Ed Brubaker
Ed Brubaker is an acclaimed American comic book writer and cartoonist, known for his work on titles such as 'Captain America', 'Daredevil', and 'The Fade Out'. He has received multiple awards for his contributions to the comic book industry, particularly for his skill in crafting crime and noir stories.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Incognito
Bad Influences
In a gritty and thrilling narrative, the story follows a former supervillain who, after turning state's evidence, is living a mundane life under the witness protection program. Struggling with the monotony of his new existence, he finds himself drawn back into the world of crime when his past catches up with him. As he navigates the dangerous underworld, he must confront his own identity and the moral complexities of his actions, all while trying to stay one step ahead of those who seek revenge.
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2. Criminal
Coward
Set in a gritty, noir-inspired world, this graphic novel weaves together a series of interconnected stories that delve into the lives of morally complex characters entangled in crime and corruption. Each tale explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and the blurred lines between right and wrong, as characters navigate a dangerous underworld filled with deceit and desperation. With its dark, atmospheric artwork and compelling narrative, the book offers a raw and unflinching look at the human condition through the lens of crime fiction.
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3. Uncanny X Men
In this gripping installment of the iconic series, the X-Men face a formidable challenge as they navigate a world teetering on the brink of chaos. The team is thrust into a complex web of political intrigue and moral dilemmas, testing their unity and resolve. As they confront new adversaries and grapple with their own personal demons, the X-Men must rely on their unique abilities and unyielding spirit to protect both mutants and humans alike. With unexpected alliances and heart-pounding action, this narrative explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the enduring struggle for justice in a world that fears and misunderstands them.
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4. Los Muertos Y Los Moribundos
Criminal Vol. 2
Set against the gritty backdrop of a crime-ridden city, this gripping noir tale delves into the lives of individuals caught in a web of deceit, betrayal, and desperation. As the story unfolds, a detective haunted by his past finds himself entangled in a complex case involving a series of mysterious deaths. With each twist and turn, the line between the living and the dead blurs, revealing the dark underbelly of human nature and the lengths people will go to for redemption or revenge. The narrative is a haunting exploration of morality, loss, and the relentless pursuit of truth in a world where nothing is as it seems.
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5. Pulp
Set in the 1930s, this gripping tale follows a once-famous pulp writer who finds himself struggling to make ends meet in a rapidly changing world. As he grapples with the harsh realities of aging and irrelevance, he draws inspiration from his own past as a cowboy outlaw to craft thrilling stories of justice and revenge. However, when his fictional escapades begin to mirror his real-life encounters with danger and corruption, he is forced to confront his own morality and the blurred lines between fiction and reality. This narrative weaves together themes of redemption, legacy, and the enduring power of storytelling.
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6. Criminal, Vol.2
Lawless
In this gripping graphic novel, readers are plunged into the gritty underworld of crime, where the lines between right and wrong blur in a tale of betrayal, revenge, and redemption. The story follows a former soldier turned thief who is drawn back into a life of crime by the promise of a big score, only to find himself entangled in a web of deceit and danger. As he navigates the treacherous landscape of criminal alliances and personal vendettas, he must confront his own demons and make choices that could lead to his salvation or downfall. With its noir-inspired art and complex characters, this volume delivers a compelling narrative that explores the dark corners of human nature.
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7. Criminal Nº 01
Coward
In a gritty, noir-inspired world, the story follows Leo, a master thief with a strict code of conduct, who is drawn back into the criminal underworld he desperately tried to leave behind. Haunted by his past and driven by a sense of loyalty, Leo finds himself entangled in a dangerous heist that promises both high stakes and high rewards. As tensions rise and betrayals lurk around every corner, Leo must navigate a web of deceit and violence, all while trying to protect those he cares about. This tale of crime and redemption explores the blurred lines between right and wrong in a world where trust is a rare commodity.
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8. Captain America
Winter Soldier
In this gripping narrative, the iconic superhero faces a world filled with political intrigue, espionage, and personal turmoil. As he grapples with his role in a modern society that is vastly different from the one he once knew, he is forced to confront ghosts from his past and navigate a landscape where allies and enemies are not always easily distinguished. The story delves into themes of identity, loyalty, and sacrifice, as the hero strives to uphold his ideals in a world that constantly challenges them. With unexpected twists and a deep exploration of character, this tale redefines the legacy of a timeless symbol of justice.
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9. Civil War
In a world where superheroes are divided over the issue of government registration, tensions escalate into a full-blown conflict that pits friends and allies against each other. The narrative explores the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by these heroes as they grapple with the consequences of their choices, leading to a dramatic and emotional showdown. As alliances shift and loyalties are tested, the story delves into themes of freedom, responsibility, and the cost of power, ultimately questioning what it truly means to be a hero in a fractured society.
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10. The Fade Out
Set against the backdrop of post-World War II Hollywood, this gripping noir graphic novel delves into the dark underbelly of the film industry. The story follows a troubled screenwriter who becomes embroiled in a murder mystery after the suspicious death of a rising starlet on a movie set. As he navigates a world filled with deceit, corruption, and hidden agendas, he uncovers secrets that threaten to unravel the glamorous facade of Tinseltown. The narrative weaves a tale of intrigue and betrayal, capturing the essence of a bygone era where the line between illusion and reality is dangerously blurred.
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11. Batman
In this gripping narrative, the iconic vigilante of Gotham City faces a complex web of crime and corruption that tests his moral compass and detective skills. As he delves deeper into the shadows, he encounters a formidable array of adversaries, each with their own sinister agendas, challenging him to confront not only the external threats but also his inner demons. The story weaves a rich tapestry of suspense and intrigue, exploring themes of justice, vengeance, and the duality of human nature, all while maintaining a relentless pace that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
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12. Criminal, Vol. 4
Bad Night
In this gripping installment, the narrative delves into the gritty underworld of crime, focusing on the life of a former soldier turned criminal who is haunted by his past. As he navigates the treacherous landscape of betrayal and violence, he finds himself embroiled in a dangerous heist that could either be his redemption or his downfall. The story intricately weaves themes of loyalty, revenge, and the struggle for survival, painting a vivid picture of a man caught between his own demons and the harsh realities of the criminal world.
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13. Criminal, Vol. 3
The Dead and the Dying
In this gripping installment of the acclaimed crime series, the narrative delves into the gritty underworld of 1970s Los Angeles, where the lines between law enforcement and criminality blur. The story follows a young man, haunted by his father's legacy, as he navigates a treacherous path filled with deceit, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. As he becomes entangled in a web of corruption and violence, he must confront his own demons and decide whether to follow in his father's footsteps or forge a new path. The tale is a masterful exploration of loyalty, redemption, and the cost of living a life on the edge.
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14. Lawless
In a gritty tale of crime and redemption, the story follows Tracy Lawless, a former soldier who returns to the criminal underworld to investigate the mysterious death of his brother. As he delves deeper into the seedy underbelly of organized crime, Tracy navigates a web of deceit, betrayal, and violence, all while grappling with his own moral compass. The narrative is a dark exploration of loyalty, revenge, and the blurred lines between right and wrong, set against a backdrop of noir-inspired intrigue.
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15. Criminal, Vol. 1
Coward
In this gritty and compelling graphic novel, readers are plunged into the seedy underbelly of a city where crime is a way of life and trust is a rare commodity. The story follows Leo, a master thief with a strict code of ethics, who is drawn back into the dangerous world he tried to leave behind. As he navigates a web of deceit, betrayal, and violence, Leo must confront his past and make choices that could determine his future. With its noir-inspired artwork and complex characters, this tale explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.
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16. Daredevil By Ed Brubaker Omnibus, Vol. 1
In this gripping narrative, the protagonist finds himself ensnared in a web of deception and danger as he navigates the perilous world of crime and justice. Stripped of his freedom and trapped in a high-security prison, he must rely on his wits and unparalleled skills to survive amidst a host of enemies, both old and new. As alliances shift and betrayals loom, he is forced to confront his own demons and redefine his sense of morality. The story weaves a complex tapestry of intrigue, action, and emotional depth, exploring themes of redemption, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth.
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17. The Marvels Project
The Birth of the Super Heroes
Set against the backdrop of World War II, this graphic novel delves into the origins of the Marvel Universe, weaving a rich tapestry of interconnected stories that highlight the emergence of iconic superheroes. Through the eyes of a young doctor, readers witness the birth of the first super-soldier and the rise of masked vigilantes, as humanity grapples with the dawn of a new era. The narrative intricately explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the moral complexities faced by those who choose to wield extraordinary power in a world on the brink of chaos.
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18. Velvet, Vol. 1
Before the Living End
Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, this gripping espionage thriller follows Velvet Templeton, a seemingly unassuming secretary at a top-secret intelligence agency. When a top agent is murdered, Velvet is unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight, revealing her own hidden past as a highly skilled operative. As she embarks on a dangerous mission to uncover the truth, Velvet must navigate a web of deceit, betrayal, and deadly secrets, all while evading those who want her silenced. Her journey is a thrilling blend of action, intrigue, and suspense, challenging her to confront her past and redefine her future.
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19. Captain America By Ed Brubaker Omnibus, Vol. 1
The Winter Soldier Saga
In this gripping collection, the iconic superhero faces a world of espionage, betrayal, and moral complexity as he navigates the shadows of his past and the challenges of the present. The narrative weaves a tale of intrigue and action, introducing formidable foes and unexpected allies, while exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and redemption. As the protagonist battles against a resurgent threat from his history, he must confront his own vulnerabilities and the weight of his legacy, all while striving to protect a world that is constantly evolving.
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20. The Death Of Captain America, Vol. 1
The Death of the Dream
In this gripping narrative, the Marvel Universe is shaken to its core as the iconic hero, Captain America, meets his untimely demise. The story unfolds in the aftermath of the superhero Civil War, where political tensions and personal vendettas reach a boiling point. As the world mourns the loss of a symbol of hope and justice, key figures like Bucky Barnes, Sharon Carter, and the Falcon grapple with their grief and the implications of his death. Amidst the chaos, a sinister conspiracy begins to unravel, threatening to destabilize the fragile peace and challenge the very ideals Captain America stood for.
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21. Velvet, Vol. 2
The Secret Lives of Dead Men
In this gripping continuation of the espionage thriller, the story delves deeper into the shadowy world of international intrigue as the protagonist, a seasoned intelligence operative, races against time to uncover the truth behind a web of deceit and betrayal. With her reputation tarnished and enemies closing in, she must rely on her wits and skills to navigate a dangerous landscape filled with double agents, hidden agendas, and unexpected alliances. As the stakes rise, she discovers shocking secrets that challenge her understanding of loyalty and justice, leading to a heart-pounding climax that leaves readers on the edge of their seats.
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22. Catwoman
The Dark End of the Street
Set against the gritty backdrop of Gotham City, this story follows the enigmatic anti-heroine as she navigates a world of crime, corruption, and personal redemption. The narrative delves into her complex persona, exploring her dual identity as both a cunning thief and a protector of the city's marginalized. As she grapples with her past and the moral ambiguities of her actions, she forms unexpected alliances and confronts formidable adversaries, all while striving to carve out her own path in a city teetering on the edge of chaos.
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23. Where The Body Was
Set against the backdrop of a gritty urban landscape, this gripping narrative delves into the complexities of crime, memory, and the haunting echoes of the past. The story follows a group of friends who are drawn back to their old neighborhood by the discovery of a body, forcing them to confront long-buried secrets and unresolved tensions. As they navigate the tangled web of their shared history, the characters grapple with the blurred lines between loyalty and betrayal, ultimately revealing the profound impact of their choices on their present lives. With its intricate plot and richly developed characters, the tale offers a compelling exploration of the human condition and the enduring power of the past.
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24. Kill Or Be Killed, Vol. 3
In this gripping continuation of the series, the protagonist grapples with the escalating consequences of his vigilante actions, as the line between hero and villain blurs further. Haunted by the demon that drives him to kill, he faces mounting pressure from both law enforcement and the criminal underworld. As his personal life unravels, he must navigate a web of deceit and danger, questioning his own sanity and morality. With tension building, the stakes are higher than ever, setting the stage for a thrilling confrontation that could change everything.
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25. Kill Or Be Killed, Vol. 2
In the gripping continuation of the series, the protagonist grapples with the escalating consequences of his vigilante actions, as the line between justice and madness blurs. Haunted by the demon that demands he kill to survive, he finds himself embroiled in a dangerous game with the Russian mob and the relentless pursuit of a determined detective. As the stakes rise, his personal relationships fray, and the psychological toll of his dual life threatens to unravel him completely. This volume delves deeper into the moral complexities and dark allure of vengeance, leaving readers questioning the true cost of survival.
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26. Kill Or Be Killed, Vol. 1
In this gripping graphic novel, a disillusioned young man named Dylan finds himself ensnared in a deadly pact after a failed suicide attempt. Haunted by a demonic presence that demands he kill one person each month to stay alive, Dylan is thrust into a moral quandary, grappling with the weight of his actions and the blurred lines between justice and murder. As he navigates the dark underbelly of New York City, Dylan's life spirals into chaos, forcing him to confront his own demons and the true nature of his humanity.
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27. Gotham Central, Book One
In the Line of Duty
A gritty look at the Gotham City Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit, this story follows detectives grappling with cases that pit them against costumed criminals and the shadow of a masked vigilante. After a colleague is killed in a brutal encounter with Mr. Freeze, tensions escalate as Detective Renee Montoya is outed and targeted in a smear campaign by Two-Face, pushing the squad—alongside partners like Crispus Allen—to solve impossible cases and protect their own. Their pursuit of justice becomes a test of integrity and resilience in a city ruled by fear.
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28. Kill Or Be Killed, Vol. 4
In the final chapter, a tormented vigilante’s crusade collapses as he’s confined to a psychiatric ward and forced to confront whether the demon driving him to kill is real or a symptom of his unraveling mind. With a relentless detective closing in and a violent copycat muddying the truth, he makes one last attempt to set things right, culminating in a brutal, tragic reckoning that exposes the reality of his “curse” and leaves lasting scars on those he loves.
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29. Catwoman, Vol. 1
The Dark End of the Street
After being presumed dead, a notorious thief returns to Gotham’s East End with a new look and a renewed sense of purpose, determined to protect the vulnerable in her neighborhood. As a grizzled private investigator digs into the mystery of her disappearance, she tracks a killer targeting sex workers and confronts corruption that reaches into the city’s institutions. The story blends heist-tinged action with gritty noir to recast a morally gray antihero as a street-level guardian walking a razor-thin line between outlaw and protector.
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30. Kill Or Be Killed #1
A depressed grad student in New York survives a suicide attempt and is visited by a sinister entity that claims his life was spared on the condition that he kill one person each month. Torn between disbelief and fear, he begins to rationalize vigilante justice, targeting those he deems predatory, even as his tangled relationships and fragile mental state push him deeper into a moral and psychological spiral.
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31. Criminal, Vol. 6
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32. Criminal, Vol. 5
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33. Fatale, Vol. 1
A hard-boiled, noir-inflected mystery in which a down-on-his-luck detective becomes obsessed with a beautiful, enigmatic woman whose presence seems to kindle violence and inexplicable obsession; as he investigates, he uncovers traces of an ancient, occult force and a ruthless cult stretching across decades, and the narrative shifts between eras to reveal how desire, fate and a malignant supernatural influence warp the lives of everyone who crosses her path.
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34. Incognito, Vol. 1
A gritty, noir-inflected thriller about a former supervillain put into a government program that suppresses his powers and forces him into a bland, anonymous life; when violence and betrayal drag him back into the city’s criminal underworld, he must navigate crooked agents, dangerous powered foes and his own violent instincts, wrestling with questions of identity, free will and whether a person can ever truly go straight.
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35. Sleeper Season Two
Holden Carver, an undercover operative trapped deep inside a powerful crime syndicate, continues to play both sides as he manipulates mob bosses and clandestine handlers to survive and pursue his own agenda. Season Two raises the stakes with escalating betrayals, shifting loyalties and brutal consequences as his double life erodes his sense of self, forcing him into ever-riskier gambits. Gritty, noir-laced plotting and moody, expressive art drive a tense, morally ambiguous thriller about identity, revenge and the personal cost of deception.
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36. The Fade Out, Vol. 1
A moody noir set in late-1940s Hollywood following a troubled screenwriter whose wartime trauma and alcohol-fueled lapses collide with the discovery of a dead actress linked to his studio; as he and a determined police investigator dig in, they uncover a web of studio cover-ups, corrupt cops, and dangerous secrets that expose the dark underside of the movie business and the cost of remembering — or forgetting — the past.
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