Star Trek: Voyager: The Eternal Tide by Kirsten Beyer
Synopsis:
As the Voyager fleet continues its exploration of the Delta Quadrant, investigating the current status of sectors formerly controlled by the Borg becomes a key priority. Two of the fleet’s special mission vessels, the U.S.S. Galen and U.S.S. Demeter, are left at New Talax to aid Neelix’s people, while the Voyager, Quirinal, Esquiline, Hawking, and Curie do a systematic search for any remnants of the Borg or Caeliar, even as the Achilles moves to a location central enough to offer aid to the exploring vessels as needed. As this critical mission begins, Fleet Commander Afsarah Eden, who has shared what little she knows of her mysterious past with Captain Chakotay, begins to experience several more “awakenings” as she encounters artifacts and places that make her feel connected to her long-lost home. She is reluctant to allow these visions to overshadow the mission, and this becomes increasingly difficult as time passes. But in the midst of this growing crisis, no one in the fleet could anticipate the unexpected return of one of Starfleet’s most revered leaders—a return that could hold the very fate of the galaxy in the balance.
Review:
Angry Voyager fans, rejoice! I guess it’s not a spoiler to say that Janeway is back. Though, I won’t go into details, let’s just say a certain Q is involved. Any story involving the Q has my attention. And this was no exception. We get a brief look into the lives of Tom Paris, Torres, and Kim. But the story mainly revolves around Janeway and Chakotay (being the Captain of Voyager now) and Fleet Commander Eden, whose mysterious past finally comes to light. The final reveal of her history is a bit strange, but satisfying. Seven is personally affected by their latest mission with her Borg past, while dealing with a new romantic interest. And few old friends make brief but memorable appearances.
The Q storyline was the highlight for me. And the Fleet’s adventures were well-paced and exciting. The story ends with a climactic encounter and a satisfying finale. With the return of Janeway, it will be interesting to see where authors take the character in regards to Voyager. With plenty of suspense, drama, heartbreak, and mystery – this latest Voyager installment is well worth the wait.