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Star Trek: Lower Decks
Star Trek: Shaxs' Best (and Worst) Day
From the humorous world of Lower Decks come two adventures featuring the U.S.S Cerritos’ security chief doing what he does best, fighting fascists, in these comics based on the hit series!
See the battle to stop the fascist, god-killing clone Kahless II from declaring war on nonfollowers across the galaxy through the eyes of the man, the myth, the legend, Lieutenant Junior Grade Shaxs! See the Bajoran’s beast-mode brawl showcasing all the behind-the-scenes Klingon-zealot butt-kicking in full animated glory!
Then, Shaxs had his best day, but now that the universe has been rewritten by the mad android Lore, he’s about to have his worst. Starfleet has been distorted into a machine of oppression antithetical to everything it once stood for, and Shaxs has been made into the one thing he despises most in the universe: a fascist. Once he's free of Lore’s hold over his mind, it will be up to Shaxs to revert everyone in Starfleet back to their old selves and save the cosmos.
For the first time, get both issues by writer Ryan North and artist Derek Charm in one collection! Shaxs’ Best Day was nominated for a 2024 Eisner Award for Best Single Issue/One-Shot and a 2024 Ringo Award for Best Single Issue or Story.
See the battle to stop the fascist, god-killing clone Kahless II from declaring war on nonfollowers across the galaxy through the eyes of the man, the myth, the legend, Lieutenant Junior Grade Shaxs! See the Bajoran’s beast-mode brawl showcasing all the behind-the-scenes Klingon-zealot butt-kicking in full animated glory!
Then, Shaxs had his best day, but now that the universe has been rewritten by the mad android Lore, he’s about to have his worst. Starfleet has been distorted into a machine of oppression antithetical to everything it once stood for, and Shaxs has been made into the one thing he despises most in the universe: a fascist. Once he's free of Lore’s hold over his mind, it will be up to Shaxs to revert everyone in Starfleet back to their old selves and save the cosmos.
For the first time, get both issues by writer Ryan North and artist Derek Charm in one collection! Shaxs’ Best Day was nominated for a 2024 Eisner Award for Best Single Issue/One-Shot and a 2024 Ringo Award for Best Single Issue or Story.
72 pages, Paperback
First published January 20, 2026
1 person is currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Ryan North
540 books1,608 followersHi, I'm Ryan! I was born in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada in 1980 and since then have written several books. You can read my Wikipedia page for more, or check out my author site at RyanNorth.ca!
I'm the author of the webcomic Dinosaur Comics (that's the comic where the pictures don't change but the words do, it's better than it sounds and I've also done crazy things like turn Shakespeare into a choose-your-own-path adventure, write a comic for Marvel about a girl with all the powers of a squirrel, or mess up walking my dog so badly it made the news.
I'm working on more stuff as we speak, hopefully it's good
I'm the author of the webcomic Dinosaur Comics (that's the comic where the pictures don't change but the words do, it's better than it sounds and I've also done crazy things like turn Shakespeare into a choose-your-own-path adventure, write a comic for Marvel about a girl with all the powers of a squirrel, or mess up walking my dog so badly it made the news.
I'm working on more stuff as we speak, hopefully it's good
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 20, 2025
Starfleet security officer Shaxs of the Lower Decks franchise is fully unleashed in two one-shot specials that tie into two recent crossover events in the IDW line of Star Trek comic books.
On his best day, he's out to destroy the Klingon fundamentalists stirring up a civil war. Gory hand-to-hand combat brings the joy.
On his worst day he snaps out of brainwashing to find he is a fascist enforcing the authoritarian rule of Lore, Data's brother, in an alternate reality. Now part of the resistance, he is tasked with destroying Lore's puppet Starfleet . . . the whole thing. It's completely over-the-top madness, "à la those silly Deadpool/Punisher/etc. Kills the Marvel Universe comics.
Ryan North ads spice to most pages with his trademark snarky footnotes and tucks in several cameos from random Star Trek characters. Fun stuff.
Disclosure: I received access to a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com.
FOR REFERENCE:
Contains material originally published in single magazine form as Star Trek: Day of Blood—Shaxs' Best Day and Star Trek: Lore War—Shaxs' Worst Day.
Contents: [Cover Gallery] / Derek Charm and Robby Cook, illustrators -- Shaxs' Best Day / Ryan North, writer; Derek Charm, illustrator -- [Cover Gallery] / Louie De Martinis, illustrator -- Shaxs' Worst Day / Ryan North, writer; Derek Charm, illustrator -- [Cover Gallery] / Robby Cook, Chris Fenoglio, Derek Charm, and Rahzzah, illustrators
On his best day, he's out to destroy the Klingon fundamentalists stirring up a civil war. Gory hand-to-hand combat brings the joy.
On his worst day he snaps out of brainwashing to find he is a fascist enforcing the authoritarian rule of Lore, Data's brother, in an alternate reality. Now part of the resistance, he is tasked with destroying Lore's puppet Starfleet . . . the whole thing. It's completely over-the-top madness, "à la those silly Deadpool/Punisher/etc. Kills the Marvel Universe comics.
Ryan North ads spice to most pages with his trademark snarky footnotes and tucks in several cameos from random Star Trek characters. Fun stuff.
Disclosure: I received access to a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com.
FOR REFERENCE:
Contains material originally published in single magazine form as Star Trek: Day of Blood—Shaxs' Best Day and Star Trek: Lore War—Shaxs' Worst Day.
Contents: [Cover Gallery] / Derek Charm and Robby Cook, illustrators -- Shaxs' Best Day / Ryan North, writer; Derek Charm, illustrator -- [Cover Gallery] / Louie De Martinis, illustrator -- Shaxs' Worst Day / Ryan North, writer; Derek Charm, illustrator -- [Cover Gallery] / Robby Cook, Chris Fenoglio, Derek Charm, and Rahzzah, illustrators
January 25, 2026
Star Trek: Shaxs — Best and Worst Day — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
A gloriously chaotic Shaxs‑centric romp that captures everything delightful, unhinged, and unexpectedly heartfelt about Lower Decks. This issue leans all the way into the Bajoran bruiser’s larger‑than‑life energy, giving him a spotlight that feels both overdue and wildly entertaining.
The story plays like a day‑in‑the‑life episode turned up to warp 9: one moment Shaxs is reveling in glorious combat, the next he’s wrestling with the emotional fallout of being everyone’s favorite “papa bear” security officer. The tonal whiplash is intentional—and it works. The creative team balances explosive action with character‑driven humor, letting Shaxs be both the unstoppable force and the unexpectedly tender soul fans adore.
What really sells the issue is how authentically Lower Decks it feels. The comedic timing, the exaggerated stakes, the affectionate jabs at Starfleet culture—it all lands. And seeing the Cerritos crew orbit around Shaxs’ personal chaos adds an extra layer of charm. Even in a Shaxs‑focused story, the ensemble energy shines through.
A fun, punchy, and surprisingly sweet entry that celebrates one of the show’s most beloved characters. If you love anything Lower Decks, this one feels like a gift.
Live long and prosper 🖖 🚀🪐📚
A gloriously chaotic Shaxs‑centric romp that captures everything delightful, unhinged, and unexpectedly heartfelt about Lower Decks. This issue leans all the way into the Bajoran bruiser’s larger‑than‑life energy, giving him a spotlight that feels both overdue and wildly entertaining.
The story plays like a day‑in‑the‑life episode turned up to warp 9: one moment Shaxs is reveling in glorious combat, the next he’s wrestling with the emotional fallout of being everyone’s favorite “papa bear” security officer. The tonal whiplash is intentional—and it works. The creative team balances explosive action with character‑driven humor, letting Shaxs be both the unstoppable force and the unexpectedly tender soul fans adore.
What really sells the issue is how authentically Lower Decks it feels. The comedic timing, the exaggerated stakes, the affectionate jabs at Starfleet culture—it all lands. And seeing the Cerritos crew orbit around Shaxs’ personal chaos adds an extra layer of charm. Even in a Shaxs‑focused story, the ensemble energy shines through.
A fun, punchy, and surprisingly sweet entry that celebrates one of the show’s most beloved characters. If you love anything Lower Decks, this one feels like a gift.
Live long and prosper 🖖 🚀🪐📚
January 21, 2026
This was a really enjoyable graphic novel. As a fan of the Lower Decks animation (and Star Trek overall), this was a joy to read. Full of fun, action, and witty humour. Recommended for Trekkies, or just anyone looking for some sci fi fun.
I received an early digital copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
I received an early digital copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
January 21, 2026
Star Trek: Shaxs' Best (and Worst) Day
Shaxs is a complicated officer. Bajoran and Starfleet beliefs combine and crystallise into a new code of honour. He has dedicated his life to being the best representative of both disciplines in his life and he is determined to succeed.
North treads a fine line of comedy and drama to make Shaxs come to life. A superb crossover story.
Shaxs is a complicated officer. Bajoran and Starfleet beliefs combine and crystallise into a new code of honour. He has dedicated his life to being the best representative of both disciplines in his life and he is determined to succeed.
North treads a fine line of comedy and drama to make Shaxs come to life. A superb crossover story.
November 24, 2025
I love Star Trek: Lower Decks. It's one of my top Star Trek shows. This is the second comic in STLD that I read and I enjoyed it very much.
Ryan North really brings the characters to life in "Shaxs Best (and Worst) Day"
I have so much fun reading this comic.
And tell me who is better for the job of kicking some fascist behinds then Shaxs.
Ryan North really brings the characters to life in "Shaxs Best (and Worst) Day"
I have so much fun reading this comic.
And tell me who is better for the job of kicking some fascist behinds then Shaxs.
November 28, 2025
This was honestly just so fun 😂💛
If you love ST Lower Decks, this comic feels exactly like the show as it’s chaotic, loud, dramatic and Shaxs being well, Shaxs.
The art style matches the series perfectly, and the little jokes and side comments at the bottom of the panels were my favourite part. The best day / worst day storyline is ridiculous in that classic Lower Decks way and I loved every second of the unhinged Bajoran rage.
It’s fast, funny and feels like watching an extra episode but I mean a just on paper version
.
If you love ST Lower Decks, this comic feels exactly like the show as it’s chaotic, loud, dramatic and Shaxs being well, Shaxs.
The art style matches the series perfectly, and the little jokes and side comments at the bottom of the panels were my favourite part. The best day / worst day storyline is ridiculous in that classic Lower Decks way and I loved every second of the unhinged Bajoran rage.
It’s fast, funny and feels like watching an extra episode but I mean a just on paper version
.
January 26, 2026
More Lower Decks themed comics from Ryan North and Derek Charm, though this is a weird beast. I am sure Security Chief Shax, the Bajoran anti-fascist fanatic, has his fans. I am fond of him as a supporting character in Lower Decks, a deliberately one-dimensional fighting machine who occasionally softens so our madcap quartet of protagonists can occasionally learn things from him. I can even imagine him having his own comic, all things being equal. This isn't - quite - that. These are two offcuts of larger comic crossovers bundled together because they both star Shax: one a tale of him as a Junior Officer fighting fascism (this is Shax Best Day), and one where he is a minion in the fascistic alternate universe run by Data's twin Lore (and when he regains his proper brain and realise he has been a fascist - well that is Shax Worst Day). Two stories which are parts of other big stories, do not start those stories and do not end those stories. They would both have to be great tales to make this worthwhile.
So I think Ryan North is a big Shax fan. And he is well aware that his chapters of these crossovers are the silly ones, he's writing the comedy comic, that somehow has to tonally fit into the whole. Scrub that, it doesn't have to tonally fit, we have a start point (calamity), an end point (victory) and what happens in between doesn't matter so much. Because in Shax he has an all-action protagonist who is supremely prepared. Much like in his Unbeatable Squirrel Girl run, North takes small bits of continuity and bends them into cunningly clever outcomes (transporters not preserving momentum, bridge viewscreens basically being giant windows). Couple this with his lead characters gung-ho attitude, and North's always chipperly jokey gags at the bottom of each page, this turns out to be a delight. Not least in Shaxs Worst Day where a terrible deus ex machina built into the plot (if the good guys win everything resets and comes back to life), means that he can be recklessly gung-ho and go on a murder spree that might involve blowing up the Earth all for good reasons. And that reason being fighting fascism, which we are reminded of nearly every page. Relentlessly enjoyable stuff.
So I think Ryan North is a big Shax fan. And he is well aware that his chapters of these crossovers are the silly ones, he's writing the comedy comic, that somehow has to tonally fit into the whole. Scrub that, it doesn't have to tonally fit, we have a start point (calamity), an end point (victory) and what happens in between doesn't matter so much. Because in Shax he has an all-action protagonist who is supremely prepared. Much like in his Unbeatable Squirrel Girl run, North takes small bits of continuity and bends them into cunningly clever outcomes (transporters not preserving momentum, bridge viewscreens basically being giant windows). Couple this with his lead characters gung-ho attitude, and North's always chipperly jokey gags at the bottom of each page, this turns out to be a delight. Not least in Shaxs Worst Day where a terrible deus ex machina built into the plot (if the good guys win everything resets and comes back to life), means that he can be recklessly gung-ho and go on a murder spree that might involve blowing up the Earth all for good reasons. And that reason being fighting fascism, which we are reminded of nearly every page. Relentlessly enjoyable stuff.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was happy to receive an ARC for this collection of two previously published comics featuring one of the most intriguing characters of the Lower Decks universe, Shaxs. His backstory is of being a Bajoran resistance fighter and the first half (Shaxs' Best Day) sees him leading a special mission to...defeat fascism. (The first page mentions there's a whole other comic about it - I believe it's referencing its Defiant series. This is a small slice of the entire story.) We get guest appearances by Voyager's B'Elanna Torres and Tom Paris and DS9's Defiant. Shaxs ends up isolated from his team but in true Lower Decks fashion, he finds increasingly crazy ways to defeat his enemies. What makes this story truly fun is the editorial comments at the bottom of each page.
In the second half (Shaxs' Worst Day), Shaxs has been brainwashed into a fascist himself. (This too is from another comic story - Lore's War. Our commenter assigns it as homework.) This time he has one day to wipe out all of Starfleet so the timeline can be reset. Being Shaxs, he finds crazy ways to make this happen. Special appearances in this one are TNS/DS9's Worf, Picard's Liam Shaw, and our beloved Lower Decks spaceship Cerritos with a bearded Brad Boimler. Our loyal editor keeps up the commentary.
I've rated it 3 stars strictly because of all the violence. It's not my thing and there's pages and pages of increasingly creative ways of killing people, with witty commentary from the editor. If it is your thing, you're going to love it. If you're a Shaxs fan, you're going to love it. As for me, I really enjoyed the commentary, our special guests, and our quick looks at the philosophical side of Shaxs, which is my favourite part. Happy Lower Decks continues in the comics.
In the second half (Shaxs' Worst Day), Shaxs has been brainwashed into a fascist himself. (This too is from another comic story - Lore's War. Our commenter assigns it as homework.) This time he has one day to wipe out all of Starfleet so the timeline can be reset. Being Shaxs, he finds crazy ways to make this happen. Special appearances in this one are TNS/DS9's Worf, Picard's Liam Shaw, and our beloved Lower Decks spaceship Cerritos with a bearded Brad Boimler. Our loyal editor keeps up the commentary.
I've rated it 3 stars strictly because of all the violence. It's not my thing and there's pages and pages of increasingly creative ways of killing people, with witty commentary from the editor. If it is your thing, you're going to love it. If you're a Shaxs fan, you're going to love it. As for me, I really enjoyed the commentary, our special guests, and our quick looks at the philosophical side of Shaxs, which is my favourite part. Happy Lower Decks continues in the comics.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3 stars
Star Trek: Shaxs' Best (and Worst) Day is a short trade that collects two stories about fighting fascism. The first one is long before Shaxs works onboard the Cerritos. He's on a mission to stop the threat of oppression on the Klingon homeworld. Kicking fascist asses? That sounds like Shaxs' best day ever. The second story starts with all starfleet being brainwashed to follow Lore. By accident, Shaxs wakes up from this thrall and realises he has become what he has always hated the most, a fascist. He has to save the universe, but first, he has to fight off everyone in Starfleet.
This volume was fun to read. It's silly, it's lighthearted, it's action packed and full of jokes. Having read other Ryan North titles in the Star Trek Lower Decks universe, I think his voice fits the best with a character like Shaxs who just wants to kick ass and mock fascists.
It's a very short read, but I think it does not need to be longer. I know both stories are part of larger storylines but I think Shaxs' involvement is perfect here. He's just a silly guy. Also, this one reads perfectly on digital. I have to say it because more often than not the layout of some comics make reading it digitally a bit cumbersome. However, this one reads perfectly.
Star Trek: Shaxs' Best (and Worst) Day is a short trade that collects two stories about fighting fascism. The first one is long before Shaxs works onboard the Cerritos. He's on a mission to stop the threat of oppression on the Klingon homeworld. Kicking fascist asses? That sounds like Shaxs' best day ever. The second story starts with all starfleet being brainwashed to follow Lore. By accident, Shaxs wakes up from this thrall and realises he has become what he has always hated the most, a fascist. He has to save the universe, but first, he has to fight off everyone in Starfleet.
This volume was fun to read. It's silly, it's lighthearted, it's action packed and full of jokes. Having read other Ryan North titles in the Star Trek Lower Decks universe, I think his voice fits the best with a character like Shaxs who just wants to kick ass and mock fascists.
It's a very short read, but I think it does not need to be longer. I know both stories are part of larger storylines but I think Shaxs' involvement is perfect here. He's just a silly guy. Also, this one reads perfectly on digital. I have to say it because more often than not the layout of some comics make reading it digitally a bit cumbersome. However, this one reads perfectly.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Two issues of Star Trek: Lower Decks comic in one volume, both centred around our favourite Bajoran chief of security, Shax.
In the first issue, Shax is beating up fascists, errr... klingons for 30 pages straight. Very straightforward, not much story, just a fun romp.
In the second issue, set in an alternate universe, Shax has to destroy a fascist Starfleet and does so while killing as many alternate universe characters as possible. There's not much there there either, and I would have enjoyed glimpsing more Lower Decks characters in the casualties, but the final image of what happens for Shax when the fascists loses makes it all worth it.
The art is consistent with the animated series and done efficiently. Some fun frames here and there.
The monologues and dialogues are quite fun too. And, as always, Ryan North's asides add to the overall comedic effect.
I personally preferred the Star Trek: Lower Decks, volume 1-3 collection as it had more Lower Decks characters coming together. This is very much just about Shax doing damage - not as much my cup of tea.
[Advanced Reader Copy obtained through Netgalley]
In the first issue, Shax is beating up fascists, errr... klingons for 30 pages straight. Very straightforward, not much story, just a fun romp.
In the second issue, set in an alternate universe, Shax has to destroy a fascist Starfleet and does so while killing as many alternate universe characters as possible. There's not much there there either, and I would have enjoyed glimpsing more Lower Decks characters in the casualties, but the final image of what happens for Shax when the fascists loses makes it all worth it.
The art is consistent with the animated series and done efficiently. Some fun frames here and there.
The monologues and dialogues are quite fun too. And, as always, Ryan North's asides add to the overall comedic effect.
I personally preferred the Star Trek: Lower Decks, volume 1-3 collection as it had more Lower Decks characters coming together. This is very much just about Shax doing damage - not as much my cup of tea.
[Advanced Reader Copy obtained through Netgalley]
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a short but definitely action-packed comic featuring Shaxs, the security chief of Cherritos. It had two stories and neither featured Cherritos or other crew members—in their true form, at least.
In the first story, Shaxs is having the best day of his life killing Klingon facists. In superhuman feat, he single-handedly saves the day.
In the second story, the entire universe has turned facist after Lore messed up with it. Shaxs is a facist too, and he hates them. Miraculously, he gains his memory of the real universe and sets out to destroy the false one. Literally.
This was a fun, over-the-top addition to Lower Decks comics, but it wasn’t my favourite among those I’ve read. It lacked the silly, nerdy charm of Lower Decks. There are witty endnotes on each page commenting on everything that’s happening and breaking the fourth wall, so that the reader isn’t entirely sure if they’re Shaxs’ or the author’s comments. Art was in the familiar Lower Decks style, full colour and good.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
In the first story, Shaxs is having the best day of his life killing Klingon facists. In superhuman feat, he single-handedly saves the day.
In the second story, the entire universe has turned facist after Lore messed up with it. Shaxs is a facist too, and he hates them. Miraculously, he gains his memory of the real universe and sets out to destroy the false one. Literally.
This was a fun, over-the-top addition to Lower Decks comics, but it wasn’t my favourite among those I’ve read. It lacked the silly, nerdy charm of Lower Decks. There are witty endnotes on each page commenting on everything that’s happening and breaking the fourth wall, so that the reader isn’t entirely sure if they’re Shaxs’ or the author’s comments. Art was in the familiar Lower Decks style, full colour and good.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2025
I have never watched Star Trek: Lower Decks, so I had no clue what I was in for with this graphic novel. The story is good, not great. But it doesn’t have to be for this to work. It is more about the sense of humor and the crazy antics.
The drawing looks consistent with the cartoon from what I can tell. So that is a good thing. What truly makes this graphic novel worth reading is the hilarious writings at the bottom of the page. Many times, I found myself having to go back and look at the panels for details I missed because of things written at the bottom of the page. I also found myself feeling let down on the pages there was not the extra writing at the bottom.
So, basically, read the panels so you can understand the context of the statements at the bottom of the page and enjoy a good chuckle.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
The drawing looks consistent with the cartoon from what I can tell. So that is a good thing. What truly makes this graphic novel worth reading is the hilarious writings at the bottom of the page. Many times, I found myself having to go back and look at the panels for details I missed because of things written at the bottom of the page. I also found myself feeling let down on the pages there was not the extra writing at the bottom.
So, basically, read the panels so you can understand the context of the statements at the bottom of the page and enjoy a good chuckle.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
January 21, 2026
If you’re a fan of Star Trek: Lower Decks, this little gem will feel like a proper treat. Shaxs finally takes the spotlight, and it’s glorious chaos from start to finish. The comic doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it still manages to pack in clever jokes, tiny visual gags, and just enough absurdity to keep you grinning the whole way through. The artwork is bright, lively, and absolutely nails the feel of the animated show, while the extra notes tucked under the panels give you those cheeky little moments that make you pause and chuckle.
The two stories – one delightfully overblown “best day” and one hilariously grim “worst day” – zip along at a cracking pace. You don’t need a encyclopaedic knowledge of Star Trek to enjoy it, though familiarity certainly adds some lovely layers. A fun, fast, and slightly bonkers read that leaves you wanting more of Shaxs’ brand of unrestrained mayhem.
Many thanks to IDW Publishing and NetGalley for providing this advanced copy
The two stories – one delightfully overblown “best day” and one hilariously grim “worst day” – zip along at a cracking pace. You don’t need a encyclopaedic knowledge of Star Trek to enjoy it, though familiarity certainly adds some lovely layers. A fun, fast, and slightly bonkers read that leaves you wanting more of Shaxs’ brand of unrestrained mayhem.
Many thanks to IDW Publishing and NetGalley for providing this advanced copy
January 24, 2026
This volume is a collection of two stories set in major crossover storylines for the various Star Trek crews. Shaxs, the Bajoran security chief for the USS Cerritos, faces off against Klingon cultists and a Starfleet compromised into an evil empire by Lore.
Ryan North is normally a very good writer and I've enjoyed his previous Star Trek work. There's a few genuinely funny lines here and the second story gives Shaxs a chance to weaponize some goofy call-backs from Trek history, but this is a super one-note set of stories where Shaxs runs around punching people and yelling about fascism. I feel like Lower Decks could have done this better than the comic did and it would have been hilarious. It just really didn't work for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and IDW Publishing for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Ryan North is normally a very good writer and I've enjoyed his previous Star Trek work. There's a few genuinely funny lines here and the second story gives Shaxs a chance to weaponize some goofy call-backs from Trek history, but this is a super one-note set of stories where Shaxs runs around punching people and yelling about fascism. I feel like Lower Decks could have done this better than the comic did and it would have been hilarious. It just really didn't work for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and IDW Publishing for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Did Shaxs just get promoted into my favourite Lower Decks character? Yes.
Shaxs' Best (and Worst) Day is a volume of two stories focusing on Shaxs – U.S.S. Cerritos Security Officer. But these stories are not about our Lower Decks crew but are a part of two bigger Star Trek stories. To be honest, I haven't read them, but I still had a lot of fun reading this volume, so this knowledge is not necessary.
Both of Shaxs days are focused on what he loves the most - fighting fascism. In the first story, he fights the Klingon fascists cult, and I have to say I loved how the first page makes it clear that Star Trek fandom is not a place for fascists. And on his Worst Day, the Shaxs wakes up to the realisation that he has become a fascist, and quickly gets to work on defeating the powers that he worked for. Both of these stories are fast-paced and full of fights. It makes it a fun, quick read. Also, I have to say that I love the notes at the end of each page. It's not the first Star Trek comic book I've read that has this, but I don't think I've mentioned how much I like it.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book.
Shaxs' Best (and Worst) Day is a volume of two stories focusing on Shaxs – U.S.S. Cerritos Security Officer. But these stories are not about our Lower Decks crew but are a part of two bigger Star Trek stories. To be honest, I haven't read them, but I still had a lot of fun reading this volume, so this knowledge is not necessary.
Both of Shaxs days are focused on what he loves the most - fighting fascism. In the first story, he fights the Klingon fascists cult, and I have to say I loved how the first page makes it clear that Star Trek fandom is not a place for fascists. And on his Worst Day, the Shaxs wakes up to the realisation that he has become a fascist, and quickly gets to work on defeating the powers that he worked for. Both of these stories are fast-paced and full of fights. It makes it a fun, quick read. Also, I have to say that I love the notes at the end of each page. It's not the first Star Trek comic book I've read that has this, but I don't think I've mentioned how much I like it.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book.
Read
November 13, 2025I like a cheesy graphic novel and this is in the perfect cheesy graphic novel style so I thought I would give it a go. But it just wasn't for me. I know nothing about Star Trek so that might have been the first issue and I don't even know who Shak is. So warning if you have never watched Star Trek there is no backstory expcept for small blurb at the bottom of each page and the characterisation that would be crucial if you haven't watched the show only comes much later in the graphic novel.
However, if you do know Star Trek it is the perfect amount of cheesy, adaptated graphic novel.
Thanks to #netgalley for this E-ARC.
However, if you do know Star Trek it is the perfect amount of cheesy, adaptated graphic novel.
Thanks to #netgalley for this E-ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoyed this graphic novel consisting of two separate stories. I did find the stories to be very silly, but in a way that I liked and that felt similar to the show “Star Trek: Lower Decks”. Aside from the story, the art was good and I loved the author's comments at the bottom of the pages. I did feel, however, that I was missing something, and discovered that these stories are related to other graphic novels that I hadn’t read. I only found out about them through the author’s comments. Nonetheless, the graphic novels were worthwhile reading and it was time well-spent. Thank you to Netgalley and IDW Publishing for the advance reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“I will fight fascists until my last breath..”
Shax is one of my favorite characters of the more recent Star Trek series: Lower Decks, so of course I was highly enthused to be able to read about his Best and Worst Day.
In a universe altered by Lore, Shax has become everything he hates: a fascist. Once he is hit with Kahless II's bat’leth, he reverts to his normal fascist hating self. What begins as his worst day then transitions into his best day. Shax realizes that he can fight all the fascists with no regard for all the killing since the universe will revert to its usual ways...once he saves the universe.
#ThxNetGalley #RyanNorth #DerekCharm #StarTrekShaxsBestandWorstDay
Shax is one of my favorite characters of the more recent Star Trek series: Lower Decks, so of course I was highly enthused to be able to read about his Best and Worst Day.
In a universe altered by Lore, Shax has become everything he hates: a fascist. Once he is hit with Kahless II's bat’leth, he reverts to his normal fascist hating self. What begins as his worst day then transitions into his best day. Shax realizes that he can fight all the fascists with no regard for all the killing since the universe will revert to its usual ways...once he saves the universe.
#ThxNetGalley #RyanNorth #DerekCharm #StarTrekShaxsBestandWorstDay
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was overall a fun read that let's Shaxs take the spotlight and shows more of his adventures.
Admittedly, as someone not engrained in the Star Trek lore, I found it difficult to understand what exactly was going on at times. However, seeing as both stories do not really have that much of a plot, but are mostly just focused on Shaxs fighting against fascists, it is still amusing to read. As always, I especially enjoyed the snarky footnotes.
I would not recommend this to everybody, but for real Trekkies it is definitely a treat.
Thank you to IDW Publishing and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Admittedly, as someone not engrained in the Star Trek lore, I found it difficult to understand what exactly was going on at times. However, seeing as both stories do not really have that much of a plot, but are mostly just focused on Shaxs fighting against fascists, it is still amusing to read. As always, I especially enjoyed the snarky footnotes.
I would not recommend this to everybody, but for real Trekkies it is definitely a treat.
Thank you to IDW Publishing and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 27, 2026
Book 017 of 365 ~ 2026
🌟🌟🌟🌟
What a hoot.. was a fun read but I am still pro O.G so I enjoyed it but a fun read is a fun read...
I received a complimentary copy of the ebook. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#book017of365 #amreading #netgalley tbrpile instareads readstagram reading bookreview bookreviewer booklover booksAreLife booksForTheWin booknerds thisbookfairyisreading bookstagram bookstagrammer bookstagramfeature bookshelf booksofinstagram bookish bookworm goodreads booklovers bookaddict theSGbookfairyReads #theSGtrekkiereads bookaholic #bookchallenge2026 reviews lovebooks
🌟🌟🌟🌟
What a hoot.. was a fun read but I am still pro O.G so I enjoyed it but a fun read is a fun read...
I received a complimentary copy of the ebook. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#book017of365 #amreading #netgalley tbrpile instareads readstagram reading bookreview bookreviewer booklover booksAreLife booksForTheWin booknerds thisbookfairyisreading bookstagram bookstagrammer bookstagramfeature bookshelf booksofinstagram bookish bookworm goodreads booklovers bookaddict theSGbookfairyReads #theSGtrekkiereads bookaholic #bookchallenge2026 reviews lovebooks
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for this arc.
It was good to be back in the Star Trek Lower Deck's world.
This was a very fast read for me. I need to say it will be better for me to read these in physical form, but it was good and humourous non the less.
Shax is the character that presents so much drama and power if he wants to, and it was refreshing, to see that he is the main character here, he is the one who can save the univers.
I liked the fact that this comic had 2 short comics in one. The notes of the authors was the best part of this comic. I liked it overall. Thank you again
It was good to be back in the Star Trek Lower Deck's world.
This was a very fast read for me. I need to say it will be better for me to read these in physical form, but it was good and humourous non the less.
Shax is the character that presents so much drama and power if he wants to, and it was refreshing, to see that he is the main character here, he is the one who can save the univers.
I liked the fact that this comic had 2 short comics in one. The notes of the authors was the best part of this comic. I liked it overall. Thank you again
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Shaxs gets his own comic adventure! This was so fun. I literally laughed out loud on multiple occasions. My favorite features were the little asides from the author at the bottom of the page. It definitely kept the spirit of the Lower Decks TV show. The humor was perfectly on brand. The artwork held the charm of the show as well, very colorful and ridiculous in the best way. This really is the love letter to Star Trek fans it was meant to be. I loved this one.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC review copy.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My favourite comic in many years. Shaxs, best know as the lovable but intense Bajoran security chief from Star Trek: Lower Decks, has been dragged into his worse nightmare: being the hand of a fascist political regime. What follows in the depressing realization and the triumphant redemption told in pitch perfect Lower Deck style making full use of the comic medium. I laughed, I cried, I was moved in ways that comics. A must read for any Lower Decks fan.
This comic was provided as an advanced reader copy through #NetGalley.
This comic was provided as an advanced reader copy through #NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Join Chief of Security, Shaxs, on his very best day - andshis very worst - as he destroys fascists and heroically saves the universe with his heroic heroics.
From the team who brought you the Star Trek Lower Decks comic, we have another absurd, over-the-top adventure. This is a fun read , with lots of asides from the authors as they poke fun at the genre.
The book contains two standalone adventures - both the best and the worst days - that can be read independently of any other Star Trek media (but it does help)!
~This is a Netgalley ARC. All opinions are my own ~
From the team who brought you the Star Trek Lower Decks comic, we have another absurd, over-the-top adventure. This is a fun read , with lots of asides from the authors as they poke fun at the genre.
The book contains two standalone adventures - both the best and the worst days - that can be read independently of any other Star Trek media (but it does help)!
~This is a Netgalley ARC. All opinions are my own ~
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Shaxs is back. Fascists beware. Fans of "Star Trek: Lower Decks" are in for a treat with this book, in which the afore mentioned Shaxs leaves a swath of ultra-violent and cartoony destruction in his wake as he fights fascism and takes on the might of the Klingon empire and Starfleet. This is pure unmitigated and delightful chaos as only the creators of "Lower Decks" can deliver.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, IDW Publishing for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, IDW Publishing for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 15, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC.
I've watched the entire show and read all of the previous comics so I was very excited to get a copy of this.
The comic was the same style as the previous comics, still very funny. They always really capture the essence of the TV show.
I'd absolutely recommend this to any fan of the show, but especially to fans of Shaxs (although I'm not sure how any fans of the show wouldn't be fans of Shaxs)!
I've watched the entire show and read all of the previous comics so I was very excited to get a copy of this.
The comic was the same style as the previous comics, still very funny. They always really capture the essence of the TV show.
I'd absolutely recommend this to any fan of the show, but especially to fans of Shaxs (although I'm not sure how any fans of the show wouldn't be fans of Shaxs)!
November 20, 2025
Star Trek: Lower Decks is my second favorite Trek show; it has an irreverent, but still affectionate, humor that just clicks with me, and author Ryan North nailed that humor in Shaxs' Best (and Worst) Day.
In this short collection we see Shaxs kicking fascist butt in two wonderfully outlandish adventures. Do the stories make a lot of sense? Nope. Are they great fun for Lower Decks fans who want a laugh? Absolutely.
Received via NetGalley.
In this short collection we see Shaxs kicking fascist butt in two wonderfully outlandish adventures. Do the stories make a lot of sense? Nope. Are they great fun for Lower Decks fans who want a laugh? Absolutely.
Received via NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley for an advanced copy!
Ryan North returns to Lower Decks (with appearances from lots of other Star Trek shows) with this comic book tie-in to the hilarious Star Trek animated comedy, focusing on the character of Shax, that wonderful warrior, and uses him as a mouth piece to unload about some strong feelings North is clearly having about today's politics. Loved it.
December 22, 2025
I enjoy most things Star Trek. Admit idly though I have not watched much Star Trek Lower Decks however I did enjoy reading this combination of 2 stories about Shax. I also Thought that the Illistrations really brought the story to life better then just writing this as a Novella type story. Way to go .
I received a copy of this Graphic Novel in advance Via NetGalley. Thank you to NetGalley and the Author and publisher for that.
I received a copy of this Graphic Novel in advance Via NetGalley. Thank you to NetGalley and the Author and publisher for that.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this DRC from NetGalley.
I enjoy the tone of the Lower Decks comics; they're very lighthearted and fun. The comments at the bottom of the pages are funny little fourth wall breaks. There are two short, fast-paced stories included in this one, both about Shaxs fighting against fascists. I haven't read the other comics that apparently happen concurrently with this one, but I still enjoyed it even without the context.
I enjoy the tone of the Lower Decks comics; they're very lighthearted and fun. The comments at the bottom of the pages are funny little fourth wall breaks. There are two short, fast-paced stories included in this one, both about Shaxs fighting against fascists. I haven't read the other comics that apparently happen concurrently with this one, but I still enjoyed it even without the context.
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