I'm not entirely sure specifically as it might be a rather niche or new graphic novel. It could potentially be about a character named Merle Highchurch and his or her adventures, relationships, or a particular journey within the story world of the graphic novel.
I don't know who the author of the 'Merle Highchurch Graphic Novel' is. It could be a relatively unknown indie author or someone new to the graphic novel scene.
It is fiction. 'Shipmates' by Merle Collins is a fictional creation, crafted to entertain and tell a story that isn't directly based on real events or people.