome to the Marvelous Market, my weekly guide for anyone interested in going to a comic book store today. In addition to a full list of new # 1s and new volume 1s, I’ll be giving you my top 4 recommendations in 4 categories. Like Houston legend Mike Jones rapped, “We’re still tippin’ on four-fours.” I’m going to give you the top four new comics, top four ongoing comics, the top four graphic novels, and the top 4 preorders.

    The work going into this curation is made possible by readers like you. For less than the cost of a cup of coffee a month, you can help make this work possible.

    New Issue # 1s

    ABSOLUTE CASSANDRA CAIN # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    SPINNING OUT FROM ABSOLUTE CATWOMAN COMES THE ABSOLUTE DEMON’S HAND! Years ago, The Joker trained with the League of Assassins, and when he learned all he could, he slaughtered everyone. But out of the wreckage of what was left came Lady Shiva and her daughter, CASSANDRA CAIN. Learn the origin of the Absolute Universe’s most formidable assassin and how her story is one that is intertwined with the world’s greatest thief, Selina Kyle, Catwoman!

    THE BIG SHAKEDOWN # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The Big One, the earthquake to end all earthquakes, has finally struck Los Angeles. The government decides not to rebuild and the city becomes a no man’s land for those that refuse to leave it. But hey, you can’t beat the weather.

    Five years later Ester Blanco, a down on her luck former P.I., is willing to do anything to escape the City of Angels. She believes she’s found her ticket out when a desperate father hires her to solve a missing person’s case in a city where a third of the population is already missing. Instead, the trail of this lost girl leads Ester to uncover a dark web of cults, conspiracy and corruption that threatens every Angeleno that stayed behind.

    THE BIG SHAKEDOWN is a sunbaked LA noir in the vein of Chinatown and The Long Goodbye and set in the post-apocalyptic remains of the most beloved/hated city in the world. From writers Jordan Blum (Minor Threats) Tim Seeley (Local Man) and artist Scott Koblish (The Despicable Deadpool) comes a pulpy tale of murder, destruction and traffic. 

    DNX # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    THE X-VIRUS UNLEASHED!

    The X-Men and 3K. Each steered by an original heir of Xavier, each with their own vision for the mutant people. Each at one another’s throats. Cyclops and the Chairman both experienced the future of the Age of Revelation and came home with a renewed mission: the X-Men to prevent that future. 3K to own it. While the X-Men seek out the Fantastic Four to help save one of their own, the White Beast begins his plan to unleash the X-Virus in a major populated area! EVOLUTION IS CONTAGIOUS!

    OFIUSA # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    BE CAREFUL WHEN DIVING INTO THE WATERS OF OFIUSA.

    Writer and artist GUILLEM MARCH, well known for his work on Batman, The Joker, and Catwoman, returns as a solo creator after his acclaimed KARMEN in this new, edgy six-part series.

    The romance between the irresistible Marand the young entrepreneur Joan gets off to a flying start. In another timeline, Joan meets the enigmatic Isla on a paradise island. A love triangle in which everyone is hiding something, while a dark secret from the past awaits to be revealed.

    With exquisite artwork that evokes paradise and a story that gradually lays bare the characters’ souls — while also leaving room for fun, seduction, and the search for truth. What happens in Ofiusa stays in Ofiusa.

    ONGOING SERIES

    ABSOLUTE GREEN ARROW # 5

    SOLICIT COPY:

    WHO WILL BE SACRIFICED? At the mercy of Hector Hammond, Black Canary and the Green Arrow Killer finally bear witness to the depraved horrors Hammond has been hiding. But when a horrible sacrifice evens the odds … will Dinah have traded one threat for an even more terrifying danger?

    BATMAN OF TWO WORLDS # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    Matt Fraction’s Dark Knight meets Scott Snyder’s Absolute Batman in this Batman Day 2026 one-shot.

    G.I. JOE # 26

    SOLICIT COPY:

    ROUND TWO: G.I. JOE AND NIGHT FORCE WON’T BACK DOWN! The epic battle between the two teams takes a dangerous turn as a new Joe enters the fight! Can Baroness’s secret mission stop the war?

    TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURLES # 22

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The hunt for the Ujigami door knocker continues! It’s the Hungry Ghost Festival, a time when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is at its thinnest, bringing back both Turtle friend and foe! With Karai and Stockman attempting to raise an army of undead ninja, it’s the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ last chance to close the door before the dead come back for good. Can they do it in time?!

    Trade Paperbacks, Hardcovers, and OGNs

    BATMAN: GARGOYLE OF GOTHAM Deluxe Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    WHEN YOU CASE YOUR OWN SHADOW… IT LEADS YOU INTO THE ABYSS.

    Batman knows intimately even the darkest and most irredeemable streets of Gotham City, but when an all-new rogues gallery of depraved villains emerges from its murky depths, he will come to find that he hardly knows himself. A serial killer is on the loose, and while the murder victims seem random at first, every clue draws Batman closer to the terrifying truth—that they are all connected, not just to each other…but to him. Batman will have to contend with the very nature of evil— including that which lurks inside in the darkest corners of his own heart—to face what’s coming for his city. Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham brings Eisner Award-winning creator Rafael Grampá’s twisted vision of both the Dark Knight and Gotham City to life in this thrilling deluxe edition that will reach its icy black tendrils into the rotting heart of human nature and leave you gasping for breath—and for more!

    Collects Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham #1-4.

    THE DISSIDENTS: AUTOCRATS! VIGILANTES! COMMUNISTS! . . . AND CARTOONISTS! HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    From the award-winning author of My Friend Dahmer and Kent State comes a timely graphic novel about racism, violence, and political turmoil in the early 20th century, when a handful of cartoonists and journalists pushed back against a corrupt administration to defend the rights of free speech

    “WE’VE BEEN HERE BEFORE . . . BUT WE FORGOT.”

    It’s 1916. President Woodrow Wilson―a deeply divisive authoritarian who is also a white supremacist with open contempt for constitutional rights―sits in the Oval Office.

    Racial tensions, unprecedented economic inequality, a groundswell of support for unionization, and the rise of both a reactionary far right militia and a growing radical opposition shake the very foundations of American society. A pandemic is two years away. And the 1900s have only just gotten started.

    GILDED SEVEN vol. 1 TP

    SOLICIT COPY:

    A historical action with a supernatural twist that comes highly recommended from ONE—creator of One Punch Man! Take a trip to an unknown timeline where Abraham Lincoln didn’t die, and the wild west is wilder than ever! From the creator of No Guns Life.

    State trooper Keigo Westwood tracks down the La Llorona gang to Yellowstone National Park. Just as he’s about to arrest their leader, an eruption throws him back to the frontier times in 1865. Law and order have yet to be established, and Keigo finds himself still locked in battle with the six La Llorona members who traveled back in time alongside him. However, Kiego has a powerful ally in the greatest president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln! Throw out your history books and get ready to see the Wildest West!

    INTO THE UNBEING Library Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The entire terrifying journey of four scientists lost within a giant eldritch corpse is collected in this deluxe hardcover graphic novel volume. It’s a cosmic body-horror epic from acclaimed author Zac Thompson and Eisner-winning artist Hayden Sherman!

    Find yourself in its innards.

    A group of climate scientists working in a remote base camp on the Australian outback discover an impossible landform. Led by botanist Hildur Johansson, the team sets out to conduct a routine exploratory mission to map the terrain, record their observations, and try to understand this anomalous landscape. But this is no landscape. This is the Unbeing.

    The team discovers a sprawling eldritch corpse that threatens to upend everything they understand about the natural world. Propelled by hubris and the intoxicating charm of forbidden knowledge, the research team descends into a hostile alien environment allowed to thrive without human interference. The beautiful yet unforgiving landscape hosts strange flora, gorgeous fauna, and dangerous predators lurking in the darkness. 

    Into The Unbeing is a journey centuries in the making, chronicling the many lives who’ve been lost to the seemingly malevolent corpse. As they navigate the sprawling Lovecraftian labyrinth, the climate scientists must form a distrustful and desperate alliance with a mysterious humanoid known only as the Stranger. This incomprehensible Stranger claims to be a nineteenth-century British explorer. It claims to know the way back to the surface. It claims a new world is on its way. Perhaps if you listen closely, you can hear it breathing. But what is the cost of this new world? And who will be left to live in it?

    Into the Unbeing is an adventure into the sublime from the critically acclaimed writer Zac Thompson (Cemetery Kids Don’t Die, Alien: Romulus) and Eisner-winning artist Hayden Sherman (Batman: Dark Patterns, Absolute Wonder Woman). 

    Collects Into the Unbeing Part 1 #1–#4 and Into the Unbeing Part 2 #1–#4.

    Preorders on Final Order Cutoff

    AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE Deluxe Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    R.I.P. Riverdale! Once in a generation, a story so potent, so powerful, so horrifying rises from the grave to redefine the comics medium’s greatest icons. Enter: The first-ever deluxe collection of Afterlife with Archie — collecting the totality of the groundbreaking, cemetery-shaking comics masterpiece from Harvey Award–winning writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Stephen King’s The Stand: American Nightmare) and Eisner Award–winning artist Francesco Francavilla (Batman: The Black Mirror) that first introduced Riverdale’s teenage icons into a merciless world of ritual magic, undead terror, and survival at any cost!

    When a tragic death befalls Jughead Jones’s closest companion, his grief drives him to the doorstep of Sabrina the Teenage Witch… and into the thrall of a dark magic that will soon turn the whole of Riverdale into a ravenous pack of undead zombies fueled by a desire for human flesh. Hunted by the reanimated corpses of their friends and loved ones, can Archie, Betty, Veronica, and the rest of America’s most beloved teenagers battle back by a legion of the dead… and live long enough to stop the entire world from being consumed by the same unholy hunger? Pal vs. pal. Classmate vs. classmate. Living vs. dead. They swore to be friends until the end… but they never expected the end to look quite like this.

    This definitive hardcover collection of the riveting and relentless milestone that the New York Times calls “gruesome [and] masterly” re-presents the entirety of the Afterlife with Archie saga—including the never-before-collected issues #6–10—in an oversized format that also features a complete cover gallery and behind-the-scenes materials on the development of Archie Comics’ first all-out horror epic.

    Collecting Afterlife with Archie #1–10.

    THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN: HALLOWEEN SPECIAL # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    HAPPY SPIDER-WEEN! Treat yourself with tricks in this epic Halloween adventure! The TRICK — Hallows’ Eve tries to pull off her biggest heist yet, and Spider-Man’s gotta stop her before she imperils the ENTIRE 616! The TREAT — a new costume for Spidey?!

    PLUS, WE HAVE SOME SPIDEY SECRETS HIDDEN AWAY IN THIS ISSUE, TOO!

    IN YOUR SKIN TP

    SOLICIT COPY:

    Bollywood body horror collides with erotic obsession as a die-hard fan resolves to replace her retiring screen idol, blurring fantasy and flesh in a dark, intoxicating debut.

    Priyanka is a Bollywood uber-fan who has been obsessed with film star Ayesha Sen since she was a kid — she’s watched her movies over and over, and knows her dances beat for beat. But after a once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet her idol goes awry, and Ayesha announces her impending retirement from movies, Priyanka decides that if Ayesha isn’t going to live the life she’s supposed to, Priyanka would be more than happy to take over for her…

    Aditya Bidikar (The Department of Truth, Blue in Green) and rising star artist Som (Crocodile Black) present a twisted exploration of celebrity culture, identity, and image that’s perfect for fans of The Substance, Perfect Blue, Black Swan and David Cronenberg.

    Collects #1-4.

    MAFALDA Book Two HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    As good a place as any to enter the madcap world of Mafalda and friends, Book Two of Mafalda finds the gang up to new antics. Mafalda heads off on a beach vacation, where she meets a curious stranger: Miguelito, a mop-headed philosopher who happens to live right down the street back at home. Susanita, Manolito, and Felipe, meanwhile, continue to tussle over all matter of issues, romp around the neighborhood, and execute physical feats of great proportions. Only this time, Quino brings everyone together in an alien environment: elementary school.

    Quino’s legendary comic fuses political incisiveness with all sorts of gags and hijinks. Mafalda notes the peculiar effects of consumerism and globalization, the ironies of sexism, and the injustices of poverty. Her clear-sighted antiwar beliefs will inspire a new generation of thinkers and activists. All the while young readers will fall in love with Quino’s drawings which evoke all the humor, irritation, ponderousness, and energy of childhood.

    What did I miss?

    If there are some great comics, collected or in single issues, that you think I should be reading, tell me about them! And if you do try out any of these series, let me know how you liked them, or didn’t. This is a safe space for haters. If you enjoy this service, please share this article on social media or tell someone that you know reads comics about it.

    Divining Comics is brought to you by generous support from the “Best Friends of Divining Comics”: Alex Seubert. Dustin Commet

    Divining Comics is also brought to you by the support of the “Friends of Divining Comics”: Comic Book Herald.

    If you would like to add your name to the list of friends, best friends, or best friends forever, support this work for less than the cost of one cup of coffee a month at patreon.com/diviningcomics. You can also leave a one-time tip/buy my zines at ko-fi.com/spikestonehand. Or, if you can’t afford to support me financially at this time, simply follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and Bluesky and share my posts there.

    #art #books #ComicBooks #comics #DC #dcComics #fantasticFour #marvel #marvelComics #MarvelousMarket #NewComicDay
  2. Marvelous Market: Best New Comics September 16

    Marvel’s X-Men Event Begins

    Hello and welcome to the Marvelous Market, my weekly guide for anyone interested in going to a comic book store today. In addition to a full list of new # 1s and new volume 1s, I’ll be giving you my top 4 recommendations in 4 categories. Like Houston legend Mike Jones rapped, “We’re still tippin’ on four-fours.” I’m going to give you the top four new comics, top four ongoing comics, the top four graphic novels, and the top 4 preorders.

    The work going into this curation is made possible by readers like you. For less than the cost of a cup of coffee a month, you can help make this work possible.

    New Issue # 1s

    ABSOLUTE CASSANDRA CAIN # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    SPINNING OUT FROM ABSOLUTE CATWOMAN COMES THE ABSOLUTE DEMON’S HAND! Years ago, The Joker trained with the League of Assassins, and when he learned all he could, he slaughtered everyone. But out of the wreckage of what was left came Lady Shiva and her daughter, CASSANDRA CAIN. Learn the origin of the Absolute Universe’s most formidable assassin and how her story is one that is intertwined with the world’s greatest thief, Selina Kyle, Catwoman!

    THE BIG SHAKEDOWN # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The Big One, the earthquake to end all earthquakes, has finally struck Los Angeles. The government decides not to rebuild and the city becomes a no man’s land for those that refuse to leave it. But hey, you can’t beat the weather.

    Five years later Ester Blanco, a down on her luck former P.I., is willing to do anything to escape the City of Angels. She believes she’s found her ticket out when a desperate father hires her to solve a missing person’s case in a city where a third of the population is already missing. Instead, the trail of this lost girl leads Ester to uncover a dark web of cults, conspiracy and corruption that threatens every Angeleno that stayed behind.

    THE BIG SHAKEDOWN is a sunbaked LA noir in the vein of Chinatown and The Long Goodbye and set in the post-apocalyptic remains of the most beloved/hated city in the world. From writers Jordan Blum (Minor Threats) Tim Seeley (Local Man) and artist Scott Koblish (The Despicable Deadpool) comes a pulpy tale of murder, destruction and traffic. 

    DNX # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    THE X-VIRUS UNLEASHED!

    The X-Men and 3K. Each steered by an original heir of Xavier, each with their own vision for the mutant people. Each at one another’s throats. Cyclops and the Chairman both experienced the future of the Age of Revelation and came home with a renewed mission: the X-Men to prevent that future. 3K to own it. While the X-Men seek out the Fantastic Four to help save one of their own, the White Beast begins his plan to unleash the X-Virus in a major populated area! EVOLUTION IS CONTAGIOUS!

    OFIUSA # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    BE CAREFUL WHEN DIVING INTO THE WATERS OF OFIUSA.

    Writer and artist GUILLEM MARCH, well known for his work on Batman, The Joker, and Catwoman, returns as a solo creator after his acclaimed KARMEN in this new, edgy six-part series.

    The romance between the irresistible Marand the young entrepreneur Joan gets off to a flying start. In another timeline, Joan meets the enigmatic Isla on a paradise island. A love triangle in which everyone is hiding something, while a dark secret from the past awaits to be revealed.

    With exquisite artwork that evokes paradise and a story that gradually lays bare the characters’ souls — while also leaving room for fun, seduction, and the search for truth. What happens in Ofiusa stays in Ofiusa.

    ONGOING SERIES

    ABSOLUTE GREEN ARROW # 5

    SOLICIT COPY:

    WHO WILL BE SACRIFICED? At the mercy of Hector Hammond, Black Canary and the Green Arrow Killer finally bear witness to the depraved horrors Hammond has been hiding. But when a horrible sacrifice evens the odds … will Dinah have traded one threat for an even more terrifying danger?

    BATMAN OF TWO WORLDS # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    Matt Fraction’s Dark Knight meets Scott Snyder’s Absolute Batman in this Batman Day 2026 one-shot.

    G.I. JOE # 26

    SOLICIT COPY:

    ROUND TWO: G.I. JOE AND NIGHT FORCE WON’T BACK DOWN! The epic battle between the two teams takes a dangerous turn as a new Joe enters the fight! Can Baroness’s secret mission stop the war?

    TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURLES # 22

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The hunt for the Ujigami door knocker continues! It’s the Hungry Ghost Festival, a time when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is at its thinnest, bringing back both Turtle friend and foe! With Karai and Stockman attempting to raise an army of undead ninja, it’s the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ last chance to close the door before the dead come back for good. Can they do it in time?!

    Trade Paperbacks, Hardcovers, and OGNs

    BATMAN: GARGOYLE OF GOTHAM Deluxe Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    WHEN YOU CASE YOUR OWN SHADOW… IT LEADS YOU INTO THE ABYSS.

    Batman knows intimately even the darkest and most irredeemable streets of Gotham City, but when an all-new rogues gallery of depraved villains emerges from its murky depths, he will come to find that he hardly knows himself. A serial killer is on the loose, and while the murder victims seem random at first, every clue draws Batman closer to the terrifying truth—that they are all connected, not just to each other…but to him. Batman will have to contend with the very nature of evil— including that which lurks inside in the darkest corners of his own heart—to face what’s coming for his city. Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham brings Eisner Award-winning creator Rafael Grampá’s twisted vision of both the Dark Knight and Gotham City to life in this thrilling deluxe edition that will reach its icy black tendrils into the rotting heart of human nature and leave you gasping for breath—and for more!

    Collects Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham #1-4.

    THE DISSIDENTS: AUTOCRATS! VIGILANTES! COMMUNISTS! . . . AND CARTOONISTS! HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    From the award-winning author of My Friend Dahmer and Kent State comes a timely graphic novel about racism, violence, and political turmoil in the early 20th century, when a handful of cartoonists and journalists pushed back against a corrupt administration to defend the rights of free speech

    “WE’VE BEEN HERE BEFORE . . . BUT WE FORGOT.”

    It’s 1916. President Woodrow Wilson―a deeply divisive authoritarian who is also a white supremacist with open contempt for constitutional rights―sits in the Oval Office.

    Racial tensions, unprecedented economic inequality, a groundswell of support for unionization, and the rise of both a reactionary far right militia and a growing radical opposition shake the very foundations of American society. A pandemic is two years away. And the 1900s have only just gotten started.

    GILDED SEVEN vol. 1 TP

    SOLICIT COPY:

    A historical action with a supernatural twist that comes highly recommended from ONE—creator of One Punch Man! Take a trip to an unknown timeline where Abraham Lincoln didn’t die, and the wild west is wilder than ever! From the creator of No Guns Life.

    State trooper Keigo Westwood tracks down the La Llorona gang to Yellowstone National Park. Just as he’s about to arrest their leader, an eruption throws him back to the frontier times in 1865. Law and order have yet to be established, and Keigo finds himself still locked in battle with the six La Llorona members who traveled back in time alongside him. However, Kiego has a powerful ally in the greatest president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln! Throw out your history books and get ready to see the Wildest West!

    INTO THE UNBEING Library Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The entire terrifying journey of four scientists lost within a giant eldritch corpse is collected in this deluxe hardcover graphic novel volume. It’s a cosmic body-horror epic from acclaimed author Zac Thompson and Eisner-winning artist Hayden Sherman!

    Find yourself in its innards.

    A group of climate scientists working in a remote base camp on the Australian outback discover an impossible landform. Led by botanist Hildur Johansson, the team sets out to conduct a routine exploratory mission to map the terrain, record their observations, and try to understand this anomalous landscape. But this is no landscape. This is the Unbeing.

    The team discovers a sprawling eldritch corpse that threatens to upend everything they understand about the natural world. Propelled by hubris and the intoxicating charm of forbidden knowledge, the research team descends into a hostile alien environment allowed to thrive without human interference. The beautiful yet unforgiving landscape hosts strange flora, gorgeous fauna, and dangerous predators lurking in the darkness. 

    Into The Unbeing is a journey centuries in the making, chronicling the many lives who’ve been lost to the seemingly malevolent corpse. As they navigate the sprawling Lovecraftian labyrinth, the climate scientists must form a distrustful and desperate alliance with a mysterious humanoid known only as the Stranger. This incomprehensible Stranger claims to be a nineteenth-century British explorer. It claims to know the way back to the surface. It claims a new world is on its way. Perhaps if you listen closely, you can hear it breathing. But what is the cost of this new world? And who will be left to live in it?

    Into the Unbeing is an adventure into the sublime from the critically acclaimed writer Zac Thompson (Cemetery Kids Don’t Die, Alien: Romulus) and Eisner-winning artist Hayden Sherman (Batman: Dark Patterns, Absolute Wonder Woman). 

    Collects Into the Unbeing Part 1 #1–#4 and Into the Unbeing Part 2 #1–#4.

    Preorders on Final Order Cutoff

    AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE Deluxe Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    R.I.P. Riverdale! Once in a generation, a story so potent, so powerful, so horrifying rises from the grave to redefine the comics medium’s greatest icons. Enter: The first-ever deluxe collection of Afterlife with Archie — collecting the totality of the groundbreaking, cemetery-shaking comics masterpiece from Harvey Award–winning writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Stephen King’s The Stand: American Nightmare) and Eisner Award–winning artist Francesco Francavilla (Batman: The Black Mirror) that first introduced Riverdale’s teenage icons into a merciless world of ritual magic, undead terror, and survival at any cost!

    When a tragic death befalls Jughead Jones’s closest companion, his grief drives him to the doorstep of Sabrina the Teenage Witch… and into the thrall of a dark magic that will soon turn the whole of Riverdale into a ravenous pack of undead zombies fueled by a desire for human flesh. Hunted by the reanimated corpses of their friends and loved ones, can Archie, Betty, Veronica, and the rest of America’s most beloved teenagers battle back by a legion of the dead… and live long enough to stop the entire world from being consumed by the same unholy hunger? Pal vs. pal. Classmate vs. classmate. Living vs. dead. They swore to be friends until the end… but they never expected the end to look quite like this.

    This definitive hardcover collection of the riveting and relentless milestone that the New York Times calls “gruesome [and] masterly” re-presents the entirety of the Afterlife with Archie saga—including the never-before-collected issues #6–10—in an oversized format that also features a complete cover gallery and behind-the-scenes materials on the development of Archie Comics’ first all-out horror epic.

    Collecting Afterlife with Archie #1–10.

    THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN: HALLOWEEN SPECIAL # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    HAPPY SPIDER-WEEN! Treat yourself with tricks in this epic Halloween adventure! The TRICK — Hallows’ Eve tries to pull off her biggest heist yet, and Spider-Man’s gotta stop her before she imperils the ENTIRE 616! The TREAT — a new costume for Spidey?!

    PLUS, WE HAVE SOME SPIDEY SECRETS HIDDEN AWAY IN THIS ISSUE, TOO!

    IN YOUR SKIN TP

    SOLICIT COPY:

    Bollywood body horror collides with erotic obsession as a die-hard fan resolves to replace her retiring screen idol, blurring fantasy and flesh in a dark, intoxicating debut.

    Priyanka is a Bollywood uber-fan who has been obsessed with film star Ayesha Sen since she was a kid — she’s watched her movies over and over, and knows her dances beat for beat. But after a once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet her idol goes awry, and Ayesha announces her impending retirement from movies, Priyanka decides that if Ayesha isn’t going to live the life she’s supposed to, Priyanka would be more than happy to take over for her…

    Aditya Bidikar (The Department of Truth, Blue in Green) and rising star artist Som (Crocodile Black) present a twisted exploration of celebrity culture, identity, and image that’s perfect for fans of The Substance, Perfect Blue, Black Swan and David Cronenberg.

    Collects #1-4.

    MAFALDA Book Two HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    As good a place as any to enter the madcap world of Mafalda and friends, Book Two of Mafalda finds the gang up to new antics. Mafalda heads off on a beach vacation, where she meets a curious stranger: Miguelito, a mop-headed philosopher who happens to live right down the street back at home. Susanita, Manolito, and Felipe, meanwhile, continue to tussle over all matter of issues, romp around the neighborhood, and execute physical feats of great proportions. Only this time, Quino brings everyone together in an alien environment: elementary school.

    Quino’s legendary comic fuses political incisiveness with all sorts of gags and hijinks. Mafalda notes the peculiar effects of consumerism and globalization, the ironies of sexism, and the injustices of poverty. Her clear-sighted antiwar beliefs will inspire a new generation of thinkers and activists. All the while young readers will fall in love with Quino’s drawings which evoke all the humor, irritation, ponderousness, and energy of childhood.

    What did I miss?

    If there are some great comics, collected or in single issues, that you think I should be reading, tell me about them! And if you do try out any of these series, let me know how you liked them, or didn’t. This is a safe space for haters. If you enjoy this service, please share this article on social media or tell someone that you know reads comics about it.

    Divining Comics is brought to you by generous support from the “Best Friends of Divining Comics”: Alex Seubert. Dustin Commet

    Divining Comics is also brought to you by the support of the “Friends of Divining Comics”: Comic Book Herald.

    If you would like to add your name to the list of friends, best friends, or best friends forever, support this work for less than the cost of one cup of coffee a month at patreon.com/diviningcomics. You can also leave a one-time tip/buy my zines at ko-fi.com/spikestonehand. Or, if you can’t afford to support me financially at this time, simply follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and Bluesky and share my posts there.

    #art #books #ComicBooks #comics #DC #dcComics #fantasticFour #marvel #marvelComics #MarvelousMarket #NewComicDay
  3. Marvelous Market: Best New Comics September 16

    Marvel’s X-Men Event Begins

    Hello and welcome to the Marvelous Market, my weekly guide for anyone interested in going to a comic book store today. In addition to a full list of new # 1s and new volume 1s, I’ll be giving you my top 4 recommendations in 4 categories. Like Houston legend Mike Jones rapped, “We’re still tippin’ on four-fours.” I’m going to give you the top four new comics, top four ongoing comics, the top four graphic novels, and the top 4 preorders.

    The work going into this curation is made possible by readers like you. For less than the cost of a cup of coffee a month, you can help make this work possible.

    New Issue # 1s

    ABSOLUTE CASSANDRA CAIN # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    SPINNING OUT FROM ABSOLUTE CATWOMAN COMES THE ABSOLUTE DEMON’S HAND! Years ago, The Joker trained with the League of Assassins, and when he learned all he could, he slaughtered everyone. But out of the wreckage of what was left came Lady Shiva and her daughter, CASSANDRA CAIN. Learn the origin of the Absolute Universe’s most formidable assassin and how her story is one that is intertwined with the world’s greatest thief, Selina Kyle, Catwoman!

    THE BIG SHAKEDOWN # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The Big One, the earthquake to end all earthquakes, has finally struck Los Angeles. The government decides not to rebuild and the city becomes a no man’s land for those that refuse to leave it. But hey, you can’t beat the weather.

    Five years later Ester Blanco, a down on her luck former P.I., is willing to do anything to escape the City of Angels. She believes she’s found her ticket out when a desperate father hires her to solve a missing person’s case in a city where a third of the population is already missing. Instead, the trail of this lost girl leads Ester to uncover a dark web of cults, conspiracy and corruption that threatens every Angeleno that stayed behind.

    THE BIG SHAKEDOWN is a sunbaked LA noir in the vein of Chinatown and The Long Goodbye and set in the post-apocalyptic remains of the most beloved/hated city in the world. From writers Jordan Blum (Minor Threats) Tim Seeley (Local Man) and artist Scott Koblish (The Despicable Deadpool) comes a pulpy tale of murder, destruction and traffic. 

    DNX # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    THE X-VIRUS UNLEASHED!

    The X-Men and 3K. Each steered by an original heir of Xavier, each with their own vision for the mutant people. Each at one another’s throats. Cyclops and the Chairman both experienced the future of the Age of Revelation and came home with a renewed mission: the X-Men to prevent that future. 3K to own it. While the X-Men seek out the Fantastic Four to help save one of their own, the White Beast begins his plan to unleash the X-Virus in a major populated area! EVOLUTION IS CONTAGIOUS!

    OFIUSA # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    BE CAREFUL WHEN DIVING INTO THE WATERS OF OFIUSA.

    Writer and artist GUILLEM MARCH, well known for his work on Batman, The Joker, and Catwoman, returns as a solo creator after his acclaimed KARMEN in this new, edgy six-part series.

    The romance between the irresistible Marand the young entrepreneur Joan gets off to a flying start. In another timeline, Joan meets the enigmatic Isla on a paradise island. A love triangle in which everyone is hiding something, while a dark secret from the past awaits to be revealed.

    With exquisite artwork that evokes paradise and a story that gradually lays bare the characters’ souls — while also leaving room for fun, seduction, and the search for truth. What happens in Ofiusa stays in Ofiusa.

    ONGOING SERIES

    ABSOLUTE GREEN ARROW # 5

    SOLICIT COPY:

    WHO WILL BE SACRIFICED? At the mercy of Hector Hammond, Black Canary and the Green Arrow Killer finally bear witness to the depraved horrors Hammond has been hiding. But when a horrible sacrifice evens the odds … will Dinah have traded one threat for an even more terrifying danger?

    BATMAN OF TWO WORLDS # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    Matt Fraction’s Dark Knight meets Scott Snyder’s Absolute Batman in this Batman Day 2026 one-shot.

    G.I. JOE # 26

    SOLICIT COPY:

    ROUND TWO: G.I. JOE AND NIGHT FORCE WON’T BACK DOWN! The epic battle between the two teams takes a dangerous turn as a new Joe enters the fight! Can Baroness’s secret mission stop the war?

    TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURLES # 22

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The hunt for the Ujigami door knocker continues! It’s the Hungry Ghost Festival, a time when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is at its thinnest, bringing back both Turtle friend and foe! With Karai and Stockman attempting to raise an army of undead ninja, it’s the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ last chance to close the door before the dead come back for good. Can they do it in time?!

    Trade Paperbacks, Hardcovers, and OGNs

    BATMAN: GARGOYLE OF GOTHAM Deluxe Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    WHEN YOU CASE YOUR OWN SHADOW… IT LEADS YOU INTO THE ABYSS.

    Batman knows intimately even the darkest and most irredeemable streets of Gotham City, but when an all-new rogues gallery of depraved villains emerges from its murky depths, he will come to find that he hardly knows himself. A serial killer is on the loose, and while the murder victims seem random at first, every clue draws Batman closer to the terrifying truth—that they are all connected, not just to each other…but to him. Batman will have to contend with the very nature of evil— including that which lurks inside in the darkest corners of his own heart—to face what’s coming for his city. Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham brings Eisner Award-winning creator Rafael Grampá’s twisted vision of both the Dark Knight and Gotham City to life in this thrilling deluxe edition that will reach its icy black tendrils into the rotting heart of human nature and leave you gasping for breath—and for more!

    Collects Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham #1-4.

    THE DISSIDENTS: AUTOCRATS! VIGILANTES! COMMUNISTS! . . . AND CARTOONISTS! HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    From the award-winning author of My Friend Dahmer and Kent State comes a timely graphic novel about racism, violence, and political turmoil in the early 20th century, when a handful of cartoonists and journalists pushed back against a corrupt administration to defend the rights of free speech

    “WE’VE BEEN HERE BEFORE . . . BUT WE FORGOT.”

    It’s 1916. President Woodrow Wilson―a deeply divisive authoritarian who is also a white supremacist with open contempt for constitutional rights―sits in the Oval Office.

    Racial tensions, unprecedented economic inequality, a groundswell of support for unionization, and the rise of both a reactionary far right militia and a growing radical opposition shake the very foundations of American society. A pandemic is two years away. And the 1900s have only just gotten started.

    GILDED SEVEN vol. 1 TP

    SOLICIT COPY:

    A historical action with a supernatural twist that comes highly recommended from ONE—creator of One Punch Man! Take a trip to an unknown timeline where Abraham Lincoln didn’t die, and the wild west is wilder than ever! From the creator of No Guns Life.

    State trooper Keigo Westwood tracks down the La Llorona gang to Yellowstone National Park. Just as he’s about to arrest their leader, an eruption throws him back to the frontier times in 1865. Law and order have yet to be established, and Keigo finds himself still locked in battle with the six La Llorona members who traveled back in time alongside him. However, Kiego has a powerful ally in the greatest president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln! Throw out your history books and get ready to see the Wildest West!

    INTO THE UNBEING Library Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The entire terrifying journey of four scientists lost within a giant eldritch corpse is collected in this deluxe hardcover graphic novel volume. It’s a cosmic body-horror epic from acclaimed author Zac Thompson and Eisner-winning artist Hayden Sherman!

    Find yourself in its innards.

    A group of climate scientists working in a remote base camp on the Australian outback discover an impossible landform. Led by botanist Hildur Johansson, the team sets out to conduct a routine exploratory mission to map the terrain, record their observations, and try to understand this anomalous landscape. But this is no landscape. This is the Unbeing.

    The team discovers a sprawling eldritch corpse that threatens to upend everything they understand about the natural world. Propelled by hubris and the intoxicating charm of forbidden knowledge, the research team descends into a hostile alien environment allowed to thrive without human interference. The beautiful yet unforgiving landscape hosts strange flora, gorgeous fauna, and dangerous predators lurking in the darkness. 

    Into The Unbeing is a journey centuries in the making, chronicling the many lives who’ve been lost to the seemingly malevolent corpse. As they navigate the sprawling Lovecraftian labyrinth, the climate scientists must form a distrustful and desperate alliance with a mysterious humanoid known only as the Stranger. This incomprehensible Stranger claims to be a nineteenth-century British explorer. It claims to know the way back to the surface. It claims a new world is on its way. Perhaps if you listen closely, you can hear it breathing. But what is the cost of this new world? And who will be left to live in it?

    Into the Unbeing is an adventure into the sublime from the critically acclaimed writer Zac Thompson (Cemetery Kids Don’t Die, Alien: Romulus) and Eisner-winning artist Hayden Sherman (Batman: Dark Patterns, Absolute Wonder Woman). 

    Collects Into the Unbeing Part 1 #1–#4 and Into the Unbeing Part 2 #1–#4.

    Preorders on Final Order Cutoff

    AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE Deluxe Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    R.I.P. Riverdale! Once in a generation, a story so potent, so powerful, so horrifying rises from the grave to redefine the comics medium’s greatest icons. Enter: The first-ever deluxe collection of Afterlife with Archie — collecting the totality of the groundbreaking, cemetery-shaking comics masterpiece from Harvey Award–winning writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Stephen King’s The Stand: American Nightmare) and Eisner Award–winning artist Francesco Francavilla (Batman: The Black Mirror) that first introduced Riverdale’s teenage icons into a merciless world of ritual magic, undead terror, and survival at any cost!

    When a tragic death befalls Jughead Jones’s closest companion, his grief drives him to the doorstep of Sabrina the Teenage Witch… and into the thrall of a dark magic that will soon turn the whole of Riverdale into a ravenous pack of undead zombies fueled by a desire for human flesh. Hunted by the reanimated corpses of their friends and loved ones, can Archie, Betty, Veronica, and the rest of America’s most beloved teenagers battle back by a legion of the dead… and live long enough to stop the entire world from being consumed by the same unholy hunger? Pal vs. pal. Classmate vs. classmate. Living vs. dead. They swore to be friends until the end… but they never expected the end to look quite like this.

    This definitive hardcover collection of the riveting and relentless milestone that the New York Times calls “gruesome [and] masterly” re-presents the entirety of the Afterlife with Archie saga—including the never-before-collected issues #6–10—in an oversized format that also features a complete cover gallery and behind-the-scenes materials on the development of Archie Comics’ first all-out horror epic.

    Collecting Afterlife with Archie #1–10.

    THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN: HALLOWEEN SPECIAL # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    HAPPY SPIDER-WEEN! Treat yourself with tricks in this epic Halloween adventure! The TRICK — Hallows’ Eve tries to pull off her biggest heist yet, and Spider-Man’s gotta stop her before she imperils the ENTIRE 616! The TREAT — a new costume for Spidey?!

    PLUS, WE HAVE SOME SPIDEY SECRETS HIDDEN AWAY IN THIS ISSUE, TOO!

    IN YOUR SKIN TP

    SOLICIT COPY:

    Bollywood body horror collides with erotic obsession as a die-hard fan resolves to replace her retiring screen idol, blurring fantasy and flesh in a dark, intoxicating debut.

    Priyanka is a Bollywood uber-fan who has been obsessed with film star Ayesha Sen since she was a kid — she’s watched her movies over and over, and knows her dances beat for beat. But after a once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet her idol goes awry, and Ayesha announces her impending retirement from movies, Priyanka decides that if Ayesha isn’t going to live the life she’s supposed to, Priyanka would be more than happy to take over for her…

    Aditya Bidikar (The Department of Truth, Blue in Green) and rising star artist Som (Crocodile Black) present a twisted exploration of celebrity culture, identity, and image that’s perfect for fans of The Substance, Perfect Blue, Black Swan and David Cronenberg.

    Collects #1-4.

    MAFALDA Book Two HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    As good a place as any to enter the madcap world of Mafalda and friends, Book Two of Mafalda finds the gang up to new antics. Mafalda heads off on a beach vacation, where she meets a curious stranger: Miguelito, a mop-headed philosopher who happens to live right down the street back at home. Susanita, Manolito, and Felipe, meanwhile, continue to tussle over all matter of issues, romp around the neighborhood, and execute physical feats of great proportions. Only this time, Quino brings everyone together in an alien environment: elementary school.

    Quino’s legendary comic fuses political incisiveness with all sorts of gags and hijinks. Mafalda notes the peculiar effects of consumerism and globalization, the ironies of sexism, and the injustices of poverty. Her clear-sighted antiwar beliefs will inspire a new generation of thinkers and activists. All the while young readers will fall in love with Quino’s drawings which evoke all the humor, irritation, ponderousness, and energy of childhood.

    What did I miss?

    If there are some great comics, collected or in single issues, that you think I should be reading, tell me about them! And if you do try out any of these series, let me know how you liked them, or didn’t. This is a safe space for haters. If you enjoy this service, please share this article on social media or tell someone that you know reads comics about it.

    Divining Comics is brought to you by generous support from the “Best Friends of Divining Comics”: Alex Seubert. Dustin Commet

    Divining Comics is also brought to you by the support of the “Friends of Divining Comics”: Comic Book Herald.

    If you would like to add your name to the list of friends, best friends, or best friends forever, support this work for less than the cost of one cup of coffee a month at patreon.com/diviningcomics. You can also leave a one-time tip/buy my zines at ko-fi.com/spikestonehand. Or, if you can’t afford to support me financially at this time, simply follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and Bluesky and share my posts there.

    #art #books #ComicBooks #comics #DC #dcComics #fantasticFour #marvel #marvelComics #MarvelousMarket #NewComicDay
  4. Marvelous Market: Best New Comics September 16

    Marvel’s X-Men Event Begins

    Hello and welcome to the Marvelous Market, my weekly guide for anyone interested in going to a comic book store today. In addition to a full list of new # 1s and new volume 1s, I’ll be giving you my top 4 recommendations in 4 categories. Like Houston legend Mike Jones rapped, “We’re still tippin’ on four-fours.” I’m going to give you the top four new comics, top four ongoing comics, the top four graphic novels, and the top 4 preorders.

    The work going into this curation is made possible by readers like you. For less than the cost of a cup of coffee a month, you can help make this work possible.

    New Issue # 1s

    ABSOLUTE CASSANDRA CAIN # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    SPINNING OUT FROM ABSOLUTE CATWOMAN COMES THE ABSOLUTE DEMON’S HAND! Years ago, The Joker trained with the League of Assassins, and when he learned all he could, he slaughtered everyone. But out of the wreckage of what was left came Lady Shiva and her daughter, CASSANDRA CAIN. Learn the origin of the Absolute Universe’s most formidable assassin and how her story is one that is intertwined with the world’s greatest thief, Selina Kyle, Catwoman!

    THE BIG SHAKEDOWN # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The Big One, the earthquake to end all earthquakes, has finally struck Los Angeles. The government decides not to rebuild and the city becomes a no man’s land for those that refuse to leave it. But hey, you can’t beat the weather.

    Five years later Ester Blanco, a down on her luck former P.I., is willing to do anything to escape the City of Angels. She believes she’s found her ticket out when a desperate father hires her to solve a missing person’s case in a city where a third of the population is already missing. Instead, the trail of this lost girl leads Ester to uncover a dark web of cults, conspiracy and corruption that threatens every Angeleno that stayed behind.

    THE BIG SHAKEDOWN is a sunbaked LA noir in the vein of Chinatown and The Long Goodbye and set in the post-apocalyptic remains of the most beloved/hated city in the world. From writers Jordan Blum (Minor Threats) Tim Seeley (Local Man) and artist Scott Koblish (The Despicable Deadpool) comes a pulpy tale of murder, destruction and traffic. 

    DNX # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    THE X-VIRUS UNLEASHED!

    The X-Men and 3K. Each steered by an original heir of Xavier, each with their own vision for the mutant people. Each at one another’s throats. Cyclops and the Chairman both experienced the future of the Age of Revelation and came home with a renewed mission: the X-Men to prevent that future. 3K to own it. While the X-Men seek out the Fantastic Four to help save one of their own, the White Beast begins his plan to unleash the X-Virus in a major populated area! EVOLUTION IS CONTAGIOUS!

    OFIUSA # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    BE CAREFUL WHEN DIVING INTO THE WATERS OF OFIUSA.

    Writer and artist GUILLEM MARCH, well known for his work on Batman, The Joker, and Catwoman, returns as a solo creator after his acclaimed KARMEN in this new, edgy six-part series.

    The romance between the irresistible Marand the young entrepreneur Joan gets off to a flying start. In another timeline, Joan meets the enigmatic Isla on a paradise island. A love triangle in which everyone is hiding something, while a dark secret from the past awaits to be revealed.

    With exquisite artwork that evokes paradise and a story that gradually lays bare the characters’ souls — while also leaving room for fun, seduction, and the search for truth. What happens in Ofiusa stays in Ofiusa.

    ONGOING SERIES

    ABSOLUTE GREEN ARROW # 5

    SOLICIT COPY:

    WHO WILL BE SACRIFICED? At the mercy of Hector Hammond, Black Canary and the Green Arrow Killer finally bear witness to the depraved horrors Hammond has been hiding. But when a horrible sacrifice evens the odds … will Dinah have traded one threat for an even more terrifying danger?

    BATMAN OF TWO WORLDS # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    Matt Fraction’s Dark Knight meets Scott Snyder’s Absolute Batman in this Batman Day 2026 one-shot.

    G.I. JOE # 26

    SOLICIT COPY:

    ROUND TWO: G.I. JOE AND NIGHT FORCE WON’T BACK DOWN! The epic battle between the two teams takes a dangerous turn as a new Joe enters the fight! Can Baroness’s secret mission stop the war?

    TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURLES # 22

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The hunt for the Ujigami door knocker continues! It’s the Hungry Ghost Festival, a time when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is at its thinnest, bringing back both Turtle friend and foe! With Karai and Stockman attempting to raise an army of undead ninja, it’s the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ last chance to close the door before the dead come back for good. Can they do it in time?!

    Trade Paperbacks, Hardcovers, and OGNs

    BATMAN: GARGOYLE OF GOTHAM Deluxe Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    WHEN YOU CASE YOUR OWN SHADOW… IT LEADS YOU INTO THE ABYSS.

    Batman knows intimately even the darkest and most irredeemable streets of Gotham City, but when an all-new rogues gallery of depraved villains emerges from its murky depths, he will come to find that he hardly knows himself. A serial killer is on the loose, and while the murder victims seem random at first, every clue draws Batman closer to the terrifying truth—that they are all connected, not just to each other…but to him. Batman will have to contend with the very nature of evil— including that which lurks inside in the darkest corners of his own heart—to face what’s coming for his city. Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham brings Eisner Award-winning creator Rafael Grampá’s twisted vision of both the Dark Knight and Gotham City to life in this thrilling deluxe edition that will reach its icy black tendrils into the rotting heart of human nature and leave you gasping for breath—and for more!

    Collects Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham #1-4.

    THE DISSIDENTS: AUTOCRATS! VIGILANTES! COMMUNISTS! . . . AND CARTOONISTS! HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    From the award-winning author of My Friend Dahmer and Kent State comes a timely graphic novel about racism, violence, and political turmoil in the early 20th century, when a handful of cartoonists and journalists pushed back against a corrupt administration to defend the rights of free speech

    “WE’VE BEEN HERE BEFORE . . . BUT WE FORGOT.”

    It’s 1916. President Woodrow Wilson―a deeply divisive authoritarian who is also a white supremacist with open contempt for constitutional rights―sits in the Oval Office.

    Racial tensions, unprecedented economic inequality, a groundswell of support for unionization, and the rise of both a reactionary far right militia and a growing radical opposition shake the very foundations of American society. A pandemic is two years away. And the 1900s have only just gotten started.

    GILDED SEVEN vol. 1 TP

    SOLICIT COPY:

    A historical action with a supernatural twist that comes highly recommended from ONE—creator of One Punch Man! Take a trip to an unknown timeline where Abraham Lincoln didn’t die, and the wild west is wilder than ever! From the creator of No Guns Life.

    State trooper Keigo Westwood tracks down the La Llorona gang to Yellowstone National Park. Just as he’s about to arrest their leader, an eruption throws him back to the frontier times in 1865. Law and order have yet to be established, and Keigo finds himself still locked in battle with the six La Llorona members who traveled back in time alongside him. However, Kiego has a powerful ally in the greatest president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln! Throw out your history books and get ready to see the Wildest West!

    INTO THE UNBEING Library Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The entire terrifying journey of four scientists lost within a giant eldritch corpse is collected in this deluxe hardcover graphic novel volume. It’s a cosmic body-horror epic from acclaimed author Zac Thompson and Eisner-winning artist Hayden Sherman!

    Find yourself in its innards.

    A group of climate scientists working in a remote base camp on the Australian outback discover an impossible landform. Led by botanist Hildur Johansson, the team sets out to conduct a routine exploratory mission to map the terrain, record their observations, and try to understand this anomalous landscape. But this is no landscape. This is the Unbeing.

    The team discovers a sprawling eldritch corpse that threatens to upend everything they understand about the natural world. Propelled by hubris and the intoxicating charm of forbidden knowledge, the research team descends into a hostile alien environment allowed to thrive without human interference. The beautiful yet unforgiving landscape hosts strange flora, gorgeous fauna, and dangerous predators lurking in the darkness. 

    Into The Unbeing is a journey centuries in the making, chronicling the many lives who’ve been lost to the seemingly malevolent corpse. As they navigate the sprawling Lovecraftian labyrinth, the climate scientists must form a distrustful and desperate alliance with a mysterious humanoid known only as the Stranger. This incomprehensible Stranger claims to be a nineteenth-century British explorer. It claims to know the way back to the surface. It claims a new world is on its way. Perhaps if you listen closely, you can hear it breathing. But what is the cost of this new world? And who will be left to live in it?

    Into the Unbeing is an adventure into the sublime from the critically acclaimed writer Zac Thompson (Cemetery Kids Don’t Die, Alien: Romulus) and Eisner-winning artist Hayden Sherman (Batman: Dark Patterns, Absolute Wonder Woman). 

    Collects Into the Unbeing Part 1 #1–#4 and Into the Unbeing Part 2 #1–#4.

    Preorders on Final Order Cutoff

    AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE Deluxe Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    R.I.P. Riverdale! Once in a generation, a story so potent, so powerful, so horrifying rises from the grave to redefine the comics medium’s greatest icons. Enter: The first-ever deluxe collection of Afterlife with Archie — collecting the totality of the groundbreaking, cemetery-shaking comics masterpiece from Harvey Award–winning writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Stephen King’s The Stand: American Nightmare) and Eisner Award–winning artist Francesco Francavilla (Batman: The Black Mirror) that first introduced Riverdale’s teenage icons into a merciless world of ritual magic, undead terror, and survival at any cost!

    When a tragic death befalls Jughead Jones’s closest companion, his grief drives him to the doorstep of Sabrina the Teenage Witch… and into the thrall of a dark magic that will soon turn the whole of Riverdale into a ravenous pack of undead zombies fueled by a desire for human flesh. Hunted by the reanimated corpses of their friends and loved ones, can Archie, Betty, Veronica, and the rest of America’s most beloved teenagers battle back by a legion of the dead… and live long enough to stop the entire world from being consumed by the same unholy hunger? Pal vs. pal. Classmate vs. classmate. Living vs. dead. They swore to be friends until the end… but they never expected the end to look quite like this.

    This definitive hardcover collection of the riveting and relentless milestone that the New York Times calls “gruesome [and] masterly” re-presents the entirety of the Afterlife with Archie saga—including the never-before-collected issues #6–10—in an oversized format that also features a complete cover gallery and behind-the-scenes materials on the development of Archie Comics’ first all-out horror epic.

    Collecting Afterlife with Archie #1–10.

    THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN: HALLOWEEN SPECIAL # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    HAPPY SPIDER-WEEN! Treat yourself with tricks in this epic Halloween adventure! The TRICK — Hallows’ Eve tries to pull off her biggest heist yet, and Spider-Man’s gotta stop her before she imperils the ENTIRE 616! The TREAT — a new costume for Spidey?!

    PLUS, WE HAVE SOME SPIDEY SECRETS HIDDEN AWAY IN THIS ISSUE, TOO!

    IN YOUR SKIN TP

    SOLICIT COPY:

    Bollywood body horror collides with erotic obsession as a die-hard fan resolves to replace her retiring screen idol, blurring fantasy and flesh in a dark, intoxicating debut.

    Priyanka is a Bollywood uber-fan who has been obsessed with film star Ayesha Sen since she was a kid — she’s watched her movies over and over, and knows her dances beat for beat. But after a once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet her idol goes awry, and Ayesha announces her impending retirement from movies, Priyanka decides that if Ayesha isn’t going to live the life she’s supposed to, Priyanka would be more than happy to take over for her…

    Aditya Bidikar (The Department of Truth, Blue in Green) and rising star artist Som (Crocodile Black) present a twisted exploration of celebrity culture, identity, and image that’s perfect for fans of The Substance, Perfect Blue, Black Swan and David Cronenberg.

    Collects #1-4.

    MAFALDA Book Two HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    As good a place as any to enter the madcap world of Mafalda and friends, Book Two of Mafalda finds the gang up to new antics. Mafalda heads off on a beach vacation, where she meets a curious stranger: Miguelito, a mop-headed philosopher who happens to live right down the street back at home. Susanita, Manolito, and Felipe, meanwhile, continue to tussle over all matter of issues, romp around the neighborhood, and execute physical feats of great proportions. Only this time, Quino brings everyone together in an alien environment: elementary school.

    Quino’s legendary comic fuses political incisiveness with all sorts of gags and hijinks. Mafalda notes the peculiar effects of consumerism and globalization, the ironies of sexism, and the injustices of poverty. Her clear-sighted antiwar beliefs will inspire a new generation of thinkers and activists. All the while young readers will fall in love with Quino’s drawings which evoke all the humor, irritation, ponderousness, and energy of childhood.

    What did I miss?

    If there are some great comics, collected or in single issues, that you think I should be reading, tell me about them! And if you do try out any of these series, let me know how you liked them, or didn’t. This is a safe space for haters. If you enjoy this service, please share this article on social media or tell someone that you know reads comics about it.

    Divining Comics is brought to you by generous support from the “Best Friends of Divining Comics”: Alex Seubert. Dustin Commet

    Divining Comics is also brought to you by the support of the “Friends of Divining Comics”: Comic Book Herald.

    If you would like to add your name to the list of friends, best friends, or best friends forever, support this work for less than the cost of one cup of coffee a month at patreon.com/diviningcomics. You can also leave a one-time tip/buy my zines at ko-fi.com/spikestonehand. Or, if you can’t afford to support me financially at this time, simply follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and Bluesky and share my posts there.

    #art #books #ComicBooks #comics #DC #dcComics #fantasticFour #marvel #marvelComics #MarvelousMarket #NewComicDay
  5. Marvelous Market: Best New Comics September 16

    Marvel’s X-Men Event Begins

    Hello and welcome to the Marvelous Market, my weekly guide for anyone interested in going to a comic book store today. In addition to a full list of new # 1s and new volume 1s, I’ll be giving you my top 4 recommendations in 4 categories. Like Houston legend Mike Jones rapped, “We’re still tippin’ on four-fours.” I’m going to give you the top four new comics, top four ongoing comics, the top four graphic novels, and the top 4 preorders.

    The work going into this curation is made possible by readers like you. For less than the cost of a cup of coffee a month, you can help make this work possible.

    New Issue # 1s

    ABSOLUTE CASSANDRA CAIN # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    SPINNING OUT FROM ABSOLUTE CATWOMAN COMES THE ABSOLUTE DEMON’S HAND! Years ago, The Joker trained with the League of Assassins, and when he learned all he could, he slaughtered everyone. But out of the wreckage of what was left came Lady Shiva and her daughter, CASSANDRA CAIN. Learn the origin of the Absolute Universe’s most formidable assassin and how her story is one that is intertwined with the world’s greatest thief, Selina Kyle, Catwoman!

    THE BIG SHAKEDOWN # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The Big One, the earthquake to end all earthquakes, has finally struck Los Angeles. The government decides not to rebuild and the city becomes a no man’s land for those that refuse to leave it. But hey, you can’t beat the weather.

    Five years later Ester Blanco, a down on her luck former P.I., is willing to do anything to escape the City of Angels. She believes she’s found her ticket out when a desperate father hires her to solve a missing person’s case in a city where a third of the population is already missing. Instead, the trail of this lost girl leads Ester to uncover a dark web of cults, conspiracy and corruption that threatens every Angeleno that stayed behind.

    THE BIG SHAKEDOWN is a sunbaked LA noir in the vein of Chinatown and The Long Goodbye and set in the post-apocalyptic remains of the most beloved/hated city in the world. From writers Jordan Blum (Minor Threats) Tim Seeley (Local Man) and artist Scott Koblish (The Despicable Deadpool) comes a pulpy tale of murder, destruction and traffic. 

    DNX # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    THE X-VIRUS UNLEASHED!

    The X-Men and 3K. Each steered by an original heir of Xavier, each with their own vision for the mutant people. Each at one another’s throats. Cyclops and the Chairman both experienced the future of the Age of Revelation and came home with a renewed mission: the X-Men to prevent that future. 3K to own it. While the X-Men seek out the Fantastic Four to help save one of their own, the White Beast begins his plan to unleash the X-Virus in a major populated area! EVOLUTION IS CONTAGIOUS!

    OFIUSA # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    BE CAREFUL WHEN DIVING INTO THE WATERS OF OFIUSA.

    Writer and artist GUILLEM MARCH, well known for his work on Batman, The Joker, and Catwoman, returns as a solo creator after his acclaimed KARMEN in this new, edgy six-part series.

    The romance between the irresistible Marand the young entrepreneur Joan gets off to a flying start. In another timeline, Joan meets the enigmatic Isla on a paradise island. A love triangle in which everyone is hiding something, while a dark secret from the past awaits to be revealed.

    With exquisite artwork that evokes paradise and a story that gradually lays bare the characters’ souls — while also leaving room for fun, seduction, and the search for truth. What happens in Ofiusa stays in Ofiusa.

    ONGOING SERIES

    ABSOLUTE GREEN ARROW # 5

    SOLICIT COPY:

    WHO WILL BE SACRIFICED? At the mercy of Hector Hammond, Black Canary and the Green Arrow Killer finally bear witness to the depraved horrors Hammond has been hiding. But when a horrible sacrifice evens the odds … will Dinah have traded one threat for an even more terrifying danger?

    BATMAN OF TWO WORLDS # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    Matt Fraction’s Dark Knight meets Scott Snyder’s Absolute Batman in this Batman Day 2026 one-shot.

    G.I. JOE # 26

    SOLICIT COPY:

    ROUND TWO: G.I. JOE AND NIGHT FORCE WON’T BACK DOWN! The epic battle between the two teams takes a dangerous turn as a new Joe enters the fight! Can Baroness’s secret mission stop the war?

    TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURLES # 22

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The hunt for the Ujigami door knocker continues! It’s the Hungry Ghost Festival, a time when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is at its thinnest, bringing back both Turtle friend and foe! With Karai and Stockman attempting to raise an army of undead ninja, it’s the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ last chance to close the door before the dead come back for good. Can they do it in time?!

    Trade Paperbacks, Hardcovers, and OGNs

    BATMAN: GARGOYLE OF GOTHAM Deluxe Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    WHEN YOU CASE YOUR OWN SHADOW… IT LEADS YOU INTO THE ABYSS.

    Batman knows intimately even the darkest and most irredeemable streets of Gotham City, but when an all-new rogues gallery of depraved villains emerges from its murky depths, he will come to find that he hardly knows himself. A serial killer is on the loose, and while the murder victims seem random at first, every clue draws Batman closer to the terrifying truth—that they are all connected, not just to each other…but to him. Batman will have to contend with the very nature of evil— including that which lurks inside in the darkest corners of his own heart—to face what’s coming for his city. Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham brings Eisner Award-winning creator Rafael Grampá’s twisted vision of both the Dark Knight and Gotham City to life in this thrilling deluxe edition that will reach its icy black tendrils into the rotting heart of human nature and leave you gasping for breath—and for more!

    Collects Batman: Gargoyle of Gotham #1-4.

    THE DISSIDENTS: AUTOCRATS! VIGILANTES! COMMUNISTS! . . . AND CARTOONISTS! HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    From the award-winning author of My Friend Dahmer and Kent State comes a timely graphic novel about racism, violence, and political turmoil in the early 20th century, when a handful of cartoonists and journalists pushed back against a corrupt administration to defend the rights of free speech

    “WE’VE BEEN HERE BEFORE . . . BUT WE FORGOT.”

    It’s 1916. President Woodrow Wilson―a deeply divisive authoritarian who is also a white supremacist with open contempt for constitutional rights―sits in the Oval Office.

    Racial tensions, unprecedented economic inequality, a groundswell of support for unionization, and the rise of both a reactionary far right militia and a growing radical opposition shake the very foundations of American society. A pandemic is two years away. And the 1900s have only just gotten started.

    GILDED SEVEN vol. 1 TP

    SOLICIT COPY:

    A historical action with a supernatural twist that comes highly recommended from ONE—creator of One Punch Man! Take a trip to an unknown timeline where Abraham Lincoln didn’t die, and the wild west is wilder than ever! From the creator of No Guns Life.

    State trooper Keigo Westwood tracks down the La Llorona gang to Yellowstone National Park. Just as he’s about to arrest their leader, an eruption throws him back to the frontier times in 1865. Law and order have yet to be established, and Keigo finds himself still locked in battle with the six La Llorona members who traveled back in time alongside him. However, Kiego has a powerful ally in the greatest president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln! Throw out your history books and get ready to see the Wildest West!

    INTO THE UNBEING Library Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    The entire terrifying journey of four scientists lost within a giant eldritch corpse is collected in this deluxe hardcover graphic novel volume. It’s a cosmic body-horror epic from acclaimed author Zac Thompson and Eisner-winning artist Hayden Sherman!

    Find yourself in its innards.

    A group of climate scientists working in a remote base camp on the Australian outback discover an impossible landform. Led by botanist Hildur Johansson, the team sets out to conduct a routine exploratory mission to map the terrain, record their observations, and try to understand this anomalous landscape. But this is no landscape. This is the Unbeing.

    The team discovers a sprawling eldritch corpse that threatens to upend everything they understand about the natural world. Propelled by hubris and the intoxicating charm of forbidden knowledge, the research team descends into a hostile alien environment allowed to thrive without human interference. The beautiful yet unforgiving landscape hosts strange flora, gorgeous fauna, and dangerous predators lurking in the darkness. 

    Into The Unbeing is a journey centuries in the making, chronicling the many lives who’ve been lost to the seemingly malevolent corpse. As they navigate the sprawling Lovecraftian labyrinth, the climate scientists must form a distrustful and desperate alliance with a mysterious humanoid known only as the Stranger. This incomprehensible Stranger claims to be a nineteenth-century British explorer. It claims to know the way back to the surface. It claims a new world is on its way. Perhaps if you listen closely, you can hear it breathing. But what is the cost of this new world? And who will be left to live in it?

    Into the Unbeing is an adventure into the sublime from the critically acclaimed writer Zac Thompson (Cemetery Kids Don’t Die, Alien: Romulus) and Eisner-winning artist Hayden Sherman (Batman: Dark Patterns, Absolute Wonder Woman). 

    Collects Into the Unbeing Part 1 #1–#4 and Into the Unbeing Part 2 #1–#4.

    Preorders on Final Order Cutoff

    AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE Deluxe Edition HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    R.I.P. Riverdale! Once in a generation, a story so potent, so powerful, so horrifying rises from the grave to redefine the comics medium’s greatest icons. Enter: The first-ever deluxe collection of Afterlife with Archie — collecting the totality of the groundbreaking, cemetery-shaking comics masterpiece from Harvey Award–winning writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Stephen King’s The Stand: American Nightmare) and Eisner Award–winning artist Francesco Francavilla (Batman: The Black Mirror) that first introduced Riverdale’s teenage icons into a merciless world of ritual magic, undead terror, and survival at any cost!

    When a tragic death befalls Jughead Jones’s closest companion, his grief drives him to the doorstep of Sabrina the Teenage Witch… and into the thrall of a dark magic that will soon turn the whole of Riverdale into a ravenous pack of undead zombies fueled by a desire for human flesh. Hunted by the reanimated corpses of their friends and loved ones, can Archie, Betty, Veronica, and the rest of America’s most beloved teenagers battle back by a legion of the dead… and live long enough to stop the entire world from being consumed by the same unholy hunger? Pal vs. pal. Classmate vs. classmate. Living vs. dead. They swore to be friends until the end… but they never expected the end to look quite like this.

    This definitive hardcover collection of the riveting and relentless milestone that the New York Times calls “gruesome [and] masterly” re-presents the entirety of the Afterlife with Archie saga—including the never-before-collected issues #6–10—in an oversized format that also features a complete cover gallery and behind-the-scenes materials on the development of Archie Comics’ first all-out horror epic.

    Collecting Afterlife with Archie #1–10.

    THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN: HALLOWEEN SPECIAL # 1

    SOLICIT COPY:

    HAPPY SPIDER-WEEN! Treat yourself with tricks in this epic Halloween adventure! The TRICK — Hallows’ Eve tries to pull off her biggest heist yet, and Spider-Man’s gotta stop her before she imperils the ENTIRE 616! The TREAT — a new costume for Spidey?!

    PLUS, WE HAVE SOME SPIDEY SECRETS HIDDEN AWAY IN THIS ISSUE, TOO!

    IN YOUR SKIN TP

    SOLICIT COPY:

    Bollywood body horror collides with erotic obsession as a die-hard fan resolves to replace her retiring screen idol, blurring fantasy and flesh in a dark, intoxicating debut.

    Priyanka is a Bollywood uber-fan who has been obsessed with film star Ayesha Sen since she was a kid — she’s watched her movies over and over, and knows her dances beat for beat. But after a once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet her idol goes awry, and Ayesha announces her impending retirement from movies, Priyanka decides that if Ayesha isn’t going to live the life she’s supposed to, Priyanka would be more than happy to take over for her…

    Aditya Bidikar (The Department of Truth, Blue in Green) and rising star artist Som (Crocodile Black) present a twisted exploration of celebrity culture, identity, and image that’s perfect for fans of The Substance, Perfect Blue, Black Swan and David Cronenberg.

    Collects #1-4.

    MAFALDA Book Two HC

    SOLICIT COPY:

    As good a place as any to enter the madcap world of Mafalda and friends, Book Two of Mafalda finds the gang up to new antics. Mafalda heads off on a beach vacation, where she meets a curious stranger: Miguelito, a mop-headed philosopher who happens to live right down the street back at home. Susanita, Manolito, and Felipe, meanwhile, continue to tussle over all matter of issues, romp around the neighborhood, and execute physical feats of great proportions. Only this time, Quino brings everyone together in an alien environment: elementary school.

    Quino’s legendary comic fuses political incisiveness with all sorts of gags and hijinks. Mafalda notes the peculiar effects of consumerism and globalization, the ironies of sexism, and the injustices of poverty. Her clear-sighted antiwar beliefs will inspire a new generation of thinkers and activists. All the while young readers will fall in love with Quino’s drawings which evoke all the humor, irritation, ponderousness, and energy of childhood.

    What did I miss?

    If there are some great comics, collected or in single issues, that you think I should be reading, tell me about them! And if you do try out any of these series, let me know how you liked them, or didn’t. This is a safe space for haters. If you enjoy this service, please share this article on social media or tell someone that you know reads comics about it.

    Divining Comics is brought to you by generous support from the “Best Friends of Divining Comics”: Alex Seubert. Dustin Commet

    Divining Comics is also brought to you by the support of the “Friends of Divining Comics”: Comic Book Herald.

    If you would like to add your name to the list of friends, best friends, or best friends forever, support this work for less than the cost of one cup of coffee a month at patreon.com/diviningcomics. You can also leave a one-time tip/buy my zines at ko-fi.com/spikestonehand. Or, if you can’t afford to support me financially at this time, simply follow me on Twitter, Instagram, and Bluesky and share my posts there.

    #art #books #ComicBooks #comics #DC #dcComics #fantasticFour #marvel #marvelComics #MarvelousMarket #NewComicDay
  6. ‘Fantastic Four: First Foes’ finale introduces the Wizard and Frightful Four

    ‘Fantastic Four: First Foes – The Wizard’ #1 arrives this December with a cover by Phil Noto.
    aiptcomics.com/2026/09/14/fant

    #FantasticFour #Marvel

  7. ‘Fantastic Four: First Foes’ finale introduces the Wizard and Frightful Four

    ‘Fantastic Four: First Foes – The Wizard’ #1 arrives this December with a cover by Phil Noto.
    aiptcomics.com/2026/09/14/fant

    #FantasticFour #Marvel

  8. ‘Fantastic Four: First Foes’ finale introduces the Wizard and Frightful Four

    ‘Fantastic Four: First Foes – The Wizard’ #1 arrives this December with a cover by Phil Noto.
    aiptcomics.com/2026/09/14/fant

    #FantasticFour #Marvel

  9. ‘Fantastic Four: First Foes’ finale introduces the Wizard and Frightful Four

    ‘Fantastic Four: First Foes – The Wizard’ #1 arrives this December with a cover by Phil Noto.
    aiptcomics.com/2026/09/14/fant

    #FantasticFour #Marvel

  10. Miles Teller Blames ‘Fantastic Four’ Flop on ‘1 Person Who F–ked Up’

    It’s been 10 years since Fantastic Four flopped, but its box-office failure still smarts for star Miles Teller.…
    #NewsBeep #News #Movies #Entertainment #FantasticFour #JoshTrank #MilesTellar #UK #UnitedKingdom
    newsbeep.com/uk/263072/

  11. Miles Teller Blames ‘Fantastic Four’ Flop on ‘1 Person Who F–ked Up’

    It’s been 10 years since Fantastic Four flopped, but its box-office failure still smarts for star Miles Teller.…
    #NewsBeep #News #US #USA #UnitedStates #UnitedStatesOfAmerica #Entertainment #FantasticFour #JoshTrank #MilesTellar
    newsbeep.com/us/291768/

  12. Miles Teller Blames ‘Fantastic Four’ Flop on ‘1 Person Who F–ked Up’

    It’s been 10 years since Fantastic Four flopped, but its box-office failure still smarts for star Miles Teller.…
    #NewsBeep #News #US #USA #UnitedStates #UnitedStatesOfAmerica #Entertainment #FantasticFour #JoshTrank #MilesTellar
    newsbeep.com/us/291768/

  13. More of a vintage Casio guy myself. But exciting to think kids might get their first non-smartwatch because of the movie tie-in.

    Casio G-SHOCK & Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps ⌚🍿 🇬🇧

    "H.E.R.B.I.E. is putting our watches to the test 🔬🤖
    💥 Shock-tested, 🔥 heat-blasted, ❄ frozen, ⚡ zapped - Made to endure & Ready 4 Launch"

    youtube.com/watch?v=6jHiTpivW0g

    #Casio #CasioCult #WristCheck #Wristwatch #Movies #AnaDigi #GShock #FantasticFour #MarvelComics #MovieTieIn #CrossPromotion