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Black Tide #1
Black Tide: Awakening of the Key - Collects comic book issues 1 - 8
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.
224 pages, Paperback
First published December 30, 2004
About the author
Debbie Bishop
47 books6 followersDebbie Bishop is a multi-genre author, entertainment executive, and founder of Angelgate Entertainment and the By.Storytellers podcast platform. With nearly 30 years of experience spanning Hollywood production, creative direction, and franchise architecture, she brings a rare blend of industry depth and imaginative vision to her storytelling.
Her diverse literary catalog includes:
Pillywiggin Awakening: The complete two-book story arc (Releasing June 26).
War Eagles: Co-authored with legendary Robotech creator Carl Macek; inspired by an unrealized concept by Merian C. Cooper and written at the request of animation icon Ray Harryhausen.
YOU: What Is the Meaning of Life?: A practical manual on energy mechanics and abundance, teaching readers "easy real tricks" to delete internal blocks and reclaim joy.
The Fairies of Bladderwhack Pond: A beloved fantasy series illustrated by Andy Park.
Black Tide: Creator of the comic series.
A former model and actress turned executive producer, Debbie has founded five companies, including three independent entertainment distributors. Whether she is building a global franchise or teaching readers how to "claim" their power, her work is about resilience, self-discovery, friendship and courage to stand even when everything falls apart.
Her diverse literary catalog includes:
Pillywiggin Awakening: The complete two-book story arc (Releasing June 26).
War Eagles: Co-authored with legendary Robotech creator Carl Macek; inspired by an unrealized concept by Merian C. Cooper and written at the request of animation icon Ray Harryhausen.
YOU: What Is the Meaning of Life?: A practical manual on energy mechanics and abundance, teaching readers "easy real tricks" to delete internal blocks and reclaim joy.
The Fairies of Bladderwhack Pond: A beloved fantasy series illustrated by Andy Park.
Black Tide: Creator of the comic series.
A former model and actress turned executive producer, Debbie has founded five companies, including three independent entertainment distributors. Whether she is building a global franchise or teaching readers how to "claim" their power, her work is about resilience, self-discovery, friendship and courage to stand even when everything falls apart.
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
January 26, 2025
"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.
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.
Displaying 1 of 1 review