April Previews means Pride books! April Previews means Pride books! Okay, so that will never become an old cliche like “April showers bring May flowers” but damn it, it’s true! Sure, June is Pride month and publishers are (finally) promoting their books ahead of any “official” Previews promotion that in past years happened in June. Since Previews solicits are always solicit books two months (and sometimes more) in advance it meant Pride books were available two months later in August. That same time lag affects other Preview promotions marking Black History and Women’s History too.
Here are a few books and comics tempting you! The GLAAD Award winning Young Men In Love anthology co-edited by Joe Glass and Matt Miner is reoffered if you missed finding a copy last year (A Wave Blue World); a new Fence limited series by C S Pacat and Johanna The Mad (BOOM); Specs tradepaper back collecting the mini by David M Booher and Chris Shehan (BOOM); Gaelle Geniller’s A Boy Named Rose (Fairsquare); in case you missed the Kickstarter, Pool Boys by Josh Trujillo and Josh Cornillon (Headless Shakespeare); Mattie Lubchansky’s Boys Weekend (Pantheon); David Hazan and Alex Moore’s Death Drop Drag Assassin from Scout Comics is generating buzz already too! And these aren’t even half the books!
Looking for comics from DC, Marvel, Image, Dark Horse, and IDW? You’ll find them over here in part two.
Credit where credit is due – Andy Mangels because this was his idea and wrote many such lists and to Mike McDermott for his suggestions and input about several series that have been added to the list! Notice something missing that should be on the list? Please send a message!
Your support of local comic shop or indy bookstore is more important now than before so please consider ordering from them! Want to find a comic shop? Comic Shop Locator will do that for you!
Shopping with Amazon? Just bookmark and use our affiliate link to make some or all of your purchases and you can benefit Gay League with a small commission from Amazon! You won’t pay a penny extra! This will work even if you use these links to put something on your wish list for later!
A WAVE BLUE WORLD
YOUNG MEN IN LOVE $19.99 Page 273
Haphazard pirates, wayward ghosts, dashing knights, rampaging kaiju (and down-to-earth regular joes!) are all assembled here to amaze and delight you in a wildly unique anthology celebrating love between men, from an astounding array of comics creators who know exactly how it feels. Young Men in Love is a heartwarming, uplifting, and vibrant return to the glory days of romance comics! APR231232 (OFFERED AGAIN)
ABLAZE
MIGHTY BARBARIANS #3 $3.99 Page 231
Michael Moreci and Giuseppe Cafaro
From the writer of Barbaric comes the world-hopping, skull-crushing adventures of The Mighty Barbarians! They’re barbarians. They loot, they plunder, they conquer. That’s what they do, and they do it alone…until now! The quest continues as the barbarian team ventures into the Lost Realm to make an exchange for one of the orbs they need to save their worlds. But one doesn’t simply walk into the Lost Realm…not unless they’re ready to battle T-Rex or two along the way. But a world filled with dinosaurs isn’t their biggest problem–that would be Claudia, Morgan Le Fay’s evil sister! Before The Avengers, The Justice League, The X-Men, before it all…stood The Mighty Barbarians! APR231051
TRAVELING TO MARS #7 $3.99 Page 232
Mark Russell and Roberto Meli
Roy says his final good-byes to the people of Earth as he prepares to land on Mars. He thinks back to his wedding day and wonders if he will hear from the love of his life before breaking off all contact with the Earth. APR231060
ABRAMS PRESS
DIRTY PICTURES HOW REBELS INVENTED COMIX SC $18.00 Page 245
Brian Doherty
In the 1950s, comics meant POW! BAM! superheroes, family-friendly gags, and Sunday funnies, but in the 1960s, inspired by these strips and the satire of MAD magazine, a new generation of creators set out to subvert the medium, and with it, American culture. Their “comix,” spelled that way to distinguish the work from their dime-store contemporaries, presented tales of taboo sex, casual drug use, and a transgressive view of society. Embraced by hippies and legions of future creatives, this subgenre of comic books and strips often ran afoul of the law, but that would not stop them from casting cultural ripples for decades to come, eventually moving the entire comics form beyond the gutter and into fine-art galleries. Through dozens of new interviews and archival research, Doherty chronicles the scenes that sprang up around the country in the 1960s and ’70s, beginning with the artists’ origin stories and following them through success and strife, and concluding with an examination of these creators’ legacies.
Comics History APR231089
ABSTRACT STUDIOS
PARKER GIRLS #8 $3.99 Page 245
Terry Moore
The Parker Girls go to war against billionaire Zackary May who holds Katchoo hostage in a dangerous game of global chess. While Tambi and her team attempt to locate Katchoo, May sells the world on his plan to use his satellite network to solve global warming. But Tambi knows those satellites will also be May’s ultimate weapon. Can the Parker Girls stop a man who seems unstoppable? APR231091
STRANGERS IN PARADISE TP VOL 1 $26.95 Page 245
Terry Moore
The multi-award-winning series Strangers In Paradise gets a brand new update in four exciting volumes! Strangers in Paradise is the compelling love story of three unlikely friends who find themselves bound together by their pasts. Katchoo is a beautiful young woman living in the spare bedroom of her high school friend, Francine. Brash and outspoken, Katchoo makes no secret of her love for Francine but that’s not an option for the shy, insecure woman who looks for Prince Charming in a series of bad boyfriends. Enter David, a gentle but persistent artist who seems determined to win Katchoo’s heart. The resulting triangle is a touching comedy of romantic errors that takes the trio down a complicated road of murder, mayhem, and love featuring an array of characters including crime bosses, psychopaths, and well-meaning friends. Strangers In Paradise is a funny, yet complicated multi-genre graphic novel that is sure to satisfy many tastes. APR231090
AFTERSHOCK / SEISMIC
All of Aftershock’s books this month are reofferings of already published trades. It’s a good opportunity to pick up something you’ve missed!
ANIMOSITY HC VOL 1 YEAR ONE $39.99 Page 192
Marguerite Bennett and Rafael De Latorre
One day, for no reason, the Animals woke up. They started thinking. They started talking. They started taking revenge. The world is plunged into chaos as the newly-intelligent Animals fight humanity, and simply fight each other, for their own life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. In the midst of the turmoil is Jesse, an 11-year-old girl, and her dog, Sandor, who is devoted to her and her protection. One year after the incident, Jesse and Sandor begin a cross-country journey to find Jesse’s half-brother, Adam, who is living in San Francisco. APR230997
ANIMOSITY OMNIBUS HC $125.00 Page 192
Marguerite Bennett, Rafael de Latorre, and Elton Thomasi =
The complete series in one massive mammal-friendly 600+ page hardcover! One day, the Animals woke up. They started thinking. They started talking. They started taking revenge. Now, a dog and his girl are trying to get away – out of New York City, and all the way to San Francisco, to the only person who might be able to protect and save her. Follow Jesse and her dog, Sandor on their travels, where they’ll meet the Animal Army, be introduced to a Queen Bee, escape the clutches of a terrible boarding school, and navigate the apocalyptic landscape of America, all while meeting friends and making enemies.This volume contains the entire groundbreaking series, issues #1-28 and the FCBD issue from 2019. APR230994
ANIMOSITY TP VOL 1 $14.99 Page 192
Marguerite Bennett, Rafael De Latorre, Juan Doe
One day, for no reason, the Animals woke up. They started thinking. They started talking. They started taking REVENGE. Collecting the first four issues of the best-selling series, plus the special one-shot issue Animosity: The Rise. The world is plunged into chaos as the newly-intelligent Animals fight humanity, and simply fight each other, for their own life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. In the midst of the turmoil is Jesse, an 11-year-old girl, and her dog, Sandor, who is devoted to her and her protection. One year after the incident, Jesse and Sandor begin a cross-country journey to find Jesse’s half-brother, Adam, who is living in San Francisco. Don’t miss out on this fantastic first collection of the series everyiobe is talking about! APR230963
ANIMOSITY TP VOL 2 $14.99 Page 192
Marguerite Bennett and Rafael De Latorre
As Jesse, an 11-year-old girl, and Sandor, her faithful and protective bloodhound, continue their cross-country journey, their faith in life, death – and each other – is tested at last. Collects #5-8 and the World of Animosity one-shot. APR230964
ANIMOSITY TP VOL 3 THE SWARM $14.99 Page 192
Marguerite Bennett and Rafael De Latorre
Tensions run high as betrayal stings Jesse in a way she could have never imagined. Can Kyle shed his humanity enough to aid Jesse in her quest? Can Sandor forsake his bestial nature in order to save that which he loves? The answers lie within! Meanwhile, Sandor, Jesse and the survivors hear rumors of a mysterious Walled City where safety may be waiting…but will their journey there be too high a price to pay? Collecting #9-13-all five issues from the third story arc of this highly-acclaimed series! APR230965
ANIMOSITY TP VOL 4 WALLED CITY $14.99 Page 192
Marguerite Bennett, Rafael De Latorre & Various
One day, the Animals woke up. They started thinking. They started talking. They started taking revenge. Jesse and her hound dog, Sandor, have been on the road traveling from New York City to San Francisco to reunite Jesse with her half-brother. They’ve seen many sights and met many animals and humans, some good, some very bad. Now Jesse has been kidnapped and separated from Sandor. The old hound dog will stop at nothing to return to his cowgirl, but there are some things Sandor can’t shield Jesse from, and once innocence is lost, it’s lost forever. Collecting issues #14-18. APR230966
HORDE HC $19.99 Page 193
Marguerite Bennett and Leila Leiz
After the death of her father, Ruby Ando tries to reconnect with her estranged and isolated mother, whose hoarder house is a nightmare labyrinth of secrets and dangers. All the love Ruby was never shown she sees her mother lavish on her treasures and trinkets, the possessions that possess her. But when Ruby desperately tries to free her mother, the house wages war, ensnar-ing both women within its maze. Brought to hideous and twisted life by a mother’s love, the “Horde” is determined to purge Ruby from the collection-or see her join it forever. APR230995
INSEXTS TP VOL 1 $19.99 Page 193
Marguerite Bennett and Ariela Kristantina
Collecting the first seven issues of the hit series Insexts, from writer Marguerite Bennett and artist Ariela Kristantina. At the dusk of a century, a pair of vengeful Victorian vixens discover a horrifying power that transforms them into rich and strange new creatures. Armed with their dark, evolving forms, they descend into a world of the cultured and occult, with new senses and new sensuality, to forge a life for themselves and the child of their love. APR230978
INSEXTS YEAR ONE HC $44.99 Page 193
Marguerite Bennett and Ariela Kristantina
Collecting the complete Insexts series in one volume! At the dusk of a century, a pair of vengeful Victorian vixens discover a horrifying power that transforms them into rich and strange new creatures. Armed with their dark, evolving forms, they descend into a world of the cultured and occult, with new senses and new sensuality, to forge a life for themselves and the child of their love. This new monthly series is the brainchild of writer Marguerite Bennett and artist Ariela Kristantina, a comic unlike any you’ve seen before! APR230996
KILL A MAN OGN $17.99 Page 197
Steve Orlando, Philip Kennedy Johnson, and Alec Morgan
As a child, James Bellyi watched his father die in the ring as payback for slurs thrown at the other fighter. Today, he’s a Mixed Martial Arts star at the top of his game, and one of the most popular fighters in the world…until he’s outed as gay in his title shot press con-ference. Abandoned overnight by his training camp, his endorsements, his fans and his sport, to regain his title shot Bellyi is forced to turn to the last person he ever wants to see again: Xavier Mayne, a gay, once-great fighter in his own right…and the man James once watched kill his father. A singular achievement from writers Steve Orlando and Phillip K. Johnson with art from Alec Morgan. APR230990
PARTY & PREY OGN $17.99 Page 197
Steve Orlando, Steve Foxe, and Alex Sanchez
Alan is used to being ignored by younger guys, so he hardly believes his luck when lithe, handsome Scott makes a move on him in the crowded gay club. But there’s a wolf on the dance floor tonight, and he’s hungry for fresh prey. A taboo-breaking queer thriller from co-writers Steve Orlando and Steve Fox and artist Alex Sanchez, packed with twists sharp enough to draw blood. APR230988
PROJECT PATRON TP $16.99 Page 197
Steve Orlando and Patrick Piazzalunga
Thirty years ago, the world watched in horror as The Patron, a hero sent as humanitarian aid from a different dimension, went punch for punch with WOE, a primordial beast and a perfect match for our mighty protector. In the end, hero and villain alike fell…but the Patron returned – and continues to defend us to this day! At least, that’s what we’ve all been told.The truth is, the Patron died that day along with Woe. The UN replaced the Patron with a Reploid, designed to mimic the real Patron and continue on his mission of protection. Today, the Patron Reploid is secretly piloted by an elite team – a team prepared for anything… except for the death of one of their own. A deep dive into the underside of the superhero mythos as only writer Steve Orlando can tell it. Illustrated by Patrick Piazzalunga, this volume contains issues #1-5. APR230989
AHOY COMICS
SECOND COMING TRINITY #3 $4.99 Page 248
Mark Russell, Richard Pace, and Leonard Kirk
Second Coming’s ‘sensitive exploration of faith, hero worship, and the way both exist in today’s popular culture-all wrapped up in a mixed-match buddy comedy’ (THR) continues as superhero Sunstar and his roommate, Jesus Christ, take turns on babysitting duty! But Jesus may be even more of a ‘problem child’ than Sunstar’s extra-powered son. 0423AH233
BLACK MASK STUDIOS
DESTINY NY MYSTICAL MAFIA #2 $4.99 Page 280
Pat Shand and Elisa Romboli
A funeral brings old and new friends together while a chaos god works in the background to ensure his horrific plans succeed. All the while, Lilith ponders over what to do about her relationship with Logan… and makes a life-changing decision. APR231249
BLUE FOX COMICS
SHED GN $19.99 Page 284
Richard Fairgray and Lucy Campagnolo
It doesn’t matter if it’s happy if all you’re looking for is an ending. Small towns and small minds versus big dreams and big lobsters. After the death of her father, Amber seeks refuge in his small town, reopening his junk shop and looking for the happy ending she’s seen in so many movies–the one where a young woman relocates and dates two men. The one where you know exactly what you’ll do for the rest of your life by the time you hit 30. The one that shouldn’t be examined too closely by anyone who’s slumped into it. APR231274
BOOM
FENCE REDEMPTION #1 $4.99 Page 100
C.S. Pacat and Johanna the Mad
USA Today best-selling author C. S. Pacat and acclaimed cartoonist Johanna the Mad continue their winning streak with the continuation of the on-point GLAAD Media Award-nominated series! Return to the thrilling world of high-stakes, competitive fencing with a brand new story featuring the beloved cast of characters from the original hit series. Are Senji and Jesse really through? The rumors around Halverton, the prestigious fencing training camp, have spread like wildfire, but it’s not long before a mystery fencer arrives-one who may finally pose a threat to the #1 spot. Will Senji’s unquenchable quest for rivalry be what finally makes him leave Nicholas behind? APR230323
NEIGHBORS #4 $4.99 Page 122
Jude Ellison S. Doyle and Letizia Cadonici
Sometimes the strangest worlds require the most unusual and unexpected alliances. Maw author Jude Ellison S. Doyle and House of Slaughter artist Letizia Cadonici pull the Gowdie family deeper down the rabbit hole as the finale approaches! But where alliances form, paranoia can also grow, and an ominous encounter with Isobel rocks Oliver to the core. APR230375
SEASONS HAVE TEETH #3 $4.99 Page 116
Dan Watters and Sebastian Cabrol
While the Summer photos are a sensation, Autumn is a different beast altogether, and not just because the stationary lair of decay takes up the entirety of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, threatening another meltdown. It’s the time of guilt for Andrew, where his life started to wither as well, but can it do any more harm in the present than it has in the past? Readers will find out in the thrilling and timely penultimate issue before winter and the grand finale arrives! APR230374
SPECS TP $14.99 Page 126
David M. Booher and Chris Shehan
Small town. Ohio, 1986. All Kenny and Ted want is to not feel like outcasts. What happens when a pair of X-ray glasses mysteriously appear? The magic specs open a world of possibilities for these misfit teens through the granting of literal wishes! Things start out innocent, but when they wish that their bully would disappear, things take a cursed turn, with far darker consequences than they thought possible. In this mysterious and nostalgic tale from writer David M. Booher and artist Chris Shehan, Kenny and Ted realize they’ve received much more than they bargained for. Collects Specs #1-4. APR230386
VAMPIRE SLAYER (BUFFY) #15 $4.99 Page 128
Sarah Gailey and Kath Lobo
In the continuing adventures of Buffy’s returned Slayer status, Willow and Xander find themselves caught in a snare-somewhere between snack and sacrifice! With the gang gearing up for a rescue, it’s not long before Drusilla also puts Faith and Buffy in danger with unexpected help. APR230395
VAMPIRE SLAYER (BUFFY) VOL 3 $16.99 Page 128
Sarah Gailey and Hannah Templer
While Xander gets ready for a monstrous confrontation, he finds a new one in his relationship as well…a fight that could mean the end in more ways than one. But Willow and Faith are one step ahead of Xander. Needing supernatural aid, will Willow push herself to a place she may not be able to return from? Despite Giles’ efforts, they may have to live with an irreversible spell. And as Buffy recuperates from the previous battle that’s left her worse for wear, she’ll team up with someone just as reluctant to do so.
Can Buffy remember who she was and save Willow from herself as well as Sunnydale from total destruction? Writer Sarah Gailey and artist Hannah Templer conclude the first year of the Willowverse storyline! Collects The Vampire Slayer #9-12. APR230398
WYND HC BOOK 3 THRONE IN THE SKY TP $14.99 Page 124
James Tynion IV and Michael Dialynas
The land of Esseriel is a darker and more dangerous place than ever, as tensions between the Human and Faerie realms build to the brink of war. Could Wynd be the only hope for peace? Danger, betrayal, and even some romance confront our heroes at every turn, while elsewhere, the Duke makes murderous plans of his own. Things seem dire, but help from an unexpected figure might just be the lifeline Wynd and Merien need… even though the final battle draws near. The Eisner and GLAAD-nominated Wynd saga continues in this epic new volume from Eisner Award-winning writer James Tynion IV and artist Michael Dialynas, the GLAAD Award-winning creative team behind The Woods. APR230379
DEL REY
LUDA SC NOVEL $18.00 Page 303
Grant Morrison
A drag queen initiates her protegee into the magical arts in this phantasmagoric epic, the first novel from legendary comics writer and New York Times-bestselling author Grant Morrison. Luci LaBang is a star: For decades this flamboyant drag artist has cast a spell over screen and stage. Now she’s the leading lady in a smash hit musical. But as time takes its toll, Luci fears her star is beginning to dim. When Luci’s co-star meets with a mysterious accident, a new ingenue shimmers onto the scene: Luda, whose fantastical beauty and sinister charm infatuate Luci immediately… and who bears a striking resemblance to Luci herself at a much younger age. Luda begs Luci to share the secrets of her stardom and to reveal the hidden tricks of her trade. For Luci LaBang is a mistress of the Glamour, a mysterious discipline that draws on sex, drugs, and the occult for its trancelike, transformative effects. But as Luci tutors her young protegee, she wonders if Luda has mastered the Glamour all too well… and exploited it to achieve her dark ambitions.(Offered again) APR231388
DENPA BOOKS
HAPPY CRAPPY LIFE VOL 2 $14.95 Page 475
Kasuya’s future as an elite banker looks seriously in doubt as he has been demoted to the boonies. His social life is also looking poor given how there are not many people his age in the area who are single, his age, or even remotely share his interests… outside of maybe his neighbor, Kuzuya. But while they both share the same kinks and both enjoy drinking heavily, they’d both rather make it big in the capital (hopefully in the arms of a strong dominating lady!). Well, at least in Kasuya’s case, that “dream gal” has come searching for him! His ex is back and she’s about to discover his secrets. APR232168
DRAWN & QUARTERLY
RAVE $22.95 Page 305
Jessica Campbell
It’s the early 2000s. Lauren is fifteen, soft-spoken, and ashamed of her body. When her bible-thumping parents forbid Lauren to bring evolution textbooks home, she opts to study at her schoolmate Mariah’s house. That evening Mariah gives Lauren a makeover and they have what becomes Lauren’s first queer encounter. Jessica Campbell uses frankness and dark humour to articulate Lauren’s burgeoning crisis of faith and sexuality. Rave is a coming of age story about the secret spaces young women create and the wider social structures that fail them. (OFFERED AGAIN) APR231398
FAIRSQUARE COMICS
A BOY NAMED ROSE TP $29.99 Page 313
Gaelle Geniller
Paris. The 1920s. Rose is a boy and, like all the girls he’s spent time with since he was born, he wants to dance at “Le Jardin”, the cabaret managed by his mother. As Rose blossoms into a 19 year old young man, he discovers love and tries to find his place in a society that’s not ready to welcome true love between two men with open arms. PRIDE Month is there and we decided to celebrate Love like there’s no tomorrow! Created and beautifully drawn by Gaelle Geniller, A Boy Named Rose is going to make you fall in love with this story, set in Art Deco Paris and where a young man discovers who he really is in a place filled with entertainment and drama. What is Rose’s place in the world? Is he just a boy? Is he a girl inside? Rose just wants to be accepted for who he really is and live, love and dance as free as he can be. A beautiful LGBTQIA+ tale from a time where loving different ly was a challenge, A Boy Named Rose will move you, in all its subtleness and tenderness. APR231447
FANTAGRAPHICS
WEREWOLF JONES & SONS DELUXE SUMMER FUN ANNUAL HC $19.99
Simon Hanselmann and Josh Pettinger
In the tradition of the British hardback annuals comes the Werewolf Jones & Sons Deluxe Summer Fun Annual! One hundred fun-filled pages of spoofs and goofs for the whole family to enjoy (no minors allowed)! Put together with lots of love by Simon Hanselmann and rising underground star Josh Pettinger (Goiter, Power Wash). Get ready for one of the hottest summers on record (not merely due to rising climate-based anomalies)! APR231451
FLOATING WORLD COMICS
I NEVER FOUND YOU GN $19.95 Page 318
Emma Jon-Michael Frank
In I Never Found You, a queer birdwatcher finds something macabre and grisly in the woods entering him into a strange and desperate world. Part murder mystery, and part mystery of the self, I Never Found You is a story about belonging and love, in a world made increasingly hostile by dark human influence. APR231489
HARPER ALLEY
NORTHRANGER GN $18.99 Page 326
Rey Terciero and Bre Indigo
Cade has always loved to escape into the world of a good horror movie. After all, horror movies are scary–but to Cade, a closeted queer Latino teen growing up in rural Texas–real life can be way scarier. Cade’s plan to lie low at the movie theater all summer is disrupted when he’s forced to help his stepfather, Dale, work on the ranch of Dale’s old army general in order to earn some extra money for their financially struggling family. Cade hates everything about the ranch, from the early mornings to the piles and piles of horse poop. The only silver lining is the company of the General’s two teen kids, who also live on the ranch–in particular, the ruggedly handsome and friendly Henry. But as unexpected sparks begin to fly between Cade and Henry, things get… complicated. Henry is reluctant to share the details of his mother’s death, and Cade begins to wonder what else he might be hiding. Inspired by the gothic romance of Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey comes a modern story of romance for today’s teen reader. APR231505
HEADLESS SHAKESPEARE PRESS
POOL BOYS #1 $7.99 Page 327
Josh Trujillo and Josh Cornillon
Pool Boys welcomes you to the interdimensional Solitaire Resort. This steamy romance focuses on found love, fleeting connections, and the fun we have along the way. Featuring pinups by Sina Grace, Luciano Vecchio, Jacoby Saucedo, and more, with a cover by David Talaski. APR231510
HIPPO PARK
LOVE REPORT GN $12.99
Beka and Maya
BFFs Grace and Lola talk about everything related to romance–and have lots of questions: What about the mysterious allure of the popular girl at school? And the rebellious goth with the reputation? And boys. They don’t quite understand what makes some school romances soar to legendary heights, while other flirtations fizzle. Lola has an idea–they’ll observe, study, and analyze all the couples at their Junior High–and compile their findings as The Love Report. Surprises await them, and force them to learn to see beyond appearances in this fast-paced series opener. They’ll also discover secrets between themselves. APR231522
IGNITE ENTERTAINMENT
ARENA TAKES MANHATTAN GN $14.95 Page 354
Jeff Krell and Sue Bielenberg
After being left at the altar, Arena retreats to Manhattan and joins her family’s ad agency. Arena takes off on her own in a career girl humor comic titled “Arena Takes Manhattan.” It’s in the tradition of Millie the Model and Katy Keene, but with a more modern sensibility. APR231634
LEV GLEASON
HERO BUSINESS COMPENDIUM SC $79.99 Page 359
Bill Walko
New Friday is proud to present The Hero Business! Bill Walko’s critically acclaimed series collected into one oversized format! Imagine your office, bitten by a radioactive spider. That’s The Hero Business, a comic chronicling the day-to-day adventures of an agency that caters exclusively to super-heroes (and their super-egos). Because with great power comes great marketability! (OFFERED AGAIN) APR231667
MAD CAVE STUDIOS
YOU’VE BEEN CANCELLED #1 $4.99 Page 362
Curt Pires, Kevin Castaneiro, and Jason Wordie
In the near future, cancel culture means more than just losing your job…it could mean your life. The world’s premier entertainment event is cancelled – a live-streamed program where elite bounty hunters called cancellers kill individuals who society has voted to ‘cancel’ following heinous actions or offenses. Our story follows Roland Endo, the world’s #1 ranked Canceller. Because of this status, Roland lives in a constant state of paranoia with a target on his back. 0423MA261
EXORCISTS NEVER DIE #3 $4.99 Page 366
Steve Orlando and Sebastian Piriz
For Syd Miller and Ellen Blair, every victory on the way down through the Hellscraper is the kickoff of the next fight! Having barely lived through their battle with Lust, Syd and Ellen have racked up another win. Unfortunately, that makes them easy prey for the next demonic sin in waiting: Gluttony. After all, what’s tastier than glory, and who could possibly ever get enough of it? Thousands of souls wait for the chopping block many floors below, but if Syd and Ellen can’t exorcise Gluttony, they’ll never reach the bottom of the Hellscraper for the save. Unfortunately, the odds don’t look good. Syd’s gloryhogging already killed his relationship with Ellen years ago, and now it might just get both of them killed! Can the man who’s never sacrificed a day in his life do so in time to survive?, 0423MA254
MONOMYTH #2 $3.99 Page 362
David Hazan, Cecilia Lo Valvo, and Marissa Louise
Our potential wizards now know magic is real, but shadowy apparitions stalk them in the bowels of the castle. Monomyth is an all-new mini-series from the mind of David Hazan (Nottingham). 0423MA258
ONI PRESS
PARALLEL TP $29.99 Page 384
Matthias Lehmann
Karl Kling’s story is one of revelations, and these he has addressed in a letter to his daughter, Hella, who had disowned Karl many years ago. Karl’s letter is a cri de coeur from a father to a daughter he never really got to know, and he comes clean to her about his failed marriages, his fractured family relations–and his love for men. Taking place between the end of World War II and the 1980s, Parallel chronicles Karl’s efforts to comply with social norms in order to keep his sexuality a secret. It also paints a picture of a life torn between conformity and rebellion, and the cruel realities of twentieth-century German society, where homosexuality was proscribed and punishable until 1994. Matthias Lehmann poignantly depicts the story of a decades-long yearning to live an open and free life, and the price Karl and those he loves must pay for it. It is also a story of finding the courage to finally tell the truth no matter the obstacles…or the cost. 0423ON266
TURNING JAPANESE HC EXPANDED EDITION $29.99 Page 385
MariNaomi
The year is 1995. Fresh out of a long-term relationship, twenty-two-year-old MariNaomi finds herself amidst a flurry of major lifechanges. Newly immersed in the pan-Asian diaspora of San Jose, California, half-Japanese Mari searches for connections to a culture that has so far eluded her. It doesn’t take long for Mari to find new love and a new job–at a hostess bar for Japanese expats–in a bid to learn the language and culture.Turning Japanesefollows Mari from Northern California to Tokyo, Japan, as she tries to get by in an unfamiliar city with rudimentary language skills–all in the hopes of finally connecting with her Japanese relatives without theuse of her mother as a translator. Turning Japanese: Expanded Edition includes new story pages that bring fresh insight and a new resolution to this classic comics memoir of our times. 0423ON269
PANTHEON
BOYS WEEKEND HC GN $28.00 Page 387
Mattie Lubchansky
Part satire, part horror, Boys Weekend explores what it’s like to exist as a transfemme person in a man’s world, the difficulty of maintaining friendships through transition, and the more cult-like effects of masculinity, “hustle” culture, and capitalism–all through the vibrant lens of a surreal, scary, and immensely imaginative romp. Newly-out trans artist’s assistant Sammie is invited to an old friend’s bachelor weekend in El Campo, a hedonistic wonderland of a city floating in the Atlantic Ocean’s international waters–think Las Vegas with even fewer rules. Though they have not identified as a man for over a year, Sammie’s college buddies haven’t quite gotten the message–as evidenced by their formerly closest friend Adam asking them to be his “best man.” Bad enough that they have to suffer through a torrent of passive-aggressive comments from the groom’s pals–all met with zero pushpack from supposed “nice guy” Adam. But also, they seem to be the only one who’s noticed the mysterious cult that’s also staying at the hotel, and is ritually dismembering guests and demanding fealty to their bloodthirsty god. APR231746
ROSARIUM PUBLISHING
GENDER STUDIES CONFESSIONS OF ACCIDENTAL OUTLAW GN $9.95 Page 393
Ajuan Mance
Ajuan Mance gives comic treatment to the challenges, complexities, and occasional absurdity of life at the crossroads of race, gender, and geekiness. This graphic memoir answers important questions like: How many preschoolers have to mistake you for your dad before you actually start to forget your own name; if a Black girl is awful at double-dutch jump rope is it a reflection on her gender identity, racial identity, or both; and is viola player a gender or just a sexual orientation? Ajuan Mance’s comic Gender Confessions take up each of these questions and more, as it invites to share in those moments that mark the path of a gender explorer. APR231790
SCOUT COMICS
DEATH DROP DRAG ASSASSIN #1 $4.99 Page 393
David Hazan and Alex Moore
Death Drop, a hitman turned drag queen, enters a race against time to find her missing drag sister as a mysterious rash of killings and disappearances spreads across the city. With the specter of her former mentor haunting her every step, Death Drop must decide how far she is willing to be pulled back into a life of violence in order to protect her community in this supernatural queer noir. 0423SC279
TRANCE #1 PRIDE VAR $9.99 Page 396
Joey Capuana and Pablo Moreno Collar
Special Pride edition one-shot. Welcome to Trance Nightclub, a queer hotspot beloved for heavy pours, sexy gogo dancers, and drag shows that change your whole life. Trance’s patrons don’t suspect that their favorite gay watering hole is run by a coven of witches! When a serial killer stalks the LGBTQIA+ community, these partying witches must get deadly serious, finding themselves unlikely detectives in a twisted supernatural mystery. They must clash with local police and witch law enforcement alike, and face off against powerful Satanic forces, all to protect their chosen family. Mature Audiences. 0423SC307
SILVER SPROCKET
LSBN OGN $14.99 Page 398
Emma Jayne and Sloane Leong
A lesbian mech rom-com graphic novel by Ignatz and Prism Award-winning cartoonist Emma Jayne! After many grueling years of defending against colossal, violent creatures, the machine that will turn the conflict in humanity’s favor is nearing completion…until the war unexpectedly comes to a sudden, peaceful resolution. The world rejoices. However, two women fall into crisis as their life’s work becomes obsolete. Commander Sugimoto and her lead engineer Mischa Polyakov have spent nearly every waking moment together since the project’s inception, but without the pretense of their careers and world-ending calamity, do they have a reason to stay in one another’s lives? Recommended for mature readers. 0423SP325
PROKARYOTE SEASON OGN $24.99 Page 398
Leo Fox
“A single-celled organism doesn’t toil. It doesn’t stare at the ceiling and cry. It doesn’t have ill-fitting clothes. It doesn’t do anything, that’s the whole point. It just is.” Sydney and Laurelie are best friends searching for the contentment of oblivion. Failing that, they’d like to be adored. Laurelie, by their caustic boyfriend Trip, and Sydney by Laurelie. On a typical night partying in the woods, Sydney grows frustrated with their unrequited obsession for Laurelie, and asks for a wish to be granted by the curious cosmic creature Starman. Not only will Laurelie love Sydney, but Laurelie will be dependent on them – will need to be saved by them. When the wish becomes deadly serious, Sydney and Trip will be forced to figure out how to save Laurelie for real, or risk losing the person most important to them both. A beautifully illustrated graphic novel about sickness, ennui, romance, and finding meaning in one’s own self. Presented with foil-accented cover. 0423SP326
SUBLIME
DRAGONS BETROTHED VOL 2 $12.99 Page 455
Meguru Hinohara
Troubled writer Chiharu Izunome is betrothed to Rin, the local water dragon god. Despite Rin’s gentle demeanor, when a supernatural intruder threatens his husband-to-be, the angry deity unleashes the full might of his beastly fury, injuring Chiharu in the process! With Rin’s destructive power so clearly laid out, fear displaces the fragile affection growing in Chiharu’s heart. Can he truly learn to love a monster? APR232073
OLD FASHIONED CUPCAKE $12.99 Page 455
Sagan Sagan
At 39 years old, Nozue lives a routine, if not melancholic, life of sleep and work. Togawa, his younger subordinate, finds it troubling and takes it upon himself to shake up Nozue’s routine. During a lunch outing, the two go to a pancake shop full of exuberant young ladies to “do what girls do,” and it’s just the thing to breathe life into Nozue. The two men start an unlikely friendship-and perhaps something a little sweeter! APR232072
TOKYO POP
CAT PROPOSED MANGA $14.99 Page 478
Dento Hayane
Matoi Souta is an overworked office worker tired of his life. Then, on his way home from a long day of work one day, he decides to watch a traditional Japanese play. But something strange happens. He could have sworn he saw one of the actors has cat ears. It turns out that the man is actually a bakeneko — a shapeshifting cat from Japanese folklore. And then, the cat speaks: “From now on, you will be my spouse.” (OFFERED AGAIN) APR232192
OGI’S SUMMER BREAK VOL 2 $13.99 Page 482
Koikawa
For Haurto Ogi, there’s nothing more painful than unrequited love. After agreeing to date Tago, the handsome, vision-impaired boy who boldly proposed a relationship for the length of summer break, Ogi can’t help worrying about the inevitable future heartbreak. When Tago’s older brother insinuates Ogi only pursued his brother because Tago can’t see the feminine, eccentric way Ogi dresses, Ogi decides to change. If he can make himself look “normal,” maybe their relationship won’t be questioned and maybe… maybe Tago will fall in love with Ogi for real. A quirky and gentle story about overcoming fears and loving yourself and others for who they truly are. APR232202
YURI ESPOIR VOL 1 $12.99 Page 482
Mai Naoi
After finding out she is to be forced into an marriage of convenience as soon as she graduates high school, Kokoro sees her life ending before her eyes at her father’s wishes. And so in her final year of high school, she decides to indulge in her love of other women, and create an incredible sketchbook of lesbian romance to leave behind as her legacy. As she observes the young women of her town, she learns more about their desires, their struggles, and the unpredictable whims of love. (OFFERED AGAIN) APR232207
VAULT
GODFELL #4 $4.99 Page 420
Chris Sebela and Ben Hennessy
Zanzi has carved a path halfway through the body of God on her journey home, but now she and Neth will face the deadliest threat in Kerethim-the shadowy creatures of the Nihli. Facing an enemy that can penetrate their minds and kill with a whisper, Zanzi will have to rely on Neth to keep them alive through the winding, bloody rivers of God’s intestines. 0423VL364
QUEEN OF SWORDS A BARBARIC STORY #2 $4.99 Page 421
Michael Moreci and Corin Howell
Dive deeper into Soren’s past, as Serra takes her to The Master-where perhaps she’ll finally learn to contain her dark magic. Meanwhile, in the present, the world’s deadliest and dysfunctional trio encounter Shriekers capable of bending reality around fear. Fortunately, Ga’Bar (who’s stuck inside Deadheart’s sword) is starting to really enjoy getting swung around by his new muscle mommy. Heads will roll! 0423VL367
VIZ
UNTIL I LOVE MYSELF VOL 1 $12.99 Page 463
Poppy Pesuyama
Still reeling from being born into a body they hate, Pesuyama confronts their past, their friends, and even their mother as they try to come to terms with who they are and what they experienced. APR232095
WHATNOT
GRYFFEN #3 $5.99 Page 427
Ben Kahn and Bruno Hidalgo
Bayleigh Underwood is a comic artist and illustrator based in North Carolina who specializes in monsters, swords, and action scenes. They have illustrated multiple short comics, including Reflection, Marvel Action: Chillers, and The Last Champion. Chaos vs order! Progress vs stagnation! Dyed hair vs natural blonde! It’s the climactic showdown between the mad Captain Gryffen and the merciless Admiral Hunter! But after the revelations of Gryffen’s origins, their crew may never trust them again. Can Gryffen strike a blow against fascism? Or will they be abandoned to die in the lonely dark of space? It all comes to a head here, in the grand finale of Gryffen: Galaxy’s Most Wanted! APR23194 [LGBTQA characters including one enby. The writer identifies as enby too.]
YEN PRESS
MY MATE IS A FELINE GENTLEMAN $15.00 Page 467
Arata Asanae
When Toushirou is hired as a servant for beastman diplomat Alex, he fears the very worst. As an omega, he’s gotten used to being treated as a mere plaything, and he prepares to once again “serve” his feline master. But to his surprise, Alex is appalled by the treatment of omegas in Japan and treats him with a kindness he’s never experienced before. Little by little, Toushirou’s feelings begin to change. APR232111
THE SUMMER HIKARU DIED VOL 1 $15.00 Page 467
Mokumokuren
Two boys lived in a village: Yoshiki and Hikaru. The two did everything together…until the day Hikaru was encompassed by a mysterious light. That was when everything changed–Hikaru most of all. Yoshiki still wishes from the bottom of his heart to always stay by his side…but is there even a Hikaru left to be with? APR232108