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READING WITH A FLIGHT RING

Divinity #4

5/31/2015

Divinity #4

Valiant Entertainment 2015

Written by Matt Kindt

Penciled by Trevor Hairsine

Inked by Ryan Winn

Coloured by David Baron

Abram has put Unity into a time loop to keep them from attacking him and he now turns his attention back to what he desires most. He may now have the power of a God and has amassed a large following of people in the Australian Outback but at his core he’s still a man and one who misses the woman he loves and his unborn child both of whom lived and died before he came back to Earth.

Matt manages to do something here that’s pretty amazing and that’s the fact that he not only fleshes out Abram completely but creates a new religion and ushers in a new force on Earth that will be hotly contested by MI-6 and Harada and the like. That’s a pretty massive thing to do in only four issues to leave a lasting mark on the Valiant Universe in such an important way.

I love the interior artwork here it’s so incredibly well detailed and the attention to not only the characters but the backgrounds as well just brings this life beautifully. Page layouts and panel progression with a style that gives you the entire picture of what’s happening is expertly done. Plus the emotion of the artwork amplifies the intent of the writing here so that it’s as much emotionally exhausting to see as it is exciting to read. By the way the two page spread really is amazing and total highlight for their talent and this issue.

With Divinity’s attention divided between his girlfriend and daughter on front and Unity on the other the emotional toll this takes on him is clearly evident. It’s no wonder why they are able to subdue him though keeping him well that’s another story entirely and once Abram’s followers are free they rush to his defense and are willing to take Unity on themselves. It really is interesting to see just how devoted the people whose lives Divinity touched are to him. He’s offered them their own version of Eden and they believe in him wholeheartedly to the point where their own personal safety is inconsequential.

For a man like Abram who has the power of a god to have instilled such devotion in others to experience what he does this issue is some spectacular writing on Matt’s part. The stark honesty of the reality of what he’s doing is just amazing to see play out on the page. How he comes to grips with this will have long reaching effects on him and in his time in the Valiant Universe. This my friends is how you showcase characters that will be significant players in the months and possibly years to come.

Valiant really is showcasing what is missing from the “big two” these days and that’s just good solid storytelling with amazing interiors that helps to expand their line of books and the universe they inhabit. It just doesn’t get any better than this

Liberty Comics #8

5/31/2015

Liberty Comics #8

Heroic Publishing Inc 2014

Written by Dennis Mallonee

Illustrated by Keith Dotson

Coloured by Giuseppe Pica

This is a delightful tale of the origin of the Golden Warrior. I’m really happy however to see that she has her roots in Germany instead of what we normally see here in the United States proving that characters can indeed come from and are born out of all nations across the globe. I like the way Dennis tells how the first Valkyrie to be known as the Golden Warrior was depicted and how Brunnhilde, leader of the Valkyrior made a treacherous bargain with a scarred one-eyed man who with his arrow made of mistletoe shot her in the neck.

Moving forward in time to 1935 where Katrina Feran has the same dream over and over again of what happened on that battlefield not realizing its implications. Living with her lazy unemployable father who thinks Hitler does make vun proud and being treated like a servant than a daughter we watch her story unfold. The writing, characterization and her age all factor in to what makes this story so special and unique among those of the gods anyway.

The way the story is structured is really well done so hands off to Dennis here. Seeing Katrina’s day to day life from her overbearing father who can’t take care of himself to her school life to the meeting that will change her life forever we get a really good strong look at who she is. Part of it is kind of creepy as her father remarks on how fast she’s growing up and how the boys probably want her so that I thought something else was going to happen to Hilter’s rise to power as seen through her father’s eyes which is more history and an interesting look at everyday people in Germany hoping for a better future. Does all this cloud the way Katrina see the world, well more than likely but it’s good stuff.

At the museum where she works the Curator wishes to see her and in his office we learn more than a few things that come as something of a surprise. Eric, the Baron Von Schadel is waiting in the office as well and it’s here things play out in a most unexpected manner. We must remember she is still just a girl but the handsome man with his smooth words both intrigues and infuriates her. I have to say that while Schadel is doing his damndest to return to the sword Katrina owns to Germany so it may have it’s own Heroine he’s gone and done the one thing he didn’t want to do quite yet.

As far as origin stories go this had two elements to it, one familiar, tried and true the other was a nice touch of originality. This story does what Dennis intended it to do it gets the reader excited about the Golden Warrior and the prospect of her adventures and her lineage. Heroic is firmly laying it’s groundwork for bringing back a series of golden age stories and reminding us of a time when thing simpler and dare I say more fun. Plus the characterization here is strong, interesting and dynamic making Katrina someone to keep an eye on.

Keith’s interiors are adequate and at times his potential shines brightly and at others you see he has a ways to go but overall it’s enjoyable. Yes I’d like to see the interiors match the cover which to me is incredibly gorgeous but the emotion and passion is there and keeps the interest in the character going.

Keep your eyes on Heroic Publishing it’s the books you want to read if you’ve lost the joy in all the massive crossovers and constant restructuring of the “big two.”

Material #1

5/31/2015

Material #1

Image Comics 2015

Written by Ales Kot

Illustrated by Will Tempest

Lettered by Clayton Cowles

This reaffirms for me the belief that Ales is one of the most refreshing new voices to write stories these days. Aside from charming good looks and laid back nature it’s his mind that’s his most amazing feature it belies the fact that what he writes isn’t for those that skim through books he has things to say and opinions that are his and his ability to transform them into stories that can enlighten or educate you in ways you don’t realize really does make him one of my favorite writers. I’d love to grab a few bottles of wine and great cheese tray and just talk to the man and get lost in how his mind actually works and if it’s anything like what we see here it would be one of those experiences to remember for a lifetime.

Case in point the opening of this book eloquently describes man’s loss of self and creativity with the ever growing reliance upon technology and devices. It poses an interesting question really one that the younger generations are incapable of frequently understanding or being able to answer. The artwork that accompanies this is pretty darn good too Will has his own unique style that fits in perfectly with Ales’ writing and it’s nice to see such cohesion between words and pictures.

We see Nylon Dahlias an actress whose fame and demand is waning at the moment and we get a good look at her life at the moment. Granted it seems more like that of Lindsay Lohan than not but the way the narration goes she’s kind of someone you want to watch but don’t like the train wreck that was Anna Nicole we all watched with rapt attention because it was that weird and ridiculous we couldn’t stop watching.

Actually the narration or boxes that describe the players in this book was really well constructed. To me personally it does a great job in describing how people are perceived nowadays and whether they are important or not according to new societal norms.

When we hit Chicago and the police versus the protestors things get a little more controversial. Again however much is public perception that the media and government gives us and not by any means what I consider the whole picture so that we can accurately assess the reality of what’s happening. Now the interlude in Oklahoma City is weird even by my standards but ya know what it doesn’t matter it adds something to the mix and draws attention to many problems with modern attention spans. Though I will say this the last three panels of page 11 made me smile.

Follow the continuing tales of these characters as we follow them through what is to become their lives. It’s unexpected, interesting, thought provoking and just weird enough at times to make you perk up and have to re-read it to make sure you are following it what you read. Forget the angsty super-heroes and hard to follow continuity problems they inspire and join Ales and company for a different kind of reading material.

Sure it’s great to read about the strange and fantastic but most of the time real life is stranger than fiction.

Red Riding Hood 10th Anniversary Special

5/30/2015

Red Riding Hood 10th Anniversay Special

Zenescope Entertainment 2015

Written by Jeff Massey

Illustrated by Chris Johnson

Coloured by Leonardo Paciarotti

Since the fall of HiboCorp, Britney Waters—ninja, psychiatrist, and lycanthrope—has carved out a (relatively) quiet life for herself as a Los Angeles bounty hunter, recovering elusive bail-jumpers and supernatural skips. But when the legendary Master of the Hunt arrives on the scene to track down an ancient werewolf, will he become a valuable ally or a mortal enemy to Britney?

Supernatural L.A. Bounty Hunter extraordinaire and she doesn’t have her own monthly series yet how is this possible?   Jeff tells this story in such a way that it begs for him to take Britney on monthly she’s clever, focused and more interesting than ever before and this one piece outfit she’s sporting is awesome! Plus she’s already got a built in supporting cast and guest star opportunities in Robyn and Van Helsing!   Seriously this is an intelligent, fun and action packed story perfect for new readers and long time fans that could launch her into the role of strong female lead and role model.

Chris and Leonardo do some great work on the interiors here as well. Most noticeably is the colouring on the Piz’s shirt throughout the initial chase scene. Honestly it’s really impressive to keep that kind of pattern in a state of motion and it catches the eye nicely.   Then there’s her mid-transformation and that’s completely awesome stuff I mean she still retains her beauty in that wolfish form. Then there’s the Master of the Hunt damn too bad he’s wearing a shirt under that vest with that bald head and chest hair peeking through yeah it’s no wonder what she’s feels seeing him! Really this is why i’m so enjoying Zenescope this more mature take on the characters takes the company to the next level.

Before I move on thanks to Jeff for how Britney feels meeting Reek because her narration was definitely a highlight of the issue.   She didn’t stand a chance at saying no to working with him he punched every button she has and then some and who can blame her he’s this big ole muscled daddy bear. See he wants her assistance in capturing an ancient werewolf though if I understand his Russian English I think it should have been loose to kill more than three K’artaseans.

What happens at home with the old man and Cleese it’s both something of comic relief and father/daughter bonding kind of stuff as well as a sounding board for what she’s thinking. Jeff really does this great job on mixing it all together. You laugh, smile and are left wanting more of this truly odd couple.

How the hunt with Reek plays out is pretty brilliant. Should’ve seen it coming but didn’t and the ending again was then wasn’t what I was expecting. Not going into any kind of details about that hunt but it showcases everything you need to know about Britney and then some and it really does make her one of Zenescope’s most intriguing women.

Postal #4

5/30/2015

Postal #4

Top Cow Productions/Image Comics

Written by Bryan Hill & Matt Hawkins

Illustrated by Isaac Goodhart

Coloured & Edited by Betsy Gonia

What a great issue this is. I’m so impressed that a man like Mark with his asperger's being able to function the way he is and break free of the mold that he’s set for himself thanks to current events happening in Eden has been a joy. Sure we open with him having an episode as a child and then at the hospital with the Sheriff, the concentration on the crooked tie just reaffirm what he goes through everyday of his life and yet he’s still determined. It’s kind of a powerful message that no matter life throws at you, you can be more than other people see you as and so-called maladies aren’t a hindrance at all.

Isaac and Betsy’s work on the interiors are smashingly good too. From the opening of him curled up afraid in a ditch he dug to that focus on the crooked tie to Maggie and what she has finally had the courage to do to everything we see the Mayor manipulating yeah they’ve really gone so far past anything we could have hoped for in bringing this all to life.

It takes three months for Mark to get back to normal after taking that beating and being hung from a tree. In this time Maggie’s own story has changed as has her demeanor and plans, she likes Eden and wants to be more of presence in it. Well after Mak confronts those who beat him and Maggie shows up to help him out it’s time for mommy dearest and Maggie to have something as close to a heart to heart as the Mayor can.

The characterization here is beyond incredible I mean the way we get to know these characters and how honest some are and how damned ruthless others can be and the lack of love or caring on display while it should be alarming is just par for the course in Eden. Bryan and Matt have created this town and world that doesn’t need anyone in spandex or magical powers just the sheer force of will to do what they feel needs doing and that alone should speak volumes at the fact that great storytelling comes in all forms.

With Mark’s recovery and the whole deal between him, Maggie and his mother that he decides after a rather compelling dream about his father to start acting even more out character adds just another facet to his character that you think just how off the beaten path can things get while still not following the path least traveled? There really is something quietly amazing about this story and the way it’s being told it’s like discovering a hidden stash you had forgotten about and just makes your day when you find it.

Do yourself a favor and see if your store still has copies of this series or can order them for you, if not well then a trade down the road is something you should order because this is what as a reader you look for. It’s compelling, complex, fascinating and completely unexpected in its subject matter. I’ve found myself engrossed in this since day one of issue one and I think you will too.

Adam 12 #4

5/30/2015

Adam 12 #4

G. Botic Productions 2014

Written by Gigio Longo

Illustrated by Nick Suders

America is no longer a “free” country. Unable to sustain its debts, the United States is now “owned” by China. Adam Stairs -- a day-dreaming, low-ranking employee in Philadelphia’s housing department -- does his best to excel in a dim and oppressed world of bureaucrats. Adam's girlfriend left him, his boss hates him, he has an alcoholic/womanizing best friend, and he’s homeless. Everything in his life seems to be going the wrong way, but unbeknownst to him, Adam is about to get his 12th chance at life, love and leading humanity to the Garden of Eden.

Adam’s dreams are beginning to get more intense, involved and revealing though when he wakes he still isn’t quite sure what’s what. Still what a way to open up this issue with this spectacular look at his chance to change the world in WWII and trying to rescue Eve, a telling tale if you take a good look at Eve. The great storytelling here by Gigio for seeing both Adam and his counterparts being dispatched so it’s pretty much a level playing field. I really am impressed with the way this story has been unfolding getting more in depth and detailed as it moves towards it’s conclusion.

I’m really starting to wonder about Gianni and his connection to all this, the feather’s falling lead me to think he’s an angel but until the reveal we can’t be sure. Still he’s remarkably calm as he tries to calm down Adam now that they are with Vergil who is trying to fully unlock his memories of those past lives. Hence the dreams they are his past lives and this issue is pivotal to unlocking them if they are to save the world. The pacing of how this whole story is unfolding is done with a superb eye by Gigio and it truly is a delight to watch.

Vergil is a fantastic character I love his gruffness and no nonsense approach, he doesn’t have time to coddle or move things along slowly too much is at stake so he’s willing to go that extra mile to get things done now. Plus his explanation and history is explored more fully here giving the reader the full story of how the Primogenitor is needed to bring peace back. His inclusion to the story adds more background information and much needed explaining as to how Adam has been needed in the first place which as a reader was a bit of a surprise and yet one that I should’ve seen coming.

So while the city is on the lookout for Gianni, Adam and Vergil we see Adam’s past lives flood back to him. Also we get a look at what I’ll refer to as the resistance and their plans to get to Texas where the culmination of this story should take place. With Adam’s memories restored he has one request before heading to Texas though and that’s rescuing Eve. Eve however isn’t aware just yet who she is though if you’ve been paying attention you’ll know who she is at this point.

This really is one hell of a good story. The setting is wonderful and the opposing forces are portrayed extremely well with the bad seemingly having the upper hand and while Adam is important it would seem that they can use Eve as well. Adam however will move heaven and earth to get his beloved back and take down the bad guys in the process if he can. Can he save the world in his 12th incarnation or will he fail and a 13th be needed? We’ll find out in this action packed thriller.

It’s books like this that give me hope for small/independent press companies to thrive in the industry because of the level of work they do. The interior artwork has been steadily improving each issue and do wonders in helping enhance the storytelling and Nick’s imagination in showcasing his past lives really have been a standout for visual enjoyment.

Doctor Who Twelfth Doctor #8

5/30/2015

Doctor Who the Twelfth Doctor #8

Titan Comics 2014

Written by Robbie Morrison

Illustrated by Brian Williamson

Coloured by Hi-Fi

In our world, UNIT scientist Paul Foster was killed in a car crash – in which his wife and daughters perished, and only he survived. Using a Voidsuit and transport tech of his own creation, this alternate Paul Foster has crossed through the Void to reunite with his family in our reality. But he doesn’t belong here, and a menacing group of body-hopping interdimensional entities known as The Fractures are hunting Foster to stop reality from rupturing!

Now the Fractures have infiltrated UNIT headquarters, and Chief Scientific Officer Kate Lethbridge-Stewart knows there’s only one person who can help them – the Doctor. But he and Clara have problems of their own!

I have to give full credit here to Brian because the interior artwork is incredibly well detailed and wonderful to see. Brian’s a real talent here and what we see in the character’s likeness to their television counterparts is fantastic, the attention to detail we see on the page is amazing and the emotion we see off this particular Doctor through his facial expressions and eyes really is something to behold.

To date this has been one of my least favorite Doctor’s but in here in this series and medium, perhaps due to Robbie’s writing, i’m enjoying his adventures. Perhaps it is because you can see more things happen like on page eight and this medium allows for larger scale things to happen. Actually as I read this I found myself liking it more and more and the twelfth Doctor has suddenly found a place in my pantheon of Whovian enjoyment. Smart, sassy and completely in character the dialogue and dilemma faced here and his interaction with Clara all combine to make this one heck of a great read.

I’m not exactly sure how but with this story being so fantastical with the Fractures running around needing to be stopped and the fate of Paul Foster and his family hanging in the balance and London seemingly used to these incursions from the Doctor’s adventures, see Kate and her UNIT for example the story itself just plays out like this could be/should be an everyday occurance of no real consequence. Kate and I saw a Rubik’s cube though it’s really a Rassilon Cube which is used to draw in and contain the Fractures was one of those save moments you think oh c’mon too easy but fun nonetheless.

Oh how I do enjoy the conversation that Clara and the Doctor have with these beings it’s so spot on Doctor Who yet it still retains this fresh, fun and original element to it that makes you smile. Then to see him working alongside Paul was delightful and his use of the people around him instead of that I can do it all attitude makes him the most refreshing version of the Doctor. Also his irreverence to joking when Kate asks where he got that sonic gun yeah it’s moments like this that you can’t help but know that this is greatness and you’re going to stick with this series for the long haul.

I’m always amazed at how things end with the Doctor. There’s a sophistication to them and a simplicity that contradict each other yet work perfectly together. It’s always fun to see how the solution plays out and knowing you’d never really be able to guess how it’ll go yourself.

Titan has taken over the Doctor Who franchise and made it even better than I thought it could possibly be.

Conan the Avenger #14

5/29/2015

Conan the Avenger #14

Dark Horse Comics 2014

Written by Fred Van Lente

Illustrated by Guiu Vilanova

Coloured by Michael Atiyeh

Conan and the freed slave Natala arrive at the gates of Xuthal, dying of thirst after escaping an encounter with the evil sorcerer Thoth-Amon. Once inside, they discover the city strangely deserted save for what appears to be a shambling corpse. Entering a residence, they find a feast set for an absent diner and take it for themselves. However, it comes with a price. They have trespassed into a dark and haunting place, where citizens dreaming in a black-lotus haze are seemingly abducted by shadows. Now, a woman, Thalis of Stygia, confronts Conan and Natala for entering this cursed city . . .

Each issue I am constantly amazed at the level of storytelling Fred manages to bring to the character. With Conan and Natala’s encounter with Thalis this issue we see some very interesting word play between them. Conan may be a barbarian but he’s also extremely intelligent as well and while Thalis tries to manipulate the situation to her advantage he’s constantly on guard and not acquiescing to her requests. Yes she is this bone white almost Egyptian clad beauty but her mannerisms and actions showcase she’s deadly and not to be trusted and he is right to keep his guard up and protect Natala.

Hats off to Guiu and Michael here for the work on the interiors. With the focus on the characters that we’ve got this issue the backgrounds aren’t as important and the minimalist scenery here works to really showcase the importance of the feelings you're supposed to get from them. Throughout the entire issue what they showcase from the story just enhances the reading here and the enjoyment level. They really have found what makes Fred’s story tick and brought that to life.

I am utterly fascinated by the whole concept of this city built on an oasis. That when they aren’t asleep dreaming from the dream flower they are accomplished scientists raises new questions about the importance of science in this time. Magic, gods and fantastic creatures we’ve seen but not so much science so this opens up another facet of the world Conan inhabits that begs for more exploration. Even here we see the mix of Thog an ancient god who dwells under the city made of science and the effect he has on these people.

This isn’t the kind of stuff I think of when I think of Conan and for that I’m eternally grateful because this is such complex storytelling and characterization that really expands the world they live in making it seem like there’s so much more to learn, explore and experience. Oh plus what Thalis has planned for Natala at the hands of the men of the city yeah that’s kind of crazy too but she did experience that then it’s something she wanted and adds to the craziness that is her life and more importantly an agent of Thog as I believe her to be.

Fear not fans because before this issue is over there’s plenty of swordplay to go along with the suspense of events unfolding here. This is one of the most well balanced books where storytelling and action combine to really define Conan. It also happens to be the most exciting Conan series to hit stands in years!

Wayward #8

5/29/2015

Wayward #8

Image Comics 2014

Written by Jim Zub

Illustrated by Steve Cummings

Coloured by Tamra Bonvillain

Back Matter by Zack Davisson

Well well well now that Rori and Shirai are alive and kind of recuperating its interesting to see where they ended up. When the Obasan introduces herself as Auntie Ayane, the woman helping the pair, raises more questions since she too seems to have that affinity with cats that young Ayane has. Did rori inadvertently send them into the future or is Ayane part of a bigger caste than we realize? The implications either way make things coming down the pike definitely more intriguing.

Steve and Tamra do this amazing job on the interiors really and the eyes between young and old Ayane just make me think things are more complicated. Though I have to say the way they can use their imagination to bring the story to life really is amazing. From the weaves of ribbon surrounding Rori and Shirai that showcases her power and newfound understanding to the dirt spiders that Ayane claims will help them we get a magnificent look at this beautiful and wondrous world they live in.

I still see Nikaido as a girl though there’s really nothing masculine about him and he’s very effeminate so i’m not sure about him but this issue he seems to be more comfortable taking up the leadership role in Rori’s absence. What we see from the three of them here is nice as they move towards a less reactionary stance and into one a more organized and the need for a long term plan is introduced. Ayane is very much a cat and her attentions span is short like a feline's and that causes a problem within the group. There is some really intense characterization going on here and honestly it’s more than a little surprising but in the best of ways.

This really is among the finest books on the stands today. Not only is this what I see as incredibly true to Japanese lore and society but the characterization is top notch and the interiors are gorgeous. Even with the kind of in depth looks into character we get like in this issue where they aren’t fighting the bad guys we see plenty of information that help further the story along in the most unexpected of ways. The way Jim has intertwined these characters lives and destinies showcase just how talented a writer he is.

Each issue ends leaving the reader wanting more so that a month between issues seems like almost too long a wait.

Zack’s back of the issue look at what the impact of Japanese lore is on modern society is almost as much required reading as the story itself. Not only is this educational and informative but it’s just plain fascinating to see how things in another part of the world have had such an impact on their society and the people who are making this series come to life.

This book is proof positive that Image really is the home for cutting edge storytelling.

Future Proof #5

5/29/2015

Future Proof #5

Bliss On Tap Publishing 2014

Created by Brian Phillipson & Alex Murillo

Written by Alex Murillo

Illustrated by Alex Cormack

Coloured by Ashley & Alex Cormack

A time traveling, espionage, action/adventure buddy flick style thriller, seriously what more do you need to know about it pick this up? I love that this issue seems the be the turning point for this series as it moves forward. The writing remains to be some of the best there is and Murillo has done an excellent job on fleshing the boys out and making them likeable and relatable and just fun good ole boys who do their job and along the way kind of question a few things about what they are doing. He’s managed to get us to care about them while crafting a time travel story that isn’t outrageous or hard to follow and that’s the mark of a good writer people.

I’ll say this too i’ve really enjoyed watching Cormack grow as an artist on this project. They backgrounds, page layouts, the boys themselves and this issue that creepy owl yeah it looks really darn good. You can see his evolution as an artist and it’s one of those things where you see his potential in the first issue and by this the fifth he’s exceeded where you thought he’d be making him one of the industry's up and coming illustrators. Though we could have gotten a better look at James in those boxers I mean really now.

What happens this issue however is the natural progression of what we’ve seen so far. That they are in 1910 and during their mission they kind of have an epiphany about what’s being said and done around them. Throughout history there have been people whose intentions haven’t been the best and plenty of corrupt men have wormed their way into positions of power in order to further their own agenda’s. We’ve seen this in the history books and on PBS, yes I love my local stations, so when the boys see it first hand however and really get a chance to experience that kind of pure evil if you will things in their lives begin to change. Dispicable behavior happening on the train folks and ya know it kind of represents that era nicely unfortunately.

James and Simon manage to complete their mission but something else happens here that wasn’t supposed to. The remembering of some of their most heinous missions notwithstanding another agent arrives on scene and tries to kill a man in a location that wasn’t on the agenda. Before this new agent of the Sing can say anything though about how the company lies to them and uses them he’s well just check out what Alex does to him because it’s kind of gross, awesome and foreboding all in one image.

So what happens with all this newfound knowledge and odd things that have unraveled before their eyes? Will we finally get to see the Sing? Are the boys going to go rogue and take down the very organization that gave them purpose in the first place? Oh so many questions so much more potential for greatness to come. It seems the best is yet to come and the future isn’t written in stone.

This is why I love the small independent press titles, they are books made out of love and passion for the genre/medium. They have some great skills and can contribute to our enjoyment in ways that sometimes the larger ones can’t. This is one those series and companies you need to be reading and finding their books and get out of the mindset of the big two!