Time Waits

This cleverly plotted sci-fi adventure from Zdarsky (the Daredevil series), cowritten by David Brothers (Good Devils) and with art by Marcus To and Marvin Sianipa, follows the exploits of Blue Hardy, a stranded commando from the future. In the present day, Blue’s striving to make a good, simple life for himself—he’s married to town sheriff Grace, he’s about to adopt foster kid Duke Rowland, and he literally tends to his own garden. Then violent comrades from the future return, in search of mysterious botanical seeds that could save their world. While Blue’s wracked with “time sickness,” which plays havoc with his memories, Grace, Duke, and his gregarious friend Baker (“I’m trustworthy as hell, Sheriff”) rally to protect him. The narrative builds to an energetic climax set in the dystopian future, where aged versions of Blue’s allies save him from execution and undertake an 11th-hour quest to get him back home in the last remaining time machine. The suspense is balanced with naturalistic dialogue and humor, while the artwork swaps visual styles effectively. Zdarsky’s fans will relish this optimistic tale, in which keeping up with the complex time-travel antics pays off. (Apr.)

Correction: A previous version of this review incorrectly stated that cowriter David Brothers also supplies art.