There’s about a half a dozen writers I look forward to their new projects. Jonathan Hickman is one of those writers. East of West #1, his latest series, hits shelves this week. Published by Image Comics, East of West is Hickman’s latest creator owned series.

The things that divide us are stronger than the things that unite us. A Sci-Fi Western set in a dystopian America where all hope for the future rests in the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse…who just happen to be trying to kill the President of the United States.

The series tarts off in a world that seems familiar. A weird-west history that shifts at some point into what’s clearly not the world we know. This is a futuristic western and has that vibe driven deep in the story telling and look.

The first issue is steeped in mystery. We’re given the introduction of the Four Horsemen, though not much in ways of specifics. This mystical world and a prophesy is laid out and then there’s a part that cements us in the “Western” setting. None of these are full stories, they’re each a slice of the greater, which is a bit frustrating, because each is so interesting, I walked away feeling like I didn’t get enough of each.

Where some series do this sort of build and you’re left thinking “that’s it?” or “this is frustratingly slow,” Hickman packs it in with each scene of this first issue. It’s fast paced and all entertaining. You want to find out more, which is both great and frustrating at the same time.

Nick Dragotta‘s art too is a perfect fit for the series. The world and character design vibe perfectly with Hickman’s writing style and story. It feels like a western, but with a futuristic twist. There’s some great stuff here, including the future Oval Office and White House.

I’m expecting some huge things when this series debuts. Expect a sell out of the first issue, so do yourself a favor, and make sure this debut issue is in your pullbox.

Story: Jonathan Hickman Art: Nick Dragotta

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review