What I love about alternate universe stories is how they show just how crazy things can get. If a protagonist makes a different choice, we’re taken down a different road. That is why most of us are fascinated with these alternate worlds. It’s a concept so pervasive that when you mention “Mirror Universe”, individuals who have never seen an episode will know you’re talking about Star Trek and the concept.

This makes sense why Star Trek Discovery, has utilized it within its first 2 seasons. It gives us a different look and version of a character we have grown accustomed to. It presents possibilities which intrigues the most.  In Acursian Chapter 22, we find Rory discovering the life he could have had.

We open up on Charlie and Corra arriving at the Isle of Shadows, where Nate is tending to Corra’s sisters, who are being affected by the loss of the necklace.  This pushes the three to take drastic measures so that Charlie can get Ceillech’s orb and Corra can save her sisters. We also find Bregon and Rory at Charlie’s ancestral home. Where a skirmish breaks out between the two and Rory grabs the staff. By the issue’s end, Rory uses the staff to get back to Charlie .

Overall, Acursian Chapter 22 is a great entry that gives the protagonist a bit of humanity. The story by the creative team is satisfying. The art by the creative team is pleasing to the eye. Altogether, the story spurs the imagination.

Story: John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis Art: Beni Lobel and  Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

Playing cards is a skill that most people don’t quite master. As with most games, it’s all about reading people. “Reading” your opponent remains the most important aspect in the way you play. We see it all the time, in football, where teams game plan for weeks on end.

In card games, you plan your game as you go. That is why it is always interesting to watch when someone overplays their hand. It is definitely devastating to the player. In Acursian Chapter 21, we find Charlie underestimating one such adversary.

We open up on Charlie and Alison entering the Witches Realm, which they soon find out is a trap and Charlie comes up short on what he promised Flora.  We also find Corra and Nate as they are holding a rendezvous with Alba, who holds their mother, and where Nate lets her know that Bregon has an ulterior motive. We also find Bregon and Rory looking for the talismans in the 16th century, at Charlie’s ancestral home. By the issue’s end, Charlie and Corra figure out the next steps after Flora holds Alison as a prisoner, maybe even taking desperate measures.

Overall, Acursian Chapter 21 is an action-packed entry in the series that raises the stakes. The story by John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis is enjoyable. The art by Beni Lobel and  Tommy Lee Edwards is elegant. Altogether, it’s a story that puts our protagonist on notice.

Story: John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis Art: Beni Lobel and  Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

The show Game Of Thrones is one that explores family dynamics in its most palatial settings. We saw how each of the major houses dealt with the “black sheep”. None were as more gracious than the Starks. Ned not only took in his sister’s son but also the ward of an enemy.

We also saw how certain houses, like the Lannisters, dealt with the favoritism of certain siblings. The favoritism of the Twins made the family dynamic highly unstable and grew resentment amongst the siblings. Tyrion proved to be not only the smartest character but also the most noble. In the Acursian Chapter 20, we find Bregon and Rory giving the reader two versions of “bad seeds”.

We open up on Nate, as he soon finds out just what kind of power Albion had been enjoying, as he revels in a state of euphoria. We’re also taken to the 18th Century, to the Isle of Coll where Bregon is explaining to Rory exactly why he was taken and unveiling his master plan. By the issue’s end, Charlie tries to go it alone, but Alison makes it that she comes along, leaving Rory to possibly lose both parents.

Overall, Acursian Chapter 20 a fun entry in the webcomic series that shows how dense the world-building is. The story by John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis is pleasing. The art by Beni Lobel and Tommy Lee Edwards is gorgeous. Altogether, the story adds a few more screws to its protagonists.

Story: John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis Art: Beni Lobel and Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

One of my all-time favorite shows is Grimm. The show was about a police detective who finds out that he is a part of a long line of monster hunters. He proves to be more than your typical heir, as he uses his skills as an investigator and his natural skills as a demon hunter to be a tour de force. The show is steeped in world-building and is filled with monster mythology from all over the world.

The show was immersed in a multitude of plotlines and character hierarchies. One of the most pivotal points in the show was when the main character revealed to his significant other exactly who he is. This became a true tide change, leaving all the characters to change with the big reveal. In Acursian Chapter 19, we find Charlie revealing to Alison exactly what he has been up to.

We find Charlie back in Milwaukee and find out exactly what he has been dealing including the family curse. Initially, Alison doesn’t believe him which causes Corra to show her that she is truly a goddess. We are also taken to the 18^th Century Isle O doll, where Bregon has taken Rory. Bregon reveals he is in search of the necklace Alison has as it emanates some powerful elements. By the issue’s end, Bregon takes a powerful step in securing power and Charlie may have found one way in finding him and Rory.

Overall, Acursian Chapter 19 is a great entry that pushes boundaries. The story by John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis is enjoyable. The art by Beni Lobel and Tommy Lee Edwards is surprising. Altogether, the story that puts all characters on notice.

Story: John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis Art: Beni Lobel and Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

It’s always fun to watch our protagonists get taught a lesson. As you get engrossed in their story you also get to see their flaws. Their flaws are what usually get us to identify with the character more. We can be assured of their eventual fall and rise due to them.

Their fall is what reminds us that failure and contrarians are a part of life. That makes the rise so much more rewarding. It reminds the reader they can overcome just about anything. Such is life and what makes everything worthwhile. In Acursian Chapter 18, we find Charlie getting his “just desserts”.

We find Charlie in the Witches Realm, where they have temporarily turned him into a pig, as they decide thet want inject some humility into him before striking a deal.  Charlie is then transported back to Chicago, where Corra and Nate , where they have to find the orb before any more dead bodies surface. We are also taken to 1560 Clare Island, where Bregon  is conspiring with Grace, on how to steal power from his sisters . By issue’s end, Bregon travels to modern day Milwaukee and kidnaps Rory.

Overall, Acursian Chapter 18 is an action-packed entry in the series that raises the stakes. The story by John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis is satisfying. The art by Beni Lobel and Tommy Lee Edwards is astounding. Altogether, the story adds a bit of action to the series.

Story: John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis Art: Beni Lobel and  Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

Within any story, it is always nice to find out when a plan has been more elaborate than the reader imagined. This intrigue is what pulls you more into it. These few surprises is what make you wonder what happens next. As the character’s motivations become apparent, and you know who is who.

One such great example is in Game Of Thrones. When we find out that Jorah Mormont was there to watch over Daenarys to help the Lannisters. This plan would become void as he would eventually fall in love with her.  In Acursian Chapter 17, we find out Nate’s motivation

We find Charlie in the Witches Realm, where they have a certain purpose of capturing him.  We are also taken back to the Isle of Shadows, where Corra and Alba discover Bregon’s true plan, leading to team up against him. We also find Nate traveling to the Isle Of Shadows, where he meets his father, Albion, and we find out that Nate was sent to help Charlie. By issue’s end, Charlie tries to bargain with the witches, but they outsmart him

Overall, Acursian Chapter 17 is a funny entry that enlightens the reader. The story by John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis is pleasurable. The art by Beni Lobel and  Tommy Lee Edwards is dazzling. Altogether, the chapter is a nice fun romp for the series.

Story: John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis Art: Beni Lobel and  Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

When it comes to iconic screen actors, none were better than Sean Connery. As his presence was phenomenal to watch. As a family member mentioned upon his passing, we were the last generation to see him on the big screen. As the current state of the world will only have younger generations looking him up versus discovering who he was from an older generation.

One of his most iconic roles is that of Henry Jones in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. As his role in that movie showed his range and just how endearing he truly was. The one scene that stands out in my mind in that movie is the one where our hero encounters the last Templar knight. In Acursian Chapter 16, Charlie encounters someone similar to the character in that iconic scene.

We find Nate fending off their magical foes, as they try to thwart Charlie from entering the Witches realm, as the witch Charlie encounters doesn’t know if he is trustworthy yet, but he soon finds out what exactly Jock did in this time and space.  We are also taken back to the Isle of Shadows, where Corra has just defeated Aeron, but their mother’s health is slowly fading. We are also taken to 1560, off the coast of Ireland, where Grace gives Bregon, a weapon to defeat his sisters once and for all. By the issue’s end, Nate may be in danger, as his scuffle, leads to him rapidly vanishing.

Overall, Acursian Chapter 16 is an excellent entry that adds a few more twists. The story by the creative team is enjoyable. The art by the creative team is brilliant. Altogether, the story gives readers a few more plot points to ponder.

Story: John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika LewisArt: Beni Lobel and Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

Children need parents like plants need water. Our nurture and care to them set a precedent in their minds of what they are expected to do when they are in our shoes. That is why it is critical, that we remain present through their developing years. This is where they begin to form their value system and their identity.

As that is the reason why we question the parents when adults become something less than despicable. This is why when criminals do what they do, we look for the root cause. That is why the act of nurture is so essential. In Acursian Chapter 15, we find out what happens to Charlie’s family in his absence.

We are caught up with Charlie and his friends, back in Milwaukee, in present-day,  where Allison catches him up on what has transpired over the last 13 years, including raising their son by herself. We are also taken back to the Isle of Shadows, where Corra comes back to help her sisters fight Aeron, but he summons the Harpies to aid him. We are also taken to 1560, off the coast of Ireland, where Grace and Bregon catch up with each other. By issue’s end, Charlie and Nate go to Chicago, as they know a way to end the curse, one that is more than Charlie bargained for.

Overall, Acursian Chapter 15 is a great entry that elevates the plotline. The story by John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis is pleasing. The art by Beni Lobel and Tommy Lee Edwards is exceptional. Altogether, the story gives readers more of what they have come to enjoy from this series.

Story: John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis Art: Beni Lobel and  Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

The best thing about time travel stories is the changes that happen. There are always possibilities that you never saw coming. It also stands to reason that there are things which you wanted to happen, and you do everything in your power to ensure it. This is where things always get tricky and one choice can let things go awry.

One of the best examples of messing with time travel is the brilliant but short-lived show Timeless. The show used familiar tropes within the genre, but also capitalized on telling some unique stories. One of the biggest stories which made the show great and heart-wrenching, was when they erased the protagonist’s sister, a catalyst that only pushed our protagonist to correct time. In Acursian Chapter 14, we find out how Charlie deals with changes and consequences.

We are caught up with Charlie and his friends, back in Milwaukee, hoping they came to the place before the dagger showed up in their lives. We are also taken back to the Isle of Shadows, where Ceillech’s warriors are trying to free the King, but Aeron is not going down without a fight. We are also taken to 1520, off the coast of Ireland, where Grace uses the dagger to steal some loot, but not before arriving back in Alba’s cave, where Bregon is awaiting her. By the issue’s end, Charlie finds out that time has jumped 13 years and Allison doesn’t know who Nate is.

Overall, Acursian Chapter 14 is a grand entry that pushes stories in different directions. The story by the creative team is rewarding. The art by the creative team is outstanding. Altogether, the story becomes even more imbued in time jumping.

Story: John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis Art: Beni Lobel and  Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

As a child, you often worship your parents. As children, we often need love and attention, and if our parents do that we know that we have someone we can always count on. It is often with the ravages of time, that armor slowly sheds away, bit by bit, year by year. Then we go from figures we revere to figures we often identify with.

We often find ourselves, whether in secret or out loud, acknowledging the weaknesses our parents pass on to us. We rarely revel in the strengths that we inherit. It is often when we find out something new about that loved one, we find out a truth about them that adds to their legend. In Acursian Chapter 13, we find out how Charlie deals with a new revelation about Jock.

We are caught up with Charlie and his friends, as they finally open Jock’s treasure box, revealing some oddities to his whereabouts before Charlie was born, and how he may have been well aware of the Isle of Shadows. We are also taken back to the Isle of Shadows, in Alba’s Cavern, where Alba reveals to Bregon, that a face from his past, may be the key to getting everything he wants. Also, we find out Nate has had the dagger all the time, and possibly in the nick of time, as Hoover’s police squad has the friends in a standoff. By the issue’s end, Connell finally slices the time back to where it needs ot be , but it may be too late.

Overall, Acursian Chapter 13 is a marvelous entry that raises the stakes for our heroes. The story by John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis is gratifying. The art by Beni Lobel and Tommy Lee Edwards is superb. Altogether, the story ratchets up the action in this installment.

Story: John Barrowman, Carole Barrowman, and Erika Lewis Art: Beni Lobel and Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy