“Naruto” meets “Heartstopper” in this webcomic arriving in print for the first time
Class is in session in this new magical school series, beginning with Sparks Volume 1: Portals! This fresh LGBTQ+ coming-of-age fantasy tale began as a webcomic by Revel Guts, and will be available in a print edition from Dark Horse Books in July 2024.
In a world rising from the ashes of destruction, Human society thrives only through their complex alliance with the magical Satyr.
Philo has always been the worst student in his class at the academy, with powerful magic he can barely control. His lack of ambition and discipline is about to catch up with him as graduation day looms. When he’s paired to train together with the aloof star student Atlas, Philo’s magic backfires, teleporting them both far from home. Now, their futures depend on them working together to make it back to their school in time.
In just a few short days, the pair find common ground that their years of classes together never managed to build, and at some points Philo questions if he didn’t have the wrong idea of Atlas the whole time–wondering if their struggles to get home might plant the seeds for something bigger. Meanwhile, powers outside the academy are setting plans in motion that may change both of their lives.
“Sparks has been my passion project for the past 3 years,” said Guts, “and I’m so excited to be teaming up with Dark Horse to see it in print! I hope everyone who loves epic fantasy plot lines and juicy queer romance will have as much fun reading it as I have creating it.”
Sparks Volume 1: Portals will arrive in bookstores July 16, 2024 and comic shops July 17, 2024. The 176-page trade paperback, which measures at 5.125 x 7.25″, is available for pre-order now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and at your local comic shop and bookstore and will retail for $19.99.
Praise for Sparks Volume 1: Portals:
“Sparks is a multi-shipper’s dream!”—Puck (Hive Heart, Eclipse of the Son)
“The story, relationships and world of Sparks blossom before you like spring flowers. Illustrated with a nostalgic charm that shines through the quirky characters and holds you ’til the end.”—Rem, (illust. Devil’s Candy)
“Sparks is a heartfelt, whimsical romance with emotion that sneaks up on you! Delivered through adorable satyr boys!”—Wendy L. Martin (Castle Swimmer)
“Sparks is joyful, frisky and funny—you’ll find it impossible not to fall in love with its delightful cast and intriguing magical world.”—Kay O’Neill (Tea Dragon Society)
Source: Dark Horse