Author: Newsroom
Avery Hill Publishing has announced a delightfully absurd and heartfelt new graphic novel for Fall 2025: Who Killed Nessie? by celebrated writer Paul Cornell (Doctor Who, Elementary) and artist Rachael Smith (Wired Up Wrong, Artificial Flowers). The book hits shops in September 2025 and promises a uniquely British blend of dry wit, supernatural hijinks, and genuine emotional depth.
A Monster Mystery Like No Other
It’s Lyndsay Grockle’s first day managing the Lakeview Hotel, and things are already spiraling out of control. With her boss conveniently off on vacation, Lyndsay is left to host a highly unusual convention attended by a series of eccentric guests—who turn out to be cryptids from around the world. From Bigfoot to the Chupacabra, the hotel is suddenly filled with legendary creatures… and one of them is a murderer.
When the most famous cryptid of all, the Loch Ness Monster, turns up dead, Lyndsay—an unwavering skeptic—is forced to confront the impossible and take up the role of amateur sleuth. The result is a charmingly oddball whodunit that’s part Knives Out, part Gravity Falls, and all heart.
An All-Star Creative Team
Co-publisher Ricky Miller shared his excitement about the collaboration, calling it “a hell yes” moment when Rachael Smith and Paul Cornell pitched the idea. This is Smith’s third book with Avery Hill, and her work here is being celebrated as some of her best to date—especially her expressive line art and color work. With Smith focusing on visuals, Cornell’s script brings his trademark blend of humor and humanity to the page, balancing cryptid camp with emotional resonance.
At a Glance:
- Title: Who Killed Nessie?
- Creators: Paul Cornell (writer), Rachael Smith (artist)
- Format: 104-page softcover, full color
- Price: £14.99 / $19.99
- ISBN: 978-1-917355-23-0
- Publisher: Avery Hill Publishing
- Release Date: September 2025
Whether you’re in it for the mystery, the monsters, or the wonderfully weird art, Who Killed Nessie? is one to watch this fall.
