Book Review: The Axolotl Familiar by Kurokone Kamen

Since Amazon has deemed me unworthy of posting reviews, this will be where I put this. I recently joined Bluesky to promote my work and find an audience. Turns out, Bluesky is filled with creators trying to do the same thing.

The Axolotl Familiar by Kurokone Kamen is a manga-style graphic novel about an axolotl who accompanies his mermaid owner to a witch academy. I know! A mermaid witch attending Atlantis’s (mythology reference one) witch school, I’m in!

In her bio, Ms. Kamen mentions she enjoys fairy tales and it shows. The comic is filled with folklore references that made me chuckle. “Axol” the axolotl is an enchanted familiar or pet of Serina, the daughter of the seawitch (fairy tale reference two.) From the jump, it is clear that Axol and Serina are going to have some issues. The hostile vibe between the two is a good setup for the inevitable confrontation ahead.

During one of Serina’s classes, the teacher tells the story of the Moon rabbit (or Jade Rabbit — folklore reference three.) Axol is so intrigued that it sets him off on a mission. This book is part one of a story about Axol’s desire to see the Moon rabbit.

As I said there are a few references to mythologies and folklore throughout the story. Some made me giggle, some made logical sense for the story. Overall I give the author props for creating an atmosphere. The color is rich and moody, exactly what you would expect in a dark academia setting. Readers who enjoy “hot anime” girls will be pleased. Atlantis feels like a secluded, mystical place.

Being the beginning of the story there isn't much characterization, but you’ll notice the archetypes. Serina is the stock status-obsessed mean girl. Axol is the irritated and bored sidekick. His decision to go see the moon is a rebellion against his captivity. Ms. Kamen has created a character that I can root for and I hope he gets to do his star gazing.

The story is broken down into three graphic novels. All three are available on Amazon and are free with Kindle Unlimited. I think the idea is cute and imaginative and I recommend it for someone who really likes fairy tales.