Comic book reviews are in for this week’s most popular releases, showcasing an exciting lineup of heroes, villains, and universe-shaking stories. From the cosmic power of Absolute Green Lantern #14 and Absolute Superman #19 to the mythic depth of Adventures of Superman: Book of El #8, this week delivers must-read issues for fans. Spider-Man swings back in Amazing Spider-Man #28, while Batman #9 and Daredevil #2 continue gritty action. Fantastic Four #10 Vol 8, If Destruction Be Our Lot #1, and Poison Ivy #44 round out a diverse set of standout comics worth reading.
1. Absolute Green Lantern #14
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Writer: Al Ewing
- Artist: Sid Kotian
- Cover Artist: Jahnoy Lindsay
- Official Summary: IN SPACE, NO ONE CAN HEAR YOU SCREAM! Tomar Re and Jo Mullein make their way out into the icy cold depths of space, ready to take the fight directly to Mogo and the Black Stars. But what they find out there might be more than they are ready for!
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: Taking the #1 spot on our must-read pull list is Absolute Green Lantern #14. Tomar Re and Jo Mullein venture into space to confront Mogo and the Black Stars, discovering unexpected challenges. Al Ewing’s writing skillfully unveils character complexities, particularly Tomar’s dark trajectory, making readers grapple with conflicting emotions. This issue is praised for its striking art and engaging storytelling, blending drama and action. While the lore may be intricate, it’s deemed essential reading for fans, showcasing Ewing’s bold approach to character development and high-stakes narrative within the Absolute Universe.
Buy Absolute Green Lantern 14 on Amazon
2. Absolute Superman #19
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Writer: Jason Aaron
- Artist: Rafa Sandoval, Ulises Arreola
- Cover Artist: Rafa Sandoval, Ulises Arreola
- Official Summary: KING SHAZAM IS HERE TO SHATTER THE ABSOLUTE UNIVERSE! King Shazam has risen with a power unlike anything Superman has faced before. What connection does he have to Brainiac and the mysterious Father Box? Plus, another classic character has made their Absolute debut, though it remains to be seen if they’re a friend or foe of the Man of Steel…
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: Also hitting shelves this week is Absolute Superman #19. Absolute Superman #19 introduces King Shazam, presenting him as a formidable opponent with powers surpassing Superman’s. The issue hints at connections with Brainiac and Father Box while unveiling new characters whose loyalties remain uncertain. With intense action and stunning artwork by Sandoval and Arreola, the issue captures the chaotic battle atmosphere. The narrative intertwines real-world themes with Superman’s quest for freedom, making it a must-read. John Henry Irons also plays a vital role, suggesting that Superman may need allies to face King Shazam. This issue is a thrilling, explosive addition to the series that expands its universe significantly.
Buy Absolute Superman 19 on Amazon
3. Adventures of Superman: Book of El #8
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Writer: Cian Tormey, Phillip Kennedy Johnson
- Artist: Cian Tormey, Matt Herms
- Cover Artist: Alex Guimarães, Alex Guimarães, Scott Godlewski
- Official Summary: Superman will always help someone in need, but since he was thrown into the future, his priority has been to rescue Otho and Osul -Ra. The Valkyries of Phaelosia have offered him a chance to reunite with his daughter, but will that give him time to save his son? What sacrifices are necessary to prevent Kryl- Ux from rewriting reality? And Ronan Kent’s reliance on Brainiac finally comes to light!
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $3.99
Review: Another notable release is Adventures of Superman: Book of El #8. Superman’s priority, after being thrown into the future, is to rescue Otho and Osul-Ra while contending with the Valkyries of Phaelosia, who offer a chance to reunite with his daughter, raising questions about the time to save his son. The stakes involve preventing Kryl-Ux from rewriting reality, with Ronan Kent’s dependence on Brainiac revealed. This narrative is celebrated as a fresh and pivotal Superman story, contributing to the ongoing development of Superman’s legacy in Adventures Of Superman: Book Of El #8, showcasing rich world-building and an engaging tale from PKJ in the final issues of the series.
Buy Adventures of Superman: Book of El 8 on Amazon
4. Amazing Spider-Man #28
- Publisher: Marvel Comics
- Writer: Cian Tormey, Phillip Kennedy Johnson
- Artist: Cian Tormey, Matt Herms
- Cover Artist: Alex Guimarães
- Official Summary: SPIDER-MAN’s buried in unfinished business after his battle with Torment, Venom, and Carnage, and his long absence from Earth. Get his life back together? Later. Damage control at work? Not now. Time-traveling magical threat to all of space and time? Go, Spidey, go!
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: One more key issue is Amazing Spider-Man #28. SPIDER-MAN faces unresolved issues following his battles and return from absence, yet a new time-traveling threat demands his attention. This issue serves as an excellent entry point for new or returning readers, offering a great blend of storytelling and exceptional artwork. As the first post-Death Spiral crossover issue, it effectively re-establishes a sense of normalcy while keeping the narrative engaging. Joe Kelly expertly navigates Peter Parker’s chaotic life, balancing superhero obligations with personal challenges, and introduces intriguing time paradox elements without sacrificing character depth. Although it lacks a major conflict, it remains a focused, character-driven chapter that advances the overarching storyline.
Buy Amazing Spider-Man 28 on Amazon
5. Batman #9
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Writer: Cian Tormey, Phillip Kennedy Johnson
- Artist: Cian Tormey, Matt Herms
- Cover Artist: Alex Guimarães, Alex Guimarães, Scott Godlewski
- Official Summary: THE GCPD LAUNCHES AN ALL-OUT ASSAULT ON THE BAT-FAMILY! After making a sinister deal with Mayor Isley, Commissioner Vandal Savage initiates “Operation Peregrine”, sending his brutal TUCO squads across Gotham City on a singular mission: bring in the Batman! Batman and his team must destroy and abandon their hideouts, safeguard their data, and escape the long arm of the law… but not everyone will make it safely through the night!
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: Another highlight this week is Batman #9. The GCPD, under Commissioner Vandal Savage, launches “Operation Peregrine” against the Bat-family, forcing Batman to abandon hideouts and safeguard their data. Matt Fraction’s writing showcases the evolving dynamics between Batman and Damian, juxtaposing personal conflicts with action-packed storytelling. Despite familiar themes, Fraction refreshes Batman’s world, emphasizing the Bat-family’s teamwork. The art by Sook adds a visually captivating layer. The issue ends with intriguing cliffhangers, offering a mysterious and intense narrative reminiscent of high-stakes shows like 24. Overall, it’s a compelling read despite minor flaws.
6. Daredevil #2
- Publisher: Marvel Comics
- Writer: Cian Tormey, Phillip Kennedy Johnson
- Artist: Cian Tormey, Matt Herms
- Cover Artist: Alex Guimarães, Alex Guimarães, Scott Godlewski
- Official Summary: A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH! MATT MURDOCK, once a noted attorney, now goes by a new title: college professor! But when the mysterious, future-seeing villain OMEN targets Matt himself, it’s DAREDEVIL who’ll be taught a brutal lesson: When your enemy already knows what’s coming, every choice is a matter of life and death!
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: Following the last entry is Daredevil #2. Matt Murdock, now a college professor, faces the villain Omen, who can foresee the future. This second issue of Daredevil portrays Murdock as he confronts dire choices, raising the stakes of each decision. The creative team successfully expands the story’s mystery while maintaining the character’s legacy over six decades. Omen’s visions manifest with rising body counts, and the horror theme is effectively emphasized. The art complements the narrative as Murdock grapples with his own turmoil, continuing to intrigue fans of the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen.
7. Fantastic Four #10 Vol 8
- Publisher: Marvel Comics
- Writer: Cian Tormey, Phillip Kennedy Johnson
- Artist: Cian Tormey, Matt Herms
- Cover Artist: Alex Guimarães, Alex Guimarães, Scott Godlewski
- Official Summary: The Invincible Woman has made it to Earth, which is already fending off an invasion it can’t win. If humanity doesn’t win this fight, it won’t win any of them ever again. There’s still the tiniest sliver of hope — if the Fantastic Four and S.H.I.E.L.D. can work together. But will it even be enough? And if the Invincible Woman can best even Susan Storm, then who can stand against her malice? Will Earth survive? Will Galactus? And if they do — at what cost? The big finale of the Invincible Woman arc — it all ends here with a bang!
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $3.99
Review: Another Wednesday arrival is Fantastic Four #10 Vol 8. The Invincible Woman arc is a standout story in the Fantastic Four series, skillfully incorporating other heroes to combat an alternate universe Sue. It emphasizes Sue’s true power of restraint rather than her cosmic abilities. The series is entertaining, with a talented creative team, and while the ending is somewhat predictable, it remains one of Marvel’s most thrilling offerings. Each issue combines cosmic themes with family dynamics, showcasing why the Fantastic Four is revered as Marvel’s greatest team, enhanced by striking visuals from the art team.
Buy Fantastic Four 10 Vol 8 on Amazon
8. If Destruction Be Our Lot #1
- Publisher: Image Comics
- Writer: Cian Tormey, Phillip Kennedy Johnson
- Artist: Cian Tormey, Matt Herms
- Cover Artist: Alex Guimarães, Alex Guimarães, Scott Godlewski
- Official Summary: Humanity is extinct, and all that remains are the robots who once helped us. The robots that once helped us are happier now, doing their work without human interference. But not Abe. He believes there must be something more out there. After nearly getting killed, he’s determined to wander the Earth until he finds it — or gets recycled trying. Brilliant artist ANDY MACDONALD (Doctor Strange, Wonder Woman), and adequate writers MARK ELIJAH ROSENBERG (Approaching the Unknown, Year Million) and MATTHEW ROSENBERG (WE’RE TAKING EVERYONE DOWN WITH US, 4 Kids Walk Into A Bank) bring you an ongoing sci-fi adventure about finding purpose, holding onto hope, and really lonely robots.
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: Eighth is If Destruction Be Our Lot #1. Humanity is extinct, leaving behind robots who once aided us. Among them is Abe, who seeks purpose in a post-apocalyptic world. Created by Andy MacDonald and writers Matthew and Mark Elijah Rosenberg, “If Destruction Be Our Lot” explores the themes of hope and fulfillment through the lens of lonely robots. The comic’s strong narrative, engaging characters, and detailed artwork create a relatable yet profound experience, reminiscent of Philip K. Dick’s and Ray Bradbury’s works. This first issue is praised as a must-read that captures a unique angle on artificial intelligence and is highly recommended for its compelling content and visuals.
Buy If Destruction Be Our Lot 1 on Amazon
9. Poison Ivy #44
- Publisher: DC Comics
- Writer: G. Willow Wilson
- Artist: Arif Prianto, Jaime Infante
- Cover Artist: Jessica Fong
- Official Summary: BAD PRESS! Gotham City begins to turn on its new mayor as some less-than-wholesome things about her are brought to light. So what’s a super-powered, super-villain mayor to do in a time like this? Well, let’s just say it’s not completely legal. Meanwhile, something is alive in Robinson Park — something very, very big.
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $3.99
Review: Continuing the stack is Poison Ivy #44. Gotham City’s new mayor faces backlash as her questionable actions come to light. As her power wanes, an unknown threat looms in Robinson Park, hinting at significant changes for her character. The narrative explores the challenges of navigating a corrupt political system and the consequences of abusing governmental power. Ivy’s conflict with the Parliament of Trees adds depth, though the main plot risks repetitiveness as it may lead her back to destructive tendencies. The story reflects intriguing character development and political commentary.
10. Speed Racer #8
- Publisher: Mad Cave Studios
- Writer: David Pepose, Davide Tinto
- Artist: Davide Tinto
- Cover Artist: Alessio Zonno
- Official Summary: At a black-tie gala, Speed Racer’s night of romance turns explosive when gangster Cruncher Block crashes the party with the monstrous Great Mammoth Car and takes Trixie hostage. As heat-seeking missiles fly and an armored tank barrels through everything in its path, Speed and Racer X launch a desperate rescue that proves just how far Speed will go for the woman he loves. Action, spectacle, and a long-teased romance collide!
- On Sale: December 30, 1899
- Price: $4.99
Review: Ending our weekly breakdown is Speed Racer #8. At a black-tie gala, Speed Racer’s romantic evening becomes chaotic when gangster Cruncher Block arrives with the Great Mammoth Car and takes Trixie hostage. Amid flying missiles and an armored tank, Speed and Racer X engage in a daring rescue, showcasing Speed’s dedication to Trixie. The issue blends action, humor, and romance, making it a standout in the series. Tinto’s stunning visuals enhance the exhilarating storyline, confirming that Speed Racer remains an exciting, revitalized classic. This comic is a must-read for fans!
What did you think of this week’s picks? Drop your thoughts in the comments—did your favorite make the list, or is there a hidden gem we missed? Join the conversation with fellow comic fans and let us know your top reads. If you enjoyed this guide, share it on your favorite social platforms to keep the discussion going and help other readers discover the best comic books of the week.
