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Star Trek: The Original Series
Star Trek: Troublesome Minds
A new "classic" story starring Kirk, Spock, and the crew of the Enterprise , coinciding with the premiere of the new Star Trek movie from director J.J. Abrams. While exploring the unmapped frontier, the Starship Enterprise responds to a distress call from an unknown ship. Captain James T. Kirk turns first contact into a threat of interstellar war—by saving the life of a man his own people abandoned. Berlis, colony leader of a telepathic race calling themselves the Isitri, claims not to know why those from his homeworld want him dead. Now Kirk must either find a way to wrench billions from the grip of one man, or be responsible for the destruction of two planets.
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 14, 2009
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
October 5, 2018
I really enjoyed this one. The Starship Enterprise save the life of Berlis who species has telepathic abilities.
Soon Spock begins behaving weirdly as the Isitri abilities are so powerful even he’s own people want him dead.
The characterisation of the crew is so well written, the could easily have been a televised episode.
It was so easy to get swept along by the adventure.
Soon Spock begins behaving weirdly as the Isitri abilities are so powerful even he’s own people want him dead.
The characterisation of the crew is so well written, the could easily have been a televised episode.
It was so easy to get swept along by the adventure.
September 8, 2010
This is my first Star Trek novel and I was heartily impressed by the author, Dave Galanter, and his obvious understanding and appreciation of Star Trek and its characters.
What first drew me into this story was the spot-on descriptions of the characters’ movements, speech patterns, and pointed looks. I truly could envision it all unfolding before my eyes. While sometimes these detailed descriptions tended to slow- up the pace a little, for the most part I didn’t mind because the references were so classic.
As far as the story itself, “Troublesome Minds” deals with the Enterprise, and her whole ensemble, but the focus is primarily on Kirk, Spock, and Bones, with a special emphasis on Spock’s role in this mission.
I really enjoyed the plot for this book, and felt it fit well within the parameters of most Star Trek stories. Just like some of my favorite Star Trek episodes, “Troublesome Minds” didn’t have a clear right/wrong moral decision that was obvious right away.
For this story, the Enterprise encounters the Isitri, a populace of telepaths, able to communicate thoughts and emotions mentally. While this presents a minor issue with initial communication between the crew of the Enterprise and the Isitri people, the real conflict centers around the Troublesome Mind, the Isitri who is born with such a powerful mind that he is able to control all the other minds of the Isitri, without the populace being aware that they are no longer in control of their thoughts.
But, what I love about the story were the multiple layers, the challenging questions it posed — the Troublesome Mind isn’t aware that he possesses such an ability, nor has he yet to control another mind. So, should he be banished simply because he possesses this capability but has yet to put it to use? Can he be punished for something he isn’t aware he’s done?
As the crew of the Enterprise try to answer these questions, Spock is given a central role. Because of Spock’s Vulcan abilities for mind-melds, as well as his superior ability to submerge his emotions, he is entrusted with an incredible weight and responsibility for this mission.
I’m still not entirely sure how I feel about the ending. It was good, but also not what I was expecting from the start (though, as the book progressed I should have wised up). It’s not that there were any plot holes that I could detect, but I think I wanted either a little more after the climax, or more of a nicely tied up ending. This, however, is probably strictly personal preference. I don’t mean to say Galanter’s ending was inadequate, it’s just *I* would have liked a little more or a little different. BUT, that said, I would definitely recommend this book!! And I really enjoyed and appreciated the author’s acknowledgements at the end.
I wouldn’t call myself a Trekkie, but I am a huge fan of Star Trek — and reading this was like visiting friends every time I opened the book.
******
An awesome Christmas gift from Katie! (thanks!!!)
All I can say is - woah! - from that first chapter Galanter has done an amazing job of writing these characters to a remarkable likeness! For example (plot details removed):
"Perhaps your human intuition is at work," Spock gibed, as McCoy joined them.
"How lucky for you not to be burdened," the doctor said.
Kirk allowed himself a slight smirk that pulled up the one corner of his mouth.
"Indeed," Spock replied.
"How long before we can talk to them again, Bones?"
The doctor's shoulders rolled in a lazy shrug, as he shook his head. "I'll let you know."
...Kirk told Spock. "I want you to talk with him again. Find out all you can..."
Spock, clasping his hands behind his back, nodded, saying, "Understood."
---
Okay, maybe it doesn't quite come across out of context... Still, I feel as though I'm "watching" the show as I'm reading it. Here's hoping the rest of the book follows suit! :D
What first drew me into this story was the spot-on descriptions of the characters’ movements, speech patterns, and pointed looks. I truly could envision it all unfolding before my eyes. While sometimes these detailed descriptions tended to slow- up the pace a little, for the most part I didn’t mind because the references were so classic.
As far as the story itself, “Troublesome Minds” deals with the Enterprise, and her whole ensemble, but the focus is primarily on Kirk, Spock, and Bones, with a special emphasis on Spock’s role in this mission.
I really enjoyed the plot for this book, and felt it fit well within the parameters of most Star Trek stories. Just like some of my favorite Star Trek episodes, “Troublesome Minds” didn’t have a clear right/wrong moral decision that was obvious right away.
For this story, the Enterprise encounters the Isitri, a populace of telepaths, able to communicate thoughts and emotions mentally. While this presents a minor issue with initial communication between the crew of the Enterprise and the Isitri people, the real conflict centers around the Troublesome Mind, the Isitri who is born with such a powerful mind that he is able to control all the other minds of the Isitri, without the populace being aware that they are no longer in control of their thoughts.
But, what I love about the story were the multiple layers, the challenging questions it posed — the Troublesome Mind isn’t aware that he possesses such an ability, nor has he yet to control another mind. So, should he be banished simply because he possesses this capability but has yet to put it to use? Can he be punished for something he isn’t aware he’s done?
As the crew of the Enterprise try to answer these questions, Spock is given a central role. Because of Spock’s Vulcan abilities for mind-melds, as well as his superior ability to submerge his emotions, he is entrusted with an incredible weight and responsibility for this mission.
I’m still not entirely sure how I feel about the ending. It was good, but also not what I was expecting from the start (though, as the book progressed I should have wised up). It’s not that there were any plot holes that I could detect, but I think I wanted either a little more after the climax, or more of a nicely tied up ending. This, however, is probably strictly personal preference. I don’t mean to say Galanter’s ending was inadequate, it’s just *I* would have liked a little more or a little different. BUT, that said, I would definitely recommend this book!! And I really enjoyed and appreciated the author’s acknowledgements at the end.
I wouldn’t call myself a Trekkie, but I am a huge fan of Star Trek — and reading this was like visiting friends every time I opened the book.
******
An awesome Christmas gift from Katie! (thanks!!!)
All I can say is - woah! - from that first chapter Galanter has done an amazing job of writing these characters to a remarkable likeness! For example (plot details removed):
"Perhaps your human intuition is at work," Spock gibed, as McCoy joined them.
"How lucky for you not to be burdened," the doctor said.
Kirk allowed himself a slight smirk that pulled up the one corner of his mouth.
"Indeed," Spock replied.
"How long before we can talk to them again, Bones?"
The doctor's shoulders rolled in a lazy shrug, as he shook his head. "I'll let you know."
...Kirk told Spock. "I want you to talk with him again. Find out all you can..."
Spock, clasping his hands behind his back, nodded, saying, "Understood."
---
Okay, maybe it doesn't quite come across out of context... Still, I feel as though I'm "watching" the show as I'm reading it. Here's hoping the rest of the book follows suit! :D
June 30, 2009
When the Enterprise rescues a ship from near destruction, they bring on board the mysterious Belis. Part of an alien race, Belis has the ability to project his thoughts and will upon people--and that includes Spock.
By saving Belis, Kirk and company may have inadvertently started a war between two neighboring planets. Belis was sentenced to death as part of a peace agreement between the two people. But when Belis is returned, he begins to take over the will of the people slowly as the other side escalates toward full-scale war.
Added to the dilemma is that Spock may or may not be under the influence of Belis.
The dilemma of what to do about Belis and how the Prime Directive applies to the situation makes for the kind of moral quandary novel that "Star Trek" does so well. The ethical considerations for Kirk of whether or not the greater good needs to be served over the rights of an individual is a fascinating dilemma.
That said, a solution to the problem comes out of left field a bit, thus negating some of the ethical dilemma and giving our heroes an easy way out.
By saving Belis, Kirk and company may have inadvertently started a war between two neighboring planets. Belis was sentenced to death as part of a peace agreement between the two people. But when Belis is returned, he begins to take over the will of the people slowly as the other side escalates toward full-scale war.
Added to the dilemma is that Spock may or may not be under the influence of Belis.
The dilemma of what to do about Belis and how the Prime Directive applies to the situation makes for the kind of moral quandary novel that "Star Trek" does so well. The ethical considerations for Kirk of whether or not the greater good needs to be served over the rights of an individual is a fascinating dilemma.
That said, a solution to the problem comes out of left field a bit, thus negating some of the ethical dilemma and giving our heroes an easy way out.
November 17, 2009
I almost gave this three stars because of the abrupt ending (my impartiality is uncertain where my Spock is concerned) - but I'm going with four stars because this story sucked me in and held me tight until the end, and I kept thinking about it after it was over. That's what I really want from my Trek fic, and this story delivered it.
June 9, 2023
i loved it it left me with more questions than answers with the character of Berlis did he control spock or was spock controlling Berlis? and also did spock drop his telepathic defenses and let berlis into his mind i also liked that this book asked the question how do you know if someone is controlling your mind? the author had a brilliant grasp of the star trek characters and knows them inside and out brilliant novel from a very good author
June 28, 2019
This Star Trek novel managed to present the Enterprise crew with an unusual problem—a powerful telepath is heavily influencing the crew and their reactions. Because of the language barrier and their essential lack of telepathic ability, humans are less vulnerable than Vulcans, but they are still affected.
Learning of this possibility, Kirk and Spock basically ignore the potential problem. Even after Spock, acting totally out of character, sabotages the Enterprise, steals a shuttle and tries to commit suicide in a way that will take a couple of alien vessels with him (vessels that pose a threat to the super telepath but not to the Enterprise) Kirk has trouble fully coming to grips with the problem. He confines Spock to quarters instead of putting him in the brig. No one ever seems to consider incapacitating the telepath.
The solution to their problem—find another super telepath to help them—should have gone disastrously wrong. Considering that everything bad the super telepath was doing appeared to be the result of his subconscious mind, it almost had to go wrong, but it didn’t, and the day was saved…almost.
Once again, Spock, acting without his normal cool-headed reasoning makes a mistake that poses an interesting quandary at the end of the novel—the single best part of the book. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to save this one.
If you liked this review, you can find more at www.gilbertstack.com/reviews.
Learning of this possibility, Kirk and Spock basically ignore the potential problem. Even after Spock, acting totally out of character, sabotages the Enterprise, steals a shuttle and tries to commit suicide in a way that will take a couple of alien vessels with him (vessels that pose a threat to the super telepath but not to the Enterprise) Kirk has trouble fully coming to grips with the problem. He confines Spock to quarters instead of putting him in the brig. No one ever seems to consider incapacitating the telepath.
The solution to their problem—find another super telepath to help them—should have gone disastrously wrong. Considering that everything bad the super telepath was doing appeared to be the result of his subconscious mind, it almost had to go wrong, but it didn’t, and the day was saved…almost.
Once again, Spock, acting without his normal cool-headed reasoning makes a mistake that poses an interesting quandary at the end of the novel—the single best part of the book. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to save this one.
If you liked this review, you can find more at www.gilbertstack.com/reviews.
February 12, 2022
Captain Kirk is struck by how charismatic an alien leader is, until he learns his secret. A secret which threatens the lives of billions - and his First Officer, Mister Spock.
Galanter's novel is very much in the vein of the television series, a leader with abnormal abilities whose very existence is a fundamental threat to free will and the security of the Federation. By making the antagonist so likeable, he asks readers to question their own perception of those in power.
Galanter's novel is very much in the vein of the television series, a leader with abnormal abilities whose very existence is a fundamental threat to free will and the security of the Federation. By making the antagonist so likeable, he asks readers to question their own perception of those in power.
November 11, 2023
This is the darkest & most intense Trek novel I've read in some considerable time. It feels like a throwback to the earliest Pocket Book novels, which didn't seem to be afraid of exploring the darker, more personal corners of the TOS crew & its era. I can't give it the entire 5 stars, as I found the the Odib to be a less interesting culture and the Isitri, but the overall package remains incredibly strong. It also features the most ambiguous & uncomfortable conclusion to a Trek novel in my memory.
June 20, 2015
I thought the story was interesting and the aliens were very different than what we saw on the show from week to week. The story deals with the Enterprise in a situation between two alien vessels and what seems like the right decision at the time of the encounter turns horribly wrong. The story gets a bit muddled in the middle act. The characters for the most part are true to the TV series although McCoy at times is a bit like plot putty, the same goes for some of the tech on the Enterprise. The Spock story arc in the novel is really good, and the way the story ends will leaving you thinking. I really enjoyed the last act of the novel. I would recommend this novel and the author's latest book which I read before this one.
July 11, 2009
I didn't know books were still being written for Original Star Trek. So I picked this up and gave it a good try. And the writer gave it a good try, too. But it just didn't grab me. I found the plot very narrow, and use of the familiar characters very narrow, too. In some ways, it was as though the only people on the ship were Spock, Kirk, Bones, and Scotty. So I began dipping around, read the last chapter, and put the book down.
July 5, 2009
The best Trek I've read in a long time. This is a throwback novel set during TOS five year mission. A single book story, it is very well written and the author nails the three primary characters perfectly.
January 11, 2021
“The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few or the one.”
This line has been quoted throughout the Star Trek fandom, especially in the TOS movies (Wrath of Khan, Search for Spock, and The Voyage Home, mainly.) It is a logical quote, but is often broken by the most illogical;
“The needs of the one outweighs the needs of the many.”
This illogical view saves Spock’s life in Search For Spock. In “Troublesome Minds” the entire philosophy of “all for one, and one for all” is truly tested.
The book is full of action, but not always the physical form. This war is a battle of the minds. Telepathy and hive mind communications are the main enemies. Throughout the book, there are descriptions of mind melds, thought barriers, telepathic disturbances. These scenes of mental chaos are written extraordinarily well!
The story is driven on pure plot. From the first scene to the last line, action and development are always in motion. I love it when a novel enforces plot in such an important way. However, I dislike it when it is employed at the cost of characters.
While the basic natures of the characters were kept, there were several situations in which I believe they would have acted differently if Gene Roddenberry had been the one to write the novel. Kirk letting Spock out on his own to fend for himself is truly out of character, as is Spock’s outward signs of conflict. While the Vulcan might FEEL the conflict and ACKNOWLEDGE it, he would ever let it SHOW if he could help it.
Though most of the action takes place on the Enterprise, characters like Uhura, Sulu, Checkov, and even Bones are often put on the back burner. I like to think that these characters are not “extras” but pivotal roles in Star Trek and should always be used as such.
While I cannot say I was displeased with the ending, I must say it did shake me. It was wholly unexpected and short. There was a bit of action in the end that leaves the reader questioning “what just happened?” And then the book ends abruptly, without giving the reader any time to process the events that just took place.
All in all, it was a good read if you are a fan of lots of action, mind games, and Vulcan telepathy. However if you do not like seeing Spock and Kirk questionably act out of character, with little mention of the rest of the crew...proceed with caution.
This line has been quoted throughout the Star Trek fandom, especially in the TOS movies (Wrath of Khan, Search for Spock, and The Voyage Home, mainly.) It is a logical quote, but is often broken by the most illogical;
“The needs of the one outweighs the needs of the many.”
This illogical view saves Spock’s life in Search For Spock. In “Troublesome Minds” the entire philosophy of “all for one, and one for all” is truly tested.
The book is full of action, but not always the physical form. This war is a battle of the minds. Telepathy and hive mind communications are the main enemies. Throughout the book, there are descriptions of mind melds, thought barriers, telepathic disturbances. These scenes of mental chaos are written extraordinarily well!
The story is driven on pure plot. From the first scene to the last line, action and development are always in motion. I love it when a novel enforces plot in such an important way. However, I dislike it when it is employed at the cost of characters.
While the basic natures of the characters were kept, there were several situations in which I believe they would have acted differently if Gene Roddenberry had been the one to write the novel. Kirk letting Spock out on his own to fend for himself is truly out of character, as is Spock’s outward signs of conflict. While the Vulcan might FEEL the conflict and ACKNOWLEDGE it, he would ever let it SHOW if he could help it.
Though most of the action takes place on the Enterprise, characters like Uhura, Sulu, Checkov, and even Bones are often put on the back burner. I like to think that these characters are not “extras” but pivotal roles in Star Trek and should always be used as such.
While I cannot say I was displeased with the ending, I must say it did shake me. It was wholly unexpected and short. There was a bit of action in the end that leaves the reader questioning “what just happened?” And then the book ends abruptly, without giving the reader any time to process the events that just took place.
All in all, it was a good read if you are a fan of lots of action, mind games, and Vulcan telepathy. However if you do not like seeing Spock and Kirk questionably act out of character, with little mention of the rest of the crew...proceed with caution.
April 23, 2019
I am not quite a “Trekkie” but have been a fan of Star Trek since it was first televised back in the 1960s. I’ve enjoyed the subsequent series and movies, original and rebooted. The original, however, is still my favorite. As much as anybody, I would like to see new episodes of the original characters in the original setting. I knew, of course, that was not possible. And I figured any “new” stories based on the original Star Trek would be a weak gruel, indeed.
So I am pleased that I was wrong. Dave Galanter in TROUBLESOME MINDS has done a fine job capturing the characters of Capt. Kirk, Mr. Spock, and the rest of the Enterprise crew down to facial gestures in a fast-moving plot of exploring new worlds. It captures the rhythm of the original in a thoughtful science fiction extrapolation.
Even better, the plot involves an idea that might be difficult to capture on-screen: a battle of minds, literally, with worlds at stake.
The concept involves a race of true telepaths – not a hive mind, but billions of individuals who communicate thoughts and feelings with each other almost exclusively on a mental level. We all know, of course, that Spock has some telepathic abilities, along with powerful control over his thoughts and emotions. His interaction with the aliens is most fascinating.
Galanter does a nice job adding one complication after another, with ever-higher stakes, while also exploring how such telepathic communication could impact not just their society but also other races they come into contact with.
The climax – which I will not reveal here – is powerful and inevitable, considering the characters and the worlds they inhabit.
While this book may not be the same thing as another of the 1960s episodes, TROUBLESOME MINDS is welcome and enjoyable on its own.
So I am pleased that I was wrong. Dave Galanter in TROUBLESOME MINDS has done a fine job capturing the characters of Capt. Kirk, Mr. Spock, and the rest of the Enterprise crew down to facial gestures in a fast-moving plot of exploring new worlds. It captures the rhythm of the original in a thoughtful science fiction extrapolation.
Even better, the plot involves an idea that might be difficult to capture on-screen: a battle of minds, literally, with worlds at stake.
The concept involves a race of true telepaths – not a hive mind, but billions of individuals who communicate thoughts and feelings with each other almost exclusively on a mental level. We all know, of course, that Spock has some telepathic abilities, along with powerful control over his thoughts and emotions. His interaction with the aliens is most fascinating.
Galanter does a nice job adding one complication after another, with ever-higher stakes, while also exploring how such telepathic communication could impact not just their society but also other races they come into contact with.
The climax – which I will not reveal here – is powerful and inevitable, considering the characters and the worlds they inhabit.
While this book may not be the same thing as another of the 1960s episodes, TROUBLESOME MINDS is welcome and enjoyable on its own.
May 5, 2020
This is the most impressed I've ever been with an original series novel. The storyline is as complex and morally ambigous as any I'd expect to find in an episode a Next Gen or DS9 and the ending was as unexpected as it was effective. We even have, at times, not one but two unrelaiable protagonists, made more suspensful by the fact that one is a main character who is supposed to be incapable of deception. The battle scenes were well written and engaging and the author managed to stay true to the three main characters in their separate reactions to the situation, as well as providing a few well timed injections of humor through their interactions.
There were a couple of negatives: the plot drags a bit during the middle and there is (as always) too much of Kirk being poryrayed as a selfless hero for my taste. Also, it didn't provide many in interactions with the rest of the crew despite there being plenty of opportunity.
Overall, my feeling on finishing this book was the same as when I first watched the City on the Edge of Forever. I'm still expecting the happy bridge moment to come along and reaffirm everything is ok and back to normal but the novel's strength lies in assurance that it won't.
There were a couple of negatives: the plot drags a bit during the middle and there is (as always) too much of Kirk being poryrayed as a selfless hero for my taste. Also, it didn't provide many in interactions with the rest of the crew despite there being plenty of opportunity.
Overall, my feeling on finishing this book was the same as when I first watched the City on the Edge of Forever. I'm still expecting the happy bridge moment to come along and reaffirm everything is ok and back to normal but the novel's strength lies in assurance that it won't.
May 9, 2022
I liked the beginning--the story had a nice, fast paced start. This wasn't that standard medie-tie-in-let's-wait-100-pages-until-the-plot-starts-moving.
The characters were interesting. The Star Trek regulars sounded like a new episode of the classic show. I liked the dilemma and was excited to see what was going to happen.
But I didn't like what happened! The middle kind of dragged and for the last thirty pages or so, it took me a few days--which I guess means I wasn't interested anymore. The ending made me groan. I don't think I'd recommend this one based on the whole story, but the set up and aliens were good.
The characters were interesting. The Star Trek regulars sounded like a new episode of the classic show. I liked the dilemma and was excited to see what was going to happen.
But I didn't like what happened! The middle kind of dragged and for the last thirty pages or so, it took me a few days--which I guess means I wasn't interested anymore. The ending made me groan. I don't think I'd recommend this one based on the whole story, but the set up and aliens were good.
April 7, 2020
As soon as I got into the Star Trek universe, I was positively thrilled to discover the sheer mountain of literature that has been published! I set about looking up the top must-read novels for Spock fans and was not disappointed in the slightest by Troublesome Minds. This novel offered great looks into the well-loved characters of the Enterprise as well as the astounding science and otherworldly marvel that I've come to expect and cherish in the Star Trek world. If you're up for a bit of Spock whump and a whole lot of adventure, this is the next Trekkie indulgence for you!
December 30, 2017
It would have been five, but the abrupt ending left me rattled and I would have appreciated a page or two more of closure. That said, it wasn't a bad ending, and definitely fit in with the tone of the rest of the book. Everyone's characterization was absolutely perfect, and this was a thoughtful exploration of telepathy and other forms of nonverbal communication.
June 16, 2019
Interesting read
This is my first star trek novel,and it combined the philosophical questions and action adventure we know from the show. This story involves the rescue of a troublesome mind, aka a telepathic individual so powerful that he subverts everything to his will, and the dilemma of rescuing people from an unintentional dictator.
This is my first star trek novel,and it combined the philosophical questions and action adventure we know from the show. This story involves the rescue of a troublesome mind, aka a telepathic individual so powerful that he subverts everything to his will, and the dilemma of rescuing people from an unintentional dictator.
June 16, 2022
I really enjoyed this TOS novel, the characters feel right, the pace and action is neatly plotted and the limited amount of new to book guest characters and locations is also refreshing for a Trek book.
A small quibble from me, one section has Uhura briefly take command followed by another where Sulu does (why both?).
A small quibble from me, one section has Uhura briefly take command followed by another where Sulu does (why both?).
March 4, 2024
My eyes were glued to this one. Has to do with a race of aliens with telepathic abilities, and it really calls into questions of agency when one of them is found out to be too powerful. Spock and his Vulcan abilities get involved, and there's some paranoia fuel for sure, ultimately leading to an ending that's surprisingly dark but feels earned by the story.
July 7, 2020
This book had it all! The voices seemed very true to the characters. Fantastic original series storyline which felt very true to that era.I was hoping there would be an audio version of this book but I'm glad I read it it was very entertaining!
July 7, 2021
Mind blowing read
A rather unique Trek novel that focused on Spock and his telepathic abilities. Interesting new aliens and a well constructed story. The regulars were handled very well & it truly felt like an episode of the original series.
A rather unique Trek novel that focused on Spock and his telepathic abilities. Interesting new aliens and a well constructed story. The regulars were handled very well & it truly felt like an episode of the original series.
January 29, 2017
A good solid story. The alien race was well written and different from the norm. Looking for more like this.
October 22, 2018
Really good book. Very fast pacing written. Would have been an amazing episode.
April 10, 2020
I❤️ Star Trek!
The original series is here in a very good story. Any fan will like this adventure of the Enterprise crew, like a visit with old friends.
The original series is here in a very good story. Any fan will like this adventure of the Enterprise crew, like a visit with old friends.
May 2, 2020
Inventive, well-written novel.
August 6, 2023
This is a winner. I won’t forget it. Spock’s mind meld with telepathic aliens. The ending was very surprising
January 26, 2025
The Enterprise Crew(especially Spock) deal with a level of telepathy they have never encountered before. Lots of ethical questions and decisions that must be made. Happy reading
September 13, 2015
I will admit that the cover is what first drew my attention to this novel but after finishing it; I have to say that it also worth buying for the story inside. I really enjoyed almost every aspect of this book as it reminded me of the old Star Trek episodes in that the story is entertaining but also morally complex at the same time.
This kind of adventure is the reason why the Prime Directive was instituted. It starts out with the best intentions but results in a potential galactic war with millions of lives on the line or just your run of mill mission while serving under Captain Kirk.
The novel begins with the Enterprise responding to a distress call. A troubled space ship that contains several life forms is about to be crushed by being pulled into a gas giant. In the process of the rescue mission the Enterprise is suddenly attack by several unidentified second-class ships and given a warning to leave the other ship to it’s fate. Since the ships are no match for the Enterprise they are able to rescue the life forms by beaming them aboard right before the ship is destroyed. The leader of the rescued group is named Berlis and he is member of a species known as Isitri. The Isitri do not have the capacity speak but are able to communicate through telepathy and they are also able to read minds. The crew of Enterprise come too really like Berlis especially Spock who is very sensitive to telepaths.
The Enterprise takes Berlis is taken back to his home planet which is a colony planet to the main Isitri planet. As soon as Berlis leaves the ship Kirk, Spock, Dr. McCoy, etc. that they were under his spell and realize that Berlis is has the ablity to control people. The Enterprise then travels to the Isitri home planet were they learn that Berlis was being put to death when he was inadvertently rescued. They explain that Berlis is considered a troublesome mind and a very dangerous individual. Troublesome minds come along every now and then in the Isitri species. Their telepathy is so strong that they can control the entire population of a planet and can dend people against their will. In the past this had lead to wars with their interstellar neighbors, the Odib.
The Odib and the Isitri entered into a treaty after the last war. Essentially, if the Isitri allow troublesome minds into their society then this considered an act of war and the Odib will destroy the Isitri’s home planet and their colony.
This puts Captain Kirk in a very tight spot. Because of his initial kindness he has essentially started a potentially brutal war. The rest of the plot involves the crew of the Enterprise scrambling to rectify the situation without the loss of lives. This becomes even more difficult when Berlis is able take control of Spock and he begins acting against Captain Kirk.
Mr. Galanter does an excellent job in handling the classic characters, Captain Kirk, Spock and Dr. McCoy. His dialogue is spot on and you can hear their voices as you read the novel. The relationship between the big three, Kirk, Spock and McCoy, is the strength behind this story as with any good Star Trek novel. His characterizations are well done and highly believable.
I also enjoyed the moral choices that Mr. Galanter puts in front of his characters. There are no easy ways out of the situation they put themselves in and they are forced to make tough decisions with real ramifications. Does Captain Kirk cross a moral line and take Berlis away from the connected minds of his people which is tantamount to killing him? Does he fight the Odib to stop them from slaughtering the Isitri? Needless to say, Captain Kirk and the boys have their hands full.
The ending is shocking and completely brutal. It caught me entirely by surprise but it is fitting conclusion to this enthralling story.
This is excellent addition to the Star Trek universe that harkens back to the glory days of the original series. I highly recommend this novel to any Star Trek fan and anyone who enjoys a good space adventure.
This kind of adventure is the reason why the Prime Directive was instituted. It starts out with the best intentions but results in a potential galactic war with millions of lives on the line or just your run of mill mission while serving under Captain Kirk.
The novel begins with the Enterprise responding to a distress call. A troubled space ship that contains several life forms is about to be crushed by being pulled into a gas giant. In the process of the rescue mission the Enterprise is suddenly attack by several unidentified second-class ships and given a warning to leave the other ship to it’s fate. Since the ships are no match for the Enterprise they are able to rescue the life forms by beaming them aboard right before the ship is destroyed. The leader of the rescued group is named Berlis and he is member of a species known as Isitri. The Isitri do not have the capacity speak but are able to communicate through telepathy and they are also able to read minds. The crew of Enterprise come too really like Berlis especially Spock who is very sensitive to telepaths.
The Enterprise takes Berlis is taken back to his home planet which is a colony planet to the main Isitri planet. As soon as Berlis leaves the ship Kirk, Spock, Dr. McCoy, etc. that they were under his spell and realize that Berlis is has the ablity to control people. The Enterprise then travels to the Isitri home planet were they learn that Berlis was being put to death when he was inadvertently rescued. They explain that Berlis is considered a troublesome mind and a very dangerous individual. Troublesome minds come along every now and then in the Isitri species. Their telepathy is so strong that they can control the entire population of a planet and can dend people against their will. In the past this had lead to wars with their interstellar neighbors, the Odib.
The Odib and the Isitri entered into a treaty after the last war. Essentially, if the Isitri allow troublesome minds into their society then this considered an act of war and the Odib will destroy the Isitri’s home planet and their colony.
This puts Captain Kirk in a very tight spot. Because of his initial kindness he has essentially started a potentially brutal war. The rest of the plot involves the crew of the Enterprise scrambling to rectify the situation without the loss of lives. This becomes even more difficult when Berlis is able take control of Spock and he begins acting against Captain Kirk.
Mr. Galanter does an excellent job in handling the classic characters, Captain Kirk, Spock and Dr. McCoy. His dialogue is spot on and you can hear their voices as you read the novel. The relationship between the big three, Kirk, Spock and McCoy, is the strength behind this story as with any good Star Trek novel. His characterizations are well done and highly believable.
I also enjoyed the moral choices that Mr. Galanter puts in front of his characters. There are no easy ways out of the situation they put themselves in and they are forced to make tough decisions with real ramifications. Does Captain Kirk cross a moral line and take Berlis away from the connected minds of his people which is tantamount to killing him? Does he fight the Odib to stop them from slaughtering the Isitri? Needless to say, Captain Kirk and the boys have their hands full.
The ending is shocking and completely brutal. It caught me entirely by surprise but it is fitting conclusion to this enthralling story.
This is excellent addition to the Star Trek universe that harkens back to the glory days of the original series. I highly recommend this novel to any Star Trek fan and anyone who enjoys a good space adventure.
January 27, 2016
"A choice, Spock told himself and Meshu, is the root of all morality. Without choice, one can have no moral code" (220).
Plot Summary:
While exploring unmapped territory in space, the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise responds to a distress call of a space vessel near destruction, not knowing that on board is a mysterious passenger by the name of Berlis who possess powerful telepathic powers that allow him to project his thoughts and will upon other people. As part of a peace treaty agreement with the neighboring aliens called Odib, Berlis is sentenced to death by his own people for being what they call a "troublesome mind": someone who is born with a powerful mind that is able to control and subsume the will of an entire populace.
First contact with the Isitri--an alien telepathic species that is able to communicate thoughts and emotions mentally--soon escalates into an interstellar war between the two alien species as a result of Captain Kirk's decision to save Berlis, a choice that inevitably becomes an ethical and moral dilemma in the novel.
My review:
Dave Galanter does a marvelous job of capturing through prose the attitudes, quirks, and personalities that constitute the characters of the original Star Trek series, making it seem as if one is actually watching an episode, an aspect that I have come to enjoy quite tremendously in all his works.
What I really liked, however, is the multi-layered story structure that Galanter constructs as it is in tune with the writing of the OST, adding substance to the characterization and plot. This can be seen with Berlis's character, as he poses a danger to both alien species and all of humanity as a result of his telepathic powers. The creation of such a character is an excellent plot device as it propels the conflict and action of the story forward while posing challenging questions about the Prime Directive and ethical choices one must make when faced with grave danger.
The character that takes the main role in this novel (logically) is Spock, as he inevitably mind-melds with Berlis and falls under his influence. Thus commences an internal struggle to regain his thoughts and will, a "battle of the wits" that provides further insight into Spock's character and reveals how the mind of a Vulcan functions, only adding to the richness of the character development and conflict of the story.
One thing I did notice is the manner in which the novel ended. Personally, I felt that the climax leading up to the denouement was lacking in suspense, making it feel somewhat "abrupt" and "contrived." I think the last chapter wrapped up all the remaining threads that needed to be closed, since the "conclusion" to the conflict is resolved a chapter earlier (in my opinion), hence the slow momentum of the last chapter that makes it seem as if the ending is "missing something" (this should not come as a surprise since there are a few episode of the OST that have a similar ending like this one). I mean, not anyone can conceive a thrilling and suspenseful climax and satisfactory ending, unless you are Alfred Hitchcock.
Nevertheless, I think Galanter is a talented author when it comes to writing within the parameters of the Star Trek universe, his ideas are always creative and fresh when it comes to story and plot.
I am one satisfied Trekkie, y'all! =)
Plot Summary:
While exploring unmapped territory in space, the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise responds to a distress call of a space vessel near destruction, not knowing that on board is a mysterious passenger by the name of Berlis who possess powerful telepathic powers that allow him to project his thoughts and will upon other people. As part of a peace treaty agreement with the neighboring aliens called Odib, Berlis is sentenced to death by his own people for being what they call a "troublesome mind": someone who is born with a powerful mind that is able to control and subsume the will of an entire populace.
First contact with the Isitri--an alien telepathic species that is able to communicate thoughts and emotions mentally--soon escalates into an interstellar war between the two alien species as a result of Captain Kirk's decision to save Berlis, a choice that inevitably becomes an ethical and moral dilemma in the novel.
My review:
Dave Galanter does a marvelous job of capturing through prose the attitudes, quirks, and personalities that constitute the characters of the original Star Trek series, making it seem as if one is actually watching an episode, an aspect that I have come to enjoy quite tremendously in all his works.
What I really liked, however, is the multi-layered story structure that Galanter constructs as it is in tune with the writing of the OST, adding substance to the characterization and plot. This can be seen with Berlis's character, as he poses a danger to both alien species and all of humanity as a result of his telepathic powers. The creation of such a character is an excellent plot device as it propels the conflict and action of the story forward while posing challenging questions about the Prime Directive and ethical choices one must make when faced with grave danger.
The character that takes the main role in this novel (logically) is Spock, as he inevitably mind-melds with Berlis and falls under his influence. Thus commences an internal struggle to regain his thoughts and will, a "battle of the wits" that provides further insight into Spock's character and reveals how the mind of a Vulcan functions, only adding to the richness of the character development and conflict of the story.
One thing I did notice is the manner in which the novel ended. Personally, I felt that the climax leading up to the denouement was lacking in suspense, making it feel somewhat "abrupt" and "contrived." I think the last chapter wrapped up all the remaining threads that needed to be closed, since the "conclusion" to the conflict is resolved a chapter earlier (in my opinion), hence the slow momentum of the last chapter that makes it seem as if the ending is "missing something" (this should not come as a surprise since there are a few episode of the OST that have a similar ending like this one). I mean, not anyone can conceive a thrilling and suspenseful climax and satisfactory ending, unless you are Alfred Hitchcock.
Nevertheless, I think Galanter is a talented author when it comes to writing within the parameters of the Star Trek universe, his ideas are always creative and fresh when it comes to story and plot.
I am one satisfied Trekkie, y'all! =)
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