Advanced Review: Archer & Armstrong #3

Fred Van Lente creates a seemingly never ending cavalcade of hilarity, excitement and action, in a book that deserves to be on everyone’s pull list!

Archer & Armstrong #3, brings the search for the pieces of the Boon full circle as Archer comes face to face with his past! Not only has he turned his back on his parents by teaming with, “He Who Must Not Be Named”, now he must explain his actions to the person he holds most dear — Mary-Maria! Plus, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again — Ninja Nuns!

An emotional and enthralling read that will envelop your senses; A&A is one of those books that you look forward to ever month! It is witty and exciting, mixing “alt-history” and the ensuing hijinks of the best “buddy” stories to create a truly rare book that can please any comic fan! If you blended the intrigue and action of “National Treasure” with the charismatic characters of “Lethal Weapon”, you would be somewhere near the amazement that Archer & Armstrong brings — but, only near!

Clayton Henry, Pere Perez and Matt Milla converge their artistic talents to create a stunning visual experience that will tantalize the eyes! From highly stylized action sequences to tender emotional moments, this trio makes every panel jump off the page. There is nothing wasted, every miniscule detail has been paid attention to, making seemingly simple line art into something outstanding!

But, it is Fred Van Lente’s craftsmanship of the tale that keeps you enthralled. A page turner to say the least, it is rife with intrigue and captivating moments that keep you on the edge of your seat! Characterization is what comes first in this book and it is what will keep you coming back. From the aloof buffoon to the naive assassin, we are bewildered by how good a story about polar opposite characters can be. But it works — extremely well! 

This is the first book that begins the “shared universe” of Valiant Entertainment. From here on out, you will see details from other books working their way into different stories. Although they may seem miniscule at the time, these are the stepping stones that will solidify Valiant’s titles together. So, pay attention! You are on the cusp of seeing a universe being built before your eyes! Breathe it in!