So, how should I describe the ATHENA manga series by Dean Hsieh to you? Honestly, it’s a wild mix of some of the coolest elements out there. Imagine a sci-fi manga about Olympian gods returning to Earth after they’ve retired, with some naughty themes — similar to a comic in my own Athena and Hermes series, like that cheeky Kim Kardashian comic. Add a pinch of God Complex: Dogma and Athena (Dynamite) comics into the mix. Then, incorporate a touch of sci-fi excitement reminiscent of the classic 1990 film Total Recall, particularly the sleazy Venusville bar scene. On top of that, include some timeless, unexpected romance that will totally surprise you. This is the incredible ATHENA American manga series by Dean Hsieh!
Here’s another hint of what to expect: The Coming of Aphrodite comic points the way, but this unforgettable ATHENA comic series does it way, way better — with one scene that is incredibly funny. ATHENA by Dean Hsieh is worth reading just to see that ‘boing’ moment alone, ha-ha-ha.
The ATHENA (Dean Hsieh) manga comic series is truly unlike anything else — a cool blend of punk rock attitude and legendary mythos. The story follows the punk band Serpenteena, led by Athena herself, who is not only the fiery lead guitarist and singer but also a cool rebellious boss babe. After the new gods swept in and took over Olympus — much like how the Olympians replaced the Titans — Athena was forced to leave her divine home. Yet, she doesn’t seem too bothered by it. She’s got a new home somewhere in Pan Athens, living there in the years around 2047, still rocking out and stirring up chaos. But with Olympians involved, nothing is ever straightforward or dull — it’s a wild, unpredictable ride filled with surprises, attitude, and mythic madness. Trust me, you have to read it to believe it.
ATHENA by Dean Hsieh: Manga Comic Review
So, in honor of Dean Hsieh and his awesome ATHENA manga comic series, I decided to do a little town adventure — walking around and snapping photos with the comics at random spots. Honestly, it was pretty spontaneous. But here’s the memorable moment: there are fourteen ATHENA comics in this manga series, not including #0. I was on the last one, ATHENA #14, when I thought, “I’ll take a photo of this one on my way back to the car.” Easy, right? Well, I couldn’t find a good spot to take my picture.
Then, as I got closer to my car, I saw two police vehicles parked right next to mine. WTF! Turns out, it was someone getting arrested right next to my car! I swear, it felt like a sign from the Greek gods themselves. You can see one of the police cars in the ATHENA #14 comic picture below — trust me, I didn’t plan this! I never saw it coming. It just goes to show that my upcoming interview with Dean Hsieh must have the Universe’s full attention! Or maybe even Athena herself!
Athena #1 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
When I first flipped open the cover of ATHENA #1, I was immediately hooked. There’s a section that explains the backstory — how the Merikites overthrew the Olympian gods to become the new deities. Interestingly, the Olympians weren’t killed, just banished, which basically means some of them just retired. Athena is one of those retired gods. She’s now living in mid-21st-century Athens, which has transformed into a sprawling megalopolis called Pan Athens. These days, she’s in a band and hangs out with other former gods, trying to forget her past.
The ATHENA #1 comic by Dean Hsieh introduces the main characters right away. I wasn’t sure if I was seeing the whole cast at first, but nope, there are more characters to come as the series progresses. In this issue, you get close-ups of Athena, Kallie, Dionysus, Jay, and Herma — definitely check out their profiles. Overall, the start of the Athena manga is super intriguing, and I can’t wait to share where it goes from here with you.
Meet Athena and her band as they hit up a venue in Pan Athens, making their mark — kind of rough around the edges, but they’re having a blast. Their music might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the good vibes and passion are what count.
I won’t spoil too much, but trust me, if you get the chance to dive into this story, you’re in for a wild ride — full of bar fights, romantic twists, and moments that will keep you hooked.
At the end of Athena #1, Dean Hsieh even has his own little column called “Noise Maker.” Just a heads-up: every Athena comic, except for the final issue #14, features this section. It really adds to the series by including a bunch of fan letters, making the whole Athena manga comic even more fun and engaging.
Seriously, the ATHENA series by Dean Hsieh is an absolute must-read! I’m excited to share with you the first fourteen comic covers and give you a quick sneak peek into what’s inside each of them. Along the way, I’ll share a few brief thoughts or impressions from each issue. But remember, this is just a teaser — there’s so much depth and complexity in this series that you could probably write a book about it. Once we’ve gone through everything, I’ll share my final thoughts on ATHENA. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!
And hey, don’t forget to check out that epic police vehicle shot I’ll drop in for the ATHENA #14 cover. This series has seriously caught Athena’s eye, so keep on scrolling to see what’s in store if you decide to dive into this manga — because let me tell you, it’s one hell of a ride…
Athena #2 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
So, what’s the Cardigan Club all about in the Athena comic series? It’s basically a spot where you can catch some of the wildest, kinkiest dancers in action — live and in person. One of the beautiful dancers there is Herma, the unique daughter of Hermes and Aphrodite, who has a pretty intriguing vibe.
Just a heads-up, the series does include some adult themes, so it’s definitely not for young kids. But for anyone 15 and up, it’s all good to go!
Athena #3 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
Throughout the Athena manga series, you’ll experience some intense and memorable fights. However, one confrontation truly stands out — featuring Gino, the Hawaiian Hercules and leader of the Hercules gang. Here’s the intriguing twist: he possesses a surprising weakness! Can you guess what it might be? Honestly, you’ll never guess it.
Athena #4 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
Even though Athena’s retired as a god, she still has some pretty incredible powers. Honestly, that’s kind of unexpected. Hephaestus wants to run a few tests on her to figure out what’s really going on. And as you can see, this is where the sci-fi stuff starts to kick in and the story gets a little more out there.
Athena #5 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
Playing in a punk rock band isn’t quite enough to pay the bills, so Athena explores a few different gigs before ultimately settling into a role as a bouncer at the Cardigan Club. Yes, this retired goddess is still a formidable force — strong, assertive, and resilient. And with that strength comes the inevitable drama and excitement you’d expect from someone of her caliber.
Athena #6 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
Dionysus presides over the Cardigan Club, his revelry still alive and thriving amidst the vibrant energy of Pan Athens. The god of festivities appears to be relishing life in his retirement, savoring the chaos with a mischievous grin.
Meanwhile, Herma finds herself entangled in her own struggles, navigating a complicated relationship with her mother, Aphrodite, whose influence weaves through her life’s drama. With destinies intertwining and tensions simmering beneath the surface, one can’t help but wonder — where is all this heading?
Athena #7 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
Issue 7 of the Athena manga series delves into a compelling flashback set in 1923 — prior to Athena and the Olympians being dismissed. During this period, Zeus maintains a ruthless, mob-like grip over Olympus, ruling with an iron fist. However, a prophecy is on the horizon, threatening to unleash chaos. Meanwhile, Apollo departs for Delphi — what could be his purpose?
Athena #8 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
The Cardigan Club draws in quite a few visitors eager to see the exotic dancers, but not everyone there has the right intentions — some have sneaked inside and others are just itching for a fight. So, how’s Athena planning to handle all the trouble?
Athena #9 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
In Athena #9, we discover that Apollo has a daughter named Emmeleia, the goddess of simwave music. Her mother is Erato and she’s the first of the Merikite generation.
Athena #10 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
Aphrodite makes a seductive appearance in Athena #10. As the mother of Herma, her presence is both alluring and commanding, yet she doesn’t let that stop her from attempting to seduce Jay — who harbors a deep crush on Herma.
Athena #11 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
In issue 11 of the Athena comic series, the story takes a thrilling leap into the sci-fi realm. With Apollo and Nemesis uniting their forces, it’s clear that a formidable wave of vengeance is on the horizon. The stakes have never been higher as new technological wonders and interstellar intrigue propel the narrative into uncharted territory.
Athena #12 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
In Athena #12, Apollo gains access to the gateway of the source powering the Merikite Tower, which threatens to upend the very foundations of the existing power structure.
Athena #13 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
Athena #13 shifts into overdrive, her power surging forward. The Fates appear utterly destroyed, as if they’ve been caught totally off guard. So, what are Herma and Dionysus doing here?
Athena #14 (Dean Hsieh): Manga Comic Review
Take a look at the photo below — there’s a police paddy wagon parked right next to my car. Interestingly, there were actually two of these vehicles there, but by the time I snapped this shot, only this one remained. From what I remember, someone was being taken inside this very vehicle. I can’t help but wonder — what was his story? What charges led him to suffer this fate at the end of my Athena manga comic photoshoot trip as I returned to my vehicle, not long after the sun went down?
You really are fucked in the head, Apollo. LOL
ATHENA Comic Series: Review Conclusion
Honestly, I want to be upfront with you. Before I dove into reviewing Dean Hsieh’s Athena manga comic series, I actually scheduled an interview with him. To be honest, I was a bit nervous about what I’d say if I ended up not liking it. Would I be tempted to stretch the truth? Luckily, I don’t have to worry about that because this series is fantastic!
The story is engaging and incredibly unique. It feels like a breath of fresh air, and I’m really glad I discovered it. It’s definitely one of the most original Greek mythology comics I’ve ever read — and I’ve read quite a few.
I’d give ATHENA by Dean Hsieh a brilliant 9 out of 10. It has everything: romance, a touch of sleaze, sci-fi elements, and Greek gods and goddesses who aren’t your typical portrayals. Honestly, what more could you want from a comic?
If I had to be picky, I’d say some of the covers could have better reflected the story inside. For example, you wouldn’t be able to guess from just looking at the covers that sci-fi plays a role in the series. The fourteen comics are also collected in two trade paperback volumes, but even those covers, in my opinion, don’t quite do justice to this American manga series. That said, some of the ATHENA comic covers, like #1, #3, #6, #7, and #12, are pretty great.
But enough nitpicking — overall, Dean Hsieh’s ATHENA manga comic series is awesome. Athena is a fantastic read and honestly, I think it could make a killer film too!
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