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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The Valiant (Star Trek: The Next Generation), by Michael Jan Friedman, 2000

The Valiant (Star Trek: The Next Generation), by Michael Jan Friedman, 2000

USS Stargazer’s latest tour of duty, second officer Lt Commander Jean-Luc Picard, is ordered to investigate the rumors of an alien species, the Nuyyad, that is reportedly planning to invade the Federation.

The Captain of the ship dies during a battle, while his first in command enters a coma, leaving Jean-Luc Picard acting captain. After a subset of the crew fails to mutiny, Picard solidifies his role as the leader of the and captain of the ship. They finally head off across to the Galactic Barrier to investigate the Nuyyad, Magnians, and Kelvans.

Once they arrive at the destination, Picard deals with a human race capable of telepathy, like Mitchell from TOS, some saboteurs, and an all out battle with an alien star base. In the end, Picards proves triumphant and earns the permanent commendation of Captain of the USS Stargazer.

This book is not what I expected. I went into this book thinking I can get through it fairly leisurely and without much attention to the details. This book read much like other Star Trek books in such that it read like a tv episode. What made this a bit different is the amount of backstory and subplots compressed into such a small amount of space. I  found myself frequently backtracking and examining how the current events relate to the previous ones and how they would be relevant to the upcoming  ones.

I think the story could be expanded and layered; building a stronger connection from one plot to the next. It might also be easier to follow.

My rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2 out of 5 stars) - It was okay.

http://memory-beta.wikia.com/wiki/The_Valiant

The 34th Rule (Star Trek Deep Space Nine #23), by Armin Shimmerman, 1999

The 34th Rule (Star Trek Deep Space Nine #23), by Armin Shimmerman, 1999

The Ferengi declare war on Bajor and Starfleet evacuates DS9. All for what?  All for that religious belief relating to the Orb (the 9th one).

The war comes about when the Grand Nagus decides to exclude the Bajorans from the line of authorized bidders of the 9th Orb of Celestial some sort of other blah blah blah.

The Bajorans, as usual, come off as terroristic, and Major Kira especially cunty. Yes, cunty, to a point where her character is just plain despicable.

As it turns out, the Ferengi engineered the entire turn of events to maximize their profits by manipulating purchases and capitulations of all species involved.

This novel is one of the few I know about that depicts the Ferengi as a non-comedic relief. The Ferengi in this book had substance and might and taken seriously by the Federation and Bajor.

Personally, I could have done without the internment camp sub-plot. I mean, it has some small role that contributed to the twist and added to the allure of a "strong Ferengi Empire". It was cheesy as far as I'm concerned.

My rating: ★★★☆☆ (3 out of 5 stars) - I liked it.