Gronk: A Monster's Story Vol 4

The latest, full-color volume of Katie Cook's popular webcomic, Gronk! This new installment has never been in print before and is coming to Action Lab as a brand-spankin' NEW book! Follow Gronk and her friends' adventures for another silly, fun, weird year. Like cats? This book has 'em. Like dogs? We have those too. Like tiny green monsters? Look no further, you've found your new favorite book!

Whenever I get hooked on a series after the fact, whether it be a TV show, anime or comic, sometimes I just binge.  It has honestly been a test of willpower to not jump over to the ongoing webcomic and read more.  I've held off so far, and for that reason, I could still appreciate all of the fourth volume of Gronk: A Monster's Story.

I thoroughly enjoyed the first few volumes, as did my daughter, and couldn't wait to break into this one.  Every little story is another great addition to the ongoing fun that is Gronk's life as we follow along.  Many an amusing bit about lack of coffee, fun with food and why walking cats is rarely a thing all made me smile and even laugh out loud.

If by now you either haven't read any of Gronk or any of Katie Cook's work, this is just as good as a book as any to start with.  Even in its Sunday funnies simplicity, every mini story is full of life with the artwork.  You come to love every single character and their wonderful designs are naturally a big part of that.

I like that they even threw in the FCBD issue at the end, yet another me and my daughter enjoyed.  The greatest thing about collections like this of a webcomic is you have no worries about missing continuity.  So even if you've never read Gronk, you can quite easily jump into this and love it, and should do so as soon as it's out.

For more on Gronk: A Monster's Story or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab and follow along at Gronk Comic.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

The Adventures of Aero-Girl 3

The Fantastic Fantoccini and his army of evil muppets attacks! The motivation behind Dr. Chimera's most sinister plot to change Foxbay forever is revealed. Will Foxbay's newest powered pair be ready to stop him?

The greatest of heroes can come in virtually every shape, size, or even species.  The most interesting of villains can often be the most unexpected appearances as well.  Jumping into issue three of The Adventures of Aero-Girl, we get to see a lot of more what is happening in Foxbay.

Aero-Girl and Jak-Jak continue to bond, in both superhuman feats and communicating better.  Other heroes which are introduced are also still doing their part, against such villains as The Fantastic Fantoccini.  Meanwhile, we learn all about the plot of Dr. Chimera to rid Foxbay of all sickness and disease no matter the cost.  Will the other heroes be enough or will Aero-Girl's mother need to let her be the hero she is?

As we get further into the series, there is continually more of the fantastic artwork in each book.  With the new heroes and even villains we got to see new powers, and with that the great art that brings it to us.  The colors really packed a punch this time and of course, the new designs were a treat to see.

The first two books did their part to hook me, and this one has started to reel me in.  I'm really enjoying the writing, and definitely digging the artwork.  This hero book is doing an excellent job in the expansive genre and would love to stick with it.

For more information on The Adventures of Aero-Girl or other Action Lab titles, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

The Adventures of Aero-Girl 2

Jacqueline Mackenzie, the daughter of Foxbay's preeminent hero, was coming into her own as a sidekick when her world was shattered. Now, racked with guilt, she must decide between the responsibility of protecting her city and a mother that no longer wants her to be a hero. Thankfully, she won't face this dilemma alone...

As with many heroes, the story of Jacqueline Mackenzie aka Aero Girl was introduced to us with tragedy early on.  With that did come a ray of hope, as unusual as this one is compared to most.  Going into the second issue of The Adventures of Aero-Girl, I was quite curious as to how that would pan out.

After the terrible loss of Aero Girl's mentor and father, Battle Jack, we lead into this issue with his funeral.  Around the same time, the very unexpected new recipient of the "battle spirit" is seen fending off against one of Foxbay's villains.  Which, as a giant gorilla, is truly a strange occurence in of itself.  Aero Girl eventually meets up with the big guy, aka Jak Jak, and form a bond.  Elsewhere of course, the main villain continues his evil scheming, although the reason behind it isn't.

The fun artwork that I was a fan of in book one continues to grow on me in the sequel chapter.  I really like the different style of character design they use, setting it apart from most you see.  The fantastic colors see a lot of use here, and I'm sure they'll only get more abundant as it goes on.

More of the emotional aspects that drew me in were present here, as was the enjoyable story and great artwork.  I think that this is just different enough and definitely fun enough to keep my interest moving forward.  The story is really starting to open up and now is a great time to get in while it's fresh.

For more information on The Adventures of Aero-Girl or other Action Lab titles, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Princeless: Raven the Pirate Princess 1

Spinning right out of the pages of Princeless, it's the ongoing adventures of Raven Xingtao, The Pirate Princess.  Raven is ready to set off on a quest for revenge against her brothers who have stolen her inheritance.  This monthly ongoing series picks up right where Princeless Volume 3 left off and has the same creative team with Variant covers by Katie Cook, Mike Hawthorne, and Richard Case, limited to 2,000 copies each!

Right after I finished the mini series where she was introduced, there was already a longing for more Adrienne x Raven time.  While it may not be more of the two of them, Action Lab still came through as they always do.  I'm so glad we get to follow along with Raven in her own series Princeless: Raven the Pirate Princess.

Following Raven's departure from her friends, she finds herself captain of a ship with no crew.  Now trying to make up for that in both headcount and money, she runs into a girl also seemingly struggling.  After Raven's generosity is repaid by thievery, a chase ensues, full of action and even fighting.  Once the dust finally settles, the final pages show an unexpected reunion between Raven and an old friend.

As I've come to expect from Princeless series, I got to enjoy more new artwork.  Every artist that gets to add their flair to this title has done a great job.  This newest spinoff is no exception, with strong lineart and colors across every page.  I was especially a fan of all the cool action sequences and hope to see more.

While having read previous books from Princeless would help, and certainly should be done anyways, it's not necessary.  The timing for coming into Raven's new story is at a good point that you could get away with starting here.  I would more than recommend getting into this new series and of course, say you should read them all.

For more information on the Princeless comics or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab Comics.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Gronk: A Monster's Story Vol 3

The third volume of Katie Cook’s popular webcomic, Gronk: A Monster’s Tale, is here! Full color and jam-packed with funny, follow Gronk and her peculiar clan through another year of misunderstandings, friendship and adorable mayhem.

Not every monster has to be a snarling, terrifying beast that fuels nightmares.  Granted, it's not often that they're adorable, loving misfits from the world of monsters.  Lucky for us, that's exactly the kind we get to spend time with in volume 3 of Gronk: A Monster's Story.

I've been lucky enough to share a good amount of geeky things with my now teenage daughter, who can still appreciate Gronk comics.  What's not to love with this cute little character and her adoptive family with all the hilarity that ensues.  There is never a dull moment, a lesson that doesn't get learned by Gronk or even Dale.  Gronk and her innocence in the human world always provides good material for fun.

With all the action and violence out there in comic world, Gronk is forever family friendly.  It's the kind of art that makes every little adventure worth following along with.  Bright, vibrant, strong illustrations and colors that will likely never disappoint.

These collections have so many things you can relate to and laugh with.  If you've been looking for a good book to share, even if it isn't with your children, this is a winner.  There's bound to be plenty more to collect, so get on it and start your own right away.

For more on Gronk: A Monster's Story or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab and follow along at Gronk Comic.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Zombie Tramp Vol 3 Issue 13

Dan Mendoza returns for the one year anniversary of the ongoing series in a special issue written and drawn by the Zombie Tramp creator himself. As Janey makes her way to Florida for vengeance, she's offered a chance at forgiveness to one of those that wronged her and set her on her twisted path.

As anxious as I always am to read another issue of one of my favorite titles, this one was especially exciting.  It's crazy to think that it's already been a year since the ongoing series for Zombie Tramp, yet here we are.  What better way to celebrate with issue 13, complete with a wide assortment of covers to collect.

During her journey headed to Florida, Janey happens to run into one of the many people from her past that wronged her.  After being invited to his home, complete with wife who was equally as guilty for terrible deeds, the horror show begins.  It is page after page of revenge, day after day of pain, as Janey returns the favor for all that was done to her.  While it may not change what contributed to her current state of "living", it did offer a bit of closure, and also opened the door for more questions.

Wow.  With all the intense artwork in issues we have seen thus far, this is way up there.  As you'd expect with the anniversary issue, Dan himself provides all the gruesome visuals within.  It was fantastic to see him illustrate this book, and man did he deliver.

If you've never read any Zombie Tramp to this point, this is a hell of an issue to jump into.  It is undoubtedly one of the strongest, both in story, emotion and art.  Be prepared for some one of the issues that pushes the envelope the most.  Even if you don't grab all the variants like I will, just one copy will be worth the price.

For more information on Zombie Tramp or other Danger Zone titles, check out Action Lab/Danger Zone.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Kids of the Round Table 2

Creator Robert Tinnell returns to the world of his popular film, KIDS OF THE ROUND TABLE! Middle school student Kevin thought his vivid dreams of Merlin, Excalibur, and some of King Arthur's most dangerous enemies were rough - but now those dreams have spilled over into reality - and brought the danger with them!  Can Kevin protect his friends with the power of the magical sword Excalibur?

Virtually everyone to some extent knows and enjoys the age old Arthurian legend.  Of all the characters, the one probably loved most is Merlin.  While most tellings didn't bring him into the "real world", we get to see that happen as we move into issue two of Kids of the Round Table.

With all the dreams that our focus character Kevin has been having, he's really struggling to separate what's real and what isn't.  Even during a heroic rescue that he and his new friends jump head first into, he finds himself seeing things out of the norm.  Shortly after this daring ordeal, all three come to realize that these visions of fantasy are anything but.

As mentioned during the review of the first issue, I have no basis of how accurate the art is to the movie.  Regardless of that though, the artwork is decent so far.  The linework is all clean and colors are pretty vibrant.  Nothing has really jumped out yet, but it's not disappointing work.

Having been based on a movie I've never seen, I'm curious as to how much it really lines up with the original plot.  Even without that knowledge though, it's a fun book.  The only thing I haven't been a fan of is the way the issues just suddenly cut off.  Other than that, I'm interested enough to want to read on, especially never having seen the film.

For more information on Kids of the Round Table or other Action Lab titles, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Venture 1

Down-on-his-luck reporter Reggie Baxter has stumbled onto one of the greatest secrets of all time…superpowered high school history teacher Joe Campbell! But who is Joe Campbell and more importantly, how rich will Reggie become by blackmailing him?

Well, it looks like something I guessed before might just very well be true.  I thought Action Lab was really amping up the superhero collection, and we have a new one.  This one is approaching it more from the view of someone else in this world though.  Or so that's the direction it felt like they are going in with the first issue of Venture.

Although we open up to a robbery that is foiled by a mysterious, glowy superpowered good guy, he isn't the focus.  At least not yet.  Rather, we look into the less than glamorous life of reporter Reggie Baxter.  He's really trying to catch his big break, although with his more X-file type photos, it isn't happening.  That opportunity may soon come, as after being rescued by the previously mentioned mystery man aka history teacher Joe Campbell, he realizes he snagged a perfect shot.

The art side of things has started off pretty solid so far, showing us this new universe where we have superpowered people.  The star of the artistic show was definitely the superpowers, both good and bad, that we saw here.  It's hard to say just how much we'll see of all sorts of cool looking powers, but what we got so far certainly looked awesome.

With the little we know about this high school teacher by day, superhero by night, it leaves you curious to read on and know more.  I also want to see just what happens of this opportunity that Reggie lands and how much he'll take advantage of it.  As a new superhero book that doesn't rely on them completely, it seems like it could be a good title to get into.

For more information on Venture or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review.  All thoughts, comments and opinions belong to the individual reviewer.

Herald 4

While Earhart fights her way through the Elsewhere dimension, Lovecraft and Tesla spend an evening graverobbing before attending Mark Twain’s retirement party. The critically acclaimed Action Lab series continues!

Who would have thought that even more big names could be thrown into this series?  Well, not I, that's for sure.  I'm certainly not complaining about it though, just as long as they don't go too crazy with it.  The madness continues as we dive into the fourth installment of Herald.

Not long after their run in with the cultists, Lovecraft and Tesla head to a graveyard to try and recover the Necronomicon.  With no luck, they continue on to their destination of a retirement party for none other than Mark Twain.  It appears the trouble followed them though, as what looks to be more cultists plan a very strange interruption of the festivities.  All the while, Amelia Earhart who we've only really heard about, is seen making her way across the Elsewhere dimension.

Keeping the same artistic flow throughout the series, we had some particularly neat visuals this time.  The most appealing as you'd imaging were the imaginative illustrations and colors following Earhart in her otherworldly adventure.  Of course, the introduction of another historical figure gave way to an opportunity to successfully represent them in comic form.

With this kind of setting, bizarre and way out of the box are completely, uh, normal.  It only gets more and more insane as we get deeper and that's a great thing.  I can't wait to see what new thing pops up, and you should join the madness before it gets too far along.

For more on Herald or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Zombie Tramp Vol 3 Issue 12

In an effort to make it to Miami faster, Zombie Tramp takes to the air this time on a one-way ticket to chaos. Can Janey control her temper and her human form on a 6-hour flight full of annoyances?

Maybe. But add one more unexpected element to the mix and you’ve got yourself one angry zombie on a plane.

Snakes on a plane?  Not this time.  This time, it's zombie on a plane.  I've never seen the previously mentioned title, but I'm sure it doesn't hold up to this book.  It's hard to when you enjoy Zombie Tramp as much as I do, and still going strong 12 issues into Volume 3.

After the unexpected results of her attempt to teleport, Janey decides to resort to more conventional methods of travel.  Unfortunately, that means trying her patience with the regular assortment of undesirable neighbors on a long plane ride.  Although she gave it a good effort, her temper got the best of her and she flips out on what turns out to be a gremlin in disguise.  Meanwhile, we are introduced to what appears to be yet another new force in the mix, and possibly more powerful.

Compared to a lot of the other recent issues, this was a bit more toned down.  There was a bit of action and powers that we get to see illustrated, but nothing of huge mention.  As always, it's nice to see a new character design, and it'll be great to see more in upcoming issues.

With this newest arc starting, I'm excited to have another possible protagonist that is on Janey's level.  The hints we are left with at the end leave you itching just enough to want more.  Then again, Zombie Tramp usually does, although usually drooling.  That aside, it's looking like another cool storyline that you'll want to check out.

For more information on Zombie Tramp or other Danger Zone titles, check out Action Lab/Danger Zone.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Beyond the Western Deep Vol 1

For over 100 years, the animal races of the Four Kingdoms have lived side-by-side in uneasy truce. But when conflict ignites in the north, old alliances threaten to send the world into chaos. Experience the beginnings of an epic all-ages fantasy in this first collected volume!

Whether it be fiction or real life, it is a sad truth that there will often be conflict because of differences in race.  While it may sometimes just be tension living side by side, there are those unfortunate occasions when it leads to war.  The beginnings of this potential battle for existence unfold as we explore the first volume of Beyond the Western Deep.

The book opens up with a nice historical overview of the races within this fantasy world.  After years of fighting, they eventually divided lands and have since lived next to each other in overall peace with a shaky truce.  As to be expected, this weak truce begins to tear, and one of the races has decided they want to take back what they feel is theirs.  Unknowingly caught in this brewing war is our main character Quin, the new king's captain who sets off on a peace mission.

As a very nature-centric story, the artwork was really vibrant.  I really enjoyed all the different designs for the animal races that we saw so far.  Overall, the line work and colors are all looking strong so far.  It will be nice to see more of the world as the story goes on based on what we've seen here.

This is another book that's great for almost any reader, young or old.  For a starting volume, not a whole lot was thrown at us, but it offered enough to gain interest.  I'd be curious to see how it unfolds and wouldn't mind sharing this with others.

For more on Beyond the Western Deep or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Zombie Tramp vs Vampblade 1

In a story too big to contain in the pages of her regular monthly series, fan-favorite undead anti-heroine Zombie Tramp breaks out into an all-new limited series that pits her against a new larger-than-life supernatural foe… Vampblade! Can Zombie Tramp hold her own against this new interdimensional weapon-wielding comic book bad girl brought to life, or has she met her sexy/crazy/cool match? Let the hair pulling and blood spilling begin!

No sooner am I talking about the spinoff series in a previous review do I get my hands on it.  Now that is good timing if there was any.  And good luck, as getting your hands on anything Zombie Tramp like the first issue of Zombie Tramp vs Vampblade is fantastic.

These two sexy, badass ladies of the supernatural have had their share of bad meetups.  This one tops them all, as Vampblade "rescues" a potential victim of vampire attacks.  Turns out that this poor little lady is Janey aka Zombie Tramp looking for her next meal.  After a rather one sided fight ensues, Janey tries to take over Vampblade's body to rather unexpected results.

As unusual as it is, the artwork this time featured virtually nothing in the way of guts and gore.  Or NSFW content, save for some gratuitous butt shots.  There was plenty of action, that's for sure, which was drawn just as nicely.  Just no queen of the undead boobies, but the short skirt made up for it.  Sort of.

I've mentioned before how much I love Zombie Tramp, quite frequently in fact.  As much as I obsess over Janey though, getting a new leading lady pitted against her is a welcome addition.  If you haven't read the main series up to now, do so right away, and then be sure to grab this as well.

For more information on Zombie Tramp vs Vampblade or other Danger Zone titles, check out Action Lab/Danger Zone.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Nutmeg 3

Fall, Part 3: “What Girls Are Made Of.” Bobby Benson and friends devour Poppy and Cassia's illicit brownies and find they have a completely different effect than any of them expected. Meanwhile, Poppy learns something sobering about the nutmeg they used. Will it be enough for her to quit the game?

Apparently revenge is not always a dish served cold as they say.  Sometimes, it's a batch of brownies served piping hot with some "extra ingredients".  Or so we find out in the third issue of Nutmeg, where revenge does not turn out as expected.

Shortly after Poppy and Cassia attempt to sabotage a batch of brownies and blame it on Saffron, Poppy is utterly filled with guilt.  She even visits her mother's grave to work things out in her head, and when Cassia overhears her, she plans to stop.  When Bobby tells her that the brownies were actually amazing enough to take down Saffron and gang, the plan is now renewed and even stronger.

After three issues, I should probably mention how great I think the covers are.  I really dig the creativity to the covers and the layouts that are chosen.  Not to say the interiors are weak, as they are still nice, but I figured it should be mentioned.

Along with the continuing plot against the terrible Saffron crew, we got a behind the curtain peak at further evils.  There was also finally a nice hint at the crime solving side of the series.  With things really heating up now (sorry, pun had to be done), it's a good time to jump into it.

For more information on Nutmeg or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Kids of the Round Table 1

Creator Robert Tinnell returns to the world of his popular film, KIDS OF THE ROUND TABLE. Kevin is a normal middle school kid who suddenly finds himself encountering the legendary wizard Merlin – and discovers he has a destiny that involves King Arthur’s sword, Excalibur, and grave danger in the form of the king’s greatest enemy!

The classic tale of King Arthur has been woven into many different forms over the years.  Some of them stay closer to what most of us know, some go in completely different directions.  Going into the first issue of Kids of the Round Table, I knew I was in for a pretty unique telling.

Kevin deals with the typical every day happenings of a middle schooler, from dealing to bullies to helping out and befriending the new kid Ben.  During an aikido class that Ben tags along for, new friend and possible love interest Maggie joins the mix.  On top of all that, Kevin also finds himself having recurring dreams and even "spottings" of an old man (who we all know to be Merlin).  What this all means, we'll find out soon I'm sure.

I've actually never seen, or honestly even heard of the movie this is based off before.  So, as for the likeness of the characters to the film I can't speak for.  Otherwise, the artistic component to this book so far is looking pretty strong in both the line and color departments.

Given the timeframe this movie came out, I'm quite surprised I never watched it.  For those that watched and liked it, I'm sure this will be a great way to enjoy it again.  For newcomers like myself, it seems like a cool story and has potential to be a regular grab.

For more information on Kids of the Round Table or other Action Lab titles, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Zombie Tramp Vol 3 Issue 11

Zombie Tramp creates a flesh beast from cemetery inhabitants to do battle with the hulking meth monster that’s plagued her visit to Detroit; but will Motown’s supernatural defender Vampblade help Janey in her fight, or team-up against her? It’s a boneyard brawl of beasts and beauties, as Janey fights for her right to ease on down the road!

There has been a lot going on for our queen of the undead lately.  Between trying to deal with the uber zombie that's been after her, and the recent new player to the game Vampblade, Janey has her work cut out for her.  Apparently, there's not even any rest for the undead as we jump into issue 11 of Zombie Tramp.

Finally, we get a bit of resolution to the conflict between Janey and super zombie as she realizes he is in essence a part of her.  She is merciful, and more so, helps him get back at the drug lord who first screwed him over.  Just prior to getting that revenge, in typical Zombie Tramp fashion, Vampblade makes one more appearance, albeit a brief and fruitless one.  Right at the end, Janey tries her hand at a new skill, and amusingly enough, ends up right in the last place she'd want to be.

We get a little more Vampblade to check out, a lot more guts, and of course, some naughty Janey bits.  There were some pretty neat shots of hulk zombie that as gorey as they were, still did a good job of making you feel bad for the character.  Did I mention the naughty Janey bits?  Oh, yes, I did.  Yes, they're in there.

This issue actually serves as a closer to this current arc, and I'm really anxious to see what happens next.  I'm very curious as to what the implications are of Janey arriving where she did, and I look forward to the next Vampblade interaction.  If you haven't fallen for Janey by now, this is a prime time to do so before the next arc begins, as well as the Zombie Tramp/Vampblade mini series.

For more information on Zombie Tramp or other Danger Zone titles, check out Action Lab/Danger Zone.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

The Adventures of Aero-Girl 1

As Aero-Girl, Jacqueline Mackenzie is the protector of Foxbay. As the sidekick to Battle Jack, her father, her life couldn't be any better; but tragedy is just around the corner! Will she be ready to defend her city against the evil of Dr. Chimera and his army of AniMen? Can Aero-Girl be the hero she (and her father) always dreamed of being?

Sometimes, superheroes work alone fighting the good fight.  Other times, they combine forces and create teams of tremendous power.  We can't forget the popular duo with hero and sidekick though, which can be just as effective.  Breaking into the first issue of The Adventures of Aero-Girl, we see her pair up with Battle Jack, who also happens to be her father!

The opening scene jumps right into the action Aero-Girl and Battle Jack taking care of a circus themed group of villains, finishing just in time before the meatloaf got cold.  Back at home, Battle Jack's wife expresses her concern for the safety of both superheroes, as even Jack is not invincible with the "battle spirit" that is passed from hero to hero.  These concerns are justified as we find out in the closing scene, where Aero-Girl's life changes dramatically.

The artistic style that's used in this book is really fun, almost reminding me of what you'd see in a Pixar hero movie.  So naturally, I really loved it and thought it made for an even more enjoyable read.  On top of the great illustrations, there was some superb and vibrant colors that made this lively book pop even more.

I have to admit, the heart string pulling technique affected me here.  Even if it hadn't, this was still a neat book about heroes with families and the added challenges that presents.  Whether you're into or sick of superheroes, this is not your average title in the genre and is worth checking out.

For more information on The Adventures of Aero-Girl or other Action Lab titles, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Gronk: A Monster's Story Vol 2

The second collection of Katie Cook’s popular webcomic! Gronk is a monster who is learning to adjust to OUR world through the teachings of Dale, a woman who probably shouldn’t be teaching anyone how to adjust to the real world. Join Gronk, Dale, Harli and Kitty for another year of fun!

Since my review of the first volume, I had the chance to share it with my daughter.  We also both grabbed a copy of the book available on FCBD.  Needless to say, there are now two big fans of Gronk in the family, and I'm sure she'll want to read this second volume of Gronk: A Monster's Story.

This next collection of the adorable monster Gronk and her adoptive family is just as wonderful as the first, if not more.  It has a lot of new stories showing all the things Dale must teach her about this world, from the wonders of technology to the expression of art.  Oh, and learning about cuss words, because that's always a challenge for parents.

As with any webcomic you follow from the start, you typically see the artwork evolve as it goes on.  While to most the changes are subtle, I saw some changes from the early work in book one.  Regardless, the lineart Katie produces is just fantastic, and once again, Kevin Minor makes it all the better with his colors.

By the end of the first volume, I had already come to love this endearing story.  After getting the chance to read this second, I am completely a fan and cannot wait to read more.  I've seen firsthand how great it is to share it, and would highly recommend getting this book.

For more on Gronk: A Monster's Story or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab and follow along at Gronk Comic.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Nutmeg 2

Fall, Part 2: “...And Everything Nice:” After some initial trepidation, Poppy takes her first step on the dark side, deciding to go through with Cassia's plan to sabotage rival Saffron's Brownie Brawl fundraiser—and Saffron's chances with local heartthrob Bobby Benson—using some strategically-placed baked goods, and just a dash of malice.

If you ever had a rival in school, odds are it wasn't as dramatic as it is in fiction.  At least, I would hope not, because that would just be crazy.  It would be especially crazy if that rivalry caused you to do the kinds of things the girls are planning in the sophomore issue of Nutmeg.

It was not long after new girl Cassia arrived that she became very good friends with Poppy.  So good in fact, that the two of them are currently plotting against rival and all around mean girl Saffron.  The method?  Food poisoning.  They aren't going to target Saffron directly though, and add insult to injury by adding her crush Bobby Benson into the equation.

While the intentions of this duo may be a bit harsh, the artwork that tells the story is not.  There was a lot more varied environments in this issue and showed off the illustrating more.  The softer colors are really nice and seem to almost be chosen to reflect the baking them of the story.

Now that we've seen exactly what these two are doing to get back at Saffron, the story is really going to starting cooking.  Or baking.  Ok, maybe that wasn't the best choice of words.  It would however be a pretty good idea to check out this comic.

For more information on Nutmeg or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Pirate Eye: Exiled from Exile 4

Face to face with his old foe at last, Smitty fights for his life and for his future. But Burroughs has very different plans for both.  The thrilling conclusion to this critically-acclaimed storyline!

There's nothing like the final showdown between two foes, especially when they both happen to be pirates.  Or, at least one of them used to be a pirate and that very fact has caused him nothing but problems.  He's managed to work his way out of them so far, but how is Smitty going to dig himself out this time in the fourth and final issue of Pirate Eye: Exiled from Exile?

After Smitty correctly manages to locate a secret cave that Burroughs has been hoarding gold in, he draws his old nemesis out.  In true pirate story style, the two prepare to enter a high seas battle with their ships.  When it is unexpectedly interrupted by cannon fire from another source, they end up facing off blade vs blade to end their long quarrel.

The series definitely packed in as much as it could for nice artwork in its ending issue.  Between the action on the water with the ships, and the sword fight finale, there was some awesome action visuals.  There was more of the unusually different art with some characters, but I just went with the flow and let it slide.

If you're looking for a cool pirate series to jump into, this is a pretty great choice.  It might serve you well to possibly grab the other books that came out before, but I think you'd be able to get by without.  Either way, this wouldn't be a bad mini series to add to your collection next time you're out.

For more information on Pirate Eye: Exiled from Exile or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review.  All thoughts, comments and opinions belong to the individual reviewer.

Princeless: The Pirate Princess 4

Join us for the finale of Princeless: The Pirate Princess. Adrienne and Raven are surrounded and outnumbered by pirates ten to one. Will our pair of powerful princesses be able to pound these pesky pirates? Of course they will, but it’s gonna be fun to watch.

Knowing this was only a mini series, I went into this last issue excited and a bit sad at the same time.  I've enjoyed every part of both this and the title as a whole, and was sure this would be a great finale.  My thoughts were correct, and the ending chapter to Princeless: The Pirate Princess now joins as another part of my favorite Action Lab series.

After the rather impressive boarding of the pirate ship belonging to her brother, Raven along with Adrienne now have to deal with the crew.  The two of them face off against a pretty sizable number, but they prove no match for either princess.  Following quite a few impressive fights, Raven finishes off the leader of the pack and seizes control of the vessel.

Although the setting for this chapter was limited to the deck of a ship, it was a mighty issue for artwork.  All of the action with the battle on board made for some really cool visuals.  The various angles, effects and the illustrations themselves were just spectacular.  I'd really love to see more of what was done here and in the mini series as whole in upcoming issues.

If by some unfortunate manner you've never read ANY of Princeless, this is a great mini series to jump into.  For those that know and adore it as much as I do, this is a wonderful addition to the books.  I shall miss these adventures with Adrienne and Raven.  And yes, I completely ship the two of them.  I would absolutely suggest this side story to everybody out there and you should grab all four books right away.

For more information on the Princeless comics or other Action Lab books, check out Action Lab Comics.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.