Written By: Sam Santiago
Independent comics continue proving they're some of the most exciting places for original storytelling, and San Diego based publisher Clover Press is making a major move into that space with the announcement of The Fourth Leaf, a brand new creator-owned publishing line debuting ahead of San Diego Comic Con 2026.
Originally founded in 2019 by IDW Publishing co founders Ted Adams and Robbie Robbins, Clover Press has earned a reputation for producing premium collections, art books, and original comics. Now, the publisher is expanding its catalog with a dedicated imprint focused entirely on creator owned comics and graphic novels.
The first wave of projects will feature new work from horror legend Steve Niles, the acclaimed creative team of Doug Wagner and Daniel Hillyard, along with a deluxe hardcover edition of Sean Lewis and Jonathan Marks Barravecchia's BEAR PIRATE VIKING QUEEN.
Publisher Hank Kanalz believes there's never been a better time for creator driven comics.
"We're living in an unparalleled time of creativity and opportunity in the comic book industry. We may not have flying cars (yet) and we may not be living on space stations (yet), but we are absolutely living in the future of near endless creative possibilities. It's our distinct pleasure at Clover Press to spotlight some of the stories that resonate deeply with us, and connect them directly to readers looking for something new and different. These are bold, bloody and pulpy stories by fearless creators, and we're proud to provide them a place to create without limits. These are stories to invigorate and ignite the future."
The First Titles Revealed
Leading the lineup is I LOVE APOCALYPTIC ZOMBIE MISFITS, the latest collaboration from Doug Wagner and Daniel Hillyard, whose previous work includes Plastic, Plush, Vinyl, Narco, and I Was a Fashion School Serial Killer.
The supernatural horror graphic novel follows a nerdy pacifist resurrected inside the body of a supernatural slasher who must protect a psychic child from the forces of Heaven, Hell, and everything in between.
Also joining the imprint is Cal McDonald: Plague of Evil and Other Stories from Steve Niles. The new collection returns readers to the world of paranormal detective Cal McDonald as he investigates a Los Angeles overrun with monsters, ghouls, and supernatural creatures.
Rounding out the initial announcements is BEAR PIRATE VIKING QUEEN, a deluxe oversized hardcover collecting Sean Lewis and Jonathan Marks Barravecchia's critically acclaimed fantasy series. The new edition marks the first time the title has been published in hardcover.
Launching Through Kickstarter
Each of the new creator owned projects will launch through Kickstarter later this year, with fans able to sign up now to receive notifications when the campaigns go live.
Clover Press Co Founder and Senior Art Director Robbie Robbins says the new imprint reflects the company's commitment to expanding its original publishing efforts.
"We are thrilled to be expanding Clover Press's line of publications to include more original creator-owned content. We're starting slowly, and are adding books that we like to read to our line. A Clover Press publication means a combination of quality content with a higher end format. We like to have fun making books and hope you'll have as much enjoyment reading them."
More information on The Fourth Leaf titles will be revealed throughout the summer, with Clover Press expected to showcase the new imprint during San Diego Comic Con 2026.
For horror fans, the addition of new creator owned work from Steve Niles and Doug Wagner alone makes this one worth keeping an eye on as these projects move closer to release.