A YA fantasy graphic novel that promises romance and politics. What’s not to love? Unfortunately a lot. The Marble Queen is more potential than capable. 

Upon opening the book I was startled by the art. It was stunningly lacking in depth. The most egregious example of this being the shade that obscured her father and brother’s faces, rendered in solid black like donned masks. An artistic style I dislike is one thing however it does introduce shading as the book goes on leaving the illustrations uneven. Considering that the release was delayed, it’s unfortunate that care was so lacking. 

Amelia is an admirable protagonist; her love for her people true, even as she struggles against her anxiety. Admirable enough that their complete lack of identity doesn’t wholly undermine it. This isn’t unique to them. With a few Spanish names and some Arabic looking architecture you might almost believe that at least Salira’s people were given thought. But the Iliadi only almost have an identity. Amelia’s room is generically luxurious and locations like the dining room go out of their way to avoid any semblance of a background. The servants enter wearing French maid uniforms. 

Given the cover and military regalia, her usual attire consisting of trousers, I thought Salira was more masc. Then here comes Amelia in a cravat. Perhaps a cravat isn’t. Perhaps Salira is. There was no attempt at cohesion. No thought beyond this is pretty. A flaw that extends to the title. Is this in reference to Amelia’s pale Austeran skin? Is this a title of Iliad? Of Austera? 

However it was politics and romance that The Marble Queen sold itself on. The politics it set up quickly with the pirates’ chokehold on the seas and the destruction of Austera’s fleet. It’s urgent and woven up with Amelia and for a while is rife with the tension between what she wants and what is right. The treacheries were well telegraphed throughout though the shift to full throttle is clunky. 

In its favour, Salira and Amelia are an easy couple to root for. Both share a deep dedication to their countries. Salira cuts an intimidating figure but beyond that first meeting there’s clearly something kind in her. Their interactions are dotted with small kindnesses that develop their relationship nicely. Unfortunately this is something that falls away when the threats intensify. 

Amelia’s anxiety is another element I found well done. The visual of her trussed up in ribbons, the spectre of a potential suitor poised over her with a fork, is truly excellent. And I’m sorry that the art never rose to that height again. It’s one of the elements that the book manages to remember and deliver on, weaving it seamlessly and satisfyingly into the narrative.