Highly Anticipating - Novice by Taran Matharu & Nimona by Noelle Stevenson

The Novice by Taran Matharu
Expected Publication Date: May 5th, 2015
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Page Count: 368 pages

He can summon demons. But can he win a war?
Fletcher is working as a blacksmith's apprentice when he discovers he has the rare ability to summon demons from another world. Chased from his village for a crime he did not commit, Fletcher must travel with his demon, Ignatius, to an academy for adepts, where the gifted are taught the art of summoning.
Along with nobles and commoners, Fletcher endures grueling lessons that will prepare him to serve as a Battlemage in the Empire's war against the savage Orcs. But sinister forces infect new friendships and rivalries grow. With no one but Ignatius by his side, Fletcher must decide where his loyalties lie. The fate of the Empire is in his hands.

Why we can't wait: A blacksmith who can summon demons?! This just sounds too good to be true. Also, Orcs? Yeah, we're in.
 

 

Nimona by Noelle Stevenson
Expected Publication Date: May 12th, 2015
Publisher: HarperTeen
Page Count: 272 pages

The graphic novel debut from rising star Noelle Stevenson, based on her beloved and critically acclaimed web comic, which Slate awarded its Cartoonist Studio Prize, calling it "a deadpan epic."

Nemeses Dragons Science Symbolism All these and more await in this brilliantly subversive, sharply irreverent epic from Noelle Stevenson. Featuring an exclusive epilogue not seen in the web comic, along with bonus conceptual sketches and revised pages throughout, this gorgeous full-color graphic novel is perfect for the legions of fans of the web comic and is sure to win Noelle many new ones.

Nimona is an impulsive young shapeshifter with a knack for villainy. Lord Ballister Blackheart is a villain with a vendetta. As sidekick and supervillain, Nimona and Lord Blackheart are about to wreak some serious havoc. Their mission: prove to the kingdom that Sir Ambrosius Goldenloin and his buddies at the Institution of Law Enforcement and Heroics aren't the heroes everyone thinks they are.

But as small acts of mischief escalate into a vicious battle, Lord Blackheart realizes that Nimona's powers are as murky and mysterious as her past. And her unpredictable wild side might be more dangerous than he is willing to admit.

Why we can't wait: We LOVE Lumberjanes over here at Books Inc. and we're so excited for this awesome debut from cowriter, Noelle Stevenson!!! Comics? Check. Girl power? Check. This just sounds AMAZING!