I take a break from my regularly scheduled ranting about my own writing and Malfoid to once again stress that original IPs are out there from talented people who have been making the stories that people want to read, they just haven’t gotten the attention they deserve. With Hiraeth, this is a two person passion project made by the immensely talented @olivetart_ and @Domaffon. An entire independent, hand drawn, manga drawn with art that matches much of the industry with its own distinctive style and writing. The story follows Jael, an expert monster hunter from a mysterious clan and Lauren, a spry and cunning woman who holds his contract on various adventures. The story seeks to span the world, which draws inspiration from history to grant the setting a very distinct weight to its design. It’s in the middle of “smaller” tales, but I’d say that’s where something like this can really make itself shine, especially with how the chapters so far have been going. This is truly a gem all aspects, one that is confident enough to respect the readers to both be taken in by the art (which has some of THE BEST designs for the characters and takes the care to be much more historically accurate than many big names), and not spoonfeed them information where it doesn’t need to be. The setting is unique, Jael and Lauren are both very likable characters to follow with a charming dynamic with one another, and the characters introduced during their journeys have a multifaceted approach to their motivations that make them feel human. Combine that with tight pacing and thrilling climaxes/action, and you have one of the most underrated mangas (and an INDIE manga, at that) out there. Even more astounding is that the chapters are being released for free! With this sort of quality just given to us, more really need to be aware of what is available outside of the industry and the mainstream. There are complete gems that outshine what we’re all used to seeing, they just need to be seen. Read this, seriously. Just friggin look at this art, pure aura.