Mera: Tidebreaker

Liked that the art was done in greens/blues/grays with the exception of Mera's hair. Think middle/high schoolers will like this even without knowledge of the Aquaman universe (I have none of that) because it's about defining a sense of self outside of parents and cultural expectations. I do find that, like with many superhero origin stories, you just have to suspend disbelief and want of plot sense to go with what's happening.

~Follow all my reviews over on my blog, The Bent Bookworm!~ Confession: this was the reviewer version of a cover-buy. I know absolutely nothing about Mera, or Aquaman, or the DC version of Atlantis. I requested a review copy because I saw it on NetGalley and went, “Ooooh a red-haired girl with a trident!” Then I read it, and it said Atlantis, and I still thought maybe it had something to do with Greek gods because of the trident. So sue me. I STILL ENJOYED IT! So I am living, breathing proof that you don't have to have back story to enjoy this graphic novel.Mera: Tidebreaker is an origin story for Mera, but even without knowing her future (I didn't, I only looked it up after I finished this book) I thoroughly enjoyed the story, mainly for the stunning artwork. It has a brighter look and feel to it than a lot of the graphic novels I've picked up and it made it much easier to read and very engaging. Mera is such an intriguing character - immature, headstrong, but with ability and heart - and a TON of potential. Then there is the ongoing battle between Atlantis and Xebel, with SO MUCH there that wasn't explained - I'm guessing because it is explained in the actual comics. And Arthur - I'm very interested in his back story, like how did his parents ever meet and why did he grow up as he did?My one complaint with this story was the instalove. SO MUCH INSTALOVE. Why?!? I feel like even a teenage girl of Mera's character and inclinations wouldn't just suddenly -poof- fall in love with a boy just because he was nice to her. It seemed so off for her, so strange and jarring...maybe there is something there that I'm missing due to my lack of knowledge about the rest of their story, but I just really felt like that didn't belong. Why does she have to end up paired up right now? Why not just assume that happens later, but that they MEET right now?Regardless of that, 4/5 stars for beautiful artwork and engaging story.Blog Twitter Bloglovin Instagram