Written by Kirsten Beyer and Mike Johnson

Art by Angel Hernandez

IDW Comics, out now

With the Romulan empire due to wiped out by a supernova, the USS Verity, under the command of Admiral Picard, launch a Federation rescue mission to an outpost on the edge of the blast zone.

This three-part precursor to CBS All Access’ new Star Trek: Picard show is a great way to build up momentum and fill in a little back story, without giving too much away. Written by Picard Supervising Producer Kirsten Beyer and frequent Star Trek writer Mike Johnson, this limited series is in safe hands.

Johnson is not only co-writing the ongoing Blade Runner 2019 comic book series, but also co-wrote Star Trek: Nero, Countdown and Countdown to Darkness. He also co-wrote the Star Trek: Discovery Annual and Succession series with Beyer, meaning that they come to these comics with their A-game and a host of Star Trek references. What’s particularly enjoyable is that we get to meet new characters who are featured in the show, such as Michelle Hurd’s first officer, Lieutenant Commander Raffi Mussiker, and Romulans like Orla Brady’s Laris.

When Picard and Mussiker beam down to Yuyat Beta to plan the evacuation of the 10,000 inhabitants, they are surprised on many levels. Not only is the resident governor uncharacteristically helpful and sharing information, the planet also has an indigenous, enslaved population who the Romulans are prepared to leave behind to meet their fiery doom. Events escalate and Starfleet are on the back foot again with a countdown clock ticking.

Verdict: A cracking introduction to the Picard universe that adds some much-appreciated context to the upcoming show, featuring authentic art and dialogue for our favourite Starfleet leader. Welcome back, Jean-Luc. 8/10

Nick Joy