New CRITICAL ROLE: THE MIGHTY NEIN ORIGINS LIBRARY EDITION VOLUME 1 Gathers Backstory for Yasha, Jester, Calbe and Nott

Dark Horse and Critical Role have teamed up to bring us Critical Role: The Mighty Nein Origins Library Edition Volume 1. This volume takes the standalone graphic novels detailing the backstories of Jester Lavorre, Caleb Widogast, Yasha Nydoorin, and Nott the Brave and combines them into one large book. This will be the first of two volumes and includes an expanded sketchbook section and all new cover art from Robyn Frauhn. Each story features a variety of writers and artists:

The first story in this library collection features Jester Lavorre. Immerse yourself in the mystery of Jester’s early years as daughter of the famed Ruby of the Sea, witness her first encounter with the Traveller, and watch the fateful events unfold that set her on her path to eventually joining the Mighty Nein. Written by Sam Maggs, with art by Hunter Severn Bonyun, colors by Cathy Le and lettering by Ariana Maher, in consultation with Critical Role’s Laura Bailey and Matthew Mercer.

In the second collected story, written by Jody Houser, with art by Selina Espiritu, colors by Diana Sousa, and returning writer Ariana Maher, with advice from Critical Role’s Liam O’Brien and Matthew Mercer, explore the troubled past of Bren Aldric Eremund of Soltryce Academy and witness his transformation into Caleb Widogast of the Mighty Nein.

The third story in this collection – the revelation of Yasha Nydoorin’s tumultuous past – features the work of writer Cecil Castellucci, artist William Kirkby, colourist Diana Sousa and letterer Ariana Maher, with consultancy from Ashley Johnson and Matthew Mercer of Critical Role. For Yasha, there was always a storm on the horizon. Perhaps it was formed with its adoption by the Dolorov people in the harsh lands of Xhorhas. Or maybe when she fell in love with her first love, Zuala. Or even later, when her pain and madness drove her from her village to… somewhere else. Perhaps, on the other hand, Yasha IS the storm.

Finally, writer Sam Maggs, artist William Kirkby, Eren Angiolini, and writer Ariana Maher, consulted by Critical Role’s Matthew Mercer and Sam Riegel, detail the tragic story of Veth Brenatto’s transformation. When the comfortable life with the family she loves is turned upside down by a goblin raid, Veth discovers a new side of herself… and is destined to become the goblin Nott the Brave of the Mighty Nein.

This collection is perfect for Critical Role fans who haven’t gotten around to getting these backstory graphic novels yet. Or if you just want them all in one place plus the extra goodies, then this book is for you. This volume features some of my favorite Mighty Nein members and I hope the sequel with the rest of the members isn’t too far off. You can pick up Volume 1 in bookstores September 12, 2023 and comic stores September 13, 2023 with pre-orders available now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and your local comic store and bookstore.