At this point, DC Comics’ success is no secret.
What began with the launch of the Absolute line has steadily spread to other titles across the publisher. The Next Level initiative, for example, is essentially the Absolute formula injected into the main continuity: create books that stand on their own, offer perfect entry points for new readers, and give creators free rein.
DC’s confidence in letting its creative voices bring their unique visions to these beloved characters has paid off immensely, proving that comic fans never tire of these heroes as long as they’re taken seriously and allowed to evolve.
But one thing that doesn’t get talked about enough is that DC isn’t the only one benefiting from these incredible sales numbers. What we’re seeing, not just at our shop but in many others, is a reignited excitement for the medium in its entirety. Indie comics, in particular, are some of the biggest winners in this new wave of interest.
After all, wouldn’t it get boring to leave your favorite comic shop every month with nothing but Absolute (insert book of your choice)?
Now’s your time to dive into the innovation, weirdness, and thrills that indie comics have to offer. And there’s no better format for that than the graphic novel/hardcover: a full meal that gives you everything you crave after your superhero main course.
If Destruction Be Our Lot TP Vol 01 Andy MacDonald Cover *PRE-ORDER*
Earned its spot as one of this year’s biggest Image launches.
White Sky TP Vol 01 JP Mavinga & Eliza Ivanova Cover *PRE-ORDER*
Perfect for fans of The Last of Us.
Dead Teenagers TP *PRE-ORDER*
Disclaimer: Teenagers die in this book.
M1 Monster Racing League TP Vol 01 Jae Lee Cover *PRE-ORDER*
A premise as outlandish as Jae Lee’s incredible art.
Alice Forever After TP *PRE-ORDER*
For everyone missing Wonderland, this is a worthy addition to the world.
Narco TP Daniel Hillyard Cover *PRE-ORDER*
A comic with a wild premise that leads to an even wilder payoff.
In Your Skin TP *PRE-ORDER*
One of my personal highlights of this year in comics.
A DARTH VADER LOVE LETTER
As much as I love my indie comics, Star Wars is the one big Hollywood IP I can’t really escape (even after this May’s cinematic disaster, sorry, Baby Yoda!). Since childhood, Star Wars has held a special place in my heart, and I’ve always thought of comics as the perfect medium for its vast universe. You can only fit so many weird worlds and aliens into a film, but on the comic page, the possibilities are endless.
So, if you’ve ever wondered about certain character backstories, comics are the most reliable way to dig deeper. Take Charles Soule’s Darth Vader run: it dives into the aftermath of the Jedi’s fall, the rise of the Empire, and Anakin’s transformation, raising questions the films only hint at.
Also, be amazed at just how many Clone Wars references Charles Soule sneaks into this book. He’s clearly a fan at heart, and it shows on every page, with everything beautifully brought to life by the wonderful Giuseppe Camuncoli.
And even if you’re not a Star Wars fan, this is still a thrilling, accessible action-adventure. Good stuff!
Star Wars: Darth Vader Modern Era Epic Collection Vol. 3: The Chosen One TP *PRE-ORDER*
Shop nowMARVEL EPIC COLLECTIONS
After last month’s deep dive into the upcoming releases from DC’s Finest line, it only makes sense to put the spotlight this month on the line that inspired it. No matter how well DC has risen to the challenge, the Marvel Epic Collection remains the blueprint.
For over 13 years, it has steadily covered nearly every Marvel character and run, building a comprehensive, chronological collection of the House of Ideas’ best comics.
The best development from this line’s steady output is that Marvel has finally reached the present, leading to the launch of the Modern Era Epic Collection. Built on the same concept, it now covers stories from the 2000s onward, think the original Ultimates or Bendis’s Daredevil run.
It’s a line that’s as reliable as the heavy Omnis for reading a full run, but at only a fraction of the weight.
X-Factor Epic Collection Vol. 2: The Morlock Massacre TP *PRE-ORDER*
Jean Grey, now where have I seen you before?
Guardians Of The Galaxy Modern Era Epic Collection Vol. 3: Annihilators TP *PRE-ORDER*
The standout book from Marvel’s much-celebrated cosmic revival.
Thor Modern Era Epic Collection Vol. 4: Fear Itself TP *PRE-ORDER*
An event tie-in that knows exactly what it’s doing.
Amazing Spider-Man Epic Collection Vol. 29: The Mark Of Kaine TP *PRE-ORDER*
One of Spidey’s most controversial outings, but that alone makes it worth your time.
Daredevil Epic Collection Vol. 9: Resurrection TP *PRE-ORDER*
Written and drawn by Frank Miller. What else is there to say?
Ghost Rider: Danny Ketch Epic Collection Vol. 2: Bad To The Bone TP *PRE-ORDER*
Wait, who is Ryan Gosling going to play in the MCU?
THAT’S IT FOLKS!
Time and again, the comics industry proves that when one publisher succeeds, everyone benefits. It’s exciting to see indie books gaining traction alongside the big names. The medium isn’t getting buried by DC’s immense success; it’s reaping the rewards.
Whether it’s the hype, the speculators, or just good storytelling, comics are thriving, and there’s truly something out there for every taste right now.
