Why are adult comics so taboo? I am not sure. For years adult book were always a big seller for me. I always carry the new stuff and stocked a good selection of back issues, but back issues are hard to come by. I have bought almost every collection offered to me there is never more than one or two issues of adult comics. I have scoured shows, stands, stores, and everywhere in between. Many dealers and stores do not like to carry adult comics. I just do not know why?
If you could find them it was always a hush-hush event with the dealer. Many times foreign espionage is not as secret as an adult comics buy. Some conventions do not even allow adult stuff at all. I understand not having them out where kids can see them and that is perfectly fine, but not being allowed to have them at all at the convention is ridiculous. Most conventions I go to I keep them behind the table and post a sign stating adult comics on request.
I started carrying adult comics on a lark and in a couple months the demand was so high even new issues were going for double price as soon as they hit the stands. Bondage Fairies is a perfect example of a good adult book. It is a great little sexed up manga book about a world of insects and animals.
I was first introduced to adult comics with Tim Vigil’s Faust. It is still one of my most twisted favorites. Many of the adult books that are being published have great stories and very influential art. Eros has been producing some very strong books for years. Do not misunderstand, there is some disgusting crap out there too. I do not condone books that promote violence against anyone in anyway. Rape or children that show up in an adult comic is simply inexcusable for any reason.
I believe one reason that adult books are not acceptable in many places is because the big 2 Marvel and DC do not produce them. DC has Vertigo and it has been one of the best imprints in history. Some of the best books ever were Vertigo. If you have not read Preacher or Transmetropolitan please run out and pick up a couple of trades. They are more than worth the price. Image produced The Pro by Garth Ennis and Jimmy Palmiotti which is a wonderful and humorous book. Marvel tried the adult line with Marvel Max. Basically Fury cursed a lot and Luke Cage got a little nookie. Although, I have to say The Eternals was one of the best things to come out of the house of ideas in years. Here is the best part, no one knows about it. Just when the powers that be give you hope they have decided to tone the books down for the kiddies. What a bunch of BS. The target audience for comics is 18 to 34 snapperhead. Diversity is not a crime. I am not asking to see Spidey buy a hooker, but a few adult books in the line up would not hurt. There is always the argument that porn degrades women. I sell almost as many adult comics to women as I do men. It is about a 60-40 split.
In conclusion to my rant. If you want a good read with descent characters and usually descent art. Pick up anything from Avatar, Garth Ennis, Al Rio, or Faust -an oldie but a goodie.