Magnetic Press has launched a Kickstarter campaign for Florent Maudoux’s seven-volume, manga-inspired action-adventure series Freaks’ Squeele. Today, The Beat can share an exclusive preview from Volume 1.
Freaks’ Squeele is a critically-acclaimed, internationally loved series that debuted in 2008 from Ankama Éditions in France. Magnetic Press’s Kickstarter launch for the series marks its U.S. debut.
Here’s the synopsis from the publisher:
In Freaks’ Squeele, the world is populated by demons, werewolves, gods, and mutants, many of whom are descendants of ancient mythological beings, and super-heroism is a regulated profession, like being a lawyer or doctor. Aspiring heroes must attend accredited universities, where they study combat and ethics and compete in duels and tournaments, often with lethal consequences. These events are broadcast and monetized, turning heroism into spectacle. The series follows three freshmen students—Chance, Li Xiong Mao, and Shadow—who must navigate these trials and tribulations while uncovering conspiracies, surviving sabotage, and managing the popularity of their identities.
Check out interior art from Volume 1 and covers for Volumes 1-7 below.
“Whether you’re into supernatural school drama, genre-bending art, or just want to see a werewolf fight a bear for dorm territory, Freaks’ Squeel delivers the goods—with claws, swords, and sarcasm,” said Magnetic Press publisher Mike Kennedy. “Think Jujitsu Kaisen meets X-Men by way of Scott Pilgrim, with a dash of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and a heavy pour of French irreverence.”
He continued, “The world of Freaks’ Squeele is a critique of power structures disguised as a superhero romp, where every sword swing, spell, and sarcastic quip is loaded with history, trauma, and rebellion. It is deeply addictive storytelling.”
The Freaks’ Squeele Kickstarter campaign features all seven hardcover volumes, and a limited edition “Dorm Footlocker” storage box. The campaign is live now.
