Winters in Lavelle - copyright Kasey Van Hise 2009
This is how Kasey describes it: "When siblings Aiden and Kari Winters discover that an old family heirloom leads to a fantastic world, their haphazard use of the old crystal globe leaves them stranded. The two search for a way home, but discover strange abilities of their own, unlike anything found on Earth. As they become embroiled in the politics of the kingdom of Lavelle, the bickering brother and sister discover more about themselves, each other, and the involvement of their family in this strange world."
Read more after the jump!
As the series opens, we are introduced to Aiden and Kari Winters, a brother and sister who are practically raising themselves. The strip is quick to establish that the Winters siblings have a distant relationship with their father, which gives 18 year-old Aiden motivation to seek some sort of escape. After pointing out to his sister Kari that their father is never around when they need him Aiden uses the crystal orb to enter a distant mystical realm. Soon after, Kari decides to follow after her older brother, and the adventure begins!
Winters in Lavelle - copyright 2009 Kasey Van Hise
The artwork appears to be influenced by Japanese manga, rendered in black & white with lush grey-tones, but also evoked memories of the classic fantasy series ElfQuest for me. (I dunno why, since there were no elves to be seen, but hey, that's me.)
Winters in Lavelle - copyright 2009 Kasey Van Hise
Like many of the better web-comics, this one appears to be a labor of love. With two chapters completed and a third on the way, full of gorgeous artwork and characters that most young readers will relate to, Winters in Lavelle is a great read for all ages!
To learn more about Kasey, visit her website and see more of her artwork on DeviantArt.com!