In the ever-evolving landscape of geek culture, few names resonate as strongly as Critical Role. As the company celebrates its tenth anniversary, it is embarking on a bold new chapter in publishing, led by none other than Liam O’Brien, affectionately dubbed the "heartbreak prince" by fans. With a diverse lineup of books ranging from children's tales to full-length novels, this initiative marks a significant milestone for the brand and its passionate community.

Unveiling the Next Chapter of Nerd Culture

The world of Critical Role is expanding beyond screens and live streams, diving headfirst into the literary realm. This strategic move not only capitalizes on their established fanbase but also introduces their rich storytelling to an even broader audience.

Pioneering Publishing with Passionate Leadership

At the helm of this ambitious project is Liam O'Brien, whose multifaceted contributions to Critical Role have been instrumental in shaping its success. Known for his dynamic performances across various media platforms, O'Brien now channels his creativity into curating a robust publishing program. His deep-rooted love for literature, cultivated since childhood, fuels his commitment to crafting compelling narratives that resonate with both existing fans and newcomers alike.O'Brien's role extends far beyond mere oversight; he actively participates in every aspect of the publishing process. From conceptualizing storylines to collaborating with renowned authors under Penguin Random House, his involvement ensures authenticity and quality in each publication. Moreover, his keen eye for detail shines through when curating art books or consulting on graphic novel projects with Dark Horse Comics, further enriching the overall experience.

Enchanting Young Minds with Magical Tales

Critical Role's 2025 publishing slate includes two highly anticipated children's books penned by its co-founders. First up is "Der Katzenprinz," authored by Liam O'Brien himself. This enchanting collection features three hauntingly beautiful fairy tales set within the mystical Exandria universe. Drawing inspiration from classic folklore, these stories captivate young readers while offering valuable life lessons woven seamlessly into their plots.O'Brien explains how personal experiences shaped the creation of "Der Katzenprinz." Growing up surrounded by dark yet captivating fairy tale anthologies sparked his imagination and influenced his writing style. These influences are evident throughout the book, where elements of mystery and wonder abound, creating an immersive reading experience for children eager to explore fantastical worlds.Complementing this release later in the year will be "Smiley Day: A Good Advice Book From Your Favorite Robot Therapist," crafted by fellow co-founder Sam Riegel. As a proud father of two, Riegel brings authenticity to this endeavor, recognizing the importance of high-quality children's literature. Inspired by countless bedtime stories shared with his own kids, he aims to contribute positively to the genre by producing something truly special – a guide filled with wisdom delivered humorously via robotic therapist Smiley Day.

Collaborative Storytelling Through Novel Adaptations

Beyond juvenile fiction lies another exciting facet of Critical Role's publishing endeavors - collaborations with esteemed writers from Penguin Random House. Together, they bring beloved Dungeons & Dragons campaigns to life in novel form, allowing fans unprecedented access to cherished characters' backstories and untold adventures.One such collaboration resulted in "Vox Machina — Kith & Kin," published in 2021. Authored by Thea Guanzon, this expansive narrative delves deeply into the intricate histories surrounding half-elven twins played by O'Brien and Laura Bailey during live streams. Such adaptations serve dual purposes: satisfying devoted followers seeking greater insight into familiar faces while simultaneously attracting potential new enthusiasts intrigued by standalone works of fantasy fiction.Looking ahead to 2025, additional titles promise similar excitement. Among them stands out "Tusk Love," written by Thea Guanzon once more, inspired directly by personalities introduced during Critical Role's second extended campaign arc. Another noteworthy addition comes in the form of "Vox Machina — Stories Untold," which compiles short stories tied together by a foreword penned by none other than Liam O'Brien himself. Each entry offers unique perspectives on well-known scenarios, providing fresh angles for long-time admirers to enjoy.Elizabeth Schaefer, publishing director at Random House Worlds, praises the exceptional talent displayed by the Critical Role team. She emphasizes how their knack for spinning engaging yarns translates effortlessly onto printed pages. Thanks to the richness inherent within their settings and cast members, possibilities remain virtually limitless regarding future publications spanning multiple genres, including cookbooks and behind-the-scenes insights.