Can we just take a moment to note I found a new comic crush? I got to thank Johns and the artist on this run to really make me love Mera. Not only is she badass, can defend herself, and is super smart. She's fucking sexy. Like DAMN GURL sexy. Like it's scary how hot I find her because she's on a piece of paper and not real. The movie gotta do a lot of work to live up to this one!

Aquaman is trying to balance respecting people above the sea while fighting for the throne below. The people are following him but not all respect him. This volume really goes wild and we see multiple views of different characters that all begin to intertwine with each other. By the end we get a reveal that was both sad and horrifying. Especially for Arthur.

What I liked: I loved Mera in here. Her coming to terms of who she wants to be was a perfect full circle. Then you got Arthur learning that a king's choice could be a dangerous one. I really enjoyed most of the side characters, even the selfish ones focusing on destruction and death. They had reason to. I also liked the big reveal, I thought that was well done and handled with care.

What I didn't like: Mera's "husband" was a silly character and the big "OH NO" ending was kind of forced. It be better if it was Mantis...the person he went for makes no sense for that character IMO.

Overall Johns run was super fun and exciting. Even the worst volume (volume 2) was still a lot of fun just the weakest. I truly recommend people wanting to give Aquaman a chance to check out Johns run. Well worth the read.