
Review: X-O Manowar: Unconquered #2
“This issue builds on everything from issue one. There’s tension, a good emotional core and art with a great distinct style. This is a solid continuation of the X-O legend so far.”
“This issue builds on everything from issue one. There’s tension, a good emotional core and art with a great distinct style. This is a solid continuation of the X-O legend so far.”
“This is a solid take on the character and one that holds a lot of potential. It’s drawing on some of the classic X-O history and tropes and very much understands both those things. I’m looking forward to more and hopeful of what we’ll see in future issues.”
February 2023 marked the 30th anniversary of one of Valiant’s most enduring and popular characters, the nanite infused programmable killer turned anti-hero Bloodshot! He’s a favourite here at Bigger Than Capes, so we wanted to take some time out to shine a spotlight on the character and draw attention to some of his greatest hits.
Book of Shadows has been a decent team up book. The conclusion worked for me. It also left me interested in seeing more. It’s a shame we’ve had to wait awhile for the conclusion but it ends satisfyingly. Now all four issues are put I’d say that reading all of them back to back would be of benefit. Either way it’s worth taking a trip on the supernatural side of Valiant.
“Cast your minds back if you will to summer last year. It was the height of August and Valiant’s supernatural heroes had banded together to take on Exarch Fane who had The Book of Shadows and was wreaking havoc, death and destruction across the earth…”
“This is a good Bloodshot issue in a short run that is the best take on the character for years. It’s pays homage to the established character with the more thoughtful outlook whilst also delivering on action and violence. It’s a book that deals with trauma, doesn’t shy away from PTSD whilst also delivering classic comic book action. That’s not always an easy balance but is successful here.”
This is a solid third entry. Each issue has brought something new to the table, added to Bloodshot’s character and that is certainly true here as well. Having X-O guest star was a solid choice, bringing a new dimension to Bloodshot in the process.
“There is some truly brilliant stuff in this issue of Bloodshot. The first issue was strong but this second issue not only builds on the first but it builds on the whole character of Bloodshot, his abilities, his past. There are references to the wider Valiant universe too. I was so impressed with the care taken with all of those things too. The writing, art and lettering are solid.”
“This is a solid return for Bloodshot. Surprisingly there is a lot of character work going on. Don’t get me wrong it’s also interesting and action packed but it feels like the mature rating is for more than that.”
This was a very solid second issue that really builds on the first in the best ways. It gives us some answers, deepens the lore a bit more and we learn more about the main nemesis. Still there’s some twists and turns as well and a few surprises along the way. Now the main set up is out of the way I look forward to seeing how our heroes move forward as they seek to defeat the power of The Book of Shadows.
“Ultimately, Public Domain #2 might not have the impact and variety of locations seen in the first issue but it’s necessary for what is coming up.”
“It’s a well paced and well balanced issue that really is just excellent. I have been loving this run of Archer and Armstrong and the quality of writing, art, colouring and lettering remains so strong. With the twisty shock ending I am really interested to see where this goes next.”
“It’s great to have a team-up and it’s refreshing to see these characters come together in a way we haven’t seen before.”
Armorclads has been such a good addition to Valiant. It’s been something new and different.
“Everything in this issue just works for me, it was pretty much perfect Archer and Armstrong. I really cannot wait to see how the cliff-hanger gets resolved next issue. Solidly recommended.”
“This is everything I love about Archer & Armstrong. It’s nice to see they are being worked on by a creative team who just get it. The writing gets the dynamic perfectly, the art works really well and the lettering fits like a glove. I loved spending time with Archer and Armstrong this issue and I am excited to do so again next month.”