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A new Star Trek adventure based on the thrilling Paramount+ TV seriesStar Trek: Strange New Worlds!
When Una Chin-Riley and Christopher Pike meet at Starfleet Academy after one of his lectures, they immediately become friends. A stellar student, Una is the “poster girl” of her class, and Pike is determined to become a Starfleet captain with his own ship, rhetorically assembling his dream crew. As their friendship evolves, Pike also suspects Una is involved with the Euxhana, a Chionian cultural minority, who are seeking asylum in Federation space, leading to more questions than answers.
Twenty-five years later, Una and Pike are working together on the USS Enterprise to settle a Chionian trade agreement when a pro-Euxhana saboteur launches a terrorist attack. When the suspect is taken into custody for interrogation and is discovered to have a history with Una, her past associations resurface, threatening to expose a secret she’s been harboring all these years…
When Una Chin-Riley and Christopher Pike meet at Starfleet Academy after one of his lectures, they immediately become friends. A stellar student, Una is the “poster girl” of her class, and Pike is determined to become a Starfleet captain with his own ship, rhetorically assembling his dream crew. As their friendship evolves, Pike also suspects Una is involved with the Euxhana, a Chionian cultural minority, who are seeking asylum in Federation space, leading to more questions than answers.
Twenty-five years later, Una and Pike are working together on the USS Enterprise to settle a Chionian trade agreement when a pro-Euxhana saboteur launches a terrorist attack. When the suspect is taken into custody for interrogation and is discovered to have a history with Una, her past associations resurface, threatening to expose a secret she’s been harboring all these years…
307 pages, Hardcover
First published November 4, 2024
119 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Una McCormack
108 books359 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 74 reviews
November 6, 2024
My only previous experience with Una McCormack was the Deep Space Nine relaunch novel The Missing, which was merely an okay science fiction novel of first contact and a poor Star Trek novel, so I wasn’t sure what to expect of Asylum, her Strange New Worlds novel . . . but I’m delighted to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. Where I felt as if character voices were almost entirely unrecognizable in her DS9 entry, here they were so strong that I could ‘hear’ the episode in my head.
For those wondering when the story takes place, it’s sometime during or after the most recent season, with Una Chin-Riley’s trial looming large over both the current and flashback narratives. This is a story of refugees, oppression, racism, and isolationism that brings to mind memories of Let That Be Your Last Battlefield from the original series, only here it’s the presence or absence of a dew claw on the cat-like species that separates them.
In many ways, it’s a quiet, personal, low-stakes story focusing on the consequences of cultural oppression for one small Euxhanian family and one lone Illyrian woman. Their struggles parallel one another, with the fears and anxieties of the past having a surprising influence on the reality of the present. It takes a while to understand why the narrative is split the way it is, and to appreciate how it all comes together, but I loved how McCormack brought them together.
As is often the case in the series, Captain Pike is largely a secondary character here, although the story does establish how he and Una met, why they became friends, and how she helped him through a dark period in his career. We don’t see a great deal of the rest of the crew, but La’an Noonien-Singh and Nyota Uhura get their moments, and we get some fabulous exposure to the wonderfully eccentric Pelia.
If, like me, you’re itching for season 4, Asylum will definitely satisfy your Strange New Worlds cravings and help tide you over until the new year.
https://sallybend.wordpress.com/2024/...
For those wondering when the story takes place, it’s sometime during or after the most recent season, with Una Chin-Riley’s trial looming large over both the current and flashback narratives. This is a story of refugees, oppression, racism, and isolationism that brings to mind memories of Let That Be Your Last Battlefield from the original series, only here it’s the presence or absence of a dew claw on the cat-like species that separates them.
In many ways, it’s a quiet, personal, low-stakes story focusing on the consequences of cultural oppression for one small Euxhanian family and one lone Illyrian woman. Their struggles parallel one another, with the fears and anxieties of the past having a surprising influence on the reality of the present. It takes a while to understand why the narrative is split the way it is, and to appreciate how it all comes together, but I loved how McCormack brought them together.
As is often the case in the series, Captain Pike is largely a secondary character here, although the story does establish how he and Una met, why they became friends, and how she helped him through a dark period in his career. We don’t see a great deal of the rest of the crew, but La’an Noonien-Singh and Nyota Uhura get their moments, and we get some fabulous exposure to the wonderfully eccentric Pelia.
If, like me, you’re itching for season 4, Asylum will definitely satisfy your Strange New Worlds cravings and help tide you over until the new year.
https://sallybend.wordpress.com/2024/...
November 6, 2024
It was as a senior cadet in Starfleet Academy that Una Chin-Riley first met Ensign Christopher Pike. Her need to be perfect and his troubled mind after a mission goes wrong, resulting in a loss of life, causes the two to challenge each other's perception of what it means to be a Starfleet officer. Their friendship will become legendary.
It's a brave idea to perform such a deep dive on the friendship of two of the main characters in an ongoing television programme, but McCormack keeps the relationship real by extrapolating backward and it is a fun story, reminiscent in many ways of the portrait of a youthful Kirk in Diane Carey's 'Best Destiny'. The parallel storyline from the Academy and the asylum talks is also well handled, asking readers to at least consider why it is that some people have to flee their homes with nothing and the effects of being exiled from your homeland might have on your outlook on life.
It's a brave idea to perform such a deep dive on the friendship of two of the main characters in an ongoing television programme, but McCormack keeps the relationship real by extrapolating backward and it is a fun story, reminiscent in many ways of the portrait of a youthful Kirk in Diane Carey's 'Best Destiny'. The parallel storyline from the Academy and the asylum talks is also well handled, asking readers to at least consider why it is that some people have to flee their homes with nothing and the effects of being exiled from your homeland might have on your outlook on life.
November 6, 2024
A new Star Trek novel by Una McCormack? Sweet! And the main character of the novel is [checks notes] Una?! I'm in! Now the question is, where does Garak fit into this story?
I don't want to dive too deep with this review since the book just came out (today as I write this). And in full disclosure, I graciously received an advance copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing it. Unfortunately I didn't have the opportunity to interview the author myself; but Jonathan was able to snag an interview for Literary Treks - so go listen to that!
The book takes place in two time periods: during Una Chin-Riley's final year at Starfleet Academy as well as after the events of season two of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.
I liked both timelines a lot. It is always fun to see our main characters in their younger days. We recently covered the Lost Era books on Literary Treks where we got to spend some time with a young Will Riker during his Academy days. While Chin-Riley is still a fairly new character to us, she is similar to Christopher Pike in the way that it feels like we've known her for a long time. So it didn't seem too out of place to really dive into her past. And the inclusion and a tiny amount of backstory for Pelia was also delightful.
My one gripe during this era was Chin-Riley's insistence that her engineering class be more immersive. And then the use of certain technology that was a little anachronistic for my tastes as well as the reference to a certain scenario that of course was invented by an on-screen character after the suggestion by one or more other on-screen characters. It was all really well done and flowed nicely in the novel, if a bit tangential from the main storyline. But I wonder if the story would have been a little tighter without the inclusion of this part.
Regardless of that, the writing was fantastic and the characters were really well conceived. Some might say the main premise of the book, that of refugees seeking asylum, is a bit bonk-bonk on the head. But I say, so what? The book has a clear message and that's something Star Trek always excels at. In fact, I wouldn't say this message is any more bonk-bonk on the head than a certain half-black/half-white or half-white/half-black alien species we encountered in the original series. So to me, this book does what Star Trek does best - take a subject that is timely and put it in the context of Star Trek. Very well done here in my opinion.
And [spoiler alert, but probably not] although Garak doesn't play into this story, I would like to imagine a short story by McCormack where Garak reaches out to the Chionians for help with the Cardassian refugees. I'd like to see what the Chionians have learned and even what happened to the Euxhana and how they would deal with refugees when the shoe is on the other foot.
Overall, I would give this one 4 out of 5 stars. Definitely worth the read for the Star Trek: Strange New Worlds fans out there.
I don't want to dive too deep with this review since the book just came out (today as I write this). And in full disclosure, I graciously received an advance copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing it. Unfortunately I didn't have the opportunity to interview the author myself; but Jonathan was able to snag an interview for Literary Treks - so go listen to that!
The book takes place in two time periods: during Una Chin-Riley's final year at Starfleet Academy as well as after the events of season two of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.
I liked both timelines a lot. It is always fun to see our main characters in their younger days. We recently covered the Lost Era books on Literary Treks where we got to spend some time with a young Will Riker during his Academy days. While Chin-Riley is still a fairly new character to us, she is similar to Christopher Pike in the way that it feels like we've known her for a long time. So it didn't seem too out of place to really dive into her past. And the inclusion and a tiny amount of backstory for Pelia was also delightful.
My one gripe during this era was Chin-Riley's insistence that her engineering class be more immersive. And then the use of certain technology that was a little anachronistic for my tastes as well as the reference to a certain scenario that of course was invented by an on-screen character after the suggestion by one or more other on-screen characters. It was all really well done and flowed nicely in the novel, if a bit tangential from the main storyline. But I wonder if the story would have been a little tighter without the inclusion of this part.
Regardless of that, the writing was fantastic and the characters were really well conceived. Some might say the main premise of the book, that of refugees seeking asylum, is a bit bonk-bonk on the head. But I say, so what? The book has a clear message and that's something Star Trek always excels at. In fact, I wouldn't say this message is any more bonk-bonk on the head than a certain half-black/half-white or half-white/half-black alien species we encountered in the original series. So to me, this book does what Star Trek does best - take a subject that is timely and put it in the context of Star Trek. Very well done here in my opinion.
And [spoiler alert, but probably not] although Garak doesn't play into this story, I would like to imagine a short story by McCormack where Garak reaches out to the Chionians for help with the Cardassian refugees. I'd like to see what the Chionians have learned and even what happened to the Euxhana and how they would deal with refugees when the shoe is on the other foot.
Overall, I would give this one 4 out of 5 stars. Definitely worth the read for the Star Trek: Strange New Worlds fans out there.
November 8, 2024
Fantastic story of the first meeting of Pike and Number One. Very enjoyable story.
January 31, 2025
Asylum is an absolute treat for any Star Trek fan, and it has definitely reinforced McCormack’s place as one of my favorite Star Trek writers. When I picked up this book, I was excited to see how she would bring her signature style to the Strange New Worlds universe, and I can happily say that she didn’t disappoint.
One of the standout features of the book is how McCormack perfectly captures the voice and mannerisms of the Strange New Worlds crew. From Pike’s calm leadership to Uhura’s confident charm, McCormack nails each character’s essence. Her understanding of the characters is so spot-on that it was incredibly easy to picture them exactly as they appear on the show, and that was such a joy to experience. The dialogue flows naturally, and it feels like we’re getting more of the characters we already know and love.
The dual timeline structure of the novel was also expertly done. McCormack seamlessly blends events from both timelines, with each one offering valuable insight into the other. It was a clever narrative device that kept me engaged throughout, as it provided different perspectives on the same central idea. I especially enjoyed how the past and present timelines enriched each other, deepening the overall plot in a way that was very satisfying.
Another highlight of Asylum is the backstory we get for Captain Pike and Lieutenant Chin-Riley. The way McCormack fleshes out their early relationship added a new dimension to their characters and their dynamic. It was fantastic to see more of their personal history, as it not only enhanced their connection on-screen but also gave us a deeper understanding of their characters. McCormack has a real talent for expanding upon the Star Trek lore, and in this book, she provides some much-needed context that enriches the Strange New Worlds universe.
McCormack has once again demonstrated her remarkable ability to capture the essence of these beloved characters while weaving a compelling story with depth and emotion. If you’re a fan of Strange New Worlds, this book is a must-read. I can’t wait to see what McCormack does next in the Star Trek universe!
One of the standout features of the book is how McCormack perfectly captures the voice and mannerisms of the Strange New Worlds crew. From Pike’s calm leadership to Uhura’s confident charm, McCormack nails each character’s essence. Her understanding of the characters is so spot-on that it was incredibly easy to picture them exactly as they appear on the show, and that was such a joy to experience. The dialogue flows naturally, and it feels like we’re getting more of the characters we already know and love.
The dual timeline structure of the novel was also expertly done. McCormack seamlessly blends events from both timelines, with each one offering valuable insight into the other. It was a clever narrative device that kept me engaged throughout, as it provided different perspectives on the same central idea. I especially enjoyed how the past and present timelines enriched each other, deepening the overall plot in a way that was very satisfying.
Another highlight of Asylum is the backstory we get for Captain Pike and Lieutenant Chin-Riley. The way McCormack fleshes out their early relationship added a new dimension to their characters and their dynamic. It was fantastic to see more of their personal history, as it not only enhanced their connection on-screen but also gave us a deeper understanding of their characters. McCormack has a real talent for expanding upon the Star Trek lore, and in this book, she provides some much-needed context that enriches the Strange New Worlds universe.
McCormack has once again demonstrated her remarkable ability to capture the essence of these beloved characters while weaving a compelling story with depth and emotion. If you’re a fan of Strange New Worlds, this book is a must-read. I can’t wait to see what McCormack does next in the Star Trek universe!
April 18, 2025
[3.5/5] A slow start that builds to an involving story. This takes place across two time periods: on board Captain Pike's Enterprise (during season 2 of Strange New Words) and about 30 years earlier when Pike and Una meet at Starfleet Academy. Both of these stories wind together in satisfying ways.
The story here is kind of a political drama as a species secretly divided by cultural racism begins negotiations with the Federation, and the discovery of their bitter history. It's made all the more involving in how the character's own pasts are weaved in here. The main focus is on Una, especially her time as a cadet and the way she approached her time there while harbouring her own secret.
The author (also named Una) has a good grasp of the characters and makes them sound authentic. The alien species are far more alien that the TV shows would typically do - one of the common tropes that Trek books go for - and in this case reminded me very much of the feline Kilrathi from the Wing Commander universe. Their cultures are fleshed out just enough to suggest depth and are interesting to learn about.
Not many of the main crew outside of Pike and Una get a look in. La'an is often present but isn't the focus, Spock and Ortegas appear in only one scene (but it's a funny one). Chapel and M'Benga aren't even mentioned. One slightly annoying thing is that the author insists on always naming Una and La'an by their double barrelled surnames, which feels unnatural in their cases. I also noticed that there's a tendency for characters to repeat themselves in conversations a lot.
I was wrapped up in this, though. It's a surprisingly exciting tale despite having no action, and it firmly places character development at the forefront.
The story here is kind of a political drama as a species secretly divided by cultural racism begins negotiations with the Federation, and the discovery of their bitter history. It's made all the more involving in how the character's own pasts are weaved in here. The main focus is on Una, especially her time as a cadet and the way she approached her time there while harbouring her own secret.
The author (also named Una) has a good grasp of the characters and makes them sound authentic. The alien species are far more alien that the TV shows would typically do - one of the common tropes that Trek books go for - and in this case reminded me very much of the feline Kilrathi from the Wing Commander universe. Their cultures are fleshed out just enough to suggest depth and are interesting to learn about.
Not many of the main crew outside of Pike and Una get a look in. La'an is often present but isn't the focus, Spock and Ortegas appear in only one scene (but it's a funny one). Chapel and M'Benga aren't even mentioned. One slightly annoying thing is that the author insists on always naming Una and La'an by their double barrelled surnames, which feels unnatural in their cases. I also noticed that there's a tendency for characters to repeat themselves in conversations a lot.
I was wrapped up in this, though. It's a surprisingly exciting tale despite having no action, and it firmly places character development at the forefront.
December 19, 2024
this is such a tender, loving character study of una in particular and a tremendous contribution to star trek literature on the whole. deeply in the tradition of episodes like "ad astra per aspera" and "remember" and "far beyond the stars," it hits every single beat i was hoping for and then some. mccormack absolutely nails the dialogue and weaves characterization seamlessly with plot, and the dual timeline did not once lag or feel overwrought; on the contrary, it was perfectly balanced and pulled me steadily through to the end. the whole thing felt effortless, though i'm sure the writing of it was not.
i'm particularly enamored with the pike & una friendship content, but pelia gets a lot of time to shine as well and it's absolutely wonderful. uhura gets to be nerdy about grammar, ortegas gets some fun banter, and spock is of course the straight man setting up all the jokes. there is also a scene near the beginning where la'an (lovingly) roasts una on a spit over an open fire with her familiarity and wit and my god. i just love them so much.
there are so many easter eggs throughout the novel (THE ORIGIN OF THE KOBAYASHI MARU!!!) but it's balanced with an admirable level of original lore, not to mention an utterly brilliant treatment of una as a character. i really cannot compliment this book highly enough. it's one i'll return to over and over, not just for its laughs but also for its heart.
i'm particularly enamored with the pike & una friendship content, but pelia gets a lot of time to shine as well and it's absolutely wonderful. uhura gets to be nerdy about grammar, ortegas gets some fun banter, and spock is of course the straight man setting up all the jokes. there is also a scene near the beginning where la'an (lovingly) roasts una on a spit over an open fire with her familiarity and wit and my god. i just love them so much.
there are so many easter eggs throughout the novel (THE ORIGIN OF THE KOBAYASHI MARU!!!) but it's balanced with an admirable level of original lore, not to mention an utterly brilliant treatment of una as a character. i really cannot compliment this book highly enough. it's one i'll return to over and over, not just for its laughs but also for its heart.
November 18, 2024
This SNW novel completely wipes the taste of the last one from my mouth. As far as I'm concerned, this is what "Star Trek" is all about, and in the skilled hands of Una McCormack this is a timely read about refugees, bigotry, and the exploration of the limits of compassion that people seem to place upon themselves. Absolutely lovely...and yes, damn right: Ortegas flies the ship (you'll get it once you read it).
May 27, 2025
The Federation is going to have trade negotiations with Chionians scheduled to be on board the Enterprise, however it turns out the Chionians have internal divisions that will make things difficult not only for negotiations but for First Officer Una Chin-Riley. Asylum by Una McCormack is the second book featuring the characters from Star Trek: Strange New Worlds in the novelizations surrounding one of the latest Star Trek television series.
Taking place after the events the second season episode, “Ad Astra per Aspera”—and maybe “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow” as well—the book follows Lt. Commander “Number One” Una Chin-Riley in present-day and in her senior year at the academy, the Chionian ambassador Linchar, and two Euxhana in flashbacks. The story is basic for the franchise with the Federation having negotiations with what turns out to be the dominate ethnicity of a planet that is suppressing the minority’s cultural heritage and one of the main characters has interacted with said minority in their past, then said minority appears to be doing things to disrupt the talks. Overall, it was well written, adds depth to several of the main characters of the series—Number One, Christopher Pike, and Pelia—while also creating some good secondary characters. However there were some pet peeves I couldn’t get over, the first was Number One as a senior at the Academy making a commitment to help support a refugee family only to back out when it hurts her studies even though she has a full schedule and already doing extracurricular activities when there was no way a senior about to graduate and officially join Starfleet would have made this mistake at this point in their life. The second was inferring that Pike and tangentially Number One inspired Pelia to create the Kobayashi Maru test at the Academy, I mean why? Not everything in the lore needs to be explained as having been created by events in a prequel or by a character in said prequel, sometimes it can be created by a nobody and never revealed as to the reason. While those two things annoyed me, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book so if you’re a fan of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and want to get into the novelizations this is recommended.
Asylum is a good example of media tie-in novels, Una McCormack nails the present-day voices of the characters, and the overall story reads like a good episode.
Taking place after the events the second season episode, “Ad Astra per Aspera”—and maybe “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow” as well—the book follows Lt. Commander “Number One” Una Chin-Riley in present-day and in her senior year at the academy, the Chionian ambassador Linchar, and two Euxhana in flashbacks. The story is basic for the franchise with the Federation having negotiations with what turns out to be the dominate ethnicity of a planet that is suppressing the minority’s cultural heritage and one of the main characters has interacted with said minority in their past, then said minority appears to be doing things to disrupt the talks. Overall, it was well written, adds depth to several of the main characters of the series—Number One, Christopher Pike, and Pelia—while also creating some good secondary characters. However there were some pet peeves I couldn’t get over, the first was Number One as a senior at the Academy making a commitment to help support a refugee family only to back out when it hurts her studies even though she has a full schedule and already doing extracurricular activities when there was no way a senior about to graduate and officially join Starfleet would have made this mistake at this point in their life. The second was inferring that Pike and tangentially Number One inspired Pelia to create the Kobayashi Maru test at the Academy, I mean why? Not everything in the lore needs to be explained as having been created by events in a prequel or by a character in said prequel, sometimes it can be created by a nobody and never revealed as to the reason. While those two things annoyed me, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book so if you’re a fan of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and want to get into the novelizations this is recommended.
Asylum is a good example of media tie-in novels, Una McCormack nails the present-day voices of the characters, and the overall story reads like a good episode.
November 21, 2024
One of the better Star Trek novels I've read. Expanded on the relationship between Pike and Una while staying true to their characters and filled in some fun history about some Trek lore.
The one thing I didn't like was a prejudice of mine - I have never liked the humanoid cat species. They just seem like such a joke to me. The main aliens in this book are humanoid cats, and all the references to their paws and fur and claws - ugh.
The one thing I didn't like was a prejudice of mine - I have never liked the humanoid cat species. They just seem like such a joke to me. The main aliens in this book are humanoid cats, and all the references to their paws and fur and claws - ugh.
August 12, 2025
4.5 stars. I particularly loved the backstory between Captain Pike & Una! This history that will eventually lead Una to becoming Number One is a well thoughtout tale. The other plot line, the reflection of human treatment of minority groups via colonialism, regarding a dominant culture on an alien planet in talks to join the Federation was a great way to look at our own history as humans. Una McCormack knows how to tell a good tale and brings the characters from screen to page expertly. Definitely a must read for Strange New Worlds fans!
November 17, 2024
Thankfully, I managed not to get any of my very many happy tears on the book itself.
March 3, 2025
Good characterization. Una McCormack captures character voice well in dialogue, and that it feels true to the show. That holds up here.
On the other hand, the depiction of the Euxhana and their treatment by the Chionians was flat and heavy-handed, as though I was learning about them from an uninspired social studies teacher.
On the other hand, the depiction of the Euxhana and their treatment by the Chionians was flat and heavy-handed, as though I was learning about them from an uninspired social studies teacher.
November 30, 2024
As usual, Una McCormack delivers a well written novel. All of the characters sound and act like their counterparts on the screen.
Even so, I did not enjoy this novel.
I believe that she erred in the plot of the story. Throughout the book, the stakes are so low as to be non-existent. The book centers on Commander Una Chin-Riely, both in her current position aboard the Enterprise and as a cadet in her senior year at Starfleet Academy. Both periods could have been engaging had the story been different, but the plot revolves around a new species (basically anthropomorphized cats) and the oppression of one culture by another on their homeworld. This might have been exciting if there was an actual threat to the crew of the Enterprise, but it felt as if the author went out of her way to avoid any bloodshed or to place the crew in danger.
I understand that the focus was on the group of oppressed asylum seekers, but I never sensed that their lives were in danger and that incarceration was the worst possible scenario for them. In our world, asylum seekers routinely face death, torture, and other inhumane dangers. I never got that this was a possibility.
YMMV, of course, but I did not find the novel engaging and therefore cannot recommend it.
Even so, I did not enjoy this novel.
I believe that she erred in the plot of the story. Throughout the book, the stakes are so low as to be non-existent. The book centers on Commander Una Chin-Riely, both in her current position aboard the Enterprise and as a cadet in her senior year at Starfleet Academy. Both periods could have been engaging had the story been different, but the plot revolves around a new species (basically anthropomorphized cats) and the oppression of one culture by another on their homeworld. This might have been exciting if there was an actual threat to the crew of the Enterprise, but it felt as if the author went out of her way to avoid any bloodshed or to place the crew in danger.
I understand that the focus was on the group of oppressed asylum seekers, but I never sensed that their lives were in danger and that incarceration was the worst possible scenario for them. In our world, asylum seekers routinely face death, torture, and other inhumane dangers. I never got that this was a possibility.
YMMV, of course, but I did not find the novel engaging and therefore cannot recommend it.
January 11, 2025
I especially enjoyed how much backstory we got with two of my favorite characters - Captain Pike and his first officer Number One.
I had had no idea that they had met when Una Chin-Riley (Number One) was still at Starfleet Academy! (Pike had graduated shortly before and was back as a part-time instructor before going on with his shipboard career.)
I also was grateful that this was not simply the novelization of the asylum episode where Number One gets arrested & court-marshalled for lying to Starfleet all these years about being genetically enhanced [illegal in the Federation after the Eugenics Wars]. Instead, this book takes place AFTER the court martial has already happened. [Ahem. This book jumps backwards & forwards in time but the forward part is AFTER the court martial.]
It was more Una's backstory than Chris's but that's OK. It's actually Una's book, after all.
I enjoy reading about other cultures in my hard science fiction.
This book was about a cultural minority "passing" as a top aide to an important official in the majority culture.
On this one particular planet, two cultures existed even though the dominant culture didn't recognize the minority culture and was doing its level best to obliterate that culture. To "save" them by forcing as many people as it could to accept the majority culture's thinking and ways. Talk about disrespect writ large.
Some members of the minority culture became increasingly desperate to call attention to their people's plight (yes, you got it - they restored to terrorist strikes).
Highly recommended for all who enjoy Star Trek tie-in novels and especially for fans of the latest Trek show Strange New Worlds.
I had had no idea that they had met when Una Chin-Riley (Number One) was still at Starfleet Academy! (Pike had graduated shortly before and was back as a part-time instructor before going on with his shipboard career.)
I also was grateful that this was not simply the novelization of the asylum episode where Number One gets arrested & court-marshalled for lying to Starfleet all these years about being genetically enhanced [illegal in the Federation after the Eugenics Wars]. Instead, this book takes place AFTER the court martial has already happened. [Ahem. This book jumps backwards & forwards in time but the forward part is AFTER the court martial.]
It was more Una's backstory than Chris's but that's OK. It's actually Una's book, after all.
I enjoy reading about other cultures in my hard science fiction.
This book was about a cultural minority "passing" as a top aide to an important official in the majority culture.
On this one particular planet, two cultures existed even though the dominant culture didn't recognize the minority culture and was doing its level best to obliterate that culture. To "save" them by forcing as many people as it could to accept the majority culture's thinking and ways. Talk about disrespect writ large.
Some members of the minority culture became increasingly desperate to call attention to their people's plight (yes, you got it - they restored to terrorist strikes).
Highly recommended for all who enjoy Star Trek tie-in novels and especially for fans of the latest Trek show Strange New Worlds.
October 19, 2024
Probably 4.25 to 4.5.
November 24, 2024
*3.5?
January 3, 2025
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 4.0 0f 5
Una Chin-Riley is the poster girl for Starfleet: smart, driven, and dedicated. She's a by-the-book student, not afraid to ask questions and to quote the manual when she thinks something is being done incorrectly. And like all really good students, she's also active in extra-curricular activities. She's often the lead in the Academy-produced opera and she has sympathies for displaced peoples and works with groups to help people seeking asylum.
Christopher Pike is an ensign, having only recently graduated from the Academy, he's back at Starfleet waiting for a hearing for an incident during his short tenure on the ship. He's asked to give a lecture to students ... he's closer in age to them (compared to the usually retired people who lecture) and yet he's got actual starship experience.
Pike takes a liking to Una, despite her being so by-the-book and his realizing 'the book' doesn't have all the answers out in space.
25 years later, Christopher Pike is captain of his own starship and Una is his Number One and they are on assignment to settle a trade agreement when there is a terrorist attack. But the attack and the trade agreement are the least of Una's worries when she discovers that she knows the attacker from her days at the Academy helping those who sought asylum. The attacker was someone she helped and someone who knows too much about her own history.
This was the first book I've read by Una McCormack, and my first Star Trek: Strange New Worlds novel, and I found it quite well written. I'm a fan of the Star Trek: Strange New Worlds series and I thought the characters here acted and sounded the way we would expect them to, having watched the series. I'm not generally a fan of multiple timelines in a book and I would have been happy with just the Academy era storyline, but this worked well - the Academy story being a bit stronger and more interesting.
There is something from the Starfleet Academy days that is rather legendary in the Star Trek lore (I don't want to give too much away) that has its origins here. It's a fun bit for Star Trek fans.
This is precisely the sort of book I'm looking for when I read a Star Trek novel ... something that gives me more insight to the characters I already know and am familiar with, while giving me a solid story in the process. I'm definitely interested in reading more works by McCormack.
Looking for a good book? Star Trek: Strange New Worlds: Asylum by Una McCormack is a well written Star Trek story with characters that sound and act like those we're familiar with.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
Una Chin-Riley is the poster girl for Starfleet: smart, driven, and dedicated. She's a by-the-book student, not afraid to ask questions and to quote the manual when she thinks something is being done incorrectly. And like all really good students, she's also active in extra-curricular activities. She's often the lead in the Academy-produced opera and she has sympathies for displaced peoples and works with groups to help people seeking asylum.
Christopher Pike is an ensign, having only recently graduated from the Academy, he's back at Starfleet waiting for a hearing for an incident during his short tenure on the ship. He's asked to give a lecture to students ... he's closer in age to them (compared to the usually retired people who lecture) and yet he's got actual starship experience.
Pike takes a liking to Una, despite her being so by-the-book and his realizing 'the book' doesn't have all the answers out in space.
25 years later, Christopher Pike is captain of his own starship and Una is his Number One and they are on assignment to settle a trade agreement when there is a terrorist attack. But the attack and the trade agreement are the least of Una's worries when she discovers that she knows the attacker from her days at the Academy helping those who sought asylum. The attacker was someone she helped and someone who knows too much about her own history.
This was the first book I've read by Una McCormack, and my first Star Trek: Strange New Worlds novel, and I found it quite well written. I'm a fan of the Star Trek: Strange New Worlds series and I thought the characters here acted and sounded the way we would expect them to, having watched the series. I'm not generally a fan of multiple timelines in a book and I would have been happy with just the Academy era storyline, but this worked well - the Academy story being a bit stronger and more interesting.
There is something from the Starfleet Academy days that is rather legendary in the Star Trek lore (I don't want to give too much away) that has its origins here. It's a fun bit for Star Trek fans.
This is precisely the sort of book I'm looking for when I read a Star Trek novel ... something that gives me more insight to the characters I already know and am familiar with, while giving me a solid story in the process. I'm definitely interested in reading more works by McCormack.
Looking for a good book? Star Trek: Strange New Worlds: Asylum by Una McCormack is a well written Star Trek story with characters that sound and act like those we're familiar with.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2025
A little more understated and character-driven than you'll sometimes see with ST spin-offs, but I think that's why I enjoyed it so much. That it focused on Pike and Numero Una meant I was always going to find something to appreciate, but having these two characters - two of the more conscientious yet empathetic characters - front and centre just really worked for this storyline.
Split between the past when Pike and Una met for the first time and the current, it explored the precarious moral nature that the Federation can find itself in when engaging with new cultures and species. The Chionians were arguably well intentioned in their determination to "civilise" their Euxhana brothers, but their attempts amounted to ethnic cleansing and the Euxhanians sought asylum on earth. Understandably, this struck a chord with a young Una given the truth of her genetic heritage and she quickly became intensely involved with a family who were seeking to make earth their home. While I believed in Una totally and utterly as a student, it was the intensity of her bond with the family that just didn't quite get the scope needed to really portray her conflict between protecting her secret and following her moral compass. Too quickly into their knowing one another, McCormack was writing their bond as life-defining and it felt distinctly forced at times. Instead, unsurprisingly, the most compelling aspect of the past was Una and Pike getting to know one another. Una was the "by the book" cadet while Pike was the seasoned Ensign who'd come to realise that sometimes the book needed to be rewritten, all while recognising the enormous potential that Una had. In their growing bond there was a genuine sense that they completed each other. Not in the romantic sense (although I did feel a twinge of shipper-iness!), but in terms of their values and focus on their careers. It was just a lovely dive into their past and friendship.
In the present, the Chionians were looking to move towards joining the Federation and, naturally, the Enterprise was heavily involved in negotiations. As their plans looked to be threatened by Euxhanian protests, it forced the conflict of the Chionian perspective that the Euxhanian protests were terrorism while Una's history working with their refugees gave her a more considered perspective, one which Pike shared but perhaps did not have the authority to force on the Federation. They "worked the problem", in the typical Star Trek way and the ending had the classic feel of everybody taking away a little understanding that they hadn't had before, a hopeful note to end on. Some of the inclusions of other Enterprise characters did feel a tad tacked-on (how many times did La'an get inserted just to mutter about security concerns?!) when this was always the story of Una and Pike and told through a storyline that was so fitting to both of them.
Split between the past when Pike and Una met for the first time and the current, it explored the precarious moral nature that the Federation can find itself in when engaging with new cultures and species. The Chionians were arguably well intentioned in their determination to "civilise" their Euxhana brothers, but their attempts amounted to ethnic cleansing and the Euxhanians sought asylum on earth. Understandably, this struck a chord with a young Una given the truth of her genetic heritage and she quickly became intensely involved with a family who were seeking to make earth their home. While I believed in Una totally and utterly as a student, it was the intensity of her bond with the family that just didn't quite get the scope needed to really portray her conflict between protecting her secret and following her moral compass. Too quickly into their knowing one another, McCormack was writing their bond as life-defining and it felt distinctly forced at times. Instead, unsurprisingly, the most compelling aspect of the past was Una and Pike getting to know one another. Una was the "by the book" cadet while Pike was the seasoned Ensign who'd come to realise that sometimes the book needed to be rewritten, all while recognising the enormous potential that Una had. In their growing bond there was a genuine sense that they completed each other. Not in the romantic sense (although I did feel a twinge of shipper-iness!), but in terms of their values and focus on their careers. It was just a lovely dive into their past and friendship.
In the present, the Chionians were looking to move towards joining the Federation and, naturally, the Enterprise was heavily involved in negotiations. As their plans looked to be threatened by Euxhanian protests, it forced the conflict of the Chionian perspective that the Euxhanian protests were terrorism while Una's history working with their refugees gave her a more considered perspective, one which Pike shared but perhaps did not have the authority to force on the Federation. They "worked the problem", in the typical Star Trek way and the ending had the classic feel of everybody taking away a little understanding that they hadn't had before, a hopeful note to end on. Some of the inclusions of other Enterprise characters did feel a tad tacked-on (how many times did La'an get inserted just to mutter about security concerns?!) when this was always the story of Una and Pike and told through a storyline that was so fitting to both of them.
Read
June 6, 2025It’s been nearly two years since the season-two cliffhanger of Strange New Worlds, so thank goodness for Trek literature to keep us junkies out of withdrawal until July’s airing of season there. Asylum is a novel told across two periods of time, joined by Commander Una, Captain Pike, and a new planet of cat-people who are a bit racist.
The stage is set when Enterprise meets with the ambassador of the Racist Cats, and Una is taken back to her academy days when she met some Refugee Cats in San Francisco. New Cat Planet has a ‘civilized’ majority who live in cities, congregate at wine bars, and talk about their golf handicaps — but there’s also a minority population, nomads who prefer roaming in the mountain country. The Racist Cats regard this population as unevolved and in need of guidance, so the Mountain Cats are being forced to settle in cities and go to schools and such. Some of them have fled Cat Planet and become refugees, like the ones Una meets. The author is clearly drawing from experiences like that of Indian Schools in the American west, as well as the way the Han Chinese treat minorities like the Uighur in China. Una sympathizes with the Refugee Mountain Cats, given she she also has to hide her identity as a genetically modified human, but when she realizes the RMCs have a fugitive in their midst she backs away from the family, to her lingering shame. During the Enterprise & Racist Cat meet, political activism begins rocking the conference site to the annoyance and chagrin of Security Chief La’An, calling for justice for the Mountain Cats. The unrest begins with sprayed slogans, then a bomb threat that lands a member of the Racist Cat Staff — a member who is actually a Mountain Cat — in the brig as the only suspect.
The strongest part of the novel for me was Una’s growth as a character, seeing her stumble morally but haul herself back up again. I also liked witnessing the origin of her friendship with Captain Pike, who she meets when he is an ensign teaching a series of guest lectures. Her big-sis relationship with La’An, which we got to see a lot of in “Subspace Rhapsody“. is also on display. Speaking of, remember Una’s sung line that in another life she could see herself up on the stage, for three hours a night and to everyone’s delight, delivering renditions of Gilbert and Sullivan? One of the many things that keep Academy Una occupied is her role in a production of “The Mikado”! This is a fairly low-stakes novel, but being such a fan of SNW and its ensemble cast, I enjoyed it.
June 8, 2025
Star Trek novels have been around for a long time and may be the longest running media tie-in series of all time. They are usually written as if they are longer episodes of the series, and at their best, explore the kind of social and political themes when the show is at its best. They can also give background on characters who aren’t in the spotlight, explore alien races the series mentions in passing, or just expand the universe of the series. If you don’t like Star Trek, none of these books are there to win you over. They are not for people who don’t know the series and are usually filled with Easter Eggs that aren't picked up on in the series, so for fans, they are usually is a “side universe.”
Strange New World is a series that is set before the 1960’s Star Trek series under the 2nd captain of the enterprise Christopher Pike. There are a few characters from the 60’s series here (Mr. Spock and Lt. Uhura), but most are either from the aborted pilot in the 60’s or are new characters. This novel flashes between the past and the present of the series.
The Past portion is when Pike was still an ensign, awaiting in an inquiry into behavior on an away mission, and his future Number One (first officer) still in Starfleet Academy. It tells the story of their first meeting as well as Number One’s struggles when she starts to help a family of alien refugees.
The Present portion is when the Enterprise is involved in negotiations with the ruling party of the world where those refugees came from.
The drama comes from the fact that the ruling party is trying to destroy a differing culture on their planet they deem to be primitive. As the refugees seem to be sabotaging the negotiations, Pike and Number One have to find out who is behind the sabotage, if the negotiations can be salvaged, and is this alien civilization able to overcome their prejudices and work with the Federation.
I loved this novel. It is briskly written with a clear prose style and plot that pulls the reader along. The social commentary is up front, which could have been a problem if they plot wasn’t so tight. We get great interplay between the characters, more background on them that the series has given that fits with how they have been portrayed, and a satisfying conclusion that ties up any loose ends.
Star Trek novels are meant to be entertaining first, true to the spirit of the series second, and a mirror of our world if possible. This one hit all three marks and was a lot of fun to read.
Strange New World is a series that is set before the 1960’s Star Trek series under the 2nd captain of the enterprise Christopher Pike. There are a few characters from the 60’s series here (Mr. Spock and Lt. Uhura), but most are either from the aborted pilot in the 60’s or are new characters. This novel flashes between the past and the present of the series.
The Past portion is when Pike was still an ensign, awaiting in an inquiry into behavior on an away mission, and his future Number One (first officer) still in Starfleet Academy. It tells the story of their first meeting as well as Number One’s struggles when she starts to help a family of alien refugees.
The Present portion is when the Enterprise is involved in negotiations with the ruling party of the world where those refugees came from.
The drama comes from the fact that the ruling party is trying to destroy a differing culture on their planet they deem to be primitive. As the refugees seem to be sabotaging the negotiations, Pike and Number One have to find out who is behind the sabotage, if the negotiations can be salvaged, and is this alien civilization able to overcome their prejudices and work with the Federation.
I loved this novel. It is briskly written with a clear prose style and plot that pulls the reader along. The social commentary is up front, which could have been a problem if they plot wasn’t so tight. We get great interplay between the characters, more background on them that the series has given that fits with how they have been portrayed, and a satisfying conclusion that ties up any loose ends.
Star Trek novels are meant to be entertaining first, true to the spirit of the series second, and a mirror of our world if possible. This one hit all three marks and was a lot of fun to read.
April 25, 2025
Diplomacy is the best path to peace!
This book is a tie-in work and the second original prose novel of “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds”.
A VERY DIPLOMATIC MISSION
You’re always complaining that you don’t get to see enough real examples that some of the instructors are teaching the last generation of cadets, not the next generation. You can’t say that about Pike. He was here a couple of years ago. And he was onboard ship a couple of months ago. He’ll know the score.
The story is set during of the second season of the TV series, after the trial to Una Chin-Riley is resolved. But the story is developed in two sets of time, in 2233, when Una Chin-Riley i son her last year on Starfleet Academy and in 2260, on the second season of the TV series. Switching between those two dates, between chapters.
If you’re looking for a Star Trek novel about diplomacy and the looking for the best option to reach peace without falling into firing phasers, this can be easily one of the best option ever printed in the franchise.
I like it too, since I feel that this was a better option to start reading prose novels of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds instead the first novel, The High Country, since over there, you have very fragmented the crew on the Surface of a planet, but here, you have the crew working together onboard the Enterprise desperately reaching a way to optain the peace between two societies of a same planet without having to use violence.
In the first part you have Christopher Pike, still an ensign and on forced sabbatical due a situation that it will require a formal audience, so meanwhile he is giving some optative course at Starfleet Academy, where Una Chin-Riley is convinced by Lt. Commander Pelia to attend those courses. Also, she is giving assistance to a civil organization in charge of helping refugees from other planets.
On the present, the Enterprise is ordered to be the place to make a diplomatic meeting where is attending representatives of the same alien race that Una Chin-Riley met for the first time on her days at the last year of Starfleet Academy.
This is really enjoyable novel that you’ll enjoy if you’re looking for a story where two societies of a same worlds are more alike that they want to admit and Pike’s crew is giving their best to find a way that both factions can find a mutual peaceful future.
This book is a tie-in work and the second original prose novel of “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds”.
A VERY DIPLOMATIC MISSION
You’re always complaining that you don’t get to see enough real examples that some of the instructors are teaching the last generation of cadets, not the next generation. You can’t say that about Pike. He was here a couple of years ago. And he was onboard ship a couple of months ago. He’ll know the score.
The story is set during of the second season of the TV series, after the trial to Una Chin-Riley is resolved. But the story is developed in two sets of time, in 2233, when Una Chin-Riley i son her last year on Starfleet Academy and in 2260, on the second season of the TV series. Switching between those two dates, between chapters.
If you’re looking for a Star Trek novel about diplomacy and the looking for the best option to reach peace without falling into firing phasers, this can be easily one of the best option ever printed in the franchise.
I like it too, since I feel that this was a better option to start reading prose novels of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds instead the first novel, The High Country, since over there, you have very fragmented the crew on the Surface of a planet, but here, you have the crew working together onboard the Enterprise desperately reaching a way to optain the peace between two societies of a same planet without having to use violence.
In the first part you have Christopher Pike, still an ensign and on forced sabbatical due a situation that it will require a formal audience, so meanwhile he is giving some optative course at Starfleet Academy, where Una Chin-Riley is convinced by Lt. Commander Pelia to attend those courses. Also, she is giving assistance to a civil organization in charge of helping refugees from other planets.
On the present, the Enterprise is ordered to be the place to make a diplomatic meeting where is attending representatives of the same alien race that Una Chin-Riley met for the first time on her days at the last year of Starfleet Academy.
This is really enjoyable novel that you’ll enjoy if you’re looking for a story where two societies of a same worlds are more alike that they want to admit and Pike’s crew is giving their best to find a way that both factions can find a mutual peaceful future.
July 27, 2025
This story is told in two parallel time periods. One close to the present time after Una’s secret has come out, and long ago when she and Pike first met as an Ensign and Cadet, respectively. The story, while mostly focusing on these two characters, does a wonderful job of filling in a story about a culture divided, with a large group attempting to enforce their will on a smaller one.
As with many Star Trek stories, it uses the lens of science fiction to tell a tale about the kinds of struggles and oppression we see all the time, and with the attacks on the trans community it seems ever more relevant to me now. Many of the things said seem like they could apply to us as much as they do a smaller ethnic group as a vocal section of their society tries to control what others know and asserts that their way is the only, right way.
Una befriends some refugees from another planet who have come to the Federation for safety and the right to practice and live as they wish. We see the issue from both the sides of the oppressor and the oppressed, as well as the refugee family and the Federation. In the present, that same race comes to negotiate a peace treaty, bringing their preconceived notions with them and are disturbed when they see signs that the conflict is not staying contained behind the curtain.
It’s a complex issue, thoughtfully explored by the story, in both the present and the past. In the past, we see a young Una, driven to succeed but not willing to accept failure, and not experienced enough to know how to be a good Starfleet officer, and in Pike she finds a mentor and friend, who is on Earth to answer questions about a recent mission, and in the meanwhile helps out at the Academy.
I would say that it is both a timely story and one everyone should read, whether it applies to refugees, immigrants, or the trans community, and hopefully it will make you think and appreciate the challenges faced by people in different situations, and also to realize that things are not always as clear cut as they may seem.
An excellent story that makes great use of the universe, characters, and material. While it doesn’t give everyone in the cast something to do, the quality of the story more than makes up for it. I would call this recommended reading, for anyone. A wonderful story, and a great introduction to trek.
As with many Star Trek stories, it uses the lens of science fiction to tell a tale about the kinds of struggles and oppression we see all the time, and with the attacks on the trans community it seems ever more relevant to me now. Many of the things said seem like they could apply to us as much as they do a smaller ethnic group as a vocal section of their society tries to control what others know and asserts that their way is the only, right way.
Una befriends some refugees from another planet who have come to the Federation for safety and the right to practice and live as they wish. We see the issue from both the sides of the oppressor and the oppressed, as well as the refugee family and the Federation. In the present, that same race comes to negotiate a peace treaty, bringing their preconceived notions with them and are disturbed when they see signs that the conflict is not staying contained behind the curtain.
It’s a complex issue, thoughtfully explored by the story, in both the present and the past. In the past, we see a young Una, driven to succeed but not willing to accept failure, and not experienced enough to know how to be a good Starfleet officer, and in Pike she finds a mentor and friend, who is on Earth to answer questions about a recent mission, and in the meanwhile helps out at the Academy.
I would say that it is both a timely story and one everyone should read, whether it applies to refugees, immigrants, or the trans community, and hopefully it will make you think and appreciate the challenges faced by people in different situations, and also to realize that things are not always as clear cut as they may seem.
An excellent story that makes great use of the universe, characters, and material. While it doesn’t give everyone in the cast something to do, the quality of the story more than makes up for it. I would call this recommended reading, for anyone. A wonderful story, and a great introduction to trek.
March 19, 2025
Book Review: *Star Trek Strange New Worlds: Asylum* by Una McCormack**
**Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/4)**
Una McCormack's *Star Trek Strange New Worlds: Asylum* delivers an engaging tale of friendship, loyalty, and deep secrets amidst the vast backdrop of the Star Trek universe. The book shines through its rich character development and immersive world-building, transporting readers seamlessly to the iconic settings of Starfleet Academy and the USS Enterprise.
The evolving relationship between Una Chin-Riley and Christopher Pike forms the emotional core of the story. McCormack masterfully portrays Una as an exceptional, multidimensional character whose brilliance and determination make her the “poster girl” of her class, yet whose past harbors complex, mysterious layers. The camaraderie between Una and Pike begins in their younger years and continues to resonate through their missions 25 years later. Their nuanced dynamic provides both warmth and tension, driving the plot in unexpected ways.
The narrative also grapples with significant themes, such as asylum, cultural identity, and moral responsibility, spotlighting the Euxhana's struggle and the Federation's stance on the issue. McCormack skillfully weaves these elements into the storyline without detracting from the thrilling plot.
While the story is undeniably captivating, readers craving high-octane space exploration and action-packed sequences may find themselves wanting more of these quintessential Star Trek elements. The novel leans heavily toward character-driven drama and political intrigue, which, while compelling, could feel less adventurous for some.
Overall, *Strange New Worlds: Asylum* is a highly enjoyable read for Star Trek fans and newcomers alike. Its heartfelt character arcs and thought-provoking exploration of cultural and personal dilemmas elevate it above standard franchise fare. Though it could benefit from a touch more action, the book offers an emotionally rich and satisfying experience.
**Highlight:** The emotional depth of Una Chin-Riley’s character and her profound bond with Christopher Pike.
**Wish List:** A bit more space-faring excitement and interstellar exploration to balance the intense character focus.
Happy reading and live long and prosper 🚀
**Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/4)**
Una McCormack's *Star Trek Strange New Worlds: Asylum* delivers an engaging tale of friendship, loyalty, and deep secrets amidst the vast backdrop of the Star Trek universe. The book shines through its rich character development and immersive world-building, transporting readers seamlessly to the iconic settings of Starfleet Academy and the USS Enterprise.
The evolving relationship between Una Chin-Riley and Christopher Pike forms the emotional core of the story. McCormack masterfully portrays Una as an exceptional, multidimensional character whose brilliance and determination make her the “poster girl” of her class, yet whose past harbors complex, mysterious layers. The camaraderie between Una and Pike begins in their younger years and continues to resonate through their missions 25 years later. Their nuanced dynamic provides both warmth and tension, driving the plot in unexpected ways.
The narrative also grapples with significant themes, such as asylum, cultural identity, and moral responsibility, spotlighting the Euxhana's struggle and the Federation's stance on the issue. McCormack skillfully weaves these elements into the storyline without detracting from the thrilling plot.
While the story is undeniably captivating, readers craving high-octane space exploration and action-packed sequences may find themselves wanting more of these quintessential Star Trek elements. The novel leans heavily toward character-driven drama and political intrigue, which, while compelling, could feel less adventurous for some.
Overall, *Strange New Worlds: Asylum* is a highly enjoyable read for Star Trek fans and newcomers alike. Its heartfelt character arcs and thought-provoking exploration of cultural and personal dilemmas elevate it above standard franchise fare. Though it could benefit from a touch more action, the book offers an emotionally rich and satisfying experience.
**Highlight:** The emotional depth of Una Chin-Riley’s character and her profound bond with Christopher Pike.
**Wish List:** A bit more space-faring excitement and interstellar exploration to balance the intense character focus.
Happy reading and live long and prosper 🚀
December 27, 2024
SNW #2: Asylum by Una McCormack
That’s four for four new books that I’ve read that have been released in the past year that’s been underwhelming. I wasn’t the biggest fan of the High Country because the plot was too convoluted. I really enjoyed this book up until the ending as it felt very underwhelming. I wasn’t really interested in the Euxhana as I’m a little tired of plots involving cat like people in Star Trek. Uhura’s Song is the worst example of this for me.
I did however find the parallels with the Euxhana and Russianzation interesting. For those who don’t know, when Stalin came to power, he moved lots of ethnic Russians to regions where they didn’t really exist before. He forced local ethnic groups and minorities to learn Russia, discouraged these of their language and culture and so on. I’m also from
Anyway, I digress. Any book focusing on Number One aka Una should be really interesting. In official canon, we don’t find out she’s Illyrian until SNW and there was nothing really there explaining her background expect in novels. I really wish McCormack focused more in on that and it was only touched upon the book in minor ways. This was definitely better than the other four Trek novels I found disappointing recently as it was written better.
The book also bucked the trend of a minority group from a major species not experiencing major societal change as a result of contact or conflict with the Federation. I appreciate when authors go away from stereotypes and norms in Star Trek, but it was done in such an anticlimactic way and left me feeling frustrated. Nothing got better for the Euxhana in the end.
Anyway, I will still rate this book a 6.7/ 10 simply because of the writing and a simpler plot compared to the previous entry.
That’s four for four new books that I’ve read that have been released in the past year that’s been underwhelming. I wasn’t the biggest fan of the High Country because the plot was too convoluted. I really enjoyed this book up until the ending as it felt very underwhelming. I wasn’t really interested in the Euxhana as I’m a little tired of plots involving cat like people in Star Trek. Uhura’s Song is the worst example of this for me.
I did however find the parallels with the Euxhana and Russianzation interesting. For those who don’t know, when Stalin came to power, he moved lots of ethnic Russians to regions where they didn’t really exist before. He forced local ethnic groups and minorities to learn Russia, discouraged these of their language and culture and so on. I’m also from
Anyway, I digress. Any book focusing on Number One aka Una should be really interesting. In official canon, we don’t find out she’s Illyrian until SNW and there was nothing really there explaining her background expect in novels. I really wish McCormack focused more in on that and it was only touched upon the book in minor ways. This was definitely better than the other four Trek novels I found disappointing recently as it was written better.
The book also bucked the trend of a minority group from a major species not experiencing major societal change as a result of contact or conflict with the Federation. I appreciate when authors go away from stereotypes and norms in Star Trek, but it was done in such an anticlimactic way and left me feeling frustrated. Nothing got better for the Euxhana in the end.
Anyway, I will still rate this book a 6.7/ 10 simply because of the writing and a simpler plot compared to the previous entry.
January 7, 2025
"Space is unforgiving."
Told at a slow pace initially, this is the backstory of how Una Chin-Riley and Christopher Pike met before they become shipmates on the Enterprise. While asked to present a series of lectures at Starfleet Academy, Pike encounters a bright student with impeccable grades, Chin-Riley. Pike is intrigued by Chin-Riley and, after a period of awkward and unrequited flirting, the two become quick friends and a lifetime mentorship is born. Pike is fascinated with Chin-Riley's dedication to Starfleet regulations but also her candor and critical thinking skills. He immediately pegs her as his future Number One.
Una McCormack does a brilliant job in defining her Star Trek namesake and letting us see Chin-Riley's evolution as a star student to star shipmate. McCormack uses a dual timeline to tell the story switching chapters from the Academy backstory to 27 years in the future when the Enterprise crew, now led by Pike and Chin-Riley, are on a diplomatic mission destined for failure. Although confusing at first, the story opens up midway through the book. Centered around a dilemma that reads like a metaphor for Native American oppression in the United States, Chin-Riley uses her skill and curiosity to try and help a divided people and planet where a cultural minority is persecuted and seeks asylum on Earth.
Although heavy on the allegory of cultural acceptance by a majority people, McCormack offers several Easter eggs to Trekkies, including the introduction of Pelia as a Starfleet professor as well as revealing the inspiration and designer of the infamous Kobayashi Maru immersive problem! (Hint: it has something to do with both Pike and Chin-Riley lol). Overall, this is a classic Star Trek tale that delves into a complicated morality tale while providing an engaging backstory that is a lot of fun to read.
Told at a slow pace initially, this is the backstory of how Una Chin-Riley and Christopher Pike met before they become shipmates on the Enterprise. While asked to present a series of lectures at Starfleet Academy, Pike encounters a bright student with impeccable grades, Chin-Riley. Pike is intrigued by Chin-Riley and, after a period of awkward and unrequited flirting, the two become quick friends and a lifetime mentorship is born. Pike is fascinated with Chin-Riley's dedication to Starfleet regulations but also her candor and critical thinking skills. He immediately pegs her as his future Number One.
Una McCormack does a brilliant job in defining her Star Trek namesake and letting us see Chin-Riley's evolution as a star student to star shipmate. McCormack uses a dual timeline to tell the story switching chapters from the Academy backstory to 27 years in the future when the Enterprise crew, now led by Pike and Chin-Riley, are on a diplomatic mission destined for failure. Although confusing at first, the story opens up midway through the book. Centered around a dilemma that reads like a metaphor for Native American oppression in the United States, Chin-Riley uses her skill and curiosity to try and help a divided people and planet where a cultural minority is persecuted and seeks asylum on Earth.
Although heavy on the allegory of cultural acceptance by a majority people, McCormack offers several Easter eggs to Trekkies, including the introduction of Pelia as a Starfleet professor as well as revealing the inspiration and designer of the infamous Kobayashi Maru immersive problem! (Hint: it has something to do with both Pike and Chin-Riley lol). Overall, this is a classic Star Trek tale that delves into a complicated morality tale while providing an engaging backstory that is a lot of fun to read.
May 8, 2025
To be honest, I found this one a little boring. There are two linked stories told, one on Pike's Enterprise and one from when Chin-Riley was a cadet. The current mission is not a big focus, the story is more about Una's past and her experience with having to hide from persecution. A diplomatic peace talk is set with an ambassador from a planet that supresses a part of its population and as it turns out, Una has history with a family of the persecuted peoples.
We learn about regrets that she holds from decisions she had made as a cadet and discuss learning to live with failures in general. That leads to a new lore about the creation of the Kobayashi Maru exercise at Starfleet Academy and interestingly it's the third Star Trek novel I've read in roughly the last 6 months which proposes an origin of the no-win scenario exercise.
I have been rewatching DS9 lately and had recently thought to myself that apart from Lower Decks, DS9 and SNW are the two series' which have the best humour of the franchise. One thing that Una (the author) has done really well is capture that genuine humour of the series in this book.
I liked it, and resonated with its message, I just felt that it was lacking a captivating adventure.
We learn about regrets that she holds from decisions she had made as a cadet and discuss learning to live with failures in general. That leads to a new lore about the creation of the Kobayashi Maru exercise at Starfleet Academy and interestingly it's the third Star Trek novel I've read in roughly the last 6 months which proposes an origin of the no-win scenario exercise.
I have been rewatching DS9 lately and had recently thought to myself that apart from Lower Decks, DS9 and SNW are the two series' which have the best humour of the franchise. One thing that Una (the author) has done really well is capture that genuine humour of the series in this book.
I liked it, and resonated with its message, I just felt that it was lacking a captivating adventure.
December 24, 2024
Una McCormack's "Asylum" is the latest entry into the world of "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds". The book is a split storyline between events at Starfleet Academy in 2233 where Cadet Chin-Riley is attending lectures by Ensign Pike and also assisting a roommate of hers with an asylum case involving the Euxhana a cultural minority in the Chionian race. In the "present" (2260), we find the Enterprise crew trying to settle a trade agreement involving the Chionians which is disrupted by a terrorist attack which they are hiding. Both pieces of this story are very well written & are interwoven in a way that we the reader get to fully understand the plight of the Euxhana as well as how much things haven't changed with the Chionians across a quarter century. Each step of the way McCormack draws us further into these characters as well as Una's fear of being outed while in the academy to the early encounters of Pelia & Pike as well. The story is beyond relevant with the undertones and meanings of repression amongst other things and makes itself one of the most important novels written in recent memory.
October 18, 2025
This book tells a complete story.
Books like this based off long running TV franchises can be shallow only telling a story within the said universe but not adding much new. Of the last three books i have read in the ST universe, two were like that. This one is notably different.
For starters, it provides much new history about Una, and about her ongoing relationship (not romantic) with Pike. More than that it fills in a lot of context of Una’s character.
Looking at Una in her Academy days, we see a young woman facing difficult choices especially due to her secret eugenic background. Una herself is not happy with the choice she made then but later as the Enterprise First Officer gets to revisit that decision at least in part. It is a compelling story. The setting for this later scene is after her secret had been revealed to Star Fleet during which she was actually imprisoned as we learned in the TV series.
Mature themes: none in the usual sense I address in this section of my reviews. There is a great deal of text concerning the very serious theme of oppression of minorities by the ruling class in a society.
Books like this based off long running TV franchises can be shallow only telling a story within the said universe but not adding much new. Of the last three books i have read in the ST universe, two were like that. This one is notably different.
For starters, it provides much new history about Una, and about her ongoing relationship (not romantic) with Pike. More than that it fills in a lot of context of Una’s character.
Looking at Una in her Academy days, we see a young woman facing difficult choices especially due to her secret eugenic background. Una herself is not happy with the choice she made then but later as the Enterprise First Officer gets to revisit that decision at least in part. It is a compelling story. The setting for this later scene is after her secret had been revealed to Star Fleet during which she was actually imprisoned as we learned in the TV series.
Mature themes: none in the usual sense I address in this section of my reviews. There is a great deal of text concerning the very serious theme of oppression of minorities by the ruling class in a society.
January 4, 2025
As a rule, I’m not a fan of time-jumping narratives, but this book makes it work. The alternating sections are chunky enough that I never got temporal whiplash whenever the narrative jumped between “now” and “then.”
First off, this is a solid Star Trek story. You know, the classic kind of social commentary that has always existed in Star Trek but that certain people see as being “new” and “woke.”
I really enjoyed seeing Ensign Pike and Cadet Chin-Riley meeting and building the foundation of the friendship that would grow to become the Captain and Number One we know and love. And somehow they made Una’s love of Gilbert & Sullivan an actual plot point!
If I had one criticism, it would be this: the necessities of the plot means the focus is mostly on Pike, Una, and La’an, although Uhura does pop up later and there are a few small scenes with Spock and Ortegas. For me, the best part of Star Trek is the crew and I would have loved to see more of them (I mean, no Chapel?! Rude!). But this is the most minor of minor quibbles.
I’m ready for the next one. Hit it.
First off, this is a solid Star Trek story. You know, the classic kind of social commentary that has always existed in Star Trek but that certain people see as being “new” and “woke.”
I really enjoyed seeing Ensign Pike and Cadet Chin-Riley meeting and building the foundation of the friendship that would grow to become the Captain and Number One we know and love. And somehow they made Una’s love of Gilbert & Sullivan an actual plot point!
If I had one criticism, it would be this: the necessities of the plot means the focus is mostly on Pike, Una, and La’an, although Uhura does pop up later and there are a few small scenes with Spock and Ortegas. For me, the best part of Star Trek is the crew and I would have loved to see more of them (I mean, no Chapel?! Rude!). But this is the most minor of minor quibbles.
I’m ready for the next one. Hit it.
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