Activism and empowerment seem a part of her DNA, but what was most influential in crafting your version of the character?

I was so lucky to work with Stephen Byrne, who also works with Brian Michael Bendis on “Wonder Twins.” DC Ink launches with your tale of a young Mera, whose backstory, even to comics fans, may not be well known. Graphic novels are much more akin to television or film, only you have an artist who is your partner in bringing the story to life.

You have to let the dialogue and the actors and set decorators and cinematographers speak for you without all that extra exposition and internal monologues. But when you are writing for television or film, you are supposed to show and not tell. You have to paint every thought and action and setting.

Do those defining YA story qualities translate easily as graphic novels?Ībsolutely! When you are writing a book, you have to show and tell. Will Arthur Curry be the king at Mera's side, or will he die under her blade as she attempts to free her people from persecution?Īn astonishing graphic novel that explores duty, love, heroism and freedom, all through the eyes of readers' favorite undersea royalty.įrom New York Times best-selling author Danielle Paige (Dorothy Must Die) and artist Stephen Byrne comes a Mera and Aquaman origin story that explores Mera's first steps on land, and her first steps as a hero or villain, forcing her to choose to follow her heart or her mission to kill.Graphic novels are (kind of) prose plus television, both of which you’ve written. But her mission gets sidetracked when Mera and Arthur unexpectedly fall in love. When the Xebellian military plots to overthrow Atlantis and break free of its oppressive regime, Mera seizes the opportunity to take control over her own destiny by assassinating Arthur Curry-the long-lost prince and heir to the kingdom of Atlantis. But Mera is destined to wear a different crown. Her father, his court and the entire kingdom are expecting her to marry and introduce a new king.

Princess Mera is teenage royalty and heir to the throne of Xebel, a penal colony ruled by the other no-so-lost land under the sea, Atlantis. Author(s): Danielle Paige Stephen Byrne (Illustrator)

Mera by Danielle Paige