Gizmoe Press; $40 (crowdfunded)

Writer-artist Howard Chaykin’s adaptation of John Benteen’s 1976 western novel Fargo is the first of a proposed series, and if they all have the energy and spirit of this one, it’s going to be a very fun ride.

Weathered, relentless, tried and tested, Neal Fargo is something akin to a force of nature. Driven only by his own code – which doesn’t always put him on the right side of the law – he takes a job to help out a small railroad operator being undermined by a much larger competitor. He’s a fast draw – maybe the fastest – and doesn’t mince words or actions when he sets out to take on the hired guns of the bigger operation.

This 136-page hardcover is an action-packed tour de force by Chaykin – clearly in his element here – and colorist Yen Nitro. The pacing, dialogue, and storytelling are all on point. Not only has Chaykin not lost a step, fans of his work ranging from American Flagg! to The Shadow will find him in his prime.

The beautifully produced hardcover also includes a selection of pin-ups by artists including Ron Garney, Michael Wm. Kaluta, Dan Panosian, Eduardo Riso, and Walter Simonson, among others, as well as some insightful background material on the adaptation process.

The only sad note in this wonderful project is that Butch Guice was slated to draw the next volume (with Chaykin scripting). His recent, sudden passing means that won’t happen. At least we get to see his version of Fargo in the pin-up gallery.

– J.C. Vaughn