Comic Book Spotlight: Creator-Owned Heroes

Is it a comic book? Is it a magazine? The answer is yes. The awkwardly titled but aptly named "Creator-Owned Heroes" is really two comic book stories with magazine-type features. In this new world of $4 comics of varying value what creators Jimmy Palmiotti, Justin Gray, Steve Niles, Kevin Mellon, et al. have brought to market is an exciting new model easily worth more than cover price.

Let's start with the two comic book stories currently running in COH, each about 10-11 pages long.

"AMERICAN MUSCLE," Part One 
by STEVE NILES & KEVIN MELLON
The world ended a long time ago. How it happened exactly and what exists in the wasteland have always been a mystery. Now Chloe, Gil and a gang of rebels have escaped the last human stronghold and are blazing across Post-Apocalypse America in search of paradise.

"TRIGGERGIRL 6," Part One 
by JIMMY PALMIOTTI, JUSTIN GRAY & PHIL NOTO
In this sci-fi thriller, the sixth in a series of genetically modified assassins born in a secret laboratory sets her sights on the ultimate target. But what happens when the perfect killing machine takes a personal interest in her target only to uncover a conspiracy that may change the fate of the entire human race?

That is two great stories from some of the best talent in the industry. Also, included in issue #1 was an interview with Neil Gaiman, Triggergirl cosplay, convention photos, and original essays by the creators about the importance of self-ownership. Future issues included interviews witth Bill Tortolini, Mark Waid, Scott Morse and features about personal training, starting a Kickstarter, getting into the industry, art gallery, etc. The additional features are eclectic and add a connection to the creators unlike anything else on the stands right now. You get the impression that the creators are as much fans of the medium  as we are and are proud to share some behind-the-scenes stories and thoughts on making comics today.

Do yourself a favor and pickup 'Creator-Owned Heroes'. If you value quality comics with a personal touch then this will not disappoint. It's available at your local comic book shop, sometimes by request, and digitally at Comixology where for a limited time Issue #1 is free to download and Issue #2 is discounted.