VALE OF TEARS (2025/2026)

Vale of Tears is a historical fantasy series about Hannibal the conqueror in his years of exile after his failed conquest of Rome.
This book is based on a teleplay by Steve Kilbey (frontman of the legendary rock band the Church!) and Nicol Madunic.
Adapted to comics by Jason Franks with artwork by Keith Donald.

Published by IPI Comics, the first issue was in stores in December 2025 and then bimonthly.
It’s available through Lunar Distribution.

Issue 1 (24th December 2025)

Hannibal, the general who nearly brought the Roman Empire to its knees, is alone and on the run.
Rome wants his head. Brigands want his purse. All he has left is his blade, his horse, and his tattered reputation
—but the goddess Ishtar has plans for him. The famous Carthaginian’s story is far from over.

Issue 2 (25th February 2026)

At the behest of the goddess Ishtar, Hannibal arrives at the court of Antiochus the Great, who is struggling to pay
the taxes he owes to Hannibal’s old foes, the Romans. Perhaps this is an opportunity for Hannibal to have his revenge,
but first he must prove himself to the decadent king.

Issue 3 (13th May 2026)

Hannibal’s relationship with the Ishtar deepens as he prepares the decadent king Antiochus’ troops for a skirmish with Roman troops.
But who is more dangerous, the goddess or the empire?

Issue 4 (Expected 24th June 2026)

Betrayed and disgraced, Hannibal is off the board when general Flavius and the Roman army return to avenge themselves on the city of Antioch.
Hannibal must regain the trust of his patrons, both earthly and divine–if he is to survive the coming siege.