Injection, Volume 1

Stories from Warren Ellis (Planetary, Transmetropolitan) tend to grow massive over time, a slow burn that builds to a wildfire that completely captivates the reader. In serialized comic format, this can leave the opening chapters lacking—a promise of mind-blowing things to come. With Ellis' Trees, it became a bit underwhelming, but Injection grips the reader from the beginning with great characterization and a strong hook. Injection centers on a think tank that upends the natural order of the universe, a mystery they're still grappling with as the reader struggles to catch up. Ellis lets the story unfold for both the characters and the readers naturally—the slow burn lighting a fire instead of threatening to fizzle out. Art and coloring from Declan Shalvey and Jordie Bellaire, respectively, deftly sell the unnatural elements creeping into our world, but their contributions go deeper with a panel's angles and colors often tapping into the reader's emotions. After this relatively small taste—the first five issues in the series—you'll be hooked.