Rori Lane is trying to start a new life when she reunites with her mother in Japan, but ancient creatures lurking in the shadows of Tokyo sense something hidden deep within her, threatening everything she holds dear. Can Rori unlock the secrets of her power before it’s too late? This week debuts Wayward, the newest series from the talented writer Jim Zub who’s joined by artists Steve Cummings and John Rauch.

Going in to the supernatural spectacle I wasn’t sure what to expect. I actually stayed away from the descriptions, so I didn’t know what the series was about. I went in expecting one thing as the story progressed, and came out the other end with something completely different.

The first issue is a solid set up, firmly introducing us to Rori, and throwing us into the deep end as far as the supernatural world she’s going to be involved with. There’s definitely a Buffy the Vampire Slayer vibe to it all, but some of the imagery reminds me of the video game Mirror’s Edge. The combination is intriguing…. and entertaining.

A lot of that Mirror’s Edge vibe comes courtesy of Cummings and Rauch. The visual imagery has some interesting queues, especially to see how long they keep it up for, and what it all means. The style itself is solid, though I wish the Japanese individuals looked a bit more so. There’s a slight hint, but this is more of an anime style without the large doe eyes. Otherwise, the art really is beautiful to look at with fantastic coloring.

The first issue does a great job of introducing us to Rori, and it sets up a lot of mysteries that will be explained as the series progresses. There’s a lot thrown at us, especially in the latter part of the book, and that’s not completely explained, nor does it need to be. All of it is intriguing, and seems like it could be a lot of fun to explore. Wayward #1 is a solid debut, bringing us a new female heroine to cheer for. Is it the next coming of Buffy? That we’ll have to wait and see.

Story: Jim Zub Art: Steve Cummings and John Rauch
Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy