elliel_nook's Reviews (601)

This is not my first time reading Castle Swimmer by Wendy Martin. I like many other readers started reading it on Webtoon years ago. But I personally struggled with Webtoon's format and a bad connection. So, I'm so happy and excited that Castle Swimmer is being released as a comic/graphic novel series!

It has been so long since I read Castle Swimmer on Webtoon that I didn't remember much of the story. What I did remember was I loved Castle Swimmer. I may be a bit bias. However, this was the first nostalgia read for me that felt like I was reading it for the first time all over again. The Characters, the lore, the art, the plot its so good! It all just pulled me in and I was and am content to stay.

The main characters Kappa and Siren are precious and relatable. I just want to hug them. They deserve hugs with the trauma they carry. Speaking of which, this volume cut off at the perfect moment. Nearly all the characters are left in intense time sensitive situations. The cliff hanger has me wishing the second volume was already out. Even though this (the first) volume isn't even out yet. (One of the downside to ARCs).

Overall, I'm excited for the next volume. Not just because I love the story and characters, but because I do remember one big event in this series and it didn't happen in this volume. I could see it being set up through the actions of different characters. I am so ready for more. Are there going to be more types of Mer? Whats going to happen to Kappa? Whats to become of the seemingly doomed budding romance? I can't wait to find out, I can't wait to finally finish reading this story. Lastly I want to say that the little extras included at the end were delightful.

This is the exact kind of manga I love, goofy with the undertone/hints of something darker, characters with tragic back stories, and beautiful art. I loved this volume and I'm so excited for the next one!
 

Another fun addition to a wonderful series. So much lore is dropped in this book. There are some darker moments and hints at the possible future of the series. However, as always the sweet and fun atmosphere of the romance is present. As is the healing and found family. I'm so excited to see what happens next!

Disclaimer: I requested and received a copy of this book from book sirens, my review is voluntary. 

The revenge of Captain Vessia by Leslie Allen is a story of freedom, love, and bloody revenge. I loved this book. It is both the queerest vampire book and the queerest pirate book I have read so far in my life. You could not throw a stick on Captain Vessia's ship without hitting a queer person. And every one of them, every character in this book is a badass. (Especially Charlie.)

Aside from truly amazing characters The Revenge of Captain Vessia also has an interesting setting. It's a fantasy world full of pirates, sword fighting, magic, and corrupt leaders. Leaders who will take everything, forcibly convert everyone, and laugh at their pain. Leaders who've made the wrong enemies. 

Overall I loved this book. The Revenge of Captain Vessia is Leslie Allen's debut book and it (in my opinion) deserves so much love. Books like this one are the reason love reading work by indie authors. I've always wanted a queer vampire or pirate book with well written transgender rep. And The Revenge of Captain Vessia is both. 

I want to end this review with the following statement. Remember to listen to the content warnings.