The following is an interview with Kwento Comics co-founders Waverley and Cecilia Lim regarding their return to Kickstarter for the young adult urban fantasy graphic novel, The Mask of Haliya Volume 2: Echoes of the Forgotten Past, in collaboration with Clover Press. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with the Lims about their continued work with Clover Press and the benefits of crowdfunding, the shared creative process of bringing the graphic novel series to life on the page, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: You recently returned to Kickstarter for The Mask of Haliya Volume 2. Where will readers find the characters within this second volume of the series?
Waverley Lim: We’re plunging back into the heart of Cebu as our characters dive deeper into the secrets hidden within the city. Isla’s pursuit of her past takes her down a treacherous path, while Mari’s heart sparks with a new flame, drawing her into a thrilling investigation into Magkuno Forest. And just when you think you’ve met everyone, a new classmate with a mysterious double life enters the fray. As our saga continues to unfold, the ways in which all of our characters’ lives are intertwined will slowly begin to reveal themselves.
BD: What can you tell us about your shared creative process in reuniting with writer Kaitlyn Fajilan, and how do you feel that artists Susan Bin and Vik Caedo have served as powerful collaborators in bringing this world and characters to life on the page?
Cecilia Lim: It’s been a joy to continue collaborating with Katilyn on this story that is very near and dear to all of our hearts. It’s definitely been a labor of love over the last few years and to see our story come to life over the last 10 issues is something that we’re all super proud that we were able to create together. Susan and Vik and all the artists on our team have been absolutely vital, as they’ve been able to imbue the world and characters with such a dynamic energy. It’s really amazing to watch how our team has grown and elevated with each installment and the level of detail and care they pour into the story.
BD: Why do you feel that crowdfunding – Kickstarter in particular – has been such a valuable resource to ensuring the success of today’s comic book creators?
CL: Kickstarter has been a really great way for us to connect with our community of readers in an exciting way by having them be a part of helping our project come to life through exclusive rewards to backers. The platform has also been such a wonderful way for new readers to find us who may have not known a company or series like us existed. For any indie comic book creators, crowdfunding is an awesome way to take control of your own narrative and make creative projects come to life that might not have been possible otherwise.
BD: At Fanbase Press, our #StoriesMatter initiative endeavors to highlight the impact that stories can have on audiences of various mediums. How do you feel that Isla and Mari’s story may connect with and impact readers?
WL: I hope that Isla and Mari’s story serves as a powerful reminder that heroism is found in embracing our authentic selves. It’s easy to succumb to the pressure of perfection, particularly for women, but true strength emerges when we acknowledge our imperfections and find power in our vulnerability. Their journey demonstrates that facing adversity with courage and accepting every facet of who we are allows us to conquer obstacles, pursue our aspirations, and celebrate our unique and ever evolving identities.
BD: Are there any other projects – past or current – that you would like to highlight for our readers?
CL: We’re currently in the midst of our Kickstarter campaign for The Mask of Haliya: Volume 2 – Echoes of the Forgotten Past, and if you haven’t already joined us on this adventure, you can catch up on The Mask oh Haliya Volume 1: Heir to the Warrior Moon, available on our website or at Barnes & Noble.
BD: In light of the Kickstarter campaign, are there any particular backer rewards that you would like to highlight for our readers?
WL: Our first-ever trading cards are here featuring the gruesome creatures from Volume 2, and we’re so excited to share them with you! Many of these Filipino mythological monsters are unfamiliar to a wider audience, so we’re proud to offer a fun and engaging way to learn about the captivating, albeit frightening, side of Philippine folklore.
BD: Lastly, what is the best way for readers to learn more about Kwento Comics and your efforts to foster greater representation and inclusion in media?
WL: We hope that you join our community and connect with us on social media (@kwentocomics) on all platforms as well as on our website at kwentocomics.com to stay updated on our latest projects and initiatives.
