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Star Trek: New Frontier #19
The Returned, Part 1
The first installment in a brand-new three-part digital-first Star New Frontier e-novel from New York Times bestselling author Peter David!Captain Mackenzie Calhoun and the crew of the U.S.S. Excalibur are back, picking up three months after the stunning events depicted in New Blind Man’s Bluff. Calhoun's search of Xenex has failed to find any survivors, and now he is bound and determined to track down the race that killed them—the D'myurj and their associates, the Brethren—and exact vengeance upon them. His search will take the Excalibur crew into a pocket universe, where he discovers not only the homeworld of the D’myurj, but another race that shares Calhoun's determination to obliterate his opponents. But is this new race truly an ally…or an even greater threat?
181 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2015
114 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
About the author
Peter David
3,569 books1,357 followersaka David Peters
Peter Allen David, often abbreviated PAD, was an American writer of comic books, novels, television, films, and video games. His notable comic book work includes an award-winning 12-year run on The Incredible Hulk, as well as runs on Aquaman, Young Justice, SpyBoy, Supergirl, Fallen Angel, Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2099, Captain Marvel, and X-Factor.
His Star Trek work included comic books and novels such as the New Frontier book series. His other novels included film adaptations, media tie-ins, and original works, such as the Apropos of Nothing and Knight Life series. His television work includes series such as Babylon 5, Young Justice, Ben 10: Alien Force and Nickelodeon's Space Cases, which he co-created with Bill Mumy.
David often jokingly described his occupation as "Writer of Stuff", and he was noted for his prolific writing, characterized by its mingling of real-world issues with humor and references to popular culture, as well as elements of metafiction and self-reference.
David earned multiple awards for his work, including a 1992 Eisner Award, a 1993 Wizard Fan Award, a 1996 Haxtur Award, a 2007 Julie Award and a 2011 GLAAD Media Award.
Peter Allen David, often abbreviated PAD, was an American writer of comic books, novels, television, films, and video games. His notable comic book work includes an award-winning 12-year run on The Incredible Hulk, as well as runs on Aquaman, Young Justice, SpyBoy, Supergirl, Fallen Angel, Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2099, Captain Marvel, and X-Factor.
His Star Trek work included comic books and novels such as the New Frontier book series. His other novels included film adaptations, media tie-ins, and original works, such as the Apropos of Nothing and Knight Life series. His television work includes series such as Babylon 5, Young Justice, Ben 10: Alien Force and Nickelodeon's Space Cases, which he co-created with Bill Mumy.
David often jokingly described his occupation as "Writer of Stuff", and he was noted for his prolific writing, characterized by its mingling of real-world issues with humor and references to popular culture, as well as elements of metafiction and self-reference.
David earned multiple awards for his work, including a 1992 Eisner Award, a 1993 Wizard Fan Award, a 1996 Haxtur Award, a 2007 Julie Award and a 2011 GLAAD Media Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
November 3, 2017
While this Star Trek trilogy takes place after many of the Mackenzie Calhoun spinoffs in the Star Trek universe, the character’s creator penned this exclusive-to-Kindle novella trilogy and it shows. Because he created the extraterrestrial character with complex shadings who is the star of the New Frontier books in the Next Generation world there is nothing that feels off in the slightest; there are even some nice tie-ins to the original Star Trek series episode City On the Edge of Forever. Even if you only have a passing knowledge of the Star Trek universe, and have never gone near one of the books, which can vary greatly in quality, I think you can pick this up and very quickly get a handle on Captain Calhoun and the other characters, and their ties to each other.
As this one begins — obviously after a cataclysmic event — Calhoun has abandoned his duty as Captain of the Excalibur to seek out any surviving members of the Xenex race of which Calhoun is a member. He feels responsible for the entire race being wiped out by the D’myurj. His wife, Ambassador Shelby — Next Generation viewers will be familiar with Elizabeth Shelby — finds her husband, but cannot prevent him from reaching the Guardian of Forever as he intends to go back and change things. But Mark McHenry appears with a sly manner and powers so vast he isn’t even certain how far they extend, and talks Calhoun out of it. Returning to Star Fleet to try to get authorization for an excursion into Thallonian space, the half-Romulan Soleta is awakened from her coma and remembers things which will help Calhoun. Maybe…
Through some intrigue and a thinly veiled wink from Admiral Jellico, Calhoun soon has the loyal Excalibur crew in Thallonian space, searching for the wormhole to the pocket universe Soleta has recalled. Calhoun intends to exact vengeance on the D’myurj for wiping out his race — though it will not erase his guilt — and also rescue Admiral Nechayev — an imposter the reason Soleta was in the coma. But alas, the best laid plains of mice and men…
A lot happens in this first installment in The Returned and it’s great. There is humor, drama, a good feel for the characters, and enough action and intrigue to satisfy any reader. It starts off easy, and becomes more dense and complex as it goes forward. The deeply entangled history of Calhoun and his crew includes a future heir to the Thallonian world, a betrayal by Calhoun’s wayward and misguided son, a Vulcan mind-meld not strong enough to prevent grief from escaping for a member of Calhoun’s crew, and some exciting action both aboard the Excalibur and off. It is the relationships abroad the ship and off which drive the book as much as the fascinating story-line. Deep friendships, unrequited love, distrust and incredible loyal make this a fabulous read. We really feel like we’re back in the Star Trek universe with this one. And that ending!
If you’re one of those who tried a couple of the books years ago and found them a bit lackluster compared to the show, give this a try. As mentioned, you really don’t have to be familiar with all the new characters to catch up in this fabulous post-Next Generation universe. It’s really a perfect blending of the old and new, and well-written, as are most of the Peter David books. It’s a cliffhanger, but since you can already pick up the next couple — and they aren’t pricey, another selling point — you won’t have to wait around for ages to find out what happens. Great stuff!
As this one begins — obviously after a cataclysmic event — Calhoun has abandoned his duty as Captain of the Excalibur to seek out any surviving members of the Xenex race of which Calhoun is a member. He feels responsible for the entire race being wiped out by the D’myurj. His wife, Ambassador Shelby — Next Generation viewers will be familiar with Elizabeth Shelby — finds her husband, but cannot prevent him from reaching the Guardian of Forever as he intends to go back and change things. But Mark McHenry appears with a sly manner and powers so vast he isn’t even certain how far they extend, and talks Calhoun out of it. Returning to Star Fleet to try to get authorization for an excursion into Thallonian space, the half-Romulan Soleta is awakened from her coma and remembers things which will help Calhoun. Maybe…
Through some intrigue and a thinly veiled wink from Admiral Jellico, Calhoun soon has the loyal Excalibur crew in Thallonian space, searching for the wormhole to the pocket universe Soleta has recalled. Calhoun intends to exact vengeance on the D’myurj for wiping out his race — though it will not erase his guilt — and also rescue Admiral Nechayev — an imposter the reason Soleta was in the coma. But alas, the best laid plains of mice and men…
A lot happens in this first installment in The Returned and it’s great. There is humor, drama, a good feel for the characters, and enough action and intrigue to satisfy any reader. It starts off easy, and becomes more dense and complex as it goes forward. The deeply entangled history of Calhoun and his crew includes a future heir to the Thallonian world, a betrayal by Calhoun’s wayward and misguided son, a Vulcan mind-meld not strong enough to prevent grief from escaping for a member of Calhoun’s crew, and some exciting action both aboard the Excalibur and off. It is the relationships abroad the ship and off which drive the book as much as the fascinating story-line. Deep friendships, unrequited love, distrust and incredible loyal make this a fabulous read. We really feel like we’re back in the Star Trek universe with this one. And that ending!
If you’re one of those who tried a couple of the books years ago and found them a bit lackluster compared to the show, give this a try. As mentioned, you really don’t have to be familiar with all the new characters to catch up in this fabulous post-Next Generation universe. It’s really a perfect blending of the old and new, and well-written, as are most of the Peter David books. It’s a cliffhanger, but since you can already pick up the next couple — and they aren’t pricey, another selling point — you won’t have to wait around for ages to find out what happens. Great stuff!
August 28, 2015
There were several books I was anticipating reading this summer. But I'll have to admit that few of them packed quite the same level of "can't wait to read it" -itis that Peter David's return to the final frontier did.
It's been four years since our last visit to the universe of New Frontier and the crew of the starship Excalibur. And in my mind, that's about three years too long a wait -- especially given that David left us on a pretty interesting cliffhanger.
Luckily David's return to the series proves as much a triumph as I was hoping it would be. The first installment picks up three months after the last one ended and finds Calhoun living a hermit's existence on his destroyed homeworld and plotting his next move. David catches the reader up quickly on what's happening -- not only with Calhoun but everyone else in the New Frontier universe before setting various new plot threads into motion.
As always with David's Trek entries, the strengths are solid characters and a sense of humor. David takes his stories seriously but he takes the time to find the humor in the characters, universe and situations. The game of who's fooling who into "tricking" Calhoun to take on a dangerous mission to the pocket universe is superbly done and feels absolutely like pure David.
As I sat down to start reading part one, I told myself I should take my time, savor it and relish every last second of the book. And then I found myself on the final page with David leaving us hanging for the next part and thankful it was only going to be a month's wait for the next installment.
It's been four years since our last visit to the universe of New Frontier and the crew of the starship Excalibur. And in my mind, that's about three years too long a wait -- especially given that David left us on a pretty interesting cliffhanger.
Luckily David's return to the series proves as much a triumph as I was hoping it would be. The first installment picks up three months after the last one ended and finds Calhoun living a hermit's existence on his destroyed homeworld and plotting his next move. David catches the reader up quickly on what's happening -- not only with Calhoun but everyone else in the New Frontier universe before setting various new plot threads into motion.
As always with David's Trek entries, the strengths are solid characters and a sense of humor. David takes his stories seriously but he takes the time to find the humor in the characters, universe and situations. The game of who's fooling who into "tricking" Calhoun to take on a dangerous mission to the pocket universe is superbly done and feels absolutely like pure David.
As I sat down to start reading part one, I told myself I should take my time, savor it and relish every last second of the book. And then I found myself on the final page with David leaving us hanging for the next part and thankful it was only going to be a month's wait for the next installment.
July 21, 2015
Entertaining! At times Peter David's humor can be a little much for me, but he had it check here so thoroughly enjoyed this one. Looking forward to the second installment.
August 24, 2015
A great start to the next chapter of New Frontier! The story is, of course, difficult to rate without the rest of it to read, but I'm excited for the return of some of my favorite characters, and I very much look forward to the continuation and resolution. Here's to much more New Frontier to come, if the Great Bird of the Galaxy wills it!
Full review: http://treklit.blogspot.com/2015/07/N...
Full review: http://treklit.blogspot.com/2015/07/N...
July 9, 2017
Let's see...according my count, Star Trek: The New Frontier: The Returned, Part 1 is not only the first novel of a three part series-within-a-series, but the 19th novel and 29th chapter of the New Frontier series overall. I am sooo happy this series has returned--I was worried that Blind Man's Bluff was the final entry and the ending was such a downer. My joke to friends is this series should be called Star Trek: The Prime Time Soap because not only should one read everything branded with the New Frontier title including the comics and anthology stories to fully understand the entire continuity, but every so often, author Peter David leaves us with such staggering cliffhangers it recalls the days of season finales of such old TV shows like Dallas or Dynasty. In keeping with this train of thought I consider The Returned part 1 to be analogous to the season 4 premiere.
The first part of the book is spent partly cleaning up the mess left at the end of Blind Man's Bluff. Three months have passed since the genocide of the Xenexian race perpetrated by a race called the D'Myurj and Mackenzie Calhoun has been circling the ghost world of Xenex hoping to find any trace of other survivors. He finds none. Mac's wife, Admiral Elizabeth Shelby tries to get him to return to his ship, the USS Excalibur and fails. Mac then gets the insane idea of trying to hijack the Guardian of Forever (from the original TV series episode City on the Edge of Forever), in order to go back in time and prevent the genocide. Mac is ultimately stopped by the sudden appearance of former Excalibur helmsman now Traveling Demigod Mark McHenry who succeeds in getting his former captain to return to civilization.
Mac reunites with Elizabeth at her post, the Federation starbase Bravo Station, where another former Excalibur officer, Soleta, remains comatose after her own one-on-one confrontation with an agent of the D'Myurj. Mark restores Soleta to consciousness who in turn reveals she now knows where the D'Myurj are based. This leads to a large conference between Mac, Shelby, and former adversary/current ally Admiral Edward Jellico, where it is decided in byzantine fashion that Calhoun will not only somehow avoid consequences for going AWOL for months and attacking other Starfleet officers in the attempt to get to the Guardian, but is given back captaincy of the Excalibur and is to go on a clandestine mission to hunt down The D'Myurj. The mission is problematic for a number of reasons, one of the biggest of which is the requirement for them to travel through Thallonian space which is now restricted since New Thallon has cut all ties with the Federation.
On the soapier side of things we have a lot going on--Mac and Shelby remain surprisingly stable in spite of everything; Mac and adopted son Moke mend some fences and then Moke changes his name to "Thor"; Mac and biological son Xyon remain on the outs and Xyon begins plotting against daddy; Xyon also has a 'final goodbye' with his ex, Kallinda and the news of that was not music to Kallinda's current partner Excalibur helmsman Lt Tania Tobias (she doubts his sincerity); Commander Burgoyne 172 is still morning the loss of Dr Selar and is still largely unaware of the lingering effects of the final mindmeld between them, one of which is Burgy sleepwalking to Lt Robin Lefler's cabin and crying his eyes out; there is first tension then the hint of sparks between the newly minted Acting Lt Soleta and Chief Science Officer Xy--but wait!! Complications Arise!! It is revealed that Soleta has unrequited feelings toward Mac and that Mark McHenry in turn has unrequited feelings toward Soleta. I do believe this is our first love quadrangle, folks. It's only going to get deeper from here...
The first part of the book is spent partly cleaning up the mess left at the end of Blind Man's Bluff. Three months have passed since the genocide of the Xenexian race perpetrated by a race called the D'Myurj and Mackenzie Calhoun has been circling the ghost world of Xenex hoping to find any trace of other survivors. He finds none. Mac's wife, Admiral Elizabeth Shelby tries to get him to return to his ship, the USS Excalibur and fails. Mac then gets the insane idea of trying to hijack the Guardian of Forever (from the original TV series episode City on the Edge of Forever), in order to go back in time and prevent the genocide. Mac is ultimately stopped by the sudden appearance of former Excalibur helmsman now Traveling Demigod Mark McHenry who succeeds in getting his former captain to return to civilization.
Mac reunites with Elizabeth at her post, the Federation starbase Bravo Station, where another former Excalibur officer, Soleta, remains comatose after her own one-on-one confrontation with an agent of the D'Myurj. Mark restores Soleta to consciousness who in turn reveals she now knows where the D'Myurj are based. This leads to a large conference between Mac, Shelby, and former adversary/current ally Admiral Edward Jellico, where it is decided in byzantine fashion that Calhoun will not only somehow avoid consequences for going AWOL for months and attacking other Starfleet officers in the attempt to get to the Guardian, but is given back captaincy of the Excalibur and is to go on a clandestine mission to hunt down The D'Myurj. The mission is problematic for a number of reasons, one of the biggest of which is the requirement for them to travel through Thallonian space which is now restricted since New Thallon has cut all ties with the Federation.
On the soapier side of things we have a lot going on--Mac and Shelby remain surprisingly stable in spite of everything; Mac and adopted son Moke mend some fences and then Moke changes his name to "Thor"; Mac and biological son Xyon remain on the outs and Xyon begins plotting against daddy; Xyon also has a 'final goodbye' with his ex, Kallinda and the news of that was not music to Kallinda's current partner Excalibur helmsman Lt Tania Tobias (she doubts his sincerity); Commander Burgoyne 172 is still morning the loss of Dr Selar and is still largely unaware of the lingering effects of the final mindmeld between them, one of which is Burgy sleepwalking to Lt Robin Lefler's cabin and crying his eyes out; there is first tension then the hint of sparks between the newly minted Acting Lt Soleta and Chief Science Officer Xy--but wait!! Complications Arise!! It is revealed that Soleta has unrequited feelings toward Mac and that Mark McHenry in turn has unrequited feelings toward Soleta. I do believe this is our first love quadrangle, folks. It's only going to get deeper from here...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2017
I very much enjoy Star Trek, but I haven't managed to find a Star Trek novel yet that I liked. My husband gave me this series because someone told him it was one of the better ones. I stopped reading with less than 100 pages to go because I just couldn't continue to slog on. Every chapter seemed to be created to add another character to its collection of characters that were getting ready for a battle. Onward we go, gathering more people, getting closer to the battle, and getting more confused about who these characters are and how they relate to each other. I like Star Trek and I like character development, but not like this.
Perhaps the problem is knowing nothing about the New Frontier storyline. It turns out that this is Book #19 in a series, not Book #1. I didn't realize this going in. Perhaps I would have cared more about the characters if I already knew them. I think I'd rather read a Star Trek series novel with people I already know and like.
Perhaps the problem is knowing nothing about the New Frontier storyline. It turns out that this is Book #19 in a series, not Book #1. I didn't realize this going in. Perhaps I would have cared more about the characters if I already knew them. I think I'd rather read a Star Trek series novel with people I already know and like.
April 9, 2024
The finale of the NEW FRONTIER series is a really good one with a set up for the end of everything. It's also very dark and morbid with a major species (of the book series) destroyed and our protagonist traumatized by it. I feel like this is probably the place to end the series because things had started getting far too dark. However, it feels like 1/3rd of a book rather than an actual full story in its own right.
September 24, 2022
so amazing.
This is Peter David at his finest. Cliff hanger ending of course. Can’t wait for the next one. Decades long dream come true.
This is Peter David at his finest. Cliff hanger ending of course. Can’t wait for the next one. Decades long dream come true.
July 2, 2025
When I heard Peter David passed away I thought I would check out one of his books and this one was highly rated so I thought I would check it out. The book is interesting full of intrigue with a new crew and a new ship. However, the ending is such a cliffhanger that you must buy the next book and I don’t like that. Otherwise a great read.
July 27, 2016
It's the return of Mackenzie Calhoun, the fearless Captain of the USS Excalibur and husband to Starfleet Admiral, Elizabeth Shelby. But what Captain Calhoun returns to is emptiness. The kind of emptiness that can torture an ordinary man's soul. The kind of emptiness that can crush an ordinary man's spirit. But Mackenzie Calhoun is no ordinary man, he is the man thrust into the folds of rebellion after witnessing his father's execution. He is the man that liberates his home world from evil oppressors at the mere age of 20. And he is the man who will reap his revenge upon the ones that slaughtered his people.
But the road to vengeance must start somewhere, sometime. And what better place than here on the barren surface of Xenex? What better time than now? Surrounded by the memories of a planet once full of life, Mackenzie Calhoun can only now look over the desolate land in search for any indication that one, if he could be only so lucky to find one, a single survivor beyond himself. But the extinction of his people is undeniable, he is the last, the only, a fact that is only accepted after it is carried to his ears by the voice of his wife. But with acceptance comes action, and with Mackenzie Calhoun action is only a matter of time.
Time. It is the force that controls the past, the present, the future. It's linear heritage spans countless generations before and will span countless generations after the flash in the pan that is Mackenzie Calhoun. However, time's iron like grip on the events of the universe is not without weakness, without manipulation. And it is with that knowledge that Mackenzie Calhoun finds himself staring at the Guardian.
It is the mechanical construct left behind by some long forgotten alien race. It is the mechanical construct that is the key to unlocking the future return of his people. Oh how easy it would be to simply walk back in time and warn his people of the coming doom. To prepare them for the war that is about to be upon them. But why stop there when the options are limitless? But time is a beast not easily tamed. One right move could save his people, while one wrong move could cost them much more than just their lives. It is a tough choice to make. Will he risk the timeline to save his people, or will time retain the memories of the past?
But Mackenzie Calhoun will not be the only one faced with hard choices. Will the proud Starfleet Admiral put her career on the line for marriage and love? Will a once Romulan spy recover from her permanent slumber and awaken only to violate her loyalties to her new crew? Will the son of a mother be turned over to murders to be raised as their leader? And will the son of a father succeed in his quest to murder the one that created him?
These are just a few of the many questions that Peter David lays out in the first installment of The Returned. You will read as leaders return to the positions they rightfully hold. The return of crewmen once feared gone to illness, injury, or ascension. The return of unimaginable threats only to find there are bigger and badder predators beyond the shadows. But most of all, you will watch as one of the most prolific authors returns to what he does best, create.
A stellar story that reads true to past works.
*Product offered in exchange for an honest review.
But the road to vengeance must start somewhere, sometime. And what better place than here on the barren surface of Xenex? What better time than now? Surrounded by the memories of a planet once full of life, Mackenzie Calhoun can only now look over the desolate land in search for any indication that one, if he could be only so lucky to find one, a single survivor beyond himself. But the extinction of his people is undeniable, he is the last, the only, a fact that is only accepted after it is carried to his ears by the voice of his wife. But with acceptance comes action, and with Mackenzie Calhoun action is only a matter of time.
Time. It is the force that controls the past, the present, the future. It's linear heritage spans countless generations before and will span countless generations after the flash in the pan that is Mackenzie Calhoun. However, time's iron like grip on the events of the universe is not without weakness, without manipulation. And it is with that knowledge that Mackenzie Calhoun finds himself staring at the Guardian.
It is the mechanical construct left behind by some long forgotten alien race. It is the mechanical construct that is the key to unlocking the future return of his people. Oh how easy it would be to simply walk back in time and warn his people of the coming doom. To prepare them for the war that is about to be upon them. But why stop there when the options are limitless? But time is a beast not easily tamed. One right move could save his people, while one wrong move could cost them much more than just their lives. It is a tough choice to make. Will he risk the timeline to save his people, or will time retain the memories of the past?
But Mackenzie Calhoun will not be the only one faced with hard choices. Will the proud Starfleet Admiral put her career on the line for marriage and love? Will a once Romulan spy recover from her permanent slumber and awaken only to violate her loyalties to her new crew? Will the son of a mother be turned over to murders to be raised as their leader? And will the son of a father succeed in his quest to murder the one that created him?
These are just a few of the many questions that Peter David lays out in the first installment of The Returned. You will read as leaders return to the positions they rightfully hold. The return of crewmen once feared gone to illness, injury, or ascension. The return of unimaginable threats only to find there are bigger and badder predators beyond the shadows. But most of all, you will watch as one of the most prolific authors returns to what he does best, create.
A stellar story that reads true to past works.
*Product offered in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2015
“The Returned, Part I” eBook was published in 2015 (July) and was written by Peter David (http://www.peterdavid.net). Mr. David has written over 50 novels and many short stories. This novel is the 19th in his ‘Star Trek: New Frontier’ series.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘R’ as there are instances of Violence and Mature Situations. This Science Fiction novel is set in the future of the Star Trek universe.
This novel picks up about three months after “Blind Man’s Bluff” ends. The primary character is Captain Mackenzie Calhoun who is Captain of the USS Excalibur. Calhoun has searched his home world of Xenex, but has found no survivors. Only he and his son remain of his race. Now Calhoun wants to track down the D’myurj, the race who wiped out the Xenex. To do that he takes the Excalibur and his crew into a pocket universe where the D’myurj home world is thought to be located.
To get to the pocket universe, the Excalibur must pass through Thallonian space. Calhoun and his crew work out a plan to sneak past the Thallonians. However their plan is foiled through a homing device hidden on board the Excalibur. Against Calhoun’s wishes, a few crew members surrender to the Thallonians so that the Excalibur can proceed and complete it’s mission.
This was a little difficult to pick up this story as it relies heavily on what had happened in the earlier novels in the series. However, things were explained enough to read this as a stand alone novel. The story fell into the model of most Star Trek yarns. I enjoyed the 3 hours I spent with the story and I give this novel a 3.8 (rounded up to 4) out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘R’ as there are instances of Violence and Mature Situations. This Science Fiction novel is set in the future of the Star Trek universe.
This novel picks up about three months after “Blind Man’s Bluff” ends. The primary character is Captain Mackenzie Calhoun who is Captain of the USS Excalibur. Calhoun has searched his home world of Xenex, but has found no survivors. Only he and his son remain of his race. Now Calhoun wants to track down the D’myurj, the race who wiped out the Xenex. To do that he takes the Excalibur and his crew into a pocket universe where the D’myurj home world is thought to be located.
To get to the pocket universe, the Excalibur must pass through Thallonian space. Calhoun and his crew work out a plan to sneak past the Thallonians. However their plan is foiled through a homing device hidden on board the Excalibur. Against Calhoun’s wishes, a few crew members surrender to the Thallonians so that the Excalibur can proceed and complete it’s mission.
This was a little difficult to pick up this story as it relies heavily on what had happened in the earlier novels in the series. However, things were explained enough to read this as a stand alone novel. The story fell into the model of most Star Trek yarns. I enjoyed the 3 hours I spent with the story and I give this novel a 3.8 (rounded up to 4) out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
August 11, 2015
I received a republication copy of this book (July 6, 2015) through NetGalley with the understanding that I would publish are review on my blog, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Google + pages along with NetGalley, Amazon and Goodreads.
I requested this book because I am interested in science fiction and I read several of the early Star Trek novels and thought that I would try this one to see if I should get back into reading them again. I have read several of the early Star Trek novels by Peter David and enjoyed them.
While I did enjoy the book, I recommend that it will be easier to follow if you have read the previous books in the New Frontier series. It will provide more background on the characters and the relationships between them along with covering events that occurred prior to this book that have an impact on what is happening in this one.
I requested this book because I am interested in science fiction and I read several of the early Star Trek novels and thought that I would try this one to see if I should get back into reading them again. I have read several of the early Star Trek novels by Peter David and enjoyed them.
While I did enjoy the book, I recommend that it will be easier to follow if you have read the previous books in the New Frontier series. It will provide more background on the characters and the relationships between them along with covering events that occurred prior to this book that have an impact on what is happening in this one.
July 7, 2015
Peter David's back, which means one thing: Calhoun's back! What a great opener to this 3-part eBook series.
April 8, 2018
I got an advanced copy of this from Netgalley...
It is exactly what I expect from a Peter David, Star Trek book :c)
It is exactly what I expect from a Peter David, Star Trek book :c)
July 6, 2015
I am so glad New Frontier is back! A great start- can't wait til number 2!
October 20, 2025
Star Trek: New Frontier: The Returned Part 1- A Slow Beginning To The Final New Frontier Story
I just completed part 1 of Peter David's final Star Trek: New Frontier story, The Returned, and I must say that I find myself a bit disappointed with it so far. The book was split up into 3 parts by Simon & Schuster for some reason. They probably figured that it wouldn't sell enough to justify publishing it as a trade paperback so they broke it up into 3 novellas instead. Part 1 of The Returned has two different plotlines in it.
One follows Captain Calhoun and the other follows Robin Lefler and her baby. I was pretty underwhelmed by both stories so far. The Robin Lefler story especially is very repetitive. Like wash, rinse, and repeat repetitive.
And that's sad because this is the last New Frontier story so Peter David should be going out with a bang not a whimper. I think Peter David himself might've been burnt out on the New Frontier series by the time that he reached The Returned because he had been writing the New Frontier series for almost 20 years by the time The Returned was released in 2015. The longest thing Peter David ever wrote was The Incredible Hulk. His run spanned 11 years and even by the end of that run Peter David stated numerous times that he was burnt out on the Hulk.
And I think he was burnt out with the New Frontier book series by the time of The Returned because it just doesn't have that Peter David magic to it where the story is so good that you don't want to put it down. I put The Returned down a lot. It's taken me a long time to finish part 1 and I'm not anxious to start part 2 right away which is sad because I grew up reading Peter David's Star Trek stories back in the '90s and this story does not live up to those previous stories, not at all. Heck, this story isn't even half as good as some of the other New Frontier stories that were published before it.
I can't recommend this story to other Trekkies or even to other Peter David fans because of how bad and slow this story is. This story should be building excitement especially since this is Part 1 of a trilogy but it doesn't. It's just mind numbingly boring, man! So, unless you have a burning desire or a curiosity just to see how Peter David's final New Frontier story turns out and you don't mind being bored by repetition, then, hey, maybe this story is for you?
Me? I'm gonna go read a completely different Star Trek story before picking up The Returned Part 2 if I even read at all. I might save the last two parts of The Returned and only read them in case of an emergency such as not having something better than The Returned to read 🙂. Sláinte 😄☕🍀👋🖖!
I just completed part 1 of Peter David's final Star Trek: New Frontier story, The Returned, and I must say that I find myself a bit disappointed with it so far. The book was split up into 3 parts by Simon & Schuster for some reason. They probably figured that it wouldn't sell enough to justify publishing it as a trade paperback so they broke it up into 3 novellas instead. Part 1 of The Returned has two different plotlines in it.
One follows Captain Calhoun and the other follows Robin Lefler and her baby. I was pretty underwhelmed by both stories so far. The Robin Lefler story especially is very repetitive. Like wash, rinse, and repeat repetitive.
And that's sad because this is the last New Frontier story so Peter David should be going out with a bang not a whimper. I think Peter David himself might've been burnt out on the New Frontier series by the time that he reached The Returned because he had been writing the New Frontier series for almost 20 years by the time The Returned was released in 2015. The longest thing Peter David ever wrote was The Incredible Hulk. His run spanned 11 years and even by the end of that run Peter David stated numerous times that he was burnt out on the Hulk.
And I think he was burnt out with the New Frontier book series by the time of The Returned because it just doesn't have that Peter David magic to it where the story is so good that you don't want to put it down. I put The Returned down a lot. It's taken me a long time to finish part 1 and I'm not anxious to start part 2 right away which is sad because I grew up reading Peter David's Star Trek stories back in the '90s and this story does not live up to those previous stories, not at all. Heck, this story isn't even half as good as some of the other New Frontier stories that were published before it.
I can't recommend this story to other Trekkies or even to other Peter David fans because of how bad and slow this story is. This story should be building excitement especially since this is Part 1 of a trilogy but it doesn't. It's just mind numbingly boring, man! So, unless you have a burning desire or a curiosity just to see how Peter David's final New Frontier story turns out and you don't mind being bored by repetition, then, hey, maybe this story is for you?
Me? I'm gonna go read a completely different Star Trek story before picking up The Returned Part 2 if I even read at all. I might save the last two parts of The Returned and only read them in case of an emergency such as not having something better than The Returned to read 🙂. Sláinte 😄☕🍀👋🖖!
August 4, 2019
This was a bit of an effort. Peter David is one of the better Trek authors and I was expecting more from him to be honest.
This is a return to this series after some time and you probably need to be up to speed with the series before reading this. Captain Mackenzie Calhoun has been searching for survivors of his race but returns to the USS Excalibur to take on a personal and unauthorised mission of revenge.
Calhoun has a crew that will follow him anywhere without challenging him and they appear to worship the ground he works on. These are supposed to be Starfleet officers! Mr David also tries to show how gender neutral some in the future might be, but use of titles such as S/he just became irritating rather than an example of IDIC.
And the story? Not overly exciting or interesting, it warmed up a bit towards the end but I will not be bothering with part 2.
This is a return to this series after some time and you probably need to be up to speed with the series before reading this. Captain Mackenzie Calhoun has been searching for survivors of his race but returns to the USS Excalibur to take on a personal and unauthorised mission of revenge.
Calhoun has a crew that will follow him anywhere without challenging him and they appear to worship the ground he works on. These are supposed to be Starfleet officers! Mr David also tries to show how gender neutral some in the future might be, but use of titles such as S/he just became irritating rather than an example of IDIC.
And the story? Not overly exciting or interesting, it warmed up a bit towards the end but I will not be bothering with part 2.
November 2, 2020
This is an interesting beginning to the final Star Trek: New Frontier story (serialized in three parts). Calhoun went AWOL, and it takes an old character to bring him back to Starfleet. I hadn't realized how much I missed so that was fun. There was also a really sweet moment with Calhoun and Moke, which had been sorely lacking (or missing) the last few books. It's clearly a setup book, and the author arranged things for certain players to be on the same ship (or close enough) for once. However, I continue to be frustrated by the unfortunate sidelining of Admiral Shelby. I don't know if it's just because Star Trek novels are so focused on ship captains and crews or what vs. the higher echelons, but the Calhoun/Shelby dynamic is something I really miss (though we did get some of it here).
August 21, 2023
This is a trilogy placed at the end of the New Frontier series. Since each one is about 180 pages, I wonder why go to 3 separate books when one would have sufficed. But I digress even before I start my review.
This volume has a lot of things going on at once, Soleta getting back onto the crew of the Excalibur with Calhoun's help, for one thing. McHenry literally popping up out of nowhere. There are a number of other twists and turns that far longer reviews go into in minute detail, so why bother rehashing all that. Suffice to say that this will definitely keep your interest and sets up nicely the second part of the trilogy. Definitely recommended.
This volume has a lot of things going on at once, Soleta getting back onto the crew of the Excalibur with Calhoun's help, for one thing. McHenry literally popping up out of nowhere. There are a number of other twists and turns that far longer reviews go into in minute detail, so why bother rehashing all that. Suffice to say that this will definitely keep your interest and sets up nicely the second part of the trilogy. Definitely recommended.
October 1, 2017
Fine returned for Peter David's own created Trek with good pacing, plot curve balls, duplicitous characters. Perhaps not as much humour as we're used to. Moreso, The Returned suffers from the pacing of previous books and the many-year gap. Characters have changed status so rapidly that one needs to have read this trilogy and the last six books consecutively to keep up. An extended recap would have been very helpful here, as a lot of this goes down much too fast.
October 4, 2023
Boring
Unfortunately, the story line never grabbed my attention beyond the mundane. The writer used Star Trek terms but it could have been a First Foundation ship from Isaac Asimov's universe for all the difference it made. None of the characters evinced much in the way of interest, their development was minimal...basically I felt it was a bland novel. Pass on this author and sequels.
Unfortunately, the story line never grabbed my attention beyond the mundane. The writer used Star Trek terms but it could have been a First Foundation ship from Isaac Asimov's universe for all the difference it made. None of the characters evinced much in the way of interest, their development was minimal...basically I felt it was a bland novel. Pass on this author and sequels.
May 31, 2021
En efterlängtad återkomst av Excalibur!
Har verkligen saknat denna bokserie och denna bok för mig snabbt in i den thallonska delen av vårt universum, med alla politiska intriger både hos Thallon och Federationen. Som vanligt ett bra flöde i texten och goda återgivningar av de olika karaktärerna.
Har verkligen saknat denna bokserie och denna bok för mig snabbt in i den thallonska delen av vårt universum, med alla politiska intriger både hos Thallon och Federationen. Som vanligt ett bra flöde i texten och goda återgivningar av de olika karaktärerna.
August 7, 2021
Excellent Return to Calhoun and Co
After reading Blind Mans Bluff, I was hoping we wouldn’t be left hanging… and we weren’t. This is classic Peter David with the series he was born to write. Can’t wait to get into Part 2!
After reading Blind Mans Bluff, I was hoping we wouldn’t be left hanging… and we weren’t. This is classic Peter David with the series he was born to write. Can’t wait to get into Part 2!
October 26, 2018
Welcome Back
Missed our friends from the new frontier for quite some time. Glad they are back with the promise of more to come! Enjoy this one.
Missed our friends from the new frontier for quite some time. Glad they are back with the promise of more to come! Enjoy this one.
June 11, 2019
Good start
Can't wait for the next book. Sets up a rescue adventure with lots of twists and turns. I like Davids writing, it's descriptive, but still moves quickly and fun.
Can't wait for the next book. Sets up a rescue adventure with lots of twists and turns. I like Davids writing, it's descriptive, but still moves quickly and fun.
September 14, 2025
Holy moly. This was a quick read, enjoyable both in laughing term as well as star Trek trivia. Peter David is by far the most consistent author. I aplaud you sir.
June 23, 2015
How does one measure the success of a leader if he has no one to lead?
It's the return of Mackenzie Calhoun, the fearless Captain of the USS Excalibur and husband to Starfleet Admiral, Elizabeth Shelby. But what Captain Calhoun returns to is emptiness. The kind of emptiness that can torture an ordinary man's soul. The kind of emptiness that can crush an ordinary man's spirit. But Mackenzie Calhoun is no ordinary man, he is the man thrust into the folds of rebellion after witnessing his father's execution. He is the man that liberates his home world from evil oppressors at the mere age of 20. And he is the man who will reap his revenge upon the ones that slaughtered his people.
But the road to vengeance must start somewhere, sometime. And what better place than here on the barren surface of Xenex? What better time than now? Surrounded by the memories of a planet once full of life, Mackenzie Calhoun can only now look over the desolate land in search for any indication that one, if he could be only so lucky to find one, a single survivor beyond himself. But the extinction of his people is undeniable, he is the last, the only, a fact that is only accepted after it is carried to his ears by the voice of his wife. But with acceptance comes action, and with Mackenzie Calhoun action is only a matter of time.
Time. It is the force that controls the past, the present, the future. It's linear heritage spans countless generations before and will span countless generations after the flash in the pan that is Mackenzie Calhoun. However, time's iron like grip on the events of the universe is not without weakness, without manipulation. And it is with that knowledge that Mackenzie Calhoun finds himself staring at the Guardian.
It is the mechanical construct left behind by some long forgotten alien race. It is the mechanical construct that is the key to unlocking the future return of his people. Oh how easy it would be to simply walk back in time and warn his people of the coming doom. To prepare them for the war that is about to be upon them. But why stop there when the options are limitless? But time is a beast not easily tamed. One right move could save his people, while one wrong move could cost them much more than just their lives. It is a tough choice to make. Will he risk the timeline to save his people, or will time retain the memories of the past?
But Mackenzie Calhoun will not be the only one faced with hard choices. Will the proud Starfleet Admiral put her career on the line for marriage and love? Will a once Romulan spy recover from her permanent slumber and awaken only to violate her loyalties to her new crew? Will the son of a mother be turned over to murders to be raised as their leader? And will the son of a father succeed in his quest to murder the one that created him?
These are just a few of the many questions that Peter David lays out in the first installment of The Returned. You will read as leaders return to the positions they rightfully hold. The return of crewmen once feared gone to illness, injury, or ascension. The return of unimaginable threats only to find there are bigger and badder predators beyond the shadows. But most of all, you will watch as one of the most prolific authors returns to what he does best, create.
A stellar story that reads true to past works.
*Product offered in exchange for an honest review.
It's the return of Mackenzie Calhoun, the fearless Captain of the USS Excalibur and husband to Starfleet Admiral, Elizabeth Shelby. But what Captain Calhoun returns to is emptiness. The kind of emptiness that can torture an ordinary man's soul. The kind of emptiness that can crush an ordinary man's spirit. But Mackenzie Calhoun is no ordinary man, he is the man thrust into the folds of rebellion after witnessing his father's execution. He is the man that liberates his home world from evil oppressors at the mere age of 20. And he is the man who will reap his revenge upon the ones that slaughtered his people.
But the road to vengeance must start somewhere, sometime. And what better place than here on the barren surface of Xenex? What better time than now? Surrounded by the memories of a planet once full of life, Mackenzie Calhoun can only now look over the desolate land in search for any indication that one, if he could be only so lucky to find one, a single survivor beyond himself. But the extinction of his people is undeniable, he is the last, the only, a fact that is only accepted after it is carried to his ears by the voice of his wife. But with acceptance comes action, and with Mackenzie Calhoun action is only a matter of time.
Time. It is the force that controls the past, the present, the future. It's linear heritage spans countless generations before and will span countless generations after the flash in the pan that is Mackenzie Calhoun. However, time's iron like grip on the events of the universe is not without weakness, without manipulation. And it is with that knowledge that Mackenzie Calhoun finds himself staring at the Guardian.
It is the mechanical construct left behind by some long forgotten alien race. It is the mechanical construct that is the key to unlocking the future return of his people. Oh how easy it would be to simply walk back in time and warn his people of the coming doom. To prepare them for the war that is about to be upon them. But why stop there when the options are limitless? But time is a beast not easily tamed. One right move could save his people, while one wrong move could cost them much more than just their lives. It is a tough choice to make. Will he risk the timeline to save his people, or will time retain the memories of the past?
But Mackenzie Calhoun will not be the only one faced with hard choices. Will the proud Starfleet Admiral put her career on the line for marriage and love? Will a once Romulan spy recover from her permanent slumber and awaken only to violate her loyalties to her new crew? Will the son of a mother be turned over to murders to be raised as their leader? And will the son of a father succeed in his quest to murder the one that created him?
These are just a few of the many questions that Peter David lays out in the first installment of The Returned. You will read as leaders return to the positions they rightfully hold. The return of crewmen once feared gone to illness, injury, or ascension. The return of unimaginable threats only to find there are bigger and badder predators beyond the shadows. But most of all, you will watch as one of the most prolific authors returns to what he does best, create.
A stellar story that reads true to past works.
*Product offered in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2015
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 3.5 of 5
I definitely have a soft spot for Star Trek books, being the ST nerd/geek that I am, and for quite a while I read most of the books that came out. Then the market got glutted with books and I weaned myself off of them, stopping altogether until I began this blog. One of the last books that I read in the ST universe was one of the first books in Peter David's New Frontiers series. And I loved it. I loved the characters he created. Such an integral part of building a Star Trek world ... the characters would have to carry on with some of the same general themes as those that Gene Roddenberry created, but David worked his magic quite well. And so...to see a review copy of this book pop up among the books available, I jumped at the opportunity. And I'm delighted to report that the magic is still there.
Captain Mackenzie Calhoun and his crew of the U.S.S. Excalibur are on the hunt for a race called the D'myurj who annihilated Xenex. Their search leads them to a 'pocket' universe -- another universe that can only be accessed by way of a wormhole. But access to the wormhole can only be gained by enter Thallonian space and the Federation is not on good terms with the Thallonians. There are also rogues in Thallonian territory who are looking to kidnap and/or kill Robin Lefler's child.
Peter David really understands how to milk to the drama out of a moment (and I mean that in the nicest way!). He also understands the Star Trek universe and maneuvers his characters and plot well within this frame.
I was definitely hooked on the story (I sense that there is a tie to the previous books, but since I didn't read the series (now out of print) I can't be certain) and David shifted between story-lines smoothly and kept me wanting to read more to keep up with the different stories. I am extremely interesting in seeing where this goes. I'm particularly captivated by the McHenry/Lefler story-line.
This is a novelette/novella and the first part of a three-part series. Unfortunately it doesn't really stand alone as a complete work (beginning/middle/end), but the first part of a serial, and if you've read many of my reviews, you will know that I don't like it when publishers release a book that isn't a book simply to get us to buy the next one. I know...this is nothing new. Writers have been doing this for centuries. But I do think that if it's released as a book, it should be a complete book.
Even so, I enjoyed this for what it is...Star Trek escapist fiction. But because it's with a different crew and different ship, there's a slightly different edge of energy that comes with it, and I appreciate that.
Looking for a good book? It's not a stand-alone book, but The Returned, Part 1 by Peter David is good sci-fi fun and fans of Star Trek should really enjoy this book.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I definitely have a soft spot for Star Trek books, being the ST nerd/geek that I am, and for quite a while I read most of the books that came out. Then the market got glutted with books and I weaned myself off of them, stopping altogether until I began this blog. One of the last books that I read in the ST universe was one of the first books in Peter David's New Frontiers series. And I loved it. I loved the characters he created. Such an integral part of building a Star Trek world ... the characters would have to carry on with some of the same general themes as those that Gene Roddenberry created, but David worked his magic quite well. And so...to see a review copy of this book pop up among the books available, I jumped at the opportunity. And I'm delighted to report that the magic is still there.
Captain Mackenzie Calhoun and his crew of the U.S.S. Excalibur are on the hunt for a race called the D'myurj who annihilated Xenex. Their search leads them to a 'pocket' universe -- another universe that can only be accessed by way of a wormhole. But access to the wormhole can only be gained by enter Thallonian space and the Federation is not on good terms with the Thallonians. There are also rogues in Thallonian territory who are looking to kidnap and/or kill Robin Lefler's child.
Peter David really understands how to milk to the drama out of a moment (and I mean that in the nicest way!). He also understands the Star Trek universe and maneuvers his characters and plot well within this frame.
I was definitely hooked on the story (I sense that there is a tie to the previous books, but since I didn't read the series (now out of print) I can't be certain) and David shifted between story-lines smoothly and kept me wanting to read more to keep up with the different stories. I am extremely interesting in seeing where this goes. I'm particularly captivated by the McHenry/Lefler story-line.
This is a novelette/novella and the first part of a three-part series. Unfortunately it doesn't really stand alone as a complete work (beginning/middle/end), but the first part of a serial, and if you've read many of my reviews, you will know that I don't like it when publishers release a book that isn't a book simply to get us to buy the next one. I know...this is nothing new. Writers have been doing this for centuries. But I do think that if it's released as a book, it should be a complete book.
Even so, I enjoyed this for what it is...Star Trek escapist fiction. But because it's with a different crew and different ship, there's a slightly different edge of energy that comes with it, and I appreciate that.
Looking for a good book? It's not a stand-alone book, but The Returned, Part 1 by Peter David is good sci-fi fun and fans of Star Trek should really enjoy this book.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.
I am a huge Star Trek fan, but prior to this book had not ventured into the published fiction based upon the series. Mainly for the fact that I had no idea where to start; the Original series, Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Voyager, etc. It is very intimidating and there is little help to be found online as a good place to begin. I saw this book offered on Net Galley stating that it was the first part in a new three-part series I jumped on it and decided to try this one. My mistake. I should have done some more research and learned that there are already 18 books in the New Frontier series, that this is a part of… Live and learn I guess not that I regret requesting this book, because I don’t, it did help me learn that I want to try more Star Trek novels! Starting with book one in this series, House of Cards.
Beyond the confusion that I felt while reading this book in regards to character relationships, it wasn’t difficult to get into the book and figure out what was going on. Everything I love about Star Trek was there, but just in more detail. Watching Trek is enjoyable, reading Trek is like living it! I’m hooked and look forward to this new genre…no, style…no…well, however you would classify a Trek book I am looking forward to reading more of them. I loved the references to location, people and the entire Trek philosophy that was present in this book. There were new species in this book that I had not experienced or remembered from the TV series, but it was fun to explore is so much more detail the Trek Universe that only reading could provide.
So why the three star rating then. Mainly because I felt left out of the story a bit. Starting this book 18 titles in is a bit like starting to watch Star Trek: The Next Generation in the fourth season. Sure you are still going to get a great show, but the bonds between the characters will mean nothing to you. You won’t get the flirting between Will and Deanna or the history between Picard and Q or the Borg. You are going to be left out of the inside jokes too and motivation for character’s actions. I recommend this book, but after you have read at least some of the other previous books. Some of the plot threads in this book needed more back story than the author could provide in such a short read. I also did not care for how it was broken into a three-part release. Just give me the damn story in one book instead of these staggered releases with freaking cliffhangers.
I’m glad I read it though and hope that I can have access to the future releases because I want to see what happens out with the current crisis facing Captain Calhoun.
I am a huge Star Trek fan, but prior to this book had not ventured into the published fiction based upon the series. Mainly for the fact that I had no idea where to start; the Original series, Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Voyager, etc. It is very intimidating and there is little help to be found online as a good place to begin. I saw this book offered on Net Galley stating that it was the first part in a new three-part series I jumped on it and decided to try this one. My mistake. I should have done some more research and learned that there are already 18 books in the New Frontier series, that this is a part of… Live and learn I guess not that I regret requesting this book, because I don’t, it did help me learn that I want to try more Star Trek novels! Starting with book one in this series, House of Cards.
Beyond the confusion that I felt while reading this book in regards to character relationships, it wasn’t difficult to get into the book and figure out what was going on. Everything I love about Star Trek was there, but just in more detail. Watching Trek is enjoyable, reading Trek is like living it! I’m hooked and look forward to this new genre…no, style…no…well, however you would classify a Trek book I am looking forward to reading more of them. I loved the references to location, people and the entire Trek philosophy that was present in this book. There were new species in this book that I had not experienced or remembered from the TV series, but it was fun to explore is so much more detail the Trek Universe that only reading could provide.
So why the three star rating then. Mainly because I felt left out of the story a bit. Starting this book 18 titles in is a bit like starting to watch Star Trek: The Next Generation in the fourth season. Sure you are still going to get a great show, but the bonds between the characters will mean nothing to you. You won’t get the flirting between Will and Deanna or the history between Picard and Q or the Borg. You are going to be left out of the inside jokes too and motivation for character’s actions. I recommend this book, but after you have read at least some of the other previous books. Some of the plot threads in this book needed more back story than the author could provide in such a short read. I also did not care for how it was broken into a three-part release. Just give me the damn story in one book instead of these staggered releases with freaking cliffhangers.
I’m glad I read it though and hope that I can have access to the future releases because I want to see what happens out with the current crisis facing Captain Calhoun.
November 24, 2015
“Hail to the King, Baby!”
Star Trek: The Returned Parts I, II and, III
By Peter David
Review by: Brennan Palm
Star Trek: The Returned is probably one of the trekkiest book to have ever trekked. On top of that it’s also a good story. This three part book really surprised me due to the fact that most Star Trek (and Star Wars for that matter) books are over glorified fan service, and hold almost no entertainment value for all but the most diehard fans. These books more or less ditch that format and goes boldly where no one has gone before without completely abandoning its roots. I know it sounds confusing that I just said it was the trekkiest book to have ever trekked but at the same time different, but it just is.
I feel that Mister David was concentrating more on writing a good book than on writing a Star Trek book on which I praise him highly for. A few of the steps that made this book more good fiction than fan fiction included using a completely new crew and ship, including almost no appearances by any TV series characters, and slightly changing the usual Star Trek themes here and there.
As far as the story goes I’m not going to reveal much, as there are plenty of cliffhangers and massive plot twists and surprises, a few of them I didn’t quite grasp, as I haven’t read the other books in the series.
Our story begins with our main character, Captain Mackenzie Calhoun searching the planet Xenex for survivors of an alien attack and slowly deciding that once he finds the aforementioned aliens, he’s going to make them all dead aliens. Remember when I said the author changed the usual Star Trek tropes? Anyway Cap’n Calhoun and the crew of the Excalibur decide to go to a pocket universe to kill all the hostile aliens. Once they get to their destination they meet with an alien species with similar goals and decide to team up even though the Excalibur crew suspect something’s up. Anyway the alien’s double cross the Excalibur and Big Mac’s rage is brought to an end as he realizes the aliens want to escape to our universe and end all other sentient life, like a bunch alien space Nazis. Q is also involved though the Excalibur crew does not know why.
Anyway this trilogy contained a final plot twist that was both massive and felt like it came right out of an unaired episode of the original series. The whole story was well written and very original and is easily worth every penny of its purchasing price. To Mister David I say well done. My only problem is that the last book had some twists that helped the story but didn’t match some of the characters personalities. 4 stars and for trekkiness I give it a Tribble / 10.
Full reviews available at: http://www.thebookendfamily.weebly.com
Star Trek: The Returned Parts I, II and, III
By Peter David
Review by: Brennan Palm
Star Trek: The Returned is probably one of the trekkiest book to have ever trekked. On top of that it’s also a good story. This three part book really surprised me due to the fact that most Star Trek (and Star Wars for that matter) books are over glorified fan service, and hold almost no entertainment value for all but the most diehard fans. These books more or less ditch that format and goes boldly where no one has gone before without completely abandoning its roots. I know it sounds confusing that I just said it was the trekkiest book to have ever trekked but at the same time different, but it just is.
I feel that Mister David was concentrating more on writing a good book than on writing a Star Trek book on which I praise him highly for. A few of the steps that made this book more good fiction than fan fiction included using a completely new crew and ship, including almost no appearances by any TV series characters, and slightly changing the usual Star Trek themes here and there.
As far as the story goes I’m not going to reveal much, as there are plenty of cliffhangers and massive plot twists and surprises, a few of them I didn’t quite grasp, as I haven’t read the other books in the series.
Our story begins with our main character, Captain Mackenzie Calhoun searching the planet Xenex for survivors of an alien attack and slowly deciding that once he finds the aforementioned aliens, he’s going to make them all dead aliens. Remember when I said the author changed the usual Star Trek tropes? Anyway Cap’n Calhoun and the crew of the Excalibur decide to go to a pocket universe to kill all the hostile aliens. Once they get to their destination they meet with an alien species with similar goals and decide to team up even though the Excalibur crew suspect something’s up. Anyway the alien’s double cross the Excalibur and Big Mac’s rage is brought to an end as he realizes the aliens want to escape to our universe and end all other sentient life, like a bunch alien space Nazis. Q is also involved though the Excalibur crew does not know why.
Anyway this trilogy contained a final plot twist that was both massive and felt like it came right out of an unaired episode of the original series. The whole story was well written and very original and is easily worth every penny of its purchasing price. To Mister David I say well done. My only problem is that the last book had some twists that helped the story but didn’t match some of the characters personalities. 4 stars and for trekkiness I give it a Tribble / 10.
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