Are you ready to read about some random adventures revolving around this fabled universe?  Should you even spend the coin to pick up this winter re-printing?  Read on to find out.

The official description from IDW:

Explore the amazing worlds of Star Trek through our continuing series of 100-page spectaculars! How do you deal with killing a legend? Find out in the story of Captain Harriman, the notorious commander of the Enterprise when Captain James T. Kirk was lost and presumed dead. Guest starring Dr. McCoy! Discover the devious inner workings of the Romulan military! Re-enter the Mirror Universe as Kirk’s Doppelgänger plots to overthrow his superior… Captain Pike—And more!

Four unique tales each take the Star Trek mythos on on a rollicking ride that’s sure to please current fans and might even succeed in attracting some new comers.  From the goofiness of the mirror universe to the aftermath of Star Trek: Generations this mammoth release has a lot to offer, even to any beleaguered trekkies out there that are currently waiting for their proverbial space exploring fix.

There’s a lot packed into these romps as each author charts a course into some rather unique corners of this long-lived franchise.  Whether it’s Marc Guggenheim plunging headfirst into some striking emotional pathos or Scott Tipton offering up a dark rise to power, the end result is that we have several riveting page turners that would be well worth your money and time in their own right.  If you’re looking to explore the Romulans or even the Klingons no need to worry because this comic book comes packed with two thick stories handled by Ian Edgington and Keith R.A. DeCandido, that realize an engaging experience even if they ultimately fall short of offering anything that’s truly unique.

Overall the artwork offered in this compilation is top notch.  From the photo-realistic work of Andrew Currie to the distinctive structure of J.K. Woodward each pencil stroke offers something to their own narrative that makes them perfectly suited for their specific story.  Yes there are times where some of the panels can look a bit off but for the most part these are minor moments that do little to hamper the overall fun of these brief voyages.

The Star Trek 100 Page Winter Spectacular 2012 is an absolutely engaging release that offers stories with substance.  Add to that the strong dialogue and beautiful visualizations therein and it easily earns a recommendation.

4/5