2009 Book #4: Star Trek: The Next Generation: Before Dishonor (mild spoilers)
I've read Peter David's work for years. Whether it be Star Trek, comics, or other writings, he has always produced eminently enjoyable work, though as with any writer, some of it is better than others. He hit a home run with Before Dishonor.
Building on the past few novels, especially Resistance, David has created a suspenseful story of what happens when the Borg go beyond what they have ever been imagined to do. There is real sacrifice in the episode, and the biggest battle with the Borg since Wolf 359 in the TNG episode, The Best of Both Worlds. If you thought the Borg were frightening before, that was nothing, folks.
Even with this, David manages to inject humor and great character moments. Characters that you might not expect show up. Also, as the battle with the Borg is building, the differences between the crew of the Enterprise explode, threatening the mission at hand.
While some have protested the darkness that has been explored in the Star Trek univers lately, I find it to be a very useful literary device. Yes, the Star Trek future is bright, but the forces of darkness will always challenge the light. The real task is to keep them back by working to help the light burn brighter.
This is easily my favorite of the Star Trek books that I've read this year : 5 out of 5.
Building on the past few novels, especially Resistance, David has created a suspenseful story of what happens when the Borg go beyond what they have ever been imagined to do. There is real sacrifice in the episode, and the biggest battle with the Borg since Wolf 359 in the TNG episode, The Best of Both Worlds. If you thought the Borg were frightening before, that was nothing, folks.
Even with this, David manages to inject humor and great character moments. Characters that you might not expect show up. Also, as the battle with the Borg is building, the differences between the crew of the Enterprise explode, threatening the mission at hand.
While some have protested the darkness that has been explored in the Star Trek univers lately, I find it to be a very useful literary device. Yes, the Star Trek future is bright, but the forces of darkness will always challenge the light. The real task is to keep them back by working to help the light burn brighter.
This is easily my favorite of the Star Trek books that I've read this year : 5 out of 5.