Richie's Recommendation
Vertigo
End of Life #1
(W) Kyle Starks (A) Steve Pugh (CA) Gerald Parel
In the ’90s, my life was just beginning to grow into comic books. I realized early on that these stories meant more to me than they did to the average person, so I decided to visit a real comic shop—bricks, mortar, and all.
The people browsing the racks and working behind the counter were all grunged-out, which was the fashion at the time. I grabbed my Batman comic and brought it to the counter. The clerk looked it over and asked, “Don’t you want to pick up a Vertigo comic?”
I was new to the comic book lifestyle and hadn’t yet realized that the revolutionary world shepherded by Karen Berger was taking over the industry.
When I declined, I was ridiculed - not only by other patrons, but by the store clerks as well.
In the ’90s, it was common to use bully tactics to force a sale. On a young guy like me, it had the opposite effect. I stayed away from indie books for a long, long time.
Fast forward to now. I’ve finally worked past the frustration of that pitch and expanded my horizons when it comes to reading material.
Vertigo has always been seen as a legendary era - one where raw, dark, uncensored, independent-style work could be produced with the power of a mainstream publisher behind it. Some of the stories born from this imprint have transcended their genres and taken on identities far beyond their origins (Watchmen, Preacher, Hellblazer, Sandman), just to name a few mainstays.
Vertigo is making a comeback in 2026. DC is embracing its forgotten logo, and I believe Jim Lee understands and respects the expectations that come with using it.
This month’s focus is End of Life by Kyle Starks and Steve Pugh - the warped minds behind Peacemaker Tries Hard. It’s the story of an assassin with far more skill than sense. Eddie Stallion never really grew up. Relying on his natural talents, he’s dodged real-world problems, accountability, and meaningful relationships. After a mix-up puts a new contract on his head, Eddie is forced to confront the weight of the real world. It’s not sexy. It’s not fun. It just is.
I think this will be a blast for anyone watching Peacemaker, anyone who’s read Hitman, or anyone who enjoys grounded, slice-of-life storytelling.
I won’t bully you into giving the new Vertigo a try - but as your comic book guy, I highly recommend you don’t miss out.