Heart Throbs #1

"Spoiled Brat" kicks off in Heart Throbs #1 (1949), a 10-cent gem from Quality Comics, where stenographer Judy dreams of a wealthy future at Lake Shore Manor—only to fall for Marty, who’s playing the same game. Written, drawn, inked, and lettered by Paul Gustavson in a rare full-creator effort, the story unfolds with quiet charm as Judy and Marty navigate class and deception, their shared secret leading to a surprisingly honest ending. The cover by Bill Ward captures the era’s glamour, perfectly framing the tale’s mix of ambition and sincerity.