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Star Trek: The Next Generation
Rogue: Section 31 Book 2
NO LAW. NO CONSCIENCE. NO STOPPING THEM.
They are the self-appointed protectors of the Federation. Amoral, shrouded in secrecy, answerable to no one, Section 31 is the mysterious covert operations division of Starfleet, a rogue shadow group committed to safeguarding the Federation at any cost. Six months before their ultimate battle against the Borg for the fate of Earth, Captain Jean-Luc Piccard and the crew of the USS Enterprise™ face a very different kind of crisis. A world in turmoil becomes the focal point of conspiracies and betrayal as an unexpected reunion brings with it startling revelations. Old friends become bitter enemies and one young officer reaches a crossroad when he's forced to choose between the greater good of the Federation and the ideals for which it stands.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2001
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About the author
Andy Mangels
152 books43 followersAndy Mangels is an American science fiction author who has written novels, comics, and magazine articles, and produced DVD collections, mostly focusing on media in popular culture. As an openly-gay man, he has been a longtime advocate for greater visibility of gay and lesbian characters in various media, especially comics, including the coordination and moderation of the annual "Gays in Comics" panel for Comic Con International since it was begun in 1988. He is the founder of an annual "Women of Wonder Day" event, which raises funds for domestic violence shelters and related programs. As of 2011 he has had books on the USA Today "best-selling books" list three times. wikipedia
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July 23, 2021I started reading one of the Voyager Relaunch books and was confused by *spoilery thing* that had apparently happened since the previous relaunch book, so I went looking and found out that there was a multi-series trilogy dealing with *spoilery thing*. But many people suggested that I should read this other book first, or this other book, etc etc.
And now I have 20 YEARS of Star Trek books to catch up on!
Anyway, this was the first TNG book I’ve read and I quite enjoyed it. I’m not a huge Section 31 fan, but that part of the storyline didn’t really detract from the TNG-ness. Plus, a gay POV character in Star Trek… in 2001!?! I would guess this was a first.
And now I have 20 YEARS of Star Trek books to catch up on!
Anyway, this was the first TNG book I’ve read and I quite enjoyed it. I’m not a huge Section 31 fan, but that part of the storyline didn’t really detract from the TNG-ness. Plus, a gay POV character in Star Trek… in 2001!?! I would guess this was a first.
January 4, 2010
The Federation has a dark side it is called Section 31. There is a secret in the charter a secret organization outside the rule of law. This “agency” is first brought to light in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and then referred to by Star Trek: Enterprise. The novel Rogue by Andy Mangels and Michael A. Martin allows the world of The Next Generation to butt heads against it. Set in a flashback before the borg invasion but after the destruction of the Enterprise-D when the Enterprise-E is set to help find out what happened to the Slayton in a seemingly innocuous part of space.
A planet is trying to choose between the Federation and the Romulans, but only the Romulans seem to have all the facts. Section 31 steps in to give the planet to the Romulans in exchange for a list of agents inside the Federation. This planet though is a quagmire that nearly pulls the Enterprise down.
The interesting twist is the use of Picard’s past. In this story his old academy friends are involved. One on the planet fighting for what he thinks is best, and another, an Admiral, who has lost her love and must deal with the ignorance she finds in herself (not a good place for an intelligence officer). These friends must deal with the time that has past since they took on the Nausicans.
As for the other characters Data has an interesting encounter with an Romulan Artificial Intelligence that tries to take over his body. Riker and Troi both get kidnapped. The interesting small character that gets a larger role for the book is LT Hawk, who is the 3rd party in the “release the deflector dish” in First Contact. He is revealed to be gay, which shouldn’t matter, but when romance is involved in the Trek universe one takes notice. He is also recruited by Section 31 and must choose between right and wrong. He of course choses right; this is Star Trek after all.
A planet is trying to choose between the Federation and the Romulans, but only the Romulans seem to have all the facts. Section 31 steps in to give the planet to the Romulans in exchange for a list of agents inside the Federation. This planet though is a quagmire that nearly pulls the Enterprise down.
The interesting twist is the use of Picard’s past. In this story his old academy friends are involved. One on the planet fighting for what he thinks is best, and another, an Admiral, who has lost her love and must deal with the ignorance she finds in herself (not a good place for an intelligence officer). These friends must deal with the time that has past since they took on the Nausicans.
As for the other characters Data has an interesting encounter with an Romulan Artificial Intelligence that tries to take over his body. Riker and Troi both get kidnapped. The interesting small character that gets a larger role for the book is LT Hawk, who is the 3rd party in the “release the deflector dish” in First Contact. He is revealed to be gay, which shouldn’t matter, but when romance is involved in the Trek universe one takes notice. He is also recruited by Section 31 and must choose between right and wrong. He of course choses right; this is Star Trek after all.
May 7, 2020
My biggest gripe is section 31s role in the novel is almost more of a "feature" . It should be called "Rogue - Featuring appearances from Section 31!" While Zwellers role in the story is fairly important. Tabor is tossed aside early and Zweller just becomes a thorn in Picards side as the mission progresses. As a Next Gen Trek Novel it's great though hence the 3 stars. It's just not really all that focused on Section 31. Here they appear almost pathetic with how wrong off they were about Chiaros.
January 19, 2018
I was looking forward to this one, expecting a tale of intrigue and spy games. That doesn't happen at all, unfortunately. 'Rogue' is a plodding book in which it feels like barely anything happens. Bizarrely told mostly in flashback, it tells the story of the Enterprise-E crew as they petition a strategically valuable planet for Federation membership alongside the Romulans wanting the same for their own Empire.
It doesn't get much more exciting than that, right? In the background, a couple of agents for the mysterious Section 31 are attempting to sabotage the talks for their own gain, and there's a rebellion going on down on the planet and etc, etc.
What the book does do well is portray the characters. The trusty Next Generation crew all feel right and it's easy to imagine the dialogue coming out of the actor's mouths. Additionally, it does a pretty good job with the character of Lt. Hawk (who appears in the film Star Trek: First Contact) and fill out his back story. We also get reunited with Picard's old academy friends, Marta and Corey (from the TNG episode 'Tapestry') and I did enjoy most of the stuff with them - although I was expecting Picard to recall the events of that episode and what Q put him through, but it never comes up, which seemed very strange.
Overall, a bit of a grind to get through and when the action does finally happen I just wasn't that interested in it. The framing chapters, especially the one at the end, are quite nice, though.
It doesn't get much more exciting than that, right? In the background, a couple of agents for the mysterious Section 31 are attempting to sabotage the talks for their own gain, and there's a rebellion going on down on the planet and etc, etc.
What the book does do well is portray the characters. The trusty Next Generation crew all feel right and it's easy to imagine the dialogue coming out of the actor's mouths. Additionally, it does a pretty good job with the character of Lt. Hawk (who appears in the film Star Trek: First Contact) and fill out his back story. We also get reunited with Picard's old academy friends, Marta and Corey (from the TNG episode 'Tapestry') and I did enjoy most of the stuff with them - although I was expecting Picard to recall the events of that episode and what Q put him through, but it never comes up, which seemed very strange.
Overall, a bit of a grind to get through and when the action does finally happen I just wasn't that interested in it. The framing chapters, especially the one at the end, are quite nice, though.
April 28, 2015
Rouge was a good book that I felt suffered from being something that Star Trek is not good at. Morally ambiguous.
The story revolves around the Geminus Gulf, an expanse of nearly 60 light years across. This area is almost devoid of anything noteworthy, a virtual desert in space on the edges of the United Federation of Planets and the Romulan Empire. The only oasis, the planet Chiaros IV.
Treaties between the two great powers have declared that neither side may claim this area until invited to do so by the native Chiarosians. A planet-wide referendum draws near where the populace will decide which of the two powers to join. And now, a Federation starship on a diplomatic mission to Chiaros IV has gone missing.
Captain Jean-Luc Picard, along with his crew must find out what's become of the missing ship, uncover the mystery of this seemingly empty space and evaluate these new potential allies on the eve of their admittance into the Federation.
Where I feel Andy Mangels and Michael A. Martin did well, was first the inclusion and characterization of Picard's Academy friends, seen on screen in the Star Trek: TNG episode "Tapestry". I had no problem visualizing the considered Marta and impulsive Corey in this novel. The other thing I felt they did well involved the reveal of the novel, where the thing our antagonists are after fits in line with previously established technology and interest.
Unfortunatley, where I feel the novel did not do well was the espionage. I come to this novel as someone that enjoys a good Tom Clancy novel, a good episode of Burn Notice, or even a James Bond movie. The spycraft in this novel doesn't even fit in the realm of possibility. A few minutes of personnel file review and one of our characters, working for Section 31, is willing to reveal, that not only does he work for them, that they're supposedly ultra-secret, but also divulges names and mission objectives of another operative without any reason for doing so other than to recruit.
Oh, and immediatley following, before even getting an agreement from the new recruit, says: "the very safety of the Federation depends upon Section 31's coninued secrecy." I know you don't want this to turn into 500 pages about how best to recruit an agent, but even a second meeting before you drop the big bombshells would have been nice, it felt very rushed.
The political intrigue and justification for Section 31's actions was handled reasonably. They ultimatley feel giving up what seems a large short-term political concession will give them both a shot term counter-intelligence win and also a longer term political win. But the moral ambiguity, the "ends justifying the means" is done so half-heartedly and given by a character that even self identifies as someone who couldn't get opportunities or promotions until he joined Section 31.
This is usually the sort of thing you'd see from someone that is only able to earn these things with an outside forces' help, because he doesn't really deserve them. This is never revealed to be false understatement to be underestimated, the reader is left without someone who can really champion
Finally the last thing that made the book ring false, was the danger of leaving the reveal in the hands of the antagonists. I'm fine with danger, I'm fine with, big danger. But when the danger might "blow this [universe] to quarks..." that's when you've lost me. If something is that powerful you shouldn't be able to affect it significantly anyway, that's just thermodynamics.
All that said, still a worthwhile read. Perhaps not something I will come back to quickly, but I did enjoy especially Picard's reaction to the revelation of Section 31. A man with utter conviction standing against an organization that would throw out everything in the name of security.
The story revolves around the Geminus Gulf, an expanse of nearly 60 light years across. This area is almost devoid of anything noteworthy, a virtual desert in space on the edges of the United Federation of Planets and the Romulan Empire. The only oasis, the planet Chiaros IV.
Treaties between the two great powers have declared that neither side may claim this area until invited to do so by the native Chiarosians. A planet-wide referendum draws near where the populace will decide which of the two powers to join. And now, a Federation starship on a diplomatic mission to Chiaros IV has gone missing.
Captain Jean-Luc Picard, along with his crew must find out what's become of the missing ship, uncover the mystery of this seemingly empty space and evaluate these new potential allies on the eve of their admittance into the Federation.
Where I feel Andy Mangels and Michael A. Martin did well, was first the inclusion and characterization of Picard's Academy friends, seen on screen in the Star Trek: TNG episode "Tapestry". I had no problem visualizing the considered Marta and impulsive Corey in this novel. The other thing I felt they did well involved the reveal of the novel, where the thing our antagonists are after fits in line with previously established technology and interest.
Unfortunatley, where I feel the novel did not do well was the espionage. I come to this novel as someone that enjoys a good Tom Clancy novel, a good episode of Burn Notice, or even a James Bond movie. The spycraft in this novel doesn't even fit in the realm of possibility. A few minutes of personnel file review and one of our characters, working for Section 31, is willing to reveal, that not only does he work for them, that they're supposedly ultra-secret, but also divulges names and mission objectives of another operative without any reason for doing so other than to recruit.
Oh, and immediatley following, before even getting an agreement from the new recruit, says: "the very safety of the Federation depends upon Section 31's coninued secrecy." I know you don't want this to turn into 500 pages about how best to recruit an agent, but even a second meeting before you drop the big bombshells would have been nice, it felt very rushed.
The political intrigue and justification for Section 31's actions was handled reasonably. They ultimatley feel giving up what seems a large short-term political concession will give them both a shot term counter-intelligence win and also a longer term political win. But the moral ambiguity, the "ends justifying the means" is done so half-heartedly and given by a character that even self identifies as someone who couldn't get opportunities or promotions until he joined Section 31.
This is usually the sort of thing you'd see from someone that is only able to earn these things with an outside forces' help, because he doesn't really deserve them. This is never revealed to be false understatement to be underestimated, the reader is left without someone who can really champion
Finally the last thing that made the book ring false, was the danger of leaving the reveal in the hands of the antagonists. I'm fine with danger, I'm fine with, big danger. But when the danger might "blow this [universe] to quarks..." that's when you've lost me. If something is that powerful you shouldn't be able to affect it significantly anyway, that's just thermodynamics.
All that said, still a worthwhile read. Perhaps not something I will come back to quickly, but I did enjoy especially Picard's reaction to the revelation of Section 31. A man with utter conviction standing against an organization that would throw out everything in the name of security.
May 1, 2020
I found out about this book in the trivia section of IMDB, it intrigued me that the character of Sean Hawk was to be explored further in this novel and that he was gay. As a gay man myself I thought it would be great to see some representation in one of my favourite franchises, I’ve even bought the entire “Section 31” series to read in order, because I wanted to be sure I didn’t miss anything.
However I was slightly disappointed that Sean’s character, although a bit more prominent than even Riker, Troi, Crusher and LaForge (Don’t expect to see much of them in this one), still wasn’t explored as much as I’d wished, which given the soppy epilogue didn’t really make sense. I would actually have stopped at chapter 18 myself.
I think the series really missed an opportunity here to show the futures tolerance and I don’t mean sex scenes or constant snogging, but perhaps a few more pages on the holodeck or the Enterprise E’s equivalent of Ten Forward where the relationship could be shown in a bit more detail. Others may disagree, but I like to feel represented in order to feel accepted and not just tolerated.
The story in general is very good, but as with the previous “TOS” book, I felt that the Section 31 element wasn’t really necessary to the plot, they even explain that Picard comes up against these sorts of conspiracies all the time without the need of a special branch of Starfleet to assist. (Again I might have had Hawk as the Zweller character who has a moment of enlightenment before he is asked to join Picard’s crew after renouncing the bureau and where his other half already works on the Enterprise.) I want to read a really dangerous Section 31 story, that’s all about their interference and the costs and lengths they go to, really showing them as the bad guys, I was almost on Zweller’s side in this, which I don’t think is the aim of the bureaus use.
Having said all of that, as I say, the story is actually very enjoyable. I have always preferred it when they focus on Picard leading the way and not Riker and so it was nice to have him fully in danger and risking all sorts for what is right. The writers make it very easy to recognise the characters and their surroundings, even if they kept performing the “Picard Manoeuvre” in uniforms that don’t have that fitting issue. It’s like reading any episode of the series and easy to visualise.
*** You may wish to refresh your memories in advance of reading this book by watching Star Trek: First Contact (Film 8) and Star Trek: The Next Generation, Series 6, Episode 15 - Tapestry as the characters and events of these are prominent in this story.
However I was slightly disappointed that Sean’s character, although a bit more prominent than even Riker, Troi, Crusher and LaForge (Don’t expect to see much of them in this one), still wasn’t explored as much as I’d wished, which given the soppy epilogue didn’t really make sense. I would actually have stopped at chapter 18 myself.
I think the series really missed an opportunity here to show the futures tolerance and I don’t mean sex scenes or constant snogging, but perhaps a few more pages on the holodeck or the Enterprise E’s equivalent of Ten Forward where the relationship could be shown in a bit more detail. Others may disagree, but I like to feel represented in order to feel accepted and not just tolerated.
The story in general is very good, but as with the previous “TOS” book, I felt that the Section 31 element wasn’t really necessary to the plot, they even explain that Picard comes up against these sorts of conspiracies all the time without the need of a special branch of Starfleet to assist. (Again I might have had Hawk as the Zweller character who has a moment of enlightenment before he is asked to join Picard’s crew after renouncing the bureau and where his other half already works on the Enterprise.) I want to read a really dangerous Section 31 story, that’s all about their interference and the costs and lengths they go to, really showing them as the bad guys, I was almost on Zweller’s side in this, which I don’t think is the aim of the bureaus use.
Having said all of that, as I say, the story is actually very enjoyable. I have always preferred it when they focus on Picard leading the way and not Riker and so it was nice to have him fully in danger and risking all sorts for what is right. The writers make it very easy to recognise the characters and their surroundings, even if they kept performing the “Picard Manoeuvre” in uniforms that don’t have that fitting issue. It’s like reading any episode of the series and easy to visualise.
*** You may wish to refresh your memories in advance of reading this book by watching Star Trek: First Contact (Film 8) and Star Trek: The Next Generation, Series 6, Episode 15 - Tapestry as the characters and events of these are prominent in this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2022
Summer 2022 Reading Entry #10. "Section 31: Rogue" ("Star Trek: The Next Generation: Section 31: Rogue") by Andy Mangels and Michael A. Martin (2001).
One can ignore the "Book 2" in the title as given on GoodReads. "Rogue" is one of four "Section 31" themed books released in 2001 (not one long continuing story but instead four separate stories all dealing with the shadowy covert Section 31 black ops agency operating unknown to most people within Starfleet itself, as revealed on the "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" television series). "Rogue" and "Star Trek: Voyager: Section 31: Shadow" by Dean Wesley Smith and Kristine Kathryn Rusch both came out first (on the same release date, May 22, 2001) . They were followed on July 1, 20001, with "Star Trek [The Original Series]: Section 31: Cloak" by S.D. Perry and "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: Section 31: Abyss" by David Weddle and Jeffrey Lang.
The main story here (aside from a framing story at the beginning and end of the novel that takes place after the events of the "Star Trek: First Contact" film) also takes place between (but unrelated to) books four and five of the "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Slings and Arrows" ebooks series (2007-2008), which is why I'm reading it at this time (having just finished book four of "Slings and Arrows").
All of preamble finished, I have to say that I enjoyed "Rogue" quite a bit. After reading four shorter novellas ("Slings and Arrows" books one through four), it was nice to be back into a full length Star Trek: TNG novel (one released six years prior to "Slings and Arrows"). As I mentioned, it opens after "First Contact", with Picard reflecting on the officers lost during their battle with the Borg. One of these officers (as seen in the film) is Lt. Sean Hawk, who is also one of the characters featured quite a bit in "Slings and Arrows". (There is also a Lt. Daniels in "Rogue" that is also in both "First Contact" as well as in "Slings and Arrows", the latter of which is where his full name is given as Pádraig Bréanainn Daniels.)
Reflecting on Hawk's death causes him to remember the ship's mission to Chiaros IV, a barely habitable planet in the Geminus Gulf (a three sector wide part of space considered by all to be otherwise completely empty and without any real strategic value except that it is near both Federation and Romulan space). The native species on Chiaros IV is about to vote whether or not to pursue membership in the Federation or to spurn it in favor of siding with the Romulans. The official government is siding with Federation membership while a group of rebels hiding out on the permanent "night side" of the planet staging attacks on the sitting government is anti-Federation and is working with the Romulans.
Early in the book, another Starfleet vessel, the U.S.S. Slayton, arrives at Chiaros IV and sends a group of officers down to meet with the ruling government. Immediately after they have left the ship, the Slayton leaves to investigate a spatial disturbances nearby in the Geminus Gulf and is destroyed. The Enterprise-E is then assigned to follow up on the Slayton's original mission (as well as try to determine what became of the Slayton).
Included on the mission are Admiral Marta Batanides. She and one of the Slayton officers (one of those that went down to the planet only to be captured by the anti-government rebels), Cortin Zweller, are old friends of Captian Picard's from their Starfleet Academy days (both having been introduced in the "Star Trek: The Next Generation" episode, "Tapestry"). Batanides and her fiancé, Federation ambassador Aubin Tabor, are aboard to lead the diplomatic mission to Chiaros IV.
Just prior to a delegation going down to the surface to meet with the ruling government officials, Aubin approachs Lt. Hawk aboard the Enterprise, revealing himself to be a member of a highly secret intelligence agency named Section 31 and inviting Hawk to join them as their agent aboard the Enterprise. Hawk is convinced by Aubin enough to at least consider it and to keep Aubin's secret.
However, things quickly take a turn when rebels attack at the time that the Enterprise's delegation is meeting with the pro Federation government, resulting in the capture of Commander Will Riker and Counselor Deanna Troi and the death of Aubin.
This is as deep as I think I'll go in regards to my plot summary as I don't want to give too much of the book away. Suffice it to say that Picard and his crew must A) find a way to rescue Riker, Troi, and the captured U.S.S. Slayton's captured group of officers, B) determine what happened to the Slayton (and the mystery of the repeating spatial anomalies in the Geminus Gulf), and C) do what they can to sway public opinion on Chiaros IV to vote in favor of seeking membership in the Federation rather than siding with the Romulans (which would give the Romulans control of the entire Geminus Gulf region).
There is a *lot* going on in this book, perhaps a bit too much at times. And it probably would have helped if I'd seen "Tapestry" recently as I really didn't remember much about Batanides and Zweller, who are both major characters in this along with Picard (and Hawk, Riker, and Troi). Add in the Section 31 angle and what is hidden in the Geminus Gulf and I did occasionally find myself jumping around a bit too much, I felt. Still, overall, I enjoyed "Rogue" and gave it four out of five stars on GoodReads.
Next up: "Slings and Arrows Book 5: A Weary Life" by Robert Greenberger and Slings and Arrows Book 6: Enterprises of Great Pitch and Moment" by Keith R.A. DeCandido (both 2008).
(Previous Summer 2022 Reading Entries: #1: "Star Trek: Avenger" by William Shatner (1997; novel); #2: "Batman vs. Ra's Al Ghul" by Neal Adams (2019-2021, six-issue comic book limited-series; 2021 collected hardcover edition); #3: “Superman: Birthright” by Mark Waid, Leinil Francis Wu, and Gerry Alanguilan (twelve-issue comic book limited series; 2003 to 2004; read on DC Universe Infinite, also available in hardcover and softcover editions); #4: "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Slings and Arrows Book 1: A Sea of Troubles" by J. Steven York and Christina F. York (2007; novella); #5: "The Orville Season 1.5: New Beginnings" by David A. Goodman and David Cabeza (2019, four issue comic book limited series; 2020 collected trade paperback edition); #6: "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Slings and Arrows, Book 2: The Oppressor's Wrong" by Phaedra Weldon); #7: "Superman: Secret Origin" by Geoff Johns, Gary Frank, and Jon Sibal (2009-2010, six-issue comic book limited series; 2019 "Deluxe Edition" collected hardcover edition); #8: "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Slings and Arrows, Book 3: The Insolence of Office" by William Leisner (2007); #9: "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Slings and Arrows, Book 4: That Sleep of Death" by Terri Osborne (2008).
One can ignore the "Book 2" in the title as given on GoodReads. "Rogue" is one of four "Section 31" themed books released in 2001 (not one long continuing story but instead four separate stories all dealing with the shadowy covert Section 31 black ops agency operating unknown to most people within Starfleet itself, as revealed on the "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" television series). "Rogue" and "Star Trek: Voyager: Section 31: Shadow" by Dean Wesley Smith and Kristine Kathryn Rusch both came out first (on the same release date, May 22, 2001) . They were followed on July 1, 20001, with "Star Trek [The Original Series]: Section 31: Cloak" by S.D. Perry and "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: Section 31: Abyss" by David Weddle and Jeffrey Lang.
The main story here (aside from a framing story at the beginning and end of the novel that takes place after the events of the "Star Trek: First Contact" film) also takes place between (but unrelated to) books four and five of the "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Slings and Arrows" ebooks series (2007-2008), which is why I'm reading it at this time (having just finished book four of "Slings and Arrows").
All of preamble finished, I have to say that I enjoyed "Rogue" quite a bit. After reading four shorter novellas ("Slings and Arrows" books one through four), it was nice to be back into a full length Star Trek: TNG novel (one released six years prior to "Slings and Arrows"). As I mentioned, it opens after "First Contact", with Picard reflecting on the officers lost during their battle with the Borg. One of these officers (as seen in the film) is Lt. Sean Hawk, who is also one of the characters featured quite a bit in "Slings and Arrows". (There is also a Lt. Daniels in "Rogue" that is also in both "First Contact" as well as in "Slings and Arrows", the latter of which is where his full name is given as Pádraig Bréanainn Daniels.)
Reflecting on Hawk's death causes him to remember the ship's mission to Chiaros IV, a barely habitable planet in the Geminus Gulf (a three sector wide part of space considered by all to be otherwise completely empty and without any real strategic value except that it is near both Federation and Romulan space). The native species on Chiaros IV is about to vote whether or not to pursue membership in the Federation or to spurn it in favor of siding with the Romulans. The official government is siding with Federation membership while a group of rebels hiding out on the permanent "night side" of the planet staging attacks on the sitting government is anti-Federation and is working with the Romulans.
Early in the book, another Starfleet vessel, the U.S.S. Slayton, arrives at Chiaros IV and sends a group of officers down to meet with the ruling government. Immediately after they have left the ship, the Slayton leaves to investigate a spatial disturbances nearby in the Geminus Gulf and is destroyed. The Enterprise-E is then assigned to follow up on the Slayton's original mission (as well as try to determine what became of the Slayton).
Included on the mission are Admiral Marta Batanides. She and one of the Slayton officers (one of those that went down to the planet only to be captured by the anti-government rebels), Cortin Zweller, are old friends of Captian Picard's from their Starfleet Academy days (both having been introduced in the "Star Trek: The Next Generation" episode, "Tapestry"). Batanides and her fiancé, Federation ambassador Aubin Tabor, are aboard to lead the diplomatic mission to Chiaros IV.
Just prior to a delegation going down to the surface to meet with the ruling government officials, Aubin approachs Lt. Hawk aboard the Enterprise, revealing himself to be a member of a highly secret intelligence agency named Section 31 and inviting Hawk to join them as their agent aboard the Enterprise. Hawk is convinced by Aubin enough to at least consider it and to keep Aubin's secret.
However, things quickly take a turn when rebels attack at the time that the Enterprise's delegation is meeting with the pro Federation government, resulting in the capture of Commander Will Riker and Counselor Deanna Troi and the death of Aubin.
This is as deep as I think I'll go in regards to my plot summary as I don't want to give too much of the book away. Suffice it to say that Picard and his crew must A) find a way to rescue Riker, Troi, and the captured U.S.S. Slayton's captured group of officers, B) determine what happened to the Slayton (and the mystery of the repeating spatial anomalies in the Geminus Gulf), and C) do what they can to sway public opinion on Chiaros IV to vote in favor of seeking membership in the Federation rather than siding with the Romulans (which would give the Romulans control of the entire Geminus Gulf region).
There is a *lot* going on in this book, perhaps a bit too much at times. And it probably would have helped if I'd seen "Tapestry" recently as I really didn't remember much about Batanides and Zweller, who are both major characters in this along with Picard (and Hawk, Riker, and Troi). Add in the Section 31 angle and what is hidden in the Geminus Gulf and I did occasionally find myself jumping around a bit too much, I felt. Still, overall, I enjoyed "Rogue" and gave it four out of five stars on GoodReads.
Next up: "Slings and Arrows Book 5: A Weary Life" by Robert Greenberger and Slings and Arrows Book 6: Enterprises of Great Pitch and Moment" by Keith R.A. DeCandido (both 2008).
(Previous Summer 2022 Reading Entries: #1: "Star Trek: Avenger" by William Shatner (1997; novel); #2: "Batman vs. Ra's Al Ghul" by Neal Adams (2019-2021, six-issue comic book limited-series; 2021 collected hardcover edition); #3: “Superman: Birthright” by Mark Waid, Leinil Francis Wu, and Gerry Alanguilan (twelve-issue comic book limited series; 2003 to 2004; read on DC Universe Infinite, also available in hardcover and softcover editions); #4: "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Slings and Arrows Book 1: A Sea of Troubles" by J. Steven York and Christina F. York (2007; novella); #5: "The Orville Season 1.5: New Beginnings" by David A. Goodman and David Cabeza (2019, four issue comic book limited series; 2020 collected trade paperback edition); #6: "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Slings and Arrows, Book 2: The Oppressor's Wrong" by Phaedra Weldon); #7: "Superman: Secret Origin" by Geoff Johns, Gary Frank, and Jon Sibal (2009-2010, six-issue comic book limited series; 2019 "Deluxe Edition" collected hardcover edition); #8: "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Slings and Arrows, Book 3: The Insolence of Office" by William Leisner (2007); #9: "Star Trek: The Next Generation: Slings and Arrows, Book 4: That Sleep of Death" by Terri Osborne (2008).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2015
While the twists and turns are great, at the end of the day, it's cliched.
This is how it always goes:
Senior secret agent finds a nice, impressionable junior officer for a mission. It's a recruitment drive and /or dangerous mission. The junior officer is all fired up.
The mission turns out south as expected but the recruit saves the day and yet sees just how amoral the senior spy and his agency are when they don't care who got hurt.
So they go Archer/Kirk/Sisko/Picard/ their original boss or mentor and spell the beans. "A rogue org within Starfleet/parent organization recruited me, i worked with them, but now i want out."
CO/boss/main character- 'blah blah, high morals, blah blah blah... you did the right thing coming to me and walking away from them. From now on, you let me handle them."
Just for once, i'd like to see another character who got recruited and stayed with them.
This is how it always goes:
Senior secret agent finds a nice, impressionable junior officer for a mission. It's a recruitment drive and /or dangerous mission. The junior officer is all fired up.
The mission turns out south as expected but the recruit saves the day and yet sees just how amoral the senior spy and his agency are when they don't care who got hurt.
So they go Archer/Kirk/Sisko/Picard/ their original boss or mentor and spell the beans. "A rogue org within Starfleet/parent organization recruited me, i worked with them, but now i want out."
CO/boss/main character- 'blah blah, high morals, blah blah blah... you did the right thing coming to me and walking away from them. From now on, you let me handle them."
Just for once, i'd like to see another character who got recruited and stayed with them.
July 28, 2020
While I really enjoyed the first book in the Section 31 series, this book was a bit of a dud. As much as I love the TNG crew, I sludged thru this book. To be honest, I can’t really say I remember much of what happened. I did go back and rewatched a couple of episodes of TNG to make sure I had all the groundwork. I just couldn’t really get into the story. It all just felt a little forced. It’s so sad, but I don’t think I could give any details from the story. I know there were Romulans and I learned a little more about Lt. Hawk before First Contact ... but other than that, not much else. I remember kinda enjoying it while I read, but nothing stuck with me.
May 6, 2013
While the plot was nothing earth-shattering (the Federation and the Romulans vie for an alliance with a world of apparently little strategic importance... (or is it?) by taking opposite sides in that planet's revolution.
However, we get another look at Section 31, a super-secret Intelligence group that works within Starfleet but outside Starfleet's rules and regulations. I also enjoyed Data's internal battle with a Romulan AI, and some excellent character development with Lt. Sean Hawk (of Star Trek: First Contact).
However, we get another look at Section 31, a super-secret Intelligence group that works within Starfleet but outside Starfleet's rules and regulations. I also enjoyed Data's internal battle with a Romulan AI, and some excellent character development with Lt. Sean Hawk (of Star Trek: First Contact).
September 25, 2016
Accidental discovery with finding this book
One night I was searching for Wikipedia entries for obscure Star Trek characters. I saw that this book referenced Lt Hawk and I was intrigued.
I have to say that I really enjoyed the story overall. I also really enjoyed the realistic and balanced way a Star Trek novel handled a gay officer. It was very tastefully done and was appropriate within the confines of the main story. It's very difficult to find healthy examples of LGBT characters in main stream books especially in the science fiction genre. My compliments to the author.
One night I was searching for Wikipedia entries for obscure Star Trek characters. I saw that this book referenced Lt Hawk and I was intrigued.
I have to say that I really enjoyed the story overall. I also really enjoyed the realistic and balanced way a Star Trek novel handled a gay officer. It was very tastefully done and was appropriate within the confines of the main story. It's very difficult to find healthy examples of LGBT characters in main stream books especially in the science fiction genre. My compliments to the author.
March 20, 2012
This was the first Star Trek book to have a homosexual character. I have no problem with that. But I was highly disappointed that the plot was very similar to the TOS Section 31 novel, Section 31: Cloak. Because of that, I can't give this book a good rating.
So, if you loved this book, you will probably enjoy Cloak.
So, if you loved this book, you will probably enjoy Cloak.
June 19, 2014
This book tied together some episodes of Deep Space Nine, a bunch of published Star Trek books, some plot points from First Contact as well as at least five other Next Generation episodes. I found it enjoyable enough, but I think I would have preferred slightly more insight into what the enemies were doing. There were some rather abrupt character developments that I would have preferred to have been telegraphed or given some warning.
August 7, 2012
It started out slow, but got very interesting in time. I love Keru and Hawk, so any book with them in it pulls at my heart strings. Near the end of the book, I realized Hawk was a Mary-Sue character. I think the action made up for it, though. Not the best Star Trek book I've ever read, but I would still recommend it.
October 19, 2015
I was an ok book. Full of espionage . Section 31 up to no good planting agents in key areas. The biggest surprise was making HAWK a homosexual when in the movie there is no indication.
June 9, 2025
good ass read. can be a one off. some duplicitious romulan shit going down. section 31 is awesome. more books about it. this is not thefirst time ive read this and it wont be the last.
April 10, 2018
Rogue kick off after Picard and his band of time correcting crew get back from Earth following the events of First Contact! :D We then get to see some of the aftermath of this mission and what it has cost the Federation! :D This then is followed by Picard and co recalling the events of six months previously where they had to deal with a the planet Chiaros IV in the Geminus Gulf! :D However the Chiarosians are not as united as would first seem! :D Plus thrown into the mix the Romulan want a bite of the pie but have clearly got another agenda going as well! :D
Throughout all this though Section 31 is getting it's sticky fingers over everything as Picard's old Classmate Cortin who is up to his neck with them! :D At the same time having Picards other old friend Marta putting in her appearance is brilliant bringing back these character really aids the plot as Picard has such a past with them that every meeting with them is on edge because of it particularly as the reader you are getting much of the story than the characters! :D The addition of Ambassador Tabor as Marta's other half and also Section 31 agent really puts the Federation into one twisted situation to another as they try to break through the secrets and lies that everyone from the Chiarosians, Tal Shiar and Section 31 etc seem intent on putting them through! :D This is brilliantly handled though with all the cast having to battle through the politics and actual battles in order to make the right choices which throughout are never entirely clear! :D This ambiguity is cleverly handled with the crew having to tread a fine path between the law and what is actually right! :D Their off the record will have you ribs hurting! :D The book throughout does have humour as well which perfectly fits the characters Riker and Troi comes though for example brilliantly when interviewing Grelun who incidentally admires Picards drink of choice! :D
The crew comes off brilliantly with the characterisation spot on! :D Data battling the Romulan AI for example is so Data as well as his fear of losing his emotion chip really works brilliantly! :D Picards reaction to Section 31 and how is friend Cortin Zweller could have got involved with them is brilliantly handled! :D Picard and Batanides reaction is brilliant! :D Their reactions to his getting away with also plays brilliantly especially as this is obviously setting things up for the future! :D At the same time the Tal Shiar being headed by Koval are as sinister as you would expect and are also trying to use Section 31 which really rams home the epic level the book works on! :D
Rogue has mysteries all over the place from the Romulan presence to the accusations of War Crimes against the Chiarosian ruler Ruardh that will keep you up late wanting to see what happens! :D It initially seems that the events are happening independently of each other but as the plot progresses it becomes obvious to the crew and the reader that these are only parts of a bigger picture! :D So you along with the Federation will find yourself trying to work it out and the conspiracy that surrounds all this is neatly handled! :D
The book features appearances by a number of other character seen in other books, episodes, movies etc from Picards old friends who first appeared in Tapestry, to Pardek from Unification etc and this put the books storyline into the greater universe perfectly! :D At the same time Section 31's oily fingers all over the page! :D Rogue develops them further but as the same time if it is possible makes them even more insidious! :D
Rogue is a brilliantly portrayed with action, mystery, cunning, double dealing and action in spades and will keep you guessing throughout full of world building and adventure! :D Rogue sets things up neatly for the next book and it is hand to have that one handy Abyss handy! Brilliant go and get! :D
Throughout all this though Section 31 is getting it's sticky fingers over everything as Picard's old Classmate Cortin who is up to his neck with them! :D At the same time having Picards other old friend Marta putting in her appearance is brilliant bringing back these character really aids the plot as Picard has such a past with them that every meeting with them is on edge because of it particularly as the reader you are getting much of the story than the characters! :D The addition of Ambassador Tabor as Marta's other half and also Section 31 agent really puts the Federation into one twisted situation to another as they try to break through the secrets and lies that everyone from the Chiarosians, Tal Shiar and Section 31 etc seem intent on putting them through! :D This is brilliantly handled though with all the cast having to battle through the politics and actual battles in order to make the right choices which throughout are never entirely clear! :D This ambiguity is cleverly handled with the crew having to tread a fine path between the law and what is actually right! :D Their off the record will have you ribs hurting! :D The book throughout does have humour as well which perfectly fits the characters Riker and Troi comes though for example brilliantly when interviewing Grelun who incidentally admires Picards drink of choice! :D
The crew comes off brilliantly with the characterisation spot on! :D Data battling the Romulan AI for example is so Data as well as his fear of losing his emotion chip really works brilliantly! :D Picards reaction to Section 31 and how is friend Cortin Zweller could have got involved with them is brilliantly handled! :D Picard and Batanides reaction is brilliant! :D Their reactions to his getting away with also plays brilliantly especially as this is obviously setting things up for the future! :D At the same time the Tal Shiar being headed by Koval are as sinister as you would expect and are also trying to use Section 31 which really rams home the epic level the book works on! :D
Rogue has mysteries all over the place from the Romulan presence to the accusations of War Crimes against the Chiarosian ruler Ruardh that will keep you up late wanting to see what happens! :D It initially seems that the events are happening independently of each other but as the plot progresses it becomes obvious to the crew and the reader that these are only parts of a bigger picture! :D So you along with the Federation will find yourself trying to work it out and the conspiracy that surrounds all this is neatly handled! :D
The book features appearances by a number of other character seen in other books, episodes, movies etc from Picards old friends who first appeared in Tapestry, to Pardek from Unification etc and this put the books storyline into the greater universe perfectly! :D At the same time Section 31's oily fingers all over the page! :D Rogue develops them further but as the same time if it is possible makes them even more insidious! :D
Rogue is a brilliantly portrayed with action, mystery, cunning, double dealing and action in spades and will keep you guessing throughout full of world building and adventure! :D Rogue sets things up neatly for the next book and it is hand to have that one handy Abyss handy! Brilliant go and get! :D
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2021
2021 reads, #52. This is book #2 of my four-book read this month of the "Section 31" series of Star Trek "non-canon" novels, which by coincidence happens to be my first-ever read in my life of any of the now 850 Star Trek non-canon novels that exist, which gave me an excuse to write in much more general terms on the subject in my review of book #1, S.D. Perry's TOS-set Cloak, for those who might be interested in getting a primer on the topic. Following chronologically by show, this one is set during Jean-Luc Picard's Next Generation Enterprise, and unfortunately this time you see a lot more of the traits that lead so many non-fans to dismiss the entire genre of franchise non-canon novels, whether Star Trek in nature or Star Wars, Buffy or Resident Evil, Aliens or the X-Files; that is, writing that can get quite sloppy at times, featuring characterizations that just beat you over the head in order to remind you of characters you already know and love, peppered with unfunny jokes and overexplained exposition, married to an uninspiring plot, with a scope that doesn't exploit the "all made up in the reader's mind" aspect of a novel to increase the stakes dramatically, but instead feels like a pedestrian one-hour TV script trying to cut corners on the budget, despite there being no obligation to actually film it.
Most annoyingly, however, is the book being guilty multiple times of a common red flag you often see in mediocre science-fiction: where the author is writing within an "enlightened future" that has done away with organized religion, but wants to have their cake and eat it too by being allowed to let these enlightened characters from the future slip religious cursing into their dialogue, as a simplistic way for the author to allow the character to express annoyance or anger, which leads to these awkwardly cartoonish phrases in a lot of these types of novels like "Oh my rational stars!" and "Curse the ancient ones!" and "If there WAS a hell, and such a thing as damning a person to that hell, I would certainly damn you to this hell that we agree does not exist!" I mean, I agree with what you probably want to argue, that it's not actually a cardinal sin or even a fatal one -- if a so-so franchise non-canon novel author wants to slip in a few "damn you"s and "go to hell"s into this future's apparently atheistic society, the Federation will certainly still stand -- but to me, it's microcosmic evidence of a sloppy writer, one not only taking the easy way out of a situation but deliberately doing so, so awkwardly that they're not even trying to hide it. I hate sloppy writers, and I detest it when they demand that I somehow owe them time or money simply because they exist, so I'm certainly not going to have a lot of tolerance for it within a genre specifically known for its high concentration of sloppy writing. One thing I know for sure from the world of non-canon novel fandom is that there definitely exists lists of who most fans consider the best of these series authors and who are the ones to avoid; so it looks like, even here after read #2 of a possible 848 more, I'm already starting one myself, and already have a team name to add to my list of those to not read again. Sigh.
Most annoyingly, however, is the book being guilty multiple times of a common red flag you often see in mediocre science-fiction: where the author is writing within an "enlightened future" that has done away with organized religion, but wants to have their cake and eat it too by being allowed to let these enlightened characters from the future slip religious cursing into their dialogue, as a simplistic way for the author to allow the character to express annoyance or anger, which leads to these awkwardly cartoonish phrases in a lot of these types of novels like "Oh my rational stars!" and "Curse the ancient ones!" and "If there WAS a hell, and such a thing as damning a person to that hell, I would certainly damn you to this hell that we agree does not exist!" I mean, I agree with what you probably want to argue, that it's not actually a cardinal sin or even a fatal one -- if a so-so franchise non-canon novel author wants to slip in a few "damn you"s and "go to hell"s into this future's apparently atheistic society, the Federation will certainly still stand -- but to me, it's microcosmic evidence of a sloppy writer, one not only taking the easy way out of a situation but deliberately doing so, so awkwardly that they're not even trying to hide it. I hate sloppy writers, and I detest it when they demand that I somehow owe them time or money simply because they exist, so I'm certainly not going to have a lot of tolerance for it within a genre specifically known for its high concentration of sloppy writing. One thing I know for sure from the world of non-canon novel fandom is that there definitely exists lists of who most fans consider the best of these series authors and who are the ones to avoid; so it looks like, even here after read #2 of a possible 848 more, I'm already starting one myself, and already have a team name to add to my list of those to not read again. Sigh.
January 13, 2023
I came across a few Star Trek novels recently in my local Little Free Library and this is the first that I've read. I have enjoyed Star Trek, The Next Generation, and Deep Space Nine in the past, but have not taken the time to watch any other of the television shows. To this point, the Trek books I've read have also been from these shows.
This was a fun, easy-going adventure book read in the Star Trek mold. Although I agree with other readers that the Section 31 aspect of the story, which revolves around a secret organization within Starfleet, is not central to the story, it seems clear that these books were meant to be building blocks for a future story line. I personally liked how it introduced the idea without requiring the reader to have a knowledge of other Section 31 books to understand the story. Now that these books are 20yrs old and more, it is more likely for someone to come upon a random copy like I did as opposed to getting the entire line of the series.
As expected, Captain Picard is the central character of the book, with lesser story given to the other TV show characters. In their place are Zweller, a Section 31 operative and Admiral Batanides, both of whom are friends from Picard's past and Lt. Hawk, the young, promising officer. Hawk is very much in keeping with Star Trek as he is honest, capable, and basically an all-around good guy. Also featured are the Romulans and the Chiarosans, who I was not familiar with.
Fans of the Trek shows will find this book easy to pick up, as the stories seem made with fans of the show primarily in mind, however I do think this book could work as a straight ahead adventure story for those unfamiliar with the show. The most important thing to know is that Star Trek operates in a more black and while world with characters like Picard operating as traditional "good guys" in every sense of the term. If that is something that would interest you as a reader, this book has something to offer.
The only aspect of the story that I found "off" was a late scene with Data in a struggle with an artificial intelligence. I don't want to spoil the story and the action itself was written fine, however as Data had only been a minor character in the book until that point and the intelligence is more of a "surprise" enemy/obstacle, it would appear that the author was told to include Data in the climax due to his popularity on the show. The scene could have been removed without changing the story at all. Otherwise, a fun book and a quick read. Enjoy!
This was a fun, easy-going adventure book read in the Star Trek mold. Although I agree with other readers that the Section 31 aspect of the story, which revolves around a secret organization within Starfleet, is not central to the story, it seems clear that these books were meant to be building blocks for a future story line. I personally liked how it introduced the idea without requiring the reader to have a knowledge of other Section 31 books to understand the story. Now that these books are 20yrs old and more, it is more likely for someone to come upon a random copy like I did as opposed to getting the entire line of the series.
As expected, Captain Picard is the central character of the book, with lesser story given to the other TV show characters. In their place are Zweller, a Section 31 operative and Admiral Batanides, both of whom are friends from Picard's past and Lt. Hawk, the young, promising officer. Hawk is very much in keeping with Star Trek as he is honest, capable, and basically an all-around good guy. Also featured are the Romulans and the Chiarosans, who I was not familiar with.
Fans of the Trek shows will find this book easy to pick up, as the stories seem made with fans of the show primarily in mind, however I do think this book could work as a straight ahead adventure story for those unfamiliar with the show. The most important thing to know is that Star Trek operates in a more black and while world with characters like Picard operating as traditional "good guys" in every sense of the term. If that is something that would interest you as a reader, this book has something to offer.
The only aspect of the story that I found "off" was a late scene with Data in a struggle with an artificial intelligence. I don't want to spoil the story and the action itself was written fine, however as Data had only been a minor character in the book until that point and the intelligence is more of a "surprise" enemy/obstacle, it would appear that the author was told to include Data in the climax due to his popularity on the show. The scene could have been removed without changing the story at all. Otherwise, a fun book and a quick read. Enjoy!
February 7, 2024
There were moments I thought were really cool in this book but the characters were not being consistent across the board. I might have to watch Tapestry again but I thought he still was in good touch with Zweller and Batanides and treasured those friendships but here they completely fell apart. How Zweller can be an agent with the way he does things is beyond me. Picard kept making foolish decisions and putting himself in harm's way but I guess this is more movie Picard than TV show Picard because those are two different characters. Hawk is gay. Okay buy for the first half of the book he could not be mentioned in the story without being reminded that he is so. Finally they remembered that he is capable of being on the Enterprise other than for ticking a box and let him be an actual character for a while and then ended the book hammering it over your head again that he's gay. Don't forget reader!!! Section 31 seems kind of incompetent and they forgot they were supposed to be a secretive organization throughout the book. Well I wouldn't swing this book into okay and awful territory as I did enjoy parts of it and you have to turn off your brain for some of it (just like the characters do) to really enjoy it. Standard fare.
September 26, 2021
I really like the book, a good read, Star Trek TNG characters were really well depicted. The one problem I have with the book was the main intelligence intrigue - if Section 31 or any cell of Starfleet Intelligence were that naive when dealing with Romulan Tal Shiar (not thinking why such a generous offer was made to them by the adversarial intelligence agency - (the intelligence analysts must always think about what they do not know in any given situation) - and if it would have any real value for the Federation) then they should be immediately eliminated as likely causing more harm than good to the Federation (that level of naiveness and stupidity could be considered as deliberate work for the enemy).
Still, despite that founding sin, the plot, and action is good.
Still, despite that founding sin, the plot, and action is good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2024
Entertaining, but a bit on the safe side if you will. One of the things I enjoyed about Star Trek-DeepSpace 9 was the characters were more complex the Star Trek-The Next Generation. A bit more on the dark side if you will, Sysco was much ore Kirk than Picard. But in the DS9 universe, Section 31 and Sloan can exist more openly. A great quote:
“ Interesting, isn't it? The Federation claims to abhor Section 31's tactics, but when they need the dirty work done, they look the other way. It's a tidy little arrangement, wouldn't you say?"
– Odo, 2375 ("The Dogs of War")
“ Interesting, isn't it? The Federation claims to abhor Section 31's tactics, but when they need the dirty work done, they look the other way. It's a tidy little arrangement, wouldn't you say?"
– Odo, 2375 ("The Dogs of War")
February 8, 2020
I enjoyed the storytelling in this book. I felt like I was reading another Star Trek TNG episode. The best part of the novel was the dialogue between character Hawk and Zweller over the purposeful rule-breaking of Section 31 compared to the seat of the pants decision making that Riker and Picard do.
Although this is part of a series this book does a good job of standing on its own. I will probably read the other books in this series if they are available in my local library.
August 31, 2021
At no point do you ever get the impression that Section 31 is anywhere close to the rogue, exciting, powerful, amoral shadow organisation depicted in DS9, or some of the other books of this period. Hawk never shows why they would be interested in him beyond his eidetic memory - he's as blandly All-American as it's possible to be, no hint of the element of subversion required. This book took me three weeks to read because I just couldn't ever get excited enough to pick it up again. A shame.
July 19, 2020
Watched all the star trek series but this was my first star trek book. I picked it because it was about section 31 and I was hoping to get something a bit different to TV star trek, something a bit risque. I was disappointed. Instead I got a good enough read but it's just another Jean Luc story. Following his reactions to section 31 rather than allowing section 31 to lead the story elsewhere.
May 25, 2021
Still a fun read that threads the Section 31 saga through the Star Trek universe, though I found the pacing to be oddly sluggish in places.
3.5/5 The overall plot and actualization of the crew is still enjoyable.
3.5/5 The overall plot and actualization of the crew is still enjoyable.
February 10, 2025
Interesting story focused on a secondary character from the film "First Contact". I really loved the plot, but often felt like so many details were included pulling from other Trek lore that it became almost like a name dropping session.
October 12, 2025
This book is pretty good, but the weird part is the talky philosophy stuff is the best part. When characters are discussing the merits of Section 31 is entertaining, aa it should be. The action parts of the book, kind of slow. More spy stuff.
December 27, 2025
Definitely would make a good prequel movie to First Contact movie. Lots of action a story line that tracks well. There was enough happening with the main characters and themes that 50 pages could have been cut by not describing superfluous details.
December 13, 2018
So good.
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