CHiMERA


Can she outrun the beast inside?


A sci-fi detective thriller comic series inspired by Hawaiian mythology

#1 - HOME

A disastrous leak compromises a secret military squad created by Island Health & Wellness Spa, a front for a genetics program that developed theCHIMERAS: Mercenaries given the power to shapeshift into car-sized beasts.Narrowly surviving their last mission, Chimera Akela Barrett returns home with her squad, only to be forced into a shock collar and demonized by the media.Yet quiet hatred isn't the only thing monsters should fear.


#2 - Mortal

Malevolent 'aumakua, mo'o, shapeshifters, monsters.
As black ops mercenaries return home to utopian Neo ‘Āina, the public discourse is upturned with shocking leaks:
THEY are among us, and they're dangerous. The anonymous leaker delivers another name: CHIMERAS. Not human, not animal. Something in between.Chimera Akela Barrett regrets everything. The power the Company gave them in exchange for their indentured servitude. The missions that still give her nightmares. The monster hiding just beneath her skin. The shock collars locked around their necks. And now, the rabid public at their doorstep.The only spots of hope are the bonds she forged with her fellow Chimeras: Chavez, Ramirez, and Walters; and the surprise promotion to detective at her father's precinct.She's terrified both are about to be ripped away from her.


#3 - The Guardian of Mānoa Falls

Narrowly surviving an assassin’s blade, Akela becomes paranoid that her friends are next.Shocked as the news champions her as a mythical folk hero for a daring rescue caught on camera; Akela struggles to both keep her partner in the dark and catch up to the mysterious assassin as he sets his sights on human targets.


Kaupe, mo’o, ‘aumakua…

A shapeshifting sci-fi detective thriller limited series set in futuristic Hawaii.

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NEWSLETTER UNDER CONSTRUCTION—Thanks for being patient!


TitleSubtitleRelease
CHiMERA #1HomeMid-2025
CHiMERA #2MortalLate 2025
CHiMERA #3The Guardian of Mānoa FallsTBD, expected late 2026



Artist/Colorist - José M. Villarroel


Precursor Publishing



Thank You


For your support of 100% human-made, indie comics!


Local Supporter - Pop Comics of Pensacola, Florida


© Sam M. Smith and José M. Villarroel, all rights reserved.