Review by Frank Plowright

Over two previous stories set in the Mirror Universe writers David and Scott Tipton have built up a beefy role for Lieutenant Howard Barclay, who’s not actually featured in many Next Generation TV episodes. His violently ambitious character was seen at the end of Through the Mirror transferring from his own universe to the genuine Enterprise. Terra Incognita picks up almost immediately afterward.

The Enterprise is sent to aid a malfunctioning starship on a diplomatic mission, and it’s decided they should transport Vulcan negotiators to a peace conference. The writers pull a clever deception, directing readers to believe the main thrust of the plot is one matter, when actually it’s a succession of individual stories with a connecting thread. If reading all three of their Mirror Universe stories (which you can as Mirror Universe Collection) it’s noticeable how different characters move in and out of the spotlight with only Captain Picard almost ever-present. There’s greater opportunity for that within the format of Terra Incognita, and this time the talents of Deanna Troi and William Riker are essential, while there’s some diversion into Vulcan traditions.

After the unsatisfactory five different artists over the previous Mirror Universe graphic novel, Tony Shasteen drawing the opening five chapters is a relief, and he’s good, if a little shy of anything other than basic backgrounds. He brings the cast to life with sparkling likenesses and provides personalities rather than just shopping in and manipulating pictures. Carlos Nieto draws the final chapter, also precise and efficient, but with figures a little posed in places.

As in earlier books, the Tiptons make good use of holodeck technology to surprise, and although Terra Incognita is episodic overall, the continuing plot threads remain compulsive. There’s a different tone to each episode, and readers are likely to respond best to the one featuring their favourite character. However, the unexpected societal complications of a planet offering the manufacture of new technology stands out. Some episodes are overly wordy, though, especially the explanations needed to save a dying race. In the end a surprising and pleasing redemption arc plays out.

The Tiptons aren’t yet done with this cast, and they’re back for Star Trek: The Mirror War.