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Misfit Mansion #1
Misfit Mansion
Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends meets Hilda and the Troll in this spooky and sweet middle grade graphic novel about a monster girl who sneaks out of her foster home and into a human town in search of a forever family but finds more than she bargained for.
Despite her monstrous appearance, Iris has never felt like she belongs in a mansion filled with kelpies and gorgons and unicorns. She longs to find a family. Unfortunately, she and her housemates are trapped in a “foster home for horrors” run by former paranormal investigator Mr. Halloway. So, when a human boy named Mathias breaks the house’s sealing spell, Iris and her companions are set free upon the town of Dead End Springs.
What Iris doesn’t know is that Mathias is also a paranormal hunter (the kind who seeks to capture and destroy the horrors), or that there are other dangers ahead. As Iris searches for a home, she makes human friends, explores a brand-new world…and stumbles upon a dark secret that Halloway has kept locked in the basement of the house. Will this long-slumbering mystery destroy the family Iris so desperately seeks?
Despite her monstrous appearance, Iris has never felt like she belongs in a mansion filled with kelpies and gorgons and unicorns. She longs to find a family. Unfortunately, she and her housemates are trapped in a “foster home for horrors” run by former paranormal investigator Mr. Halloway. So, when a human boy named Mathias breaks the house’s sealing spell, Iris and her companions are set free upon the town of Dead End Springs.
What Iris doesn’t know is that Mathias is also a paranormal hunter (the kind who seeks to capture and destroy the horrors), or that there are other dangers ahead. As Iris searches for a home, she makes human friends, explores a brand-new world…and stumbles upon a dark secret that Halloway has kept locked in the basement of the house. Will this long-slumbering mystery destroy the family Iris so desperately seeks?
304 pages, Hardcover
First published July 25, 2023
34 people are currently reading
976 people want to read
About the author
Kay Davault
9 books106 followersKay Davault is a graphic novel author and illustrator. She enjoys drawing both cute characters and terrifying creatures within colorful worlds.
UPCOMING BOOKS:
ODDITY WOODS BOOK 1 (2025)- Kid detective Marietta tries to solve the sudden disappearance of her father in a dark woodland realm inhabited by ghosts and monsters. Based on the 2016-18 webcomic.
MISFIT MANSION 2 (2026)
ODDITY WOODS BOOK 2 (2027)
UPCOMING BOOKS:
ODDITY WOODS BOOK 1 (2025)- Kid detective Marietta tries to solve the sudden disappearance of her father in a dark woodland realm inhabited by ghosts and monsters. Based on the 2016-18 webcomic.
MISFIT MANSION 2 (2026)
ODDITY WOODS BOOK 2 (2027)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
September 4, 2023
This is my new favorite graphic novel OF ALL TIME (other than Cici’s Journal)! I am absolutely obsessed with the depth of this story, the theme of found family and seeing the good in everyone, and the beautiful and vibrant illustrations. This is THE perfect fall book. I’m so happy I read this one and get to recommend it. Bonus points for the Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends vibes. 💛
August 20, 2023
I read about this book before it was released on Edelweiss, and the premise immediately pulled me in. Misfit Mansion is about a group of “horrors”, or paranormal creatures, who live in a mansion on the outskirts of town run by former paranormal investigator, Mr. Halloway. The main character, Iris, doesn’t feel like she belongs and she gets the perfect opportunity to venture into the town of Dead End Springs and see humans for the first time. Hopefully, she’ll finally find a real sense of family?
Now, for those who have read The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune, I was immediately getting some deja vu. I knew right away that I would probably love this book because it seemed like a pretty similar vibe to Klune’s masterpiece, and the artwork looked gorgeous. I’ve been trying to stretch my reading muscles a bit since becoming a bookseller, and I’ve never been a huge graphic novel reader. Misfit Mansion has officially converted me.
Starting off with the “horrors” themselves – they are adorable. There are some species that you’ll be familiar with, like unicorns and ghosts, and also some knew ones like kelpies and dreamons. The personalities of MC Iris along with her housemates Kel and Agnes are so individually and fully formed. It doesn’t feel like we just have one personality copy and pasted with a couple tweaks – which is a big pet peeve of mine. Agnes being the leader that she is, along with Kel’s pure love of gardening perfectly balance out Iris’ personality.
Our story’s antagonist from the start (or is he?) is Mathias – he’s a kid just like the rest of the horrors, but he has grown up as a paranormal hunter. He’s obsessed with catching a horror himself so he can make his aunt proud. I wonder what his aunt’s deal is…?
I won’t say more because I don’t want to spoil the fun, but this was DEFINITELY a read well worth it. For adult readers, you can probably read it in two days, three tops (I read it in two). For kids, it will probably take a bit longer, mainly because they’ll be so mesmerized by the artwork by Davault. I would 100% recommend this, especially in the coming months as *spooky season* is upon us. Not only is it a great Halloween-time read, but it’s got some great lessons in there for children and adults alike.
THANK YOU to Kay Davault for showing me what I’ve been missing in the world of graphica – I will definitely be taking a deeper dive thanks to Misfit Mansion.
Now, for those who have read The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune, I was immediately getting some deja vu. I knew right away that I would probably love this book because it seemed like a pretty similar vibe to Klune’s masterpiece, and the artwork looked gorgeous. I’ve been trying to stretch my reading muscles a bit since becoming a bookseller, and I’ve never been a huge graphic novel reader. Misfit Mansion has officially converted me.
Starting off with the “horrors” themselves – they are adorable. There are some species that you’ll be familiar with, like unicorns and ghosts, and also some knew ones like kelpies and dreamons. The personalities of MC Iris along with her housemates Kel and Agnes are so individually and fully formed. It doesn’t feel like we just have one personality copy and pasted with a couple tweaks – which is a big pet peeve of mine. Agnes being the leader that she is, along with Kel’s pure love of gardening perfectly balance out Iris’ personality.
Our story’s antagonist from the start (or is he?) is Mathias – he’s a kid just like the rest of the horrors, but he has grown up as a paranormal hunter. He’s obsessed with catching a horror himself so he can make his aunt proud. I wonder what his aunt’s deal is…?
I won’t say more because I don’t want to spoil the fun, but this was DEFINITELY a read well worth it. For adult readers, you can probably read it in two days, three tops (I read it in two). For kids, it will probably take a bit longer, mainly because they’ll be so mesmerized by the artwork by Davault. I would 100% recommend this, especially in the coming months as *spooky season* is upon us. Not only is it a great Halloween-time read, but it’s got some great lessons in there for children and adults alike.
THANK YOU to Kay Davault for showing me what I’ve been missing in the world of graphica – I will definitely be taking a deeper dive thanks to Misfit Mansion.
September 20, 2023
Great from beginning to end. I loved the messages of choosing our family, giving people a chance, and that the road to forgiveness is not instant. Couple that with the cutest "horrors" and some actually tense action sequences. I really couldn't put the book down toward the end.
This ended beautifully well, but I wouldn't mind another book with these characters either.
This ended beautifully well, but I wouldn't mind another book with these characters either.
October 20, 2023
Such an adorable story of found family! I picked this up for the Halloween vibes and it definitely delivered--both with the "horrors" cast of characters and the harvest festival setting! I loved this and I think this is great for kiddos, especially kids who might want something scary but can't actually handle scariness. I loved the way this wraps up and it can definitely stand on its own, but I would also love to see this as a series!
March 17, 2024
Good stuff. Glad I have my sister with me reading this too <3
September 5, 2023
It's impossible not to be charmed by this story about a home for misfit "monsters" trying to discover where they fit in the world. Iris and her found family of monsters, magical creatures, and cryptids have been raised with the belief that they must avoid the outside world at any cost, lest they be hunted or ostracized. Iris however, has her doubts about the motives of their guardian Mr. Halloway and wants to see for herself, seizing upon the nearby town's harvest festival to test her theories.
The character design manages to nail both cute and creepy/horrifying equally well but overall it leans into the cute so younger readers shouldn't be too freaked out. Some of the "horrors" are practically Pokemonesque. Plus, one of the themes is that behind every "horror" there's usually a creature that just wants to have companionship and be loved and it's the humans that need to prove their trustworthiness.
Based on the ending, I suspect at least another volume follows, and I am definitely on board. Perfect for readers who are into creepy and/or cute things and also a great fall/Halloween read to get into the spirit of the season.
The character design manages to nail both cute and creepy/horrifying equally well but overall it leans into the cute so younger readers shouldn't be too freaked out. Some of the "horrors" are practically Pokemonesque. Plus, one of the themes is that behind every "horror" there's usually a creature that just wants to have companionship and be loved and it's the humans that need to prove their trustworthiness.
Based on the ending, I suspect at least another volume follows, and I am definitely on board. Perfect for readers who are into creepy and/or cute things and also a great fall/Halloween read to get into the spirit of the season.
March 2, 2024
5 stars and my new favorite graphic novel.
This one was so cute, cozy and wholesome. This is always be a graphic novel that I will remember and recommend going forward. I loved the art style, the message and just the vibe this story gave. I think all the characters are just adorable and I really REALLY hope a sequel comes out.
My only tiny complaint is that I wish I would have read this during the Fall time because it takes place during a fall festival.
This one was so cute, cozy and wholesome. This is always be a graphic novel that I will remember and recommend going forward. I loved the art style, the message and just the vibe this story gave. I think all the characters are just adorable and I really REALLY hope a sequel comes out.
My only tiny complaint is that I wish I would have read this during the Fall time because it takes place during a fall festival.
October 23, 2023
This is the kind of graphic novel that I enjoy. It has beautiful bright illustrations along with a spooky feel. In Misfit Mansion we are following Iris who is a horror. She along with the other horrors were brought to the mansion they call home by Mr. Halloway to protect them from human hunters who want to hurt them. Iris longs to venture out and then she sees that Dead End Springs is having a fall festival for everyone she wants to go. While Mr. Halloway is away looking for Mr. Horrors, Iris and the others break out of the mansion to go to the festival. They soon realize that most humans do not want to hurt them at all.
I really enjoyed this and think that kids will too. There is a great message about accepting ones differences and found family.
I really enjoyed this and think that kids will too. There is a great message about accepting ones differences and found family.
October 26, 2023
This is so cute, loved this Graphic Novel!
November 25, 2023
I really liked it! Just when I thought it was over it would take another unexpected turn. It had a way of keeping the action alive even during the unexciting parts and hooking the reader. I would recommend this book for anybody looking for their next great read.
February 21, 2026
Amazing book! I absolutely love the illustrations! I can’t wait to read book two when it comes out!
March 3, 2024
This was so cute and charming!
Definitely drives home the theme of found family and I was here for it! Each character's design was so unique and I loved seeing the characters grow and change their outlook on things as the story progressed.
Definitely drives home the theme of found family and I was here for it! Each character's design was so unique and I loved seeing the characters grow and change their outlook on things as the story progressed.
October 27, 2023
One part Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children and one part Hotel Transylvania, Misfit Mansion is full of adventure and childlike joy.
Iris has only known the mansion of Mr Halloway’s Home for Horrors. She can’t remember where she was before or how she found her way there. And even though she’s happy being with her friends, she just wants to be able to see the town.
But Mr Halloway has painted them a picture of what humans think of them. He’s told them about the hunters who would destroy them if they knew where they lived. If they go outside, that could be the end of the world they knew. He creates a sigil on the door to keep the world outside, but he’s also locking all of the kids inside. It’s a very beautiful gilded cage.
And while he treats all of the other children like his own, Iris can see how he reacts when she walks into a room. It’s fear written all over his face.
When he goes out on a trip to save another horror, a human kid happens upon the mansion and sees the sigil on the door, using his silver pendant to bypass the lock… and once the door opens, there’s also a way out…
This was really cute! I could tell from the beginning this was going to be a book I loved. Not only did we have a cyclops, unicorn, dragon, vampire, and fairy, but there were also less common monsters that not everyone who reads would know right away from mainstream movies and media. There was a kelpie and a kappa, to name two off the top of my head. I really enjoy finding nods to folklore that I love.
Iris has only known the mansion of Mr Halloway’s Home for Horrors. She can’t remember where she was before or how she found her way there. And even though she’s happy being with her friends, she just wants to be able to see the town.
But Mr Halloway has painted them a picture of what humans think of them. He’s told them about the hunters who would destroy them if they knew where they lived. If they go outside, that could be the end of the world they knew. He creates a sigil on the door to keep the world outside, but he’s also locking all of the kids inside. It’s a very beautiful gilded cage.
And while he treats all of the other children like his own, Iris can see how he reacts when she walks into a room. It’s fear written all over his face.
When he goes out on a trip to save another horror, a human kid happens upon the mansion and sees the sigil on the door, using his silver pendant to bypass the lock… and once the door opens, there’s also a way out…
This was really cute! I could tell from the beginning this was going to be a book I loved. Not only did we have a cyclops, unicorn, dragon, vampire, and fairy, but there were also less common monsters that not everyone who reads would know right away from mainstream movies and media. There was a kelpie and a kappa, to name two off the top of my head. I really enjoy finding nods to folklore that I love.
August 24, 2024
Take Halloweentown, Hunchback of Notre Dame, the character-look of Onward, and Monsters Inc, throw them in a blender and you have the delightful, magical, spooky, mysterious, and mildly terrifying world of Misfit Mansion.
Iris wants a family and to be accepted by the foster caring Mr. Halloway. Between a breach in a magical barrier, a human boy, and a dark secret Halloway has kept buried in the house, it is up to Iris and her friends, human and mythologically monstrous, to put everything to right.
Kay Davault crafted a fun, adventurous and mystery filled graphic novel, popping with colorful characters, diversity, a well-thought out storyline, and just an all-around good time.
Perfect for Middle-School age graphic novel fans (ages 10-14) but any reader who appreciates mysteries and fantasy will appreciate this.
I look forward to seeing what other stories Davault comes up with.
Iris wants a family and to be accepted by the foster caring Mr. Halloway. Between a breach in a magical barrier, a human boy, and a dark secret Halloway has kept buried in the house, it is up to Iris and her friends, human and mythologically monstrous, to put everything to right.
Kay Davault crafted a fun, adventurous and mystery filled graphic novel, popping with colorful characters, diversity, a well-thought out storyline, and just an all-around good time.
Perfect for Middle-School age graphic novel fans (ages 10-14) but any reader who appreciates mysteries and fantasy will appreciate this.
I look forward to seeing what other stories Davault comes up with.
November 7, 2023
Oh my goodness this was amazing! I absolutely loved everything about this middle grade graphic novel. The bright illustrations really brought this amazing story to life. This one had a strong found family theme and it was beautiful. Even though it was a story about monsters, it was super cute. This is one I highly recommend picking up.
January 18, 2024
This book is PRECIOUS. I love the art; I love the story; I love the characters. I love everything about this book, just like I did with "Star Knights"! Kay Davault is incredibly talented artist and storyteller. Fans of K. O'Neill, Kat Leyh, Reimena Yee, and similar artists will find plenty to adore in this found family graphic novel.
August 4, 2024
Such a cute book! 🧡🎃
This book gave me Halloween vibes, ( or I'm just really excited for Halloween 👻💜). Anyways, because of all the halloween content, and on how cute this was it's definitely Five Stars!! 💛💫
This book gave me Halloween vibes, ( or I'm just really excited for Halloween 👻💜). Anyways, because of all the halloween content, and on how cute this was it's definitely Five Stars!! 💛💫
October 15, 2023
4.5
Very cute and fun!
Very cute and fun!
October 29, 2023
Gave me a younger version of a cute Halloweenteen vibes.
February 22, 2024
I'm always a sucker for the found family trope. Loved the art style and the entire cast of characters. All I want is to give Iris a hug.
July 4, 2024
What a cute book!!! This book has a really good storyline. It’s such a fun read!
I recommend it!!!
I recommend it!!!
October 15, 2024
Misfit Mansion
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ .5 (3.5/5) or 7.42/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 7
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 8
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 8
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ .5 (3.5/5) or 7.42/10 overall
Characters - 7
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 7
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 8
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 8
October 15, 2024
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 (7.42/10)
Characters - 8
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 7
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 8
Characters - 8
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 7
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 7
Logic - 7
Enjoyment - 8
June 4, 2024
So cute,a super cozy read
January 27, 2025
“It’s so good, I can read it over and over and over again!” -Mabel, age 7. This is a very cute comic book. Great for all ages. My 7 year old and my 4 year old both loved it.
March 13, 2023
Loved that this ARC was in color. Beautiful artwork and such a cute concept. It reminded me of Another Kind by Trevor Bream and Cait May. Unusuals (in this case monsters) wanting to live freely and normally.
March 30, 2025
A little creepy, a little cute, a whole lot of fun.
Highly recommend
Highly recommend
May 28, 2025
5's Across the Board
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎃 👻 🕷 🍁
With fall just around the corner, I have been on the search for something cute & cozy with similar vibes to Pumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell. This spooky/sweet read did not disappoint! The characters are totally frickin' adorable & the wonderfully colorful artwork is right up my alley. The story was so well crafted with a beautiful message about finding friends/family in unexpected places, embracing individuality, learning to overcome your fears, & navigating through forgiveness.
I will definitely be adding this to my annual reading list. I'm so excited for the sequel that's coming out next year!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎃 👻 🕷 🍁
With fall just around the corner, I have been on the search for something cute & cozy with similar vibes to Pumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell. This spooky/sweet read did not disappoint! The characters are totally frickin' adorable & the wonderfully colorful artwork is right up my alley. The story was so well crafted with a beautiful message about finding friends/family in unexpected places, embracing individuality, learning to overcome your fears, & navigating through forgiveness.
I will definitely be adding this to my annual reading list. I'm so excited for the sequel that's coming out next year!!!
October 29, 2023
such a cute little story about found family, growth, and forgiveness. the art is really colorful and vibrant, and all the monster characters are really fun. great fall vibes!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews