Now Live on Kickstarter — A Century-Spanning Sci-Fi Epic with Political Intrigue, Cosmic Horror, and Dazzling Visuals
What happens when awe turns to fear—and contact becomes conflict? That’s the driving question behind Here There Be Monsters, an ambitious new graphic novel that launched on Kickstarter on July 28, 2025. Crafted by writer Perrin Hess and illustrator Roberta Ivi, this indie sci-fi saga is already turning heads with its bold scope, emotionally grounded storytelling, and jaw-dropping art.
Spanning the years 2022 to 2089, Here There Be Monsters unfolds in five interconnected books, tracing the ripple effects of humanity’s first contact with an alien species known as the Umbrans. But this is no simple tale of diplomacy or invasion—it’s a layered narrative exploring propaganda, political power, moral ambiguity, and the monsters we become in the face of the unknown.
“When humanity discovers an intelligent alien species, the initial awe quickly gives way to fear, propaganda, and war,” the creators explain. “Each of the novel’s five books explores a different facet of this evolving crisis.”
A Debut Decade in the Making
While Here There Be Monsters marks the firet published work for Perrin Hess, it’s far from his first story.
“This is by no means the first story I’ve ever written,” Perrin says, “but it is the first story I’ve ever put out into the world. So I suppose you could call this my professional debut—a big ‘first’ for sure.”
Collaborating with Brazilian artist Roberta Ivi, Perrin brings a unique script-first perspective to the project. Having fallen in love with screenplay formatting and visual storytelling early on, a graphic novel was a natural fit.
“I always imagined Here There Be Monsters as an animated mini-series,” he shares. “But the film and television industry is tricky to break into. A graphic novel was the next best option—and the most efficient way to actually produce my story and get it out into the world.”
Global Collaboration, Local Impact
Despite living on opposite ends of the Americas—Perrin in Vermont and Roberta in Brazil—the creative duo has fused their talents seamlessly. Their shared love of eerie science fiction, flawed characters, and stunning visual art radiates through every panel.
Book One is already complete, fully illustrated, and ready to print. The Kickstarter campaign is now seeking support to fund Book Two, offering backers a wide range of rewards: digital and print editions, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, acknowledgments, and limited-edition extras.
Inspirations Behind the Monsters
When asked about his biggest creative influences, Perrin offers a refreshingly eclectic list:
- Love, Death, and Robots – “The way that show is done continues to inspire me… not just in terms of story and world-building, but in making something beautiful.”
- Anthony Doerr (All the Light We Cannot See) – “He’s shown me how much beauty one can create with only words.”
- Dungeons & Daddies (podcast) – “A silly, wacky time… but a constant inspiration for what’s possible for an independent creator.”
The result is a story that aims to entertain, unsettle, and inspire—proving that independent creators can craft worlds every bit as immersive and provocative as those backed by major studios.
Back It Today!
The Kickstarter for Here There Be Monsters runs until August 27, 2025. With a completed first volume, a clear roadmap, and an engaged creative team, this is one campaign that science fiction fans—and indie comic supporters—won’t want to miss.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/htbm/here-there-be-monsters
Instagram: @perrin___ and @roberta.ivi
Mixed Media Magazine 