Star Trek: The Original Series: The Latter Fire by James Swallow
Synopsis:
The five-year mission of the Starship Enterprise has brought the vessel and her crew to the forefront of an important first contact situation. Under the command of Captain James T. Kirk, the ship is heading to the planet Syhaar Prime in the Beta Quadrant—the home world of an alien civilization preparing to take its first steps on to the galactic stage. One year earlier, the Enterprise came across a badly damaged Syhaari explorer vessel drifting in deep space. In collaboration with the explorer’s captain, Kirk and his crew were able to restore the ship to full function and send it on its way. And now, as the Syhaari display rapid technological advances made over the past year, hard questions must be asked. Did the Enterprise crew leak advanced technology or information to the Syhaari during their first encounter, in total violation of the Prime Directive?
Review:
Chekov steps off the Enterprise as a new, unique crew member joins. I really enjoyed the new character and only wish there had been more development or a backstory. However, the story was certainly entertaining and engaging. I read it in one day, as it was very hard to put down. The mystery and suspense surrounding the Syhaari and a sudden attack led to an intriguing premise. And as the mystery unfolded, the suspense only intensified.
This is a fantastic new adventure from a solid science fiction author. Fans of the original crew will definitely want to pick this one up.