It has been untold years since the
Giants-That-Were disappeared, leaving behind the animals forever changed by
their strange science. Now, granted the gifts of intelligence and
self-awareness, the valiant Hamster Aquatic Mercenaries struggle to keep their
horde alive in the dangerous new world.
In The Underfoot: The Mighty
Deep, H.A.M. has been hired to save their badger allies from dangerous
flooding, but first they'll need new recruits. Only the best of the best can
join the ranks of H.A.M., and the colony's most ambitious young hamster pups
compete for their chance at glory and prestige. Those who succeed, however, soon
discover that life outside their burrow is not the grand adventure they
imagined, but instead find a world of deadly threats and conflicting stories
about their species' origins.
Combining heroic battles, dark
mysteries, and heartfelt friendships, The Underfoot: The Mighty Deep is
the beginning of an epic sci-fi trilogy chronicling the animal kingdoms left to
rise and fall in the absence of the Giants-That-Were. When the hamsters learn
the truth about their past, will they find the strength to overcome the forces
aligning against them, or will their tiny horde be wiped from the
earth?
The Mighty Deep is the first volume in a graphic novel series by Ben Fisher, Emily Whitten, and Michelle Nguyen. Released 23rd April 2019 by Oni Press, it's 160 pages and available in paperback and ebook/comiXology formats.
This is a very well plotted, character driven epic quest adventure with beautifully rendered illustrations. The setting is fantasy post-apocalypse Earth and the characters are anthropomorphic animals. Ostensibly aimed at middle grade readers, I found the charming and engaging story worked well for all ages. I enjoyed it a lot.
Four stars. It would make a great selection for comics readers, fans of fantasy and anthropomorphic animal stories. It's a quick and enjoyable read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
