The problem with talking about Rex Mundi is that to give away any specific plot details from this issue would spoil some of the major revelations that the series revolves around. The best comparison I can make is that this issue is like the penultimate chapter of a good thriller novel. The main twists have been revealed, some relationships reach a proper resolution, and all that’s left is the final showdown. It’s setup, the calm before the final storm. And like a good thriller novel, Rex Mundi #18 makes the setup infinitely entertaining and enthralling.

Picking up with the last issue’s bombshell, Nelson continues to play with, subvert, and explore the mythology of the Holy Grail and religion in general. Nelson manages to treat spirituality with respect, while at the same time subverting some dogmatic ideas. He also shows a great depth of knowledge of somewhat obscure Christian doctrines, and if the last few pages are any indication, the final issue looks to be a truly creepy twist on the second coming prophecies.

Alongside all the spiritual discussion and mythology subversions, Nelson still has the time to resolve some of the subplots that have populated the book from the start. The love triangle reaches a somber conclusion, while Sauniere and Moricant bury the hatchet in the face of Lorraine’s crusade. Even the newspaper backup, the Le Journal de la Liberte, returns, and Nelson is able to give some great journalistic pieces on the world war that Lorraine created. The unique world that the series is home to has always been one of the highlights of Rex Mundi, and Le Journal has proven to be the best window into it, and a wonderfully entertaining piece of supplementary material.

Considering that Rex Mundi is a mystery thriller that mostly consists of people talking and little action, Juan Ferreyra’s ability to make every panel look stunning is amazing. Handling every aspect of the art, Ferreyra’s managed to subtly play with the colors, altering the lighting and mood. At the same time, his style has proven to be surprising varied. Images vary from serene, stately funerals to violent massacres, and yet the Mucha-esque art never feels out of place. The art even takes a turn towards the horror films of the '30s and '50s, with dark, atmospheric interiors of a castle. Just as Eric J’s art was perfect for the series’ initial noir tone, Ferreyra’s art excels in the adventurous second half.

With one issue left, it will be interesting to see where Nelson and Ferreyra take the finale. Rex Mundi has been a wonderful mix of noir, adventure, tragedy, and drama. It has also been an intrinsically plotted masterpiece, a perfect thriller that shows the range of what a comic book can be. All the pieces were set for a dramatic showdown in this issue, and if “David’s Throne” is any indication, the final issue should be full of twists, suspense, and satisfying resolutions. It’s not often a comic manages to provide all of those, but Rex Mundi seems to be making them its bread and butter.

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