Review: Tender Is the Flesh, Novel by Agustina Bazterrica, 2017

Tender Is the Flesh, Novel by Agustina Bazterrica, 2017
I rate this translated novel 4.75 out of 5 stars.

 A Disturbing Reflection of Our Humanity: A Review of "Tender Is The Flesh"

 

Agustina Bazterrica’s award-winning novel "Tender Is The Flesh" is a bone-chilling exploration of a dystopian future where cannibalism has become the norm, and human meat is not only legal but in high demand. The protagonist, Marcos, works in a slaughterhouse, a job that requires a cold detachment from the horrors that unfold around him daily. Much like the "gestation crates" and "insemination phases" of our industrialized farming world, this novel utilizes euphemisms to mask the ghastly truth, turning humans into mere "heads" on the meat circuit.

 

Despite his gruesome profession, Marcos is a character with whom readers can sympathize. This is a man who has lost a child, whose wife has retreated to her mother's house to grieve in isolation, and whose father is slipping into dementia. His personal struggles, layered upon the societal horrors around him, make him a relatable figure in an otherwise alien world. Yet, a shocking act towards the end of the novel abruptly severs this sympathy, a twist that will leave readers stunned and questioning the very nature of humanity.

 

The world Bazterrica constructs feels eerily familiar, not far removed from our current existence. The normalization of cannibalism, though initially shocking, mirrors our society's acceptance of morally questionable practices. In this sense, "Tender Is The Flesh" is a thought-provoking critique of our collective ethical complacency.

 

Bazterrica's clever use of language to obscure horrifying realities is another standout feature of this novel. Like Orwell's "1984" and our modern-day slang, the narrative demonstrates how we speak the unspeakable, constructing a world where "special meat" is a euphemism for human flesh, and a human hand served on a bed of lettuce is referred to as an "Upper Extremity".

 

The novel's unsettling blend of revulsion and arousal adds to its visceral impact. Scenes intertwining sex with butchery are particularly disturbing, challenging the reader’s comfort zone and highlighting the stark extremities of this dystopian world.

 

With "Tender Is The Flesh", Bazterrica has crafted a chilling, thought-provoking narrative that holds a mirror to our society, forcing us to confront our ethical complacency and to consider the importance of preserving our collective human decency. This book is not for the faint-hearted, but its ability to provoke discomfort and contemplation is the power of Bazterrica's storytelling. It's a novel that will undoubtedly linger in your mind long after the final page.

 

#AgustinaBazterrica #TenderIsTheFlesh #MoralityInDystopia #ShockingReads #HiddenReality #Cannibalism #Dystopia, #DisturbingReads

Review: What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher, 2022

What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher, 2022
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What Moves the Dead, by T. Kingfisher, 2022
I rate the novella 5 out of 5 stars.

 

"What Moves the Dead," is a haunting reimagination of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher." It’s a tale that begins quietly, like a whispering wind rustling through the desolate landscape of the Usher estate, but progressively escalates into a crescendo of horror that is as riveting as it is terrifying.

 

Anchoring this narrative is the non-binary war veteran Alex Easton, an embodiment of representation in the literary world that is long overdue. Easton's character, a lieutenant with a unique set of pronouns (ka/kan), provides an intriguingly fresh perspective, as we delve into the layered complexities of gender identity, trauma, and societal norms. The inclusion of this character alone is a bold stride in the literary world.

 

However, it's not just the compelling characters that make this novella a must-read. The setting itself, with its brooding quietness, feels like an additional character — a silent observer adding to the eerie ambiance. Kingfisher masterfully crafts an environment that is not just a background but a vital participant in the story. It carries a feeling of being simultaneously rooted in the past and existing out of time, adding to the sensation of unease that lingers throughout the narrative.

 

Then there are the fungi — an odd yet fascinating choice that brings an element of the grotesque to the story. For those familiar with apocalyptic narratives such as the "Last of Us" video game series, or the real-world examples of parasitic fungi hijacking ant brains, you'll find a chilling parallel here. However, Kingfisher takes it a step further, intertwining this fungal threat with the zombified hare elements, creating a unique brand of horror that is both intriguing and spine-chilling.

 

As for the ending, it's a fittingly incendiary conclusion to a tale that smolders with quiet intensity. While it does feel a tad rushed, the closure it provides wraps up the narrative neatly, though one can't help but desire a bit more of the fiery, “hare”-raising spectacle.

 

In conclusion, "What Moves the Dead" is a chilling exploration of horror, identity, and the creeping dread of the unseen. It takes a classic tale and breathes new life into it, with a narrative that is as beautiful as it is terrifying.

 

#KingfisherNovella #WhatMovesTheDead #LGBTRepresentation #GothicHorror #MycologicalMystery #TimelessTerror #UnconventionalNarrative #Kingfisher

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Review: Queen of Teeth by Hailey Piper, 2021

Queen of Teeth by Hailey Piper, 2021
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars

In "Queen of Teeth," Hailey Piper weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of horror, tinged with dark humor and visceral intensity. The novel's pacing propels readers through its pages, masterfully blending macabre elements, political satire, apocalyptic devastation, and tender lesbian romance against a dystopian science fiction backdrop.

Piper deftly interlaces feminist themes and insightful political commentary, addressing healthcare, medical ethics, exploitation of women's bodies, reproductive rights, and societal expectations. The narrative burns with scathing critiques of a culture fixated on dismantling women's bodily autonomy, mirroring Piper's keen grasp of contemporary politics.

The story unfolds in a near-future alternate timeline, skillfully exploring LGBT-related issues such as institutional homophobia and transphobia without overwhelming readers. Piper intertwines these themes into the fabric of the narrative, enhancing its depth and resonance.

While certain aspects of the novel didn't entirely resonate with me, I was captivated by its shocking yet tender nature, punctuated by moments of hope and humor. "Queen of Teeth" stands as a testament to Hailey Piper's audacity as an author, pushing the boundaries of horror into uncharted territory.

"Queen of Teeth" is a riveting and innovative horror novel that may not suit everyone's taste, but it offers a refreshing perspective on body horror, identity loss, and various feminist and socio-political issues. If you're ready to plunge into Hailey Piper's world, brace yourself for a radical, transformative, and unforgettable  adventure.

#QueenOfTeeth #HaileyPiper #HorrorNovel #FeministThemes #BodyHorror #PoliticalCommentary #DystopianFiction #LGBTRepresentation #BookReview #IdentityLoss

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Review: Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield, 2022

Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield, 2022
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

"Our Wives Under the Sea" is a gothic, atmospheric, and somewhat claustrophobic novel that delves into the depths of love, loss, and the unknown. The story follows two lesbian wives, Miri and Leah, whose relationship is tested when Leah returns from a deep-sea submarine mission forever changed. The book's slow pacing and eerie tone create a sense of dread, but it's also filled with moments of tenderness and intimacy between the characters.

While none of the aspects particularly resonated with me personally, the striking language and stunning sentences used by Julia Armfield throughout the novel have been praised by others who had suggested this for my "reading list." The descriptions of deep undersea strangeness are fascinating, and the story is punctuated by scenes that are both grotesque and mesmerizing.

This novel has been described as a deeply queer and romantic monster story. The haunting and unsettling aspects are balanced by the love story between Miri and Leah, which is portrayed with specificity and care. The sense of the sea's vastness in the novel is conveyed through themes of love, emptiness, and all-consuming emotions.

For those who enjoy atmospheric, slow-burning stories that are rich in symbolism and beautifully written, "Our Wives Under the Sea" could be an unforgettable reading experience. The novel's unique blend of horror, romance, and the exploration of human relationships makes it a good addition to the genre.

I rate the novel 2 out of 5 stars.

#OurWivesUnderTheSea #JuliaArmfield #GothicNovel #QueerRomance #DeepSeaMystery #AtmosphericReads #BookReview #LoveAndLoss #HorrorAndRomance

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Review: The Cabin at the End of the World by Paul Tremblay, 2018

The Cabin at the End of the World by Paul Tremblay, 2018
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

Review: The Cabin at the End of the World by Paul G. Tremblay, 2018

I rate this book 1 out of 5 stars.

"They expect us to believe that Wen's death isn't a good enough sacrifice for their god," says Andrew. "So you know what? Fuck them and their god." 

A Frustrating and Aggravating Read: Ambiguity Overload. "The Cabin at the End of the World" left me feeling frustrated and aggravated throughout my reading experience. The characters' reasoning and actions often seemed irrational when simpler and more straightforward choices were available. This lack of sensibility made it challenging to connect with the story and its progression, even considering the possibility of supernatural influences on their decisions.

However, there were a few redeeming qualities in the novel. The portrayal of the family unit, consisting of two men and their adopted daughter, added an element of relatability, particularly in terms of the LGBT aspect. 

I understand that the author probably intentionally used ambiguity to create tension and that without all the irrational, aggravating actions and ways the characters behaved, there probably wouldn't be a draw to read the book. However, the use of ambiguity at every single plot point is just too much for me. This approach might be okay for others, but it was not enjoyable for me. At several points, I found myself wanting to slam the book shut or throw it across the room.

While "The Cabin at the End of the World" has its moments, my overall experience was marred by aggravation and frustration due to the excessive use of ambiguity to create tension. The characters' irrational actions and the book's pacing made it a #HateRead for me, even with the potential for supernatural influences on their decisions.

I rate this book 1 out of 5 stars.

#TheCabinAtTheEndOfTheWorld #PaulTremblay #BookReview #FrustratingRead #AmbiguityOverload #SupernaturalInfluences #LGBTRepresentation #HorrorNovel #PsychologicalThriller #Horror #fiction #Thriller #Suspense #LGBT #PsychologicalHorror #HATEREAD

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Review: Earthlings by Sayaka Murata, 2020

Earthlings by Sayaka Murata, 2020
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"Earthlings" by Sayaka Murata, originally written in Japanese and translated into , is a thought-provoking and unique book that explores uncomfortable themes and societal pressure to conform. Set in Japan, the characters are complex and nuanced, and the author does an excellent job of portraying their innermost thoughts and desires.

The plot is unpredictable, with absurdly risible twists and turns. However, the book's unique style and tone may not be for everyone, as it can be challenging to read at times. The grotesque and absurd nature of the content is delivered with a matter-of-factness that is both calming and disarming, that when the twist comes, it lands a one-two punch of shock then laughter.

Despite its darkness and strangeness, I found myself chuckling at the unique solutions the characters find to address their predicaments. Planet Popinpobopia, the supposed home planet of some of the characters, evokes both a sort of  cute and funny levity, adding an interesting layer to the story. Another interesting aspect of the book is the magic mirror, in which, the author uses as a tool to explore the characters' innermost desires and fears, adding a layer of depth and complexity to the book.

On reflection, I realized that I don't often read books in this genre or style, which made it all the more interesting to me. I laud the author's risks and exploration of uncomfortable themes in a way that challenges readers to question societal norms and expectations.

Overall, "Earthlings" is a thought-provoking and unique book that may not be for everyone but is worth exploring for those who are looking for something different and unconventional. The book's commentary on society and its characters' struggles to find their place in it make it a fascinating read that stays with you long after you've turned the final page.

#Earthlings #SayakaMurata #JapaneseFiction #TranslatedFiction #BookReview #DarkHumor #SocialCommentary #ThoughtProvoking #GinnyTapleyTakemori #Popinpobopia #DisturbingReads #MagicalRealism

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Review: Drowned Country by Emily Tesh, 2020

Drowned Country by Emily Tesh, 2020
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"Drowned Country" utterly captivated me from the moment I began reading. This mesmerizing sequel to "Silver in the Wood" transported me into an atmospheric, dark fairy tale world that blended adventure, mythology, and a deeply touching love story. As a fan of the first book, I found this installment to be just as enchanting, and I believe newcomers to the duology will be equally enthralled.

The story follows Henry Silver as he reluctantly takes on the mantle of the Wild Man of Greenhollow, embarking on a thrilling quest to find a missing girl in the enigmatic Undersea. I was captivated by the danger, magic, and mythical creatures that populated this incredible realm, which drew me even deeper into the rich folklore and fantasy that the author masterfully weaves.

One aspect of the novel that particularly resonated with me was the love story between Henry Silver and Tobias Finch. The sensitive portrayal of their relationship within the narrative added depth and emotion to the story. I found their connection heartwarming.

The author's bewitching, alluring, and at times, haunting writing style swept me away. The vivid descriptions, well-paced narrative, and immersive world-building made "Drowned Country" a truly exceptional reading experience, and I was completely absorbed in this magical realm of adventure and romance.

In conclusion, "Drowned Country" stole my heart with its captivating and haunting tale of love, magic, mythology, and adventure. The unforgettable characters, evocative themes, and enthralling twists left a lasting impression on me, and I wholeheartedly recommend this sequel to anyone who dares to dive into its magical world.

I rate this novella 5 out of 5 stars.

#DrownedCountry #MagicalAdventure #LoveAndMythology #LGBT #QueerLit #EmilyTesh #SilverInTheWood #Fantasy #Romance

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Review: Star Trek: Voyager: Mosaic, by Jeri Taylor, 1996

Mosaic by Jeri Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Star Trek: Voyager: Mosaic, by Jeri Taylor, 1996

Jeri Taylor's "Mosaic," a Star Trek: Voyager novel delves into the past of Captain Kathryn Janeway while simultaneously presenting a Delta Quadrant escapade. As a fan, I found myself engaged by the interweaving narrative strands that took me through Janeway's early life, her time as an ensign, and her relationship with familiar characters like Admiral Paris and Commander Riker.

As the story unfolds, we witness Janeway's extraordinary growth and development, which Taylor masterfully showcases with a seamless blend of action and character development. While the other storyline of the stranded away team initially piqued my interest, I eventually found myself drawn more to Janeway's backstory, particularly her time as an ensign and her interactions with other Starfleet officers.

Despite some minor distractions from occasional technobabble and a slightly rushed ending, the novel's pacing is good, ensuring a entertaining journey from start to finish. Only a few times did I find the connection between the two main narrative strands jarring, but overall, the integration was satisfactory.

"Mosaic" deepens our understanding of Janeway's character, revealing the pivotal experiences and choices that shaped her into the strong, resilient leader we know and admire. For fans eager to explore the untold story of Captain Janeway, this book is a must-read that adds a new dimension to the Star Trek: Voyager universe.

I rate this novel 4 out of 5 stars.

#CaptainJaneway #StarTrekVoyager #MosaicNovel #DeltaQuadrant #JeriTaylor #JanewaysBackstory #StarTrek #Janeway #BookReview #ScienceFiction

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Review: Silver in the Wood (Greenhollow Duology, #1), by Emily Tesh, 2019

Silver in the Wood (Greenhollow Duology, #1)by Emily Tesh, 2019
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In "Silver in the Wood," Emily Tesh delivers an enchanting and thoughtful tale that I absolutely adored. As other reviewers have mentioned, the novella beautifully balances character development with a well-structured plot, and I found myself genuinely invested in the lives of the characters. The story effortlessly weaves together the lives of Tobias Finch, the enigmatic guardian of Greenhollow, and Henry Silver, a young nobleman captivated by local folklore.

Tesh's descriptive language and world-building, which many have praised for being immersive and evocative, truly enhances the reading experience, and I couldn't help but fall in love with the world she created. The atmospheric setting is vivid and engaging, yet never distracts from the story's forward momentum. I particularly appreciated how the author's prose created a living world with seamless effort.

One of the standout aspects of the novella, as echoed by other readers, is the romance between Tobias and Henry. Their relationship is portrayed with a combination of measured and controlled depth, as represented by Tobias, and an endearing naivete and carefreeness embodied by Henry. This delicate balance ensures that the romance never veers into the realm of cliché or cheesiness, and I found their love story both heartwarming and captivating.

The book incorporates folklore and mythology, and although I wasn't familiar with the specific folklore used, I found that it added a layer of intrigue to the narrative. As other reviewers have noted, the impact of these elements is subtle and doesn't rely on the reader's prior knowledge, which allows the story to maintain its originality and appeal to a broader audience.

In terms of pacing, "Silver in the Wood" is commendable. Despite the novella's relatively short length, Tesh manages to tell a complete and engaging story without making it feel rushed, a sentiment shared by many other readers. The narrative moves along smoothly, providing enough depth and development to keep readers invested in the characters and their fates. The plot features mysterious figures from the past, ancient powers, and a sinister antagonist, all without giving away too much in this review.

Overall, "Silver in the Wood" is a captivating and well-crafted tale that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who appreciates a thoughtful, character-driven narrative with a touch of romance and folklore. The masterful balance of character development, plot, and atmosphere makes it a must-read for fans of atmospheric and evocative fantasy stories. I found myself completely swept away by the world and the characters Emily Tesh created, and I can't wait to read more of her work.

I rate this novella 5 out of 5 stars.

#SilverInTheWood #EmilyTesh #GreenhollowDuology #FantasyNovella  #LGBTQBooks #FolkloreInLiterature #QueerRomance #MagicalForest #BookRecommendation #AtmosphericReads

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Review: "Earthside (Quantum Earth, Book 2)" by Dennis E. Taylor, 2023

Earthside (Quantum Earth, Book 2) by Dennis E. Taylor, 2023
My rating: 1.75 of 5 stars

As a fan of Dennis E. Taylor's work (ie- Bobiverse Series), I eagerly awaited the release of Earthside, the sequel to Outland. My expectations weren't set too high after only somewhat enjoying the first book, but unfortunately, Earthside didn't quite raise the bar nor live up to them.

While I appreciated the continuation of the story, I found the emphasis on politics and the internal struggles of the characters less engaging than the scientific and adventurous aspects I had come to expect from Taylor's writing. The exploration of alternate Earths was a fascinating concept, but I was disappointed by how little attention it received in the story.

Also I understand some behavioral aspects were played for laughs, but I think that some readers may take issue with the way certain characters were portrayed and find the book's treatment of topics like pregnancy and mental disorders to be problematic. The story could have delved deeper into these subjects and presented a more sensitive and nuanced portrayal of the characters and their struggles.

The political arguments and the focus on who's in charge detracted from the overall plot, and I missed the excitement and sense of discovery that I had experienced while reading Outland. I had hoped for more emphasis on the science and technology in this sequel, but it took a backseat to the characters' squabbles.

However, it's worth mentioning that Ray Porter's narration of the audiobook was skillful and his performance brought life to the characters and made the book easier to digest. Despite the issues I had with Earthside, Porter's narration added an enjoyable dimension to the experience.

Though Earthside wasn't quite what I had hoped for, I understand that it might appeal to a different audience that enjoys the politics, character dynamics, and in-fighting/power struggles. Perhaps the next book in the series will return to the elements that made Outland a potentially captivating read.

I rate this  book  1.75 out of 5 stars.

#DennisETaylor #Earthside #OutlandSequel #SciFiBooks #RayPorterNarration #AlternateEarths  #PostApocalyptic #BookReview #Outland #ApocalypseNowWhat #InterdimensionalDrama s #EarthsideEscapades #TaylorsTales #RayPorterFTW #SciFiShenanigans 

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Review: To Be Taught, If Fortunate, by Becky Chambers, 2019

To Be Taught, If Fortunate by Becky Chambers, 2019
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

"To Be Taught, If Fortunate" by Becky Chambers follows a four-person crew of astronauts as they navigate the complexities of a mission called the Lawki Program. Tasked with exploring four exoplanets in a distant solar system, the crew faces numerous challenges and unique experiences that test their resilience and adaptability. As the astronauts venture into the unknown, the reader is presented with a thought-provoking look at the ethics of space exploration and the responsibility humans have when encountering new ecosystems.

While the pacing of the novel may be slow for some readers, the rich detail and carefully crafted plot prevent the story from becoming monotonous. Each planet the crew visits presents a new set of challenges and intriguing discoveries, keeping the reader engaged and eager to learn more about these distant worlds.

Despite not finding any of the characters particularly memorable, the author's world-building and depiction of the various planets and ecosystems are commendable. The unique solutions the characters use to address difficulties, such as somaforming and cryosleep, are fascinating and showcase the author's creativity.

Chambers' writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making it a pleasure to read about the intricate worlds and characters she creates. Although the book may not resonate strongly in terms of themes and messages, it offers a thought-provoking and captivating journey through distant worlds.

In summary, "To Be Taught, If Fortunate" is a slow-paced but thought-provoking exploration of the human spirit, science, and the vast possibilities of space, offering readers an introspective journey through the challenges and wonders of the cosmos.

I rate this novel 2 out of 5 stars.

#ToBeTaughtIfFortunate #BeckyChambers #SpaceExploration #ScienceFiction #Exoplanets #Astronauts #Somaforming #Cryosleep #WorldBuilding #SciFiNovel

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*****   SPOILERS  *****

. Here's a play-by-play of the major events in the story:

Introduction of the Crew and Mission:

We are introduced to the four astronauts: Ariadne O'Neill (the narrator), Jack Vo, Elena Quesada-Cruz, and Chikondi Daka. They embark on a mission to study four exoplanets in the Zhenyi system, which is 14 light-years away from Earth.

Somaforming and Cryosleep:

To adapt to the various environments on the exoplanets, the astronauts undergo a process called somaforming, which temporarily alters their biology. They also spend a significant amount of time in cryosleep during the journey to the Zhenyi system.

Arrival at Aecor:

The first exoplanet the crew explores is Aecor, an icy and cold world. They discover an ecosystem below the ice, including a slug-like creature they name "ice slugs."

Exploration of Mirabilis:

The second planet the crew visits is Mirabilis, a hot and humid world. They encounter a diverse range of plant and animal life, including a giant, tentacled creature they call the "bog wraith."

Studying Opera:

The third planet on their journey is Opera, a world with a thick atmosphere and a deep ocean. They find an ecosystem thriving in the ocean's depths, where they encounter bioluminescent creatures and a massive sea creature called the "titan leviathan."

Arrival at Votum:

The fourth and final planet is Votum, a desert-like world. They discover plant life that thrives on minerals and a species of social insects called the "sandkin."

The Morality Question:

As they explore the planets, the crew grapples with the ethical implications of their mission and the potential consequences of their presence on these ecosystems.

Losing Contact with Earth:

The crew loses contact with Earth and discovers that there have been significant political and social changes on their home planet. They are unsure of whether to continue their mission or return home.

Decision Time:

As the story draws to a close, the crew must make a decision about their future. They choose to send a message back to Earth, asking for guidance on whether they should return or continue exploring. The novella ends with Ariadne addressing the people of Earth, emphasizing the importance of learning, growing, and connecting with one another.

Review: Imzadi by Peter David, 1992

Imzadi by Peter David, 1992
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As a long-time Star Trek: The Next Generation fan and on reccommendation , I was excited to dive into "Imzadi" by Peter David, a novel that explores the complex romantic history between Commander William Riker and ship's counselor Deanna Troi. I have to say, it didn't disappoint.

What struck me the most about "Imzadi" was its focus on character development. The story offers a unique glimpse into Riker and Troi's lives before their service on the U.S.S. Enterprise, providing valuable insights into their personalities and the enduring bond they share. As a fan, I appreciated the authenticity of the characters' voices and the way their dialogue often infused humor into the narrative.

David's nonlinear storytelling also piqued my interest, as it added an element of surprise and kept me guessing throughout the novel. I found this approach to be a refreshing departure from the typical prequel format.

However, I must admit that "Imzadi" isn't without its flaws. At times, the novel felt overly melodramatic, and I couldn't help but wish for more focus on Troi's character development instead of centering mainly on Riker's perspective. The time-travel elements, while fascinating, were occasionally confusing, and the book's meta-commentary sometimes felt dated or out of place.

Despite these issues, "Imzadi" remains a memorable and emotionally compelling addition to the Star Trek literary universe. For me, the exploration of Riker and Troi's relationship deepened my understanding of their characters and added a new layer to my appreciation of the show. The novel's blend of romance, action, and mystery kept me engaged and invested in the story.

"Imzadi" may not be perfect, but if you're a fan of the show and interested in a unique take on Riker and Troi's relationship, then I recommend giving "Imzadi" a read.

I rate this novel 4 out of 5 stars.

#Imzadi #StarTrekTNG #RikerAndTroi #PeterDavid #StarTrekNovel #SciFiRomance #TrekLit  #StarTrekBooks #BetazoidLove #StarTrekFans #StarTrek #Trek

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Review: Shadows Have Offended by Cassandra Rose Clarke, 2021

Shadows Have Offended by Cassandra Rose Clarke, 2021
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the vast landscape of Star Trek literature, Cassandra Rose Clarke's "Shadows Have Offended" is a delightful throwback to the golden days of The Next Generation. A breath of fresh air, this standalone novel set during TNG's seventh season brings us back to the beloved characters and invites us on an adventure that feels like a lost episode.

The narrative unfolds in a classic TNG format, with engaging A and B plotlines centered around Dr. Beverly Crusher and Counselor Deanna Troi. Clarke's understanding of these iconic characters shines through, her words effortlessly bringing their voices to life. The story ventures beyond the confines of the television series, adding depth to our understanding of their personal lives and quirks (such as Beverly's love for ham and cheese sandwiches and Deanna's teenage holonovel obsession).

In one plotline, we are treated to a vivid exploration of Betazoid culture and history as Troi returns to her home planet for a long-awaited ceremony. Clarke weaves a tapestry of tantalizing descriptions, transporting us into the midst of Betazed's festivities, complete with ornate costumes, music, and delectable treats. The world-building is immersive, and as we delve into the history of the five houses of Betazed, layers of intrigue and secrecy are peeled back.

Lwaxana Troi, the ever-entertaining Madame Ambassador, graces the pages with her larger-than-life presence. We witness her relationship with Captain Picard evolve, showcasing her often-overlooked ambassadorial skills. Meanwhile, the early stages of Troi and Worf's relationship provide a perfect blend of fluff and professionalism, as they work together on a mission involving ancient Romulan vendettas and a mysterious Betazoid.

The second storyline follows Dr. Crusher as she joins an away team on a seemingly peaceful planet. However, true to Star Trek form, things go awry, and the team is thrust into a bizarre series of events. Clarke's introduction of original characters, like the endearing Lt. Rikkilä, adds depth and intrigue to the tale.

The novel's charm lies in its nostalgic feel and attention to detail, reminiscent of the TNG novels many of us grew up with. While not a heavy-hitter in terms of themes or morality issues, "Shadows Have Offended" is a warm, comforting read that will transport you back to the Enterprise-D and leave you hoping for more adventures from Clarke in the TNG universe.

I rate this novel 4 out of 5 stars.

#StarTrekTNG #ShadowsHaveOffended #DeannaTroi #BeverlyCrusher #BetazoidCulture #CassandraRoseClarke #EnterpriseD #TNGNovel #TroiAndWorf #StarTrekLiterature

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