Killing Blow: Errand of Vengeance Book Two (Star Trek The (Star Trek)

Killing Blow: Errand of Vengeance Book Two (Star Trek The Original Series)

074344602X

Star Trek

01 August, 2002

This is a reasonably good novel, but not nearly as good as the first of the series. For one thing, it is less able to stand on its own merit without reading the rest of the series than the first was; for another, the writing/editing was sloppier. There are a few of the typical mass-market paperback errors, which I don't remember seeing in the first book, things like saying "seceded" when "succeeded" was intended, or "face" instead of "fact". Also, there is one place where Kell is referred to by his brother Karel's name, and one where Karel is referred to as Kell. These are minor quibbles, but still annoying, and when added to the fact that the book suffers from a mild case of "middle-book-itis", the bane of second books in trilogies, it keeps it from being rated quite so highly as the first. Still, it is an enjoyable read, and the characterization, plot, dialogue, and pacing are all quite good. Mr. Ryan has continued his fine saga in this book. A very good read, and if you're a hardcore Trek fan (and I can't stress this enough) the entire series is a MUST READ. Mr. Ryan masterfully ties in many stories from many original series episodes and characters. Trek fans always love a familiar reference, and Mr. Ryan passes out plenty. But more importanly, they're neatly giftwrapped in an extremely well-written book and finely crafted story lines. The second book in this trilogy is even more action packed than book one, with more exciting battles and heroic deeds, but the cracks also begin to show. While the continuity with the first book is maintained there are more technical and historical flaws in this work which to me weakens the plot slightly (*that's the trouble when you are an obsessed, nit-picking fan like me !!!). The Star Trek regulars are present but only Kirk and Spock make any significant contribution to the story, and there are fewer references to the original series events. The main character "Kell", is starting to lose his appeal which I suspect is to set up his end in the last book. It is ironic that as he becomes more "human" he becomes less interesting !!! However the thing that bothers me about this novel is the breakdown of logical storytelling elements, as this suggests the plot is being stretched too far. I have however rated this book the same as book one because although the first one had a more solid story base, this one pumps up the action to an even higher level. So if you're into Star Trek that gets the old pulse racing, this one is for you !!!

Doors into Chaos (Star Trek The Next Generation: Gateways, Book 3)

0743418565

Star Trek

28 August, 2001

I've read the TNG, DS9, New Frontier, and Voyager Gateways books as well as the corresponding portions of the 7th book. And of those the TNG book is easily the best of the series. Yes it does start out a tad slow, but to me this building of the story is what makes it so great. The author goes out of his way to make sure you completely understand the seriousness of the gateway situation. I also enjoyed the fact that this one had several different things happening all at once with the crew basically split up to accomplish the goal. In addition I liked the nod to Voyager with the Nyrians that were lost in the Alpha Quadrant. The purpose for my title "There's Something About TNG" is that when it comes to book series that span them all TNG seems to get the best stories. I also enjoyed TNG's Section 31 book the best of the Section 31 series. Of the five I've read (excluding Challenger), this was the most disappointing Gateways book. I am a huge TNG fan, but this book was very slow. I enjoyed Troi as Captain, but that was about it. And the crew of her ship had some personality. This book and the Deep Space 9 version, were the most integrated of the Gateways series. Between the two, most of the Gateways story is told, prior to the conclusion in book 7 and you will definitely want to read the conclusion. If you like a series, read these two for sure. You may not need to read Voyager, or New Frontier. If you don't like a series, these are the two to avoid. See my review on the others. As my review title suggest this one for me was the best so far. But book 4 is turning out to be just as good and maybe even better. I have to finish to be sure. Book one and especially two were major disappointments. Two was confusing!!! I know most people haven't rated this book well but the story was to me a lot easier to follow compared to book 2 and the characters much more realistic to the Star Trek universe. There are many references to past episodes even to other Trek books that blend in wonderfully. The story helps advance major story lines that belong to other series too. I also enjoyed the many species that are involved and for me well written. It was great to read this book and reminded me why I like TNG so much.