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Star Trek: Discovery #6
Dead Endless
The U.S.S. Discovery's specialty is using its spore-based hub drive to jump great distances faster than any warp-faring vessel in Starfleet. To do this, Lieutenant Paul Stamets navigates the ship through the recently revealed mycelial network, a subspace domain Discovery can briefly transit but in which it cannot remain. After responding to a startling distress call originating from within the network, the Discovery crew find themselves trapped in an inescapable realm where they will surely perish unless their missing mycelial fuel is found or restored. Is the seemingly human man found alone and alive inside the network the Starfleet officer he claims to be, or an impostor created by alien intruders who hope to extract themselves from the mycelial plane at the expense of all lives aboard Discovery?
352 pages, Paperback
First published December 17, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
September 3, 2022
For someone like me, who has found a lot of inspiration from the character of Stamets, and their relationship and (universes transcending) love with Culber, this was such a joyride and an emotional thrill.
Pleasant exploration of number of themes; tying in together bits of canon introduced separately in various media, and featuring lots of complementary thoughts and ideas sprung from those instances, previously mostly existing in the more or less formless realms of personal headcanon. All of which here rang true to the characters, and in that sense were very supportive and validating of the imagined general psyches of Paul Stamets and Hugh Culber, and great additions to their shared lore.
The story is set harmlessly in a way that disturbs the established canon very little, if at all. Which too made the reading experience that much more relaxing and worry free; not chafing against already accepted facts. Still, not insignificant, but if anything, indeed embellishing some of the formerly introduced history.
I will admit my personal focus on this being - as with the show - first and foremost Stamets, Culber and their shared experience, but other than a fulfilling 'Culmets' narrative, the story also has a dynamic teamwork drive, prominently featuring whole of the established on-screen Disco crew.
Plus, including the one lesser featured character I personally care for most: Justin Straal, Paul's 'fungal bro' and 'hetero lifemate'. Such a delight to have them here, interacting with Paul, Hugh, and the previously unknown crew of USS Glenn, too.
If there was one thing I might've noticed missing, it was some more calm and solitary moment(s), perhaps. The action is instant, and constant, and most all things happen under the watchful eyes of one or more shipmates. However, this is not a thing to despair over; true to the life aboard after all, one would imagine. (And, 'the calm' is where my personal ruminations have always lingered, so, room to easily fill in the quiet between the action is nothing but a relief, too).
I had been waiting for this book both excited as well as anxious (both for the same reason of intense love for the characters), and can happily say that after the fact, of these two, only excitement remains. Excitement, delight, and inspiration (the good and manageable kind, born of sheer "yay").
Heartfelt and beautiful. Thank you, Mr. Galanter, for doing good for our darlings. I am nothing but elated by this.
This came together during the 2nd listen, inspired by a scene.
________
(Reading updates).
Pleasant exploration of number of themes; tying in together bits of canon introduced separately in various media, and featuring lots of complementary thoughts and ideas sprung from those instances, previously mostly existing in the more or less formless realms of personal headcanon. All of which here rang true to the characters, and in that sense were very supportive and validating of the imagined general psyches of Paul Stamets and Hugh Culber, and great additions to their shared lore.
The story is set harmlessly in a way that disturbs the established canon very little, if at all. Which too made the reading experience that much more relaxing and worry free; not chafing against already accepted facts. Still, not insignificant, but if anything, indeed embellishing some of the formerly introduced history.
I will admit my personal focus on this being - as with the show - first and foremost Stamets, Culber and their shared experience, but other than a fulfilling 'Culmets' narrative, the story also has a dynamic teamwork drive, prominently featuring whole of the established on-screen Disco crew.
Plus, including the one lesser featured character I personally care for most: Justin Straal, Paul's 'fungal bro' and 'hetero lifemate'. Such a delight to have them here, interacting with Paul, Hugh, and the previously unknown crew of USS Glenn, too.
If there was one thing I might've noticed missing, it was some more calm and solitary moment(s), perhaps. The action is instant, and constant, and most all things happen under the watchful eyes of one or more shipmates. However, this is not a thing to despair over; true to the life aboard after all, one would imagine. (And, 'the calm' is where my personal ruminations have always lingered, so, room to easily fill in the quiet between the action is nothing but a relief, too).
I had been waiting for this book both excited as well as anxious (both for the same reason of intense love for the characters), and can happily say that after the fact, of these two, only excitement remains. Excitement, delight, and inspiration (the good and manageable kind, born of sheer "yay").
Heartfelt and beautiful. Thank you, Mr. Galanter, for doing good for our darlings. I am nothing but elated by this.
This came together during the 2nd listen, inspired by a scene.
________
(Reading updates).
January 11, 2020
A complex and very clever account of what actually happened to Hugh Culmets while he was trapped in the spore network. It’s rare that tie-in novels fill gaps of tv shows in any meaningful way but this one did. It also dealt with the Discovery crew’s treatment of the tardigrade, something I disliked on the show and which was left without comment. Lastly, I *loved* the alien species and the crew’s encounter with them, their communication was organic and interesting and even offered a few John Scalzi-ish humorous moments. A good read, all in all.
February 20, 2021
I absolutely hands down love this book. I'm not sure I've ever read a tie-in novel this good.
This book tore at my heartstrings and made me smile and laugh and, finally, had me a second away from full-on crying on a train by the epilogue.
This has even surpassed Una McCormack's Tilly novel and is now my favorite among the Discovery tie-ins.
Also, I see those references to Discworld and Doctor Who and I tip my hat to you, Mister Galanter.
ETA: After re-reading I can say that I still love this book.
This book tore at my heartstrings and made me smile and laugh and, finally, had me a second away from full-on crying on a train by the epilogue.
This has even surpassed Una McCormack's Tilly novel and is now my favorite among the Discovery tie-ins.
Also, I see those references to Discworld and Doctor Who and I tip my hat to you, Mister Galanter.
ETA: After re-reading I can say that I still love this book.
September 2, 2022
Not being familiar with this Star Trek series probably lowers my rating. It was an interesting concept and story but I was unfamiliar with the characters and the ship. It uses mushroom spores to travel through space? More backstory would have been helpful.
December 17, 2019
I have to give this 4 stars, because it is way better than any of the other DSC-novels I've read. Yet still it managed to leave me somehow wanting.
I started with little expectations, because so far I was quite lukewarm on the Discovery tie-in novels. And so I was positively taken with the first chapters. Not only does the story feature Paul Stamets and Hugh Culber, my way most favourite ST characters, Galanter also managed to set the right tone for them (always a tricky task with the writing of beloved show characters). Both instantly felt familiar and in-character. And not only those two. The author has a sure hand for all of the crew, which was a delight to read.
I was especially pleased that the 'second row' (Tracy Pollard, Gen Rhys, R.A. Bryce, Airiam …) all got their scenes.
The story itself started strong. Galanter showed much sensitivity for the emotional chaos of his protagonists and balanced personal scenes with a solid sporedrive adventure. A successful mix.
For about 75% of the book I felt elated and thought that I finally found a DSC book that had both, true characters and a good story. It was running towards a 5 star read.
And then nearing the end it somehow lost its focus. There were at least three chapters (or longer scenes … I did listen to it, so I'm not sure if it were whole chapters), that were superfluous, that slowed the pace, distracted from the main protagonists, ruined what could have been such a nice, round story … okay … perhaps I'm being too unfair, but my enthusiasm popped like a balloon and that made me grumpy.
Still 4 stars for those chapters that were perfect and for giving room for all of my beloved DSC side characters and for giving a true voice to the best virtual couple ever and for the great cover. (I just try to forget the dragged out ending)
I started with little expectations, because so far I was quite lukewarm on the Discovery tie-in novels. And so I was positively taken with the first chapters. Not only does the story feature Paul Stamets and Hugh Culber, my way most favourite ST characters, Galanter also managed to set the right tone for them (always a tricky task with the writing of beloved show characters). Both instantly felt familiar and in-character. And not only those two. The author has a sure hand for all of the crew, which was a delight to read.
I was especially pleased that the 'second row' (Tracy Pollard, Gen Rhys, R.A. Bryce, Airiam …) all got their scenes.
The story itself started strong. Galanter showed much sensitivity for the emotional chaos of his protagonists and balanced personal scenes with a solid sporedrive adventure. A successful mix.
For about 75% of the book I felt elated and thought that I finally found a DSC book that had both, true characters and a good story. It was running towards a 5 star read.
And then nearing the end it somehow lost its focus. There were at least three chapters (or longer scenes … I did listen to it, so I'm not sure if it were whole chapters), that were superfluous, that slowed the pace, distracted from the main protagonists, ruined what could have been such a nice, round story … okay … perhaps I'm being too unfair, but my enthusiasm popped like a balloon and that made me grumpy.
Still 4 stars for those chapters that were perfect and for giving room for all of my beloved DSC side characters and for giving a true voice to the best virtual couple ever and for the great cover. (I just try to forget the dragged out ending)
December 16, 2019
I'm happy to say I very much enjoyed this story. I was trying to work out where in the Discovery series it would fit, from the general premise of the story and it does indeed slot into it's place as you read.
I love the set up of the Discovery as we come to know it, a very interesting insight into the what ifs and might have beens. Coming from Hugh's perpsective, seeing the subtle differences in the characters lives and how that's changed them in small and large ways.
I can't deny my heart was both bursting and breaking for Hugh and Paul, who they are and aren't to each other. The coming anguish on their behalf, knowing what's to come. It's an interesting idea having the Tardigrade "Ripper" or Ephraim from season 1 returning. I haven't seen the Short Trek which seems to also have the Tardigrade in the story, which having the same name I'm assuming is the same one.
Unfortunately I must admit finding the conversations between Hugh and Ephraim the part that didn't work as well for me. I comepletely understand Hugh's frustration with the contstant repeat of "I will and I won't. I have and I haven't." Non linear comprehension is a tricky thing to discuss and for me, it was more annoying than anything else. There were a couple of times when it did work, but the rest I have to side with Hugh and beg him to stop.
Especially since Ephraim remembers the multiple conversations with Hugh, while Hugh does not, why hasn't he worked out that repeating that phrase doesn't help 80% of the time and just frustrates and upsets him?
Aside from that, I enjoyed it over all and it's lovely having a book focusing around Hugh and Paul's characters.
I love the set up of the Discovery as we come to know it, a very interesting insight into the what ifs and might have beens. Coming from Hugh's perpsective, seeing the subtle differences in the characters lives and how that's changed them in small and large ways.
I can't deny my heart was both bursting and breaking for Hugh and Paul, who they are and aren't to each other. The coming anguish on their behalf, knowing what's to come. It's an interesting idea having the Tardigrade "Ripper" or Ephraim from season 1 returning. I haven't seen the Short Trek which seems to also have the Tardigrade in the story, which having the same name I'm assuming is the same one.
Unfortunately I must admit finding the conversations between Hugh and Ephraim the part that didn't work as well for me. I comepletely understand Hugh's frustration with the contstant repeat of "I will and I won't. I have and I haven't." Non linear comprehension is a tricky thing to discuss and for me, it was more annoying than anything else. There were a couple of times when it did work, but the rest I have to side with Hugh and beg him to stop.
Especially since Ephraim remembers the multiple conversations with Hugh, while Hugh does not, why hasn't he worked out that repeating that phrase doesn't help 80% of the time and just frustrates and upsets him?
Aside from that, I enjoyed it over all and it's lovely having a book focusing around Hugh and Paul's characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2021
Beautifully written, Galanter really manages to capture everything I love about Stamets and Culber. Their connection stretching across universes was so utterly heartwarming to read. I appreciated the way the little inconsistencies early on eventually added up to reveal the truth of the premise, and I loved getting to see all the characters we know and love in a new context.
This book struck a fantastic emotional balance, leaving me laughing out loud (or at least giggling uncontrollably) at quite a few parts, and sobbing at several others, and at no point did those moments feel out of place.
The ending felt a bit haphazard at trying to put everything back into place, but maybe it's just because I didn't want it to end. Regardless, this is definitely one I will be reading again and I would be thrilled to see another Star Trek novel by this author someday.
This book struck a fantastic emotional balance, leaving me laughing out loud (or at least giggling uncontrollably) at quite a few parts, and sobbing at several others, and at no point did those moments feel out of place.
The ending felt a bit haphazard at trying to put everything back into place, but maybe it's just because I didn't want it to end. Regardless, this is definitely one I will be reading again and I would be thrilled to see another Star Trek novel by this author someday.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2021
After reading this book for a second time, I loved it so much and appreciated the journey that we see Hugh take, as he lives in his pain without Paul and he doesn't. And now seeing season 3, we see the emotional journey and changes that Hugh and Paul have endured to now be even stronger and more in love. The acknowledgements at the end of the book made me sad to think that the author doesn't get to see any more of this story play out. He's in his clearing. Such a beautiful story that he wrote and gifted to us. ❤
January 1, 2020
What a lovely book to end the year with. The author understands and portrays the characters so perfectly, from their mannerisms to their speech patterns. It's beautifully done, and quite honestly it's the closest thing to a "romance" that I've enjoyed in well, ever. I hate romance. I loved this.
December 18, 2019
So, it's obvious that I'm a big fan of Discovery, but one of the biggest downsides of the serialized format of the show as opposed to an episodic series, is that we often don't get to learn much about the characters on a deeper level. This is where Galanter absolutely shines.
Whether it be the discussion between Rhys and Airiam about the origins of her name, or the dry snarky jokes the bridge crew all make together as they eat lunch, or the deep, heartbreaking conversations between Paul and Hugh, Galanter has really nailed and strengthened these characters in a way that I wish the show would more often.
This was mostly advertised and talked about as a book about Paul, but in all honesty, I think it's more about Hugh. It fills in the details about what he experienced in the mycelial network, and it adds a devastating level of angst to the episode "Saints of Imperfection" from the second season. No wonder Hugh was so scared and terrified and, well, feral, when he was finally found by his Paul, because if he'd been facing this over and over, forgetting, knowing nothing but fear, not even his own name, then finding a Paul but not his Paul, falling in love and then being ripped away and forgetting over and over and over until he finds the right one. No wonder he didn't believe it was Paul, and no wonder he had such issues with dissociation.
God I loved it.
I did have some issues with the closure of the plot, same as others have noted, with the hasty tie back into canon, but I think it was well executed. I think I just didn't want it to end.
“Did I die in my universe, only to end up in this one, with a gentler, kinder Paul?”
Way to break my heart, Galanter.
Whether it be the discussion between Rhys and Airiam about the origins of her name, or the dry snarky jokes the bridge crew all make together as they eat lunch, or the deep, heartbreaking conversations between Paul and Hugh, Galanter has really nailed and strengthened these characters in a way that I wish the show would more often.
This was mostly advertised and talked about as a book about Paul, but in all honesty, I think it's more about Hugh. It fills in the details about what he experienced in the mycelial network, and it adds a devastating level of angst to the episode "Saints of Imperfection" from the second season. No wonder Hugh was so scared and terrified and, well, feral, when he was finally found by his Paul, because if he'd been facing this over and over, forgetting, knowing nothing but fear, not even his own name, then finding a Paul but not his Paul, falling in love and then being ripped away and forgetting over and over and over until he finds the right one. No wonder he didn't believe it was Paul, and no wonder he had such issues with dissociation.
God I loved it.
I did have some issues with the closure of the plot, same as others have noted, with the hasty tie back into canon, but I think it was well executed. I think I just didn't want it to end.
“Did I die in my universe, only to end up in this one, with a gentler, kinder Paul?”
Way to break my heart, Galanter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2022
Ein Roman, der mir überhaupt nicht gefallen hat, das aber auch an dem Gesamtkonzept dieser Star Trek Serie zusammenhängen könnte. Mein Gott; einen FTL-fähigen Pilz-Sporenantrieb, ein Myzel-Kontinuum, das Myzelnetzwerk, Myzel-Astronomen etc.
Das ist für mich hanebüchernder Unsinn, weshalb für mich dieser Roman und die gesamte TV-Serie eigentlich nicht zu ertragen ist. Bei den ersten Discovery-Romanen ging es noch um Konflikte zwischen diversen Spezies und innerhalb der Sternenflotte, aber hier ging es in erster Linie um den esoterischen Ansatz des Pilzantriebes...
Das ist für mich hanebüchernder Unsinn, weshalb für mich dieser Roman und die gesamte TV-Serie eigentlich nicht zu ertragen ist. Bei den ersten Discovery-Romanen ging es noch um Konflikte zwischen diversen Spezies und innerhalb der Sternenflotte, aber hier ging es in erster Linie um den esoterischen Ansatz des Pilzantriebes...
December 25, 2019
I quite enjoyed this book, set in the Star Trek universe, showcasing two of my favorite Star Trek characters, Paul Stamets and Hugh Culber. Dave Galanter captured the voice and mannerisms of these two characters so skillfully and spun a heart-wrenching yet beautiful tale of second chances and first chances. Add a tardigrade and the mycelial plane and you have a story that is hard to put down.
December 24, 2019
This was my first Star Trek book and I was not disappointed! I couldn't pass up a book about Stamets and Culber and their relationship. Without giving too much away, the story setting was interesting and unique. I loved all the parts with Stamets and Culber and felt the storyline really touched on the connection that they have. There was some really touching, heartbreaking moments there as well. I also enjoyed the parts with the remaining characters, particular the bridge characters. I know they don't get too much screen time, but I felt that the book was true to what we know about them.
Great read!!
Great read!!
February 19, 2021
This book is excellent, and if you're a lifelong fan of Star Trek or a Culmets shipper you're owe it to yourself to read it.
The characters popped off the page, and I heard their voices in my head without having to think about it.
Just have tissues and chocolate handy
The characters popped off the page, and I heard their voices in my head without having to think about it.
Just have tissues and chocolate handy
January 3, 2020
Wow! Dave Galanter has written a totally engrossing Discovery book. The (human/kelpian) characters were so real they came to life as I read. He was true to their personalities and histories. I was totally sucked in, unable to put this one down.
It is difficult to write a review without revealing the first spoilery 75 or so pages of the book, so if you want absolutely zero spoilers, stop here. If you're okay with the setup being revealed, continue on.
The setting for this book is a bit confusing at first. Discovery is in communication with the Glenn, but Stamets is already set up with his tardigrade DNA. There are scenes with Culber wandering around in the mycelial plane. The book seems to take place in the middle of an episode we've watched(!) but it is not quite right.
When it is revealed that the Captain of our ship is not Lorca or Pike, we finally understand this is an alternate universe, neither mirror nor prime. Now the author has leave to do whatever he wants with our friends.
I absolutely love Stamets/Culber, and Galanter does them both justice. Their love story is as poignant as ever. Culber's kindness and gentleness, Stamets' wit and intelligence both come off beautifully.
The only thing that I felt takes away from the story is that the tardigrade can talk telepathically, which I found silly. Also he has a name. A human name. A human biblical name. It was difficult to stay in the story during those scenes.
This was a really great Discovery book and I highly recommend to fans!!
It is difficult to write a review without revealing the first spoilery 75 or so pages of the book, so if you want absolutely zero spoilers, stop here. If you're okay with the setup being revealed, continue on.
The setting for this book is a bit confusing at first. Discovery is in communication with the Glenn, but Stamets is already set up with his tardigrade DNA. There are scenes with Culber wandering around in the mycelial plane. The book seems to take place in the middle of an episode we've watched(!) but it is not quite right.
When it is revealed that the Captain of our ship is not Lorca or Pike, we finally understand this is an alternate universe, neither mirror nor prime. Now the author has leave to do whatever he wants with our friends.
I absolutely love Stamets/Culber, and Galanter does them both justice. Their love story is as poignant as ever. Culber's kindness and gentleness, Stamets' wit and intelligence both come off beautifully.
The only thing that I felt takes away from the story is that the tardigrade can talk telepathically, which I found silly. Also he has a name. A human name. A human biblical name. It was difficult to stay in the story during those scenes.
This was a really great Discovery book and I highly recommend to fans!!
December 28, 2019
I was not expecting this at all. An astonishing character piece that will play with all your preconceptions of "Discovery". It manages to be missing episode-style fanwank yet beautifully, at its core, it is also an archetypal "Star Trek" story of exploration and first contact. But even with that, this is the love story of Paul Stamets and Hugh Culber, and Dave Galanter captures their mannerisms, their characters, and their relationship with great beauty. As perfect as "Star Trek" novel as one can imagine.
October 25, 2022
if i were involved in the production of star trek: discovery supplementary content i’m not sure it would have occurred to me to do a novel about hugh culber’s time in the mycelial network, and it definitely wouldn’t have occurred to me to set it largely aboard an alternate discovery with a captain michael burnham who assumed command when one gabriel lorca did in the prime universe. a captain michael burnham who formed a chosen family that’s explicitly called a family towards the end of the book with her first officer saru and their mutual surrogate mother, fleet captain phillipa georgiou.
i mean, literally all of those last few would’ve occurred to me as things to include in a fanfic au, but i wasn’t expecting to see them in commercially-released fiction. i know it didn’t seem to have much utility beyond this one story, but i want a whole series of books (or at least fanfics) set in this universe. pretty please?
anyway, in this novel alternate discovery finds itself trapped in the mycelial network and faced with a ticking clock, tons of technical problems, and eventually a first contact. also there’s an extremely sweet gay romance that bends the laws of physics to its will. that do anything for you? it certainly did something for me.
—
check out my megareview of the star trek discovery books & comics on my blog, 24,000 miles to the moon! https://24000milestothemoon.com/2022/...
i mean, literally all of those last few would’ve occurred to me as things to include in a fanfic au, but i wasn’t expecting to see them in commercially-released fiction. i know it didn’t seem to have much utility beyond this one story, but i want a whole series of books (or at least fanfics) set in this universe. pretty please?
anyway, in this novel alternate discovery finds itself trapped in the mycelial network and faced with a ticking clock, tons of technical problems, and eventually a first contact. also there’s an extremely sweet gay romance that bends the laws of physics to its will. that do anything for you? it certainly did something for me.
—
check out my megareview of the star trek discovery books & comics on my blog, 24,000 miles to the moon! https://24000milestothemoon.com/2022/...
February 5, 2020
I enjoyed this once it got going, but it took too long to get there.
Once you get past this it's a fun read, exploring the mycelial network in far more detail than the TV does. Excellent Culber/Stamets action throughout.
Once you get past this it's a fun read, exploring the mycelial network in far more detail than the TV does. Excellent Culber/Stamets action throughout.
May 6, 2021
A very moving and touching entry into the Discovery series and Trek books generally. It goes to places emotionally that other books are unwilling to venture. Though Disco as a series is lovingly known for going where no one has gone before and undoubtedly traversing relationships , especially ones bound together across universes is somewhere it had yet to go. I'm settled on 4 maybe 4.5 stars, only because at times I find Stamets to be annoying as even Hugh points out. This other timeline was thrilling to explore though and I enjoyed the subtle differences between the two, as well as what connects back to Disco S1 which I havnt seen in years and now wish to go back and re-watch those earlier episodes. All told the story has a deep dive into a very loving and important relationship between Paul and Hugh, but on the second level includes what you always want in Trek, first contact and exploration. Let the haters get mad at this one! I don't care! I love it!
May 28, 2020
Dead Endless is a moving story about characters I love. The story is not what it initially appears to be, but eventually reveals itself to be much more poignant that it would seem at first glance. Dave Galanter is one of my favorite Trek authors, and his writing does not disappoint here. In fact, Dead Endless was my pick for top Star Trek novel of 2019, and it is well-deserved.
Full review (video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-xDj...
Full review (video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-xDj...
February 7, 2020
While I have enjoyed most of the Star Trek: Discovery tie-in novels so far, there has been a regular formula to them. Take one principal character, add a hitherto unseen crisis and a liberal serving of backstory. Which makes Dave Galanter’s DEAD ENDLESS even more exciting for avoiding these tropes, offering up one of the more complex series tie-ins to date.
Having ripped through character profiles for Burnham, Saru, Tilly and even Pike/Spock, this volume finally turns its attention to Lt. Commander Paul Stamets. Being the first openly gay regular character in a Star Trek television series, I asked in my review for The Way to the Stars: “Can we please get the story of Paul Stamets coming out in the 23nd century?” After all, what does that look like in the idealised vision of the future?
Galanter doesn’t take this expected path. In fact, he doesn’t even follow the existing one. Taking place entirely with an alternate universe, it’s one where the Battle of the Binary Stars didn’t end in war and Burnham is now Captain of the Discovery. Troubled by unexplained dreams, Stamets helps guide them through the mycelial network where they encounter two unexpected things: a distress call from an unknown source – and Doctor Hugh Culber.
This is one of those perfect side stories that could have easily been an episode of the show. Galanter cleverly fills in the gaps of what Stamets and Culber (or Culmets if you like) experienced prior to his return (in the excellent second season episode “Saints of Imperfection”) while offering us a new first contact outing that doesn’t impact on the primary continuity. If this were a TV episode it would probably be considered a “bottle show,” one that uses the existing cast and crew on a mostly ship-bound narrative.
Yet one of the primary attractions to this story is that of a star-crossed romance between Culmets. More than simply feeding the fans who ship this already well-rounded screen couple, Galanter crafts a tangible connection between the duo, even if we know that they come from different universes (I’m not crying, by the way: you are crying). The long stretches of dialogue between Ephraim, the space-dwelling tardigrade, and Culber talk about finding your “clearing,” get to the heart of what ‘Trek is about. While it’s literally referring to the pockets of linearity in mycelial space, it’s also an apt analogy for following one’s bliss.
Which is the other thing that Galanter is exceptionally good at: writing in the voices of the established characters. When the first of the Discovery books were released, there wasn’t much to work with in terms of screen reference. (Hell, the show didn’t even establish the names of half of the bridge crew in any overt fashion). Yet as Galanter acknowledges in his afterword, the voices of these actors (especially Anthony Rapp and Mary Wiseman) are pitch perfect on page.
When Star Trek: Discovery returns for a third season in 2020, it promises to have a very different outlook – not to mention a timeline we’ve never seen before. What DEAD ENDLESS demonstrates so well is that it is possible to put this crew in an alternate setting and still retain the core of the characters. Here’s hoping that the new Picard show, and its own tie-ins, doesn’t overshadow the excellent foundations established here.
Having ripped through character profiles for Burnham, Saru, Tilly and even Pike/Spock, this volume finally turns its attention to Lt. Commander Paul Stamets. Being the first openly gay regular character in a Star Trek television series, I asked in my review for The Way to the Stars: “Can we please get the story of Paul Stamets coming out in the 23nd century?” After all, what does that look like in the idealised vision of the future?
Galanter doesn’t take this expected path. In fact, he doesn’t even follow the existing one. Taking place entirely with an alternate universe, it’s one where the Battle of the Binary Stars didn’t end in war and Burnham is now Captain of the Discovery. Troubled by unexplained dreams, Stamets helps guide them through the mycelial network where they encounter two unexpected things: a distress call from an unknown source – and Doctor Hugh Culber.
This is one of those perfect side stories that could have easily been an episode of the show. Galanter cleverly fills in the gaps of what Stamets and Culber (or Culmets if you like) experienced prior to his return (in the excellent second season episode “Saints of Imperfection”) while offering us a new first contact outing that doesn’t impact on the primary continuity. If this were a TV episode it would probably be considered a “bottle show,” one that uses the existing cast and crew on a mostly ship-bound narrative.
Yet one of the primary attractions to this story is that of a star-crossed romance between Culmets. More than simply feeding the fans who ship this already well-rounded screen couple, Galanter crafts a tangible connection between the duo, even if we know that they come from different universes (I’m not crying, by the way: you are crying). The long stretches of dialogue between Ephraim, the space-dwelling tardigrade, and Culber talk about finding your “clearing,” get to the heart of what ‘Trek is about. While it’s literally referring to the pockets of linearity in mycelial space, it’s also an apt analogy for following one’s bliss.
Which is the other thing that Galanter is exceptionally good at: writing in the voices of the established characters. When the first of the Discovery books were released, there wasn’t much to work with in terms of screen reference. (Hell, the show didn’t even establish the names of half of the bridge crew in any overt fashion). Yet as Galanter acknowledges in his afterword, the voices of these actors (especially Anthony Rapp and Mary Wiseman) are pitch perfect on page.
When Star Trek: Discovery returns for a third season in 2020, it promises to have a very different outlook – not to mention a timeline we’ve never seen before. What DEAD ENDLESS demonstrates so well is that it is possible to put this crew in an alternate setting and still retain the core of the characters. Here’s hoping that the new Picard show, and its own tie-ins, doesn’t overshadow the excellent foundations established here.
December 27, 2019
I was looking forward to this book so much and it did not disappoint. It's been a while since I read a book in less than a day.
I felt at home right away with Paul and Hugh, their characterization familiar and well done. The emotions coming from the pages were deep and moving.
It read in most parts like a fanfic and mean that as the HIGHEST compliment.
I would have liked some more quiet time between them, unsupervised and intimate. I even felt like the overall story of the rescue mission, the new aliens and Captain Burnham took a bit too much time away from the main focus of Hugh and Paul near the end where Paul was suddenly missing from the story for at least two chapters.
This would have been a book where I'd liked some more chapters after the climax of the side story, but the call of other!Stamets to other!Culber was still well done. I wonder what that Culber's reaction would be once Paul comes out with the reason for the call at some point.
Definitely one of my favourites among the Discovery novels.
I felt at home right away with Paul and Hugh, their characterization familiar and well done. The emotions coming from the pages were deep and moving.
It read in most parts like a fanfic and mean that as the HIGHEST compliment.
I would have liked some more quiet time between them, unsupervised and intimate. I even felt like the overall story of the rescue mission, the new aliens and Captain Burnham took a bit too much time away from the main focus of Hugh and Paul near the end where Paul was suddenly missing from the story for at least two chapters.
This would have been a book where I'd liked some more chapters after the climax of the side story, but the call of other!Stamets to other!Culber was still well done. I wonder what that Culber's reaction would be once Paul comes out with the reason for the call at some point.
Definitely one of my favourites among the Discovery novels.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2019
Wonderful book about the enduring Stamets-Culber relationship, the mycelial network, and an AU where the Klingon War never happened. Dave Galanter wrote beautifully and I loved how he set up every reveal in the book. The scenes between Hugh and Paul were expertly done—sensitive, funny, loving, and tragic. I’ll also say a part of me wanted Disco to take place in this universe! Captain Burnham and Fleet Captain Georgiou just felt so right! Another awesome DSC tie-in. All six books really add depth to the characters and universe (or this specific clearing) and I can’t recommend them more. Dead Endless ranks up among my favorites!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2019
I was happy to discover for myself that this was not a novelization of the episodes from ST Discovery thanks to There was a good amount of time spent on their relationship as well as some circular conversations between Culber and a tardigrade. The rest of the story focused on the issues on Discovery and how Starfleet will save the day. It felt like a typical Star Trek novel, and I enjoyed it. (Some language)
April 11, 2020
Somewhere around the middle I got lost a bit. When the beings manifested themselves. That was a bit too much to keep track of in, maybe just because I was listening to the audio book. I read a message on my phone and suddenly everything was different within seconds? That was one layer of twists and complications too much for my attention span.
But apart from that I loved the writing and the narration. Especially how Saru was written was just brilliant. Funny, charming, ...
Looking forward to the next Discovery novel. So far none of them disappointed.
But apart from that I loved the writing and the narration. Especially how Saru was written was just brilliant. Funny, charming, ...
Looking forward to the next Discovery novel. So far none of them disappointed.
August 7, 2020
this book made me wanna scream but in a good way
i also cried and that's just something you need to accept
i also cried and that's just something you need to accept
November 1, 2020
3.5 / POOR HUGH!!! Now I just need several more books involving these two in the universe we know. I was glad to be able to pick this up after catching up on the show.
February 3, 2020
A clever direction - philosophical and mysterious and more!
Galanter gives us the USS Discovery ... but one with CAPTAIN Burnham. A Paul Stamets meeting Hugh Culber ... but not his Hugh. And there's a talking (sort-of) tardigrade. It's a very trippy story - but one that leverages off of ideas and events within the Discovery series in an interesting and engaging way.
Galanter gives us the USS Discovery ... but one with CAPTAIN Burnham. A Paul Stamets meeting Hugh Culber ... but not his Hugh. And there's a talking (sort-of) tardigrade. It's a very trippy story - but one that leverages off of ideas and events within the Discovery series in an interesting and engaging way.
January 31, 2020
Dead Endless takes the approach of seeing the primary events unfolding from the perspective of a alternative universe! :D Dead Endless is a great exploration of a universe that went a little different from the regular flavoured one and has surprising incites that impact the normal Prime universe! :D Dead Endless is a net trip around the Mycenial network! :D
Crisp High Five! :D Brilliant and Highly Recommended! :D Get It When You Can! :D
Crisp High Five! :D Brilliant and Highly Recommended! :D Get It When You Can! :D
January 26, 2020
This was a delightful read. (Am I the only one hoping for more novels set in the "clearing" most of this novel takes place? Please please please make it so! Pun intended.)
The novel gave depth to Paul & Hugh's relationship to which Disco alludes to - frankly, mostly via Rapp & Cruz's wonderful acting, rather than any subtlety on the part of the show's writing.
And in general Dead Endless adds more dimension to pretty much every character.
I loved the aliens - even if the change of tone they ended up bringing might have been a little jarring.
I was deciding between 5 and 4 stars, bc. I enjoyed it *a lot*, but I think A Very Strong Four suits this novel the best.
The novel gave depth to Paul & Hugh's relationship to which Disco alludes to - frankly, mostly via Rapp & Cruz's wonderful acting, rather than any subtlety on the part of the show's writing.
And in general Dead Endless adds more dimension to pretty much every character.
I loved the aliens - even if the change of tone they ended up bringing might have been a little jarring.
I was deciding between 5 and 4 stars, bc. I enjoyed it *a lot*, but I think A Very Strong Four suits this novel the best.
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