I often say we are in a new Golden Age for comic books, because there are so many publishers putting out fantastic comics in all sorts of genres you wouldn’t see not too long ago. The downside is that with so many comics being put out, many get lost in the shuffle. For the industry to continue to grow, fans need to support as many publishers as possible.
There are tons of small publishers putting out fantastic comics, like Byrd’s Eye View Comics. It is a small press publisher launched by Chicago native Cory Byrd, whose passion for self-publishing and creator-owned narratives drives the brand’s mission. Specializing in high-energy storytelling, the company showcases a dynamic lineup of indie comic titles.
They have, in a few years, put out quite a few interestingly, fantastic comics. For instance, The Raven’s Macabre, published by Byrd’s Eye View Comics, is a horror anthology crafted to deliver bone-chilling suspense while spotlighting independent creators. Spearheaded by Cory Byrd, the series opens its pages to artists and writers from the indie comics community, each contributing terrifying tales with one goal in mind: to “scare the hell out of you.” There’s also another title I found interesting. Biorhythm is a sci-fi action title from Byrd’s Eye View Comics that immerses readers in a high-stakes future shaped by transformation, turf battles, and covert schemes. Penned by Matthew Bradley and brought to life through Lean Franchino’s dynamic artwork, the series delves into powerful themes of evolution, self-discovery, and the fight to endure in a fractured world.
However, I want to talk about one fantastic comic from them, and it’s a genre I don’t read a whole lot—manga. Tooth & Nail Vol 1. throws readers into the chaos of Neko Village, a once-peaceful land now under siege by the ruthless Ratto—an invading force driven by destruction. Standing between the village and total ruin are four feline champions: Jade, the commanding strategist; Sapphire, a modest yet skilled swordswoman; Onyx, quiet but resolute; and Destiny, unpredictable and mysterious. With their mentor Gin leading the way, this unlikely team must set aside their differences and forge a united front to protect what remains of their home.
Cory Byrd weaves together timeless martial arts motifs with a vibrant cast of anthropomorphic heroes, crafting a narrative that feels both nostalgic and newly imagined. The interplay between characters unfolds with natural rhythm, while the urgency of their mission is established from the outset. Visually, the manga-inspired artwork injects the fight scenes with dynamic motion, amplifying both the adrenaline and the emotional resonance.
What sets Tooth & Nail apart is its unapologetic embrace of indie energy—bold, heartfelt, and refreshingly unrefined. It celebrates the grit of collaboration, the strength found in unity, and the kind of storytelling that flourishes beyond the confines of the mainstream. Whether you’re drawn to shonen-inspired showdowns or indie comics that pulse with passion, this debut issue delivers a fierce and memorable punch.
This volume collects the first six issues for $29.99, but you can also buy the individual issues for $5.99. The series is already up to issue ten. Besides checking out their website, you can learn more about Byrd’s Eye via their Instagram and Facebook pages.
Again, usually, I’m not all that into manga. No fantastic reason, but, again, there are only so many comics a fan can read in a given week. With that said, I did enjoy those six issues and hope to read some more in the future. Take a look around their website—there are quite a few comics that might catch your eye. And, besides, when was the last time you supported a small press publisher?
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