Marvel 1602 was one of the earliest American comic books I ever read, during a high school Neil Gaiman binge. I'm not sure I had ever read a Marvel comic before. I was only familiar with the characters from the first two X-Men films, but I loved the Elizabethan setting, so I happily muddled through the confusing parts. I was delighted to discover this companion volume written by Marguerite Bennett, primarily illustrated by Stephanie Hans (other artists step in to illustrate some of the short stories sprinkled throughout the four chapters). The story begins with Angela and her lover Serah, confronting and then killing King James, who in the struggle reveals himself to be a Witchbreed. In the Mermaid Tavern they encounter an even more dangerous enemy: a Faustian. Whereas Witchbreeds are born with powers, Faustians gain their powers by bartering with a dark supernatural being. This presence reveals herself to Angela and makes a threatening promise: if Angela kills three more Faustians, Serah will die. Angela must make a choice to give up her calling or give up her one true love. This is a very strong mini series, with a nice balance of humor and drama. The art is gorgeously luscious and matches the tone of the writing perfectly. And I can attest to the fact this book stands on it's own even if you are unfamiliar with the title character.