Chopping Block Review: X-O Manowar #7

Review by Nolan P. Smith- Pastrami Nation

Writer: Robert Venditti

Artist: Lee Garbett

Publisher: Valiant Entertainment

Website: www.valiantentertainment.com

Valiant’s relaunch of books have, so far, proven to be a roaring success, especially X-O Manowar. The Visigoth warrior Aric, time displaced in modern times and bonded to the X-O Manowar armor, hasn’t had it easy as of late. The Vine, the alien race that abducted Aric in the first place, are ready to invade Earth, and have plenty of sleeper agents across the globe. As if the shock of a totally different world and alien races wasn’t enough, X-O has gone toe to toe with super assassin Ninjak, and hasn’t fared well.

This is the book before the fireworks go off, the build up of last few issues continues here. We see some action, but this is more of a plot furthering issue, bring all the pieces of the puzzle into sight. The Vine is gearing up to take on Earth and take back the armor, and it looks like only X-O stands in their way, and Ninjak if he so chooses.

Venditti continues to craft a deep backstory, as well as the tension for what is sure to be a momentous collision. Garbett’s visuals are crisp, and a great fit for this action packed book. Honestly, X-O Manowar is that all out action series that’s worthy to carry the mantle of Valiant. This issue doesn’t have the ballistics blazing, but it does further the story so we can reach the big bang of it all. A great read, I highly recommend X-O Manowar #7, giving it a solid @@@@ out of FIVE.