Buying comics can be an expensive hobby. A lot of fans simply can’t afford everything they’re interested in, due to rising prices and the over-saturation of the market with superhero titles.
That’s why we’re here. Every week, the Multiversity staff is asked “What would you buy this week if you couldn’t go over $20?” and shares their reasons why, in order to help others who might have similar tastes make their own decisions in buying comics on a budget. Be sure to leave your own picks in the comments!
Matt Lune’s Picks:
Deathbed #1 ($3.99) – When I see Riley Rossmo’s name on a book it’s an instant purchase for me. Throw in Joshua Williamson writing and this has all the makings of a great new series. All about an aging adventurer telling his crazy, violent, supernatural life story to a reporter sounds like a lot of fun, so I’m all in on this.
Twisted Romance #3 ($3.99) – I’m absolutely loving this new anthology series, so far it’s been a real delight with a mix of artwork, prose and comics all centered around the theme of love.
Kid Lobotomy #5 ($3.99) – Kid Lobotomy has fast risen to become one of my favourite books coming out right now. I feel like every issue I’m barely holding onto my comprehension of proceedings, but I’m fully onboard for the twisted thrill ride.
Punks Not Dead #1 ($3.99) – The Black Crown imprint hasn’t let me down so far, and I’m excited to see more from it with this new series about punks, ghosts, and ghost punks.
Mata Hari #1 ($3.99) – Another fantastic imprint, this time Berger Books over at Dark Horse. Hungry Ghosts has been excellent so I’ve no reason to doubt this – the untold tale of the mysterious Mata Hari – will be any different.
Total: $19.95
Mark’s pick:
“Mata Hari” #1 ($3.99)— If you know anything about Mata Hari, then it’s pretty easy to form a picture sexy World War I thriller, and the reason I’m interested in this story is because author Emma Beeby isn’t doing that. She describes it as, “a survival story about what happens in a highly patriarchal society when you have almost no power over your life, and your only asset is your desirability to those with power.” To me, that sounds far more interesting, so I’ll definitely be checking this out.
“Hellboy and the B.P.R.D.: 1955—Burning Season” ($3.99)— I ended up really enjoying this one, which I wasn’t expecting after the disappointment of the ‘Occult Intelligence’ arc. Chris Roberson found an idea that really clicked with Hellboy’s character. Meanwhile Paolo Rivera brings this one to marvellous life. (It probably helps that he’s drawing his hometown.)
“Monstress” #14 ($3.99)— This will always be on my list. Just read it, it’s so good!
“Redlands” #6 ($3.99)— Back in 2014, Jordie Bellaire wrote a short story, ‘Banjo,’ for “Dark Horse Presents.” I believe it was her first time writing, and I loved it and immediately became convinced she needed to write more comics. I gotta admit, that’s part of the satisfaction in reading this series for me. She’s a fascinating storyteller (both as a colorist and a writer).
“Sex Criminals” #22 ($3.99)— I’m in need of a catch-up with this series; I’m trade reading and I haven’t yet read the latest trade. I’ll dive into it this weekend.
Total: $19.95. ‘Tis a good week.
Kate’s Picks:
Mata Hari #1 ($3.99) – Spy story with a strong woman? Sign me up!
Ice Cream Man #2 ($3.99) – I was very impressed by the Twilight Zone vibe of the debut issue, and hopes that continues in the follow up.
Fence #4 ($3.99) – I know it’s early to make this call, but this may be my favorite ongoing series of 2018. The fencing aspects are extremely accurate (writer C.S. Pacat is a former fencer), and the LGBTQ aspects are handled respectfully and sensitively. This may be the comic that gets fans interested in sports manga.
Rugrats #5 ($3.99) – This series is totally feeding on my early 90s nostalgia and this issue we get the Toddler Battle Royale: Angelica v. Susie.
Total: $15.96
