www.86thfloor.com     PREVIEWS VOL. XVII #7 July 2007  

Independent Comic Publishers
(Companies beginning with V)

VANGUARD PRODUCTIONS

STARS OF THE MONTH

NEAL ADAMS' MONSTERS
by Neal Adams
Collected into an English-language graphic novel for the first time, this graphic novel featuring the Frankenstein Monster, Count Dracula, and the Werewolf was originally serialized in Adams' groundbreaking anthology Echo of Future Past. This edition has been digitally re-colored, And a special section offers rare paintings, sketches, and drawings of monsters that captured his imagination. Available in both hardcover and softcover editions.
SOFTCOVER—SC, 8x11, FC SRP: $12.95
HARDCOVER (OCT032763)—HC, 8x11 SRP: $24.95

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VERTICAL INC

ARANZI MACHINE GUN VOLUME 3 TP
by Aranzi Aranzo
Continuing in the vein of the two previous volumes of Aranzi Machine Gun, the third volume brings you the continued adventures of all the Aranzi characters, familiar and new. Follow Sprite to Vietnam, follow the bunnies on their hunt for cute things, and learn how to make totes, coin purses, and appliqués for every occasion! (C: 0-1-2)
SC, 5x7, 80pgs, B&W SRP: $9.95

TEZUKA'S MW GN
by Osamu Tezuka
Yuki is a young bank employee, charismatic but devoid of morality. Garai is the guilt-ridden priest who atones for Yuki's sins. Fifteen years ago they witnessed and survived the chemical decimation of a seaside village rumored to have been the hiding place of an experimental psychotic drug, called MW, used by American soldiers. The Japanese and American governments are jointly covering up all knowledge of the drug, leaving Yuki and Garai with no one to turn to. Driven by nothing but his desire to inflict evil upon the world, Yuki's salvation can only come from Garai's negotiation of the guilt-ridden torment of their forbidden love, and his responsibility to stop the vicious killer the MW chemical created. This is Osamu Tezuka's controversial testament to the art of character, one that redefines both sin and salvation. (C: 0-1-2)
MATURE THEMES
HC, 6x9, 600pgs, B&W SRP: $24.95

VIRGIN COMICS

SNAKE WOMAN: TALE OF THE SNAKE CHARMER #4
Created by: Shekhar Kapur
Written by Zeb Wells
Art by Vivek Shinde
Cover by Michael Gaydos
As things come to a head in the hot, humid Kabini jungles of India, the events surrounding Jessica and her new guide Sari are temporarily put on hold while Raj gets to tell his side of the tale: his assistance to Harker, his betrayal of Jess, and a secret agenda that nobody sees coming. There is much more to Raj than meets the eye, but he's not the only one who's got a card or two up his sleeve. Don't miss this latest installment of Virgin Comics' pioneer Director's Cut series!
MATURE THEMES
32pgs, FC $2.99

JOHN WOO’S SEVEN BROTHERS SERIES 2 #1
Created by: John Woo
Written by: Ben Raab & Deric A. Hughes
Art by: Edison George
Cover by: Celia Calle
First, they were strangers. Individuals from all across the globe linked by an unlikely destiny and an unknown blood tie. Now, they're a family. And like all families, they've got their issues. So when a mysterious figure from a past Rachel Kai thought she put behind her comes gunning for all their blood, the 7 Brothers must join forces once again to save the life of one of their own! Written by the creators of the acclaimed Living in Infamy miniseries, Benjamin Raab and Deric A. Hughes, and with pencils by Virgin Illustration's newest talent Edison George (Devi), this next chapter in the saga of an unlikely band of brothers charts a bold new course for these heroes that promises to thrill fans both old and new!
MATURE THEMES
32pgs, FC $2.99

WESTON CAGE & NICOLAS CAGE’S VOODOO CHILD #3
Created by Weston Cage and Nicolas Cage
Written by Mike Carey
Art by Dean Hyrapiet
Cover by Ben Templesmith; Variant Cover by Dean Hyrapiet
As Detective Robert Julien uncovers links between New Orleans' corporate and criminal overlords, Gabriel Moore takes his quest for vengeance onto the streets of the city—and into his enemies' dreams. But the dreams of a voodoo bokor are a treacherous place, and the Voodoo Child is up against magics far stronger than the ones that raised him from the dead.
MATURE THEMES
32pgs, FC $2.99

SHEKHAR KAPUR’S DEVI #14
Written by: Saurav Mohapatra
Art by: Saumin Patel
Cover by: Luke Ross
She is Tara Mehta, current Devi incarnate, a normal woman hosting the essence of a celestial warrior created by the gods themselves. But as Tara decides to walk a path of her own choosing, away from the mandates of the pantheon, the gods decide to take matters into their own hands. Betrayed by her makers, bereft of allies, and tormented by her inner demons, Devi faces off with Kratha, the clawed apsara assassin, in a deadly duel to death.
32pgs, FC $2.99

DEEPAK CHOPRA PRESENTS: INDIA AUTHENTIC #5—SHIVA
Created by: Deepak Chopra
Written by: Saurav Mohapatra
Art: Abhishek Singh
Cover by: Abhishek Singh
"Satyam—I am the truth that remains when you peel away the material facade from all existence.
Shivam—I am the essence of all matter in the universe.
Sundaram—I am the ultimate order that underlies the chaos your senses perceive."
Deepak Chopra and Virgin Comics present as part of INDIA AUTHENTIC, a look at one of the most enigmatic and iconic deities in the Indian Pantheon: Lord Shiva, The Great Destroyer—The God of Gods.
When the Gods and the Demons sign an uneasy truce to churn the primordial ocean for ambrosial nectar that bestows immortality, they discover a deadly toxin which threatens to destroy all life in the universe. Only Shiva is powerful enough to withstand the effects of the toxin, but can he save the others from certain death?
32pgs, FC $2.99

THE SADHU: THE SILENT ONES #3
Written by: Saurav Mohapatra
Art by R. Manikandan
Cover by: Jeffrey Spokes
The journey continues for James Jensen, once a soldier in the British Army in 19th century India and now The Sadhu, spiritual warrior seeking a shelter from the storm that rages in his soul. Somewhere in his journey from Limbo onto the corporeal world, James seems to be trapped in a place where the distinction between dreams and reality are blurred. This Dreamtime is a manifestation of a collective unconscious, where nothing is as it seems. Seeking to rescue a someone he loves from the clutches of the evil Silent Ones, James encounters a being who alters his perception of reality forever. Can James face his own darkest fears and desires, and find a way out of this place before it claims his sanity?
MATURE THEMES
32pgs, FC $2.99

RAMAYAN 3392AD: RELOADED #3
Created by Deepak Chopra & Shekhar Kapur
Written by To be Announced
Art by Jeevan Kang
Cover by Jeevan Kang; Variant Cover by David Petersen
The retelling of the epic continues! The hero Rama and his companions, Lakshman and Seeta, are on the run in the rough-and-tumble city of Panchvati, pursued by a vengeful mob. If they're caught, the gladiator pits and certain death await. But even amidst such danger ... the first flickering of romance blossoms between Rama and Seeta. Inlcudes a back-up story by Ron Marz and Brandon Peterson.
32pgs, FC $2.99

EAT THE DEAD ONE-SHOT
Written by: Siddharth Kotian
Art by: Siddharth Kotian
Cover by: Ashwin Chikerur
Five teenagers plagued by nightmares journey to a legendary temple rooted in bloody myth. What they find there is not any ordinary haunted house, but rather ghosts of their own karmic past, or simply put, themselves. "You are your own worst enemy," now has a whole new meaning.
MATURE THEMES
56pgs, FC $4.99

THE LEAVES ONE-SHOT
Written by: Kevin J. Walsh
Art by: Ashwin Chikerur
Cover by: Ashwin Chikerur
Doctor Max Mellick seems to have the universe at his fingertips – a world-renown heart surgeon with a striking girlfriend and extravagant New York lifestyle. When he travels halfway across the world for a friend’s funeral in Bombay, India, however, something changes within him. An obscure Indian fortune-teller identifies Max as an evil being and Max is suddenly forced to escape the country -- to save his own life, but more importantly, to preserve his destiny. Inspired by the real-life Naadi fortune-tellers of India and one man's visit to them.
MATURE THEMES
64pgs, FC $5.99

SNAKE WOMAN TRADE PAPERBACK VOL. 2 (COLLECTS ISSUES 6-10)
Created by: Shekhar Kapur
Written by: Zeb Wells
Art by: Vivek Shinde
Cover by: Michael Gaydos
Jessica Petersen has grown accustomed to her “snake-ish” ways—that is, turning into a half-woman, half-snake. As the reincarnated Snake Goddess, Jess has wreaked a path of vengeance against the “68”, those who had ruthlessly desecrated the sacred temple of the Snake God in the eighteenth century. Harker, head of the 68, is pleased with the arrangement he’s made with Jess, and is determined to end the cycle of reincarnation he faces by helping her kill those he is meant to lead—even if that means destroying The Faithful, the secret society within the 68 created to protect its members from any harm. As the blood count gets thicker, Jess finds herself amidst a labyrinth of duplicity. Between the Faithful, Harker and those closest to Jess, who can she trust, and who will pay the price of the Snake Woman’s blood bath? Collects issues 6-10.
MATURE THEMES
SC, 7x10, 144pgs, FC $14.99

GUY RITCHIE’S GAMEKEEPER TRADE PAPERBACK VOL. 1
Created by: Guy Ritchie
Written by: Andy Diggle
Art by: Mukesh Singh; Cover by: John Cassaday
Patience is the virtue of the gamekeeper. Waiting for the right moment to strike anything that threatens the balance between man and nature. He is nature’s remedy to man’s disease. Brock lives a quiet existence as Gamekeeper on a secluded Scottish estate, until paramilitary mercenaries storm the estate and kill Jonah Morgan—the owner and Brock’s friend. Now, Brock faces his dark past and the events he had sworn he’d forget. Obliged to avenge Jonah’s death, Brock must leave his tranquil life and journey deep into an unfamiliar, urban underworld. But as he gets pulled in deeper, it’s difficult to tell who has more power, Brock, the man, or the animal within. Collects issues 1-5.
MATURE THEMES
SC, 7x10, 144pgs, FC $14.99

SHEKHAR KAPUR’S DEVI VOLUME 2 TP
Created by: Shekhar Kapur
Written by Samit Basu
Art by Aditya Chari and Saumin Patel
Cover by Mukesh Singh
She is Tara Mehta, current Devi incarnate, a normal woman hosting the essence of a celestial warrior created by the gods themselves. But as Tara decides to walk a path of her own choosing, away from the mandates of the pantheon, the gods decide to take matters into their own hands. Betrayed by her makers, bereft of allies, and tormented by her inner demons, Devi faces off with Kratha, the clawed apsara assassin, in a deadly duel to death. Collects issues 6-10.
SC, 7x10, 144pgs, FC $14.99

VIPER COMICS

BORDERLAND ONE SHOT
by Jason M. Burns & Paul Tucker
Inspired by the true cult killings upon which the feature film is based, Borderland tells the story of two police officers on opposing sides of the US/Mexican border who strike a tenuous pact in order to locate a missing tourist suspected to have been kidnapped by the Mexican cult responsible for a series of gruesome slayings.
MATURE THEMES
32pgs, FC SRP: $3.25

DEAD AT 17 VOLUME 2 #6
by Josh Howard
It's Hell on Earth and war rages in the streets of Darlington Hills. As Nara and Hazy unravel the mystery of Ebru Labadon, they discover a few things about themselves, including the true meaning behind their unbreakable bond. (C: 0-1-2)
MATURE THEMES
32pgs, FC SRP: $3.25

KARMA INCORPORATED VOLUME 1: POOR MR. WILSON GN
by David Hopkins & Tom Kurzanski
Ever have a bad day? What if it's not coincidence? Karma Incorporated is the story of two con artists, two hackers, and a retired hit man who go into business, turning a profit on minor sabotage. These mischief-makers wreck havok on everyone from the average Joe to the corporate CEO. No one is safe, if the money is right. With an introduction by Scott Hinze of Fanboy Radio.
SC, 6x9, 112pgs, FC SRP: $11.95

VISIBLE LIGHT ENTERTAINMENT

HERC BROWN #1
by Antczak, Craig, & Craig
From the creators of Nightwolf! Herc Brown is the son of Zeus, and an African-American blues singer. He has to accomplish the modern day urban equivalent of the 12 labors…starting with Joe “The Lion” Nemean, a notorious gang-leader in the fictional city of Troyton.
32pgs, FC SRP: $2.99

VIZ MEDIA LLC

SHOJO BEAT NOV. 2007 VOLUME 3 #11
by Various
Viz Media's monthly manga magazine, Shojo Beat, offers vast quantities of serialized shojo manga appearing in the United States for the first time. In addition to tons of beautiful artwork and compelling storylines from well-known manga creators, Shojo Beat offers quality editorial on Japanese trends, art, news, fashion, and culture, plus interviews, how-to's, and more! Shojo Beat is a hip, fun, informative read that will appeal to newbies and manga fans alike. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 300pgs, PC SRP: $5.99

SHONEN JUMP NOVEMBER 2007 #59
The World's Most Popular Manga! One of the world's biggest comics, containing the original manga versions of some of the most popular anime ever made! Each issue includes tons of full-color information about toys, TCGs, CCGs, video games and anime, plus amazing manga stories! Comes packaged with a rare "Wicked Avatar" card from the collectible Yu-Gi-Oh! card game! Rating: T (C: 1-1-0)
SC, 368pgs, PC SRP: $4.99

BEET THE VANDEL BUSTER VOLUME 12 GN
by Riku Sanjo & Koji Inada
With the Beet Warriors separated, Beet is left alone with two of the world's most powerful Vandels. The gentlemanly Sir Baron and the vicious Hystario square off for the ultimate prize: the chance to destroy Beet! Before long, only one Buster stands between Sir Baron and the innocent villager of Sankmeel. Is Kissu ready to fight to the limit? Rating: A (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 184pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

BLEACH VOLUME 21 TP
by Tite Kubo
Ichigo and his friends return to the World of the Living, where life goes on as usual. But the arrival of a new transfer student raises disturbing questions, for outside school he carries a zanpaku-to, and wears the mask of a Hollow. Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.95

DRAGON DRIVE VOLUME 4 TP
by Kenichi Sakura
Reiji and friends learn of a terrible prophecy. Within the mystical Jinryu stone lives a destructive dragon called Shinryu. If this dragon is released it could mean the end of the world. When the stone is stolen, the thief summons a horde of dragons to take him to Earth. Can Reiji and his pals stop this madman before he rains destruction upon the unsuspecting planet? Rating: A (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 216pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

HOSHIN ENGI VOLUME 3 TP
by Ryu Fujisaki
Taikobo gets more than he bargained for when he takes over the protection of two young princes prophesized to be part of a much larger master plan. As he unearths more of the truth of The Hoshin Project, Taikobo finds that he may never be able to trust anyone again. Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

KNIGHTS OF THE ZODIAC VOLUME 21 TP
by Masami Kurumada
Seiya and his friends have often put their lives on the line to defend humanity and the goddess Athena. But when the deathless army of Hades invades the mortal world, mere human life may not be enough to stop it. To survive the Battle of the Gods, Athena's Knights will need the power of Heaven itself. Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 5x7, 184pgs, B&W SRP: $7.95

MUHYO & ROJI'S BUREAU OF SUPERNATURAL INVESTIGATION VOLUME 1 TP
by Yoshiyuki Nishi
When the ghost of a tormented schoolgirl starts terrorizing subway passengers, can Muhyo and Roji resolve the paranormal crisis before it totally derails? Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 5x7, 208pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

THE ART OF NARUTO UZUMAKI
by Masashi Kishimoto
Relish Masashi Kishimoto's artwork in all its colorful glory in this new hardbound collection of images from the Naruto manga! All your favorite characters appear in over a hundred pages of full-color images. The book also includes an interview with creator Masashi Kishimoto, details on the process of creating a Naruto illustration, 20 pages of notes from the author about each image in the book, and a beautiful double-sided poster! (C: 1-0-0)
HC, 148pgs, FC SRP: $19.99

NARUTO: MISSION—PROTECT THE WATERFALL VILLAGE NOVEL
by Masatoshi Kusakabe & Masashi Kishimoto
Naruto and the gang return home after a stint protecting Shibuki, the leader of Takigakure. But there's danger back in the Village Hidden in the Leaves. Sasuke and Sakura are quickly captured and the tow-headed ninja-wannabe finds himself in a desperate situation. Turning to Shibuki for help, Naruto discovers the revered leader is actually a coward and false hero. Alone, Naruto must protect his home, his friends, and the Takigakure's secret potion — the Water of Heroes. (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

NARUTO TP'S
by Masashi Kishimoto
In volume 19 it's all-out shinobi war as Naruto, Tsunade, Jiraiya and Shizune take on Orochimaru and Kabuto in battle…with the final fate of Tsunade hanging on the outcome! Will her darkest fears finally become reality?! Volume 20 has ninja vs. ninja, with Sakura caught in the middle! And volume 21 has Tsunade send a team to hunt down the conflicted Sasuke. Are Naruto, Neji, and others capable of beating the Sound Four? Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
VOL 19—SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $7.95
VOL 20—SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $7.95
VOL 21—SC, 216pgs, B&W SRP: $7.95

YU-GI-OH! DUELIST VOLUME 23 TP
by Kazuki Takahashi
Yugi and Kaiba fight their final duel! One will lose, and the other will go to meet the greatest Egyptian God, the Sun Dragon Ra! But can anyone defeat the ultimate God Card in the hands of its master, the mad Marik? Or will they fall victim to the terrible prophecy "In an instant Ra shall become a phoenix…and the enemies of Ra shall return to the earth." Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.95

YU-GI-OH! MILLENNIUM WORLD VOLUME 6 TP
by Kazuki Takahashi
In the pharaoh's empty tomb, Yugi fights Bakura for the most powerful magic of all: Yu-Gi-Oh's forgotten Egyptian name! But can Yugi win a life-or-death match of Duel Monsters without his partner's help? Meanwhile, massive earthquakes shake the World of Memories, and the pharaoh and the forces of Egypt fight a last stand against the undead armies of Zorc Necrophades. Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 5x7, 208pgs, B&W SRP: $7.95

YUYU HAKUSHO VOLUME 13 TP
by Yoshihiro Togashi
This is it folks — the final moments of the long-running Dark Tournament. It's the conclusion to one of the greatest fights ever! Toguro's at his terrifying 100 percent power level, which is so strong it's melting the audience members! Watching one of his closest friends die, Yusuke is fired up too, and ready to bet it all on one last blast. But will it be enough? Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $7.95

BUSO RENKIN VOLUME 8 TP
by Nobuhiro Watsuki
Kazuki and Tokiko are on the run from the hunters of the Alchemist Warriors! Tokiko, now reduced to the size of a doll, fights alongside Kazuki and Gouta as they take on three of the hunters and Captain Bravo himself, whose past is finally revealed! As Kazuki and Captain Bravo's battle draws to a close, another Warrior Chief appears, as well as a man calling himself the Great Warrior Chief. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

CLAYMORE VOLUME 10 TP
by Norihiro Yagi
Clare and a group of Claymores are sent to the north to battle a group of Yoma that have banded together under the command of Isley, a powerful Awakened Being. When the warriors arrive, they find their new enemies to be unusually dangerous. They are incredibly strong, well-organized, and seem to have a plan to dominate the entire region. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

EYESHIELD 21 VOLUME 16 TP
by Riichiro Inagaki
The Devil Bats pull out all the stops in their game against the Seibu Wild Gunmen, but the Gunmen's offense proves to be unshakeable. Without a kicker, the Devil Bats don't stand a snowball's chance in hell — or do they? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

PRETTY FACE VOLUME 2 TP
by Yasuhiro Kano
Rando struggles to be a good "big sister" to Rina as fate conspires to put him in one disastrous situation after another. When pants start coming off, and half-naked women start crawling all over him for the thinnest of reasons, Rando must use all his karate wiles to avoid being exposed as a complete weirdo. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

REBORN VOLUME 5 GN
by Akira Amano
Tsuna becomes the protector of a master statistician and his book of statistics, which supposedly holds the key to Mafia control of the world! Naturally, other gangs would like to have this book, but that isn't Tsuna's biggest challenge. He also gets embroiled in the snowball fight to end all snowball fights, and finds himself on a zoo date with Kyoko! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

STRAWBERRY 100 % VOLUME 2 TP
by Mizuki Kawashita
Junpei ends up alone with his girlfriend Tsukasa…in her bedroom! Could this be his shot at happiness? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

THE ART OF ANGEL SANCTUARY 2: LOST ANGEL
by Kaori Yuki
A second art book featuring even more stunning artwork from Kaori Yuki, creator of the shojo/goth manga hit Angel Sanctuary. Along with the full-color, full-page illustrations, Lost Angel presents highly detailed character and series information indexed to help fans navigate the knotty Angel Sanctuary universe. In addition to all this, Kaori Yuki sits down for a nine-page interview. Highly recommended for angels and devils! (C: 0-1-2)
SC, 100pgs, FC SRP: $19.99

BOYS OVER FLOWERS VOLUME 26 TP
by Yoko Kamio
Tsukushi struggles to understand her feelings for Tsukasa, her on-and-off boyfriend, and he struggles to try and not destroy Tokyo. Will the man who came between them step aside? The meddlesome F4 try their hand at forcing Tsukushi and Tsukasa together. All the while Tsukasa's mother's spies are hot on their trail! Rating: T
(C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

HANA KIMI VOLUME 20 GN
by Hisaya Nakajo
Nakatsu's mom is in town, and she has plans for her son: she wants him to go home after graduation to take care of the family business! Will Nakatsu give up his dreams of becoming a star soccer player? Meanwhile, another student at Osaka High School prepares to risk everything for his dreams. Nakao confesses his love to upperclassman Minami, but can Minami really have feelings for a boy? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

RED RIVER VOLUME 19 GN
by Chie Shinohara
Nakia's henchman has arranged to sabotage the ship on which Yuri and her aides are sailing to Karkemish, and in the resulting chaos Yuri and her deputy Rusafa are cast adrift. Kail, overcome by anguish, mishandles his campaign against the Egyptians and enables them to cross the Orontes River and enter Ugarit. Yuri and Rusafa, meanwhile, have been rescued by a passing ship and must hide their identities from a group of Egyptian soldiers on board. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

STAR OF THE MONTH

BACKSTAGE PRINCE VOLUME 1 TP
by Kanoko Sakurakoji
Drawn into the world of kabuki theatre, young Akari spends her time after school assisting the actor Shonosuke Ichimura, who’s actually a high school cutie by the name of Ryusei Horiuchi. Akari is totally clueless about kabuki and boys, but she's eager to learn about both. Her first encounter with Ryusei doesn't go very well, but with the help of a cat named Mr. Ken, the two teenagers quickly become prince AND princess of kabuki. Love was never so dramatic! Rating: T (DEC063988) (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

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FALL IN LOVE LIKE A COMIC VOLUME 1 TP
by Chitose Yagami
Rena asks Tomoya to be her boyfriend, hoping that gaining some experience in dating will help her improve her manga. Rena is positive that Tomoya is only dating her to help her out, but that doesn't stop her from falling in love. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

STAR OF THE MONTH

THE GENTLEMEN'S ALLIANCE VOLUME 1 TP
by Arina Tanemura
In return for a business loan of 50 million yen, the Kamiya family gave their daughter Haine away for adoption to the Otomiya family. Haine, now an Otomiya, is appointed to the student council of the Imperial Academy, a private school for the aristocracy. Even though Haine is of proper lineage to be on the council, she finds herself struggling to find her place among the many secrets of its elite members, especially those of the president who holds her heart: Shizumasa Togu, aka "the Emperor." Rating: T+ (DEC063990) (C: 1-0-0) NOTE: Available worldwide.
SC, 5x7, 182pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

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LA CORDA DORO VOLUME 5 TP
by Yuki Kure
The much-anticipated Second Selection has begun! With two students from outside the music school now in the competition, the entire campus is abuzz. And when Len's musician parents show up as special guests, Len feels special pressure to turn in a powerful performance. Will Len outdo himself…or succumb to backstage sabotage? Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

NANA VOLUME 7 TP
by Ai Yazawa
Nana K. was happy to be Blast's biggest cheerleader, but now that the band is taking off she's discovering that there are hordes of fans eager to take her place. At the same time, her involvement with Trapnest hottie Takumi is turning into a romantic entanglement. When a chance for another kind of happiness presents itself, will Nana K. be strong enough to face the difficult choices that result? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 5x7, 208pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

TAIL OF THE MOON VOLUME 7 TP
by Rinko Ueda
Hanzo is waiting for Usagi to qualify as a ninja before marrying her, but Usagi doesn't seem to be getting any closer to achieving her goal. Frustrated by the long wait, her great-grandfather decides to call off the engagement! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

VAMPIRE KNIGHT VOLUME 3 TP
by Matsuri Hino
Kaname, the pureblood vampire, has kept to his room since learning of Yuki and Zero's forbidden act. However, the arrival of Ichijo's grandfather brings the entire Night Class together to greet one of the oldest vampires on the senate. Ichijo's grandfather says he's there merely to visit his grandson, but he's out for Kaname's blood. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

CHEEKY ANGEL VOLUME 19 GN
by Hiroyuki Nishimori
Caught up in Takao Gakusan's game of revenge, Megumi and her friends have to battle through a gauntlet of enemies in order to rescue Miki from the tower in which she is being held. Ichiro and Yasuda, gauging themselves next to useless in a fight, bail out early — gone but not forgotten — leaving the field to Megumi, Genzo, Hitomoji, and a surprising new ally they've gained along the way. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

THE ART OF FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST VOLUME 2
by Hiromu Arakawa
A second art book featuring the characters from the top-selling and award-winning manga series, Fullmetal Alchemist. Includes original color artwork from creator, Hiromu Arakawa — each illustration presented in sequential order with commentary from Arakawa himself. Also included are nine pages of detailed character designs for the FMA PlayStation 2 video game, plus two pages of brand new manga. (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 8x11, 112pgs, FC SRP: $19.99

FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST VOLUME 3 NOVEL
by Makoto Inoue & Hiromu Arakawa
Sidelined with a fever in a remote village, Edward is unexpectedly reunited with a childhood friend. Even though he's become a valuable member of his country's military organization, Edward can't help feeling a pang of jealousy. While he and his brother's fate are inexorably bound to recent life-altering events, his friend is busy studying to become a doctor and making his dreams come true. Suddenly, Edward starts questioning the purpose of his life. (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

INUBAKA: CRAZY FOR DOGS VOLUME 5 TP
by Yukiya Sakuragi
Suguri is able to bond with Henry, a volatile German shepherd that everyone else is afraid of, and helps the dog to overcome the painful memories of its owner's near-death experience. Suguri and Henry are put to the test in a televised agility contest, but can they really show 'em who's top dog? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 216pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

INU-YASHA VOLUME 31 TP
by Rumiko Takahashi
The search for the final shard of the Shikon Jewel leads Inu-Yasha and the gang to a mountain fortress. But the gate is guarded by two giant statues and a force that will only allow the dead to enter! Seeking a path to the underworld, Naraku meanwhile teams up with a new demon, Abi Hime. Inu-yasha and friends step in to stop them when they find that Kikyo may be involved! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $8.95

INU-YASHA ANI MANGA VOLUME 23 GN
by Rumiko Takahashi
Kagura has long sought to be free of her evil master's grasp, and when it appears that Naraku's powers have weakened, she plans her escape. But, afraid to take such a dangerous gamble alone, she tries to enlist Sesshomaru's help by offering him the jewel shards she stole from Koga's legs. Meanwhile, Naraku's newest incarnation is slaughtering humans and stealing their faces! Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 216pgs, FC SRP: $11.99

THE LAW OF UEKI VOLUME 8 TP
by Tsubasa Fukuchi
Welcome to Dogura Mansion—amusement park of the underworld! Ueki and his allies have entered a deadly game against five members of Robert's 10 in a mini-battle tournament! Set in five funky fields, two bouts have already been fought, with one win for Ueki's team and one draw. And for some reason, Ueki's old pal Seiichiro Sano is fighting for the other side in this one. What's a tree-loving do-gooder like Ueki to do? Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

O PARTS HUNTER VOLUME 6 TP
by Seishi Kishimoto
To defeat the legendary O-Part Mexis, Jio was forced to make a dangerous pact with the evil spirit that dwells deep within his heart. Now that the time has come to resume his battle with the man responsible for shattering his old O-Part — Wise Yury, the Crimson Magician — will Jio's newfound strength aid him in stopping this powerful O.P.T., or will his eternal soul be lost in the process? Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

PORTUS TP
by Jun Abe
Asami's best friend Chiharu has stopped coming to school and isn't answering her phone. It seems she's found something that's a little more addictive than the school art club. But when Chiharu mysteriously commits suicide, all Asami finds in her room is a strange video game called Portus. With the help of two of her teachers, Asami hopes to solve the mystery behind her friend's macabre death and the bizarre game itself. Rating: M (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 232pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

SHAKUGAN NO SHANA VOLUME 2 TP
by Yashichiro Takahashi & Ayato Sasakura
Yuji struggles to understand the strange world he has been thrust into, his relationship with Shana, as well as his own mortality. Shana, conversely, tries to adapt to the human world while protecting Yuji, the treasured Mistes. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

SHAKUGAN NO SHANA: FIGHT DAY NOVEL
by Yashichiro Takahashi & Noizi Ito
With Shana and Alastor by his side day and night, young Yuji is learning more about his new-found fate. He possesses a one-of-a-kind treasure and has quickly become the No. 1 target for power-hungry freaks from the Crimson Realm. He's even captured the attention of a second Flame Haze. There's only room in Yuji's life for one protective angel — but if he's not careful, he might get burned by friendly fire! (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

ZATCH BELL VOLUME 15 GN
by Makoto Raiku
Italian singing sensation Parco Folgore and his mamodo partner Kanchomé are in big trouble — they must amuse their current mamodo opponent with an entertaining song-and-dance routine or face total annihilation! Will Parco and his timid companion pull off the showstopper to end all showstoppers, or has their luck finally run out? With a little help from the mysterious Dr. Riddles, they just might stay in the running to be king. Rating: T (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

THE DRIFTING CLASSROOM VOLUME 8 TP
by Kazuo Umezu
Returned to his original evil personality, Sekiya forces the students to be his slaves! Escaping into the Tokyo subway, Sho and his friends explore an underground world of horror. And there, in an ancient film strip, they discover the terrifying story of the end of the world. Rating: M (C: 1-0-0)
MATURE THEMES
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

GOLGO 13 VOLUME 11 GN
by Takao Saito
1996: Okinawa, Japan's smallest prefecture, holds 75 percent of the U.S. military presence in Japan. When a Self-Defense Force officer is murdered by his associates, Golgo steps into the ominous discontent behind one of Japan's greatest controversies! Then, it's known that Golgo 13 will kill anyone who tries to impersonate him. But if you're merely mistaken for him by a Chicago crime boss, can you possibly escape alive? Rating: M (C: 1-0-0)
MATURE THEMES
SC, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

GYO VOLUME 1 (2ND EDITION) GN
by Junji Ito
The rank odor of death floats above the famous island. What is the source? Then a strange fish with legs appears! So begins teenagers Tadashi and Kaori's plunge into the horror (and stench) of the sea. Rating: M (C: 1-0-0)
MATURE THEMES
SC, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

NAOKI URASAWA'S MONSTER VOLUME 11 TP
by Naoki Urasawa
Tenma discovers two more pieces of the puzzle to Johan's past in Prague — a story about Johan's mother, a beautiful woman taken away by the secret police, and an old recording of Johan as a child. And Tenma knows all too well that Johan is lurking close by when a brilliant young detective of the Prague Police Department is accused of poisoning three of his superiors. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
SC, 216pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

UZUMAKI VOLUME 1 (2ND EDITION) GN
by Junji Ito
Kurôzu-cho, a small fogbound town on the coast of Japan, is cursed. According to Shuichi Saito, the town is haunted not by a person or being but a pattern: uzumaki, the spiral — the hypnotic secret shape of the world. It manifests itself in everything from seashells and whirlpools in water to the spiral marks on people's bodies, the insane obsessions of Shuichi's father and the voice from the cochlea in our inner ear. Rating: T+ (C: 1-0-0)
MATURE THEMES
SC, 208pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

THE CAT RETURNS PICTURE BOOK GN
by Hiroyuki Morita & Aoi Hiiragi
A children's book based on the popular Studio Ghibli animated movie! The Cat Returns Picture Book retells the story of Haru and her exciting adventures in a magical cat universe using actual cel artwork from the original movie. The book and movie both draw inspiration from the manga series, Baron: The Cat Returns (also published by Viz Media).
(C: 1-0-0)
SC, 5x7, 112pgs, FC SRP: $14.99