There’s something special about backing a book on Kickstarter. It’s not just about pre-ordering a story or receiving a beautiful, unique book (though that is certainly a big part of it!); it’s about becoming a part of the creative journey, supporting talented artists and authors that bring these books and characters to life. I love that Kickstarter allows passionate creators to bring their visions to life, and it lets us book lovers snag some seriously stunning works that might not otherwise exist.
I have currently backed two recent book Kickstarters, both of which embody everything I adore about this platform: incredible stories, stunning artwork, and the joy of helping make something beautiful happen!
There’s also a couple I WISH I grabbed and I have serious regret so I’ll share those too!
The Sword of Kaigen!
Prepare your emotions for this one, because it’s a powerful and deeply moving story. This book plunges you into the world of samurai families, as they fight with everything they have to protect their loved ones and their way of life. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, filled with sacrifice, bravery, and the bonds of family.
Originally a self-published work from indie author M.L. Wang, this book has already had the Kickstarter treatment (which I missed out on the first time round!!). I was so pleased to see another edition being made, new artwork and a completely different take on this special edition. This book wrecked my soul, broke my heart and turned my world upside down. It sounds very dramatic but I had just delivered my son when I read this and for the mumma’s out there, this is your warning if you pick this book up it is a heavy read. A brilliantly written, beautiful, emotionally rich read, but some of the topics are hard to swallow.
There is still a chance to back this book here.
The Memoirs of Lady Trent!
If you’re into fantasy, adventure, and groundbreaking female protagonists, you absolutely need to check this out! This series follows the remarkable Lady Trent, a brilliant and intrepid woman who dedicates her life to the scientific study of dragons. Think a Victorian-era naturalist, but with scales, fire and political drama!
The art in this book is phenomenal! This version is an omnibus of the first three books in the series, and I believe the final books will be in a seperate edition. I loved the stories over the course of the series and I can’t wait to read alongside the inside illustrations.
More info here.
Books I missed out on..
Depths of Vanalf
This stunning book ended before the books release date, which is the only reason I didn’t back it as I really wanted to read it first to see if I enjoyed it that much to seek out a special edition. With so many book boxes and special editions out there I’m trying to be more thoughtful of what I’m spending my money on, especially with delivery to the UK being quite high on Kickstarter, I have to be selective!
Maybe I will find this book secondhand somewhere! I’m gutted I didn’t back it but also very happy this self-published author got his book out there and fully backed by readers. Also look at the art?!
Find out more here.
Guard in the Garden
Another indie I didn’t back and now regret. Similar reasons to above I want to read books first before I spend a chunk of change on a special edition.
The artwork here is stunning and I do love a cosy story of found family, healing and a slow-burn romance.
Find out more here.
