Ink and Riffs: Sharing some new stories

Ink and Riffs is a regular review series written by me, Citywide Co-Host Max Bowen, to talk about what I’m reading and listening to and why I think it’s awesome. Feel free to send suggestions to citywidemax@yahoo.com. 

“Influencer” (Audiobook)
An Audible Original, “Influencer” is a thriller following Aaron Fortin and Crystal Giordano.

“Aaron is new in town. He drives a brand-new Acura—a gift from his parents for uprooting him in the middle of senior year. Showing up on his first day at the local public school in that nice of a car? He knows he’ll never blend in, and he doesn’t care to try. The car, the new kid mystique, he can use all that....

Crystal carpools to the same school in her friend Trevor’s beat-up van. In the van along with Crystal and Trevor are Paul, Harmony, and Gayle. When Aaron Fortin sits at their lunch table, Crystal can see he’s not who he says he is. But how big of a fraud is Aaron Fortin? Crystal clumsily exposes Aaron and becomes his target, falling victim to his insidious campaign to erase her. Only then does she discover who he truly is—and it’s so much worse than she thought.”

This story was one I picked up from the intriguing cover and the story has really drawn me in. Aaron is a Jim Jones, Charles Manson-style personality, using his influence as The Speaker to draw people in and brainwash them to serve his ends. He’s smart, devious and cares nothing for who he might hurt. A truly insidious villain. Crystal, by contrast, is the opposite—she wants to be invisible, and seems helpless to stop Aaron. But like Aaron, Crystal is more than she seems.

The voice talent Isabela Merced (Alien, Superman Legacy) and Christopher Briney (The Summer I Turned Pretty) really dive into their characters. Briney brilliantly portrays the manipulative Aaron Fortin and I gotta say, it’s pretty unnerving how well he voices this character. Merced is equally perfect for the role of Crystal and shows the character’s hidden strength. They use a light touch with the other characters, and I liked this approach and had no issues following the story.

All told, this is a really addictive story and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

It’s Storytime with Wil Wheaton (podcast)
I checked out the debut episode of this new podcast, in which Wil Wheaton, who’s an award-winning audiobook narrator, takes up the mantle of Levar Burton’s “Levar Burton Reads” podcast. And I must say, he does an amazing job doing so.

In Wheaton’s first episode, he reads “Rock, Paper, Scissors, Love, Death” by Caroline M. Yoachim. It’s story about love, time travel, and the lengths we go to to save those dearest to us. It’s a great story, heartfelt, creative and it keeps you hooked.

Wheaton’s reading, well, it’s really engaging. He’s done a ton of audiobooks, but I am embarrassed to say that I’ve never heard them. That’ll change soon, I promise. He’s an excellent narrator and you can tell he loves the story he’s sharing. He has a lot of heart, and his reading is well-articulated, full of emotion and he takes care with each word.

So yeah, I’ll be keeping my ears open for the next episode.

“Ghost Box” (comic)
I’ve just begun reading “Ghost Box,” but I am already hooked on it. Written by Mike Carey and art by Pablo Raimondi, this new Comixology series is witty, sharp and has a really engaging story.

Chloe and Jan come into an unexpected inheritance when their uncle passes away, and it couldn’t come at a better time for Chloe, who’s just lost her job and is desperate for cash. She advertises her late uncle’s possessions online, and gets a very motivated buyer. But what is the ghost box, and just what does it do?

The first issue is a great combination of giving us enough without giving us everything. We’re introduced to Chloe and Jan and given enough of a look into their lives to show who they are, and shown what the ghost box is, but still leaving a lot of questions. It’s a great storytelling pace and I’ve heard to much about what an excellent writer Mike Carey is, I’ll be looking for more of his work.

The art is really great, and Pablo paints a really detailed scene on each page, giving added depth to the story and giving us a lot to see. I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Citywide Bytes—“The Groupies” takes on a bloody good tour

On Oct. 22, the world will be introduced to, as writer Helen Mullane puts it, “the acid-drenched, blood-soaked journey into the heart of rock n’ roll excess” and I could not have done a better job summing up “The Groupies,” a new five-issue series which debuts on Oct. 22 through Comixology.

Helen and I go into the origins of this series, and how she and co-creator/artist Tula Lotay shaped the story. Helen shares her interest in the world of groupies and how she dove into it to craft the characters. 

She talks about working with Tula and how she applied her art style to the story. We even give a few hints as to what you can expect, but you’ll need to read “The Groupies” to find out what happens!

Dennis Hopeless shares his past in new comic series

Dennis Hopeless is known for titles such as X-Force, Darth Vader, Suicide Squad and Invader Zim. Now, he shares a true-life story in the Comixology-exclusive title “She’s Running on Fumes.”

Set in Deepwater, Missouri circa 1984, a criminal named Jody is severely injured in a car wreck and his wife discovers he was a drug trafficker and begins her own criminal career in a desperate bid to keep her family afloat. The twist is that this tale of crime and survival is inspired by Hopeless' own parents.

In this episode, Dennis talks about what led him to bring his family’s story to this new series and how his mother helped him to collect all the details. We talk about his past work, which includes titles like X-Force, Spider-Woman and Suicide Squad and how at times his own backstory inspires what he’s written.

Dennis goes into the fiction portion of “She’s Running on Fumes” and how he views this portion of his life, which he witnessed at a very young age. He talks about how he views his father as a person, all these years later.

Father-son comics duo creates a beautiful apocalypse in “By A Thread”

Well, if the world has to end, at least it looks amazing.

Comics great Scott Snyder has teamed up with his son Jack to pen the ComiXology series “By A Thread,” now three issues in, with issue four to be released on March 26.

Set amidst a desolated Earth, The Shroud has consumed nearly the entire surface of the planet, with just a handful of outposts remaining. Jo and his friends live on five “Needles,” spikes of diamonds, the only substance that The Shroud cannot devour. It’s a hard life, but the appearance of a strange traveller gives hope to a legend of an untouched island where life can thrive once more.

Scott, Jack and I talk about how this series grew from a writing exercise to published comic. This was Jack’s first foray into comics, and we go into how he viewed the experience and the lessons learned, both for he and his father. The series was drawn by Valeria Favoccia (Beatrix Rose), colored by Whitney Cogar (Giant Days), and lettered by Tom Napolitono (letters), and we talk about how this team collaborated and produced some of the best art I’ve ever seen.

Jack helped create the diverse cast, and we look at each person’s role and how the characters were created—both the heroes and villains. Though the story is nearing its end, more is planned for “By A Thread,” and Scott shares a few details on what we can expect.

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: Grammaton Punch

Writer: Miles Gunter

Artist: Briane Andan

Colorist: Lee Loughridge

Letterer: Taylor Esposito

Publisher: ComiXology


Born during a solar eclipse, Van Nguyen has the power to see ghosts. What does he do? Punches them in the face!

Yes, I’m here for it.

But let’s back up a bit. You see, when Van starts his freshman year, he discovers his high school is ruled by a gang of ghosts feeding off his classmates' energy. The gang’s leader is Zags, a powerful feeder who got the best of Van in the past and eager for round two.

I laughed my ass of the first time Van KOed a ghost and the action—and story—only gets better from there. The writing by Miles Gunter blends some dark comedy with real emotion. You can really feel what Van has endured at the hands of the ghosts, and cheer for him when he gets the chance for payback. I’m only one issue deep, but can tell there’s a lot more to come.

Brian Andan’s art is really something else. It has an edgy, punk sort of feel to it. His character designs are so unique and cool, and really bring their personalities to life. Combined with the intense, in-your-face colors of Lee Loughridge, and this one’s a treat for the eyes.

As of this writing, Grammaton Punch is two issues in for a five-issue series, and I am in for the whole ride.

Neil Kleid shares his first trip to the horror genre with Comixology Originals title “The Panic”

“The Panic”—a five-issue apocalyptic comic series on Comixology—has quickly drawn me in with its deep characters and gripping story. So, I just had to speak with series creator and writer Neil Kleid for this episode.

In The Panic, ten strangers become trapped on a PATH train beneath the Hudson River when their car comes to an unforeseen halt. They are forced to depend on each of their fellow commuters in order to survive. Things go very wrong as they work their way above ground and those left must fight their way through more than rubble to make it to safety. But the darkness is closing in, and with it their own individual fears and paranoia—along with cultural, racial, and political biases. It’ll be a long road to the end of the tunnel . . . that is if they don’t kill each other before they get there.

Neil and I talk about the origin of this series, which began as a novel set amidst Sept. 11, 2001. We look at how the story was updated and adapted to a comic format, and what had to be changed during this process. Neil worked with Andrea Mutti as co-author and artist, and we talk about the gritty visuals and how they came to be.

Neil also shares the theme of loss of control and security, how they are utilized in “The Panic.” We dive into the different characters and how they interact as they try to save themselves and learn what happened.

Jason Loo shares the origins of “The All-Nighter,” winning awards, and working with Marvel

I'm very excited to welcome back comic artist and creator Jason Loo to look at the ComiXology Originals series “The All-Nighter.” The series is now complete and will be available in print on March 16.

Main character Alex is bored—flipping burgers for strangers all night is no way for a vampire to live. But he and his fellow vampires Joy, Cynthia, and Ian have agreed to blend into human society. Inspired by superhero movies, one of few passions in his un-life, Alex decides to don a cape and start fighting bad guys. But his decision will have bigger consequences than he realizes—for himself and for everyone he wants to protect.

Jason and I talk about the origin of the series and working with co-creator Chip Zdarsky, with whom Jason worked with for “Afterlift,” another ComiXology Originals title. That project went on to win the Eisner Award, and Jason shares the experience at winning one of the biggest awards in the comics industry.

Marvel is one of the many companies that Jason has worked with, and he talks about getting to do the art for some of his favorite titles. His life is a busy one, with a day job on top of his comics projects and gives some insight into how to balance such a busy schedule.

Marc Bernardin shares the diverse, detailed world of “Adora and The Distance”

Recently, I had the chance to read the new graphic novel “Adora and the Distance,” available exclusively through comiXology Originals. It was created and written by Marc Bernardin, who has a lengthy history in television, journalism, and comics.

“Adora and The Distance” is an amazing story about a young girl named Adora who faces a violent force called The Distance, a city-killing threat. Rather than wait for it to bring an end to her home, she and a group of adventurers set on a quest to stop it.

The story is years in the making, and Marc and I talk about how it came to be and the hurdles faced pitching it to publishers before connecting with comiXology. “Adroa and The Distance” is inspired by Bernardin’s daughter who was diagnosed with autism as a toddler, and we talk about what it's like raising a child on the spectrum and how they're often portrayed in media.

Marc and I also talk about the team he worked with. This includes Ariela Kristantina (Illustrator), Bryan Valenza (Colorist), Bernardo Brice, (Letterer), and legendary comics editor Will Dennis. I learn how they worked to create the vivid, lush world found in the pages of this comic and how it even influenced some of the story. 

Stone Star's second season brings the comic to new heights in art and story

It was a year and a half ago when I talked with writer Jim Zub about the ComiXology Originals series Stone Star. A month ago, the second season began and Jim and artist Max Dunbar join me to talk about what we can expect from the story and the many characters.

Jim provides insight into some of the major plot points of Season 1 and how they'll factor into the new season. He also talks about what it means to have a creator-owned series and the directions the team has been able to go with it.

Max and I talk about the unique art of Stone Star, which features some amazing creature designs and landscapes. Max dives into the process behind his work, and some of the more fun aliens he got to make.

Of course, comic-cons have been among the many casualties of 2020, and Max, Jim, and I share some stories from past cons and offer some tips for up and coming artists who want to take advantage of the networking opportunity that these events provide.

Big thanks goes out to Superfan Promotions for arranging the interview. And if you're not already doing so, subscribe to ComiXology Originals for $5.99 a month to get access to thousands of digital comics from companies such as Marvel, DC, Image, Boom Studios, and much, much more.

Virtually Yours team dive into the story behind this dating-themed comic

In this episode, writer Jeremy Holt and artist Elizabeth Beals talk about the new comic, “Virtually Yours,” which you can get exclusively on ComiXology Originals. We talk all about the amazing characters and the many changes the title went through to become what it is today, as well as the message behind the story.

Career-minded Eva Estrella is tired of her family asking when she’s going to settle down. Why won’t they stop nagging her? New York City is a big place! Sure it’s easy to meet people, but you try finding "the one" in a city of 8 million! Besides, Eva doesn’t want a distraction from her goal of finding a dream job in journalism. So Eva joins Virtually Yours, a virtual dating app that provides all the proof of being in a relationship—without actually being in one.

And then there’s Max Kittridge. He might be a former child star, but right now he’s in the middle of a divorce and going through the motions. Max takes a gig at Virtually Yours creating, what becomes, a highly sought-after profile, making him a top performer at the company. As they navigate their current circumstances, both Eva and Max find that sometimes what you're looking for is right in front of you.

“Lost on Planet Earth” explores a new path

Writer Magdalene Visaggio and artist Claudia Aguirre join me to talk about the new series “Lost on Planet Earth,” available on ComiXology Originals. We delve into the story of Basil, a young woman living in the year 2381. Her only goal in life is to become a captain for the Interplanetary Fleet, but will that really make her happy? It's one of the many elements to this brilliant story and we talk about how it all came together and the team behind it.

ComiXology is $5.99 a month and gives access to over 25,000 digital comics, graphic novels, and manga from DC, Marvel, Image, Dark Horse, and more, along with exclusive discounts.

ComiXology title shows a ride-share from Hell

Writer Chip Zdarsky and artist Jason Loo join me to talk about their five-issue series, “Afterlift,” available in full on ComiXology. The series follows Janice Chen, a ride-share driver who picks up a pair of mysterious passengers who are pursued by otherworldly forces, and realizes that her already-terrible day might be headed straight to hell.

Zdarsky, Loo, and I do a deep dive into the story and its origins, as well as some personal connections to the creators. Loo talks about the different vehicle designs he used, as well as how he gave form to the demons and landscape of hell.

ComiXology. is $5.99 a month and gives access to over 25,000 digital comics, graphic novels, and manga from DC, Marvel, Image, Dark Horse, and more, along with exclusive discounts.

New comic series blends magic and mystery

In this episode, writer Erica Schultz takes us into the world of her new urban fantasy comic series “Forgotten Home,” available through comiXology Originals. Sheriff’s Deputy Lorraine Adalet investigates child disappearances and finds a connection between many of the abductions: traces of magic which leads her back to her homeworld of Jannada, a place she left many years ago. Schultz talks about Lorraine and the life she left and all that went on in Jannada, as well as the magic she created in crafting this story.

Following that, I bring you the song “The Suitable Woman” by Layla Kardan. This one's got a cool flow with instrumentation that caught me from the beginning.

Touring the Breaklands with writer/creator Justin Jordan

Justin Jordan, the co-creator and writer of “The Strange Talent of Luther Strode,” talks about his new series, “Breaklands,” available on ComiXology. Set 150 years after the event known as The Break, the new world is a post-apocalyptic land of amazing powers....except for one person. Kasa, the only non-powered person, must save her brother Adam when he is kidnapped in issue one of this five-issue series. Justin delves into the world building process, how he created the characters for this series, and what people can expect in future issues.


For music, enjoy “Bid Mad” from New York-based rapper Molly McCoy. This one's a long time coming, as Molly recorded one of the first bumpers for the show. Molly's style is tight and flowing at the same time, and the music is sick.