CBR Bingo Category: White Whale
Series: Saga. I read (and reviewed) Vol. 1 in 2018.
What I remembered about this series prior to reading this book: A lot. Marko and Alana are from a planet and a moon which are at war. They fall in love, have Hazel, become fugitives thanks to their forbidden romance, and a million intergalactic adventures and eccentric characters follow.
Why I stopped reading the series: Over the past few years I read Vols. 1-8 fairly quickly, but I’ve had Vol. 9 sitting in my den waiting for a long, long, time–well over a year at this point. I’d heard that it was sad, and that there was no sign of more issues coming anytime soon, so I waited. Then I saw that more issues are expected in 2022, and I decided Vol. 9 was perfect for the White Whale square.
The plot: Considering this is part 9 in a series, there’s not a lot I can get into without massive spoilers. Marko and Alana continue to evade the authorities who would kill them and Hazel if they are discovered. There’s the usual assortment of exciting adventures. But–this is indeed really, really sad. Too sad for me to accept it. I cannot accept that ending.
The good: As always, the artwork is fantastic. I love Hazel. I mean, I love most of the characters. I’m very invested in this story.
The bad: The ending. It’s not bad in the sense that it’s written poorly or anything. It’s bad in the sense that the events are too bad to have occurred. If you’re wondering if Vol. 9 is as sad as everyone has told you, it is.
Did Saga Vol. 9 change my mind about the series?: Not really, I loved it before and I still love it. I’m just going to need a minute to get over what happened.
Will I keep reading the series: Duh.