by Greg Cox

Pocket Books, out now

The Enterprise races to assist an institute that’s under threat – from a race that can weaponize gravity.

This standalone original series novel from the ever-reliable Greg Cox originally was published in 2013, so doesn’t have the additions to canon from Discovery – not that this tale in particular would necessarily be affected, but it would provide yet more examples for Kirk and crew to think off in terms of continuity. It’s set quite late in the five year mission, where the bond between the crew is tight, and each knows that the others would do what they could – but that the mission comes first.

Kirk and Spock are separated from the others for the majority of the story, getting involved with a situation that raises questions over the Prime Directive. Sulu and a newly created crewmember are behind enemy lines in a place where their minds could be taken over (something Sulu’s well aware of the perils involved from The Return of the Archons and elsewhere). Meanwhile on the Enterprise, an injury to Scotty puts Uhura in charge… The only person who gets a little short shrift in this is McCoy, but there’s an in-story reason for this.

Cox knows this crew and series well, and although in common with others of its era, it over-references broadcast stories somewhat, it’s a well-told tale.

Verdict: Another enjoyable tale from the original series. 8/10

Paul Simpson

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