The fantastical world of Christelle Dabos’s acclaimed novel, *La Passe-Miroir* (The Mirror Crossing), is leaping from the page to the graphic novel format. Published by Gallimard BD on January 28, 2026, this adaptation, brought to life by artist Vanyda, promises to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers to the series. The project marks a significant expansion of the *La Passe-Miroir* universe, already beloved for its intricate world-building and compelling characters.
Dabos’s series, which began as a young adult novel, has garnered a dedicated following for its unique premise and richly imagined setting. The story centers on Ophélie, a young woman with the extraordinary ability to read the history of objects and traverse mirrors. This gift, however, comes with a heavy price when she finds herself betrothed to Thorn, a member of the powerful Dragon clan and drawn into the complex political machinations of the Citacielle. The graphic novel adaptation aims to visually translate the novel’s intricate details and emotional depth, offering a fresh perspective on this beloved story.
A New Dimension for a Beloved Saga
The first volume of the adaptation, titled *Les Fiancés de l’Hiver* (The Winter Fiancés), faithfully recreates the initial arc of the novel. According to Gallimard BD, the book spans 280 pages and is available in both print (€28) and digital (€19.99) formats. The adaptation has already received praise from critics, with Biblioteca calling it “an odyssée visuelle et romanesque qui captive et qui transporte” (a visual and romantic odyssey that captivates and transports). Page des libraires noted that Vanyda lays the foundation for a successful adaptation, while Télérama highlighted her ability to accurately capture the mysterious and elegant universe created by Dabos. Libération praised Vanyda’s rendering of the “foisonnants paysages des arches” (lush landscapes of the arches), and Zoo Le Mag commended the harmony between Vanyda’s artwork and Dabos’s writing. Other publications, including Picsou Magazine, Arc Info, Haut Anjou, and Je Bouquine, have also lauded the adaptation as a “superbe adaptation” (superb adaptation) and a “réussite” (success).
The Creative Partnership: Dabos and Vanyda
Christelle Dabos, the author of the original *La Passe-Miroir* series, announced the graphic novel adaptation with “profound emotion” on December 29, 2025, via her official website. The announcement detailed the opening of pre-orders for the first volume. Dabos’s work has resonated with readers for its intricate plot, compelling characters, and exploration of themes such as identity, belonging, and the power of the past. The series has become a “culte” (cult) favorite, and this adaptation seeks to broaden its reach.
Vanyda, the artist behind the adaptation, faces the challenge of translating Dabos’s complex world into a visual medium. Her work is praised for its ability to capture the “mirages et illusions” (mirages and illusions) central to the story. The success of the adaptation hinges on Vanyda’s ability to convey the atmosphere and emotional nuances of the original novel through her artwork. The artist’s style appears well-suited to the task, promising a visually stunning interpretation of Dabos’s creation.
Exploring the World of the Arches
The *La Passe-Miroir* series is set in a unique and imaginative world comprised of “arches” – fragments of different worlds and eras brought together by a cataclysmic event. These arches float in a vast expanse, each with its own distinct culture, laws, and environment. Ophélie’s ability to traverse mirrors allows her to move between these arches, uncovering secrets and navigating the complex political landscape. The graphic novel adaptation offers a new way to experience this fascinating world, allowing readers to visually explore the diverse and often dangerous environments of the arches.
The story begins on the arch of Anima, where Ophélie lives a relatively peaceful life until her forced betrothal to Thorn. This event propels her into the heart of the Citacielle, the court of Lord Farouk, a place rife with intrigue and danger. The adaptation promises to delve into the power dynamics and hidden agendas that shape this world, offering a compelling narrative for both fans of the original novel and new readers alike. The adaptation will likely explore the themes of political manipulation, social inequality, and the search for identity that are central to Dabos’s work.
Availability and Future Volumes
*La Passe-Miroir Tome 1 – Les Fiancés de l’hiver* is currently available for purchase in print and digital formats from Gallimard BD and other booksellers. The graphic novel adaptation is part of Gallimard BD’s “Fétiche” collection. The success of the first volume will likely determine whether subsequent volumes of the series are adapted into graphic novels. Fans of the series eagerly await the continuation of this visual journey through the captivating world of *La Passe-Miroir*. Pre-orders were officially opened on January 28, 2026, as announced by Dabos.
The adaptation represents a significant step in expanding the reach of *La Passe-Miroir*, bringing Dabos’s imaginative world to a wider audience through the visually engaging medium of graphic novels. With its compelling story, intricate world-building, and talented creative team, this adaptation is poised to become a major success in the world of bandes dessinées.
The next confirmed step in the *La Passe-Miroir* universe is the continued availability of the first volume of the graphic novel adaptation. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and reviews of the adaptation online and to follow Christelle Dabos and Gallimard BD for updates on future volumes.