Author: markswritingcorner

Mark Ahern was born in 1979 and is from Ireland. He attained a Degree in Commerce from UCD in 2000 and a Masters in European Studies in 2001. He has written three novels to date encompassing science fiction and thrillers. At times Mark has used his experiences as an individual with a disability to write from a truly unique perspective. "Chronicles of Martan" which is his sole science fiction work to date, is an epic space odyssey inspired by his love of Star Wars. This was followed by "Not the Usual Suspect" and "Paradigm". His current project is called "The Irish Ripper" and should be available late 2019.

Exploring Dean Potter: The Dark Wizard of Extreme Climbing

My dear readers. As a person who never walked, climbing was way out of reach. It is something that occasionally fascinates me. I’ll be honest, if I was able bodied, I wouldn’t risk it. I definitely wouldn’t free climb.

If you want to know how nutty people can be, then you need to watch this.

From the very first frame, The Dark Wizard Episode 1 grabs you with the raw, exhilarating energy of extreme climbing and never lets go. Titled “The Death Consequence,” this opening installment serves as a powerful introduction to the legendary—and often controversial—figure of Dean Potter.

It masterfully blends breathtaking footage of his daring feats with intimate glimpses into the man behind the myth, setting up what promises to be one of the most thought-provoking docuseries of the year.The episode opens by immersing viewers in Potter’s early years in Yosemite during the 1990s, where he bursts onto the scene as a fiercely talented, renegade climber. We see him forging new ascents, setting world records, and connecting deeply with a tight-knit community of like-minded adventurers who thrive on the sport’s intoxicating mix of freedom and adrenaline.

The cinematography is nothing short of spectacular—sweeping shots of towering granite walls, heart-pounding sequences of free soloing and base jumping, and slow-motion captures that make you feel the wind and the exposure. It’s viscerally exciting, the kind of footage that leaves you breathless and in awe of human potential.

What elevates this episode beyond a simple highlight reel of athletic achievements is its honest, unflinching exploration of Potter’s inner world. Friends and contemporaries, including Alex Honnold, share candid reflections on his restless energy and the darker undercurrents that drove him. One particularly poignant thread is how Potter used the “death consequence”—that razor-edge awareness of mortality during his most extreme pursuits—as a form of therapy to quiet his racing mind and battle personal demons. Journal entries come alive on screen, revealing a sensitive, introspective soul seeking clarity through emptiness and risk. Lines like “I need to quiet my mind” hit hard, transforming the narrative from pure adrenaline into a profound meditation on mental health, self-medication through danger, and the complex relationship between joy and struggle.

Five stars out of five. Just don’t copy him. A ticket to an early death.

Distant Love (Part 72)

Two cloaked figures walking on wet path near lit stone cottage during rain

“Oh God, come in! Your soaked. And Maeve, your not much better. Come on in the two of ye.” She gets a towel and starts patting him down.

“I’ll be okay,” Derek insists.

“It’ll be the death of ya. People get sick with a soakin’ ya know.” A deep now hung on her face. Then she continues. “I forgot to mention it earlier to either of you, there are a few people coming to meet Maeve later.”

“Who, auntie?” Maeve’s eyes open wide.

“Marcus and some of the others. They’ll be here in a couple of hours.”

The room goes silent.

“Who are they?” Derek enquired.

The older woman replied. “Oh friends of the family.” Both women looked knowingly at each other.

Derek thinks to himself. This is interesting. They must be resistance members that they are meeting, Best to play dumb.

He says, “Sure it will be good for me to meet your friends Maeve. It’s important that I get to know your circle.”

She looks at him with a smile. “Yes, it is. I hope you like them, they can be a raucous bunch. You won’t be seeing them that often anyway, they only come round every so often.”

Zendaya Shines in Euphoria’s Electrifying Season Premiere

Broken mirror shards, spilled foundation, red lipstick, powders, brushes, and glitter on a wooden surface

Euphoria Season 3 Episode 1, titled “Ándale,” is an electrifying return to form that reminds us exactly why this show has captivated audiences for years. After a long wait, the series picks up with its signature raw intensity, delivering a premiere that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in the chaotic lives we’ve come to know.

The opening sequence is one of the best I’ve seen in years. Rue tries to literally drive over Trumps wall (a very large palisade fence) using long planks of wood. They are already in place. However, she gets stuck at the top as the back wheels are in the air when she needs thrust to go downwards. Then she tries to move her weight around to see if it makes a difference, it doesn’t. So, she has to get out of the car, walk down the plank and walk. A classic start.

Zendaya once again delivers a powerhouse performance as Rue, capturing the vulnerability, wit, and quiet desperation of her character with breathtaking nuance. The episode’s opening sequence is a masterclass in tension and visuals—cinematography that is nothing short of stunning, blending high-stakes action with the show’s trademark stylized beauty. It’s thrilling, visually immersive, and sets a gripping tone for the new chapter as the characters navigate life beyond high school.

What stands out most is the blend of dark humor and emotional honesty that permeates the hour. Moments of levity cut through the heavier themes in ways that feel authentic and surprisingly funny, while the character dynamics remain as messy, compelling, and addictive as ever. The direction keeps everything feeling intimate yet epic, and the absence of over-the-top explicit content in this episode allows the story and performances to shine even brighter.This premiere expertly reintroduces us to a world that’s evolved but still pulses with the same heart-wrenching energy. It’s bold, beautifully crafted, and leaves you eagerly counting down the days until the next episode. If this is any indication, Season 3 is going to be an unforgettable ride. Highly recommended—Euphoria is back. Four stars out of five from me.

Wheelchair Wars Audrey 3 (v)

Human figure frozen in cryogenic chamber with frost and tubes in sci-fi lab

Within minutes, all the other troopers were in their pods.

Audrey shuffled herself forward in her chair and put on arm on the pod for support. “I’ll need your assistance, now.”

Brona supported her to stand and then to lay down into the pod. Her long hair draped over Audrey, she smelled of soap. Audrey felt a tingle run through her body.

Timothy would like her.

Pushing back her hair with her hand, she smiled. “Are you okay now?”

Feeling warm all over, Audrey smiled back. “That is fine. Go to your pod. When you wake, I will need your assistance once more.

Brona placed her hand on Audrey’s. Her hand was warm, soft. “I’ll be just over there.” Brona pointed to a nearby pod.

Audrey nodded, then pulled the translucent opening closed.

For a brief moment she wondered what awaited her on the other side. A strange new world full of horrible Sisters, no doubt Then her thoughts turned to Timothy, the love of her lfe and if she would ever see him again.

The pod turned cold. The hairs on her arm stood up and her breath became white. A few seconds later a white gas gushed over her body.

Wheelchair Wars Audrey 3 (iv)

Three people inside illuminated futuristic cryogenic pods emitting mist in a sci-fi chamber

The bridge was small and difficult to drive the battle chair around. A man with long grey hair was standing in front of the viewport.

“Are you the captain?” Audrey enquired, her voice echoing around the deck.

He tuned around, adorned with deep lines across his forehead and crow’s feet. in a shabby, torn blue uniform. “Yes, I am. My name is Carthage. Sorry that the bridge is so cramped. Not very accessible. It’s not a priority where this ship is from.

Audrey shuddered. “Is there anything I need to know about it?”

He rested his hand on the captain’s seat for support. “It’s more of the shock when you come back, We will be travelling close to light speed. While you are in stasis much time will pass.”

Audrey swallowed. “I know. All in service to the Emperor.”

Carthage then continued. “Well then, you should go to your pod. When I next see you, we should have arrived.”

Audrey turned and went to the back of the ship where her pod was waiting for her. It was in the center, with row after row of other pods surrounding it.

“Enter your hibernation pods,” she bellowed.

Brona went to leave before Audrey hushed, “Not you.”

Wheelchair Wars 3 (iii)

Military officer in wheelchair inspecting lined-up armored soldiers in futuristic space station

“We have been given a mission of the utmost importance by our most beloved Emperor. At all times, your total obedience and loyalty are expected.”

With that, she watched her troops, a mixture of stern-faced men and women, walk up the long ramp to the ship.

A sound of feet clattering. Audrey turned to see one of her troops running towards her.

A young woman with long, blonde hair and piercing blue eyes spoke. She was trembling. “I’m so sorry for being late. There is no excuse.”

I should really punish her. Set a good example for the others.

Audrey looked behind her. All the other troops are inside.

However, I could use an assistant. And she does look good.

“What is your name, trooper?” Audrey asks in a softer tone.

“Brona,” she replies, standing upright.

“Well, Brona, as punishment, you will be my personal assistant for the mission.”

Bron’s eyes flicker towards her and then away. “Okay, as you wish.”

“Walk behind me at all times. Speak only when spoken to. Now come along.”

Audrey pushed her joystick forward, and they made their way up the rampway into the ship. Inside, the troopers were already readying their hibernation pods.

Audrey headed to the bridge to talk to the captain.

Wheelchair Wars Audrey 3 (ii)

Rocket lifting off from a launch pad with fiery exhaust and city buildings in the background at sunset

“Your destination is over eight light-years away. It is a planet of ice and fire. Make sure to bring plenty of warm clothes. We lose heat quickly compared to the walkers. The ship Empericus 546 is awaiting you, along with over two hundred troops at your direct command.”

He turned his wheelchair around to face her.

“You will be travelling at light speed. I will have aged greatly by your return, if I am alive at all. Know that this is an important mission for the Empire.”

She replied, her voice cracking, “I will do as the Emperor commands.”

“Then, that is all, Audrey. Report to port 46Y2 in under an hour.”

Tears welled in Audrey’s eyes as she drove her chair away from Oreus’ room.

I know that I must serve the Emperor, but I thought that at least I would have Timothy by my side. I may never even see him again.

She stopped and wiped away the tears. There was much for her to do and little time.

Over fifty minutes later, she was addressing her troops, who donned white uniforms and were armed with light machine guns as they prepared to board the Empericus 546 or what they would simply call the Empericus, while on mission.

Distant Love (Part 71)

Couple embracing inside cozy cabin with rainy window showing spaceship outside

Derek puts his hand through Maeve’s hair. “You feel so good. I love your beautiful eyes.”

She leans down kisses him again. “You too, and such lovely thick eyebrows.”

He places his hand on her right breast.

She squirms and takes it away. “I’m sorry, love. Can we take our time.”

He smiles. “Of course, when we’re both ready. There is no need to rush. You are worth waiting for.”

She kissed his forehead. “Thanks, for being so understanding. Now come on, I’m starving, and my aunts makes such great breakfast.”

Derek smirks. “No need to tell me that. Talk about sausages to die for.”

With that, they both laugh head out of the ship and back to the house over the gravel surface. The sky begins to darken.

“Now Derek, no need to get despondent over the threat of rain. It happens way too often for that sort of thing.”

He stops the chair and smiles. “You have a point in fairness.”

The first drops begin to fall. Then more, before a downpour. Derek is soaked on his return. Maeve’s auntie holds her hand to her mouth on seeing him.

He shakes his head and drops of water fall off either side of his head.

Review: The Testaments Episode 1 – A Stunning Dystopian Journey

Multiple people wearing red cloaks walking on a damaged street in a destroyed city.

Ah readers, there is surely no better way to spend a Friday afternoon than reviewing a series in one of my favorite dystopian universes.

Is it strange that I loved The Handmaids Tale, being a man and all. I couldn’t care less.

Years after the events of The Handmaid’s Tale, The Testaments (on Hulu) follows two teenage girls navigating life inside the oppressive regime: the dutiful and pious Agnes (played with quiet intensity and breakout star power by Chase Infiniti) and the spirited newcomer Daisy (Lucy Halliday), a convert from beyond Gilead’s borders. Assigned as mentor and mentee at Aunt Lydia’s elite preparatory school for future wives—where obedience is enforced with brutal, divinely justified precision—their unlikely bond becomes the emotional core and catalyst for upheaval.

To date, I’ve only seen the first episode but that will change this weekend.

What makes this setup so brilliant is how it reframes the dystopia through youthful eyes. Instead of the raw desperation of Handmaids, we get the gilded cage of privilege mixed with stifling control: lavish yet suffocating halls, rigid social hierarchies, and the constant psychological weight of expected perfection. The series smartly avoids retreading familiar ground—no sea of red cloaks in the early episodes—and instead builds a textured, lived-in world that feels both evolved and eerily consistent with what came before. It’s a defiant coming-of-age tale that explores friendship, identity, rebellion, and the quiet power of connection in the face of systemic cruelty.

Visually, The Testaments is stunning. The production design contrasts opulent, pristine settings with underlying menace—think polished marble and elegant uniforms that mask the brutality beneath. Cinematography captures both the grandeur and the claustrophobia of this society, while the score enhances the emotional undercurrents without overpowering the performances.

Giving the first episode 4 stars out of 5.

Have you seen it? What did you think?

Wheelchair Wars Audrey 3 (i)

Dark courtroom with judge's bench and large eagle emblem, people seated along sides

The door automatically opened and Audrey entered. It was Oreus’ personal quarters in the Fianna compound. Her eyes bulged at the luxurious large quarters and all the screens. Her presence had been requested over an hour ago, the reason undisclosed.

He was in the center of the room waiting for her, his face unreadable. “Thank you, for your attendance, Audrey.”

Audrey halted her chair about a meter away from him. “What do I owe the pleasure?”

Oreus grinned. “The pleasure is all mine. You did the Fianna proud, and now after facing the menace of Chaos, a good servant of the Emperor.”

Her eyebrows raised. “So, why have I been summoned?”

He continued. “You have been summoned because we have a new mission for you. Wheelchair Wars has exploded in popularity. You are now something of an icon. But remember, fealty to the Emperor is all that matters.”

Turning away, he went to the large window. Below, fighters were training. “An important relic from the Sisters of Vengeance has gone missing. You are to set off to Ciesta 9 and retrieve it, whatever the cost, immediately. You may take a platoon of the Emperor’s troops.

“What about Timothy?” Audrey blurted out.

“The Governor will be speaking to him shortly. The Emperor has a different vision for him”