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Star Trek: Typhon Pact #10 (The Fall)
The Crimson Shadow
Cardassia Prime is home to a prideful people who, for centuries, forged alliances with those they believed would strengthen them and their place in the Alpha Quadrant, and expanded their empire at great cost to other worlds. For generations, dissenting voices were silenced by either fear or an early grave. When their wartime ally, the Dominion, suddenly turned on them, seeking to transform Cardassia into a tomb for every last member of their race, their old adversary—the United Federation of Planets— put an end to the carnage, and even now works to help rebuild Cardassia Prime.
To celebrate this alliance, the Castellan of the Cardassian Union is to welcome the Federation president to Cardassia Prime. As a symbol of this deepening friendship, the U.S.S. Enterprise-E is tasked to carry the Cardassian ambassador to the Federation back home. For his part, Ambassador Elim Garak is working with Captain Jean-Luc Picard to oversee the diplomatic reception that will commemorate the last of Starfleet’s personnel finally leaving the homeworld. However, there are malevolent forces at work, who even now strive to “restore Cardassia to its proper place and glory,” and are willing to do anything to achieve their goal....
To celebrate this alliance, the Castellan of the Cardassian Union is to welcome the Federation president to Cardassia Prime. As a symbol of this deepening friendship, the U.S.S. Enterprise-E is tasked to carry the Cardassian ambassador to the Federation back home. For his part, Ambassador Elim Garak is working with Captain Jean-Luc Picard to oversee the diplomatic reception that will commemorate the last of Starfleet’s personnel finally leaving the homeworld. However, there are malevolent forces at work, who even now strive to “restore Cardassia to its proper place and glory,” and are willing to do anything to achieve their goal....
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2013
99 people are currently reading
863 people want to read
About the author
Una McCormack
103 books360 followersUna McCormack is a British writer and the author of several Star Trek novels and stories.
Ms. McCormack is a New York Times bestselling author. She has written four Doctor Who novels: The King's Dragon and The Way through the Woods (featuring the Eleventh Doctor, Amy, and Rory); Royal Blood (featuring the Twelfth Doctor and Clara), and Molten Heart (featuring the Thirteenth Doctor, Yaz, Ryan and Graham). She is also the author of numerous audio dramas for Big Finish Productions.
Ms. McCormack is a New York Times bestselling author. She has written four Doctor Who novels: The King's Dragon and The Way through the Woods (featuring the Eleventh Doctor, Amy, and Rory); Royal Blood (featuring the Twelfth Doctor and Clara), and Molten Heart (featuring the Thirteenth Doctor, Yaz, Ryan and Graham). She is also the author of numerous audio dramas for Big Finish Productions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
January 6, 2016
This is the second novel, part of the Star Trek book event titled The Fall. (To check my review about the first novel Revelation and Dust, you click HERE ). While I was enjoying more the experience of reading this second book of the event, I was pretty much convinced that I will rated with 3 stars anyway, however, when I reached the chapter 8, wow! Such amazing chapter that convinced me to gave it a 4-star rating, and when I reach chapter 10, WOW!, it was then that I realized that the book indeed deserved a 4-star rating. However, this not your typical The Next Generation novel. While you have Captain Picard and the crew of the USS Enterprise-E, they hardly are part of the main events. They play their parts well, but definitely the main protagonist here is Elim Garak. So, if you are fan of Garak character, definitely you have to read this book. Other thing that I liked a lot of this second part of the event was that while it's indeed the second book in an event, you can feel a sense of closure here, sure, there are still some pieces of the mystery unsolved but it's not like in the first book that you don't feel any closure at all, in here, you really feel that a mission was acomplished and the narrative of the book has an end. Maybe a small sin in the book is that it lacks to explain better some details of "the big thing" that happened on the first book, sure, it's expected that readers of this second novel has already read the first book, however, I think that while I didn't need myself, it couldn't be bad a fair resume of the highlights in the first book in the right moment inside of the narrative of this second novel. Don't expect much action here, in fact, there isn't any action at all, some tense moment but that's all. Also, you don't get much of science-fiction stuff. The strenght of the book is deposited on its solid political ambiance and excellent dialogues. This second book vindicated my faith in this book event, while the first book was kinda slow and inconclusive, this second novel is smart and brave, promising an interesting follow in the remaining three books of the event.
December 8, 2022
The Crimson Shadow is no doubt among the finest of Trek novels and a very fine work of sci-fi on the whole. Covering the period of reconstruction on Cardassia after the devastation of the Dominion war ten years prior the story closely follows a more mature and (slightly) less ruthless Garak and his efforts to preserve Cardassia's nascent democracy amidst a backlash from the dark corners of the former establishment. The story is taut and rich in political intrigue with a murder investigation at its core, a perfect fit for Garak's unique talents and personality, and paints a powerful picture of a brutal, proud and resilient civilization desperately trying to emerge from a dark, authoritarian past obsessed with conquest. McCormak's grasp of the characters and the Trek world is unparalleled and her writing is full of depth, subtlety and sentiment. Garak's voice is wholly authentic and as acerbic and witty as ever.
October 21, 2017
The Crimson Shadow is set in the STNG (Star Trek Next Generation) setting. In the wake of the events of the Dominion Wars, Cardassia Prime is in a state of civil unrest. While the Enterprise and some of its crew do make an appearance, this story isn't about them.
As Cardassia goes through internal upheavals Starfleet is worried that the new government could follow in the Andorian's footsteps and secede from the Federation. There are elements of the old, and now defunct, Obsidian Order that want a return to the authoritarian ways of the past.
Against this tide stands Elim Garak. Garak used to be the tailor on DS-9. But he is so much more than that. A former Intelligence operative of the Obsidian Order, garak's skills include surveillance, assassination and various other dark skills. Now a reformed member he struggles to help the Federation keep its hard won influence present on Cardassia.
What follows is a fairly interesting and somewhat complex plot to overthrow the current regime and replace it with a non-Federation friendly proto-Obsidian Order government.
Crimson Shadow was a nice, and relatively dark, Star trek story. While many of the main characters are only there for brief cameo appearances the story never suffers-as Garak is a great character to follow. As to all the double crosses and double dealings-I shall not sya more as this is a plot worth a Star Trek fan's time.
Fun, fast paced and action oriented Crimson Shadow is a great read for any fan of the Star trek universe.
As Cardassia goes through internal upheavals Starfleet is worried that the new government could follow in the Andorian's footsteps and secede from the Federation. There are elements of the old, and now defunct, Obsidian Order that want a return to the authoritarian ways of the past.
Against this tide stands Elim Garak. Garak used to be the tailor on DS-9. But he is so much more than that. A former Intelligence operative of the Obsidian Order, garak's skills include surveillance, assassination and various other dark skills. Now a reformed member he struggles to help the Federation keep its hard won influence present on Cardassia.
What follows is a fairly interesting and somewhat complex plot to overthrow the current regime and replace it with a non-Federation friendly proto-Obsidian Order government.
Crimson Shadow was a nice, and relatively dark, Star trek story. While many of the main characters are only there for brief cameo appearances the story never suffers-as Garak is a great character to follow. As to all the double crosses and double dealings-I shall not sya more as this is a plot worth a Star Trek fan's time.
Fun, fast paced and action oriented Crimson Shadow is a great read for any fan of the Star trek universe.
November 12, 2013
I skipped the first book of "The Fall" series since it didn't get the greatest reviews and this was the book I was really excited about. Una McCormack wrote "Never-ending Sacrifice," one of my favorite Star Trek books. In Never-Ending Sacrifice, she did such a fantastic job of fleshing out the world and people of Cardassia. Since this book deals mainly with Cardassia and everyone's favorite Cardassian, Garak, I knew I had to read this one right away.
I wasn't disappointed in the least. The only way I could see someone being disappointed with this book is if they are expecting an Enterprise-E story. Picard has his part in the novel and interacts very well with Garak, but he is not the main character here. Very few of the rest of crew even make appearances.
No. Make no mistakes. This is a Garak story. This is a Cardassia story. This is damned fine story.
It will also have lasting ramifications on the world of Star Trek literature. Major events happen in this book that can not be talked about without revealing major spoilers. Let's just say that, despite all of the rough times the Federation has seen in recent books, their darkest hour may still be yet to come.
I wasn't disappointed in the least. The only way I could see someone being disappointed with this book is if they are expecting an Enterprise-E story. Picard has his part in the novel and interacts very well with Garak, but he is not the main character here. Very few of the rest of crew even make appearances.
No. Make no mistakes. This is a Garak story. This is a Cardassia story. This is damned fine story.
It will also have lasting ramifications on the world of Star Trek literature. Major events happen in this book that can not be talked about without revealing major spoilers. Let's just say that, despite all of the rough times the Federation has seen in recent books, their darkest hour may still be yet to come.
July 1, 2014
Outstanding book. It's not been since Mack's Destiny series that I enjoyed a Trek book this much.
Warning: This is a Garak book. Almost no TNG, including Picard. They are all side characters. If you never liked DS9 and Garak, you'll hate this book. For lovers of Garak, it's required reading.
Warning: This is a Garak book. Almost no TNG, including Picard. They are all side characters. If you never liked DS9 and Garak, you'll hate this book. For lovers of Garak, it's required reading.
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October 14, 2015Excellent! At one point I was so distraught I wanted to toss the book violently across the room and sob inconsolably into my mug of red leaf tea.
September 28, 2023
This is the third Star Trek book by Una McCormack that I've read, after The Never-Ending Sacrifice and Brinkmanship, and she is comfortably the best of the continuation novelists that I've come across so far (although I have enjoyed some of Kirsten Beyer's Voyager stuff very much as well). Without wishing to be snotty about Trek novels in general - I do, after all, read them for a reason - McCormack's best efforts are the only ones I've read to this point which for me hold up as very good science fiction even if you take away the fan service and the legacy characters.
Where Brinkmanship, though enjoyable, was hamstrung in part by having to fit in with the overall arc of the generally so-so Typhon Pact series, this manages to avoid the same potential pitfalls as part of The Fall, and has the same richness as The Never-Ending Sacrifice (the remaining volumes in the series, by other Trek continuation regulars, have a hard act to follow). McCormack writes Cardassia and Cardassians so, so well, and in particular has absolutely nailed the voice and character of Garak - I could hear Andrew Robinson in my head the whole way through, and I can think of no higher praise.
Where Brinkmanship, though enjoyable, was hamstrung in part by having to fit in with the overall arc of the generally so-so Typhon Pact series, this manages to avoid the same potential pitfalls as part of The Fall, and has the same richness as The Never-Ending Sacrifice (the remaining volumes in the series, by other Trek continuation regulars, have a hard act to follow). McCormack writes Cardassia and Cardassians so, so well, and in particular has absolutely nailed the voice and character of Garak - I could hear Andrew Robinson in my head the whole way through, and I can think of no higher praise.
February 7, 2015
This was the first Una McCormack book I've read & I thoroughly enjoyed it. I had read that she had a sociology educational background & it really comes through in her writing. Because this book isn't just an action-packed thrill ride but is really more focused on the characters & their reactions to a destabilizing political landscape. She writes all the characters we know & love very accurately, which is always a big thing for me in an ST novel. I didn't read the previous novel in the series & even though I probably should've it didn't seem to matter in the least. But by the end I had decided to read the following books in the series & look forward to doing so with great anticipation. I recommend this book & will definitely read more of this author in the future.
June 12, 2025
One of the best Star Trek novels I've ever read. Well drawn characters, an intricate plot and a sense that what was happening was truly consequential within the book and for the series as a whole. Una McCormack has moved to my list of must-read Trek authors.
April 15, 2014
Really enjoyed this book and beginning to like anything written by this author. Good intense and political plot. Look forward to more if her writings!
June 2, 2015
Una McCormack is an excellent writer and I have always enjoyed her Star Trek books. Her stories are in-depth and a "cut above".
August 3, 2016
Loving the series- very Cardassian centered story starring Garak.
December 18, 2024
This series is so good!
May 27, 2019
The Crimson Shadow sees us getting an insight into the Cardassian People and what has been happening following the events of the Dominion War! :D We get to see a Cardassian society that is still deeply stratified but is trying to come together! :D Though as you would expect there are those that are trying to through spanners in the works! :D On top of this fermenting apple cart are thrown in the Federation politics as Picard and Co have to deliver the Cardassian Ambassador Garak back to the Cardassia Prime! :D This is all in advance of the Federation leaving Cardassia as an occupying force! :D Politics abound throughout and Garak finds himself beset by Cardassian politics and public appearances! :D At the same time Picard has to deal with the fallout from previous books, while at the same time with Federation President Ishan, his Chief of Staff Velk Rakena Garan! :D At the same time we get to catch up with and meet characters such as Mhevet, Akaar, Dygan etc and get to see how they tie into the ongoing overall plot in ways that you would not expect! :D
At the same time the book has the detective vibe running throughout it! :D The Book feels like a mystery evolving with epic edges! :D At the same time the book has humour in bucket loads with Mhevet and Dygan's cunning escapes, Starfleet offices stretching regs etc! :D Work also with Commander Fry make a great team! :D
The whole book flows brilliantly from the start, at the same time neatly tying up with the overall plotline perfectly as well! :D The Crimson Shadow is a brilliant who-dun-nit, grand-standing book full of mysteries, Cardassian-Federation politics, nefarious baddies, heroic good people, and shades of grey everywhere, full of action and adventure! :D Brilliant Crisp High Five! :D Make sure you have the next one! :D
At the same time the book has the detective vibe running throughout it! :D The Book feels like a mystery evolving with epic edges! :D At the same time the book has humour in bucket loads with Mhevet and Dygan's cunning escapes, Starfleet offices stretching regs etc! :D Work also with Commander Fry make a great team! :D
The whole book flows brilliantly from the start, at the same time neatly tying up with the overall plotline perfectly as well! :D The Crimson Shadow is a brilliant who-dun-nit, grand-standing book full of mysteries, Cardassian-Federation politics, nefarious baddies, heroic good people, and shades of grey everywhere, full of action and adventure! :D Brilliant Crisp High Five! :D Make sure you have the next one! :D
March 16, 2014
The Crimson Shadow continues "The Fall" series of Star Trek books, it is highly suggested you read them in order. Similar to the book "The Never Ending Sacrifice" this one takes place entirely on Cardassia and is heavily focused on its politics. This book centers on the Federation withdrawing from the planet following the Dominion War and starts out innocently enough as a murder mystery novel that spirals into something much larger. The question, "Who killed that Bajoran Starfleet officer?" starts simple with solving the murder, but that leads down several other more interesting paths such as, "Why did this happen here and now?", "Is it all as it seems?" and "Who is really behind all this?" These questions are interwoven with political intrigue. Because of the large number of characters, there are a number of story lines in The Crimson Shadow and it can be a little difficult to keep every character in mind.
Although The Crimson Shadow is a Star Trek: The Next Generation novel, it is very heavily focused on Elim Garak from Deep Space Nine and his role as Cardassian ambassador to the Federation. Many of the chapters have a letter addressed to his long-time friend Doctor Bashir and these act as a sort of preamble which offers a glimpse to Garak's frame of mind. The reader watches Garak start off merely as someone executing his job as ambassador to one widely expanding his authority, much to the annoyance of the Cardassian leader, to keep the fragile alliance they have with the Khitomer Accords nations and the rebuilding of their society from falling apart.
This is a very interesting book and anyone who enjoys a good crime novel will like it. Fans of The Next Generation may be disappointed as they have a very minor role. Before reading this book, I suggest not only reading the first novel in series, but also "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: The Never Ending Sacrifice" and "Worlds of Deep Space Nine Cardassia and Andor" for greater context.
Although The Crimson Shadow is a Star Trek: The Next Generation novel, it is very heavily focused on Elim Garak from Deep Space Nine and his role as Cardassian ambassador to the Federation. Many of the chapters have a letter addressed to his long-time friend Doctor Bashir and these act as a sort of preamble which offers a glimpse to Garak's frame of mind. The reader watches Garak start off merely as someone executing his job as ambassador to one widely expanding his authority, much to the annoyance of the Cardassian leader, to keep the fragile alliance they have with the Khitomer Accords nations and the rebuilding of their society from falling apart.
This is a very interesting book and anyone who enjoys a good crime novel will like it. Fans of The Next Generation may be disappointed as they have a very minor role. Before reading this book, I suggest not only reading the first novel in series, but also "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: The Never Ending Sacrifice" and "Worlds of Deep Space Nine Cardassia and Andor" for greater context.
September 27, 2013
Leave it to another book focusing on Garak -- the most sublime of all "Star Trek" characters -- to become the best "Star Trek" novel I've read since...well...since the last Garak focused novel. These recent Typhon Pact-era books have been extraordinary: sophisticated, intelligent, powerful reads, and this one is particularly exceptional. Una McCormack has demonstrated such a command of the DS9-influenced corners of this universe that I'd be more than willing to have her write every "Trek" novel from this point...preferably side by side with James Swallow & David R. George III. This book is for people who think "Star Trek - Into Darkness" is the height of what Roddenberry's universe can produce. In terms of depth, this blows the Abrams pastiche into the nearest singularity.
January 17, 2014
It took me a while to get into this book. Some of my least favorite Star Trek episodes have involved criminal investigations, and I generally have not enjoyed when the crime-drama genre has been grafted into the series. I gave the evolving plot line a chance, though, and came to really enjoy the character of the Cardassian investigator. I also received a better understanding of the Garak character from DS9. The Enterprise crew have relatively minor roles in this book, as the author is very focused on fleshing out Cardassian society, and moving along plot points being developed for the Typhon Pact arc of the book series.
October 4, 2013
OMFG HUZZAH! HE'S NOT DEAD! That made me really sad for a minute. I should have known better.
March 26, 2020
Fantastic novel. I couldn't put it down (except when life intervened), and every page had an interesting and compelling twist. Highly recommended.
February 8, 2025
Round this up to 4.5 stars. This is a wonderful Star Trek story.
March 22, 2023
"'I did it for Cardassia.' 'I'm sure you did. But Cardassia's moved on...'"(311). Once again, Una McCormack gives us the Cardassian politics content we want and deserve. The Crimson Shadow brings us to a Cardassia 10 years out from the Dominion War; a society cobbled together from tenacity, rubble, and Federation plasticrete. A society determined not to fall back into its destructive past. But at the critical moment of impending Federation withdrawal, a dangerous political faction makes itself known, and all hell breaks loose. Elim Garak, now ambassador to the Federation, and Captain Picard find themselves caught in the middle of assassination plots and government take-overs, and must put a stop to it before Cardassia once again finds itself on the isolationist, imperialist path.
Una McCormack understands Cardassia and its people so well. I appreciate so much how far she elevates the allegory of Cardassian society, forcing the reader to reflect on just how frighteningly similar Cardassia's past is to our own (in Western civilization).This book also is scarily prescient. Although it was published in 2013, it creates such a good metaphor for Trump’s rise to power and how easy it is for his followers to get sucked into doing vile shit just for some sense of nationalism and community. This has obviously happened before in history—I’m curious what events McCormack had in mind while writing this book.
Aside from the political thriller of it all, The Crimson Shadow treats its characters with excellent care. I love Garak in this story. He's quite a different man now than at the end of Deep Space Nine, or even in A Stitch in Time, but it's clear to see how his past shaped him into who he has become these many years later. His emotional journey is poignant, and his interactions with Picard are excellent. It's only now after all Garak's trials and maturation that these two men could possibly be friends and equals. Although it's hilarious to imagine how infuriating it would have been for Picard to interact with the Garak of the past.
The supporting cast--both original and established characters--are also wonderfully done. Although I'm not inclined to side with law enforcement, I really enjoyed Arati Mhevet as a character, and I hope she's able to bring about positive reform. And of course there's Kelas Parmak, absolute angel. The trust and intimacy of his and Garak's relationship is clear and although Kelas doesn't feature often, his scenes are so precious. His friendship and forgiveness are the best things to have happened to Garak.
And then there's Julian... Julian's presence pervades this novel, even though he's not there in person or in correspondence for most of the story. I love the use of letters to Julian to reveal Garak’s mood and thoughts at the beginning of each chapter. Although it is heartbreaking to see them go from long messages full of humor and hope to brisk notes of grief and doubt. These letters act as a diary, since many go unsent, and Julian never even responds until the very end of the story. But as infuriating as Julian's absence is, it does allow Garak to shine as a character on his own.
Lastly, this book is actually the second in a five-book series called The Fall, with each book written by a different author. However, it works perfectly well as a stand-alone story, and I didn't feel I was missing anything from not having read the first book. A must-read for all Garak stans!
Una McCormack understands Cardassia and its people so well. I appreciate so much how far she elevates the allegory of Cardassian society, forcing the reader to reflect on just how frighteningly similar Cardassia's past is to our own (in Western civilization).This book also is scarily prescient. Although it was published in 2013, it creates such a good metaphor for Trump’s rise to power and how easy it is for his followers to get sucked into doing vile shit just for some sense of nationalism and community. This has obviously happened before in history—I’m curious what events McCormack had in mind while writing this book.
Aside from the political thriller of it all, The Crimson Shadow treats its characters with excellent care. I love Garak in this story. He's quite a different man now than at the end of Deep Space Nine, or even in A Stitch in Time, but it's clear to see how his past shaped him into who he has become these many years later. His emotional journey is poignant, and his interactions with Picard are excellent. It's only now after all Garak's trials and maturation that these two men could possibly be friends and equals. Although it's hilarious to imagine how infuriating it would have been for Picard to interact with the Garak of the past.
The supporting cast--both original and established characters--are also wonderfully done. Although I'm not inclined to side with law enforcement, I really enjoyed Arati Mhevet as a character, and I hope she's able to bring about positive reform. And of course there's Kelas Parmak, absolute angel. The trust and intimacy of his and Garak's relationship is clear and although Kelas doesn't feature often, his scenes are so precious. His friendship and forgiveness are the best things to have happened to Garak.
And then there's Julian... Julian's presence pervades this novel, even though he's not there in person or in correspondence for most of the story. I love the use of letters to Julian to reveal Garak’s mood and thoughts at the beginning of each chapter. Although it is heartbreaking to see them go from long messages full of humor and hope to brisk notes of grief and doubt. These letters act as a diary, since many go unsent, and Julian never even responds until the very end of the story. But as infuriating as Julian's absence is, it does allow Garak to shine as a character on his own.
Lastly, this book is actually the second in a five-book series called The Fall, with each book written by a different author. However, it works perfectly well as a stand-alone story, and I didn't feel I was missing anything from not having read the first book. A must-read for all Garak stans!
December 24, 2017
After ten years of reconstruction, the Federation is preparing to leave Cardassia. Not all the locals gathering outside are there to wish its engineers and social workers a fare-thee-well, however. A new political movement representing the old Cardassia is growing in strength, and styles itself "Cardassia First". Infiltrating civil institutions and orchestrating riots, it promises to field a candidate against the Federation-friendly administration and disrupt Cardassia's growing relationship with the Federation and its allies. Worse yet, a high-profile political assassination puts both powers on the edge of falling away from one another. Assassinations and unruly mobs, with the fate of Cardassia hanging in the balance -- this looks like a job for....Garak, Intergalactic Man of Mystery!
No longer the mere mysterious spy-turned-tailor of Deep Space Nine, Garak is Cardassia's ambassador to Earth, having previously served in other Reconstruction governments.The Garak of Crimson Shadow has grown much from the Garak of the television show, who was already complex. Garak's past association with an organization so ominous that it chills Cardassian spines fifteen years after its demise has left him with blood on his hands that cannot be rubbed out. His conscience was once becalmed by the thought that he was acting for the good for Cardassia, in the service of the State, but witnessing nearly a trillion deaths and the obliteration of so much of what he loved has broken Garak's faith. Now, ever wrestling with his conscience, he hopes to help Cardassia find a new way -- one that includes more engagement with the rest of the Quadrant -- and gropes for how to fight monsters without again becoming a monster himself. Garak hasn't hung up his cloak and dagger for good, though, as he proves to have a few tricks up his sleeve that don't involve discretely killing someone. This quandry is also present in the stories of several police officers, who are trying to establish and protect their Constabulary's integrity after past versions of it were co-opted by the State to hurt the people. One of the few non-Cardassian characters here is Jean Luc Picard, who with Garak has to somehow mitigate the damage that each man's civil superiors threatens to wreack in the wake of both books' events.
I enjoyed The Crimson Shadow enormously, as I'm partial to Cardassian stories and especially to Garak. While there's still a little obviousness in how McCormack portrays her villains, she did introduce an interesting idea about the origin of the Obsidian Order. Her portrayal of Garak, as he and his castellan (president) try to navigate away from the sirens that might destroy them, even as they attract so many citizens, more than makes up for the mustache-twirling antagonists. As a bonus, McCormack indirectly quoted CS Lewis, when she makes Garak observe that people are much more dangerous when their tyranny is effected with sincere intentions to help others. A comparative Lewis quote is here.
No longer the mere mysterious spy-turned-tailor of Deep Space Nine, Garak is Cardassia's ambassador to Earth, having previously served in other Reconstruction governments.The Garak of Crimson Shadow has grown much from the Garak of the television show, who was already complex. Garak's past association with an organization so ominous that it chills Cardassian spines fifteen years after its demise has left him with blood on his hands that cannot be rubbed out. His conscience was once becalmed by the thought that he was acting for the good for Cardassia, in the service of the State, but witnessing nearly a trillion deaths and the obliteration of so much of what he loved has broken Garak's faith. Now, ever wrestling with his conscience, he hopes to help Cardassia find a new way -- one that includes more engagement with the rest of the Quadrant -- and gropes for how to fight monsters without again becoming a monster himself. Garak hasn't hung up his cloak and dagger for good, though, as he proves to have a few tricks up his sleeve that don't involve discretely killing someone. This quandry is also present in the stories of several police officers, who are trying to establish and protect their Constabulary's integrity after past versions of it were co-opted by the State to hurt the people. One of the few non-Cardassian characters here is Jean Luc Picard, who with Garak has to somehow mitigate the damage that each man's civil superiors threatens to wreack in the wake of both books' events.
I enjoyed The Crimson Shadow enormously, as I'm partial to Cardassian stories and especially to Garak. While there's still a little obviousness in how McCormack portrays her villains, she did introduce an interesting idea about the origin of the Obsidian Order. Her portrayal of Garak, as he and his castellan (president) try to navigate away from the sirens that might destroy them, even as they attract so many citizens, more than makes up for the mustache-twirling antagonists. As a bonus, McCormack indirectly quoted CS Lewis, when she makes Garak observe that people are much more dangerous when their tyranny is effected with sincere intentions to help others. A comparative Lewis quote is here.
October 5, 2017
4 and a half stars, verging on five. It's not quite as excellent as "The Never-Ending Sacrifice"; unlike that novel, I don't think "Crimson Shadow" could be read as a straight SF novel by a non-trekker. But this is still an extremely good book.
I am biased, because I'm a passionate Niner and I love Elim Garak. But "the Crimson Shadow" is objectively well-written and almost scarily relevant.
On a conquered, damaged world, people struggle to pick up the pieces and get on with their lives. A new power is starting to rise--right-wing nationalists who are not averse to violence. A jobless young veteran enters their ranks.
In the meantime, a Federation crewman, part of the reconstruction forces (think the British or Americans in postwar Japan or Germany) is found dead. Two little girls find his body. One of them has seen more than she should. If the murderer finds her, she is likely to end up dead herself.
The occupation forces--now the reconstruction forces--are due to leave the planet. Cardassia is about to sign a treaty and formally enter the Khitomer accords; this could be their first step toward membership in the Federation itself. But the threat of violence from right-wing groups, and even civll war, is rising. On the streets, the young veteran and a young Cardassian policewoman pursue their own ideas of justice. Elim Garak, now ambassador to the Federation, has returned to his beloved homeworld for the first time in years. He tries to support his Castellan in her quest for peace and freedom. But the right-wingers aren't just street thugs. They have infiltrated the police, and possibly even the Federation offices. Then there is another murder--
At once a mystery, an examination of culture and literature (Garak presents Captain Picard with a Cardassian classic, and he himself has become a huge fan of classic Terran literature during his exile), and a political thriller, this kept me riveted till the end. Like its sequel, the story is framed in a series of letters from Garak to his friend, Julian Bashir. As in my earlier review, I'd like to quote from one of them:
(Garak is describing the Cardassian grieving ritual to Julian)
"I had no perek flowers, which was another grief....Still, I had my knife, and I had my voice, so I cut across my hand and let the blood drip on the ground, and I chanted all their names: Tolan, Tain, Ziyal, Mila, Damar. Does it surprise you that Tain's name was on the list? It might surprise you even more that I added Dukat.*
I chanted his name because no one else would. Somebody has to remember him. Otherwise we'll forget." (page 143. Pocket books edition.)
Oh, one more thing before I end this rambling review. Reading this book made me want to read "The Master and Margarita". Any book that makes me so curious about another has something to recommend it!
*Skrain Dukat is pretty much the Cardassian equivalent of Hitler. Tain, Garak's natural father, was in essence the head of the Stasi/KGB/CIA, and responsible for many crimes.
I am biased, because I'm a passionate Niner and I love Elim Garak. But "the Crimson Shadow" is objectively well-written and almost scarily relevant.
On a conquered, damaged world, people struggle to pick up the pieces and get on with their lives. A new power is starting to rise--right-wing nationalists who are not averse to violence. A jobless young veteran enters their ranks.
In the meantime, a Federation crewman, part of the reconstruction forces (think the British or Americans in postwar Japan or Germany) is found dead. Two little girls find his body. One of them has seen more than she should. If the murderer finds her, she is likely to end up dead herself.
The occupation forces--now the reconstruction forces--are due to leave the planet. Cardassia is about to sign a treaty and formally enter the Khitomer accords; this could be their first step toward membership in the Federation itself. But the threat of violence from right-wing groups, and even civll war, is rising. On the streets, the young veteran and a young Cardassian policewoman pursue their own ideas of justice. Elim Garak, now ambassador to the Federation, has returned to his beloved homeworld for the first time in years. He tries to support his Castellan in her quest for peace and freedom. But the right-wingers aren't just street thugs. They have infiltrated the police, and possibly even the Federation offices. Then there is another murder--
At once a mystery, an examination of culture and literature (Garak presents Captain Picard with a Cardassian classic, and he himself has become a huge fan of classic Terran literature during his exile), and a political thriller, this kept me riveted till the end. Like its sequel, the story is framed in a series of letters from Garak to his friend, Julian Bashir. As in my earlier review, I'd like to quote from one of them:
(Garak is describing the Cardassian grieving ritual to Julian)
"I had no perek flowers, which was another grief....Still, I had my knife, and I had my voice, so I cut across my hand and let the blood drip on the ground, and I chanted all their names: Tolan, Tain, Ziyal, Mila, Damar. Does it surprise you that Tain's name was on the list? It might surprise you even more that I added Dukat.*
I chanted his name because no one else would. Somebody has to remember him. Otherwise we'll forget." (page 143. Pocket books edition.)
Oh, one more thing before I end this rambling review. Reading this book made me want to read "The Master and Margarita". Any book that makes me so curious about another has something to recommend it!
*Skrain Dukat is pretty much the Cardassian equivalent of Hitler. Tain, Garak's natural father, was in essence the head of the Stasi/KGB/CIA, and responsible for many crimes.
March 3, 2021
Ok, technically this is a 3.5 star, but I'll give it 4 because looking back at all the books that lead up to this, this one was somewhere in the middle.
To start off, if you're like me and want to know more about Garak, Cardassia and all those wonderful (awful, terrible) characters, don't be like me and start at the end (with Enigma Tales, which I feel I should re-read now that I'm all caught up).
Wanna know Garak's backstory? Start with Robinson's A Stitch In Time
Wanna know what it was like being a Cardassian during The Fire and Dominion War? Read it from Rugal's POV in The Never Ending Sacrifice (the beginning of the Cardassian books by Una McCormack)
What about Garak after the War and he makes it back to Cardassia after becoming an Ambassador? Next on your list is this book, Crimson Shadow, then.
How do you sum it up all neatly (enough)? Finish with Enigma Tales.
I really wish I had started with this one, at least, before reading Enigma Tales. There are some great characters that Una has created that continue on into ET. I think that's definitely her strength is in her characters. Yeah, it gets a bit slow in places, and I am easily confused when there's a lot of characters to follow (and having similar names starting with the same letter just does me in). But all in all, a great book to read if you're interested in what is going on in Cardassia about a decade after The Fire and how things are holding up politics-wise (not well and shadily) and what Garak is up to (being his wonderful sassy self and taking on too much at once, but happy to be home). And Parmak. Lovely, wonderful Parmak.
To start off, if you're like me and want to know more about Garak, Cardassia and all those wonderful (awful, terrible) characters, don't be like me and start at the end (with Enigma Tales, which I feel I should re-read now that I'm all caught up).
Wanna know Garak's backstory? Start with Robinson's A Stitch In Time
Wanna know what it was like being a Cardassian during The Fire and Dominion War? Read it from Rugal's POV in The Never Ending Sacrifice (the beginning of the Cardassian books by Una McCormack)
What about Garak after the War and he makes it back to Cardassia after becoming an Ambassador? Next on your list is this book, Crimson Shadow, then.
How do you sum it up all neatly (enough)? Finish with Enigma Tales.
I really wish I had started with this one, at least, before reading Enigma Tales. There are some great characters that Una has created that continue on into ET. I think that's definitely her strength is in her characters. Yeah, it gets a bit slow in places, and I am easily confused when there's a lot of characters to follow (and having similar names starting with the same letter just does me in). But all in all, a great book to read if you're interested in what is going on in Cardassia about a decade after The Fire and how things are holding up politics-wise (not well and shadily) and what Garak is up to (being his wonderful sassy self and taking on too much at once, but happy to be home). And Parmak. Lovely, wonderful Parmak.
June 1, 2020
This is probably the lowest I've ever rated a Trek book, though it would've been lower had it not been for how great Garak is. Crimson Shadow (CS) is the second novel in The Fall series, and may very well be the only one I read within the story line... I haven't made this decision yet because I know each entry is by a different author, and have read that the over-arcing plot line is loosely connected in lieu of subplots. It's clear this opinion is in the minority regarding CS, but I can't get over how plodding and dull this was; barely recognizable as ST beyond a few character names and places.
Una McCormack seems like a capable writer, so I'm not opposed to giving some of her other works a try, though I don't care for her over-long chapters. CS however didn't seem to know what kind of book it wanted to be. Political drama, spy thriller, murder mystery...? It certainly wasn't science fiction, action or adventure, and it didn't pull off any of those other genres adequately enough to fall under them either. To me it felt like a discarded script to the TV show 24 without any of the action or tension. Take away the known Trek terms/people/places, this could easily be a run of the mill political thriller, sans thrill.
I'm all for a deep dive into an alien society, but Cardassians have lived under the rule of the military for probably over a century, and in just ten short years they've devolved into modern day western culture? I don't believe that for a second. A Bajoran becoming Federation President pro tem when they've been part of the UFP for what, eight years? This was only thrown in to add pseudo-drama to a story involving their biggest enemy.
I had to take a break from reading CS, and the book in between I completed in the time it took me to get halfway through CS. I'm not a very fast reader to begin with, but it was a slog getting through this book. If you like the direction Star Trek has been going since 2009, you may enjoy this book/series. However, unless you’re a completest, or desperate for something with ST in the title while under quarantine, I wouldn't recommend Crimson Shadow.
Una McCormack seems like a capable writer, so I'm not opposed to giving some of her other works a try, though I don't care for her over-long chapters. CS however didn't seem to know what kind of book it wanted to be. Political drama, spy thriller, murder mystery...? It certainly wasn't science fiction, action or adventure, and it didn't pull off any of those other genres adequately enough to fall under them either. To me it felt like a discarded script to the TV show 24 without any of the action or tension. Take away the known Trek terms/people/places, this could easily be a run of the mill political thriller, sans thrill.
I'm all for a deep dive into an alien society, but Cardassians have lived under the rule of the military for probably over a century, and in just ten short years they've devolved into modern day western culture? I don't believe that for a second. A Bajoran becoming Federation President pro tem when they've been part of the UFP for what, eight years? This was only thrown in to add pseudo-drama to a story involving their biggest enemy.
I had to take a break from reading CS, and the book in between I completed in the time it took me to get halfway through CS. I'm not a very fast reader to begin with, but it was a slog getting through this book. If you like the direction Star Trek has been going since 2009, you may enjoy this book/series. However, unless you’re a completest, or desperate for something with ST in the title while under quarantine, I wouldn't recommend Crimson Shadow.
March 16, 2025
Star Trek: Post-Nemesis era: The Fall 02 The Crimson Shadow by Una McCormack
challenging dark hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad tense
Medium-paced
Plot or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters are a main focus? Yes
4.25 Stars
This is a political thriller, with the use of subterfuge and spies...to get to the truth, and to avert a political enemy from rising to power. Is the one that one, the enemy OR the way out of the dark past that has plagued the Cardassians?
This story revolves around the death of a character we've loved since we met him on DS9. It's a "who dunnit" with a twist.
The minor characters are so well used, but ultimately, the main protagonist of this story...is so much fun to be in his head. The fight to be the person he should be, versus the person that he was, and can be...AGAIN.
We also lost someone VERY special to the Federation....and this loss hurts everyone who knew, and most loved...especially those who were closest to them.
Cardassia and the Federation are at a crossroads. Progress has been made, since before and after the Dominion War, but there is still SO much that needs to happen to be sure of their TURN to the "right side" (whatever that truly means).
I really enjoyed this book, and am glad to be back in the Star Trek: Post-Nemesis era...and will be picking up book three of The Fall, A Ceremony of Losses.
challenging dark hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad tense
Medium-paced
Plot or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters are a main focus? Yes
4.25 Stars
This is a political thriller, with the use of subterfuge and spies...to get to the truth, and to avert a political enemy from rising to power. Is the one that one, the enemy OR the way out of the dark past that has plagued the Cardassians?
This story revolves around the death of a character we've loved since we met him on DS9. It's a "who dunnit" with a twist.
The minor characters are so well used, but ultimately, the main protagonist of this story...is so much fun to be in his head. The fight to be the person he should be, versus the person that he was, and can be...AGAIN.
We also lost someone VERY special to the Federation....and this loss hurts everyone who knew, and most loved...especially those who were closest to them.
Cardassia and the Federation are at a crossroads. Progress has been made, since before and after the Dominion War, but there is still SO much that needs to happen to be sure of their TURN to the "right side" (whatever that truly means).
I really enjoyed this book, and am glad to be back in the Star Trek: Post-Nemesis era...and will be picking up book three of The Fall, A Ceremony of Losses.
July 3, 2017
Well. After reading "Hollow Men", which was anentertaining little book fitting within a gap in canon, I decided to take on TCS. Having skimmed the first book in "The Fall" series, I was positive I'd understand. And oh boy did I understand. This book is... bad is not the word, because Ms. McCormack can write and I even enjoy her style. But I simply cannot enjoy - or even buy, or believe - the content of what she writes. Her vision of post-canon Cardassia tries very hard to mirror post-WWII Germany, but it simply doesn't work, either out-of-universe or in-universe (especially in-universe, the amount of resources the Federation seems to be pumping into Cardassia when they've just barely survived "Destiny" themselves mere four years earlier). Those things throw you out of the reading trance, so to speak. And then, Garak. A beloved character of many, myself included. Never, in a million years, could I imagine him doing half of the things he does in this book. I consider this book's Garak wildly out-of-character, and that's a shame, because 1) this is the closest we'll ever get to finding out what happened post-canon, and 2) this is how Garak will continue to be written over the course of the following books.
January 6, 2022
I think I'd rate this a 4.5 overall. Una McCormack's Cardassian world building is brilliant as always, but the removal of the Castellan could have been explained just a touch better. I think I understand why her failings don't also apply to Garak, but it could have been a sharper conclusion. Loved Arati Mhevet and the other minor characters that were introduced. Garak was a really interesting character, his descent into panic over Cardassia's fate - especially his desperate scene with Garan - was very well done. I made the mistake of reading Enigma Tales out of order so most of the big shocking moments in this book had already been spoiled for me, but I still really enjoyed it.
I really like the thing McCormack does with the Cardassian books, where she picks an in-universe Cardassian novel to mirror her novel's plot - it's a cool touch.
The bad guys in this novel had been set up in little scenes over a few previous books and so had obviously been long planned out, I hope we get more in conclusion from them as it would be disappointing to have so much gradual build up and then have them disappear so quickly. Keen to read more!
I really like the thing McCormack does with the Cardassian books, where she picks an in-universe Cardassian novel to mirror her novel's plot - it's a cool touch.
The bad guys in this novel had been set up in little scenes over a few previous books and so had obviously been long planned out, I hope we get more in conclusion from them as it would be disappointing to have so much gradual build up and then have them disappear so quickly. Keen to read more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2017
Wow. A fantastic story that stands with the greatest Star Trek books I've read so far. What makes a government? What are the responsibilities of the people who are a part of it? How fragile are such responsibilities and what can fracture them? What happens when the government as an entity becomes more cherished than what it's supposed to stand for?Can someone who has committed so many heinous acts in his past overcome them to become a reformed person? This novel asks all these questions and more in an incredibly well written tale set on Cardassia ten years after the decimation of the Cardassian people at the end of the Dominion War on Deep Space Nine. Garak takes center stage here and continues to be one of the most interesting characters in all of Trek. Una McCormack clearly gets the character is such a complete way. Everything he said and did felt 100% true to who he was on the TV series. Best part about the book is that you can read it as a standalone story if you want to do so. Very highly recommended.
February 13, 2021
I did not read the other books in "The Fall" series nor do I intend to. I picked this one simply because it's Garak-centric and I'm in the mood for Garak-centric novels apparently. ;-)
As to the timeline of Garak novels, this one occurs before "Enigma Tales".
Picard and Worf and very briefly Beverly make an appearance, but 90 % of the novel focus on Cardassian politics and sociology. All in all, I preferred "Enigma Tales" because it has a wistful/haunting quality that this book lacks. Still, I was captivated by all the scheming going on, absolutely loved the Garak scenes ("electric blue" comes to mind) and enjoyed his literary gift exchange with Picard. So neat to have Bulgakov's "The Master and Margarita" come up in a Star Trek novel. Oh, and Garak reading "Emma" by Jane Austen for relaxation also made me smile.
Last but not least, the final two chapters of this book stood out for me: They cover endings and beginnings and touch on despair and hope.
As to the timeline of Garak novels, this one occurs before "Enigma Tales".
Picard and Worf and very briefly Beverly make an appearance, but 90 % of the novel focus on Cardassian politics and sociology. All in all, I preferred "Enigma Tales" because it has a wistful/haunting quality that this book lacks. Still, I was captivated by all the scheming going on, absolutely loved the Garak scenes ("electric blue" comes to mind) and enjoyed his literary gift exchange with Picard. So neat to have Bulgakov's "The Master and Margarita" come up in a Star Trek novel. Oh, and Garak reading "Emma" by Jane Austen for relaxation also made me smile.
Last but not least, the final two chapters of this book stood out for me: They cover endings and beginnings and touch on despair and hope.
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