Not too much to say about today’s first look, except that Mr. Lodge is a decadent hypocrite. He has a totally green house in one story, and in the next he converts a 6-car garage into a den? Well, I guess he’s still being green if he doesn’t actually use a garage for cars,but still. I’m just jealous. Enjoy the previews!

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #191
“Going Green”
When Mr. Lodge introduces his environmentally friendly homes, he agrees to let the gang live in one to try it out! But how will they react to being watched 24/7? In the end, they not only show how the house saves the environment, but they get a song out of it.
SCRIPT: Bill Golliher
ARTIST: Stan Goldberg, Jim Amash
COVER: Fernando Ruiz
Shipping Date: 5/18/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 6/1/2011
Newsstands: Week of 6/7/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

If you’re like me and you’ve been sucked into True Blood, then you’ll be just as excited as I am that the Season 4 Trailer has arrived today from HBO. Admittedly, I have a pretty strong love/hate relationship with True Blood in that sometimes I enjoy it immensely and other times I want to give up because the characters are just so extreme. Despite my frustration with some of the characters on the show (mostly Tara), they always keep me coming back for more. It also leaves me wondering if there are any good (by this I mean not-so-corrupted) people living in the town of Bon Temps? (I think Hoyt is perhaps the only one.)

This season we’re going to see even more supernatural forces creep up on the little Louisiana town of Bon Temps. Necromancers arrive and it is rumored that they can perhaps control vampires since they are technically dead. Sookie has to deal with more drama and death popping up all around her, and we will soon see if she will choose Bill or Eric (or maybe Alcide the werewolf) as her next lover.

Give the trailer a watch and tune in to HBO on June 26th to see the Season Premier.

The Archie people were gracious enough to send us the solicitiations of the books they’re shipping in August. There is some interesting stuff coming down the pike. A few standouts include The Best of Archie softcover, a cheap trade with a bunch of classic stories inside with a whopping 416 pages! We also have the return of The Man for R.I.V.E.R.D.A.L.E. For video game fans, we see the continuation of the Sonic: Genesis storyline which continues to have awesome throwback covers. Over in Mega Man, we get the first appearance of Time Man, who previously had only shown up in the Mega Man: Powered Up game for the PSP. These things along with the usual Archie suspects means we’re going to have an Absolutely Alliterative Amazing Archie August!

ARCHIE #624 “GEEK FACE-OFF!”
Dilton reunites with his former best friend from tech camp, Mark Zuckerberg, to dispute his right to Facebook in court. Even though the judge rules in Dilton’s favor, the Blossom twins own 99% of the profits. Once the air is cleared, Dilton and Mark are friends again and the tide has turned in their favor.
SCRIPT: Dan Parent
ARTIST: Dan Parent, Jack Morelli
COVER: Dan Parent
Shipping Date: 8/10/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/24/2011
Newsstands: Week of 8/30/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #157
“THE MAN FROM R.I.V.E.R.D.A.L.E. – THE NOSE KNOWS!” & “ENTER THE DEMON”
P.O.P. operatives A.R.C.H.I.E., R.E.G.G.I.E., and J.U.G.H.E.A.D. face off against the infamous C.R.U.S.H. agent Dr. Nose after he subdues Pop and captures V.E.R.O.N.I.C.A. In this thrilling story, the gang must battle explosive robots and corporate espionage to save the day! Dr. Demon is up to no good again in “Enter the Demon,” but can he get to Lodge Industries’ secret weapon before P.O.P. does?
SCRIPT: Frank Doyle
ARTIST: Bob White, Mario Acquaviva, Sal Contrera
COVER: Bob White
Shipping Date: 8/3/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/17/2011
Newsstands: Week of 8/23/2011
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

ARCHIE & FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #8
“PUREHEART THE POWERFUL EVILHEART’S REVENGE”
Who would have thought Reggie could get any worse than he already is? Archie’s Pureheart is faced with the battle of his life when Evilheart faces off against him to win the affections of Betty and Veronica.
SCRIPT: Frank Doyle
ARTIST: Bob White, Mario Acquaviva
COVER: Barry Grossman
Shipping Date: 8/10/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/24/2010
Newsstands: Week of 8/23/2011
Digest, 160 pages, 30 lb. newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #221
“BALL IN THE HALL,” “COMP-EATING,” “E-CON-NOMICS,” & “PHONE A FRIEND”
In “Ball in the Hall,” Archie and Sayid search the school for the prankster behind the dangerous bouncing ball. Jughead races through a hotdog contest in “Comp-Eating” only to walk away when he’s almost at the finish line. Even though Archie wants to win, ol’ Jughead is in it for something else entirely. It’s hard to make it in the comics business, and as Chuck and Archie learn in “E-Con-Nomics,” you have to stay away from the merchandise if you hope to profit from your own. Be careful, Archie. With the arrival of his new smart phone/“best friend” in “Phone a Friend,” it might not be long before there’s no one left in Riverdale to call.
SCRIPT: Tom DeFalco, J. Torres
ARTIST: Gisele, Pat Kennedy
COVER: Pat Kennedy
Shipping Date: 8/3/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/17/2011
Newsstands: Week of 8/23/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

B&V FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #217
“That Suits Me Fine!”
A day at the beach for Betty and Veronica quickly turns into a fashion competition when Betty’s homemade swimsuit grabs all the attention. With Veronica left in the shadows, she decides to reverse the situation and creates a bathing suit of her own. Too bad no one told Ronnie glue is not an acceptable substitute for needle and thread before she ran into the ocean.
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ARTIST: Fernando Ruiz, Jim Amash, Barry Grossman
COVER: Dan DeCarlo
Shipping Date: 8/17/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/31/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/6/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

BETTY & VERONICA #255
“BEACH BLANKET BASH-UP,” “CHISEL FIZZLE,” & “THE BEST OF BUDS”
The heat is on! Betty and Veronica go head to head in a contest that will decide who wins Archie’s fiery affections. Round after round the girls battle it out to find that sometimes working against each other has worse consequences than a volleyball loss. Sometimes, the best art is created when you least expect it. In “Chisel Fizzle,” Betty and Veronica help ‘the next Michelangelo’ with his craft. Finally, in “The Best of Buds,” Archie’s #1 girls take a trip down memory lane and recall what makes them the best of friends.
SCRIPT: Paul Kupperberg, Craig Boldman, George Gladir
ARTIST: Jeff Shultz, Jim Amash
COVER: Fernando Ruiz
Shipping Date: 8/10/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/24/2011
Newsstands: Week of 8/30/2011
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #194
“THE BIG PUZZLE” & “RUNNING GAG”
While Veronica is away fundraising for her country club’s charity, Betty will try for all the time she can with Archie. But poor Betty is alone again once Veronica sees photographs of their adventures and steals him back for an event honoring her. In “RUNNING GAG,” Betty and Veronica take some much needed nature time to hike and stay fit but after learning of a bear sighting, their walk is anything but relaxing.
SCRIPT: George Gladir, Mike Pellowski
ARTIST: Pat Kennedy
COVER: Fernando Ruiz
Shipping Date: 8/31/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/14/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/20/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

JUGHEAD #209
“BUILDING A BETTER JUGHEAD”
Jughead and Moose make an unlikely team, but when Jughead needs a place to stay, he finds a soft bed, and some hard exercise at Moose’s house. It’s too bad sharing their conflicting routines means bruises and weight gain.
SCRIPT: Craig Boldman
ARTIST: Rex Lindsey
COVER: Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski
Shipping Date: 8/31/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/14/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/20/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

JUGHEAD DOUBLE DIGEST #173
“BFFs…NOT!” and “Food for Thought”
Jughead and Veronica are at it again. In “BFFs…NOT,” they learn that the most turbulent friendships can find a common ground – even if it’s by insulting each other. In “Food for Thought,” Jughead tries to decide what he wants to do for a career. How does his decision bring together two business rivals?
SCRIPT: Paul Kupperberg, Mike Pellowski
ARTIST: Tod Smith, Jim Amash, & Barry Grossman
COVER: Tod Smith, Fabio Redivo
Shipping Date: 8/17/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/31/2011
Newsstands: Week of: 9/6/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb. newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

LIFE WITH ARCHIE #13
“ARCHIE MARRIES VERONICA” & “ARCHIE MARRIES BETTY”
Dilton’s doctoral thesis reveals the existence of an infinite number of parallel realities while Archie’s reality is slowly crumbling around him. Veronica leaves him to find someone more suitable and Jughead finally finds a way to balance work at the Chocklit Shoppe and his marriage to Midge. An exonerated Reggie begins to think of his future, and it seems to include Betty! In “Archie Loves Betty,” Archie finds comfort in teaching and scouting musical talent for Ambrose’s club, the Chowhouse. All the while, Hiram Lodge’s world is dark when Veronica’s plane to their Paris office goes missing, allowing Fred Mirth to continue his dastardly scheme to take over Lodge Industries. Will Mr. Lodge mobilize fast enough to save his company, his daughter, and maybe the world?
SCRIPT: Craig Boldman
ARTIST: Rex Lindsey
COVER: Norm Breyfogle
Shipping Date: 8/31/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/14/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/20/2011
Comic, pgs, lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$3.99 US

MEGA MAN #5
“Time Keeps Slipping” Part One:
The evil Dr. Wily may be in jail, but that doesn’t mean the adventures are over for Mega Man! Federal agents are investigating Dr. Light for ties to the Robot Masters’ rampage while sinister figures lurk in the shadows. And why does Dr. Wily look so smug in his jail cell? Don’t miss the beginning of the newest Mega Man adventure! Featuring a painted cover by fan favorite artist Greg Horn!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ARTIST: Chad Thomas, Rick Bryant, John Workman and Matt Herms
COVER: Greg Horn
VILLAIN VARIANT COVER: by Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
Shipping Date: 8/24/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/7/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/13/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #228
“Genesis” Part Three:
The most talked-about story in Sonic comic history continues as Sonic brings a curious new face into his adventures: Miles Prower, the boy genius! As Sonic and his friends continue the good fight against the evil Dr. Robotnik, the perils get more perilous, old memories begin to resurface, and the Death Egg orbits. Don’t miss the penultimate issue to this anniversary special event!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ARTIST: Tracy Yardley!, Terry Austin, John Workman and Matt Herms
COVER: Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
Shipping Date: 8/17/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/31/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/6/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

SONIC UNIVERSE #31
“Inside Job” Part Three:
Scourge the Hedgehog, evil doppelganger to Sonic, is half-way to his goal: put together a gang and bust out of Zone Jail! But first he’ll need to win the loyalty of two of the most dangerous members of the Destructix. If he can survive that, the rest is easy: fighting an army of Zone Cops and rival inmates!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn.
ARTIST: Tracy Yardley!, Jim Amash, Phil Felix and Steve Downer
COVER: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash & Matt Herms (After Spaz)
Shipping Date: 8/3/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 8/17/2011
Newsstands: Week of 8/23/2011
Comic, pgs, lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #10
“LOVE ME BABY, MUMBAI” PART 2
In the conclusion of “LOVE ME BABY, MUMBAI,” Archie and the gang call it a wrap on Raj’s movie and learn that there are always two choices to make when it comes to love and compromise. Will Raj and Betty find romance or will their Bollywood flirtations end before they even begin?
SCRIPT: Tania del Rio
ARTIST: Bill Galvan
COVER: Bill Galvan, Al Milgrom
Shipping Date: 8/24/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 9/7/2011
Newsstands: Week of 9/13/2011
Digest, 160 pgs, 30 lb newsprint, Full-Color
$3.99 US

GRAPHIC NOVELS:
The Best of Archie Comics (softcover)
Various authors/illustrators
978-1-8797-9484-9
$9.99/$10.99CAN
5 ¼ x7 ½”
Trade Paperback
416 pp
Direct Market On-sale: 7/27/2011

An essential introduction to new readers and a must-have companion for longtime Archie fans – The Best of Archie Comics features the best Archie tales in a stunning 416-page full-color $9.99 volume.

For 70 years, Archie Comics has been a vital and constant presence in American entertainment and pop culture, selling over 1.5 billion comic books. Archie — the lovable Riverdale teen who constantly finds himself in funny, entertaining and action-packed situations, and his closest friends Betty, Veronica, Jughead and Reggie – continues to be the bestselling kid’s magazine line in North America at retail.

The Best of Archie Comics features classic tales from some of the biggest creative names in the company’s history, including Bob Montana, Harry Lucey, Dan DeCarlo, Sam Schwartz, Stan Goldberg, Dan Parent and more. Hand-picked by Archie historians and experts, the stories collected in The Best of Archie Comics take readers on a veritable pop culture tour of America, from the World War II era to the swingin’ 60s to the present – including anecdotes, memories, historical highlights, exclusive content and more from Archie creators.

The Best of Archie Comics is the flagship title of Archie’s 70th anniversary and will receive intense publicity, marketing and sales support through 2012.

Knuckles the Echidna Archives Vol. 1
Written by Ian Flynn, Illustrated by Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
978-1-8797-9481-8
$9.95/$10.95CAN
5 x 7 3/8”
Trade Paperback
160 pp
Direct Market On-sale: 8/24/2011
Knuckles Archives is Archie’s new SEGA-licensed book series spun off of Archie’s #1 best-selling Sonic Archives line. Knuckles serves as a companion piece to Sonic Archives—each references the other when stories intertwine.
Published in the popular full-color digest format that has done so well in children’s graphic novel sections, this super-sized 160-page title collects comic books Sonic’s Friendly Nemesis: Knuckles #1-3 and Knuckles the Echidna #1-3.
Knuckles is a highly popular character in the Sonic universe. In this volume, dive in as Knuckles investigates the mysteries of his origins and the wonders of the Floating Island and tries to solve the riddle of Archimedes! Brace for the harrowing adventure as Knuckles comes face to face with the dreaded Dark Legion and has his first encounter with Enerjak.

Funny story, a few weeks ago I was talking to someone of twitter about what would be done when Steve Rogers took back the name and costume of Captain America. I joked that Bucky would also be Captain America, but would then franchise the name out to others, much like a certain Grant Morrison-penned series over at the Distinguished Competition. It was a silly and snarky joke to make, but it seems it actually had a bit of merit, because we’re getting a book titled Captain America Corps! Granted, from the looks of these preview pages, the Captains all come from different points in the timestream,so it’s not exactly the same. Plus, Roger Stern always gets the benefit of the doubt from me. If nothing else, I want to pick this up just to see why the Watcher looks so bored!

Marvel is pleased to present your first look at Captain America Corps #1 (of 5), from legendary writer Roger Stern and artist Philippe Briones. When bedlam breaks loose in a dystopic America, the Watcher calls together the nation’s greatest team to save our nation and the world! Steve Rogers, Bucky Barnes, U.S.Agent, American Dream, and Commander A must band together to cut the American public loose from the malicious control of Americommand. But can the Sentinel of Libertys, led by Steve and Bucky, work with one another before it’s too late?  Find out this June when Captain America Corps #1 (of 5) hits comic shops everywhere.

CAPTAIN AMERICA CORPS #1 (of 5) (APR110583)

Written by ROGER STERN
Penciled by PHILIPPE BRIONES
Cover by PHIL JIMENEZ
Rated T+ …$2.99
FOC – 5/23/11, ON SALE – 6/15/11

Once again, we have a huge roundup of Image Comics releasing this week! There are some gems this week, such as the oft-delayed Science Dog Special #2, Everyone’s favorite stitch together hipster, The Li’l Depressed Boy #4, and if you missed it on Free Comic Book Day, the Super Dinosaur Origin Special!  Dive in, there is about 45 pages of comic-y goodness to be had!

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THE DARKNESS: FOUR HORSEMEN #4 (OF 4)

story DAVID HINE
art & cover JEFF WAMESTER

The Darkest Tale of The Darkness Yet!
Apocalypse has come to Ginsberg, CA! Two ominous powers arrive in town, one of ultimate light and the other of deepest darkness, and Jackie Estacado is trapped between them. The Four Horsemen are ascending to their full power. Can Jackie muster the power to prevent the end of the world?
From David Hine (Batman: Arkham Asylum) and up-and-coming artist Jeff Wamester (Frenemy of the State).

MAY 18
32 PAGES / FC
$3.99

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DRUMS #1 (of 4)

story EL TORRES
art  ABE HERNANDO & KWAICHANG KRANEO
cover RAUL ALLEN

MAY 18
32 PAGES / FC
$2.99

“LET THE BATÁA SPEAK”

In our world there exists an ancient religion with many names and   many disguises: Candomble, Palo Mayombe, Santeria… Voodoo. FBI   agent Martin Irons is sent to investigate the sudden deaths of an   entire gathering of followers at a ceremony, an assignment horrible enough before one of the mangled corpses rises and leads him on a sinister path. A new horror story with possesions, santeros, zombies… all set to the thunderous boom of drums!

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LAST MORTAL #1 (of 4)

story JOSHUA HALE FIALKOV
art & cover RASHAN EKEDAL

MAY 18
38 PAGES / FC
$2.99

Alec King is a born loser. A small time criminal who has never succeeded at anything in life and whose fear of failure has crippled him. When his only friend, Brian, the brains and charm of their two-man operation, convinces Alec to help him with a hit contract on a mayoral candidate his life unravels to rock bottom. But sometimes we need to hit rock bottom to begin the climb towards a better day…

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THE LI’L DEPRESSED BOY #4

story S. STEVEN STRUBLE
art & cover SINA GRACE

MAY 18
32 PAGES / FC
$2.99

“THERE IS A LIGHT THAT NEVER GOES OUT”

After birthdays, concerts, bowling and house parties, The Li’l Depressed Boy feels closer to his dream girl more than ever before. In this issue: A new friend, some fried rice, and a kiss.

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SCIENCE DOG SPECIAL #2

Story ROBERT KIRKMAN
art & cover CORY WALKER

MAY 18
32 PAGES / FC
$3.50

FIGHT FIRE WITH FIRE. FIGHT EVIL WITH SCIENCE!

Collecting the never before reprinted Science Dog back-up story from INVINCIBLE #75, as well as the ALL-NEW full-length, never-before-seen conclusion of the story!

This story has been years in the making-don’t miss its epic conclusion!

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SUPER DINOSAUR ORIGIN SPECIAL #1

story ROBERT KIRKMAN
art & cover JASON HOWARD

MAY 18
$2.99

Super Dinosaur is finally here!

In this stand-alone origin special, you will learn everything there is to know about Derek Dynamo’s best friend, Super Dinosaur! Where did he come from? How did he avoid extinction? What is Inner-Earth? And what the heck is DynOre and why is it so dangerous?! All this and more will be revealed – don’t miss out!

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THE WALKING DEAD WEEKLY #20

story ROBERT KIRKMAN
art CHARLIE ADLARD
cover TONY MOORE

MAY 18
32 PAGES / BW
$2.99

After the earth shattering events of past issues, Lori is left dealing with the choices she’s made and the events that have transpired of no fault of her own. Meanwhile steps are made to turn the prison into a home. Things are winding down and life is becoming more bearable. If only they could forget what they just went through.

RETAILER WARNING: MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES

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WITCHBLADE #144

story RON MARZ
art STJEPAN SEJIC
cover STJEPAN SEJIC, JEAN-SEBASTIEN ROSSBACH

May 18
#4.99

Witchblade 15th Anniversary Issue!

In 1995, Marc Silvestri, Michael Turner, David Wohl, and Brian Haberlin created a new kind of comic heroine with the origin of Sara Pezzini, the latest in a long line of bearers of the mystical gauntlet known as the Witchblade. In an over-sized 15th Anniversary issue, Ron Marz and Stjepan Sejic tell Sara’s origin from a new perspective, planting seeds that soon will bear deadly fruit!

Featuring two spellbinding covers including a wraparound retrospective by series artist Sejic and an iconic painting by fantasy illustrator Jean-Sebastien Rossbach (Magic: The Gathering). Also including special anniversary features, pin ups, and much more! Plus ask your retailer about a FREE matching digital download of this issue with purchase.

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ZERO: JM KEN NIIMURA ILLUSTRATION ‘07–‘09 TP

art & design JM KEN NIIMURA

MAY 18
96 PAGES / FC
$12.99

ZERO is a selection of gorgeous illustrations by I KILL GIANTS artist JM KEN NIIMURA. This beautiful volume collects several of Niimura’s dynamic and vibrant illustrations, which were published in magazines, books and advertisements during the 2007–2009 period.

RETAILER WARNING: MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES

Archie Comics have a history of have celebrity guests in their books. Heck, they’re going to have an American Idol/X-Factor face off pretty soon. That’s why it’s really surprising that the guest stars in the upcoming World of Archie Double Digest are thinly veiled celebs rather than the actual people themselves. You see, the “Eats” Network has come to Riverdale. “Dude Ferrari” “Maple May” and “Deanna Paul” are there to enter Riverdale High’s own Ms. Beazley to compete in “Cafeteria Cook-Off”! It’s just surreal check the preview pages below, for a taste of your favorite Food Eats Network celebs!

Archie #621 has a few things going for it. First, it’s the first issue with a retro style red band on the top. I think that’ll make the book stand out nicely on the stands. Also, we are teased with the promise of a Lost Land full of dinosaurs and Archie becoming king of said land. While the preview pages below just tease it, I’m hoping Archie gets a bump on his head, declaring himself Ar-Chee and finds himself in a love triangle with two native girls, Mira and Manee. At any rate, enjoy the preview below !

ARCHIE #621
“The Lost Land” Part 1
What is the secret of San Mantana? In the “Lost Land,” the gang heads south of the equator for an archeological expedition. On a routine hike, the gang discovers dinosaur bones that are only a few months old! And then discover dinosaur bones… on a hungry live dinosaur!
SCRIPT: Tom DeFalco
ARTIST: Fernando Ruiz
COVER: Fernando Ruiz
Shipping Date: 5/11/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 5/25/2011
Newsstands: Week of 5/31/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

Just in case the Rapture doesn’t happen on May 21st, you may want to know what’s in the coming months to your local comic shop! No worries, we’ve got you covered! Here are the books coming out of Aspen in July!

HAUNTED CITY #0

Peter Johnson – Writer / Michael Ryan – Art / Peter Steigerwald – Colors

In the corners of our minds, we find ourselves asking…who protects us from the unknown?

Detective Tom Whalen is a ‘lifer’ on the force, as well as a veteran of the decrepit streets of New York City…along with all the freaks that come with it. Yet, the city might not be anything close to what he thinks it is, in fact—it might just be far worse than he ever imagined! Journey through the supernatural origin and expansion of America’s most famous metropolis, New York City, in this introductory HAUNTED CITY zero issue that will uncover those which dwells in the shadows of the paranormal, and also reveals why Detective Whalen may not be able to survive the city he’s spent his entire life protecting.

Aspen Comics proudly teams up with producer and director McG’s Wonderland Sound and Vision to bring you this all-new story that sets the stage for the brand-new HAUNTED CITY #1 issue heading your way next month. Make sure to get in on the ground floor of this incredible new series that’s set to take comics and Hollywood by storm! Complete with an additional sketchbook section, never before seen art, and a stunning cover by series artist Michael Ryan, this special #0 issue is not to be missed!

HAUNTED CITY #0 is in stores July 6^th, 2011! FC 32 Pages $2.50

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: IRIS (vol 2) #1

David Wohl – Story / Eduardo Francisco – Art / Sunny Gho – Colors

Iris is back, but will she survive – The Hit List Agenda!!

Aspen’s first ever intra-series summer event, “The Hit List Agenda” takes off right HERE in the pages of this exciting first issue! A brand new corporate power player has emerged in the wake of Ching’s death and Iris’ disappearance, but this time, it is no man calling the shots, but a woman—Diane Coverdale. However, dangerous elements are still at play in the high stakes world of corporate domination, and Coverdale must obtain a familiar form of defense to guard herself and her assets—introducing Executive Assistant: Acteia. Sworn to protect her employer at all costs, Acteia proves to be quite deadly, but when Coverdale’s life is threatened, she must learn that discretion can be as effective as any weapon in her arsenal. And how exactly does IRIS fit into all of this?? Pick up the thrilling first chapter of “The Hit List Agenda” and find out!

Aspen’s first ever Summer-spanning event, “The Hit List Agenda” starts right here with the return of Executive Assistant: Iris!

Executive Assistant Iris (vol 2) #1 is in stores July 6^th, 2011! FC 32 pages $2.99

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: ORCHID #1
Scott Lobdell – Story / Micah Gunnell – Art / Rob Still – Inks / David Curiel – Colors

“The Hit List Agenda” sets its sights on Executive Assistant: Orchid!

Aspen’s first ever intra-series summer event, “The Hit List Agenda” debuts right HERE in the pages of this exciting first issue! The blood trail of “The Hit List Agenda” leads to a small, poverty-stricken Colombian village in South America. A powerful drug cartel led by Ramos Cordova seeks to strengthen their grip of power and fear over their oppressed citizens. Executive Assistant: Orchid is up to the task as her master and his unruly son Umberto, use her element of surprise to settle an old debt with their rivals—definitively. But, when her orders send her north to Dallas, her mission may unwittingly engulf her into a conspiracy larger—and more dangerous– than her ‘capable’ abilities can handle!

Aspen’s first ever Summer-spanning event, “The Hit List Agenda” continues right here in the pages of EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: ORCHID!

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: ORCHID #1 is in stores July 13^th, 2011! FC 32 pages $2.99 mini-series

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: LOTUS #1

Vince Hernandez – Story / Oliver Nome – Art / Emilio Lopez – Colors

“The Hit List Agenda” zeros in on Executive Assistant: Lotus!

Aspen’s first ever intra-series summer event, “The Hit List Agenda” debuts right HERE in the pages of this exciting first issue! The turmoil in South Asia erupts into chaos as “The Hit List Agenda” sets its sights on the Republic of India. Amidst the bloodshed of a devastating attack on the Israeli Embassy, one woman’s actions will force the government’s hand in inching towards a potential war with a rival nuclear superpower—Executive Assistant Lotus! Yet, the catastrophic national conflict she has set into motion by her exploits is nothing compared to the life-altering conflict rising inside her due to the misdeeds of her past!

Aspen’s first ever Summer-spanning event, “The Hit List Agenda” continues right here in the pages of EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: LOTUS!

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: LOTUS #1 is in stores July 20^h, 2011! FC 32 pages $2.99 3 issues mini-series

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: VIOLET #1

Marc Andreyko – Story / Pop Mahn – Art / John Starr – Colors

“The Hit List Agenda” heats up for Executive Assistant:Violet!

Aspen’s first ever intra-series summer event, “The Hit List Agenda” debuts right HERE in the pages of this exciting first issue! England takes center stage in “The Hit List Agenda” as one man, Henry Vincent, the heir to the Velchem fortune, decides to protect his wealthy corporate interests–as well as his life—with force. Executive Assistant: Violet is the solution. However, when the events of his father’s death become clear, and the crisis surrounding Vincent’s various holdings begin to reach a boiling point across the globe, Violet must prove she has what it takes to protect their future while also confronting the demons within!

Aspen’s first ever Summer-spanning event, “The Hit List Agenda” continues right here in the pages of EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: VIOLET!

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: VIOLET #1 is in stores July 27^h, 2011! FC 32 pages $2.99 3 issue mini-series

FATHOM (vol 4) #3

Scott Lobdell – Writer / Alex Konat – Pencils / Beth Sotelo – Colors

Michael Turner’s Fathom makes its return for the sensational fourth volume!

A weary and frustrated Aspen arrives in Saudi Arabia at the request of scientists from an international conference of deep-sea researchers, but mostly, looking to avoid the scornful eye of the U.S. Government. However, Aspen soon realizes her refuge from the Americans’ concerns has now become a solution for a new groups’ crisis. At the request of the powers-that-be, she is hesitantly thrust back into the depths to moderate a search for oil reserves that soon turns into a discovery far greater—and potentially far more catastrophic—than what they ever could have anticipated.

For the legions of FATHOM fans who have been waiting to see Aspen in her element and taking control of her life, now is the time to jump on in—the water’s just fine!

FATHOM #3 is in stores July 20^th, 2011! FC 32 pages $2.99

CHARISMAGIC #4

Vince Hernandez – Story / Khary Randolph – Art / Emilio Lopez – Colors

Everything you thought you knew about magic will…  Vanish.

Journey into a world where the lines between magic and reality are blurred…And where one man will soon find himself as the last remaining hope for all mankind.

Hank, Sudana and Sparkles make their way into the treacherous jungles of Costa Rica in search of the wizard Kon for help. Yet, their journey may end before it even begins when they encounter The Guardians, magical panthers tasked with protecting the temple of Kon—who may or may not be allies to their cause. Inside Kon’s temple, the ancient wizard battles the newly returned Samsun, but the tides of magic power have shifted—and not in his favor. In the Void Realm, Hector and Alle’s capture by a mystical shaman will provide a glimmer of hope to the pair stuck in the hellish landscape of the Void, but will they be able to survive in order to enjoy it?

Created and written by Aspen’s own Vince Hernandez, with stunning art by Khary Randolph and Emilio Lopez, make sure to open your eyes to the exciting new world of CHARISMAGIC!

CHARISMAGIC #4 is in stores July 27^th, 2011! FC 32 pages $2.99

Ah career planning, that dreaded time in every teen’s life where they have to decide where to go after high school. In this tale, it seems that Juggie is contemplating the life of a fireman. That’s all well and good, but I believe Jughead is fighting his destiny by not being a restaurateur. In Life with Archie, he’s a great cook in not one, but two possible futures! Oh well, to each his own. Along with the lead story, you get a total of 160 pages of Jughead goodness. Check out the preview, if you like what you see, your local comic shop is just a phone call away…

JUGHEAD DOUBLE DIGEST #170
“Food for Thought” and “A Matter of Taste”
In “Food for Thought,” Jughead tries to decide what he wants to do for a career. How does his decision bring together two business rivals? Finally in a “Matter of Taste” Jughead accompanies Betty and Archie to the county fair. While he was there he decides the food booths are much more fun than the games, until he finds a way to combine the two.
SCRIPT: George Gladir, Mike Pellowski
ARTIST: Pat Kennedy, Mike DeCarlo, Bob Bolling, Jim Amash,
COVER: Pat Kennedy
Shipping Date: 5/4/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 5/18/2011
Newsstands: Week of: 5/24/2011
Comic, 32 pgs, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US

To find a comic shop near you, call 1-888-comicbook or visit ComicShopLocator.com

In this issue: Betty takes a big step to being Riverdale’s hottest librarian (just ask Reggie), and then B&V try to convince Nancy not to be a stereotype. I kid of course. The book is full of laughs and jokes, and stories. Despite the solicitation text below, I am rather sure that since this is a double digest the page count is actually 160 pages. Now, if they could just do something with that incredibly cumbersome title…

B&V FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #214
“Librarians on the Loose” and “Jumping to Conclusions”
Did you ever think librarians were boring people? In “Librarians on the Loose,” Betty discovers it’s not just about checking in and out books! Join Betty and Dilton as they take on a globe trotting mission to collect old and valuable books! Finally in “Jumping to Conclusions,” Betty, Veronica and their friend Nancy find out all the cool stuff they did as kids isn’t as easy when you’re a teenager. In fact, it could be dangerous!
SCRIPT: Bill Golliher, Mike Pellowski
ARTIST: Stan Goldberg, Jeff Shultz, Rich Koslowski
COVER: Pat Kennedy
Shipping Date: 5/4/2011
On Sale at Comic Shops: 5/18/2011
Newsstands: Week of 5/24/2011
Comic, 32 pages, 40 lb. glossy stock, Full-Color
$2.99 US