Writer: Mike Johnson

Artists: Tony Shasteen

Publisher: IDW Publishing

We join Captain Kirk as he sits in the Captain’s Chair of the Endeavor. What? Endeavor…umm, say what, again? You are not misreading that, and there are very good reasons. This story begins after the events of the Star Trek Beyond film. If you haven’t seen the film yet, what’s wrong with you? Never fear, I won’t spoil things too much here, but, seriously, go watch the movie and get the full background for this continuing story. Bill me for the popcorn. Suffice it to say, Kirk and the gang have made it necessary for Starfleet to give our crew a new ride…again.

Mike Johnson wastes no time getting us right in the mood and feel of Star Trek. He has a fine grasp of the characters, and how they speak, act, and react. It’s almost a seamless transition from the film (see it already!), which I re-watched just before reading this issue, into this inaugural issue of a new ongoing series. Johnson also has a great understanding of what makes a good Star Trek storyline. He weaves the personal lives of our favorite crew with the action and settings of their temporary homes while awaiting the Enterprise to be completed in a very natural way.

The crew is separated after the events of Beyond, and we get a nice glimpse of their individual personalities. Some are on retreat home, some took new positions on other ships for the time being. This last bit offers us some nice Easter Eggs for attentive Trekkies as we recognize some names that have come before in the TOS show and films, lending a very comfortable and exciting feel to the story. The story has a definite movement towards action, and it looks to be an irresistible tale.

The artwork by Caltsoldas & Shasteen is very easy on the eye. They work well together, giving us some nice set shot panels, and expressive features on our players’ faces. In true Star Trek fashion, they are not afraid to temper the deep black of space with bright splashes of color and detailed ships, or uniforms. We are right at home with the artwork and don’t even realize we aren’t watching this on TV as they make the panels seem like they have movement with their active positions and smooth transitions.

I must say, this title surprised me. I was all ready to hate seeing Kirk on a different bridge. I mean, really? Come on? Give a guy a little warning first, buy me a drink or something. But, the combo of Johnson’s well-written script, and Caltsoldas & Shasteen’s artwork made for a wonderful, and satisfying, read. I think my pull list, much to my wallet’s dismay, has just gotten one title larger.

Writing: 4/5

Artwork: 4/5

Overall: 4/5