CROM Update 058 with Rom Parsons - Writer Collaborating with 2 Indie Comic Artists
In this episode of CROM Updates, host Kurt Brugel is joined by indie fantasy writer Rom Parsons to discuss their ongoing collaborations in the indie comics scene. Rom shares how he initially started working with James Anthony on a heavily illustrated prose story but, inspired by Black Mark by Gil Kane, transitioned the project into a more comic-oriented format. Drawnsword, another indie comic artist, reached out to Rom after reading Crom and the Ziggurat of Blood and proposed a separate collaboration for CROM Anthology, leading to an 11-page story called Crom the Courageous, which will be serialized in future issues.
The conversation delves deeper into the creative process behind working with artists, particularly the challenges of scripting comics for the first time. Rom expresses his gratitude for Drawnsword’s meticulous approach and James Anthony’s collaborative spirit, emphasizing the importance of balancing text and visuals without overloading pages. Kurt highlights how indie publishing can be overwhelming but stresses the value of community-driven anthologies, like CROM Anthology, which provide exposure and opportunities for creators without the burden of producing a full-length graphic novel alone.
As the discussion wraps up, Kurt and Rom explore the future of their projects, including a sequel to Crom the Courageous and Rom’s Citadel of Swords, which will be self-published through Amazon. They also touch on the importance of fostering a community for sword and sorcery enthusiasts, drawing inspiration from classic comics like Savage Sword of Conan. Kurt reinforces his mission to create a sustainable network where indie creators can collaborate and grow without the constraints of mainstream publishing, with CROM Anthology serving as a gateway for new and established talent alike.
Watch the CROM Update 058 video on YouTube:
Educational Highlights from the Podcast
Comic Script Writing vs. Prose – Rom shares insights into transitioning from prose writing to scripting for comics, emphasizing panel structure and balancing visuals with text.
Collaboration with Artists – The discussion highlights the challenges and rewards of working with illustrators, including patience, communication, and artistic trust.
Indie Publishing Strategies – Kurt and Rom discuss different publishing models, from print-on-demand via Amazon to anthology contributions, offering practical insights for aspiring creators.
Find out more about Rom Parsons by visiting his Socials
Use these links to find out more about Kurt inker Brugel.
Theme: Historical!
Demon of the Fjord by Kurt Brugel is a chilling Viking-era tale of obsession, betrayal, and sacrifice. When Sigvald, an aging jarl, and his loyal shield-brother Thorstein haul a mysterious sea creature, Eydis, from the depths of their fjord, they bring both wonder and doom to their village. Sigvald becomes entranced by Eydis, believing her to be a gift from Ægir, the sea god, while Thorstein sees her as a harbinger of death. As Eydis’s insatiable hunger grows, she begins to prey on the village, claiming lives and straining the bond between the two men. Thorstein’s warnings go unheeded as Sigvald’s obsession blinds him to the danger, culminating in Sigvald sacrificing himself to end the havoc Eydis has wrought. In a haunting final act, his poisoned blood kills the creature, leaving Thorstein to mourn his jarl and reflect on the tragic cost of hubris and devotion.
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Kurt Brugel's Virgin Cover Edition of the 2024 CROM Collected Comic is a must-have for fans and collectors alike. This special edition features an exclusive, stunning cover art by Kurt Brugel himself, showcasing his unique vision of CROM the Barbarian in all his glory.
Inside, you'll find 140 pages of intense, black and white sword and sorcery adventures that transport you to a world of epic battles, fierce warriors, and ancient magic. This magazine-size (8.5x11) comic book is meticulously crafted to deliver an immersive reading experience, staying true to the raw and untamed spirit of classic fantasy comics.
What makes this edition truly special is there is no waiting for weeks to get your hands on this collector's item. By purchasing Kurt Brugel's Virgin Cover Edition, you not only own a piece of unique comic art but also support the continuation of CROM's epic journey and the talented artists behind it.
Secure your copy today and join CROM in his legendary quest!
ISBN-13 979-8-9910745-0-6
