'Ashes' artist Jimmy Broxton leaves title

Ashes artist Jimmy Broxton has left the project, writer Alex de Campi has announced.

The Smoke scribe cited "creative differences" as the reason for the illustrator's departure, but Broxton later claimed that he was "fired" from the Kickstarter-funded project.

"Jimmy Broxton has been fired, and his services are no longer required on the Ashes Kickstarter graphic novel project," he wrote on Facebook.

"I'm incredibly sorry that this has happened, and feel strongly that a lot of people who have shown tremendous support (to say nothing of actually giving money to pre order the book) are being let down. I acted in good faith, you all acted in good faith, this is a mess, make no mistake."

Ashes, the follow-up to de Campi's Smoke, entered production following a successful appeal on Kickstarter. de Campi pledged to refund any donations from those who supported the project because of Broxton's involvement.

"Once I find a new artist, if his or her work is not a style you like, you may also contact me and be immediately refunded for your pledge," she said.

"Folks, I am so committed to making this book. I am so sorry for this drama, and I hope you will find it in your heart to bear with me for a little longer while I straighten this out.

"Please be aware that the money you have pledged is still YOUR money (none of it was ever going to me anyway, it was all for art and print/reward fulfilment) and I will be respectful of your wishes as to where it will go."

de Campi went on to say that Broxton will be compensated for the work he completed on the project, and that the search for his replacement is yet to begin.