A review by blandrea_reads
Castle Swimmer: Volume 1 by Wendy Lian Martin

adventurous hopeful lighthearted relaxing slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

astle Swimmer” is like a soothing underwater lullaby—a graphic novel that cradles you in its gentle waves. The art, oh, the art! It’s a watercolor dream, capturing the ethereal beauty of an ocean realm. The soft hues and intricate details make me feel like I’m floating alongside the characters.

This webtoon has been my “happy place” comfort read for years —a comforting escape from reality. The underwater world, with its castles and merpeople, feels both familiar and otherworldly. And now, the news of a traditional publishing run? My heart flutters like a school of fish caught in a sunbeam.

The characters—Kappa and Siren—are more than ink and pixels; they’re my precious cinnamon rolls who’ve kept me company. Kappa, burdened by prophecy, tugs at my heartstrings. Who wants to be the chosen one, anyway? And Siren, the shark prince, carries scars—both seen and unseen. His struggle between duty and desire really resonates.

And let’s talk about representation. No neon signs here—just quiet acceptance. The growing romance between Prince Siren and another male character? It’s a delicate dance, like seaweed swaying in the current. No fuss, no fanfare—just love blooming beneath the waves.

So, as the tides shift and “Castle Swimmer” embarks on its traditional publishing voyage, I’ll be there, cheering from the shore. May it find new readers, like seashells washed ashore, each one holding a piece of this enchanting tale.