Rachel Rising No. 1

Abstract Studio. Art and story by Terry Moore.

Do I really need to write an intro this week? OK, how about: "I read some new comics and here's what I thought"? Does that work? Onward:

Rachel Rising No. 1: I complain about first issues all the time, saying that creators nowadays don't know how to set things up in a way that makes readers want to return for a second helping. Well, writer/artist Terry Moore has put together a great package with the debut issue of his new supernatural thriller Rachel Rising. Moore presents us with just enough to (slightly) understand the lead character's world — and be interested in what happens to her next. Plus, the art is some of the best that Moore has ever put to paper. I'll definitely come back for the second issue.

30 Days of Night: Night, Again No. 4: As a comic book reader, sometimes you wonder how certain projects ever see the light of day. That sentiment comes to mind after checking out a limited series as awful as 30 Days of Night: Night, Again. To be honest, I'm surprised at how bad this book is — especially seeing as how two talented creators (writer Joe Lansdale and artist Sam Kieth) are the minds behind the title. But, ultimately, this comic is built on the foundation of an amazingly stupid premise, so there's just no saving it. Oh, and I would also like to add that Kieth seems to have phoned in the art on this thing; the drawings are so sloppy in some panels, it looks like a 10-year-old kid banged them out. Please avoid this book.

The Punisher No. 1: When I heard that writer Greg Rucka was taking over the creative reins of the relaunched Punisher monthly comic, I just knew it was a perfect fit. I mean, Rucka is known for helming gritty books like Stumptown and Queen and Country — so him on Frank Castle just made sense. So, after reading the first issue, I'm happy to say I was right to get excited. This is one great comic — everything a Punisher comic should be. Buy it.

The Infinite No. 1: Call me a Robert Kirkman completist, but I just had to pick up the first issue of the new sci-fi/time travel series he's doing with artist Rob Liefeld. The verdict? Well, Liefeld still is not a great artist — at least in the sense of understanding anatomy or perspective or even gravity — but the guy's work has energy. You can see his enthusiasm jumping off the page. The story is so-so. Hey, what can I say ... it's fun. Pick it up.

Reviewed materials provided by Heroes Aren't Hard to Find: www.heroesonline.com.

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