Today on the site, we’re revealing the cover for Monster Crush, a graphic novel by Ellie Franey releasing March 12, 2024 from Dark Horse Comics! Not only has the the book been written and illustrated by Franey, but the seriously charming cover has as well! Here’s a little more about the story before we get there:
Discover a new coming-of-age fantasy with LGBTQIA+ themes that speak to those who have ever felt like an outsider. Dark Horse Books presents an unforgettable story of self-discovery and teenage romance with a monstrous twist in Monster Crush. The entire whirlwind adventure of love, gender, and big emotions is written, drawn, and colored by Twitch streamer and cat mom extraordinaire Ellie Franey (Gender Turbulence).
Ruby Reid has struggled with life at Crestwood High since her parents split up. However, when Ella Mooney moved to town, everything changed. Ella isn’t like most teens: she’s never been on a Ferris wheel, never had an ice cream cone, and sometimes she grows fangs and a tail!
It’s not just Ruby who is interested in the new girl; the pair find themselves on the run from a mysterious group that wants to capture Ella and her whole family!
“It has always been my personal and professional goal to create content that features and represents LGBTQIA+ characters.” says artist and author Ellie Franey. “Being in the [LGBTQIA+] community myself, it has been a dream come true to create and bring Monster Crush to life. It is my sincerest hope that young adults of any background can enjoy this heartfelt tale.”
Full of big crushes and even BIGGER monsters, the 272-page (6” x 9”) graphic novel Monster Crush will be in bookstores on March 12, 2024, and comic shops on March 13, 2024, and is available for pre-order at both bookstores and local comic shops for $19.99.
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Erin Elizabeth Franey or Ellie, (she/they) is a Detroit-based illustrator & author with a BFA in Illustration from the College for Creative Studies. Their work blends graphic, comic, and digital art; touching on various topics from mental health to female empowerment and LGBTQ identity.When she’s not making comics, she’s streaming on Twitch, playing video games, or pestering her three cats. Follow Ellie on Twitter to keep up with their work.
Anna Kopp is a children’s author who lives in Ohio with her husband, two boys, and two cats. Anna loves creating fantastical stories for children of all ages, from picture books to young adult novels. When she’s not writing she’s playing video games or reading the latest books about lost princesses.
Gabrielle Kari is a freelance lesbian artist whose work is largely inspired by shoujo fantasy and romance. She loves creating comics and illustrations centered around queer stories whether it be science fiction, fantasy, or horror.