Two comics for the price of one!

The name Scott Hoffman (AKA Babydaddy) is well known in the world of music as co-founder of the disco glam band Scissor Sisters. And now we can add “comic writer” to his resume with the release of his two series, “Nostalgia” and “Wag,” both available through Comixology Originals.

Scott and I talk about how both these series came to be. “Nostalgia” is about a reclusive rock star in a dystopian future, and you can bet Scott channeled some of his time in the music industry into this title. We also go into the sick artwork, which is some of the dreamiest, trippiest drawings I have seen.

Next is “Wag,” also in a dystopian future, but that is where the similarities end. Wag is the story of a loner in a post-apocalyptic world, who hears voices in his head. We talk about the legwork that went into creating the character and the world he lives in.

Comic Spotlight: Virtually Yours

Writer-Jeremy Holt

Illustrators-Elizabeth Beals and Adam Wollet

Publisher-ComiXology (online) and Dark Horse Comics (print)

I’ve really come to love the slice of life genre, and consider titles like “Giant Days,” and “Girls Have a Blog” among my favorites.

Well, add “Virtually Yours” to that list. Originally available on ComiXology and now also in print through Dark Horse Comics, this title really ranges in its emotional tethers—from sadness to joy, hope to humor, there’s a lot of ways this connects with the reader. Its cast is as diverse as it is deep, and even those who may be in the supporting role. I get the sense that a lot of time was spent fleshing out their backstories, and the result is a group that has real heart.

Let’s take a look at the two main characters, Max Kittridge and Eva Estrella.

Max is a former child star trying desperately to divest himself of a role that made him famous, but at a cost. As a result, we find him on a journey to determine what’s next. But Max is also a man in intense pain from years of abusive relationships, both verbal and physical. He’s even been manipulated by (and later emancipated from) his own parents who wanted to cash in on his talent. We see him grow in some positive ways, both from being around Eva and his work as a virtual partner. In the end, he’s not “cured,” but he seems to be in a better place, and I found it a very realistic way to go.

Eva’s on a quest to find her way in the world of journalism, and as someone who’s been working as one for years, I really empathized with her. She faces a real challenge as she has to adapt to a new way of reporting (listicles) but she comes through, showing a creative flair and keen intellect. When forced to choose whether or not to compromise her principles for the sake of fame and a big raise, she goes with her heart and I was really proud of her. In the reporting world, a lot of people throw the important stuff away for the sake of a career.

The supporting cast is just as deep, from Max’s childhood friend Patrick to Katie, Eva’s confidante and the one to give her the push she needs to take that necessary step.

I really loved all the Easter Eggs in this one, such as seeing Saga on the shelves of the comic shop and Holt appearing at a signing party. There’s a few more that I think I caught, but I’ll keep those to myself for now.

The art is amazing, mainly for its diversity and depth. The background characters aren’t just a bunch of mannequins. The clothing, hair, etc. show that the artist spent a lot of time with each one, and I’ll bet they have some cool backstories. The use of colors results in a vibrant, energetic world and it’s part of the excitement that kept me reading.

“Virtually Yours” was such a pleasure to read, from the direction of the story to the hilarious interactions among the cast to the very real look it takes at relationships.

Citywide Comic Spotlight: Wynd

Writer and Co-Creator: James Tynion IV

Artist and Co-Creator: Michael Dialynas

Publisher: Boom! Box


I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I began this series, but the cover really caught my attention and after finishing several issues (TWICE) I am very happy I did so.

Set in a world where having a magical heritage is punishable by death, Wynd must hide his true identity – and pointy ears – from everyone in Pipetown, even if it means he’ll never have a normal life. But when his secret is threatened, Wynd is forced to leave his home behind for a dangerous quest beyond imagination.

I loved, absolutely loved, this series. I’ve read other titles by James Tynion IV and this one does not disappoint. The care and detail in crafting this world is evident on every page and I wound up with some very strong opinions on the politics behind the story. On his deathbed, the king of Pipetown forces his son to promise he’ll uphold the laws that condemn anyone of magical blood. And the prince is one of the good guys (sort of).

Wynd is an easy character to like and his heart really directs his choices. It doesn’t always work out, but he stays true to himself, no matter how tough things get. The cast is wonderfully diverse and the different storylines are woven together for a well-told tale.

Dialynas’ art really matches the mood of the story, shifting to darker tones for the more serious moments and lighter when certain death isn’t around the corner (hey, it happens). I’m no artist, but the best way I can describe this style is that is has a fantasy element that really brings the story to life. The use of color is brilliant and the scenes in Pipetown or the forests are my favorite.

As I said, I was skeptical at first, but this series has me convinced. Wynd is still ongoing and I’m really looking forward to what’s next.

Citywide Comic Spotlight—Dark Spaces: Wildfire

Writer: Scott Snyder

Artist: Hayden Sherman

Publisher: IDW Publishing


I’m a big fan of Scott Snyder’s comics, so hearing that he was involved in this series is all I need to know.

Set during the historic Arroyo Fire, a crew of women from an inmate firefighting program are risking everything when a new recruit, a white-collar convict, discovers they’re mere miles from her crooked former boss’ mansion. She proposes they abandon their duties and hunt for riches under the cover of smoke and ash, a shot at a score that would change their lives…one way or another.

It was the cast of characters that hooked me the most. Snyder’s work has always featured a cast so real, you’d swear it’s a true story. Such is the case with “Wildfire.” The women in this firefighting unit have such reality and depth to them and it’s their struggle for a better life that really got to me. Even if they serve their sentences, what will await them afterward? But a score that could set them up for several lifetimes, who wouldn’t risk that?

The story had some great twists which I honestly didn’t see coming. I had intended to just read one issue and come back to it later, but before I knew it I had downloaded the entire series and was eagerly checking it out.

Alongside the gripping story is the artwork of Hayden Sherman. It’s downright trippy at times, and the mood of each scene really jumps off the page. Whether it’s looking back at each characters’ past, the time spent fighting the fire, or the more mellow scenes, I was really drawn in by Sherman’s art. He’s got a real gift for capturing the feelings portrayed by the story.

“Dark Spaces: Wildfire” is a real pleasure to read, and I plan to do so again. Something tells me that you will too.

Citywide Comic Spotlight: The Nice House on the Lake

Author: James Tynion IV
Illustrator: Álvaro Martínez Bueno
Publisher: DC Comics

Like the cover? Then my friend, you will love this story. “The Nice House on the Lake” kicks off with seven people, chosen by their mutual friend Walter to spend the weekend at a gorgeous home. As they arrive, we’re introduced to their code names: The Artist, The Doctor, The Scientist, and others. Walter even has them organized by when they met, how they know them, and gives each a symbol. Totally normal.

Moments after they arrive, a global catastrophe wipes out the human race in a matter of hours by fire. Those at the house want to leave to find family and friends, but then Walter appears and reveals that they can’t leave and they were collected for a reason. Since leaving isn’t an option, they decide to find out just what Walter is and why they were chosen.

I’m a fan of a good apocalyptic story, but some wind up being pretty formulaic. Not so with NHOTL. This one is carefully planned and paced well, with a gripping plot that has a strong emotional feeling. Even though the cast is sizable, it doesn’t feel too big, and everyone has a place. The intros for each issue when the characters appear much older than they are in the main story is a great touch, as they reflect on their time with Walter. James Tynion IV has crafted a really immersive tale and I am loving it.

The art by Álvaro Martínez Bueno I found to have a barely restrained energy to it. The scene when Walter is attacked only to have his body dissolve and reform is a good example of this, and really trippy to see. From the scenes of the fiery cataclysm to the house to all the discoveries, Bueno brings something different each time.

This one is a must-read, and having already read it once and then again for this review, I found there was a lot to discover that I missed the first time around. It didn’t feel stale at all, which for me is a strong component for whether I’ll add this to my shelf.

Citywide Comic Spotlight: Night Owls and Summer Skies

Author: Rebecca Sullivan (Twitter/Instagram)

Illustrator: TIKKLIL  (Twitter/Instagram)

Publisher: WEBTOON


Based on a book of the same name, I was quickly drawn in through main character Emma Jane, who’s left at Camp Mapplewood for the summer by her mom. Determined to get kicked out (through some hilarious plans), things change when she meets Assistant Camp Counselor Vivian Black, with whom she forms an unexpected bond.

The story, written by Rebecca Sullivan, has a mellow pace, which ties in well with the summer season. At the same time, there’s a lot to unpack and I found myself relating to some of the challenges. Emma, Vivian, and the rest of the cast all have a role, whether it’s goofy counselor, unexpected friend, or camp bully. It’s all realistic and I find myself choosing favorites pretty quickly. There’s some great hints as to different aspects of the characters’ lives and I hope we learn more as the story continues.

The artwork of TIKKLIL is really beautiful. Like the story, it’s got a chill vibe and the coloring is on point. Scenes are skillfully set, and the diversity of thought comes through with the characters.

This webcomic came up as a recommendation and I’m glad I decided to check it out. It’s a great read for those looking for an exciting, at times intense, love story.