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Of Swamp & Sea #2
Of Swamp & Sea, Volume Two
304 pages, Paperback
Published March 17, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
April 12, 2026
3.5 stars
June 28, 2026
After a fun and explosive side quest amongst some ruins with a troupe of traveling musicians, the road trip at last reaches its conclusion and a very worrying second season cliffhanger in Port Falrest.
A bunch of new characters are introduced this time around, and I'm curious to see how many will be coming back.
The next volume comes out next month, and I'm going to be asking my local library to add it to their collection ASAP.
FOR REFERENCE:
Collects material previously serialized as a scrolling webcomic on Webtoon as Episodes 22-46.
Contents: Chapter One. Reprieve -- Chapter Two. Tempo -- Chapter Three. Distance -- Chapter Four. Refinement -- Chapter Five. Clarity -- Thank You -- Concept Art -- Additional Explorations -- Monster Concepts -- Promo Art -- Prose Excerpts
A bunch of new characters are introduced this time around, and I'm curious to see how many will be coming back.
The next volume comes out next month, and I'm going to be asking my local library to add it to their collection ASAP.
FOR REFERENCE:
Collects material previously serialized as a scrolling webcomic on Webtoon as Episodes 22-46.
Contents: Chapter One. Reprieve -- Chapter Two. Tempo -- Chapter Three. Distance -- Chapter Four. Refinement -- Chapter Five. Clarity -- Thank You -- Concept Art -- Additional Explorations -- Monster Concepts -- Promo Art -- Prose Excerpts
October 22, 2025
I absolutely loved the second volume! It really feels like the story comes into its own here. We get to explore some amazing new locations, encounter cool spirits and monsters, and learn more about Jonah. And! Without giving anything away, I especially loved seeing Mercy take control of her life and start making choices for her future.
I’m super excited for the next volume and can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
Thank you to First Second Books / 23rd St. for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I’m super excited for the next volume and can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
Thank you to First Second Books / 23rd St. for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
June 24, 2026
*4.5 love love
August 2, 2026
I love the art and the characters. It's a simple story but it sucks you in.
October 8, 2025
I received a copy from 23rd St. through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
After Mercy Gray Harding accidentally got possessed by the mist wolf that killed her father, things have gotten crazy. She has to leave home and never come back, and now that she has feelings for Jonah, she’s not entirely sure going back is something she wants to do. Together, they’re on a mission to get the wolf mist’s spirit out of her, but what if Mercy isn’t entirely sure that’s what she wants anymore? If only Jonah would stop insisting to lead a lonely life until the mystery behind his supernatural eye catches up to him…
I was so excited to start the second volume of this series. We’re back to following Mercy and her monster hunting friend, Jonah. This time around, we got some solid backstory on Jonah, which I was super interested in. Plus, it’s clear the two of them have feelings for each other, but Jonah is the stubborn party here. Though, I guess I don’t blame him once we learn about The Visitor and how he’s connected to it.
That said, we got to meet a new cast of characters and slowly set up the next volume in the process. I really enjoyed the group of traveling musicians they met. While I doubt we’ll see them again, it’ll be interesting to see if they pop up again, especially after the way things turned out. I also loved meeting Jonah’s old friend and getting confirmation on something I suspected might happen when I read the first volume.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and seeing the character growth that occurred. The artwork was stunning as always, and I really enjoyed the concept art at the end. I’m really enjoying this series, and now that it’s really picking up speed, I’m even more excited for the next volume than I predicted I’d be!
After Mercy Gray Harding accidentally got possessed by the mist wolf that killed her father, things have gotten crazy. She has to leave home and never come back, and now that she has feelings for Jonah, she’s not entirely sure going back is something she wants to do. Together, they’re on a mission to get the wolf mist’s spirit out of her, but what if Mercy isn’t entirely sure that’s what she wants anymore? If only Jonah would stop insisting to lead a lonely life until the mystery behind his supernatural eye catches up to him…
I was so excited to start the second volume of this series. We’re back to following Mercy and her monster hunting friend, Jonah. This time around, we got some solid backstory on Jonah, which I was super interested in. Plus, it’s clear the two of them have feelings for each other, but Jonah is the stubborn party here. Though, I guess I don’t blame him once we learn about The Visitor and how he’s connected to it.
That said, we got to meet a new cast of characters and slowly set up the next volume in the process. I really enjoyed the group of traveling musicians they met. While I doubt we’ll see them again, it’ll be interesting to see if they pop up again, especially after the way things turned out. I also loved meeting Jonah’s old friend and getting confirmation on something I suspected might happen when I read the first volume.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and seeing the character growth that occurred. The artwork was stunning as always, and I really enjoyed the concept art at the end. I’m really enjoying this series, and now that it’s really picking up speed, I’m even more excited for the next volume than I predicted I’d be!
December 1, 2025
I would first like to thank the publisher, the artists, and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved this as a follow-up to the first volume. In my review of the first book, I was very excited about the plotline as well as the light and color based art style and I can say that those particular things continued to stick out to me in this volume but there was even more that made me love this volume.
First of all, HOW CAN YOU LEAVE ME HANGING LIKE THAT?! I need the next volume now. What happens next!
I also just particularly love the side characters in this volume. The first volume was really a time for us to get to know the two main characters (Mercy and Jonah) and this one was really to get some more character set up and world building. There was a lot of continued development for Mercy and Jonah, but I also fell in love with some of the others that they met (wish I had more about Briar and Augustus – they were so cute!) and am intrigued by a new character introduced right at the end of this volume. The spicy rating was a level 1.
Overall, I would rate this a 5 out of 5 stars and I can’t wait for the third volume’s release.
I absolutely loved this as a follow-up to the first volume. In my review of the first book, I was very excited about the plotline as well as the light and color based art style and I can say that those particular things continued to stick out to me in this volume but there was even more that made me love this volume.
First of all, HOW CAN YOU LEAVE ME HANGING LIKE THAT?! I need the next volume now. What happens next!
I also just particularly love the side characters in this volume. The first volume was really a time for us to get to know the two main characters (Mercy and Jonah) and this one was really to get some more character set up and world building. There was a lot of continued development for Mercy and Jonah, but I also fell in love with some of the others that they met (wish I had more about Briar and Augustus – they were so cute!) and am intrigued by a new character introduced right at the end of this volume. The spicy rating was a level 1.
Overall, I would rate this a 5 out of 5 stars and I can’t wait for the third volume’s release.
March 17, 2026
4.5 stars
I loved getting Jonah's backstory and learning more about why he's the way he is. Mercy on the otherhand is learning more about herself and what she wants going forward. Their interactions are only getting better!
We have some new characters thrown into the mix, and it was (mostly) a cute addition, with 1 person being sus AF. I would have loved more info on Briar, but I can see why that wasn't really needed.
I can't wait for the rest of the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
I loved getting Jonah's backstory and learning more about why he's the way he is. Mercy on the otherhand is learning more about herself and what she wants going forward. Their interactions are only getting better!
We have some new characters thrown into the mix, and it was (mostly) a cute addition, with 1 person being sus AF. I would have loved more info on Briar, but I can see why that wasn't really needed.
I can't wait for the rest of the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
November 12, 2025
Okay now this volume was exactly what I was looking for when I started the series.
Of Swamp and Sea has the vibes of Supernatural with a dash of Sinners and in this volume, a bit of The Greatest Showman. 🤯 I know! It was so action packed and exciting, that it brought a new life to my want to continue it.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC.
Of Swamp and Sea has the vibes of Supernatural with a dash of Sinners and in this volume, a bit of The Greatest Showman. 🤯 I know! It was so action packed and exciting, that it brought a new life to my want to continue it.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC.
June 10, 2026
O segundo volume é bem mais eletrizante que o primeiro, apresentando perigos reais que perseguem nossos protagonistas. Gostei muito de conhecer a Honey, ela é uma personagem cheia de vida e sem julgamentos. Espero que apareça novamente em algum momento da história.
De modo geral, foi uma leitura mais tensa que a anterior, mas que ainda reserva momentos leves e bonitos.
De modo geral, foi uma leitura mais tensa que a anterior, mas que ainda reserva momentos leves e bonitos.
April 13, 2026
Loving this series and can’t wait to see how they come back together in the next one! Enjoying the wolf 🐺 kick I seem to be on.
June 16, 2026
Noooooooo i need volume three NOW PLS
July 1, 2026
I loved this one. It was amazing. I need the next volume right now. I can't wait to see what happens. She is amazing and I need more!
May 1, 2026
I just want the to be in love already!! They are perfect together.
June 16, 2026
I don't think this is a bad series by any means. It might work better as a weekly comic, but the whole story feels kind of rushed. It's only volume 2 and the biggest issue (I thought) has already been solved. Something that I figured would take most of the series.
November 14, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and 23rd St for the ARC!
I enjoyed this book! I felt like learning more about Jonah’s backstory and what was happening with Mercy was such an interesting intersection to see unfold.
I liked learning more about the world and the implications of what is good/evil. This was such a delight! I loved the art and side characters too!
I think my one gripe is Jonah can too broody sometimes. I felt there was a lot of repetition of “woe is me” from him, and it’s just,,,I was getting really annoyed with him. Mercy is my girl though!!
I enjoyed this book! I felt like learning more about Jonah’s backstory and what was happening with Mercy was such an interesting intersection to see unfold.
I liked learning more about the world and the implications of what is good/evil. This was such a delight! I loved the art and side characters too!
I think my one gripe is Jonah can too broody sometimes. I felt there was a lot of repetition of “woe is me” from him, and it’s just,,,I was getting really annoyed with him. Mercy is my girl though!!
October 6, 2025
In this second book in the series, we learn a little more about Jonah and his monster hunting days, and why he covers his one eye. We also learn more about the wolf monster inside here, that Jonah wants to make sure is removed, at any cost.
Along the way to getting to where the magical person who can remove the spirit of the wolf monster, they meet a traveling group of musicians, where they get to relax a little. But only a little.
Not wanting to spoil anything, it is nice to see the pair kiss, and it is also nice to see them laugh. Especially with such evil following Jonah, and Mercy torn about if she should fall in love with him, nor not.
The illustrations are wonderful, and full of life. So much movement, and use of space, and viewpoint.
There will be, of course, a volume 3. So, though this one ends, we see the setup for the next volume. I very much enjoyed the world building, and am quite happy to continue to find out more about this couple, or non-couple, as the case may be. There appears to be a lot more than we know of going on, which is fine.
Thanks to Netgalley and First Second Books for making this book available for an honest review. This book is coming out the 17th of March 2026. The first volume is already out.
Along the way to getting to where the magical person who can remove the spirit of the wolf monster, they meet a traveling group of musicians, where they get to relax a little. But only a little.
Not wanting to spoil anything, it is nice to see the pair kiss, and it is also nice to see them laugh. Especially with such evil following Jonah, and Mercy torn about if she should fall in love with him, nor not.
The illustrations are wonderful, and full of life. So much movement, and use of space, and viewpoint.
There will be, of course, a volume 3. So, though this one ends, we see the setup for the next volume. I very much enjoyed the world building, and am quite happy to continue to find out more about this couple, or non-couple, as the case may be. There appears to be a lot more than we know of going on, which is fine.
Thanks to Netgalley and First Second Books for making this book available for an honest review. This book is coming out the 17th of March 2026. The first volume is already out.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
English:
This story keeps giving me more and more reasons to keep reading. Both the first book and this one end on an open ending, clearly designed to build anticipation for what’s coming next.
The characters continue to be well written, and as the story progresses, they become more developed, which I really love. I especially liked that in this volume we get to explore more of Jonah’s backstory—a character who was very mysterious in the first volume.
While he remains mysterious, we’re given glimpses of his past that help us better understand why he is the way he is.
The truth about Mercy is definitely a turning point in the story, and I need to know what’s going to happen with that in the next volume.
It’s a light, fast-paced read that makes it hard to stop once you start. I think I finished it in about 30 minutes because I was so hooked.
I’m still in awe of the artwork in this graphic novel. The illustrations are beautiful and colorful, and I would absolutely love to own it in physical format someday so I can fully appreciate the art in all its glory.
Español:
Está historia solo sigue generando más y más ganas de seguir leyendo. Tanto el primer libro como este dejan un final abierto para generar expectativas sobre el siguiente.
Los personajes siguen estando bien escritos, a medida que avanza la historia van desarrollándose más y eso me encanta. Me gustó que en este tomo podamos conocer un poco más del trasfondo de Jonah, personaje que en el primer volumen era muy misterioso.
Si bien sigue siendo misterioso, tenemos un poco más de su pasado y ahora podemos ir entendiendo un poco mejor porque es como es.
La verdad sobre Mercy es algo que sin duda hace un quiebre en la historia y necesito saber que va a pasar con eso en el siguiente tomo.
Es una lectura ligera que hace que no quiera parar de leer hasta terminarla, creo que la termine en 30 minutos de lo enganchada que me tenía.
Sigo admirando el arte que traen los dibujos de la novela gráfica, son hermosos, coloridos y sin duda me encantaría poder tenerlos en algún momento en físico para poder admirarlos en todo su esplendor.
This story keeps giving me more and more reasons to keep reading. Both the first book and this one end on an open ending, clearly designed to build anticipation for what’s coming next.
The characters continue to be well written, and as the story progresses, they become more developed, which I really love. I especially liked that in this volume we get to explore more of Jonah’s backstory—a character who was very mysterious in the first volume.
While he remains mysterious, we’re given glimpses of his past that help us better understand why he is the way he is.
The truth about Mercy is definitely a turning point in the story, and I need to know what’s going to happen with that in the next volume.
It’s a light, fast-paced read that makes it hard to stop once you start. I think I finished it in about 30 minutes because I was so hooked.
I’m still in awe of the artwork in this graphic novel. The illustrations are beautiful and colorful, and I would absolutely love to own it in physical format someday so I can fully appreciate the art in all its glory.
Español:
Está historia solo sigue generando más y más ganas de seguir leyendo. Tanto el primer libro como este dejan un final abierto para generar expectativas sobre el siguiente.
Los personajes siguen estando bien escritos, a medida que avanza la historia van desarrollándose más y eso me encanta. Me gustó que en este tomo podamos conocer un poco más del trasfondo de Jonah, personaje que en el primer volumen era muy misterioso.
Si bien sigue siendo misterioso, tenemos un poco más de su pasado y ahora podemos ir entendiendo un poco mejor porque es como es.
La verdad sobre Mercy es algo que sin duda hace un quiebre en la historia y necesito saber que va a pasar con eso en el siguiente tomo.
Es una lectura ligera que hace que no quiera parar de leer hasta terminarla, creo que la termine en 30 minutos de lo enganchada que me tenía.
Sigo admirando el arte que traen los dibujos de la novela gráfica, son hermosos, coloridos y sin duda me encantaría poder tenerlos en algún momento en físico para poder admirarlos en todo su esplendor.
March 18, 2026
Vol. 2 starts off very shortly after 1 left us. There's no recap, so if you haven't read vol. 1, you'll need to.
Our story starts with something vol 1 didn't give us, and that's back story on our hero, Mr. Jonah, and how he came to wear a kerchief over one of his eyes all the time. (Long story short, he was tricked but trust me when I say you'll want the long story). Meanwhile our girl Mercy is trying to figure out what her life will look like after everything is sorted. She thinks she can just go back home, but Jonah assures her that's not going to be possible after what happened (in vol. 1). However the two of them are also feeling a closeness to each other, one that it seems Mercy is willing to pursue, but Jonah isn't.
During the Night Jonah is insistent that they move one quickly and they hitch a ride with a band of traveling musicians and exchange for helping them through a risky short cut. Naturally nothing goes as planned and Jonah and Mercy are once again on foot. When they finally reach their destination things once again do not go as planned, because when have they ever?
This volume is really about seeing our two main characters grow closer, while one continues to try to keep the other at arms length. It's also to really see Mercy become more secure and confident within herself and her abilities that she has obtained since vol. 1. She has a lot of choices she has to make and some very big ones at that. She no longer has a family and the person she is currently feeling the closest to is constantly trying to push her away for his own reasons, supposedly.
An observation I made during this vol that I can't believe I missed during the first one is that Jonah is very much Malcolm Reynolds coded, for my Firefly fans out there. Heck he even almost has the outfit and haircut. He's the hero for hire that is handsome and that the girl wants to fall for and who is, probably also falling for the girl, but in denial. Though in this case it's not the fancy lady and more like a mash-up of Zoë and Kaylee. Of course all of it's on a planet and not in space, but he is still fighting monsters.
Like the first one the art continues to just be beautiful. The wolf art is haunting, and some of the scenes with the musicians and just so visually funny they don't even need words. The words are just bonus. The facial expressions are great. At the end of this volume we get a bit of bonus art which was lovely, and is always so fun to see.
Our story starts with something vol 1 didn't give us, and that's back story on our hero, Mr. Jonah, and how he came to wear a kerchief over one of his eyes all the time. (Long story short, he was tricked but trust me when I say you'll want the long story). Meanwhile our girl Mercy is trying to figure out what her life will look like after everything is sorted. She thinks she can just go back home, but Jonah assures her that's not going to be possible after what happened (in vol. 1). However the two of them are also feeling a closeness to each other, one that it seems Mercy is willing to pursue, but Jonah isn't.
During the Night Jonah is insistent that they move one quickly and they hitch a ride with a band of traveling musicians and exchange for helping them through a risky short cut. Naturally nothing goes as planned and Jonah and Mercy are once again on foot. When they finally reach their destination things once again do not go as planned, because when have they ever?
This volume is really about seeing our two main characters grow closer, while one continues to try to keep the other at arms length. It's also to really see Mercy become more secure and confident within herself and her abilities that she has obtained since vol. 1. She has a lot of choices she has to make and some very big ones at that. She no longer has a family and the person she is currently feeling the closest to is constantly trying to push her away for his own reasons, supposedly.
An observation I made during this vol that I can't believe I missed during the first one is that Jonah is very much Malcolm Reynolds coded, for my Firefly fans out there. Heck he even almost has the outfit and haircut. He's the hero for hire that is handsome and that the girl wants to fall for and who is, probably also falling for the girl, but in denial. Though in this case it's not the fancy lady and more like a mash-up of Zoë and Kaylee. Of course all of it's on a planet and not in space, but he is still fighting monsters.
Like the first one the art continues to just be beautiful. The wolf art is haunting, and some of the scenes with the musicians and just so visually funny they don't even need words. The words are just bonus. The facial expressions are great. At the end of this volume we get a bit of bonus art which was lovely, and is always so fun to see.
October 16, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and 23rd St. for an advanced reader copy Of Swamp & Sea, Volume 2.
For the sake of transparency, before I received this copy, I had never read or heard of the Webtoon Of Swamp & Sea, but the summary sounded interesting and I liked the art style, so I requested copies of Volumes 1 & 2 via NetGalley. I only received a copy of volume 2, so that left me with a bit of conundrum. I wanted to give volume 2 as much of a fair shake as I could, so I looked up the series on Webtoon and read the first few chapters available for free on the site.
I'm glad I did. While the storylines in volume 2 are easy to follow, having just that extra bit of knowledge of how the whole series started really helps give a better weight and understanding to Mercy's plight.
Additionally, volume 2 is where we get to learn more Jonah's past and his connection to a creature called The Final Visitor. Through this knowledge we see that Jonah's desire to help Mercy doesn't just stem from guilt, but from a subconscious desire to free himself from his own monster, which he has projected onto Mercy. It's makes for an interesting dynamic, and a great set up for Jonah to embrace the more monstrous parts of himself.
Admittedly, that is where I am assuming the story is going, because it seems like Mercy and Jonah are set up to be parallels and/or foils to each other. That being said, I could be 100% wrong.
Whatever direction the story goes, I think it will be fun. There's a lot of action, adventure, and heart packed into every chapter, making this a delightful read.
For the sake of transparency, before I received this copy, I had never read or heard of the Webtoon Of Swamp & Sea, but the summary sounded interesting and I liked the art style, so I requested copies of Volumes 1 & 2 via NetGalley. I only received a copy of volume 2, so that left me with a bit of conundrum. I wanted to give volume 2 as much of a fair shake as I could, so I looked up the series on Webtoon and read the first few chapters available for free on the site.
I'm glad I did. While the storylines in volume 2 are easy to follow, having just that extra bit of knowledge of how the whole series started really helps give a better weight and understanding to Mercy's plight.
Additionally, volume 2 is where we get to learn more Jonah's past and his connection to a creature called The Final Visitor. Through this knowledge we see that Jonah's desire to help Mercy doesn't just stem from guilt, but from a subconscious desire to free himself from his own monster, which he has projected onto Mercy. It's makes for an interesting dynamic, and a great set up for Jonah to embrace the more monstrous parts of himself.
Admittedly, that is where I am assuming the story is going, because it seems like Mercy and Jonah are set up to be parallels and/or foils to each other. That being said, I could be 100% wrong.
Whatever direction the story goes, I think it will be fun. There's a lot of action, adventure, and heart packed into every chapter, making this a delightful read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
After loving the first installment, I was excited to dive back into the world of Of Swamp & Sea. Volume 2 continues Mercy and Jonah’s story, slowly peeling back more layers of who they are and how they came to be the people we met in the first book.
This volume focuses more on character development than major plot movement. We learn more about Jonah’s past and how he became the fearless hunter we see now, which adds depth to his character and helps explain some of his guarded nature. At the same time, Mercy and Jonah grow closer as they begin to recognize something they share—both of them are outsiders in a world that treats them differently.
Their dynamic continues to be one of the most compelling parts of the story. Mercy seems to view their shared outsider status as a sign that they belong together, while Jonah struggles with the idea, wanting Mercy to have a normal life without being tied to him.
Once again, the artwork is absolutely beautiful. The illustrations bring so much atmosphere and emotion to the story, and many moments feel even more powerful because of what’s conveyed visually rather than through dialogue.
While this volume felt a bit like a bridge between larger events in the story, it still left me intrigued—especially with the introduction of a mysterious new character at the end. I already have Volume 3 ready to go, and it took serious restraint not to jump straight into it the moment I finished.
If you enjoy graphic novels with rich artwork, slow-building character dynamics, and fantasy elements, this series is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to Mia Jay & Laurel Boulton, First Second Books, and NetGalley for the ARC!
This volume focuses more on character development than major plot movement. We learn more about Jonah’s past and how he became the fearless hunter we see now, which adds depth to his character and helps explain some of his guarded nature. At the same time, Mercy and Jonah grow closer as they begin to recognize something they share—both of them are outsiders in a world that treats them differently.
Their dynamic continues to be one of the most compelling parts of the story. Mercy seems to view their shared outsider status as a sign that they belong together, while Jonah struggles with the idea, wanting Mercy to have a normal life without being tied to him.
Once again, the artwork is absolutely beautiful. The illustrations bring so much atmosphere and emotion to the story, and many moments feel even more powerful because of what’s conveyed visually rather than through dialogue.
While this volume felt a bit like a bridge between larger events in the story, it still left me intrigued—especially with the introduction of a mysterious new character at the end. I already have Volume 3 ready to go, and it took serious restraint not to jump straight into it the moment I finished.
If you enjoy graphic novels with rich artwork, slow-building character dynamics, and fantasy elements, this series is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to Mia Jay & Laurel Boulton, First Second Books, and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Of Swamp and Sea, Vol. 2 continues Mercy and Jonah’s journey with higher stakes and deepening emotions. Mercy is still grappling with her wolfish possession, but this volume shines a light on the monster Jonah carries within as well. His past begins to take shape as we learn more about the first encounter with the creature called the Final Visitor and the devastating power he now shares with it—a power that draws danger closer each time it’s used. With the Final Visitor on Jonah’s trail and time running out to free Mercy, their journey to Port Falrest feels increasingly urgent. New threats are introduced, and the tension steadily builds, making the story hard to put down. The romance remains a slow burn, but it’s gradually heating up through quiet moments, meaningful conversations, and the growing challenges they face together.
The artwork continues to be stunning throughout, with some of the most striking moments appearing when the wolf spirit takes over the page—eerie, powerful, and absolutely beautiful.
Overall, Of Swamp and Sea, Vol. 2 is a strong continuation that deepens the world, strengthens the characters, and sets up exciting possibilities for what’s ahead. I cannot wait for Volume 3 and highly recommend this series to fans of atmospheric fantasy, slow-burn romance, and gorgeous illustrations.
Be warned: this volume ends on a cliffhanger that left me desperate for more.
A special thanks to First Second Books, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader’s Copy for review. My reviews always reflect my honest thoughts and feelings.
4.5 stars rounded up
The artwork continues to be stunning throughout, with some of the most striking moments appearing when the wolf spirit takes over the page—eerie, powerful, and absolutely beautiful.
Overall, Of Swamp and Sea, Vol. 2 is a strong continuation that deepens the world, strengthens the characters, and sets up exciting possibilities for what’s ahead. I cannot wait for Volume 3 and highly recommend this series to fans of atmospheric fantasy, slow-burn romance, and gorgeous illustrations.
Be warned: this volume ends on a cliffhanger that left me desperate for more.
A special thanks to First Second Books, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader’s Copy for review. My reviews always reflect my honest thoughts and feelings.
4.5 stars rounded up
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2025
A long time ago. Back when I was younger and didn't know better...
...than to take people at their word.
It's official, I am just straight obsessed with Mia Jay Boulton's Of Swamp & Sea. The characters are phenomenal, the world is fascinating, the story is absolutely brilliant. Honestly, I don't think I could say a bad thing about this series no matter how hard I tried to find one. There's an absolute brilliance to how expertly Boulton has pulled me in and engineered such a deep emotional investment to what happens to all of these characters.
Beautiful can still be deadly.
It honestly sort of drives me insane, every time I reach the end of one of the volumes, to not have more to continue reading immediately. And yet the pacing of the story is excellent, each adventure finding a fitting place within the parameters of the story. These are certainly books that I can't wait to add to my shelf.
You're smart. Capable. That life you might have led... You deserve better. Small towns. Trust me, you don't need 'em.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, authors Mia Jay Boulton and Laurel Boulton, and publishers First Second Books and 23rd St. for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Mercy and Jonah continue their journey to free Mercy of the wolf spirit that is inhabiting her body. We learn some of Jonah’s history, meet new people and see new monsters and magics along the way.
The artwork is still gorgeous and there is still a lot of introspective text for various characters. At the end, there is a prose paragraph paired with one of the panels and I thought the prose was beautiful and added so much feeling. I almost want every panel to have that which would make it more of a hybridization, but the story flows and is absolutely understandable without it. I did enjoy this volume more than the first, and that may be because I already know the characters and the world.
There is a lot more plot and character development since they don’t need as much character introduction and world building. Mercy definitely grew on me, especially as she began to come into her own. And I want to knock some sense into Jonah, but that’s normal for this point in a story. I look forward to reading future volumes and seeing their journey continue and relationship progress.
Mercy and Jonah continue their journey to free Mercy of the wolf spirit that is inhabiting her body. We learn some of Jonah’s history, meet new people and see new monsters and magics along the way.
The artwork is still gorgeous and there is still a lot of introspective text for various characters. At the end, there is a prose paragraph paired with one of the panels and I thought the prose was beautiful and added so much feeling. I almost want every panel to have that which would make it more of a hybridization, but the story flows and is absolutely understandable without it. I did enjoy this volume more than the first, and that may be because I already know the characters and the world.
There is a lot more plot and character development since they don’t need as much character introduction and world building. Mercy definitely grew on me, especially as she began to come into her own. And I want to knock some sense into Jonah, but that’s normal for this point in a story. I look forward to reading future volumes and seeing their journey continue and relationship progress.
October 10, 2025
We start this volume right where the first ended with a flawless transition. Mercy and Jonah continue along their journey to rid Mercy of the wolf.
We get a bit more of a back story about Jonah in the beginning. This back story will bring us closer to understanding him a bit better and recognizing one of his big motivations to rid Mercy of the wolf. We learn that he has a devastating and destructive power, a power that he has from "The final Visitor". While Jonah was tricked into a job that almost cost him his life, he just barely escaped and is now cursed with this power.
The Final Visitor is getting closer to Jonah, and every time he uses the power, he draws him even closer. After he used the Final Visitors power to save himself and Mercy, he knows they need to get to Port Fairest, and soon. As they walk through the woods, they come across a group of traveling musicians and are lucky to catch a ride.
While Mercy and Jonah travel with their new musical friends, Mercy admits to herself and her new friends that she has feelings for Jonah. This realization that one day Jonah will leave, and she will be alone, makes her not want to give up her wolf. Mercy has lost so much, and not only does she not want to be alone, but she also wants to feel safe.
Once they get to the port, will she be able to give up both her wolf and Jonah? That's the question she faces.
Volume two will draw you in just as Volume one did. The art remains beautiful and original. The new characters all are unique and fit into the story without distracting from the main plot line. I enjoyed how they both interact with the musical group members, Mercy is easier to trust and open up, where Jonah stays on alert and keeps mostly to himself. The cliff hanger at the end made me wish I could have the next volume right away. I really hope Mercy is up for this next part of her story, and I hope she doesn't have to go into it alone. Shes stronger and braver than she thinks, and I think she is about to truly find the inner strength she has.
Thank you NetGalley and First Second Books | 23rd St. for the Digital ARC.
We get a bit more of a back story about Jonah in the beginning. This back story will bring us closer to understanding him a bit better and recognizing one of his big motivations to rid Mercy of the wolf. We learn that he has a devastating and destructive power, a power that he has from "The final Visitor". While Jonah was tricked into a job that almost cost him his life, he just barely escaped and is now cursed with this power.
The Final Visitor is getting closer to Jonah, and every time he uses the power, he draws him even closer. After he used the Final Visitors power to save himself and Mercy, he knows they need to get to Port Fairest, and soon. As they walk through the woods, they come across a group of traveling musicians and are lucky to catch a ride.
While Mercy and Jonah travel with their new musical friends, Mercy admits to herself and her new friends that she has feelings for Jonah. This realization that one day Jonah will leave, and she will be alone, makes her not want to give up her wolf. Mercy has lost so much, and not only does she not want to be alone, but she also wants to feel safe.
Once they get to the port, will she be able to give up both her wolf and Jonah? That's the question she faces.
Volume two will draw you in just as Volume one did. The art remains beautiful and original. The new characters all are unique and fit into the story without distracting from the main plot line. I enjoyed how they both interact with the musical group members, Mercy is easier to trust and open up, where Jonah stays on alert and keeps mostly to himself. The cliff hanger at the end made me wish I could have the next volume right away. I really hope Mercy is up for this next part of her story, and I hope she doesn't have to go into it alone. Shes stronger and braver than she thinks, and I think she is about to truly find the inner strength she has.
Thank you NetGalley and First Second Books | 23rd St. for the Digital ARC.
October 10, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and 23rd st publishing for the eARC!!!
I'm so excited i got this arc to be able to continue reading the series!!!
The second installment Of Swamp and Sea picks right where we left off in volume 1
I really loved getting Jonah's backstory as it adds to his character and how he has changed over the years as he gains more experience being a monster hunter. Mercy's character development on how to handle the wolf going from scared to a confident queen was excellent to see. I loved all the side character but wish we got more with musicians but I have a feeling they might make a return in a future volume. I loved Snarl's character design and laughed out loud when Mercy realized she was inbetween two stunning people, same girl same. The monsters were so cool to see and love that we get descriptions for them in the bts portion of the arc. Seeing the concept art and character designs at the end of each chapter is so fun to see and the full graphic novel is filled with even more beautiful artwork like the first volume. Can not wait to buy this book as a trophy for my shelves!
I'm so excited i got this arc to be able to continue reading the series!!!
The second installment Of Swamp and Sea picks right where we left off in volume 1
I really loved getting Jonah's backstory as it adds to his character and how he has changed over the years as he gains more experience being a monster hunter. Mercy's character development on how to handle the wolf going from scared to a confident queen was excellent to see. I loved all the side character but wish we got more with musicians but I have a feeling they might make a return in a future volume. I loved Snarl's character design and laughed out loud when Mercy realized she was inbetween two stunning people, same girl same. The monsters were so cool to see and love that we get descriptions for them in the bts portion of the arc. Seeing the concept art and character designs at the end of each chapter is so fun to see and the full graphic novel is filled with even more beautiful artwork like the first volume. Can not wait to buy this book as a trophy for my shelves!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced copy!
I have been eagerly awaiting the sequel to Of Swamp & Sea for a little while now so I’m so thankful to read an advance copy! This was a fun sequel that had all the magical monster madness of the first! We delve deeper into Jonah’s past which was SO interesting! (hope we continue to learn more) and grow Mercy and Jonah’s relationship!
This sequel did feel a bit rushed throughout however. We meet a new band of characters but their purpose in the story was so short that it had me questioning why they were even involved! And when one of the new characters stays behind, I was a bit confused! Where did that come from?
I do also feel like we need more from Mercy and Jonah’s relationship. They advanced it in this story, however I wanted more! Mercy is such an innocent FMC that we never get that slow burn, pining feeling between the two before disaster strikes!
But the overarching monster fighting storyline holds solid! I’m intrigued to learn more about monsters and the world of seedy monster hunters, so I will continue into another volume!
I have been eagerly awaiting the sequel to Of Swamp & Sea for a little while now so I’m so thankful to read an advance copy! This was a fun sequel that had all the magical monster madness of the first! We delve deeper into Jonah’s past which was SO interesting! (hope we continue to learn more) and grow Mercy and Jonah’s relationship!
This sequel did feel a bit rushed throughout however. We meet a new band of characters but their purpose in the story was so short that it had me questioning why they were even involved! And when one of the new characters stays behind, I was a bit confused! Where did that come from?
I do also feel like we need more from Mercy and Jonah’s relationship. They advanced it in this story, however I wanted more! Mercy is such an innocent FMC that we never get that slow burn, pining feeling between the two before disaster strikes!
But the overarching monster fighting storyline holds solid! I’m intrigued to learn more about monsters and the world of seedy monster hunters, so I will continue into another volume!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2026
Mercy and Jonah are at an inn on a rainy night when she learns how Jonah lost his eye...and it's quite a tale...a super creepy tale. After explaining what occured (and an unexpected shared kiss), Jonah wakes her in the middle of the night insisting they depart. Something awful is coming their way and no amount of insisting it was a dream from Mercy can convince him.
Fortunately, they encounter a traveling band of musicians with a wagon and believe it will help them pick up the pace. But before they can get to the mysterious person they are seeking who can help Mercy out with her wolf removal, they have to navigate an abandoned city in the mountains and nothing good is in an abandoned city...
---
I liked this one! The story picks up and much more is at stake once you learn Jonah's backstory. This volume ends on something of a cliff hanger!
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Content Notes:
Swearing/profanity: 4 shits, 1 bastard, 1 F word, 2 hells, 1 damn
Sex/sexual references: 1 kiss
Violence: Skin being shown ripped off to expose bone. Yikes!
Religious content: Exorcism shown
LGBTQIA+ rep? Yes, minor characters are cued as gay
Fortunately, they encounter a traveling band of musicians with a wagon and believe it will help them pick up the pace. But before they can get to the mysterious person they are seeking who can help Mercy out with her wolf removal, they have to navigate an abandoned city in the mountains and nothing good is in an abandoned city...
---
I liked this one! The story picks up and much more is at stake once you learn Jonah's backstory. This volume ends on something of a cliff hanger!
---
Content Notes:
Swearing/profanity: 4 shits, 1 bastard, 1 F word, 2 hells, 1 damn
Sex/sexual references: 1 kiss
Violence: Skin being shown ripped off to expose bone. Yikes!
Religious content: Exorcism shown
LGBTQIA+ rep? Yes, minor characters are cued as gay
October 5, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Favorite quote(s):
“Just try to keep calm. I’ll find you. I promise.”
Review:
I thought this was a great next instalment in the story. The art was just as great as the first volume, and I loved the details. Mercy and Jonah were great, and I loved their teamwork and bonding. I loved meeting new characters and going to new places and seeing how Mercy reacted to it all. Learning Jonah’s story and what happened to him was heartbreaking, but it does explain why he is how he is and his struggles. I loved that it showed Mercy changing with everything regarding the wolf and how it affected her. It did seem to be a bit slower pace than the first one but it was nice. I cannot wait for more to see what happens next with Mercy and Jonah and their relationship, as well as with the wolf and the Visitor that Jonah must deal with, and that thing is creepy. That ending has me worried for Mercy and what will happen with her being hunted. Overall, I enjoyed this and am excited for more.
Favorite quote(s):
“Just try to keep calm. I’ll find you. I promise.”
Review:
I thought this was a great next instalment in the story. The art was just as great as the first volume, and I loved the details. Mercy and Jonah were great, and I loved their teamwork and bonding. I loved meeting new characters and going to new places and seeing how Mercy reacted to it all. Learning Jonah’s story and what happened to him was heartbreaking, but it does explain why he is how he is and his struggles. I loved that it showed Mercy changing with everything regarding the wolf and how it affected her. It did seem to be a bit slower pace than the first one but it was nice. I cannot wait for more to see what happens next with Mercy and Jonah and their relationship, as well as with the wolf and the Visitor that Jonah must deal with, and that thing is creepy. That ending has me worried for Mercy and what will happen with her being hunted. Overall, I enjoyed this and am excited for more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I've been reading this comic on Webtoon for a little while, but was so excited to get the eARC of the full Volume 2 graphic novel version. This 2nd volume finishes out the back half of Season 1 on Webtoon.
I really loved this installment of the story from the Boultons. The chemistry between Jonah and Mercy is great, and I like how their friendship (and more) develops throughout. I also enjoyed the added characters from the traveling band, the city of ruins, and Cassady Snarl. The names of the characters are fantastic.
The artwork in this section of the story is also stunning. I really like how the Boultons illustrate light in their work. As a reader, you totally buy that something is glowing or lit by a fire. And the way the wolf is drawn around Mercy is always gorgeous. I was very impressed by the layout changes from Webtoon to print as well.
I also appreciated the bonus artwork and prose in the back of the book. I'm really looking forward to more installments to come out.
Thank you to NetGalley and First Second Books for access to this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I really loved this installment of the story from the Boultons. The chemistry between Jonah and Mercy is great, and I like how their friendship (and more) develops throughout. I also enjoyed the added characters from the traveling band, the city of ruins, and Cassady Snarl. The names of the characters are fantastic.
The artwork in this section of the story is also stunning. I really like how the Boultons illustrate light in their work. As a reader, you totally buy that something is glowing or lit by a fire. And the way the wolf is drawn around Mercy is always gorgeous. I was very impressed by the layout changes from Webtoon to print as well.
I also appreciated the bonus artwork and prose in the back of the book. I'm really looking forward to more installments to come out.
Thank you to NetGalley and First Second Books for access to this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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