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Star Trek: The Next Generation
Collateral Damage
From the New York Times bestselling author of Star Desperate Hours comes an original, thrilling novel set in the universe of Star The Next Generation !
The past returns to haunt Captain Jean-Luc Picard--a crime he thought long buried has been exposed, and he must return to Earth to answer for his role in a conspiracy that some call treason. Meanwhile, the U.S.S. Enterprise is sent to apprehend pirates who have stolen vital technology from a fragile Federation colony. But acting captain Commander Worf discovers that the pirates’ motives are not what they seem, and that sometimes standing for justice means defying the law….
The past returns to haunt Captain Jean-Luc Picard--a crime he thought long buried has been exposed, and he must return to Earth to answer for his role in a conspiracy that some call treason. Meanwhile, the U.S.S. Enterprise is sent to apprehend pirates who have stolen vital technology from a fragile Federation colony. But acting captain Commander Worf discovers that the pirates’ motives are not what they seem, and that sometimes standing for justice means defying the law….
12 pages, Audio CD
First published October 1, 2019
121 people are currently reading
513 people want to read
About the author
David Mack
123 books666 followersDavid Mack is the New York Times bestselling author of 39 novels of science-fiction, fantasy, and adventure, including the Star Trek Destiny and Cold Equations trilogies.
Beyond novels, Mack's writing credits span several media, including television (for produced episodes of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine), games, and comic books.
Follow him on Twitter @davidalanmack or like his Facebook page.
Beyond novels, Mack's writing credits span several media, including television (for produced episodes of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine), games, and comic books.
Follow him on Twitter @davidalanmack or like his Facebook page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
October 14, 2020
I'm a big fan of Star Trek, Next Generation. Unfortunately, this sanctimonious trial of a story should not have seen the light of day and does a disservice to the series. 2 of 10 stars
January 7, 2020
There are two completely distinct story lines here. In one, Picard is the subject of a legal proceeding, accused of participating in the murder of the previous Federation president and sedition against the Federation. Picard seems uncharacteristically maudlin and deflated throughout, and the proceeding itself is mundane and predictable. Yawn.
However, the other story is riveting. This follows the Enterprise's search for and recovery of a stolen Husnock weapon of mass destruction and is full of suspense, action, humor and some great character development. Worf shines as acting captain, and Starfleet Intelligence operative Okana is simply a delight - wisecracking and cheeky, especially in his flirty banter with Lieutenant Šmrhová, the substitute second in command while LaForge is off ship, and Lieutenant Naomi Wildman, of Star Trek Voyager fame. The sequences of first person narration by the desperate, revenge hungry Nausicaan leader are also outstanding.
Fortunately, most of the book is occupied by the second story, making this a genuinely compelling read.
However, the other story is riveting. This follows the Enterprise's search for and recovery of a stolen Husnock weapon of mass destruction and is full of suspense, action, humor and some great character development. Worf shines as acting captain, and Starfleet Intelligence operative Okana is simply a delight - wisecracking and cheeky, especially in his flirty banter with Lieutenant Šmrhová, the substitute second in command while LaForge is off ship, and Lieutenant Naomi Wildman, of Star Trek Voyager fame. The sequences of first person narration by the desperate, revenge hungry Nausicaan leader are also outstanding.
Fortunately, most of the book is occupied by the second story, making this a genuinely compelling read.
November 28, 2022
While Picard is on trial on Earth, Worf captains the Enterprise as they try to track down a gang of space pirates who have stolen a deadly weapon. The trial scenes are predictable and formulaic. Luckily the other story helps to make up for the rather boring courtroom drama, as we learn the motivation and intentions behind the pirates actions. The constant shifting between first and third person narration is definitely annoying and jarring.
March 3, 2021
Superb. In general, Star Trek does not tackle the law or the legal profession in a very mature way. Most of the great trial episodes have few lawyers and the trials they conduct are chaotic, confusing, a hodgepodge of legal jargon. In short, they're a mess. I get the impression that Roddenberry hated lawyers and he thought they were just one more anachronism that would be eliminated by the 23rd or 24th century. But that can't be case. Don't get me wrong, it's a beautiful vision of the future. If we're ever going to get there though, it will be because of our regard for the Rule of Law and Due Process and we'll have to have good lawyers.
It's with that in mind that I picked up this masterpiece, Collateral Damage, earlier this month. And I got there by reading all of the A Time To series, PAD's 20 + New Frontier series (thank you, Mr. Mack, for putting a Thallonian in this book), the Destiny Series, and so many other great works that he did with Dayton Ward, Christopher L. Bennett, Keith R.A. DiCandido, and others. It's been a long and complicated ride.
I knew Picard’s trial was coming. From the perspective of a lawyer, there are just no other ST novels or episodes that do justice (pun intended) to the legal profession and to the courtroom experience than Collateral Damage. From the perspective of a defendant who has had to put his life in the hands of lawyers and wait for a jury of one's peers or a judge to decide his fate –this was spot on.
Having worked my way through so many of those post-Nemesis novels, this was a very satisfying finale for which I had been actively waiting. I have never before used this word: gobsmacked. I was gobsmacked.
It's with that in mind that I picked up this masterpiece, Collateral Damage, earlier this month. And I got there by reading all of the A Time To series, PAD's 20 + New Frontier series (thank you, Mr. Mack, for putting a Thallonian in this book), the Destiny Series, and so many other great works that he did with Dayton Ward, Christopher L. Bennett, Keith R.A. DiCandido, and others. It's been a long and complicated ride.
I knew Picard’s trial was coming. From the perspective of a lawyer, there are just no other ST novels or episodes that do justice (pun intended) to the legal profession and to the courtroom experience than Collateral Damage. From the perspective of a defendant who has had to put his life in the hands of lawyers and wait for a jury of one's peers or a judge to decide his fate –this was spot on.
Having worked my way through so many of those post-Nemesis novels, this was a very satisfying finale for which I had been actively waiting. I have never before used this word: gobsmacked. I was gobsmacked.
June 22, 2020
I liked the fast-moving pace of the story, even Picard's court room scenes, but I particularly loved the way Worf gets to shine in this tale.
A fun, fast-paced story that connects back to a few key moments in Picard’s life: the inquiry into what happened to one of Picard’s previous ships, the Stargazer, Wolf359 and his brother’s death. And to his many years as a Captain and a mentor to Worf. There’s also a connection to Voyager and one of its former crew members who gave birth to a daughter during then7-year trip back home. So, you it helped if you were familiar with these things when reading this book.
There are two major initiating events in this story:
-An new inquiry/court case is launched by the Federation Attorney General into evidence that has surfaced linking Picard to a coup some years previous against a Prime Minister of another planet. The conspirators were Starfleet Admirals and Section 31, a covert part of Starfleet Intelligence.
-A remnant of a species called the Nausicaans, whose planet was destroyed by the Borg on their way to Earth, begin stealing tech for some unknown purpose, one of which had been used for a sting by a Section 31 operative, Okona. Okona loses this to the Nausicaans, and begins chasing the Nausicaans around Federation space. The Nausicaans also hit and critically damage a station during the theft of some highly proprietary tech, which brings the Enterprise, with Acting Captain Worf (in Picard’s absence) to the rescue. Worf sends engineering personnel to the station, among them Geordie.
Okona, while hot on the Nausicans’ trail, is picked up by the Enterprise. His personality and his evasiveness rub everyone the wrong way, until Starfleet Intelligence forces the Enterprise to let Okona go.
So, there are multiple situations at play here, with Picard’s future and many lives at stake. Picard could face imprisonment, if found guilty, Geordie and everyone on the station could all die without critical repairs to the station. And Worf and the Enterprise are finding it hard to capture the Nausicaans and the stolen tech, while Section 31 is in the background muddying up the Enterprise’s ability to accomplish anything.
The action is pretty fast, there’s humour and peril, and I liked Picard’s characterization, while he answers difficult questions on the stand about a mission he had not realized had been twisted.
Geordie is his usual really smart and enthusiastic and positive self, doing his damnedest to solve problems and prevent deaths.
I think the character who really shone in his story is Worf. He’s really grown and learned from his many assignments and responsibilities, and gets a chance to resolve a terrible situation in a distinctly mature and thoughtful way. Yay for a character I always thought got short shrift on the tv show.
This story was a solid 4 stars for me right till the one sour note right at the end. The story loses a star for this.
A fun, fast-paced story that connects back to a few key moments in Picard’s life: the inquiry into what happened to one of Picard’s previous ships, the Stargazer, Wolf359 and his brother’s death. And to his many years as a Captain and a mentor to Worf. There’s also a connection to Voyager and one of its former crew members who gave birth to a daughter during then7-year trip back home. So, you it helped if you were familiar with these things when reading this book.
There are two major initiating events in this story:
-An new inquiry/court case is launched by the Federation Attorney General into evidence that has surfaced linking Picard to a coup some years previous against a Prime Minister of another planet. The conspirators were Starfleet Admirals and Section 31, a covert part of Starfleet Intelligence.
-A remnant of a species called the Nausicaans, whose planet was destroyed by the Borg on their way to Earth, begin stealing tech for some unknown purpose, one of which had been used for a sting by a Section 31 operative, Okona. Okona loses this to the Nausicaans, and begins chasing the Nausicaans around Federation space. The Nausicaans also hit and critically damage a station during the theft of some highly proprietary tech, which brings the Enterprise, with Acting Captain Worf (in Picard’s absence) to the rescue. Worf sends engineering personnel to the station, among them Geordie.
Okona, while hot on the Nausicans’ trail, is picked up by the Enterprise. His personality and his evasiveness rub everyone the wrong way, until Starfleet Intelligence forces the Enterprise to let Okona go.
So, there are multiple situations at play here, with Picard’s future and many lives at stake. Picard could face imprisonment, if found guilty, Geordie and everyone on the station could all die without critical repairs to the station. And Worf and the Enterprise are finding it hard to capture the Nausicaans and the stolen tech, while Section 31 is in the background muddying up the Enterprise’s ability to accomplish anything.
The action is pretty fast, there’s humour and peril, and I liked Picard’s characterization, while he answers difficult questions on the stand about a mission he had not realized had been twisted.
Geordie is his usual really smart and enthusiastic and positive self, doing his damnedest to solve problems and prevent deaths.
I think the character who really shone in his story is Worf. He’s really grown and learned from his many assignments and responsibilities, and gets a chance to resolve a terrible situation in a distinctly mature and thoughtful way. Yay for a character I always thought got short shrift on the tv show.
This story was a solid 4 stars for me right till the one sour note right at the end. The story loses a star for this.
October 5, 2019
This novel is packed...almost too packed, and I do have to say that I was far more invested in the Picard side of the story. That said, the rest of the novel is so full of plot, events, and characters that it's certainly never boring. I just wish some of it could have been hived off into a separate novel, as the Picard storyline is as intense and gripping as anything you'll find in a Trek novel. Where it all goes from here should be interesting indeed.
March 5, 2021
Dieser Roman von (im Perryversum würde man ihn Exposéautor nennen) David Mack präsentiert nun den vorläufige Höhepunkt nach den Enthüllungen um den geheimnisvollen Geheimdienst Sektion 31, der den "tiefen Staat" in der Förderation der Planeten repräsentierte, durch die Reportage der Journalistin Ozla Graniv. (nachzulesen in:
Dabei kam auch die Abdankung und spätere Ermordung des Förderationspräsidenten Min Zife zur Sprache und deren Strippenzieher, die dies, zusammen mit den Agenten der Sektion 31, durchgezogen haben. Dass dabei auch der, in der Förderation hoch geachtete, Sternenflotten-Captain Jean-Luc Picard in dieser Affäre eine unrühmliche Rolle gespielt hat, wurde von David Mack und anderen Autoren bereits in früheren Romanen zitiert und der kommende Prozess gegen ihn vorbereitet, der nun in diesem Buch sein Finale findet.
Auf die Ermordung Zifes wurde in verschiedenen Romanen zwar Bezug genommen, jedoch wurden die Handlungen, die dazu führten, noch nicht ins Deutsche übersetzt. Ich meine mich zu erinnern, dass Zife in der TV-Serie (DS9 und TNG) eine undurchsichtige Rolle gespielt hatte, sein Sturz wurde durch seine Nachfolgerin Nanietta Bacco in dem Roman
erwähnt, aber nie näher beleuchtet.
Doch der Roman beginnt mit einer Szene kurz nach dem Ende der Borg-Invasion der Galaxis, als der Nausikaaner Kinogar auf seiner, von den Borg verwüsteten und zerstörten Heimatwelt schaut und über die Schuld der Förderation sinniert, die nicht gekommen ist um Nausikaa zu beschützen und danach keine Hilfe zum Wiederaufbau angeboten hat, sein Hass führt zu einem Rachefeldzug gegen die Förderation und speziell gegen die Erde.
Die Haupthandlung führt gleichzeitig zur ST-Gegenwart des Februars 2381 zurück, als Picard sein Kommando über die Enterprise an Worf übergibt, um sich seinem Prozess auf der Erde zu stellen.
Die Handlung findet dabei auf zwei Ebenen statt. Da sind zum einen die erwähnten Rachegefühle der Nausikaaner und auf der anderen die Gerichtsverhandlung gegen Captain Picard. In beiden Erzählsträngen werden die Charaktere gut dargestellt und durchlaufen auch die ein oder andere Entwicklung. Die Absetzung Zifes, was Picard schon so viele schlaflose Nächte bereitet hat, kommt endlich ans Licht und er kann offen darüber sprechen, auch wenn es diesmal ausschließlich vor Gericht passiert. Ein Verteidiger steht ihm zur Seite, der ihm mit seiner Erfahrung und Kunst der Verteidigung letztendlich aus der Patsche hilft, Picard will voll und ganz die Wahrheit erzählen, egal welche Konsequenzen das haben wird. Dieser Strang der Geschichte ist für mich das absolute Highlight des Romans.
Es erinnert an ein Gerichtsdrama alá "The Good Fight", "Matlock" oder von John Grisham und hat doch so viel eigene Elemente in sich, dass es als Sologeschichte super funktioniert hätte. Doch David Mack war dies nicht genug und er fügt noch viele kleine Storys mit ein. Da haben wir Thadiun Okona, der aus der 2. TNG-Folge „Der unmögliche Captain Okona“ bekannt ist und nun beim Sternenflottengeheimdienst als aktiver Agent arbeitet. Er sollte verdeckt eine Waffe der Husnock zum Kauf anbieten, um damit einige gefährliche Individuen aus den Verkehr zu ziehen, doch das lief mächtig schief und die Nausikaaner bekommen die Waffen in ihren Besitz.
Was sich zunächst wie ein typischer „die Föderation ist an allem Schuld“-Racheplan anfühlte, enthält im weiteren Verlauf sehr viel Tiefe und wird – sehr positiv – in Trek-Tradition aufgelöst. Action gibt es zwar, aber die ist überschaubar.
Erst als die Föderation realisiert, das man die Nausikaaner im Stich gelassen hat, findet ein Umdenken statt. Denn wie Worf richtig sagt, "sollte man besser sein als das" – und ist es in Folge auch. Denn der Konflikt wird unblutig beendet, als Worf zu dem Anführer der Bösewichte durchdringen kann. Die bekommen dann sogar eine neue Welt. Dies ist m.E. ein großartiger und passender Twist, weil man gemeinsam nach vorne schaut und nach Frieden strebt, dies ist eine zeitlose Botschaft. Ebenso, dass man diplomatisch Verständnis füreinander aufbringt.
Im Gegensatz dazu wird die juristische Auseinandersetzung im Gerichtssaal gnadenlos und völlig losgelöst von den realen Taten Picards ausgefochten, Philippa Louvois (die man bereits aus der TNG Folge mit Data's Menschenrechtsprozess kennt), agiert hier ziemlich bissig und will Picard unbedingt ruinieren. Einen Roman vorher hatte sie noch gesagt, das sie eigentlich nicht an Picards Schuld glaubt. Ein Bruch mit dem Charakter, der vor allem mehr ins Gewicht fällt, wenn man kurz vorher den Vorgänger gelesen hat, aber vieleicht gehörte diese Fehleinschätzung zu Macks Idee zu einem Perspektive-Wechsel um zusätzlich Spannung zu erzeugen.? Dafür ist diesmal Admiral Akaar noch mehr auf Picards Seite und will ihn retten. Schön war auch, dass es einige schöne Winkelzüge während der Verhandlung gab...
Alles in allem ist dies wieder ein großartiger Roman von David Mack, der mit der Gerichtsverhandlungs- oder mit dem Nausikaaner-Handlungsstrang die Figuren korrekt und passend zusammen agieren läßt, er lenkt mit kleinen Umwegen ab, bringt aber alle zum Schluss wieder zusammen. Einen besonderen Trick schaffte Mack durch die Ich-Perspektive der zwei Protagonisten Captain Okona und dem nausikaanischen Anführer Kinogar. Den Gedanken der beiden zu folgen und die Taten auf der anderen Seite zu beobachten, sind genau das, was die Geschichte um die Nausikaaner auch so besonders macht. Als gefürchtete Söldner bekannt, haben sie doch mehr Herz, als es bisher bekannt war. Okona hingegen erweist sich als der Hallodri, den man bereits aus der TV-Serie kennt. Immer ein Spruch auf den Lippen, schönen Frauen nicht abgeneigt und trotzdem so trickreich unterwegs, dass er jede Situation meistern kann. Zudem noch witzig, was angesichts der grundlegenden Geschichte auch mal etwas Entspannung bringt.
Im Endeffekt, schafft Mack ein Abschluss, der laufenden Post Nemesis Handlung, ich fürchte sogar, dass dies in Deutschland das Ende von Star Trek in der literarischen Form darstellt, da CrossCult bisher in seiner Verlagsvorschau kein Star Trek mehr anbietet, allerdings ist mir noch nicht bekannt, dass sie es endgültig aufgegeben haben, Star Trek zu verlegen... ICH HOFFE NICHT !
Dabei kam auch die Abdankung und spätere Ermordung des Förderationspräsidenten Min Zife zur Sprache und deren Strippenzieher, die dies, zusammen mit den Agenten der Sektion 31, durchgezogen haben. Dass dabei auch der, in der Förderation hoch geachtete, Sternenflotten-Captain Jean-Luc Picard in dieser Affäre eine unrühmliche Rolle gespielt hat, wurde von David Mack und anderen Autoren bereits in früheren Romanen zitiert und der kommende Prozess gegen ihn vorbereitet, der nun in diesem Buch sein Finale findet.Auf die Ermordung Zifes wurde in verschiedenen Romanen zwar Bezug genommen, jedoch wurden die Handlungen, die dazu führten, noch nicht ins Deutsche übersetzt. Ich meine mich zu erinnern, dass Zife in der TV-Serie (DS9 und TNG) eine undurchsichtige Rolle gespielt hatte, sein Sturz wurde durch seine Nachfolgerin Nanietta Bacco in dem Roman
erwähnt, aber nie näher beleuchtet.Doch der Roman beginnt mit einer Szene kurz nach dem Ende der Borg-Invasion der Galaxis, als der Nausikaaner Kinogar auf seiner, von den Borg verwüsteten und zerstörten Heimatwelt schaut und über die Schuld der Förderation sinniert, die nicht gekommen ist um Nausikaa zu beschützen und danach keine Hilfe zum Wiederaufbau angeboten hat, sein Hass führt zu einem Rachefeldzug gegen die Förderation und speziell gegen die Erde.
Die Haupthandlung führt gleichzeitig zur ST-Gegenwart des Februars 2381 zurück, als Picard sein Kommando über die Enterprise an Worf übergibt, um sich seinem Prozess auf der Erde zu stellen.
Die Handlung findet dabei auf zwei Ebenen statt. Da sind zum einen die erwähnten Rachegefühle der Nausikaaner und auf der anderen die Gerichtsverhandlung gegen Captain Picard. In beiden Erzählsträngen werden die Charaktere gut dargestellt und durchlaufen auch die ein oder andere Entwicklung. Die Absetzung Zifes, was Picard schon so viele schlaflose Nächte bereitet hat, kommt endlich ans Licht und er kann offen darüber sprechen, auch wenn es diesmal ausschließlich vor Gericht passiert. Ein Verteidiger steht ihm zur Seite, der ihm mit seiner Erfahrung und Kunst der Verteidigung letztendlich aus der Patsche hilft, Picard will voll und ganz die Wahrheit erzählen, egal welche Konsequenzen das haben wird. Dieser Strang der Geschichte ist für mich das absolute Highlight des Romans.
Es erinnert an ein Gerichtsdrama alá "The Good Fight", "Matlock" oder von John Grisham und hat doch so viel eigene Elemente in sich, dass es als Sologeschichte super funktioniert hätte. Doch David Mack war dies nicht genug und er fügt noch viele kleine Storys mit ein. Da haben wir Thadiun Okona, der aus der 2. TNG-Folge „Der unmögliche Captain Okona“ bekannt ist und nun beim Sternenflottengeheimdienst als aktiver Agent arbeitet. Er sollte verdeckt eine Waffe der Husnock zum Kauf anbieten, um damit einige gefährliche Individuen aus den Verkehr zu ziehen, doch das lief mächtig schief und die Nausikaaner bekommen die Waffen in ihren Besitz.
Was sich zunächst wie ein typischer „die Föderation ist an allem Schuld“-Racheplan anfühlte, enthält im weiteren Verlauf sehr viel Tiefe und wird – sehr positiv – in Trek-Tradition aufgelöst. Action gibt es zwar, aber die ist überschaubar.
Erst als die Föderation realisiert, das man die Nausikaaner im Stich gelassen hat, findet ein Umdenken statt. Denn wie Worf richtig sagt, "sollte man besser sein als das" – und ist es in Folge auch. Denn der Konflikt wird unblutig beendet, als Worf zu dem Anführer der Bösewichte durchdringen kann. Die bekommen dann sogar eine neue Welt. Dies ist m.E. ein großartiger und passender Twist, weil man gemeinsam nach vorne schaut und nach Frieden strebt, dies ist eine zeitlose Botschaft. Ebenso, dass man diplomatisch Verständnis füreinander aufbringt.
Im Gegensatz dazu wird die juristische Auseinandersetzung im Gerichtssaal gnadenlos und völlig losgelöst von den realen Taten Picards ausgefochten, Philippa Louvois (die man bereits aus der TNG Folge mit Data's Menschenrechtsprozess kennt), agiert hier ziemlich bissig und will Picard unbedingt ruinieren. Einen Roman vorher hatte sie noch gesagt, das sie eigentlich nicht an Picards Schuld glaubt. Ein Bruch mit dem Charakter, der vor allem mehr ins Gewicht fällt, wenn man kurz vorher den Vorgänger gelesen hat, aber vieleicht gehörte diese Fehleinschätzung zu Macks Idee zu einem Perspektive-Wechsel um zusätzlich Spannung zu erzeugen.? Dafür ist diesmal Admiral Akaar noch mehr auf Picards Seite und will ihn retten. Schön war auch, dass es einige schöne Winkelzüge während der Verhandlung gab...
Alles in allem ist dies wieder ein großartiger Roman von David Mack, der mit der Gerichtsverhandlungs- oder mit dem Nausikaaner-Handlungsstrang die Figuren korrekt und passend zusammen agieren läßt, er lenkt mit kleinen Umwegen ab, bringt aber alle zum Schluss wieder zusammen. Einen besonderen Trick schaffte Mack durch die Ich-Perspektive der zwei Protagonisten Captain Okona und dem nausikaanischen Anführer Kinogar. Den Gedanken der beiden zu folgen und die Taten auf der anderen Seite zu beobachten, sind genau das, was die Geschichte um die Nausikaaner auch so besonders macht. Als gefürchtete Söldner bekannt, haben sie doch mehr Herz, als es bisher bekannt war. Okona hingegen erweist sich als der Hallodri, den man bereits aus der TV-Serie kennt. Immer ein Spruch auf den Lippen, schönen Frauen nicht abgeneigt und trotzdem so trickreich unterwegs, dass er jede Situation meistern kann. Zudem noch witzig, was angesichts der grundlegenden Geschichte auch mal etwas Entspannung bringt.
Im Endeffekt, schafft Mack ein Abschluss, der laufenden Post Nemesis Handlung, ich fürchte sogar, dass dies in Deutschland das Ende von Star Trek in der literarischen Form darstellt, da CrossCult bisher in seiner Verlagsvorschau kein Star Trek mehr anbietet, allerdings ist mir noch nicht bekannt, dass sie es endgültig aufgegeben haben, Star Trek zu verlegen... ICH HOFFE NICHT !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2023
I read a spoiler and with 20% or so left in the book I decided to not finish it because that spoiler just soured me about the ending. Also, the MASSIVE Brooklyn 99 references were annoying me so much. Not one, not two, but FOUR WHOLE CHARACTERS NAMED AFTER THE MAIN B99 CHARACTERS. Really took me out of it. However I did enjoy it overall, even if it was trope heavy and kinda predictable.
August 31, 2020
COLLATERAL DAMAGE is probably the final Star Trek: The Next Generation book set in the novelverse continuity. With the arrival of PICARD, much of the storyline has been overwritten with Captain Picard no longer married to Beverly Crusher as well as not having a son. He also obviously didn't resign from the Enterprise to help with Romulan refugees. Much of the story deals with the fallout from the fall of Section 31 and the role Picard played in forcing a Federation President to resign. The rest of the book contains characters like the Outrageous Okuno and Naomi Wildman (all grown-up) as they attempt to help with a bunch of Naussican terrorists. Worf gets to command the Enterprise and shows himself to be up to the job. It's a fairly decent end to the saga and I'm glad they wrapped up all their plot points.
October 24, 2019
No Tea, Earl Grey, Hot: Captain Picard Effs Up
http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
The United Federation of Planet’s military jurisprudence offers justice, or does it?
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader’s copy of this book. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions presented herein are my own except as noted.
How can it be that Captain Picard is fallible – he’s Capt.-Always-Do-the-Right-Thing?! And thus, this story made me feel I had missed something. He and Doctor Crusher are married?! They have a baby?! And, either Picard is a bad egg or The Federation or Star Fleet is wrought with corruption. I guess I missed some stuff. The Star Trek Universe is pretty big so, keeping up with all the series would be, at least, a part-time job.
So, at first I thought this story was based in to another issue in THE NEXT GENERATION where there were some kind of symbiotic creatures taking over the top brass, but now I don’t believe the incident here is the same one. But, some thing has resulted in a delayed reaction requiring an inquiry implicating Captain Picard either as a poor officer, or even as a criminal.
All of it leads to a trial which rehashes Picard’s involvement as a Captain, via intel and orders from his superiors, in the removal of and, via suggestion, the assassination of a President of the Federation.
It’s hard not to relate this entire scenario to contemporary political situations where there has been a suggestion of action OR “just following orders,” or any other current scandal about misuse of authority. But, I kept getting stuck on the undisputed idea that Capt. Picard is not the assassin but is being treated as if he were, or as if it were his involvement that caused the situation The legal issues coming up against political and PR issues is
I find it sad that after another few hundred years after first contact with humanity, even the most evolved creatures in the Federation are still asshats in regards to politics, and that even the best of officers is perceived wrongly. Additionally, a defendant’s noble nature is totally used against them is another strike against the future of the Federation. The legal issues coming up against political and PR issues was, at least to a person growing up with the ideal of the United Federation of Planets the concept of corruption in the wondrous future is disappointing.
That Petkoff’s voice is not Patrick Stewart’s unmistable voice, and since that is a character which voice I would know anytime or anywhere, was bit of a full stop for me. The uncertainty imbued in Picard’s character was also troubling; Picard always exuded confidence.
I feel as I would have some catching-up to do to make sense of this part of the Star Trek books , but the others are engaging enough to give me the option of saving this series until later.
http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
The United Federation of Planet’s military jurisprudence offers justice, or does it?
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader’s copy of this book. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions presented herein are my own except as noted.
How can it be that Captain Picard is fallible – he’s Capt.-Always-Do-the-Right-Thing?! And thus, this story made me feel I had missed something. He and Doctor Crusher are married?! They have a baby?! And, either Picard is a bad egg or The Federation or Star Fleet is wrought with corruption. I guess I missed some stuff. The Star Trek Universe is pretty big so, keeping up with all the series would be, at least, a part-time job.
So, at first I thought this story was based in to another issue in THE NEXT GENERATION where there were some kind of symbiotic creatures taking over the top brass, but now I don’t believe the incident here is the same one. But, some thing has resulted in a delayed reaction requiring an inquiry implicating Captain Picard either as a poor officer, or even as a criminal.
All of it leads to a trial which rehashes Picard’s involvement as a Captain, via intel and orders from his superiors, in the removal of and, via suggestion, the assassination of a President of the Federation.
It’s hard not to relate this entire scenario to contemporary political situations where there has been a suggestion of action OR “just following orders,” or any other current scandal about misuse of authority. But, I kept getting stuck on the undisputed idea that Capt. Picard is not the assassin but is being treated as if he were, or as if it were his involvement that caused the situation The legal issues coming up against political and PR issues is
I find it sad that after another few hundred years after first contact with humanity, even the most evolved creatures in the Federation are still asshats in regards to politics, and that even the best of officers is perceived wrongly. Additionally, a defendant’s noble nature is totally used against them is another strike against the future of the Federation. The legal issues coming up against political and PR issues was, at least to a person growing up with the ideal of the United Federation of Planets the concept of corruption in the wondrous future is disappointing.
That Petkoff’s voice is not Patrick Stewart’s unmistable voice, and since that is a character which voice I would know anytime or anywhere, was bit of a full stop for me. The uncertainty imbued in Picard’s character was also troubling; Picard always exuded confidence.
I feel as I would have some catching-up to do to make sense of this part of the Star Trek books , but the others are engaging enough to give me the option of saving this series until later.
October 9, 2019
Another great Star Trek adventure from David Mack! Mack's prose is engaging as ever and the culmination of several narrative threads from the last decade and a half of Trek Literature is something no true Trek reader will want to miss.
One thing regarding the continuity - it might be a bit overwhelming for new readers to step into TrekLit with this novel. While on a factual level, everything the reader *needs* in order to understand the plot/story is explained, it is *preferable* to have at least a passing knowledge with these previous works by David Mack: A Time to Kill / Heal duology, Section 31 duology (Disavowed / Control), Titan: Fortune of War. Also, the previous TNG novel, Dayton Ward's Available Light, pretty much sets up the Picard-based portions of the book.
While there are "shout outs" to other Trek works, the above-mentioned are ones I would recommend having greater familiarity with, at the very least for the emotional / dramatic impact.
All in all, as a Trek reader and a David Mack fan, I recommend this wholeheartedly.
One thing regarding the continuity - it might be a bit overwhelming for new readers to step into TrekLit with this novel. While on a factual level, everything the reader *needs* in order to understand the plot/story is explained, it is *preferable* to have at least a passing knowledge with these previous works by David Mack: A Time to Kill / Heal duology, Section 31 duology (Disavowed / Control), Titan: Fortune of War. Also, the previous TNG novel, Dayton Ward's Available Light, pretty much sets up the Picard-based portions of the book.
While there are "shout outs" to other Trek works, the above-mentioned are ones I would recommend having greater familiarity with, at the very least for the emotional / dramatic impact.
All in all, as a Trek reader and a David Mack fan, I recommend this wholeheartedly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2019
Picard on Trial!
Captain Picard stands accused of sedition and conspiracy to commit murder! The shadows of Texas - from the A Time To series event that has been established as one of the pivotal events in the Star Trek Extended Universe - come to haunt Captain Picard as the collapse of Section 31 has brought some of the Federations darkest secrets to the light. With old allies re-emerging and new enemies rising, this book will be a new pivot point in the series, laying the foundations for 2020's Picard series.
Captain Picard stands accused of sedition and conspiracy to commit murder! The shadows of Texas - from the A Time To series event that has been established as one of the pivotal events in the Star Trek Extended Universe - come to haunt Captain Picard as the collapse of Section 31 has brought some of the Federations darkest secrets to the light. With old allies re-emerging and new enemies rising, this book will be a new pivot point in the series, laying the foundations for 2020's Picard series.
January 7, 2020
Looking beyond (no pun intended) the predictable conflict resolution you can gain a sense of Star Treks insight into how humanity should exist..... replacing alternative space races with various human races in modern time allows the reader to focus on the social issues associated with world conflict resolution between people of different backgrounds and cultures. There is the underlining theory throughout the story that a morally correct end may not always be obtained through ideal circumstances but sometimes it is necessary to learn lessons via turmoil and suspect actions which can strengthen humanity as a whole.....in other words some lessons will remain unlearned or not fully comprehended unless the participants experience the reason certain choices were made in the first place. This book does this through a series of parallel storylines which critics listed as a negative of this book but should be seen as a benefit because it allows the reader to evenly compare different avenues of moral conflict across time. Overall a very solid book and very fluid and well-written.
March 23, 2021
Star Trek Bücher fesseln mich einfach immer wieder. Auch "Kollateralschaden" war wieder sehr spannend und leicht zu lesen. Die Story ist etwas zweigeteilt, der Part mit dem Prozess gegen Picard war irgendwie von der Relevanz nicht so gut eingebunden, am Ende hat es sich auch sehr leicht aufgelöst, während es am Anfang noch groß aufgebauscht wurde. Trotzdem habe ich mich gefreut Picard, Beverly und die anderen alten Enterprise Mitglieder wiederzutreffen.
October 9, 2019
A preliminary enquiry into Captain Picard's involvement in the Section 31 assassination of UFP President Mon Zife sees him having to defend himself against an angry Attorney General, Phillipa Louvois, who previously presided over his court martial for losing the 'U.S.S. Stargazer'.
In temporary command of the 'Enterprise', Worf finds himself facing off against Nausicaan Raiders who hold the Federation responsible for the loss of their homeworld during the Borg invasion.
Mack holds readers' attention by switching narrative techniques to follow various characters. The novel ties in well with the overall 'Star Trek' story and encourages us to face up to the aftermath of war.
In temporary command of the 'Enterprise', Worf finds himself facing off against Nausicaan Raiders who hold the Federation responsible for the loss of their homeworld during the Borg invasion.
Mack holds readers' attention by switching narrative techniques to follow various characters. The novel ties in well with the overall 'Star Trek' story and encourages us to face up to the aftermath of war.
December 30, 2019
I understand that the powers of Star Trek want to move in a specific direction, but I don't like the direction. This book is a step in the direction ultimately leading to the new Picard series. Familiar and new characters are both here and the writing is solid. The story is good but no suprises and pacing is moderate. The book is worth reading if you are keeping up with Star Trek in general, but don't look for Next Generation type stories here. That has been abandoned in general in the change of canon tone for Star Trek books. I keep looking for the Gene Roddenberry ST universe, but have been disappointed for some time. Can't fault the writers for direction and the writing is good.
February 15, 2023
I really enjoyed both the threads of Picard's trial and Worf's time commanding the Enterprise dealing with some very serious stuff. The only minor detail that bothered me was some background characters with some very familiar pop culture names that took me out of the immersion for a few serious scenes.
October 20, 2019
An excellent read from start to finish. So much TNG nostalgia packed in along with bits from the previous TNG extended universe stories of the past 15 years. Fulfilling to see a conclusion and now onto the next adventure.
October 22, 2019
Nice coda to the whole Section 31 episodes. Plus there's action, adventure, humor and more!
October 18, 2019
Excellent.
December 5, 2019
**As per all of my reviews, I like to preface by saying that I listened to this book in audiobook format. This does indeed slightly skew my rating. I have found that audiobooks, give me a better "relationship" with the characters if done well, but also kills the book for me if narrated poorly. Also due to the nature of listening to the text, names and places may be spelled incorrectly here as I often do not have the physical volume in front of me.
Also, I have written this review in a "rolling updates" style. In that I basically chronicle my reading as I progress. This may make for a jarring and spoilery review so be warned.**
So we're continuing on with this really interesting main core story in this ping pong story between the two authors David Mack and Dayton Ward. Both authors have entries into this story line that has pretty much started years and years ago with the book "Control". What I really like and hate at the same time is that the books have the story of Picard's decision and implications play out through years of books. This is something that is both quite a great way to keep the story drawn out, and keeping me interested and really wanting more... but then of course each book feels like it has to somehow jam in a second 'normal Trek" story line. This leads to some very boring, cliche stories that are packed into the novels that distsract from the main event. Since the novel Available Light, Picard is finally called out, and can no longer be shielded from the public eye. Section 31's existance and actions have come to public light, and because of the death of the former President and other actions, the criminal system must act.
We get some great scenes of Picard spending time with his wife Beverly Crusher as they make the trip back to Earth. There's the return of our characters that have now fleshed out the Enterprise, and I'm genuinely happy to see them still all here. The Enterprise deposits Picard to Starfleet headquarters and he even visits his old pal Riker. The description of Chateua Picard really makes me look foward to the Picard series.
This being said, my prior complaint about the "B plot" forcing itself into the story is present here as well. And this one seems to be pretty heavy handed, involving a band of Nausiccan pirates... They have a grudge against Starfleet ( everyone does...) for not coming to their aid when the Borg glassed their planet. Blaming StarFleet for the awakening of the Borg and then turning tail once they discovered how much of a threat they were.
Now with this story comes a very ...odd choice to switch the writing to First Person. And then...there's a new character also in the First Person tossed in. A quintessential smart ass, who literally talks his way into getting his ass kicked.
So back to the positives here. The court marshal stuff is really fascinating. I think David Mack may have now set the defacto standard for reference for Starfleet court room procedings. In the beginning, all of the magistrates and officials must declare everything on the record, that they have no ties to Jean-luc, and that they must state that they are fit to pursue this investigation... Really crunchy, stuff that I was hoping he wouldn't shy away from.
Picard right off the bat ignores literally the first piece of advice his lawyer gives him. He takes to the stand to willingly be examined. This is so Picard..showing that he's too proud, and honor bound to
Alright, so about halfway through, and a lot of my complaints are being quickly swept away. The plot with Thadiun Okona as a Section 31 op, or at the very least Starfleet Intelligence and being suberted by the Enterprise crew is pretty cool. I admittedly had no clue who Okona was and I had to retroactively look up his history, and to me it seems having him be S.I is a completely new idea and I like it. I really credit the authors who can take small, random characters and later give them someting more. The same was sort of done with NextGen's Doctor Pulaski. While she wasn't a random, small character, we didn't get a lot of her in Next Gen, so having one of the other books "Enigma Tales" feature her as well was neat. giving her a bit more depth.
The book has gone one and deeper into the trial, and i'm surprised in a good way about how far it's dived into the legal battle. Surely something I figured Mack would give us the 64,000 foot view of, but no, we're getting like the day by day proceedings which is great. The back and forth seems very natural. And it's moments like this that prove how much thought went into this story. I say that because from a writing perspective, for a court battle, legal prosecution has to be very thorough. It has to nit pick and be precise and have all the details lined up. Likewise the defense has to have logical arguments and all bases covered. If I...a random guy, can think of a 'plot hole' or argument that isn't brought up, then that's a problem with the writing. But no, in this proceeding, any attack that the prosectuion makes, I can fully see. Likewise any counter point that I thought of was indeed atleast touched on by Picards defense.
Inbetween the Court Marshal scenes, we get the story with Agent Thadiun Okona. Worf and Lt. Smernova seem to be the standout characters here that are trying to track him down. Pretty much he's been tasked in wiping out a contingent of Nausicans that are trying to get revenge of the Federation. (A rather familiar and repetitive narrative in Star Trek). So Okona, an S.I agent is trying to stop them...by killing them all. He's technically just following orders...and the outcome is to save possible billions of lives. Of course Worf feels this is a dishonourable method and they go to stop Okona from carrying out his orders.
The book is wrapping up, and it's been quite a ride. After all this build up, years of writing to make this all climax...I will say that the general decision to let Picard off with a slap on the wrist..perhaps is a tad of a let down? I don't want to phrase it like that, because it implies I would have wanted to see Picard have the book thrown at him. But I feel the conclusion was a it speedy. At the end we just got a tidy summary of "Well..after one night of thinking, that's it, he's cleared." It was so sudden it didn't really lend itself to the fact that we've been building up to this for years now. Of course besides that point, the decision itself, and the surrounding stories were all very facsinating. The Nausican appeasement by Worf was great. And speaking of which, Worf really stepped into his own. He's been in command before, and this shows his prowess not only in combat situations, but also and more importantly, in situations that require a lot of tact and diplomacy. The Nausicans who felt so slighted, and disrespected by Starfleet, Worf played into this and came up with the idea of giving the Nausicans what they actually valued the most...remnants of their culture. I'm not sure how, perhaps I missed it, but the Federation, through data spheres, etc, have a large amount of Naussican history and stored on their files. Overall this book was 100% a win. It started off a bit shaky in that I was taken off guard by the shifting perspective. Switching from the first and 3rd narrative.. So as I enjoyed this book alot it's structure is pretty much identical to the other Trek books in this series. And that's not an insult, but it's just something that I wish they didn't feel like they *had* to do...just having the book focus on the trial of Picard would have been really great, but it seems like it's required to get a Trek book published for it to have an alien war/alien discovery subplot. I know this is sort of baked into the DNA of Trek, but it's not a requirement for every single book. especially a book that's tackling such a major, pivotal plot such as Picard perhaps being sent to prison. Both narratives were interesting, I can't lie and say that I didn't enjoy any of the alien stuff, and having Okona as a S.I op was really fun, but it seems like the two stories could have stood apart.
Also, I have written this review in a "rolling updates" style. In that I basically chronicle my reading as I progress. This may make for a jarring and spoilery review so be warned.**
So we're continuing on with this really interesting main core story in this ping pong story between the two authors David Mack and Dayton Ward. Both authors have entries into this story line that has pretty much started years and years ago with the book "Control". What I really like and hate at the same time is that the books have the story of Picard's decision and implications play out through years of books. This is something that is both quite a great way to keep the story drawn out, and keeping me interested and really wanting more... but then of course each book feels like it has to somehow jam in a second 'normal Trek" story line. This leads to some very boring, cliche stories that are packed into the novels that distsract from the main event. Since the novel Available Light, Picard is finally called out, and can no longer be shielded from the public eye. Section 31's existance and actions have come to public light, and because of the death of the former President and other actions, the criminal system must act.
We get some great scenes of Picard spending time with his wife Beverly Crusher as they make the trip back to Earth. There's the return of our characters that have now fleshed out the Enterprise, and I'm genuinely happy to see them still all here. The Enterprise deposits Picard to Starfleet headquarters and he even visits his old pal Riker. The description of Chateua Picard really makes me look foward to the Picard series.
This being said, my prior complaint about the "B plot" forcing itself into the story is present here as well. And this one seems to be pretty heavy handed, involving a band of Nausiccan pirates... They have a grudge against Starfleet ( everyone does...) for not coming to their aid when the Borg glassed their planet. Blaming StarFleet for the awakening of the Borg and then turning tail once they discovered how much of a threat they were.
Now with this story comes a very ...odd choice to switch the writing to First Person. And then...there's a new character also in the First Person tossed in. A quintessential smart ass, who literally talks his way into getting his ass kicked.
So back to the positives here. The court marshal stuff is really fascinating. I think David Mack may have now set the defacto standard for reference for Starfleet court room procedings. In the beginning, all of the magistrates and officials must declare everything on the record, that they have no ties to Jean-luc, and that they must state that they are fit to pursue this investigation... Really crunchy, stuff that I was hoping he wouldn't shy away from.
Picard right off the bat ignores literally the first piece of advice his lawyer gives him. He takes to the stand to willingly be examined. This is so Picard..showing that he's too proud, and honor bound to
Alright, so about halfway through, and a lot of my complaints are being quickly swept away. The plot with Thadiun Okona as a Section 31 op, or at the very least Starfleet Intelligence and being suberted by the Enterprise crew is pretty cool. I admittedly had no clue who Okona was and I had to retroactively look up his history, and to me it seems having him be S.I is a completely new idea and I like it. I really credit the authors who can take small, random characters and later give them someting more. The same was sort of done with NextGen's Doctor Pulaski. While she wasn't a random, small character, we didn't get a lot of her in Next Gen, so having one of the other books "Enigma Tales" feature her as well was neat. giving her a bit more depth.
The book has gone one and deeper into the trial, and i'm surprised in a good way about how far it's dived into the legal battle. Surely something I figured Mack would give us the 64,000 foot view of, but no, we're getting like the day by day proceedings which is great. The back and forth seems very natural. And it's moments like this that prove how much thought went into this story. I say that because from a writing perspective, for a court battle, legal prosecution has to be very thorough. It has to nit pick and be precise and have all the details lined up. Likewise the defense has to have logical arguments and all bases covered. If I...a random guy, can think of a 'plot hole' or argument that isn't brought up, then that's a problem with the writing. But no, in this proceeding, any attack that the prosectuion makes, I can fully see. Likewise any counter point that I thought of was indeed atleast touched on by Picards defense.
Inbetween the Court Marshal scenes, we get the story with Agent Thadiun Okona. Worf and Lt. Smernova seem to be the standout characters here that are trying to track him down. Pretty much he's been tasked in wiping out a contingent of Nausicans that are trying to get revenge of the Federation. (A rather familiar and repetitive narrative in Star Trek). So Okona, an S.I agent is trying to stop them...by killing them all. He's technically just following orders...and the outcome is to save possible billions of lives. Of course Worf feels this is a dishonourable method and they go to stop Okona from carrying out his orders.
The book is wrapping up, and it's been quite a ride. After all this build up, years of writing to make this all climax...I will say that the general decision to let Picard off with a slap on the wrist..perhaps is a tad of a let down? I don't want to phrase it like that, because it implies I would have wanted to see Picard have the book thrown at him. But I feel the conclusion was a it speedy. At the end we just got a tidy summary of "Well..after one night of thinking, that's it, he's cleared." It was so sudden it didn't really lend itself to the fact that we've been building up to this for years now. Of course besides that point, the decision itself, and the surrounding stories were all very facsinating. The Nausican appeasement by Worf was great. And speaking of which, Worf really stepped into his own. He's been in command before, and this shows his prowess not only in combat situations, but also and more importantly, in situations that require a lot of tact and diplomacy. The Nausicans who felt so slighted, and disrespected by Starfleet, Worf played into this and came up with the idea of giving the Nausicans what they actually valued the most...remnants of their culture. I'm not sure how, perhaps I missed it, but the Federation, through data spheres, etc, have a large amount of Naussican history and stored on their files. Overall this book was 100% a win. It started off a bit shaky in that I was taken off guard by the shifting perspective. Switching from the first and 3rd narrative.. So as I enjoyed this book alot it's structure is pretty much identical to the other Trek books in this series. And that's not an insult, but it's just something that I wish they didn't feel like they *had* to do...just having the book focus on the trial of Picard would have been really great, but it seems like it's required to get a Trek book published for it to have an alien war/alien discovery subplot. I know this is sort of baked into the DNA of Trek, but it's not a requirement for every single book. especially a book that's tackling such a major, pivotal plot such as Picard perhaps being sent to prison. Both narratives were interesting, I can't lie and say that I didn't enjoy any of the alien stuff, and having Okona as a S.I op was really fun, but it seems like the two stories could have stood apart.
July 1, 2020
I like Star Trek, but honestly, I prefer to watch it rather than read it. This just was not fun for me.
April 22, 2020
An impressive wrap-up to a number of dangling threads from the Trek litverse, but with still more room to move the story forward from here. Some great moral lessons for the Federation at large, and repercussions for Jean-Luc Picard as well. I loved this novel, and I'm eager to discover where things go from here! David Mack has once again knocked it out of the park.
Full review (video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kDql...
Full review (video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kDql...
October 13, 2019
As always pure pop corn reading following the crew of TNG past the series. Held my attention and served me Picardy and Worf goodness. All you really ask for out of this series.
November 26, 2019
The most anticipated "Star Trek: The Next Generation" novel of 2019 is a surprising miss by David Mack due to reasons that are a bit complex. "Collateral Damage" is the culmination of the Section 31 story line & tries at best to resolve it with a twofold plot that at times gets in the way of itself. Plot #1 involves the planet Nausicca which was destroyed in the Borg invasion & they as a race feel forgotten about by the Federation who did nothing to help them rebuild. A group of them who are trying to rebuild their dead world end up stealing a weapon once possessed by the now extinct Husnock (TNG's "Survivors"). The primary person responsible for parts of that recovery action is Thadiun Okana (TNG's "The Outrageous Okana") with the help at Starfleet Intelligence of Sam Lavelle & Naomi Wildman. One part of this operation does go awry which causes the severe damage to a Starfleet research outpost which puts Worf & the crew of the Enterprise at points of being very thin & does show off his diplomatic skills. The piece of this story at times is a bit jumbled, but does decent from an action standpoint as well as keeping we the reader genuinely caring about these characters & the fates of these worlds.
The 2nd plot is the important one with Picard returning to Earth to face an inquiry board about his involvement in the removal of President Zife. This part of the book at times probably should've been given more of a focus in my opinion as this trial brings in Federation Attorney General Phillipa Louvois (TNG's "The Measure of a Man") to try to convince things to go to a formal court martial to put Picard in jail. These scenes while at times being a bit mundane are very important & powerful as the case is made against what he did. I like the use of the Picard birthplace again in LaBarre, France & the brief usage of his sister-in-law Marie. The end result of this is a nail-biter which will keep readers guessing until the very end. Granted, Mack's ending will cause an eventual canon problem with "Star Trek: Picard", but that can also be explained away at some point as well.
Overall, while Mack's story is a good read, it almost feels like it tries to do too much especially with the use of characters that we've not seen in forever. There's a brief Titan reference which is nice albeit that ship we've not seen in a while either. I wish at times the story would've focused more on the trial of Picard & not so much the plight of the Nausiccan race which might've made for a compelling book in & of itself. As a fan, I'm happy the plot has been resolved & am now beyond curious to see just where the books in the post-Nemesis era go although we the reader are going to have to wait until 2021 to find out since there are no books in TNG, DS9 or Titan scheduled for publication in 2020. I'll just be curious to see just where that next jump is to.
The 2nd plot is the important one with Picard returning to Earth to face an inquiry board about his involvement in the removal of President Zife. This part of the book at times probably should've been given more of a focus in my opinion as this trial brings in Federation Attorney General Phillipa Louvois (TNG's "The Measure of a Man") to try to convince things to go to a formal court martial to put Picard in jail. These scenes while at times being a bit mundane are very important & powerful as the case is made against what he did. I like the use of the Picard birthplace again in LaBarre, France & the brief usage of his sister-in-law Marie. The end result of this is a nail-biter which will keep readers guessing until the very end. Granted, Mack's ending will cause an eventual canon problem with "Star Trek: Picard", but that can also be explained away at some point as well.
Overall, while Mack's story is a good read, it almost feels like it tries to do too much especially with the use of characters that we've not seen in forever. There's a brief Titan reference which is nice albeit that ship we've not seen in a while either. I wish at times the story would've focused more on the trial of Picard & not so much the plight of the Nausiccan race which might've made for a compelling book in & of itself. As a fan, I'm happy the plot has been resolved & am now beyond curious to see just where the books in the post-Nemesis era go although we the reader are going to have to wait until 2021 to find out since there are no books in TNG, DS9 or Titan scheduled for publication in 2020. I'll just be curious to see just where that next jump is to.
June 13, 2022
Years ago, the decisions of Federation leadership and Starfleet command placed Captain Picard and the Enterprise between a moral Scylla and Charybdis, and his dogged efforts to keep the peace were covered in the A Time To… series. Now, after a succession of crises — the Borg war, ongoing tensions with the Typhon Pact, and the revelation of Section 31 — the dust is settling and the past must be reckoned with. Captain Picard is summoned to Paris to attend a hearing which may result in his being court-martialed. Meanwhile, the Enterprise responds to a Nausican raid on a Federation outpost that proves to be far more dangerous than anyone reckoned with, after it’s revealed that the Nausicans also stole a superweapon from a Starfleet Intelligence operation. As Commander LaForge works to keep the outpost aftermath from growing worse, Commander Worf and the Enterprise tackle the Nausicans. The result is a superb mix of legal, military, and engineering drama, as the Enterprise crew and Titan scramble to head off disaster. I’d expect nothing less from David Mack.
I missed the prolonged ‘Tezwa Crisis’, in part because I was a penniless high school grad when it started, and by the time I had money there were a lot more interesting ST series out there to consider — chief among them, David Mack’s Destiny trilogy. In the near-twenty years since that series began, Picard and others have referenced the Crisis enough that I’ve grown some appreciation for how big a deal it was, despite not knowing its specific details beyond its resulting in the Federation president disappearing courtesy of Section 31. A prior read of that series isn’t necessary to enjoy Collateral Damge, as the details of the crisis come out during the trial. The trial is well done, though I find it difficult to believe anyone in the Federation could be as hostile to Picard as the opposing lawyer: however true her professed belief that everyone should be held to the same legal standard, even Heroes of the Federation, her antagonism appeared more personal than professional. Far more interesting were the conjoined B&C plots, Starfleet’s response to the Nausican raid and the resulting plot. The Nausican homeworld was destroyed by the Borg during the Destiny trilogy, and the Alpha Quadrant’s favorite chaotic bikers blame the Federation for the destruction of their world. Hunting them down and putting an end to their Marvin the Martin-esque plan isn’t straightforward, though, because Starfleet Intelligence has an outrageous agent working his own op, and SI’s interests aren’t aligned with Enterprise’s. The Big E is crippled twice in this book, and all while Picard is being grilled by a vicious lawyer. Worf’s resolution was a little unexpected, but absolutely in keeping with Star Trek idealism.
Collateral Damage is (yet another) great work in David Mack’s continuing contributions to Treklit.
I missed the prolonged ‘Tezwa Crisis’, in part because I was a penniless high school grad when it started, and by the time I had money there were a lot more interesting ST series out there to consider — chief among them, David Mack’s Destiny trilogy. In the near-twenty years since that series began, Picard and others have referenced the Crisis enough that I’ve grown some appreciation for how big a deal it was, despite not knowing its specific details beyond its resulting in the Federation president disappearing courtesy of Section 31. A prior read of that series isn’t necessary to enjoy Collateral Damge, as the details of the crisis come out during the trial. The trial is well done, though I find it difficult to believe anyone in the Federation could be as hostile to Picard as the opposing lawyer: however true her professed belief that everyone should be held to the same legal standard, even Heroes of the Federation, her antagonism appeared more personal than professional. Far more interesting were the conjoined B&C plots, Starfleet’s response to the Nausican raid and the resulting plot. The Nausican homeworld was destroyed by the Borg during the Destiny trilogy, and the Alpha Quadrant’s favorite chaotic bikers blame the Federation for the destruction of their world. Hunting them down and putting an end to their Marvin the Martin-esque plan isn’t straightforward, though, because Starfleet Intelligence has an outrageous agent working his own op, and SI’s interests aren’t aligned with Enterprise’s. The Big E is crippled twice in this book, and all while Picard is being grilled by a vicious lawyer. Worf’s resolution was a little unexpected, but absolutely in keeping with Star Trek idealism.
Collateral Damage is (yet another) great work in David Mack’s continuing contributions to Treklit.
October 16, 2019
Collateral Damage is a book that almost feels like a buttoning up of the Post Nemesis series fo novels that moved the Star Trek Next Generation story forward, but will soon be wiped away by the new “Picard” series. As such, it’s odd to read, knowing that this will all be relegated to either non-canon or an alternate timeline.
The book has two main plots, a possible court martial of Picard due to his actions in previous books, and a group of pirates who have stolen life-saving equipment from a planet in retaliation for a Borg attack, also in previous novels. There is a lot to like about this book. Worf being in charge of the Enterprise, a nice science based problem with added action elements in the main plot is a great read, and lifted this novel above the average Trek novel in many ways.
The downsides are the trail of Picard, which has the flaw of making the case against him in court too dire, and then pulls a Perry Mason style rabbit out of a hat the resolve the issue. This was incredibly unsatisfying and felt like a cheat after the number of pages spent showing how Picard’s decisions in the past had caught up with him. This was a fascinating look at the legal, moral, and ethical considerations of choices made in previous novels that comes to a crashing thud with a recording completely exoneration Picard of all charges at the last minute.
There was also a choice by the author to write sections from the perspective of two characters, a Han Solo type Starfleet Intelligence office that is written in first person, and the leader of the pirates. While I understand the storytelling reason behind it, the choice was jarring, and, in my opinion, did not work stylistically. I can appreciate that the author was trying something new, and playing with perspective, and it may be an interesting choice fro0m some readers, but as I read it, it just came across as too jarring when the rest of the novel is written in tradition third personal narrative. It may have worked if the novel was all in that format, with different characters narrating the sections they are the lead in, but the mix didn’t work, especially when the sections didn’t designate who was speaking, so it took a bit to switch mentally and figure out which of the two First Person narratives were being told.
Despite these flaws, I enjoyed the novel, and Mack has a wonderful handle on the world of Star Trek making for a thoughtful and exciting read..
The book has two main plots, a possible court martial of Picard due to his actions in previous books, and a group of pirates who have stolen life-saving equipment from a planet in retaliation for a Borg attack, also in previous novels. There is a lot to like about this book. Worf being in charge of the Enterprise, a nice science based problem with added action elements in the main plot is a great read, and lifted this novel above the average Trek novel in many ways.
The downsides are the trail of Picard, which has the flaw of making the case against him in court too dire, and then pulls a Perry Mason style rabbit out of a hat the resolve the issue. This was incredibly unsatisfying and felt like a cheat after the number of pages spent showing how Picard’s decisions in the past had caught up with him. This was a fascinating look at the legal, moral, and ethical considerations of choices made in previous novels that comes to a crashing thud with a recording completely exoneration Picard of all charges at the last minute.
There was also a choice by the author to write sections from the perspective of two characters, a Han Solo type Starfleet Intelligence office that is written in first person, and the leader of the pirates. While I understand the storytelling reason behind it, the choice was jarring, and, in my opinion, did not work stylistically. I can appreciate that the author was trying something new, and playing with perspective, and it may be an interesting choice fro0m some readers, but as I read it, it just came across as too jarring when the rest of the novel is written in tradition third personal narrative. It may have worked if the novel was all in that format, with different characters narrating the sections they are the lead in, but the mix didn’t work, especially when the sections didn’t designate who was speaking, so it took a bit to switch mentally and figure out which of the two First Person narratives were being told.
Despite these flaws, I enjoyed the novel, and Mack has a wonderful handle on the world of Star Trek making for a thoughtful and exciting read..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2020
Collateral Damage carries straight on after the previous book with Picard confronting the decisions that he had to make during the Tezwa incident which has come to light following the collapse of Section 31! :D The proceeding are edge of the seat with Picard facing harsh penalties such as treason and conspiracy if it all comes to pass! :D At the same time the Prosecutor is none other than Phillipa Louvois, who prosecuted Picard for the Stargazer loss, and has a serious axe pointed at Picards head! :D
The other major plot running throughout the book is that of of Starfleet Operation with the chief agent being Thadium Okona who turns out has been recruited by Starfleet Intelligence 20 years previously and is engaged in operations for the agency. Okona activities for SI form part of the running gag as Sam Lavelle and Naomi Wildman pull his strings with Admiral Batanides who herself runs into Admiral Akaar who is on the Crusher Picard defence team ! :D Along with Lieutenant Aneta Smrhova as they investigate with the Enterprise with Worf in command a group of Nausicaans who appear to be raiding throughout the region! :D
The plotlines are gripping from the start and every character get to shine! :D Picards proceeding and his defence lawyer, Johnathan Ezor, and along with Beverly Crusher really bring the defence case up making for tense scenes but great scenes! :D The same holds true with the Nausicaan plot as well which is full of tension and action! :D The use of different perspectives keep things mixed up and provides differing viewpoints as well! :D Other characters are given their due at the same time as well such as Geordi, Lt Chen all get the limelight and the reasons for the Nausicaans anger and actions if neatly handled handled! :D
Collateral Damage is a crazy brilliant ride from the beginning! :D Full of tense proceeding, white knuckle battle, grand standing, character evolution, world building action and adventure! Brilliant and Highly Recommended! D Crisp High Five! :D Get it when you can! :D
The other major plot running throughout the book is that of of Starfleet Operation with the chief agent being Thadium Okona who turns out has been recruited by Starfleet Intelligence 20 years previously and is engaged in operations for the agency. Okona activities for SI form part of the running gag as Sam Lavelle and Naomi Wildman pull his strings with Admiral Batanides who herself runs into Admiral Akaar who is on the Crusher Picard defence team ! :D Along with Lieutenant Aneta Smrhova as they investigate with the Enterprise with Worf in command a group of Nausicaans who appear to be raiding throughout the region! :D
The plotlines are gripping from the start and every character get to shine! :D Picards proceeding and his defence lawyer, Johnathan Ezor, and along with Beverly Crusher really bring the defence case up making for tense scenes but great scenes! :D The same holds true with the Nausicaan plot as well which is full of tension and action! :D The use of different perspectives keep things mixed up and provides differing viewpoints as well! :D Other characters are given their due at the same time as well such as Geordi, Lt Chen all get the limelight and the reasons for the Nausicaans anger and actions if neatly handled handled! :D
Collateral Damage is a crazy brilliant ride from the beginning! :D Full of tense proceeding, white knuckle battle, grand standing, character evolution, world building action and adventure! Brilliant and Highly Recommended! D Crisp High Five! :D Get it when you can! :D
February 10, 2020
An enjoyable read, but the story was not what I was expecting. I haven't read any of the previous novels involving Section 31 in this series, as--truth be told--it's one of my least favorite Trek elements, but I've enjoyed several of Mack's previous Trek novels so I was willing to give this a go.
Picard is under investigation in a not-a-trial for assisting Section 31 in the murder of the Federation president. I expected this to be the main thrust of the book and it was not. Instead this story is cut between two other threads: the Enterprise, under the command of Worf and Number One Geordi La Forge, helping a base that's been blasted by Nausicaans who have a super weapon that can destroy the Earth, and the pirate group of aliens wrecking havoc while being pursued by the Outrageous Okona, who has developed considerably since his first appearance on The Next Generation.
I wasn't thrilled with the Picard portions of the novel because Trek fans know he has to get out of trouble, the key being how, but it's a last minute save that didn't seem credible. Also not credible was who was prosecuting Picard at his not-a-trial, which went against where this character was left when she was last seen on television.
Poor Geordi's scenes didn't do much for me either, as it was the expected Trek technobable that left me uncaring for what was to occur with him and those he was helping.
Worf, the Nausicaans, and Okona (including his surprise distant helper) were outstanding. Aneta was a brilliantly written character and I would love to read more of her.
A mixed bag, to be sure, but I did enjoy reading it, though it won't rate as one of my favorite Trek novels. Plus, this entire saga is voided by the newly airing Picard series. If you like Trek, you could do worse.
Picard is under investigation in a not-a-trial for assisting Section 31 in the murder of the Federation president. I expected this to be the main thrust of the book and it was not. Instead this story is cut between two other threads: the Enterprise, under the command of Worf and Number One Geordi La Forge, helping a base that's been blasted by Nausicaans who have a super weapon that can destroy the Earth, and the pirate group of aliens wrecking havoc while being pursued by the Outrageous Okona, who has developed considerably since his first appearance on The Next Generation.
I wasn't thrilled with the Picard portions of the novel because Trek fans know he has to get out of trouble, the key being how, but it's a last minute save that didn't seem credible. Also not credible was who was prosecuting Picard at his not-a-trial, which went against where this character was left when she was last seen on television.
Poor Geordi's scenes didn't do much for me either, as it was the expected Trek technobable that left me uncaring for what was to occur with him and those he was helping.
Worf, the Nausicaans, and Okona (including his surprise distant helper) were outstanding. Aneta was a brilliantly written character and I would love to read more of her.
A mixed bag, to be sure, but I did enjoy reading it, though it won't rate as one of my favorite Trek novels. Plus, this entire saga is voided by the newly airing Picard series. If you like Trek, you could do worse.
June 6, 2021
For more of my adult life than I care to admit, the Star Trek novels have been their own little continuity, progressing the stories of the TNG-era series in their own happy little way, confident that they wouldn't have to worry about the canon material contradicting anything. Then Picard was announced. This novel is basically the beginning of the end of that period, which means stuff needs to be wrapped up and characters need to be left in a position approximating where the new show might pick up. That means this novel is largely concerned with fallout from events of previous novels, some stretching as far back as 2004. So we get a story that's one part legal drama, as Picard faces the music for his involvement in a political coup that didn't end well, and one part political thriller, as Worf and the Enterprise deal with some rampaging Nausicaans who are justifiably angry about their world being destroyed as a side effect of Starfleet pissing off the Borg all those times. A character from the TNG show appears, and isn't any more likeable than he was there, but he does fit the story, so I guess that's all right. Of the two narratives, I found the legal drama more interesting, but the political thriller does have a clever, and very Trek, ending that makes very good use of Worf's unique perspective. Speaking of perspective, the narration jumps between first and third person depending on who's the focus of the scene, a dodgy trick at any time that manages not to be too obtrusive here. There are a couple of things in the wind-down, after all the shooting's over, that I found rather silly, but they didn't detract from what came before. Overall, and forgive the cliche, but if you like this sort of thing, then this is the sort of thing you will like.
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