Black Tide: Awakening of the Key

Black Tide #1

by Debbie Bishop

(five stars) COMPLEX PLOT WITH MANY CHARACTERS By Tim Janson. Part Sci-fi, part fantasy, with elements of covert intrigue and superhero action, Black Tide is one of the more multifaceted stories I've read in quite a long time. Writer Debbie Bishop has woven a story that is extremely intricate and layered with plots, and sub-plots and even a few sub sub-plots, I think. It's certainly not a story you can breeze through and I found myself re-reading sections just to make sure I had everything straight. One thing Bishop does is devote a full page here and there to a character, giving their background, powers, etc, which really helps you get a handle on who is who in the story. Kind of like a graphic novel scorecard. The art by Mike S. Miller is first-rate and very smooth. If you like in-depth, elaborate storylines, then this is unquestionably a book you'll want to read. It's rare that you get a comic series this complex today. Reviewed by Tim Janson

Atlantis is now a myth, and the Atlanteans would like to keep it that way. Living secretly among us, their elite Black Ops team tries to protect us from supervillains from ancient times. As leader of the most covert black ops team in the world, Justin has devoted his life to saving others. Captured on a mission, he discovers that he was once the most powerful villain of Atlantis. After its demise 12,000 years ago, survivors recreated Atlantis and regenerated their higher beings who had been killed in the war. Villonious survived, but since they feared him, he was put in stasis and hidden from those who would free him. His love, Kaila, never gave up trying to find him. When she finally nearly succeeds, the heirarchy blocks his memories so he will not remember how to use his powers then forces him to be reborn. Now, on a mission to solve the mystery of a series of international murders, he is reunited with his enemies. In a weird twist of fate, he triggers the same series of events that led to the destruction of his ancient land. He is a changed man who remembers nothing of his past. But how he deals with the present will either save us or destroy us all. Volume 1 - 1st printing. "Awakening the Key!" Collects Black Tide (Image/Avatar/Angel Gate) #1-8. Written by Debbie Bishop. Art by Mike Miller. Cover by Andy Park.

208 pages, Paperback

First published December 30, 2004

Reviews

[Chetna Gambhir · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A rich fusion of sci-fi, fantasy, covert operations, and superhero drama, Black Tide: Awakening of the Key delivers an intricately layered story that keeps readers hooked from start to finish."

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)

Summary
Black Tide: Awakening of the Key is an action-packed and intriguing graphic novel collection, including issues 1-8. Debbie Bishop constructs a rich and complex world where myth and reality meet-a modern-day world where the lost city of Atlantis exists, a tale of redemption, hidden identities, and the looming threats of humanity. Justin, leader of an elite Black Ops team, struggles with his hidden past as Villonious, a powerful Atlantean villain.

The story is a multi-faceted narration of identity, loyalty, and destiny, all set against the canvas of Mike S. Miller's magnificent art, which comes to breathe life into this gorgeous world. Themes of ancient civilization, covert missions, and the epic battle between good and evil, the graphic novel keeps on giving to the fan of intrigue-based plots.

Key Highlights
1. Intricate Plot That Engages
• The plot is a mix of old mythology and future covert operations, making it both nostalgic and contemporary.
• The revelation of Justin's secret identity as a former villain adds emotional depth and intrigue.
• The narrative explores redemption and second chances, keeping readers emotionally invested.
2. Mythology Meets Modernity
• The secret survival of Atlanteans in modern society is a fascinating premise.
• It is an adaptation of old legends, but with a modern, action-packed twist.
3. Well-Developed Characters
• Justin's journey from being an oblivious Black Ops leader to confronting his past is well-paced and engaging.
• Supporting characters, such as Kaila and the mysterious Atlantean hierarchy, add layers of intrigue and moral ambiguity.
4. Exceptional Artwork
• Mike S. Miller's art is stunningly visual, complementing the narrative with fluid and detailed illustrations.
• The action sequences are highly energetic and the world of Atlantis richly drawn.
5. Complexity and Depth
• The multi-layered plot, although complicated, is worthwhile to read for people who like delving into elaborate plots.
• The presence of mystery, political intrigue, and emotional conflict adds layers to the story.
Strengths
• Original Premise: The sci-fi, fantasy, and mythology mixture is a nice twist on the superhero and covert-ops story.
• Thought-Provoking Themes: Explores identity, destiny, and the thin line between heroism and villainy.
• Immersive World-Building: The detailed depiction of Atlantis and its remnants creates a vivid and engaging setting.
• Action-Packed Narrative: Keeps the pace brisk with international murders, missions, and battles.

Who Would Like This Book?
• Graphic novel enthusiasts who enjoy multiple-layered plots.
• Any reader who likes mythology-tinged science fiction and fantasy.
• Anyone seeking a new twist on Atlantis and superhero stories.

Black Tide: Awakening of the Key is ambitious with an engaging story that expertly weaves in ancient mythology with modern action and intrigue. Complex enough to keep some readers on their toes, it rewards in full those who are willing to delve into its denser world. Featuring a strong protagonist, beautiful artwork, and a high-stakes narrative, this graphic novel is a must-read for fans of immersive storytelling and dynamic visuals.

This is not a story of Atlantis but redemption, love, and the choices one makes for destiny. A highly recommended graphic novel for those seeking one that breaks the mold of the conventional superhero story.