ANTE:​ Steam Junk Western

A 60 page book with 52 pages of story

and 5 pages of opening narration

Written by Thomas Stenger (RogerRider)

Art by James Harris (The Jinja Ninja)

What's the story?

It has been nearly 20 years since the last "Ante-Hero" has walked the land.  In that time, the country has been divided by Civil War, and The Union trains new Cadets to replenish the ranks.  Resources are scarce, laws are strict, and no one is safe.  This book follows a day in the life of an Army Hero's daughter as she prepares to serve a cause she does not believe in.  Find out what characters she locks horns with, the few she respects, and the events that change her life forever.

Who are the characters?

Our introduction to Tent City is through the eyes of "The First of The First."  A hot headed heroine set to follow in her father's footsteps as we learn the layout of the land.  Before becoming a Cadet, she has been training with her dad to give her an advantage over any adversary.  Her peers disapprove of this preferential treatment and paint a target on her back.

Another key player is "The Son of The Union," the main character in his own mind.  The General's son thinks highly of himself and his fighting abilities, to the point of appearing arrogant.  While his confidence is never lacking, he is constantly seeking the approval of his father who keeps him at arm's length.

Discover these characters and more in the start of this ongoing series.

How is it made?

James Harris is a traditional artist, everything is created with physical pencils, inks, and colors.  The inked pages are scanned and laser printed to paper then finished with watercolor paint.  There are perk tiers available to own either an original inked or original painted page of the book.

Thomas Stenger is crafting this story like a puzzle.  There are plot twists and character moments being setup now that will be paid off later.  This style is meant to reward critical readers with a keen eye for noticing the minor details.

What is the theme?

The main theme of this series explores the idea of "life goes on" through the perspective of different factions.  Each have its own take on the subject and will generate unique interactions that occasionally conflict with one another.  A constant motif that will effect the core characters is how things change.  Sometimes for the better, often times for worse, but always consistent with the narrative being portrayed.

What are the rewards?

While there are no stretch goals on this campaign, everyone who backs will be receiving more than just their order.  To build the Ante Comics brand, each campaign will come with a custom poker chip to commemorate the launch of a new book.  Beyond that, there are ideas for stickers, bookmarks, playing cards, trading cards, posters, magnets, and patches, but nothing is set in stone.  Add some excitement to crowdfunding by weighing the risks to rewards!

Black and White book available