The first of two volumes reprinting the classic early issues of creator Matt Wagner's epic fantasy trilogy. The Hero Discovered reveals the fledgling adventures of the reluctant everyman hero, Kevin Matchsick. After encountering a shaggy and beguiling wizard, Kevin soon discovers that he is more than he ever imagined. This seminal work has found an enduring popularity with readers for decades and marks creator Matt Wagner's emergence as a powerful story-teller. With the release of the final part of the Mage trilogy, this series will spark interest with new readers and older fans alike.
The second volume, reprinting the classic early issues in Book One of creator Matt Wagner's epic fantasy trilogy, Mage. Following the adventures that drew the reluctant everyman hero Kevin Matchstick into a world of magic and monsters, the tiny crew of heroes must continue on their quest without the aid and counsel of the World-Mage, Mirth. Only courage and sacrifice will guide Kevin towards his ultimate destiny and an ancient, mythic power that is his alone to command. This seminal work has found an enduring popularity with readers for decades and marks creator Matt Wagner's emergence as a powerful storyteller.
The third of six volumes collecting MATT WAGNER's epic fantasy trilogy. The Hero Defined was the series that first saw Wagner join the ranks of Image Comics creators and continues the saga of the reborn Pendragon, Kevin Matchstick. Several years after the events of The Hero Discovered, Kevin finds himself partnered with a posse of comrades who also embody the powers and personas of ancient heroes. Together they confront and battle a litany of supernatural challenges, all seemingly orchestrated by an unseen malevolence from Kevin's past. Matt Wagner's classic epic of comics fantasy has been beloved by both old fans and new readers for decades. Mage was at the vanguard of the independent comics scene and continues to be an inspiration for many contemporary creators. With the release of the final part of the Mage trilogy, The Hero Denied, this series will be an essential part of any comics library.
The fourth of six volumes collecting Matt Wagner'sepic, modern-day fantasy trilogy, Mage Book Two: The Hero Defined continues the saga of the reborn Pendragon, Kevin Matchstick. Pursuing their common goal of confronting and defeating the world's hidden supernatural threats, Kevin and his companions Joe Phat and Kirby Hero find themselves drawn northward by mystical forces they don't understand. Trailed by the persistent but befuddled Wally Ut, Kevin finds himself tested by his assumptions of leadership and clarity of purpose. Still hidden from our heroes, dark and familiar forces conspire to drain Kevin's own powerâ¦and turn it against him! 200 pages + eight-page gatefold. Matt Wagner's classic epic of comics fantasy was at the vanguard of the independent comics scene and continues to be an inspiration for many contemporary creators, longtime fans, and new readers alike. An essential part of any comics library, the final part of the trilogy returns in June with Mage: The Hero Denied #9.
The last of six volumes collecting MATT WAGNER's epic, modern-day fantasy trilogy, MAGE-BOOK THREE: THE HERO DENIED is the long-awaited conclusion to the saga of the reborn Pendragon, Kevin Matchstick. After his mystical enemies destroy his home and kidnap half his family, Kevin must return to his heroic path and again draw forth the power of Excalibur. Will the long-prophesied third Mage finally appear at last? Or will the Pendragon's fear for his family's safety leave the mysterious Fisher King a victim to the sinister schemes of the Umbra Mother and her Gracklethorns? Collects MAGE: THE HERO DENIED #9-15
Matt Wagner returns with the third and final volume of his epic fantasy trilogy-Mage: The Hero Denied. This long-awaited conclusion follows the adventures of the reluctant everyman hero Kevin Matchstick, who, after encountering a shaggy and beguiling wizard, discovers he is the reincarnation of the legendary Pendragon and able to wield the power of the mystical weapon, Excalibur. The story picks up several years after the fateful climax of The Hero Defined and finds Kevin beginning to once again doubt the virtue of his actions and the course of his destiny.This introductory, half-sized issue #0 continues Mage's tradition of an Interlude short-adventure, bridging the gap between this series and the previous storyline. It also acts as a perfect jumping-on spot for new readers.
Legendary writer / artist Matt Wagner returns for the third and final volume of his epic fantasy trilogy-Mage: The Hero Denied! This first full-sized issue begins 10 years after the climax of The Hero Defined and finds the everyman hero Kevin Matchstick at an unexpected point in his life. It's been some time since he's utilized his powers as the reincarnated Pendragon, wielder of the mystical weapon Excalibur. Despite his reluctance to fulfill what two different Mages have declared as his destiny, dark forces have gathered to once again force Kevin into action. Throughout these events, Kevin keeps hoping for the same mystical guidance that has mentored him in the past. Who is the third Mage?! Mage: The Hero Deniedwill be a 15-issue limited series climaxing in a double-sized finale. Newly repackaged editions of the previous books from the trilogy-The Hero Discovered and The Hero Defined-will be released over the course of the new series. Mage has been a perennial favorite with old and new readers alike for nearly three decades.
Legendary creator Matt Wagner continues the hotly anticipated third and final volume of his epic fantasy trilogy with Mage: The Hero Denied. Years after readers last saw him, everyman hero Kevin Matchstick has all but abandoned his role as the reincarnated Pendragon, wielder of the mystical weapon Excalibur. But when dark forces reunite to threaten those he loves, he finds he must once again unleash the ancient power that he alone can command. Yet drawing Excalibur brings additional risks by further exposing him to his gathering enemies. Can Kevin stave off the supernatural dangers that pursue himor will it cost him everything he holds dear? Mage: The Hero Denied is a 15-issue limited series climaxing in a double-sized finale. The new series skips a scheduled release next monthin order to make way for the second of two volumes that newly repackage the classic first book of the Mage trilogy, The Hero Discovered. The Hero Denied will continue with issue three in November. Considered by many to be creator Matt Wagner's masterpiece, Magehas been a perennial favorite with old and new readers alike for nearly three decades.
BACK IN PRINT! Kevin Matchstick was a lonely, disaffected everyman until events beyond his control conspired to prod him into becoming the hero he never wanted to be. Accompanied by a mysterious wizard and a crew of loyal friends, the reluctant hero must discover the courage to accept his true power and defeat the dark powers that threaten reality itself. Featuring a painted cover by MATT WAGNER, this handsome hardcover edition is a must-have, not only for long-time fans of this classic tale, but for anyone who has thrilled to WAGNER's award-winning work on Grendel, Madame Xanadu and Sandman Mystery Theater. Collects MAGE #1-12.
