Welcome back to another installment of Indie Comics Showcase, the weekly blog where we signal boost a few truly independent comics that are currently crowdfunding their projects, crowdsourcing their funding in some way, or just completely self-publishing on their own. Every little bit of support for these creators matters, from a single dollar pledge to the twenty-five dollar bundle, and of course the higher tiers are usually fun too! Even if you can’t back a campaign or buy a book, you can share or tweet about these projects to your friends and followers.
On Indie Comics Showcase, we interview the creators, show off some art, and tell you how you can check out the product for yourself. Below we have some outstanding crowdfunding campaigns this week for you to learn about, enjoy, and hopefully support by backing one or more of them! Thanks for checking these out and for being the best part of Indie Comics Showcase. Let’s jump in!
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Check out the campaign here!
Chris Braly: Christopher, for readers hearing about The Nostradamus Effect for the first time, what’s the quick elevator pitch? How would you describe the story?
Christopher Peel: During the French Revolution, a group of men break into Nostradamus’s tomb, and one drinks from the prophet’s skull—dropping dead instantly. Centuries later, an obsessed academic uncovers the relic beneath that same grave, awakening a supernatural plague. As the outbreak spreads, a CIA operative and a CDC doctor discover it’s tied to a hidden war between ancient forces. Now they must join a secret order to stop the woman behind it before a rift opens between our world and the supernatural. 26 pages, full color.
The Nostradamus Effect Trailer
CB: That’s such a fascinating premise. Where did this idea come from, and what pushed you to self‑publish it?
CP: The idea for The Nostradamus Effect started when I was watching a documentary about Nostradamus decades ago. The strange story about people disturbing his grave stuck with me and slowly grew into something bigger over the years. Eventually it became a supernatural thriller about power, belief, and the consequences of tampering with things that should remain buried. After writing the full story, I decided to bring it to life through indie comics, where creators have the freedom to tell bold stories without compromise. Crowdfunding allows readers to be part of that process from the very beginning.
CB: Who do you think this story will appeal to? What kind of readers is The Nostradamus Effect aimed at?
CP: The Nostradamus Effect is for readers who enjoy supernatural thrillers, historical mysteries, and dark adventure. Fans of stories like The X‑Files, Hellboy, The Da Vinci Code, and 30 Days of Night will feel right at home. It blends real history with horror and conspiracy, building a larger universe of strange forces hidden beneath the modern world. If you like high‑stakes stories where science, faith, and the unknown collide, this book is for you.
CB: Let’s talk about your approach to storytelling. How would you describe your style and creative process?
CP: My storytelling is grounded in real history and theology, then pushed into supernatural territory. I like stories that feel believable first, so when the strange things happen they feel genuinely unsettling. I start with heavy research and a full script, then collaborate closely with the art team to bring the atmosphere and pacing to life on the page. The goal is a cinematic reading experience that blends horror, mystery, and historical intrigue.
CB: Every great story relies on a strong creative team. Who’s helping you bring The Nostradamus Effect to the page?
CP: The Nostradamus Effect is illustrated by Carlos Granda, whose pencils and inks bring a gritty realism that perfectly fits the tone of the story. Colors are by Champe Ramirez, adding mood, atmosphere, and tension to every page. Letters are by Eric Weathers, one of the most respected letterers working in comics today. Together they elevate the script and give the world a grounded, cinematic feel. I’m incredibly fortunate to have such a talented team bringing this story to life.
CB: What stage is the project in right now? How much progress have you made on the first issue?
CP: The full story has already been written as a twelve‑issue series, so the direction of the project is firmly in place. Issue #1 is a 26‑page full‑color comic and the first five pages are already complete. We’re continuing production when the campaign funds, so we can move directly into finishing the issue and preparing it for print. My goal is always to keep momentum and deliver to backers as quickly and professionally as possible.
CB: As someone who’s gone through the self‑publishing and crowdfunding experience, what have you learned along the way?
CP: Crowdfunding has shown me how important community and transparency are in independent comics. Readers want to feel involved in the process and understand the journey of the project. It’s also taught me a lot about marketing, logistics, and the realities of bringing a book to print. Most of all, it’s reinforced that passionate fans are what truly keep independent comics alive.
CB: You’ve hinted that this is part of a bigger plan. What does the future hold beyond this first issue?
CP: The Nostradamus Effect is the first chapter in a much larger connected universe under the Bootlegger banner. Future stories explore different corners of that world, from supernatural investigations to historical mysteries and horror. Several additional titles are already in development. The long‑term goal is to build a library of stories that all exist within the same mythos.
CB: For collectors and backers, what kind of special perks or editions can they expect from the campaign?
CP: The campaign includes multiple cover editions, collector bundles, and limited items for fans who want to support the book. Backers will also have access to exclusive artwork and campaign‑only rewards. As the campaign grows, additional stretch goals will unlock more stories set within the same universe. My focus is making sure supporters feel like they’re part of building something bigger than a single comic.
CB: Before we wrap up, is there anything you’d like to say directly to readers checking out this project?
CP: The Nostradamus Effect has been an idea in my head for decades, and bringing it to life has been an incredible experience. Independent comics exist because readers are willing to take a chance on new creators and new worlds. I’m grateful for everyone who checks out the project and helps spread the word. This is just the beginning.
CB: We’re rooting for you, Christopher.
Check out the campaign here!
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Check out the campaign here!
Chris Braly: Dani, for readers just hearing about Veiled Legacy, what’s the quick elevator pitch? How would you describe the story in a nutshell?
Dani Soncasie: A rural midwestern family’s act of kindness leads to an unnatural home invasion, leaving EMMA HOGAN to survive the night alone, as her twin brother, JIMMY, races against the clock to save his family from forces unknown before they are lost forever!
NEW COMIC COMING! CHECK OUT VEILED LEGACY!
CB: That’s a great hook. So, where did the inspiration for Veiled Legacy come from, and what motivated you to take the self‑publishing route?
DS: Adapted from a book I published back in 2006, One Foot In Darkness, the idea came from several parts of my life and my love for vampire lore, Greek mythology, and badass James Bond gadgetry! I myself am an amputee, and I thought it would be awesome to have a superhero vampire hunter with a prosthetic leg loaded with more weapons—stake launchers, iron spikes, and toe daggers—than James Bond’s Q could dream up! I decided to self‑publish so that I could maintain 100% authenticity, keep all my rights, and do things entirely the way I envision them.
CB: Sounds like a ton of fun. Who do you think will really connect with this series? What kind of comic reader is it made for?
DS: This series would be perfect for mature readers and fans of comics like Constantine, Blade, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Doctor Strange. I also believe it would appeal to fans of movies like Near Dark, Salem’s Lot, and Sinners!
CB: Let’s talk about your creative style. What’s your process when you sit down to write or develop new material?
DS: It’s a series that definitely bleeds into multiple genres. (See what I did there?) Prestige Horror, Sci‑Fi, Myth‑Infused Dark Fantasy. I do a lot of meditation with ambient music for at least an hour before I write—the creepier the music, THE BETTER! I keep physical notebooks for each of my characters. I like to write longhand first before typing. I’m always a BIG FAN of dry‑erase boards! They help keep everything straight.
CB: Every great comic has a strong team behind it. Who’s helping you bring Veiled Legacy to life?
DS: This time around, I am fortunate enough to be blessed with an AMAZING editor by the name of Carrow Brown! Carrow is a multi‑genre author, comic writer, and narrative architect who has quickly become a force in the indie publishing and comics world. She serves as an Executive Assistant and creative lead at Rippaverse Publishing, collaborating with powerhouse creators, steering product launches, organizing major campaigns, and helping build one of the most engaged fan communities in the industry. She has helped me bring my vision of VEILED LEGACY from a 5 up to an 11!
I am also equally as blessed to be working with artist Evan Scale. He has worked on cover art, comics, board games, and various other illustrated media. Some of his latest works include the Legends of the Realm comics and the Age of Rome board game, as well as his and Carrow’s most recent project together through Rippaverse Comics, DIRTY DEEDS #1.
CB: What stage of production is the project currently in? How far along are you with completing the first book?
DS: The script for book one is complete. The script for book two is ALMOST complete. I have some amazing concept art, but that’s as far as we are at the moment! However, I am so excited to keep going!
CB: As a creator handling self‑publishing and crowdfunding, what lessons have you learned from the process so far?
DS: Patience is everything, but so is persistence and never taking NO for an answer! Never stop talking about your work, and keep “knocking on doors”!
CB: And after this first volume, what’s next for you and Veiled Legacy? Are there more stories planned?
DS: This is going to be a 10‑book series. Beyond this, there are so, SO many more stories to tell! I cannot wait to get them all out of my head.
CB: For readers interested in backing the project, what kind of special perks or tiers can they look forward to?
DS: There are some very cool perks if you pitch in and back the comic! We have 4 tiers! The lowest is only $1, and for that, you get your name in the back of the book. $10 gets you a digital copy, $25 gets you both a digital and physical copy, and $50 gets you a custom autographed physical copy!
CB: Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
DS: This book is everything to me. It has been a part of my life for 22 years. I HAVE to publish it before I leave this earth.
CB: Good luck, Dani. We’re rooting for you!
Check out the campaign here!
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That’s it for this installment. If you’re a creator ramping up your own campaign or have a comic available for purchase online and you want to be featured in our weekly column, click here so we can hopefully help you get more eyes on YOUR crowdfunding comic project. Until next time, support indie comics!
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