Marvelous Market: Best New Comics April 15

Supergirl Saturday is this week

If you normally buy your comics on Wednesday, you might want to plan on also dropping my on Saturday. Check if your comic book shop is doing something fun, having sales, or giving away anything for Supergirl Day this Saturday.

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

FIREBORN # 1

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A new series set in the world of LOST FANTASY!

Aaron Hillburg was just another rich-kid failson — ghosting his responsibilities, hopping rooftops, and hating his billionaire father in peace… until a mysterious floating dragon egg bonds to him and ignites a hidden lineage of ancient magic inside his body.

Now every violent outlaw wizard, biker cultist, and supernatural warlord between New York City and The World Beneath is hunting him — and they’ll burn the world down to pry the egg from his corpse.

A high octane fusion of fantasy and superheroes perfect for fans of Invincible, How To Train Your Dragon and Absolute Batman.

THE HAB # 1

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Eisner-nominated writer Joshua Dysart (UNKNOWN SOLDIER) combines his powers with world-renowned comic artist David Lapham (STRAY BULLETS), comic book legend Bill Sienkiewicz (NEW MUTANTS), and award-winning colorists Bill Crabtree (INVINCIBLE) and Matt Hollingsworth (BATMAN) to present a groundbreaking horror tour-de-force.Mercurial billionaire Tuttle Barrows prepared for everything—even the end of the world. Years ago he wielded his immense power and fortune to build a massive sealed habitat atop a once protected ancient freshwater glacial cave. Now, as the world outside unravels, Barrows, his family, and a handpicked inner circle retreat to their final sanctuary—a place built to outlast civilization itself.But something was already there. Beneath layers of ice, in the ancient freshwater vault, a long-dormant danger lurks. While hallucinations twist their reality and violence spreads like a fever they must descend deeper or risk their last refuge becoming a tomb.

STAR TREK: STARFLEET ACADEMY – LOST CONTACT # 1

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Caleb, Genesis, Jay-Den, Kyle, and Tarima are all students of Starfleet Academy, the illustrious school responsible for the Federation’s best. One day, they dream to serve as great leaders on board ships of their own, to study the cultural intricacies of sentient life amongst the Galaxy, or to go where no person has explored before. But today, their mission is simply to execute a survey simulation on a lifeless, low-oxygen planet. Or at least, it seems simple… until a huge storm cuts off their contact with their teachers aboard the Athena… and something impossible appears: an alien. Now, they’ll have to work together and use everything they’ve learned in class about first contact to make it off the planet alive!

SUPERGIRL: THE WORLD – SUPERGIRL DAY SPECIAL EDITION # 1

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Celebrate Superman Day with a globe-spanning spotlight on the Last Daughter of Krypton!

Supergirl has always fought to live up to the legacy of her cousin — but finding her place on her adopted world hasn’t always been easy. Now, Kara Zor-El sets out on a journey across Earth itself, embracing its wonders, cultures, challenges, and people… all while saving lives the only way Supergirl can.

This Superman Day Special Edition offers an inspiring first look at the upcoming original graphic novel Supergirl: The World — a sweeping, heartfelt celebration of the Maiden of Might. Across 15 countries, creators from around the globe come together to tell stories that reveal why Supergirl remains one of the most uplifting and powerful heroes in the DC Universe.

Featuring two short stories from the graphic novel, this special edition invites readers to witness Kara’s compassion, courage, and hope as she discovers the extraordinary world she now calls home.

A perfect entry point for new readers and a must-have for Supergirl fans — only available for Superman Day!

Ongoing Series

ABSOLUTE BATMAN # 19

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Poison Ivy proved to be just one of the many horrors within the bowels of the ARK M facility, and as Joker sets his sights on Absolute Batman, he decides to enlist the help of one of the center’s most terrifying doctors, Dr. Jonathan Crane. While Bruce Wayne tries to align himself with Barbara Gordon, there’s more than one alliance formed in this issue. New debuts, new villains, new arc starts here.

G. I. JOE # 21

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STORM SHADOW AND SCARLETT RETURN! The Arashikage and Cobra have met once before… prepare for ROUND TWO! Will G.I. Joe be forced to put a stop to it?

GHOST PEPPER # 10

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It’s all been leading to this — Ash vs Bataar! As Loloi and her team risk it all to save their world, nothing has prepared them for the devastating consequences!

ULTIMATE WOLVERINE # 16

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YEAR TWO OF THE ULTIMATE UNIVERSE NEARS ITS END IN THE FINAL ISSUE OF ULTIMATE WOLVERINE!

Wolverine and Phoenix track Magik right into the demonic dimension of Limbo for an epic, devastating showdown! To escape Illyana’s realm of dark magic, a final sacrifice must be made, one that will lead directly into ULTIMATE ENDGAME #5!

Trade Paperbacks, Hardcovers, and OGNs

ADVENTURE TIME Oni Compact Comics Edition: Princess Power!!! TP

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Back off, Ice King! These princesses are out to chew bubblegum and kick butt—and they’re all out of bubblegum…

Whether it’s defeating Magic Man at Princess High Tea (back off with your dumb irony and words and junk, Magic Man!), celebrating birthdays in the FIRST PERSON (ooooo), discovering the whereabouts of Lumpy Space Princess’s missing star (y’all better have flippin’ good alibis, OK?), crowning the Best Princess Ever (who will take home the coveted Betamax 3000 Tiara Buffer?!), or overseeing a phantasmagoric* (*phantasmagoric: dreamy, weird, changing, shifting) hot air balloon race, these princess-focused adventures pack a most mathematical punch!

Princess Bubblegum, LSP, Turtle Princess, Muscle Princess, Hot Dog Princess—the list goes on! All these princesses and more grace the pages of this specially curated Adventure Time collection, featuring issues #15, 20, 35, and 62–69 of the original comics run with stories written by Ryan North (The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl), Mariko Tamaki (Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me), and Delilah S. Dawson (Star Wars: Phasma), and drawn by Shelli Paroline & Braden Lamb (Midas) and Ian McGinty (Bee and PuppyCat)!

BATMAN: GOTHAM BY GASLIGHT – THE KRYPTONIAN AGE

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The year is 1893, and Gotham City has flourished under the eye of the Batman. But despite the gaudy new light bulbs and the gaudier nouveau riche, the shadows are also growing deadlier new threats. The Batman will find himself challenged by the mysterious Catwoman and the even more enigmatic Talia al Ghul. And what cosmic treasure from beyond the stars waits for all of them outside the confines of Gotham City? The new era of Elseworlds kicks off with the return of the crown jewel, the gothic world originated by Brian Augustyn and Mike Mignola. Superstar duo Andy Diggle ( Action Comics , Poison Ivy ) and Leandro Fernández ( Batman , Birds of Prey ) breathe new life into the legend of Gotham City and its dark guardian. This isn’t the Gilded Age; this is the Kryptonian Age! Collects issues #1-6.

THE COMPLETE 2000 AD BY ALAN MOORE vol. 1: Future Shocks & Other Stories HC

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Alan Moore is a legendary comics writer credited with transforming the medium and how it was seen through his seminal works such as V For Vendetta, From Hell and, of course, Watchmen.

But, before any of that, he cut his teeth at 2000 AD, the “galaxy’s greatest comic”. It was there that Moore honed his craft in preparation for the accolades that would follow.

This first volume in a new series collecting all of Alan Moore’s work for 2000 AD, brings together all of his Future Shocks as well as a host of other one-off stories.

Moore is a master of the short-format story and this collection doubles as the perfect guide for how to write comics to a page limit.

Includes the story “A Holiday In Hell” which has never been reprinted in English since its first publication in 1980.

Moore’s stories are complemented by the works of a string of legendary artists including Dave Gibbons (Watchmen), Ian Gibson (The Ballad of Halo Jones), Eric Bradbury (Rogue Trooper), Bryan Talbot (Grandville), Steve Dillon (Preacher), Brett Ewins (Bad Company) and more.

RUN TP

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First you march, then you run.

This follow-up to the #1 New York Times bestselling graphic novel series March is the continuation of the life story of John Lewis and the struggles seen across the United States after the Selma voting rights campaign.

To many, the civil rights movement was capped with the signing of the Voting Rights Act in 1965. All too often, the depiction of history ends with a great victory. But John Lewis knew that victories are just the beginning.

John Lewis was one of the preeminent figures of the movement, leading sit-in protests and fighting segregation on interstate busways as an original Freedom Rider. He became chairman of SNCC (the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee) and was the youngest speaker at the March on Washington. He helped organize the Mississippi Freedom Summer and the ensuing delegate challenge at the 1964 Democratic National Convention. And he co-led the march from Selma to Montgomery on what became known as “Bloody Sunday.”

In Run, John Lewis and longtime collaborator Andrew Aydin reteam with Nate Powell—the award-winning illustrator of the March trilogy—and are joined by L. Fury, making an astonishing graphic novel debut, to tell this often-overlooked chapter of civil rights history.

Preorders on Final Order Cutoff

BEN TEN # 1

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Summertime is here and blockbuster movies are already starting to heat up movie theater screens all over the globe! Of course, Archie and his extended group of friends are going to get in on the action! First, the Superteens and the Power Pets take on some souped up zoo animals in an all-out brawl! But who’s the evil mastermind behind all the chaos? Then, Veronica Lodge and Ginger Lopez battle it out to be the next best fashion critic! Inspired by upcoming movies like : Masters of the Universe, The Mandalorian and Grogu, and The Devil Wears Prada 2, plus plenty more homages to notable movies throughout Archie’s history, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got extra popcorn before diving into this fun-filled issue!

ESCAPE vol. 1 TP

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SHOT DOWN. HUNTED. OUT OF TIME.

Set in a brutal, fully painted world of anthropomorphic animals — equal parts Inglourious Basterds and Watership Down — ESCAPE is a gritty, bullet-riddled journey through war’s scorched aftermath. It’s about the violence we inflict, the souls we try to save, and the courage it takes to crawl out of fire.

From the creative team of New York Times bestselling author RICK REMENDER (DEADLY CLASS, Uncanny X-Force) and powerhouse DANIEL ACUÑA (Captain America, Black Panther) — the duo behind Marvel’s Uncanny Avengers — comes a savage, full-throttle wartime thriller where survival isn’t given… it’s taken.

Milton Shaw is a battle-hardened bomber pilot, flying missions over a war-torn world ruled by a ruthless empire. But when his plane is shot out of the sky, Milton wakes up behind enemy lines — in the smoldering ruins of a city he helped burn. And in less than 24 hours, his own side is dropping the big one to finish the job.

Now, injured, unarmed, and being hunted through enemy streets, Milton’s only shot at escape comes from the unlikeliest place: a grieving father and his son — civilians shattered by the same fascist regime that rules this land with an iron claw. Enemies by blood. Allies by circumstance. Together, they’ll have to fight their way out before the bomb drops and erases everything… and everyone.

Collects ESCAPE #1-6.

STAR TREK: CELEBRATIONS 2026 # 1

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You are cordially invited to the party that is this year’s Star Trek: Celebrations anthology! This one-shot features the universe’s queer characters in tales of love and triumph, exemplifying Gene Roddenberry’s mission for us all to one day celebrate infinite diversity in infinite combinations.

Our cast of all LGBTQIA+ creators — including Meghan Fitzmartin, Ben Kahn, Jamila Rowser, and more (!) — are serving up the fun with stories like a botanical adventure with Sulu and Ben, a bar brawl bash with Mariner and Jennifer, and a nostalgic holodeck date gone wrong with Seven and Raffi, so don’t miss out on this talent-packed extravaganza.

THE ULTIMATES # 24

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YEAR TWO OF THE ULTIMATE UNIVERSE NEARS ITS END IN THE FINAL ISSUE OF ULTIMATES!

She-Hulk and her remaining teammates confront the villainous Hulk in a brutal, all-or-nothing battle on Gamma Island!

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.

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.

Marvelous Market: Best New Comics April 8

High Literature, Godzilla, and High Literature With Godzilla

GODZILLA’S MONSTERPIECE THEATRE was one of my favorite comics last year. We’re getting a series of one-shots with a similar concept, starting this week.

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

EVERYONE LOVES A JEWEL THIEF # 1

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What’s a struggling writer to do except…pull off a jewel heist!

Novelist C. Scott Frederiksson hasn’t written anything of note in years. He’s about to lose his adjunct position at the University, be dropped by his agent, and possibly dumped if he doesn’t publish a hit and soon.

Scott has it all figured out. A masterfully scripted spectacle to dazzle the masses without doing any real harm. A local celebrity will be robbed of her prized possessions, and Scott will come out on the other side as an antihero, showered with publicity and a lucrative new book deal.

But he can’t do it alone. Every compelling heist needs a crack team of like-minded crooks, and Scott’s top recruits are his old high school D&D group and their ragtag townie friends coming in clutch with the getaway Geo Storm.

It’ll either be the greatest story C. Scott Frederiksson has ever told, or someone’s going to end up dead. Maybe both!

Grab a D20 and roll for stealth in this new heist-acular adventure from Tim Seeley and Aaron Campbell because “Everyone Loves a Jewel Thief”!

THE FURY OF FIRESTORM # 1

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The community of Bedford, Colorado, is a sleepy small town. The people say hello to their neighbors, attend town hall meetings, and root for the local high school football team on Friday nights. But this idyllic small town is thrown upside down when the Nuclear Man arrives and starts… experimenting. Firestorm has turned buildings to sand and people to glass with no remorse and no warning. But what exactly provoked Ronnie Raymond to commit this heinous act, and can anyone contain the fury that is Firestorm?

Brought to you by the incredible team of Jeff Lemire (Absolute Flash, JSA) and Rafael De Latorre (The Penguin) comes the next epic in the Next Level line.

GODZILLA’S MONSTERPIECE THEATRE PRESENTS: ROMEO & JULIET AND GODZILLA # 1

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The explosive literary mashup series returns! But this time, Godzilla is taking on the classics one story at a time. O Godzilla, Godzilla, wherefore art thou Godzilla? First, it’s invading the Bard’s most revered play, Romeo & Juliet. Families at war! Forbidden love blossoming! Godzilla on its path of destruction! Fair Verona won’t be so fair for long!

And that’s not all: Tom Scioli is returning to the series to write and illustrate a backup story starring the legendary thief entitled “Robin Hood and the Monster of Nottingham!”

THUNDERCATS X SILVERHAWKS # 1

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CIVILIZATIONS COLLIDE IN THE CROSSOVER EVENT OF THE MILLENNIUM! When Panthro originally set out on his mission to launch a new satellite high above Third Earth, he never imagined that he would wind up changing the destiny of two entire galaxies. But as soon as he boarded the mysteriously deserted space station and began digging into its workings, that destiny was set in motion — and now the day of reckoning is at hand!

Alerted to an anomaly at a long-dormant base in a quarantined sector, The Copper Kid, Quicksilver, and Chromium — the SilverHawks’ newest member — defy Stargazer’s orders and set out on their own to investigate. But as soon as they land on the forbidden planet, they are confronted by a fearsome band of strange, cat-like warriors — and quickly find themselves in a fight for their lives!

The battle is joined by more ThunderCats, including several whose fearsome abilities threaten to overwhelm the isolated SilverHawks. But when a second vessel appears in orbit, it becomes clear to Panthro that reinforcements are on their way — and not even the Eye of Thundera will be able to stop them!

ThunderCats mastermind DECLAN SHALVEY kicks off his greatest Thunderan saga to date with ThunderCats X SilverHawks #1, both writing and drawing this 40-page inaugural issue that serves as the spectacular opening chapter in his 15-part crossover event spanning three titles over five months!

Featuring astronomically appealing covers from SHALVEY, LUCIO PARRILLO, ERIC CANETE, and BEN OLIVER, as well as a special piece of classic ANIMATION ART, ThunderCats X SilverHawks #1 also features two tremendous incentive editions — a special cover reproducing Declan Shalvey’s original layouts for the issue, and an autographed edition of Ben Oliver’s cover signed by ThunderCats original series voice actor LARRY KENNEY!

Ongoing Series

ABSOLUTE GREEN LANTERN # 13

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Tomar-Re is here, and he will not allow Jo Mullein’s inexperience to compromise his mission. It’s Anomaly versus Anomaly!

BLEEDING HEARTS # 3

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Poke returns to his horde after meeting Mama and Rabbit—profoundly changed and a bit confused. He’s experiencing things he cannot explain…things like compassion and sadness. He’s tried his best to convince Mama that he means them no harm and that they should stay hidden, but for Mama, trust is something hard-earned. So how much of a risk is she willing to take? And can Poke keep the latest hunting party from descending upon their hiding spot?

THE MORTAL THOR # 9

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THE RADIOACTIVE MAN! Radiation can pass through solid walls. Radiation destroys human tissue. Radiation cannot be hit with a piece of wood and metal. Sigurd Jarlson is only human. Dr. Chen Lu, the Radioactive Man, is not. Somewhere in the city, a man with a hammer faces a fight he cannot win…

LEGACY #795

TRANSFORMERS # 31

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THE SECRET OF MEGATRON REVEALED! Megatron has a vision that will change the course of his life. And no one in the Energon Universe is safe.

Trade Paperbacks, Hardcovers, and OGNs

THE AUTHOR IMMORTAL vol. 1 TP

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A queer, literary fantasy about the stories that shape us—and what happens when we outgrow them.

Hector Ramirez dreamed of changing the world with words. Years later, he’s given one last chance: to help reboot the fantasy series that shaped his childhood. But when he discovers the author has vanished into his own creation, Hector is pulled into a realm built from fiction and ruled by a story that refuses to end.

He’s not alone. Along for the journey is Al, his nonbinary teen child searching for their place in both the real world and the story that now threatens to consume them. Alethea, once the series’ bright young mage heroine, also fights alongside them as a battle-worn warrior, questioning whether she still belongs to the story she was created to serve. Together, they must uncover the forces tearing this world apart and what it means to live inside a story that no longer wants you.

As fiction and reality collide, Hector, Al, and Alethea face a painful truth: to move forward, they’ll have to confront the very story that made them.

From writer FRANK J. BARBIERE (FIVE GHOSTS) and artist MORGAN BEEM (Swamp Thing: Twin Branches), THE AUTHOR IMMORTAL is a lush, character-driven fantasy for fans of Nimona , Lore Olympus, and MONSTRESS—a mythic, deeply human story about creation, queerness, and finding yourself in the ruins of someone else’s myth.

Collects THE AUTHOR IMMORTAL #1-5.

CORTO MALTESE: The Fate of Venice and Other Adventures TP

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International award-winning graphic novelist Hugo Pratt’s Corto Maltese returns to American readers in a new collection of classic Corto tales, featuring a brilliantly executed wild chase through Venice for a vital occult treasure!

Artist Hugo Pratt’s most famous creation, the indefatigable sailor Corto Maltese, sails back to American readers after a far too-long absence in Corto Maltese: Fable of Venice and Other Adventures.

Corto, a modern Ulysses whose wanderings in the early decades of the 20th century take him to the most fascinating places on Earth, is a hard-luck, hard-driving iconoclastic anti-hero who values freedom and independence more than wealth and status. In “Fable of Venice,” a riddle from a deceased friend plunges Corto into a phantasmagorical mystery thriller that zigzags between the solidity of dreams and the fluidity of reality. 

A frantic chase in 1921 Venice ensues, up twisting stairs and down tangled alleys, as Corto vies against Freemasons, occultists, budding fascists, and his friend (suddenly back from the dead) in a mad scramble to secure a mystical emerald that will open the doors of forbidden magic and unravel time and space itself!

In addition, this collection of quintessential seafaring adventures also presents the Corto Maltese classics “The Secret of Tristan Bantam,” “So Much for Gentlemen of Fortune,” and “The Seagull’s Fault,” making this book an exciting introduction to Pratt’s work.

EVERYTHING DEAD AND DYING TP

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The Walking Dead meets Essex County in this haunting, rural character piece set during a zombie outbreak.

Jack Chandler is the sole survivor of the zombie apocalypse in his rural farming community, but rather than eliminate them, he has chosen to continue living alongside the undead — including the husband and adopted daughter he fought so hard to have. But when his town is discovered by outsiders, Jack suddenly becomes the one thing standing in the way of his family and those who hope to kill them for good.

Eisner Award-nominated creators Tate Brombal (Barbalien, Batgirl) and Jacob Phillips (That Texas Blood, Newburn) team up for this original story.

Collects all issues #1-5.

PUNK’N HEADS TP

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This band plays together, lives together…and unfortunately two of them are sleeping together. Whatever, I’m sure it’s fine. Now put on your punk’n mask and let’s rock!

Hannah Lipsky isn’t sure what’s happening. She dreamed of becoming a fine art painter, but after breaking up with her girlfriend, she’s suddenly dropped out of art school, moved into a flophouse, and gotten roped into singing in a campy horror-punk band. With costumes. To make things even more complicated, she might be hooking up with her housemate/bandmate/high school crush, Jerry. Wherever this is leading, it’s going to be messy.

Critically acclaimed, Eisner-nominated creators Nicole Goux (Forest Hills Bootleg Society, Pet Peeves) and Dave Baker (Everyone Is Tulip, Mary Tyler MooreHawk) join forces for a raucous and revealing new graphic novel about making music, making mistakes, facing your past, and choosing your future. 

Preorders on Final Order Cutoff

BEN TEN # 1

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A fresh take on a 21st Century classic! Fan favorite BEN 10 returns in an all-new series that will appeal to longtime fans and new readers alike. When a mysterious meteor crashes to Earth, 10-year-old Ben Tennyson discovers the Omnitrix, a high-tech alien gauntlet of incredible power and potential. With this device on his wrist, Ben has the power to transform into incredible alien forms. But can he control this power? If the story sounds familiar, think again!

This is the modern, definitive take on Ben 10 from the team that created him – Man of Action – kicking off with writer Joe Casey, joined by amazing artist Robert Carey, with covers by Carey, Man of Action member Duncan Rouleau, Dustin Nguyen, Sebastian Piriz, and a special MYSTERY VARIANT BLIND BAG containing one limited edition of the issue selected randomly from a range of covers exclusive to this offering! Please The number of Blind Bags is limited, and allocations may occur.

THE BOOK OF JUSTKO TP

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The Book of Jusko showcases the very best of Joe Jusko’s decades spanning career and painted legacy.

In 1992, Joe Jusko’s Marvel Masterpieces trading card set exploded into pop culture—redefining how the world saw superheroes with raw power, larger-than-life drama, and breathtaking realism in every brushstroke. It became a cultural landmark, inspiring generations of fans, artists, and collectors.

Now—due to overwhelming demand—we’re opening the vaults to celebrate the full scope of Jusko’s legendary career. Inside you’ll discover iconic illustrations, rare and unpublished works, private commissions, trading cards, and personal archive pieces—some revealed here for the very first time.

This is the definitive collection of Joe Jusko’s art—a must-have for anyone who treasures painted comics, fantasy illustration, or fine art.

HELLBOY AND THE BPRD: 1955-1957 TP

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This second collection of Hellboy’s earliest days as a B.P.R.D. agent takes him across the globe in adventures that tie in to the darkest corners of the Hellboy and B.P.R.D. comics.

Join Hellboy and his fellow agents on globe-trotting horrifying mystery adventures from a fire ghost in a forgotten dinosaur theme park to vengeful demons in Hong Kong, Cold War weapons tests that lead to mutilated monsters in the South Pacific to a forgotten ghost in a NYC potter’s field and more, plus the true story of Hellboy’s turn on the silver screen in Mexican luchador films!

This volume collects Hellboy and the B.P.R.D. across volumes 1955, 1956, and 1957, from a slew of extraordinary talents including Mike Norton, Alison Sampson, Shawn Martinbrough, and more in this paperback edition!

SHE-SPAWN # 1

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A former solider, assassin, superhero, and mother, Priest now finds herself pulled into a brutal confrontation with an angelic cult determined to sacrifice a child in the name of their God. What begins as a mission quickly becomes something far more personal, forcing Jessica to confront the regret and responsibility that have followed her long after she stepped into the role of She-Spawn.

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.

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.

Marvelous Market: Best New Comics March 25

Archie celebrates 85 years

The character of Archie turns 85 in 2026. But, the true anniversary of his first appearance is in December. And the publishing company was known as MLJ until 1946, and was founded in 1939. Still, you should join in the celebrations.

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

ARCHIE JUMBO COMIC MAGAZINE # 1

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And now for something completely different! Archie Comics is proud to present a JUMBO-SIZED MAGAZINE celebrating 85 years of heart, humor, and hijinks! This must-have magazine will collect some of the most important (and hilarious!) stories in Archie’s history, featuring your favorite characters from the worlds of Archie, Sabrina, Josie & the Pussycats, and more! This is a collector’s edition you can’t miss!

BUTCH: A HATE COMIC # 1

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What’s this? A HATE one-shot starring Buddy Bradley’s younger — and much more f*#ked-up — brother? Yes, please! Picking up where 2024’s Hate Revisited! left off, Butch faces possible prison time stemming from an incident while squatting on his nephew’s rural property. When he becomes a cause celebre to far-right media and an invited guest of the next Ameri-Con, it sends him on a path towards an unexpected spiritual awakening… 

DC / MARVEL: SUPERMAN / SPIDER-MAN # 1

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LEGENDARY CREATORS TAKE ON THE MAN OF STEEL AND YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN! Written by Mark Waid, Tom King, Matt Fraction, Sean Murphy, Gail Simone, Christopher Priest, Greg Rucka and Jeff Lemire Art by Jorge Jimenez, Jim Lee, Steve Lieber, Sean Murphy, Belen Ortega, Daniel Sampere, Nicola Scott and Rafa Sandoval The Last Son of Krypton meets your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man!

When journalists Clark Kent and Peter Parker find themselves chasing the same story, the conspiracy they uncover could change the world — especially if Brainiac and Doctor Octopus have anything to say about it. (And we bet they do!) Good thing our intrepid newshounds are secretly Superman and the amazing Spider-Man. Brought to you by legendary storytellers Mark Waid and Jorge Jimenez.

And don’t miss these bonus stories: Tom King and Jim Lee tell a tale of Lois Lane and Mary Jane Watson. Matt Fraction and Steve Lieber revisit Superman’s pal Jimmy Olsen… and Carnage! Sean Murphy, meanwhile, takes us to the future with Superboy (Legion) and Spider-Man 2099. Gail Simone teams up with Belen Ortega for a look at what happens when Power Girl meets Punisher. Christopher Priest and Daniel Sampere show us a time when Superboy Prime (who reads all the comics) decided to visit Spider-Man right after he got the black suit. Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott take us on an exciting race — between the Daily Planet and the Daily Bugle. Plus, we finally get to answer the age-old question of who would win in a fair fight, Pa Kent or Uncle Ben! Just kidding, those guys are too nice to fight each other, but Jeff Lemire and Rafa Sandoval will take us deep into the past to see the two men bond in the face of adversity. Celebrate 50 years of DC/Marvel crossovers with eight new original stories by some of DC’s top talent!

MEGAGHOST # 1

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Young scholar of the strange Martin Magus and the supernatural giant robot MegaGhost defend the city of Dunwich Heights against the threat of the Occult Kaiju. But a new menace looms, for the sinister necromancer known as Ultraghoul has made a deal with the Nethergods, dark powers from another dimension, to give him the power to defeat his arcane archenemy for once and for all!

Written by Gabe Soria (Jimmy Olsen’s Supercyclopedia, Midnight Arcade) and illustrated by Eisner Award-winning artist Gideon Kendall (Marley’s Ghost, Lester of the Lesser Gods), Megaghost series 2 is an action-packed thrill ride, a macabre mystery, and a massive monster throwdown all in one!

Ongoing Series

G. I. JOE # 20

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OPTIMUS PRIME AND DUKE MEET FOR THE FIRST TIME

What does this mean for future of the Energon Universe? 

EXQUISITE CORPSES # 11

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The last surviving killers have arrived in the town square, ready to finish their blood-soaked game. But Oak Valley’s survivors have tricks and treats of their own in store for the Thirteen’s hand-picked murderers, and this year’s tournament is far from over… Rising star CHE GRAYSON (Absolute Catwoman) and breakout artist GAVIN FULLERTON (The Closet) rejoin JAMES TYNION IV & MICHAEL WALSH as the horror phenomenon approaches its unguessable finale!

STARSHIP GODZILLA # 6

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It’s Starship Godzilla vs. SpaceGodzilla in an epic sci-fi kaiju battle!

The rebel base is under attack by SpaceGodzilla and the Xilien Empire! Thankfully Ayan, the first mate of Starship Godzilla, is able to convince the rest of the crew to intervene and protect the rebel base from utter annihilation. It’s Starship Godzilla vs. SpaceGodzilla for the fate of the rebels! But once the crew starts this battle, there’s no going back — they will become enemies of the Xilien Empire for life!

Don’t miss the epic conclusion to the first arc of Chris Gooch and Oliver Ono’s critically acclaimed Starship Godzilla.

THE ULTIMATES # 22

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CAPTAIN AMERICA VS. RED SKULL… A.K.A. BUCKY! Captain America must face the demons of his past… and the old friend who has become his darkest enemy! An explosive confrontation amid the global chaos of Endgame!

Trade Paperbacks, Hardcovers, and OGNs

THE COUNCIL OF FROGS TP

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A frog ventures out on a quest to find a warlock and save his family in this dark fantasy graphic novel.

Sent out by his “father” — a kindly old swamp lich — one tiny frog must leave the safety of his home in order to deliver a message of grave importance to a warlock in order to save the entire Council of Frogs. Aided by many unconventional friends along the way, this little frog discovers the dangers of the world beyond his beloved swamp grove. But the world is a big, harsh place, and he may need more than his dandelion hat and a tiny sword to make it back home before it’s too late.

HELLBOY UNIVERSE: THE SECRET HISTORIES vol. 1 TP

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Three stories of instrumental side characters are explored in full, collected for the first time in a trade paperback graphic novel perfect for any Hellboy fan’s library!

When did Rasputin find his calling to bring about Ragna Rok? How did the Visitor stay hidden on Earth for so long? And where did the legendary Sledgehammer armor really come from? These questions and more are answered in this new collection from the world of Hellboy!

Hellboy creator Mike Mignola is joined by John Arcudi, Chris Roberson, Laurence Campbell, Christopher Mitten, Dave Stewart, and others to bring these hidden corners of the Mignolaverse to light.

Collects Rasputin: The Voice of the Dragon, Sledgehammer 44, and The Visitor: How and Why He Stayed. 

THE NEW GODS vol. 2: Edge of Darkness HC / TP

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CAN THE NEW GODS SAVE ONE OF THEIR OWN?

It began with a prophecy. From the moment those enigmatic words were delivered from the Source, shock waves rocked the very foundation of the universe. History was written, worlds were conquered, and a new light—in the form of a prophesied child—shone upon the DCU. But this child, and his unimaginable power, has attracted the attention of evils both human and Apokoliptian. Now on Earth and working alongside the Justice League Unlimited, can the New Gods save the newest member of their tribe before it’s too late?

Collects The New Gods #7-12.

THE POWER FANTASY vol. 3: The End of History TP

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They all want to save the world. Their power is such that they save the world every day they don’t come into conflict. It’s getting harder to save the world, every day.

The critically-acclaimed series from KIERON GILLEN (THE WICKED + THE DIVINE, DIE) and CASPAR WIJNGAARD (HOME SICK PILOTS, ALL AGAINST ALL) continues with a third volume that lights the fuse on the bomb called “total annihilation.”

Preorders on Final Order Cutoff

DIE: LOADED vol. 1 – Zero Sessions TP

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What if the fantasy game you played as a teenager became real—and refused to let you go? The cult-favorite, “goth Jumanji” series returns for an epic new story of a dark fantasy adventure game gone horrifically right or wonderfully wrong.

A year after their return from the hellish game world, the players gather for Chuck’s wake. They’ve finished with the game. The game isn’t finished with them. The three-time Hugo Award-nominated series is back. Get ready to roll initiative. Who’s going to DIE this time?

Collects DIE: LOADED issues #1-6.

FML TP

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From the Eisner award-winning creators who brought you Captain Marvel, Bitch Planet, and Wonder Woman: Historia comes this genre-busting, apocalyptic odyssey about a group of metal kids who face a medley of bizarre foes and encounters in Portland, Oregon during a worldwide pandemic.

Riley is a teen that sketches out his heavy metal future with a ballpoint pen between monster movies and band practice. But musical stardom needs to compete with high school, the temper of a former Riot Grrrl mother, the morbid obsessions of a goth sister, and the eccentricities of bandmates that threaten to drive him and everyone around him insane.

The balance gets harder after a ritual during a party in Portland’s Forest Park causes him to wake up one day to discover that the creatures, witchcraft, and metal world he’s obsessed with may be a bit closer to home than he preferred.

Collects FML #1–#8 and includes bonus concept material.

HEAD LOPPER # 1

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Dive into HEAD LOPPER for ANDREW MACLEAN’s masterclass in kinetic action and dark humor. Witness Norgal behead mythic beasts while his chatty, severed-witch-head companion, Agatha, provides relentless sass. It’s visually stunning, high-fantasy carnage that proves decapitation is better with company. Celebrate 10 YEARS of this award-winning, hit series with a NEW *extra-length* NUMBER ONE!

IN YOUR SKIN # 1

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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…

Bollywood body horror meets erotic fiction in writer Aditya Bidikar’s debut series with rising star artist SOM (Crocodile Black), a twisted exploration of celebrity culture, identity, and image that’s perfect for fans of The Substance and David Cronenberg. 

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.

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I ain't sure what about this panel reminded me of someone decidin' where ta' eat, but it did, so here ya' go! More quality memeage from Kilowog!

(Art sampled from "Titans" Vol. 4 #11)

#DialogueEdit #VisualEdit #ComicEdit

#Raven #Titans #TeenTitans #NewComicBookDay #NewComicDay #DCComics #Comics

Aesthetic is the only thing that separates the Supervillains from ordinary Capitalists.

But seriously, how do their glasses glow like that? All the light's comin' from the back, his face is entirely in shadow. Does he have LEDs under there?

(Art sampled from "Nightwing" Vol. 4 #114)

#DialogueEdit #VisualEdit #ComicEdit

#Supervillain #VillainEra #NewComicBookDay #NewComicDay #DCComics #Comics

Here it is, the only meme this week I made from Justice League vs. Godzilla vs. Kong! An' there ain't even any kaiju in it! If ya' like kaiju, I recommend it, it wuz awesome.

I only changed one dialogue bubble in this one ta' make it perfect! Guess which one it was?

(Art sampled from "Justice League vs Godzilla vs Kong" Vol. 1 #7)

#DialogueEdit #ComicEdit

#Superman #LoisLane #ACAB #AbolishThePolice #DefundThePolice #1312 #Leftist #NewComicBookDay #NewComicDay #DCComics #Comics

"But wait," I hear ya' cry, "Didn't Lobo wipe out every single solitary fraggin' bastich Czarnian?" An' ta' you I say, watch yer language.

But I also say, check out the House of Braniac crossover currently runnin' through the Superman books. Especially if yer a fan a' the Main Man!

(Art sampled from "Superman" Vol. 6 #14)

#DialogueEdit #VisualEdit #ComicEdit

#Spoiler #HouseOfBraniac #Lobo #SirThisIsAWendys #NewComicBookDay #NewComicDay #DCComics #Comics

Unions are a vital part a' organizin', an' organizin' is the only way we're gonna save our world! In every national anarcho-communist movement I'm aware of trade unions form a vital part of their strength.

(Art sampled from "Batman/Superman: World's Finest Vol. 1 #27)

#DialogueEdit #VisualEdit #ComicEdit

#BatMite #Unionization #UnionStrong #Unionize #Organize #AnarchoCommunist #AnarchoSyndicalist #Leftist #Socialist #Communist #NewComicBookDay #NewComicDay #DCComics #Comics

Enjoy yer beauty now, young femboys, twinks, an' other beauties, fer one day you too will become a daddy!

Okay, I'm gonna be honest, I ain't got the knowledge ta' say this is universally or even somewhat true, it's just what I thought of when I looked at these panels.

(Art sampled from "Alan Scott: The Green Lantern" Vol. 1 #6)

#DialogueEdit #VisualEdit #ComicEdit

#AlanScott #GreenLantern #RedLantern #Queer #LGBTQ+ #LGBTQIA+ #Twink #Daddy #NewComicBookDay #NewComicDay #DCComics #Comics