SciFi Book Review: Star Trek: The Shocks of Adversity

Star Trek: The Shocks of Adversity by William Leisner

Synopsis:
Located far beyond the boundaries of explored space, the Goeg Domain is a political union of dozens of planets and races. When the U.S.S. Enterprise arrives in its territory to investigate an interstellar phenomenon, Commander Laspas of the Domain Defense Corps is at first guarded, then fascinated to discover the existence of an alliance of worlds much like his own, and finds a kindred spirit in Captain James T. Kirk. And when the Enterprise is attacked by the Domains enemies, crippling the starships warp capability and leaving its crew facing the prospect of a slow, months-long journey home, the Goeg leader volunteers the help of his own ship, offering to combine the resources of both vessels to bring the Enterprise to a nearby Domain facility to make the necessary repairs.

But what at first seems to be an act of peace and friendship soon turns out to be a devils bargain, as Kirk and the Enterprise crew learn that there are perhaps more differences than similarities between the Federation and the Domain. When the Goegs adversaries strike again, the Enterprise is drawn deeper and inexorably into the conflict, and Kirk begins to realize that they may have allied themselves with the wrong side….

Review:
This is another solid installment in the Original series. Leisner is one of a select group of authors who are consistent with the characters, original story lines, and stay true to the spirit of the various series.

In The Shocks of Adversity, the crew of the Enterprise meets the Goeg under fire. But they soon begin to make friends with the alien crew. They seem to have a lot in common at first glance. But as the crews intermingle, their differences soon surface, creating problems when they meet up with the Goeg’s adversary. With mystery, suspense, intrigue and drama – Star Trek fans will enjoy this one. Both fast-paced and engaging, I was sorry to see it end. I really liked the introduction of the Goeg Domain and hope we can see more of them in the future.