Book of the Month for November 2013 - No Spoilers, please.

[Big Red]

Last month, Harbinger 17 beat Bloodshot and H.A.R.D. Corps 15 by six votes to win book of the month for October.

Which book was the best this month?

Feel free to rank this month's books in your post.

Also, as was suggested previously you are allowed two votes this month. So you can vote for your top 2 books this month. This should help determine which books were best.

[bygranddesign]

it only allowed me one option

my rankings

Harbinger
A&A
Unity
Quantum and Woody
Bloodshot
Eternal Warrior
X-O
Shadowman

[Big Red]

it only allowed me one option

Sorry.

Technical Difficulties... or actually, user error.



I corrected it. I don't know if it will let you go back and cast your second vote or not.

[mateo107]

for me:

Unity
Archer & Armstrong
X-O Manowar
Bloodshot and H.A.R.D.Corps
Harbinger
Eternal Warrior
Shadowman
Quantum & Woody

[Talisman]

For me it was:

Eternal Warrior
Unity
Harbinger
Archer & Armstrong
X-O
Bloodshot & H.A.R.D. Corps
Quantum & Woody
Shadowman (the Kot story was exceptional, not really blown away by the rest)

[blujay]

It's gotta be Unity My second was Bloodshot & HardCORPS

[hawkeyeps]

BS&HC
Harbinger
Unity
XO
EW
A&A
Shadowman
Q&W

[Peter]

1. Unity
2. Archer & Armstrong
3. Eternal Warrior
4. X-O Manowar
5. Harbinger
6. Shadowman
7. Bloodshot & H.A.R.D. Corps
8.Quantum & Woody


I really enjoyed Archer & Armstrong this month but Unity just pipped it.

To be honest my top four could all be #1 this month.

[grendeljd]

1] Harbinger 18
2] Unity 1
3] Archer & Armstrong 15
4] XO 19
5] Bloodshot /HC 16
6] Eternal Warrior 3
7] Shadowman 12
8] Quantum & Woody 5

[comicsyte95]

1.] Unity #1
2.] Harbinger #18
3.] XO Manowar #19
4.] Bloodshot and the H.A.R.D. Corps #16
5.] Archer & Armstrong #15
6.] Eternal Warrior #3
7.] Shadowman #12
8.] Quantum & Woody #5

[Dallow Spicer1]

1] Unity 1 (5 out of 5)
2] Harbinger 18 (4.5/5)
3] XO 19 (3.5/5)
4] Eternal Warrior 3 (3/5)
5] Quantum & Woody 5 (3/5)
6] Bloodshot 16 (2/5)

Archer & Archer - don't read
Shadowman - picking back up at #13

Overall I thought it was an excellent month of comics. If Bloodshot can get consistent again and if Shadowman is as good as it looks like it will be then December should be a great month for Valiant readers!

[lorddunlow]

1] Unity 1 (5 out of 5)
2] Harbinger 18 (4.5/5)
3] XO 19 (3.5/5)
4] Eternal Warrior 3 (3/5)
5] Quantum & Woody 5 (3/5)
6] Bloodshot 16 (2/5)

Archer & Archer - don't read
Shadowman - picking back up at #13

Overall I thought it was an excellent month of comics. If Bloodshot can get consistent again and if Shadowman is as good as it looks like it will be then December should be a great month for Valiant readers!

I still can't believe that you don't read Archer and Armstrong, but you do read Quantum and Woody. They are seriously at opposite ends of my list with Quantum and Woody at the bottom.

[Dallow Spicer1]

1] Unity 1 (5 out of 5)
2] Harbinger 18 (4.5/5)
3] XO 19 (3.5/5)
4] Eternal Warrior 3 (3/5)
5] Quantum & Woody 5 (3/5)
6] Bloodshot 16 (2/5)

Archer & Archer - don't read
Shadowman - picking back up at #13

Overall I thought it was an excellent month of comics. If Bloodshot can get consistent again and if Shadowman is as good as it looks like it will be then December should be a great month for Valiant readers!

I still can't believe that you don't read Archer and Armstrong, but you do read Quantum and Woody. They are seriously at opposite ends of my list with Quantum and Woody at the bottom.

I tried A&A and there are lots of interesting concepts in the book but its mixed with throwaway nonsense which is put in for a cheap gag but makes no sense to the overall story. In one of the recent issues I read, Armstrong pulls up a tree out of the ground and throws it at a UFO or airplane (can't remember which), but really, he's that strong?? That's just one example they springs to mind. It's a shame because there are also interesting stuff in the book too but its not consistent enough.

Q&W is a book I was initially sceptical about as the original didn't do much for me. The writing and art in the first 4 issues was excellent, change of art in issue 5 hurt the book a bit but I'm still interested. I don't think it should be part of the VEI shared universe though as I don't think the tone fits with XO, Bloodshot etc

What has A&A got that Q&W hasn't?

[Big Red]

Unity was my top book this month.

X-O, Bloodshot & HC, and Archer & Armstrong all tied for second. All were excellent. Tough call.

X-O ended up getting my second vote.


My rankings:

Unity
X-O, Bloodshot & HC, and Archer & Armstrong
Harbinger
Eternal Warrior
Quantum & Woody
Shadowman

[Aomalle27]

Had to put A&A at number 1, it's been superb since the dawn of the Faraway arc. And although this issue strayed from the Sect War narrative, it really expounded on the strained relationship between Obie and Aram, plus added some cool interaction with Ivar, expanding the time travel possibilities and theory that VEI is going to use as a template. And it added some complexity to Obie character, evolving into a more tactile person, and it had some interaction with PRS, setting the stage for A&A vs Bloodshot. Harbinger was 2 for me, slightly ahead of Bloodshot & Hardcorps. The depth of the Harada character makes it more compelling than the battle with Harada in BSH. But only slightly. Unity, while entertaining, it was establishing back filler, which puts it into 4 for me. Eternal Warrior was 5, too much thrown in the issue plus inconsistent art, Shadowman was 6, it was different and the second story was enlightening, XO was a sad 7, the art is just too distracting for me after 3 separate readings. And lastly, QW, after a great first 3 issues, 4 was rushed and jumbled, while issue 5 was a disaster for me, art was too distracting, and the story was neither compelling nor entertaining, hope this title picks up issue 1-3 vibe again

[Aomalle27]

1] Unity 1 (5 out of 5)
2]

What has A&A got that Q&W hasn't?

Consistent writing, consistent art, humor but not too much ( I know Q&W is supposed to be over the top, but I'm just not invested in the characters, I don't really care for them, wouldn't be upset if they killed off Q&W) and as for nonsense, if you've seen the preview pages for #6 , you'll flip out. q goes on a commando mission, but fact is, if he dies, woody evaporates. So why would Woody allow it?

[Dallow Spicer1]

1] Unity 1 (5 out of 5)
2]

What has A&A got that Q&W hasn't?

Consistent writing, consistent art, humor but not too much ( I know Q&W is supposed to be over the top, but I'm just not invested in the characters, I don't really care for them, wouldn't be upset if they killed off Q&W) and as for nonsense, if you've seen the preview pages for #6 , you'll flip out. q goes on a commando mission, but fact is, if he dies, woody evaporates. So why would Woody allow it?

Haven't seen the preview for #6, but I kind of agree with what your saying. I enjoy the writing of Q&W as its one if the few comic books which actually succeeds at humour (so far). BUT, I don't think it fits in with the rest of VEI and your example of issue 6 illustrates why. I'd prefer this to be a stand alone book outside of continuity.

[Keith]

What has A&A got that Q&W hasn't?

Off the top of my head:

Introduction of the Eternal Warrior
Introduction of the Timewalker
Introduction of the Geomancers

... those are three biggees right there. Then consider this:

Our first glimpses of the future VEI, and tantalizing clues about the fates of other Valiant characters... way before the 4001 AD arc was announced in Eternal Warrior. That's not to mention the connections to other Valiant titles - Archer, a psiot with a mysterious past connected to Project Rising Spirit (and leading to an upcoming confrontation with Bloodshot and the H.A.R.D. Corps.) The Sect - made up on many organizations, including the Vine, PRS, and the Bretheren. Kozol meeting with Archer, suggesting he go after Harada. The One Percent reflecting on X-Os invasion of Hungary. Harada considering a move on The Sect... A&A has proven itself so thoroughly integrated into the VEI, more than the other titles, and reading it has made the overall tapestry of the universe a richer experience.

Also, I will argue, you will not find a more "consistent" title in the Valiant line, with Harbinger and X-O coming in close. FVL has this books "voice" down pat, and the styles of the various artists on the arcs has been wonderfully stable through the series run.

I know that taste accounts a lot for dictating what gets bought each month (I personally have zero interest in crime/pulp comics, and don't foresee reading one), but IMO, not reading A&A as a Valiant fan is doing yourself a disservice. Give the first three arcs a read, see if you don't change your mind!

[lorddunlow]

What has A&A got that Q&W hasn't?

Off the top of my head:

Introduction of the Eternal Warrior
Introduction of the Timewalker
Introduction of the Geomancers

... those are three biggees right there. Then consider this:

Our first glimpses of the future VEI, and tantalizing clues about the fates of other Valiant characters... way before the 4001 AD arc was announced in Eternal Warrior. That's not to mention the connections to other Valiant titles - Archer, a psiot with a mysterious past connected to Project Rising Spirit (and leading to an upcoming confrontation with Bloodshot and the H.A.R.D. Corps.) The Sect - made up on many organizations, including the Vine, PRS, and the Bretheren. Kozol meeting with Archer, suggesting he go after Harada. The One Percent reflecting on X-Os invasion of Hungary. Harada considering a move on The Sect... A&A has proven itself so thoroughly integrated into the VEI, more than the other titles, and reading it has made the overall tapestry of the universe a richer experience.

Also, I will argue, you will not find a more "consistent" title in the Valiant line, with Harbinger and X-O coming in close. FVL has this books "voice" down pat, and the styles of the various artists on the arcs has been wonderfully stable through the series run.

I know that taste accounts a lot for dictating what gets bought each month (I personally have zero interest in crime/pulp comics, and don't foresee reading one), but IMO, not reading A&A as a Valiant fan is doing yourself a disservice. Give the first three arcs a read, see if you don't change your mind!

Yeah, what he said. That saved me a lot of typing.

[Dallow Spicer1]

but IMO, not reading A&A as a Valiant fan is doing yourself a disservice. Give the first three arcs a read, see if you don't change your mind!

Appreciate your response Keith and there's many excellent points which I agree. FVL does brings lots of interesting concepts to the book....but....it's mixed with some not so great moments too (ie sloppy) which detracts from the overall enjoyment. I've read approximateły 9 or 10 issues so far so I gave it a fair shot.

As an aside, I didn't think the (re) introduction of EW or Timewalker was particularly good. Thankfully the characterisation of EW was handled better in XO and in EW's new title.

A lot of people do seem to like A&A a lot (Lord Dunlow !) and that's cool by me , but it's not my cup of tea I'm afraid.

[Keith]

but IMO, not reading A&A as a Valiant fan is doing yourself a disservice. Give the first three arcs a read, see if you don't change your mind!

Appreciate your response Keith and there's many excellent points which I agree. FVL does brings lots of interesting concepts to the book....but....it's mixed with some not so great moments too (ie sloppy) which detracts from the overall enjoyment. I've read approximateły 9 or 10 issues so far so I gave it a fair shot.

As an aside, I didn't think the (re) introduction of EW or Timewalker was particularly good. Thankfully the characterisation of EW was handled better in XO and in EW's new title.

A lot of people do seem to like A&A a lot (Lord Dunlow !) and that's cool by me , but it's not my cup of tea I'm afraid.

Fair enough. You gave it a shot and were able to get to an informed conclusion... can't ask for more than that! Though I do hope you'll give the upcoming crossover with a BS&HC a purchase.

[Keith]

My rankings for November:

1) Unity #1 - An excellent start, great action and intrigue. The hype was well deserved.
2) Archer & Armstrong #15 - My love affair with this title continues. A time travelling pub crawl, insight into Ivar, and fascinating beer facts. What's not to love?
3) Harbinger #18 - Almost tied for 2nd with A&A, great story and I can't wait for the climx, but the art... too rough, too many times.
4) Bloodshot and H.A.R.D. Corps #16 - Another strong issue for the premier arc, but the competition kept this one from a higher ranking
5) X-O Manowar #19 - Excellent UNITY tie in, but overall not compelling enough to rank higher
6) Eternal Warrior #3 - Not bad, but not great. Little confused on some aspects of the story, and not a Hairsine fan
7) Quantum & Woody #5 - Story, while enjoyable, lacked the impact of the first arc, and I'm just not feeling the Ming Doyle love.
8) Shadowman #12 - Is #13 here yet?

[Aomalle27]

but IMO, not reading A&A as a Valiant fan is doing yourself a disservice. Give the first three arcs a read, see if you don't change your mind!

As an aside, I didn't think the (re) introduction of EW or Timewalker was particularly good. Thankfully the characterisation of EW was handled better in XO and in EW's new title.

A lot of people do seem to like A&A a lot (Lord Dunlow !) and that's cool by me , but it's not my cup of tea I'm afraid.

I'm curious which issues you read, because I also didn't care for the EW arc, nor the first for that matter, but since arc 3, the Faraway, this title has just blown me away. So if issues 1-8 were your reads, I understAnd your skeptisism towards the book, but if you read the faraway and the zero issue, then I'm at a loss as to why you don't like A&A and complain about silliness when Q&W take it well beyond silliness

[Dallow Spicer1]

but IMO, not reading A&A as a Valiant fan is doing yourself a disservice. Give the first three arcs a read, see if you don't change your mind!

As an aside, I didn't think the (re) introduction of EW or Timewalker was particularly good. Thankfully the characterisation of EW was handled better in XO and in EW's new title.

A lot of people do seem to like A&A a lot (Lord Dunlow !) and that's cool by me , but it's not my cup of tea I'm afraid.

I'm curious which issues you read, because I also didn't care for the EW arc, nor the first for that matter, but since arc 3, the Faraway, this title has just blown me away. So if issues 1-8 were your reads, I understAnd your skeptisism towards the book, but if you read the faraway and the zero issue, then I'm at a loss as to why you don't like A&A and complain about silliness when Q&W take it well beyond silliness

My quote about A&A being silly probably needs clarifying. I think one if my main issues is that the action is often 'cartoony' (ie exaggerated) and I'm not sure if that is the artist of the writer? I've read zero and issues 11 and 12 and there's plenty of decent story lines but the series as a whole doesn't hook me in. Maybe I'll re-read it at some point and I'll be able to get past some of the annoying trivial stuff eg they've worn the same clothes in every issues regardless of weather, fight scenes etc, Armstrong can throw trees and didnt he catapult himself at airplane in one issue (of course his hat stays on at all times!?)?
If some of the detail could be addressed then I'd probably get on board with this being as good as other board members seem to think.