Thor, Herc and John Carter among heroes of comic-book challenge catch-up post

Here’s an abbreviated rundown of several comics I’ve read over the past 2 weeks, but haven’t had time to post about.

Herc 1-2 – Fred Van Lente and Greg Pak are writing a street-level Herc in a fish out of water type tale that should appeal to fans of the “Thor” movie.  Artist Neil Edwards has a touch of classic John Byrne to him.   It’s a good mix of action and humor that I hope finds an audience.

Avengers 12, 12.1 – Brian Michael Bendis and John Romita Jr. wrap up the Infinity Gauntlet storyline.  In 12.1, Bendis and Bryan Hitch create a standalone adventure with Ultron, tying into Tony Stark’s map of the future.

Incredible Hulks 626-627 – Hulk, in James Bond-style wear, tries to stop the opening of Pandora’s Box.  Tom Grummett is always a capable artist, and Greg Pak has written some great Hulk stories.

Ruse #1 - Reintroducing the detective series from CrossGen written by Mark Waid.  Loved the original series, liked this. Will stick it out through the run.

Mighty Thor #1 - Matt Fraction’s Thor is solid and well-done, but the #1 is more for the movie folks; it’s not dramatically different from what Fraction has been doing.  OK, but not fantastic.

Action Comics #900 - The “citizenship” back-up story overshadowed in the press the main event of the conclusion of Paul Cornell’s Lex Luthor arc.  But Cornell finishes up well here, if you can find a copy. (Second print is coming.)