Vornholt, John

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The Seven- A review by a fan of the TV Series and Books
this is so cool
Really, Really Good!!

The Seven #2 (Flight 29 Down)
John Vornholt
Manufacturer: Grosset & Dunlap
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0448441071

Book Description

The castaways from 29 Down have learned to fend for themselves, and it looks like island living may agree with them—at least until they're rescued. But even while they hone their survival skills, the resentments and issues that divide them continue to grow. They've chosen a leader—but what good is a leader if he can't keep the team together?

Customer Reviews:

The Seven- A review by a fan of the TV Series and Books.......2006-05-07

So, heres Book 2.. The Seven have been stranded for a few days now. Food starts to become a major issue, a mysterious "friend" appears to help, Eric plays more of his tricks but then really ends up in trouble, the group sends a 'message in a bottle', Blackmail comes in more ways then one.. That just a few of the things happening. A nice refreshing book series and a wonderful read.

The book focuses more on Jackson then even the show does, which is good in a way, but bad in others. It takes away from Jackson's 'mysterious' personality, but then again, show some of his thoughts.

One of the things that I noticed right away was, because the writer was different, the writing style was different. Although it followed the series well, the characters seemed a little out of character. Especially Jackson. There was also less comedy and sarcasm then the first one. The writer of the first book wrote it like D.J. MacHale would have wrote it. This style is totally different. It doesn't take away from the book, though. But, just be warned that the reading is a little different then the first.

Still a great book- I recommend it.

this is so cool.......2006-03-15

I love the tv show and the books are great I just wish I didn't have to wate so long for a new show or book to come out.

Jackson is my fav.

Really, Really Good!!.......2006-02-27

I read this after I read the first one, and man, this series is really good.It is very accurate to the show only getting one thing slightly out of order.The Seven also includes a preview to the next book which is nice.

A very good read for any fan of the series.

A Time to Die (Star Trek The Next Generation)

Average customer rating:

A mediocre sequel to a mediocre book.
Ugh and Holy cow
A study in how two characters can destroy a book
Why won't Wesley die??
Does anyone who liked this book watch Star Trek TNG?

A Time to Die (Star Trek The Next Generation)
John Vornholt
Manufacturer: Star Trek
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0743467663

Book Description

On the cusp of their epic battle with Shinzon, many of Captain Jean-Luc Picard's long-time crew were heading for new assignments and new challenges. Among the changes were William Riker's promotion to captain and his new command, Riker's marriage to Counselor Deanna Troi, and Dr. Beverly Crusher's new career at Starfleet Medical. But the story of what set them on a path away from the Starship Enterprise has never been told.

UNTIL NOW.

It was supposed to be a mission of mercy, until the unthinkable occurred: the destruction of the U.S.S. Juno, killing all hands on board. Starfleet Command has unjustly assessed the actions of Captain Picard and the Enterprise crew during that fateful assignment to the Rashanar Battle Site -- the sector that saw one of the fiercest conflicts of the Dominion War, and which is now a hazardous interstellar graveyard filled with hundreds of devastated starships. While the court-ordered medical evaluation that relieved Picard of command is ongoing, there is growing speculation that his illustrious career may be coming to an end.

To clear his former commander, acting captain William Riker and a demoralized skeleton crew agree to conduct a covert operation, and must venture the Starship Enterprise back into Rashanar to track down a mythical menace -- one that may already be responsible for the annihilation of countless fully armed starships. Unbridled hostility and the promise of death lurk at every turn, but they could never imagine that their only chance of survival may lie in the unexpected return of a long-absent friend....

Customer Reviews:

A mediocre sequel to a mediocre book. .......2005-08-03

The second in the "A Time To..." series, "Die" picks up where "Be Born" left off. The U.S.S. Juno has been destroyed, and after an inquiry has been convened, Captain Picard has been relieved of command, with Riker made acting captain. To clear Picard's name, the crew goes back to the Rashanar battle site to find whatever it was that destroyed the Juno. There's more action in this book than there was in its prequel, but that unfortunatley doesn't do much for it. The characterisations are still off, and there are some big plot points that just get written off way too quickly.

Spoilers...
First off, the love story between Wesely and Coleen Cabot. They talk, have sex and BOOM, they're in love. All within the space of a few paragraphs. It seems that most of the affair is written only for filler, because it's badly done and Cabot dies towards the end of the book.

Second, Wesely is on the Enterprise, having left Picard and co. on the Skegge for like, ten minutes. He comes back and Picard tells him, "Oh yes, we met up with some looters and struck a deal with them, and they've installed a cloaking device on our ship." If I were Wesely, my only question would have been "When?"
End spoilers...

It seemed like as the ending drew nearer, there was a bigger rush to resolve different matters, and that hurt the story. Again, completionists will want to read "A Time to Die" just so they won't be lost in subsequent books. I'm glad that the torch is passed on to other Trek authors in the next book. John Vornholt just didn't do it for me.

Ugh and Holy cow.......2005-03-04

Let me preface this review by saying first and foremost I am a serious Star Trek fan and have been for a very long time. I've had a hard time watching each new TV series fall further and further in quality and have turned to books for my "Trek-Fix".
So without further ado......

(Also please note, some of my comments may spoil things for you if you haven't read the books. I'll attempt to note before hand what is a spoiler)
These first two books written by Mr.Vornholt are mediocre at best. This easily could have been a single book. Nevertheless the books have other faults as well (Note: I'm writing one review for both Vornholt books Time to be Born and Time to Die). Let's start from the beginning of this book.
It takes place pretty much right as the last book ended. I suppose my first real problem with it comes here. Seeing Picard in a nuthouse seems.... well.... silly. The books explains this away as a device to keep him from getting court-martialed for the incident that happened in the previous novel. His "keeper" is named Colleen Cabot. She has little or no personality and seems to take a strange glee in needling Jean-Luc. The first 1/4 of this book is completely disposable except for a couple little plot driving points stuck in haphazardly here and there. Then we move back to Rashanar. The scene of the most horrible battle ever in the Dominion Wars (How many times I've heard that I can't count). The idea behind Rashanar is interesting for the first book and about halfway into this book. Then it becomes the typical "Get the alien" fair, with a little conspiracy thrown in.

--SPOILER AHEAD--
My major gripe with this particular book is the sudden turning of Colleen Cabot into a vibrant, annoying, opinionated brat and that somehow Wesley and her fall in love in the space of a paragraph and all it right with the universe. Colleen questioning herself as to whether she loves Wesley as Wesley or Wesley the Traveler is just sad. Clearly it is in my mind, filler. The author seems to desperately be trying to make you like her as a character and quickly develop her character.
--SPOILER OVER--

The book (including Time to be Born) moves at jerky rates. Giving the reader reading whiplash from the lack of any kind of coherant flow or pacing. The entire middle of the book, with crew members dorking around inside Rashanar was so drawn out I actually started skimming paragraphs. I just took to long with little or no point... more filler material obviously.
The dialogue is sometimes archaic in Trek references (Food SLOT?!) and Data's Dialogue is very forced. In fact I found most characters dialogue forced as if the author had never seen a Next Generation episode in his life.
I do look forward to other authors taking over the helm (pun intended) and doing something interesting with this series of Trek books.
I am not sure what else Mr.Vornholt has written or even if he has written other Trek books. I'm sure he's a fine writer but he just didn't do it this time around.

A study in how two characters can destroy a book.......2004-11-12

Fresh on the heels of A Time to Be Born, its companion novel, A Time to Die shows up. And what a clunk it makes. Star Trek novels have their detractors, but I'm not one of them. This one, however, almost makes me change my mind. There is so much wrong with this book that I don't know where to begin. Just to start at the easy part, how about a summary?

After the destruction of the Ontailian ship at the Rashanar graveyard in A Time to Be Born, and after the Ontailians destroy the starship Juno, Captain Picard is back on Earth being held in a mental institution for ongoing medical tests. He has accepted a deal that will avoid a court martial, but he is determined to discover what really happened at Rashanar, site of one of the fiercest battles of the Dominion War. To clear his former captain, Acting Captain William Riker takes the Enterprise, with a skeleton crew, back to Rashanar to find out what the Ontailians are really hiding at the graveyard. Thankfully, he has the help of Picard, the counselor performing his medical evaluation, and an old friend. Wesley Crusher is back, and he's determined to help the Enterprise and his old captain, even if it means he can no longer be a member of the mythical beings called "The Travelers." However, death and destruction await them amidst the wreckage of so many ships.

A Time to Be Born was a book about Picard (and a little bit of Data). Wesley was in it, and he actually became a little annoying prancing around during the inquiry back at Starfleet command (the only annoying part of that entire section of the book). But it was Picard's book. A Time to Die makes the whole thing Wesley's story, and it really suffers for it. I have never been a Wesley detractor as so many Star Trek: The Next Generation fans have been, but he's never been a favourite of mine. However, this book has a lot of Wesley using his Traveler powers, jumping from ship to ship to planet to outer space, observing things. He almost makes things too easy, despite Picard's insistence that they can't begin relying on him. Wesley is a Deus ex Machina throughout the entire book, except for the fact that the book is actually about him so maybe that term doesn't apply. Still, it does make the book less interesting. He convinces Picard's counselor of what happened by whisking her away to the Rashanar graveyard, something she must find very erotic because the next time she sees him she's all over him.

Which brings me to why this book suffers so much. First, Wesley's actions and manner are incredibly annoying, making me want to blow him out an airlock at times. Secondly, the relationship that develops between Wesley and Cabot comes literally out of nowhere. One minute, she's resisting releasing Picard, and then after Wesley takes her to Rashanar, she's suddenly hot for him? And he for her? Yes, he does find her attractive in their first scene together, but to go from "finding her attractive" to "being all over each other" in the span of a few pages? And then to have their relationship be this intense love that makes neither one of them want to be apart from one another? The whole thing is ridiculous, and every time they were together I wanted to belt them one. Then, her inevitable fate is so perfunctorily done that it had no affect on me whatsoever. I also found that this relationship brought out a giddiness in Cabot that just suddenly manifested itself too. She does almost a complete 180 degree turn in attitude that I just can't fathom. Yes, love can change somebody like that, but when I don't buy the love story, I certainly don't buy the character change.

There are other characters problems, too, though most are ok. The most striking is Admiral Nakamura, who goes from an almost ruthless man in a meeting with a character to crying over that character's death at the end. The first part I thought was very good, but I certainly didn't buy the crying, at least not for that character. Vornholt once again gets the regulars right, though that's coloured by Cabot's presence in so many scenes. Wesley's reluctance to reveal himself to his friends is very pertinent (he thinks the more he reveals himself, the more likely it is that he will lose his powers), but it makes for some very awkwardly done scenes between when both he, his mom, Cabot, and others are in a room together.

I'm looking for something positive to say about this book, and I'm having trouble. The scenes that don't have either Cabot or Wesley in them are usually well done. Unfortunately, there aren't many of them. The mystery of Rashanar is interesting, especially the secret behind the creature in the graveyard. Wesley also solves the problem in a very interesting way, fulfilling his vision from the beginning of the first book without allowing any of the main characters (who you know will survive, as Paramount would not allow their deaths) to die. In fact, the entire concept is intriguing.

It's just too bad that it had to end with such a bad book. A Time to Die is worth reading once, just to continue the story. But try to beg or borrow it before wasting money on it.

David Roy

Why won't Wesley die??.......2004-08-24

I rather enjoyed this book and found it amusing when Wesley's girlfriend slapped him on the ass after having sex. A follow-up story of Wesley's son would be most interesting. The Medusan floating in space-time was also very interesting. Overall this was a good read at your local bookstore and the price was right (a cup of coffee). The Pool of Prophesy was clearly stolen from Lord of the Rings. Too bad Wesley didn't interact with some of these species we know little about like the Breen or even other "entities" besides Q. Wesley walking around a Borg ship would have been interesting. An assimilated Traveler. Even better, Wesley could have been the Borg Queen! I'm tired of Wesley saving the universe. Wesley needs to be put into statis or into the nearest singularity.

Does anyone who liked this book watch Star Trek TNG?.......2004-07-05

I can't begin to tell you how shocked I was at the reviews for this book. Not only does the author have trouble representing the characters truthfully (I mean he only has seven years of TV episodes and four movies to study), but the writing was horrendous, just like every other book I've read by this author.

But overall, I was most disappointed with the characterizations. I didn't see the crew I love, which was what I was hoping for. If you want to see a Star Trek crew back in action where the books read so clearly that you can actually see the story as if it were an episode, go get the DS9 relaunch.

I pray that the other authors in this series show me the TNG crew, because this author couldn't find them.

Book Description

"As a matter of cosmic history, it has always been easier to destroy than to create." <BR> -- Spock, The Wrath of Khan

Sweeping across the Alpha Quadrant at a terrifying speed, a wave of Genesis energy has wiped out whole populations of entire planets, rearranging matter on a molecular level to create bizarre new landscapes and life-forms.

The U.S.S. Enterprise ™, commanded by Captain Jean-Luc Picard, managed to counter the threat, halting the wave in its tracks and stopping the alien race that had sent the wave crashing through the galaxy. In the process the crew saved trillions of souls and hundreds of inhabited planets from the mutagenic wave. Earth itself, as well as the Romulan Empire, was saved from obliteration.

Now nothing is left to do but clean up the mess the Genesis Wave left behind. Or so it seems.

Unknown to Picard and his crew, the use of the Genesis Wave on a galactic scale had weakened the walls between our dimension and one right next door, one that harbors a deadly threat to not only the survival of civilization throughout the galaxy, but the survival of reality itself.

The Genesis Wave, Book Three, is the final volume of an apocalyptic adventure that pits the desperate crew of the Starship Enterprise against a disaster of universal proportions.

Download Description

"As a matter of cosmic history, it has always been easier to destroy than to create." -- Spock, The Wrath of Khan Sweeping across the Alpha Quadrant at a terrifying speed, a wave of Genesis energy has wiped out whole populations of entire planets, rearranging matter on a molecular level to create bizarre new landscapes and life-forms. The U.S.S. Enterprise , commanded by Captain Jean-Luc Picard, managed to counter the threat, halting the wave in its tracks and stopping the alien race that had sent the wave crashing through the galaxy. In the process the crew saved trillions of souls and hundreds of inhabited planets from the mutagenic wave. Earth itself, as well as the Romulan Empire, was saved from obliteration. Now nothing is left to do but clean up the mess the Genesis Wave left behind. Or so it seems. Unknown to Picard and his crew, the use of the Genesis Wave on a galactic scale had weakened the walls between our dimension and one right next door, one that harbors a deadly threat to not only the survival of civilization throughout the galaxy, but the survival of reality itself. The Genesis Wave, Book Three, is the final volume of an apocalyptic adventure that pits the desperate crew of the Starship Enterprise against a disaster of universal proportions.

Customer Reviews:

What happened?!!?.......2006-10-22

I was also going to title this review "ARRGGGHHHH!!!!". After two solidly-plotted books, the Genesis Wave saga falls completely to pieces with this third book. A Bajoran Priest steals a Genesis device, believing it to be the Orb of Life. The Enterprise, teams up with Admiral Necheyev and a small band of mercenaries to retrieve it. It's a good premise, but character-wise the result is such an illogical mess.

Firstly, I can understand why Picard is having a romantic liason with the Romulan Commander (although I did think "Ewwwww..."). I can even understand Dr. Crusher being concerned, and even a bit jealous. The latter is perfectly in keeping with their relationship, which culminates in Michael Jan Friedman's novel Death In Winter.

My biggest problem is with the motivations of the other characters. Just exactly why is Raynr Sleven (the Androsian) so attracted to one of the main characters? The Florence Nightingale Syndrome subplot was developed far too quickly, and was completely unconvincing. And why does Treya forgive another character's transgression so quickly during the course of the book? An emotional arc like that needs more drama and conflict, so that the resolution at the very end of the book is richly earned. I didn't get that impression here.

The biggest oversight, continuity wise, is a humongous conflict between the history of Nurse Ogawa as told in the Star Trek: Titan novels, and what happens at the end of this book. I'm actually very glad that Marco Palmieri and co. chose to ignore this development in Book Three. It gives Ogawa more depth, and makes her a more interesting character.

In summary, Genesis Wave Book Three is a complete and total mess. Picard's behaviour is jarring but explainable. Crusher's attitude is also understandable. But the rushed resolutions to the other character arcs makes for an extremely frustrating read.

3.5 Stars?.......2006-02-15

This is a fairly well-written book, interesting and quick-moving. It's something of a disappointment, however, because it is the third book of a three-book series which was quite adequately ended after two books; this is not really a continuation of the story from those books (although technically it is) but more of an afterthought tacked on, and it weakens the feeling of completion that the reader had after book two. It would actually work better as a stand-alone than as the completion of this series, although to work properly as a stand-alone, it would need a bit more introduction.

Also, we see very little of the regular characters here; they have their parts to play, but are not the focus of the story. This in and of itself isn't necessarily a bad thing, and the non-regulars (Nechayev, Teska, Regimol, etc) are handled quite well. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for the regulars; where they appear, they don't always ring true, particularly Captain Picard.

Tentatively recommended, but not if the reader has read the first two books of this series and felt satisfied with the conclusion of book two. In that case, it might be best to take a pass on this one and leave well enough alone.

The sequel that should never have been written.......2005-01-26

What do you do when you have written a really great two-book series full of galactic destruction and adventure? If you're John Vornholt, you churn out a third book as a sequel to them (granted, it may very well have been the publisher's idea, but he could always have said no). Genesis Wave: Book 3 is everything that the first two books weren't: boring, plodding, with bad characterization and large stretches where nothing interesting happens. It is not only entirely forgettable, but it's also inconsequential.

The Genesis threat has been neutralized with the help of the Romulans and almost the entirety of Starfleet. However, the problems are not over. While the cleanup begins, the Enterprise discovers that the Genesis Wave has weakened the boundaries between our universe and another one, allowing horrifying creatures to bridge the gap. A massive rip in space does not bode well for the Federation's survival, especially because this isn't the only rift out there. Meanwhile, on a backwater mining planet, a Bajoran Prylar (similar to a lower-level priest or monk) is given what turns out to be a portable Genesis device. Believing it to be the Orb of Life, he is determined to use it for the good of his people, no matter what the true consequences will be. Aided by a Ferengi, a few Bajorans, and an enigmatic Vulcan, this Prylar could very well cause a lot more suffering than he thinks he will cure. But will the Romulans kill anybody they have to in order to get a hold of this final device?

It's almost hard to begin, there is so much wrong with this. First, the characterization is way off. Weird romance passages abound (Vornholt seems to have been bitten by the Christie Golden bug, as he describes many characters as "stunning") and even when the romance angles are a bit more understandable, they are stilted an obvious. One of Crusher's patients falls in love with her, but Crusher is acting like a jealous fishwife because of the way Picard is acting with the Romulan commander on the other ship. Picard's actions are made clear later in the book, but Crusher's are never really explained. In all their years of working together, they have been attracted to each other, but she's never acted this way. This book takes place between Insurrection and Nemesis, and there's no hint in either one of these movies that would allow for Crusher to act like she does in this book. Troi and Riker aren't nearly as bad, but some of their scenes together really grated on my nerves as well. There are times where they don't act like the professionals they are. Even Vornholt's characters are not immune to this. The Romulan commander has a hold on Picard's emotions (I won't say how, for fear of spoiling) but, for some reason, she has a scene where she tells the sleeping Picard that she really loves him. It's never referred to again.

The rest of the book introduces characters that I, for the most part, cared nothing about. The book seems to be a showcase for a new series that never actually started, of "Genesis Warriors," or at least warriors who banded together to fight the Genesis threat. There's the Vulcan priestess, the Romulan who has a secret, the defected Romulan who is a Starfleet admiral's agent, a Ferengi, and a shape-shifter (not a Founder). Sounds like a super-hero team, in a way, even down to them having a strong leader who gives them missions in Admiral Nechayev. My first understanding was that Genesis Force would be their first (and last) adventure, but I recently discovered that Genesis Force takes place concurrently with this three-book series, so that's not true. Even so, it does look like the "premiere issue," even going so far as to really ignore the Enterprise crew for long periods at a time.

Then there's the completely unnecessary references to Vornholt's Gemworld TNG series of books. The characters (especially Troi) keep wondering if the rift is something similar to what happened on Gemworld. It's never definitively answered (and if so, I was so bored I missed it) and even if it was answered, it really had no bearing on the plot. If there's anything I hate more than the overuse of continuity, it's the overuse of *useless* continuity. Vornholt at least doesn't take large portions of the book to explain what happened on Gemworld, but he comes close. Another use of continuity I had to laugh at is what ends up being the Romulan plan (and I shall say no more in fear of spoilage).

Other strangeness abounds as well. The entire Picard plot thread, though clear to the reader before this happens, is revealed to the characters in about two sentences as soon as Nechayev boards the Enterprise in a completely anti-climactic moment that allows them to plan a commando mission on to the Romulan ship.

The best thing I can say about the book is that the atmosphere is pretty well done. The excavation of the lab on Lomar, where all of the dead and dying bodies taken over by the moss creatures in the previous books reside, is quite chilling and oppressive at times, mirroring exactly how it would feel to work in that environment.

Other than a few odd moments here and there (like Lomar), I had to really struggle with this book. It reads very quickly, just like the first two books do, but yet it's also a struggle to get through as you the plot gets more and more outlandish. The worst thing is that this book was *completely* unnecessary! The first two books were so good, but this one almost cheapens them. I say almost, because thankfully this book is not necessary for the enjoyment of those two. It can be completely ignored, and probably should be.

David Roy

Don't Bother.......2004-09-07

Genesis Wave book 1 and 2 were excellent. I don't know what the author was thinking of when he wrote his 3rd book. He should have quit while he was on a roll.

A real letdown after the first two books........2004-01-07

The DS9 series had a practice of showing a humorous, light entertainment episode after two or three very serious ones. I am not sure the author intended it, but he seems to have tried to do that and failed with the third book in his series. The Enterprise crew barely has an impact on the main section of the plot, and the seduction of Picard by a Romulan Commander is way over the top. The problem with side-lining the Enterprise characters is that the author's new characters, with the exception of the Ferengi, aren't very well done or interesting. Also, most of their action is undercover stuff, but it is so badly done and ridiculously written that it just comes off as a farce. There is also a sub-plot featuring a Romulan and a Vulcan that is annoyingly over-emotional, strange as that may sound. The sections featuring Admiral Nechayev as a starship commander are thankfully good but too few. Finally, the book ends with a metaphysical incident that I found really disturbing: our galaxy experiences a moment of total peace and harmony as Genesis kills an alternate, sentient universe. All in all, the entertainment value of this book was quite low, especially compared to its predecessors.

Star Trek The Next Generation: The Genesis Wave : Book One

Average customer rating:

Excellent fragment.
Catch the Wave
Au Contraire
When "let there be light!" has a negative effect...
It Was Great

Star Trek The Next Generation: The Genesis Wave : Book One
John Vornholt
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster Audio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio CD

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The Genesis Wave Book Two (Star Trek The Next Generation)
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ASIN: 0743510348

Book Description

"As a Matter of cosmic history, it has always been easier to destroy than to create." <BR> -- Spock, Star Trek® II: The Wrath of Khan™

Intended to create life from nothingness, the Genesis Device had the potential to become a weapon of awe-inspiring destructiveness, capable of rearranging matter and life energy on a planetary scale. After the cataclysmic explosion of the Genesis Planet, and the Klingon Empire's attempt to steal the top-secret technology for its own military purposes, Starfleet wisely decided to destroy all data and records on Project Genesis, hoping to bury its deadly secrets forever.

Nearly a century later, all that remains of Genesis is the knowledge stored in the mind of an elderly, almost-forgotten scientist named Dr. Carol Marcus. But Dr. Marcus has gone missing, and a menace from bygone days has come rushing back with a vengeance.

Sweeping across the Alpha Quadrant at a terrifying speed, a mysterious wave of energy is wiping out populations of entire planets. The Starship Enterprise™, commanded by Captain Jean-Luc Picard, is the first Starfleet vessel to discover the threat. Billions of living beings and hundreds of inhabited planets lie in the path of the mutagenic wave. Earth and the Romulan Empire face total obliteration.

To discover the origin of the wave, Picard and his crew must probe the long-buried mysteries of the past. But even if he can uncover the shocking history of the Genesis Wave, is there any way to save the future from its unleashed fury?

Download Description

Project Genesis -- once it was a Federation scientist's brainchild, the ultimate solution to overpopulation and food shortages in the Alpha Quadrant. Instead, it became a weapon of awe-inspiring destructiveness, capable of rearranging matter and life energy on a planetary scale. Starfleet destroyed all Genesis data and records, hoping to bury its terrible secrets forever. But now, nearly a century later, Captain Jean-Lud Jean-Lud Picard and the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise must suddenly face the deadly rebirth of Genesis -- with the fate of the galaxy hanging in the balance.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent fragment........2005-04-07

This is a marvellously well-written fragment of a story; as suggested by the "Book One" in the title, it is not a complete story unto itself; it has no ending. Were it not for that fact, it would rate five stars; the characters are handled wonderfully, the plot moves well, there is sufficient action without there being an over-reliance on action, and there is marvellous suspence. Unfortunately, for my taste, there's a little TOO much suspence, as the story ends at a cliffhanger. I understand that some people like that sort of thing; I find it annoying.

Catch the Wave.......2005-03-27

Okay, so it won't be winning a Pulitzer any time soon. But this is as fun as it gets. If you're a big fan, it's what you've always wanted, a good, long episode of TNG.

The title refers to a weapon originally meant to be a speedy, convenient means of terraforming. As usual, the good intentions of the scientists who invented it have been trumped by evil, and now the Genesis Wave has become a doomsday device in the hands of mysterious enemies, ravaging entire planets one by one as it moves through space, transforming all organic matter--including, of course, living beings--into primordial sludge. Ick, and kewl.

The story begins with the creator of the Genesis Wave, who's been exiled for years in an attempt to keep the technology secret after Starfleet acknowledges its deadly potential. When she's--you guessed it--kidnapped! mayhem ensues. Vornholt skillfully switches scenes to the first planet to be transformed, where we meet Leah Brahms, yeah, that one, the one Geordi fell in love with on the holodeck. She's been busy creating a suit that will allow engineers and the like to survive during a warp core breach, and it's her story that eventually takes us to the Enterprise, as Starfleet scrambles to try to combat the Genesis Wave. Leah and Geordi, as well as a few new characters, supply all the necessary subplots.

Vornholt delivers a tasty, easy plot, great mounting tension, and full, compelling characters, both old and new. This is genre fiction at its best, and, being only a first installment, promises hours upon hours of sheer, mindless fun. Gotta go put it my order for books II & III now.

Au Contraire.......2005-02-23

There is one interesting thing about this book: all the good stuff happens in the last ten pages, so now I have to debate whether I want to continue or not.

Where I stand: this is not my first ST:TNG book. It's my fifth, and I am also not a complete trekkie. I like the series enough, and I love the books.

Mr. Vornholt, unfortunately, writes a book that is poorly written. The characters are individual enough, but their reactions are all flat.

*spoiler*
For example, there is a scene in which a klingon finds out how to survive the wave. His reaction: oh really? then he changes the subject.
*end spoiler*

Sorry, but if I learned that information, I'd go berserk and try to talk about the issues, not change subjects.

Mr. Vornholt infuses the book with "Yes, Sir" everywhere. I couldn't stand it! Not to sound narrow, but this is one little pet-peeve of mine. In the series, they never said Yes, Sir as often as this, and if it's written, I doubt it's written with a capital S every time!!! It was one thing that completely annoyed me. Yes, Sir. Like two sentences trying to start at the same time.

The book is slow and Chapter 14 could have been condensed, truncated, anything. I forced myself to read it so I could say I read the book entirely.

Needless to say, I was sorely disappointed and will not be continuing the series. And if no one believes me (this is *not* a fast-paced thriller like everyone claims), take a good look at the summary on the 1st edition hardcover: Book 1 of two books.

Mr. Vornholt is up to four books now. The man knows how to take your money and give you nothing.

In praise: while many of the NG characters do not act as they would in a Peter David book, the twists are actually pretty fun.

To conclude: These twists occur in the last ten pages of the book. Good luck.

When "let there be light!" has a negative effect..........2005-01-22

As a Star Trek books fan, I'm not one who likes books that dwell needlessly on series continuity. I picked up the Genesis Wave books, by John Vornholt, because they looked interesting and they are another link from the Original Series (TOS) to the Next Generation (TNG). I was hoping that it wouldn't be wallowing in continuity, and surprisingly, it doesn't. Instead, we get a rollicking adventure (if you can call a book where millions, perhaps billions, of people die as "rollicking") that creates another tie to the old series but yet does something fresh. Just a little bit of character whining detracts from an otherwise quite enjoyable book.

Vornholt does a wonderful job of giving us just enough continuity to explain what's happening without going into excessive explanations about the whole thing. I always wondered what had happened to the device after the Star Trek III movie, as it's never referenced again. Sure, the planet was unstable and blew up, but that's it? Vornholt takes what happened in the movies and extrapolates, giving us a horrifying force that is able to wipe out entire planets. There is one chapter that is a report on the Genesis Device, from four different sources as Starfleet examines the ramifications of the entire project. This gives enough background information for those who haven't seen the movies, but also gives additional information that even those who have seen it don't have, keeping it interesting. Otherwise, the continuity references are kept to a minimum, which I loved.

The body count grows quite quickly, but it's abstract enough that it doesn't get overwhelming. On the other hand, we do see, first-hand, the effects of the Wave, as Leah Brahms (the love of Geordi LaForge's life, though she doesn't know that) weathers it in a specially modified environmental suit that she was experimenting with for other reasons. The descriptions of this can get a little graphic, but only in a PG-13 way.

Vornholt also balances the personal and the cosmic pretty well, giving the reader a lot of character moments interspersed with the Wave itself. Counselor Troi finds herself stuck on a planet taking readings of the Wave (in a modification of Brahms' suit) and also seeing it first-hand. Riker has to do a last-minute rescue of Troi on another planet just before the Wave hits. LaForge pines for Leah, as well as finding himself increasingly attracted to a geologist on board, Dolores Linton. In fact, Geordi became the only annoying part of the book, as he was constantly thinking about Brahms, whining that she didn't know how he felt. Or, later, wanting to tell her but unable to because her husband had just been killed by the Wave and she was after revenge. Very human, but also annoying to read.

One wonderful addition to the book is Maltz, the only Klingon to survive the events of Star Trek III. It's now 90 years later and he's an embittered drunk. He's never been able to live down what happened to him, being captured by Kirk & Company. He's lived on the idea of vengeance against Carol Marcus since then, but when Leah meets him, he's just a drunk on an out-of-the-way Tellarite colony. However, he recognizes Leah's description of the Genesis effect, and hitches a ride with her. He becomes one of the more delightful characters, filled with gusto and energy, willing to follow Leah to the ends of the galaxy because he knows she feels the same way he does about the whole thing. He gives a light edge to the whole thing, balancing out the enormous devastation in the book. Of course, I had a hard time picturing John Larroquette playing him, but it *has* been 90 years. Even better, Vornholt again gives us just enough information to know that *something* happened back then with Jim Kirk, but he doesn't spend two pages explaining the plot of Star Trek III.

The rest of the characters are also well done, even if they don't stand out as exceptional. I loved the relationship between Picard and Admiral Nechayev, mirroring perfectly what we saw in the series. They exasperate each other some times, but both know that the other is good at his/her job and there is a great deal of respect there as well. Riker & Troi are also handled well, given their relationship at the end of the movie Insurrection. Good points all around for Vornholt on this basis.

The plot seems simple at first, but Vornholt adds just enough intrigue to make it even better. Ostensibly, the plot is just to stop the Wave and find out who is using it. But little side-plots, some having to do with the main one and some tangents, are scattered all over, giving the book a lot more depth than it may seem to deserve. The tension is palpable, and the twists and turns are interesting and not *that* predictable. It moves at a steady pace, which also makes for a quick read. It's hard to put down.

Vornholt, as an author, frustrates me sometimes. He's either hit or miss for me. His books in the Time to... series were really iffy, but this one is great. Well worth a read for the Trek fan, and even a not bad one for the non-Trek one.

David Roy

It Was Great.......2004-09-07

Book 1 and book 2 of the Genesis Wave was about the best Next Generation books I've ever read. The author, John Vornholt did a wonderful job mixing the old generation with the new. All the old charaters were there. Dr. Carol Marcus, Kirk's old flame, Leah Brahms, Picard and cast. Carol Marcus is duded into setting off the Genesis Wave and it destroys an entire solar system. Leah Brahms and Geordi work closely together to figure out how to disengage the wave. The two books keep you at the edge of your seat. Book III, was not very good and I recommend not reading it. It pretty much had nothing to do with book I and 2.

Average customer rating:

Could have been so much better!
It was (yawn) the third age (stretch) of mankind........
Jhaeman's Reviews
Weak
0 stars -- really, REALLY bad

Voices (Babylon 5, Book 1)
John Vornholt , and J. Michael Straczynski
Manufacturer: Dell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ACCUSATIONS: Babylon 5, Book #2 (Babylon 5)
Blood Oath (Babylon 5, Book 3)
Clark's Law (Babylon 5, Book 4)
Betrayals (Babylon 5, Book 6)
The Touch of Your Shadow, the Whisper of Your Name (Babylon 5, Book 5)

ASIN: 0440220572
Release Date: 1995-02-10

Customer Reviews:

Could have been so much better!.......2007-04-18

Voices is the first of a series of nine novels. The book is set at the beginning of season 2, between "Points of Departure," and "A Race Through Dark Places." A Telepath conference takes place on the Babylon 5 space station following a terrorist attack on Mars that blew up the hotel where the Teeps where originally planning on holding their meeting. Another bomb though will throw the station into turmoil and turn one station resident's life into a nightmare...
At first I was simply amazed at the reviews this book had received; 1-2 stars??? I was thinking to myself `You gotta be kidding,' but half way through the book I started to realize why.
The first part of Voices describes events as they unfold on B5 and it is great! Although the novel focuses mainly on Talia Winters and Michael Garibaldi, it does a good job with the characters at hand, and the reader is able to read the protagonists' thoughts; the characters really do come alive!
John Vornholt makes use of existing B5 plots and subplots, e.g. the Mars Troubles, teeps vs mundanes/normals, the special relationship between Talia Winters and Ambassador Kosh.
In addition, the author provides a good description of several Babylon 5 sectors including Down Below.
The first half of the book is well written and presented, and the reader feels that they have been transported to another plane of existence and are actually present among the characters, seeing what they see, feeling what they feel, sensing what they sense.
The description of planet Mars was simply breathtaking: "Mars was a place that couldn't possibly exist, yet here it was, a monument to humanity's determination to bring life to a dead planet. No matter how many buildings they put up, the edifices of man always looked tenuous on Mars, like vines trying to cling to a smooth metal door." (Page 238)
On pages 62-63 and 64-65 respectively, the author provides a good, albeit short, dose of humor with Lennier and Londo.
In addition, Talia's telekinetic powers (as seen in the episode "Mind War") are presented on page 110.
Finally, on page 105, the author foreshadows the erotic relationship between Talia Winters and Susan Ivanova.
Regarding the comments others have made about Talia being described too often as being "hot," let's face it, she is darn hot!
In short, it's all there and it's all good until the moment, half way though the book, when John Vornholt moves the story away from Babylon 5. From there it's all downhill:
1) The Bilagaani are like something out of Aldous Huxley's Brave New World and are really not that interesting!
2) It's good to see Deuce again, but he doesn't act like himself, e.g. why would Deuce help Talia without any reward whatsoever?
3) Why does Gray go against Bester (!) for no apparent reason, especially when the book starts off by saying that he is the most powerful man in Earthforce? (Page 1)
4) Talia's escape from B5 as well as from the restaurant on Earth (with the old lady pretending to be the victim of a flasher!) was just sad...
5) The coincidences (e.g. Talia and Garibaldi on the same ship heading towards Mars, getting out of impossible situations over and over again) were just too much.
6) As other reviewers have also pointed out, why something so big/major is not mentioned in any of the following episodes?
7) The ace up Garibaldi's sleeve at the end is as lame as they get!

In short, the first half of the book is close to 5 Stars, while the second half is a poor 1 Star, the average being 3 Stars.
With the series over, thank goodness for the novels, though Voices does disappoint a bit.
More novels please, and... bring back the SHOW!!!

It was (yawn) the third age (stretch) of mankind...............2007-01-20

Normally I stay away from movie and tv show tie-ins. They frequently disappoint. But I had heard good things about the B5 (Babylon 5) novels and was missing the old show. So I picked up several of the novels, found a nice, cozy spot, and began to read.

At first it was nice to revisit the characters. As I read, I could hear their voices once again. I could see Babylon 5 itself, and hear the constant murmur of visitors coming and going. It felt comfortable and familiar.

The book is set near the beginning of the second season, and starts rather well. The idea of 400 psi-corp telepaths aboard B5 for a convention was both surreal (a convention? Don't worry, there's a good reason for it) and a little thrilling considering what was to follow within the story arc of the tv show. The bloom comes off the rose rather quickly, however. Mr. Gray, a telepath attached to the military, comes across as the rather decent individual that was portrayed on television, but he's also becomes a love-struck, pathetic wimp who stops just short of stalking the object of his affection, Susan Ivanova. Talia Winters, around whom the story revolves, is constantly referred to as "shapely", "sexy" and "beautiful". Oh yeah, "smart" is thrown in there a few times, apparently, to try and ward off the sex symbol stereotype. This is so overdone that the only reason Garibaldi is able to find Talia after she flees B5 is that he recognizes her ..... from behind.

This really wouldn't be so bad in a much better, more interesting novel. They could be accepted as charming idiosyncracies of the characters. The problem is that they are among the more endearing qualities of the novel. A great part of the novel is spent on Talia fleeing to earth to try and clear her name. Actually, most of that time is just spent getting to earth. On a freighter. Alone except for a criminal stowaway. The very criminal that helped set Talia up to begin with. One that then helps Talia for, in the end, no real reason. Oh, and Talia lets him go without even trying to discover what his role in her set-up was, even though it might have cleared her name. Ummm..... what else? Oh, they run into a sort of Native American tribe made up of white people. Ahhhh .... well, that's really it, actually. A major part of the novel where nothing of any consequence happens. Except Talia finds a wig she quite likes. That was nice.

And just what was the title, "Voices", really referring to? The novel leaves you with a couple teasing ideas, but never actually makes its point.

There are a couple of positives. First, the drive and amoral ambition if the psi-cop Bester is made even more apparent, as is an interesting plot for the future control of Psi Corp. Second, the book expands, a little, on some story elements hinted at in the TV show but never expanded upon (apparently the studio made the shows creator, J. Michael Straczynski, cut back on some episodes). This includes Talia's new telekinetic ability and Kosh's interest in her. By why Straczynski, a man known for his rigid control over his intellectual property rights, would approve this weak introduction into B5 novelizations is puzzling.

Whatever the reason, `Voices' is mildly interesting and tolerably written. Read it if you are a B5 fan. Stay away from it if your new to the B5 universe. Go watch season one on DVD instead.

Jhaeman's Reviews.......2006-05-27

I found this a surprisingly good novel! Most media tie-in novels are mediocre, but Voices was an exciting read. Set in the second season, the plot concerns a terrorist bombing of a Psi-Corp conference. Talia is framed for the bombing and has to go on the lam. The novel focuses mostly on Talia and Garibaldi, with a healthy dose of high-quality Bester. Highly recommended!

Weak.......2005-07-30

I recently purchased this book used while going through a Babylon 5 kick (gotta see and read it all).

Despite the "historian's note" stating its chronological context within the overal series arc, this book felt completely disconnected to the Babylon 5 universe. Having recently watched the episodes between which this is supposed to have taken place, I was further thrown off by the lack of continuity. The momentous events in this book simply could not happen and then receive absolutely no mention from the characters involved the next time they come into contact with one another in the show.

Having said that, the worst part of the book is the writing itself. Characters' motivations tend to change from page to page in order to serve the plot, the dialogue is painful, and the writer's tendency to refer to Talia Winters as the "shapely young telepath" (or some similar description) gets really old.

This book is best read like the early Star Wars novels (the first Han Solo trilogy and Splinter of the Mind's Eye, etc.), the ones that were "based on" the further adventures of Luke Skywalker. In other words, it's not canon, so if you don't read it, it won't affect the overall arc of the series.

0 stars -- really, REALLY bad.......2003-11-14

To start with, the author doesn't understand the difference between Celsius and Kelvin, thereby turning Mars into a hothouse world. It goes downhill from there.

Average customer rating:

The Return #3 (Flight 29 Down)
John Vornholt
Manufacturer: Grosset & Dunlap
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Action & Adventure | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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The Seven #2 (Flight 29 Down)
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ASIN: 0448441292
Release Date: 2006-06-01

Book Description

After a week of being stranded on an unknown island, the remaining seven survivors of Flight 29 Down have pretty much gotten their routine down. Everyone has his or her job and pulls his or her weight. But when an unexpected visitor suddenly reappears on the scene, will she disrupt their delicate balance?

Tunnel Through the Stars: The Dominion War, Book 3 (Star Trek: The Next Generation)

Average customer rating:

The graveyard of the ships and the dimensional portals made no contribution to the plot
Good action story.
If you love Picard, you'll love this book. Superb Finalé!
...In For a Pound
Good conclusion to book 1.

Tunnel Through the Stars: The Dominion War, Book 3 (Star Trek: The Next Generation)
John Vornholt
Manufacturer: Star Trek
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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Behind Enemy Lines: The Dominion War, Book 1 (Star Trek: The Next Generation)
Call to Arms...: The Dominion War Book 2 (Star Trek Deep Space Nine)
Sacrifice of Angels (Star Trek Deep Space Nine: The Dominion War, Book 4)
Tales of the Dominion War (Star Trek: All)
The Battle of Betazed (Star Trek: The Next Generation)

ASIN: 0671025007

Book Description

In the Federation's time of greatest peril, as the Starship Enterprise™ readies itself for battle, Captain Jean-Luc Picard leads a desperate mission of espionage deep into the heart of the hostile Cardassian Empire. Unless they can prevent the Dominion from creating an artificial wormhole, hordes of fresh Jem'Hadar warriors and Changelings will pour into the Alpha Quadrant, dooming the Federation to unconditional surrender. But there may be a traitor along on the mission and Picard finds he cannot trust even his closest allies.

Download Description

From the Gamma Quadrant they came, hordes of merciless Jem'Hadar soldiers commanded by the shape-changing Founders, who seek to conquer both the United Federation of Planets and the Klingon™ Empire. Now that the Dominion has joined forces with the Cardassians, and claimed "Deep Space Nine™ " as their prize, Starfleet is running out of time. As a secret military project nears completion, the destiny of the entire Alpha Quadrant depends on the courage of a few. In the Federation's time of greatest peril, as the "Starship Enterprise™ " readies itself for battle, Captain Jean-Luc Picard leads a desperate mission of espionage deep into the heart of the hostile Cardassian Empire. Unless they can prevent the Dominion from creating an artificial wormhole, hordes of fresh Jem'Hadar warriors and Changelings will pour into the Alpha Quadrant, dooming the Federation to unconditional surrender. But there may be a traitor along on the mission and Picard finds he cannot trust even his closest allies.

Customer Reviews:

The graveyard of the ships and the dimensional portals made no contribution to the plot .......2006-12-09

The Federation is locked in a brutal war against the Dominion and things are not going well. Deep Space Nine has been lost and the Dominion is building a giant artificial wormhole. If it is completed, the Dominion will be able to send enormous numbers of Jem Hadar soldiers and ships through it to join the battle against the Federation. If that were to happen, the Federation would certainly be defeated.
Captain Picard is on a ship with a motley crew of various species. The crew includes a Trill who was the genius behind the development of the artificial wormhole, a Bajoran who once deserted to the Maquis, a Starfleet officer who was once a Dominion slave, a captured Romulan with one arm, Geordi LaForge and a Vulcan. Their mission is to somehow infiltrate Dominion space and destroy the wormhole. To complicate matters, there is a traitor on board who is sabotaging the mission. Despite the odds, Picard manages to get the ship into Dominion space, reaching the wormhole. He also manages to identify and destroy the traitor just before they launch their mission of sabotage.
The action in this story is kept rather low-key until the end. Most of the plot revolves around Picard's attempts to simultaneously carry out the mission and expose the saboteur. This point is a little weak, as the first act of sabotage should have been a strong indication as to the nature of the threat. Data and the rest of the Enterprise crew play essential but bit parts in the story, the focus is on Picard and his command abilities. While the story did keep my attention, there were points where the pace of the story was too slow for my tastes. I started to grow weary of the same features repeated with slight modifications over and over again. I also didn't understand why the story about the graveyard of ships and the winking in and out of the various dimensions had to be included. It came across as filler.

Good action story........2004-06-12

Like the first book in this miniseries, this book is a fine action story, with a lively plot that moves right along at a fast clip. Also like the first book, if you want anything OTHER than action, this is the wrong book to pick up. The one attempt at something more than fast-paced action -- a budding romance between Ro Laren and Sam Lavelle -- is handled remarkably clumsily. This sub-plot could have been very moving and powerful; instead, it was only rather distracting. It didn't really ring true for either character, and seemed completely out of place, merely something tacked onto the main plot for the purpose of deflecting accusations of a lack of character development.

This book is really a sequel to book one of the series; as near as I can tell, book two adds very little if anything to the storyline in books one and three. Essentially, books one and three are a linked pair, as are books two and four, but the two pairs actually have very little to do with one another and can be read independently of each other.

If you love Picard, you'll love this book. Superb Finalé!.......2003-12-25

Book 4 continues on from book 2 (book 1 and 3 should be read together as a different series). I enjoyed seeing the many twists this book had to offer and how Picard coped with it all. The horrors of war were better flushed out as Riker's new conquest turns depressing, something I much enjoyed. Troi gets some time to do something, and since it's tied with Riker it was fun to read. Picard's ragtag team on the Orb of Peace was quite fun to read, especially when they encounter new people in the Badlands and take aboard an interesting one-armed 'guest'. That character was very refreshing, esp. due to his appreciation for Picard. It is sad to see the Enterprise tied at a starbase for most of the series, but it was quite necessary to accentuate the brilliance of Picard. A little romance b/w a few characters was actually quite well done, although somewhat unexpected from Ro's behalf methinks. I loved how Picard manipulates Grof to help him by strengthening his ego. The author really makes Picard shine, as it should be!
The cover of this book is very misleading, never does the Enterprise attack 2 Cardassian Galor-class ships. Its eventual turnout is very expected, but it still made me smile despite the predictability. Data's presence was very welcomed and it was good to see Geordi's response to him. Both series (1&3, 2&4) are essential turning points in the War. If either Sisko or Picard had failed, while the other succeeded, it would all be for nought, which makes this 4 part series somewhat intertwined. Personally I prefered books 1 and 3 to 2 and 4 since 2 and 4 were for the most part taken straight from the TV show whereas the TNG part was fresh and in accordance with the established characters. If you love Picard, then reading what he did to save the Quadrant in books 1 and 3 will be worthwhile.

...In For a Pound.......2003-08-11

Let me clarify my rating for this novel. I felt the conclusion of this tale was very good, but the editing was terrible. A variety of times during the Riker subplot, the female repair officer seemed to change ranks a few times, between Commander (pg30) and Captain (pg22). Once I realized the simple error, overlooking it because easy. But I digress...

The main tale of adventure weaved by Vornholt caught my attention and kept me pushing to finish the story. The sub-plots felt contrived. Data charging to the rescue and the Enterprise being in the right spot at the right time, felt wrong. The story was great but the execution just was not there.

I loved the tale and story. Would I read more from John Vornholt? I am not sure. As a Star Trek fan, I can forgive the minor problems in this novel. I even understand the pressure deadlines can cause on good stories. No one is perfect, so I am sure I will dive into more novels.

Ro Laren character comments:

S.D. Perry re-introduced Ro into the Deep Space Nine novel re-launch. The development of her in this story did not interfere with the character in Avatar. There is a minor mention in Avatar about Picard protecting Ro from Starfleet, which no seems kind of awkard but doesn't interfere.

Good conclusion to book 1........2000-06-12

This book concluded book 1. very nicely, I must say. As did book 1., this book moved smoothly. It also a couple plot twists that may not be expected.

The Genesis Wave Book Two (Star Trek The Next Generation)

Average customer rating:

Dense on plot, light on characterization
Another excellent story fragment.
Not exactly the Garden of Eden
A good follow-up book
STNG The Genesis Wave II - A fitting conclusion...!

The Genesis Wave Book Two (Star Trek The Next Generation)
John Vornholt
Manufacturer: Star Trek
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0743411838

Book Description

Like an unstoppable cosmic storm, the dreaded Genesis Wave sweeps across the Alpha Quadrant, transforming planets on a molecular level and threatening entire civilizations with extinction.

To combat the rushing terror of the wave, Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the crew of the Starship Enterprise have been forced into a tense alliance with the Klingon and Romulan Empires, both of which crave the forbidden secrets of the Genesis technology for themselves. Now the finest minds of three civilizations must race against time to find some way to halt the deadly wave before yet another world is transformed into something alien and unrecognizable....

The bestselling saga continues!

Download Description

After the death of the Genesis Planet a century ago, Starfleet destroyed all data regarding Project Genesis. Now, a mysterious wave of energy is sweeping across the Alpha Quadrant, wiping out entire planets. Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the "Enterprise" crew discover the threat--and become endangered as well.

Customer Reviews:

Dense on plot, light on characterization.......2006-10-22

After reading the first two books, I'd definitely liken Genesis Wave to a Star Trek-style Disaster film - ala' The Poseidon Adventure or Towering Inferno. The big difference is that we know exactly who's going to live and who's going to die. The big drawcard is Vornholt's descriptions of the horrific effect that Genesis has on its victims. Particularly in the case of Persephone and Myrmidon.

The plot flows at a near frenetic pace - so fast that you almost don't notice the small changes in characterization. One glaring example is Geordi LaForge's budding attraction to Leah Brahms. I'd always assumed that the two nascent lovebirds had decided to be good friends. It's interesting how an internal monologue within a novel can turn what I thought was the romantic status quo, completely on it's head. I still can't decide whether this decision was fan wish-fulfillment, or a logical next step for the two characters.

I don't put Vornholt on the same level as Keith R. A. DeCandido, as I think the latter has the edge when it comes to writing solid characterization and witty dialogue. But for those interested in a James Blish-style Trek story with Next Generation characters, this is definitely the novel for you.

Another excellent story fragment........2005-06-27

Like the first book in this series, this is a marvellously well-written fragment of a story; as suggested in the "Book 2" in the title, it is not a complete story unto itself. It starts in the middle of the action, book one having left us hanging on a cliff; this one picks up from there and rides the story through to an (apparent) ending. We also get a preview of "Book 3", just to let us know that the story ISN'T actually over yet, but at least the current immediate plot is tied up nicely.

Between the two of them, books one and two make for a five-star Star Trek novel, with excellent characterizations, good action, and a fine plot with many interesting convolutions. I'd have preferred to see this sold as a single large volume, but that's just a personal preference; I hate to see stories broken up into separate books just for marketing purposes.

Not exactly the Garden of Eden.......2005-01-23

The second book of the Genesis Wave series continues the rollicking ride that the first book gave us, though it's not quite as tight as I would have liked. We still have the galactic destruction, but this book is much more character-based, taking some of the characters in directions that are a little more absurd than I would have liked, but still enjoyable. The ending is predictable (though the method isn't necessarily), and the story is weakened by what turns out to be multiple scenes of monster slaughter. At times, the book felt like a variation on Dawn of the Dead, and lost a little bit of its luster because of it. Still, it was quite enjoyable.

Vornholt once again has some good characterization of the regulars in this book. Maltz and Brahms are the highlights here, as they add a lot of fun to a rather downbeat book otherwise. That Vornholt does this without making the Klingons caricatures is even more of an achievement. Instead, they stay true to their Klingon heritage, trying to die with honour and taking as many of the enemy with them as possible. They look down on the humans as soft (one amusing scene has Maltz on a Federation ship trying to get *uncomfortable* in the captain's chair because it shouldn't *be* comfortable), but they develop a healthy respect for Dr. Brahms, mainly because she realizes she has to be just as gruff and harsh as a typical Klingon captain. Other than Maltz and Gradok, we don't really get a good sense of why the rest of the crew is following her. That's a minor point, however.

What's not quite as minor is one of the twists involving the Romulans, which I won't get into here other than asking: for what possible purpose would the Romulans have a contingency plan in a fairly deserted area of space before any of this happens (we're talking a matter of days, so there's no way they could have set it up after the Genesis Wave began)? There doesn't seem to be any point to it unless they somehow knew that this area would be important, but there's no indication of that. This plot hole sets up the finale, which does cheapen it a little bit

The other problem with the book is that it does, at times, become a monster hunt. This hunt is related to the whole story, so it does serve a bit of a purpose, but on Myrmidon it doesn't seem to connect with the rest of the story. Yes, these monsters are the same as are being dealt with elsewhere, but it only serves to give jeopardy to an already poignant storyline on Myrmidon, where all of these Bolians are trying to survive on a planet that's not really hospitable to them anymore. That may have been an interesting story to tell. These sequences also emphasize a "Super Data" that became a bit annoying at times. Yes, I know Data is capable of leaping great distances, but picturing him bounding around, grabbing people and then jumping away again and again became a little silly. All in all, the situation on Myrmidon did tend to distract from the rest of the book (though it did contain the classic line from Data, "Actually, you were trying to bite my face." Ok, you had to be there).

What did I like about Genesis Wave: Book 2? While I found them a bit far-fetched, I loved the Brahms/Klingon scenes. They were just a lot of fun, filled with Klingon bluster and adventure. Maltz is once again the highlight, either when he's swearing vengeance on Carol Marcus or when he's offering to pretend to be Leah's consort in order to protect her from any untoward advances from a crew member. These scenes certainly aren't flawless, but my enjoyment of them outweighed any incredulity that I might have had for them. Carol Marcus was also handled well, especially when she figures out that she's been duped, that Jim Kirk and her son are not really around her, and she must do whatever she can to stop the Wave from being unleashed again. Again, there were a few bits here and there that didn't quite connect for me (I didn't buy how easily she was able to empty her thoughts so that her captors couldn't read them, for example), but I could put any faults aside for the sheer entertainment value and the strength of the characterization. She's a woman who has the deaths of billions on her conscience, even though she was duped. This guilt and determination to not let it happen again shines through.

Genesis Wave: Book 2 is not as good, not as cohesive as the first book. However, it is a fitting conclusion to a cosmic adventure. I particularly liked how the ending is not all tied up in a neat little bow for the characters, though it is for the reader. There are some questions that you know they will never be able to answer. It's a nice change of pace. This duology is definitely worth a look-see for any Trek fan.

David Roy

A good follow-up book.......2004-09-21

This book picks up seconds after book one. By the end of the book I was left thinking that this was a perfect ending to the story. Here again we see Geordi dealing with his love interest Leah Brahams. She has been busy moving up the chain of command and now has a crew of her own. The crew of the Enterprise start succuming to the aliens that set off the Genesis Wave in order to save their dying civilization. Billions are dead and the Klingons are in the unconventional roll of acting as transport ships of the injured and refugees left in the wake of a massive evacuation that has decimated much of the alpha quadrant.

Makes a nice tie-in to the Star Trek S.C.E. series.

STNG The Genesis Wave II - A fitting conclusion...!.......2003-12-12

As with the first book in this phenomenal series, "The Genesis Wave" book two is a continuation of author John Vornholt's finest work in the Star Trek genre to date. Just as in the first exceptional novel, his visualizations, plot setup and pacing is absolutely "spot on" perfect, lending greatly to a very fast and enjoyable read. Although I read a lot of books in the Star Trek genre, I can say with absolute certainty that only a select few of the titles are as gripping as this tale is.

Like the cover art for the first title, the cover art for this second title is absolutely perfect, greatly enhancing the story.

The premise:

In the first novel Starfleet and the Romulans found themselves dealing with the Genesis wave which was ravaging its way through the Federation, heading for Earth and then the Romulan Star Empire, prompting their help, albeit duplicitous. As the first novel closed, Geordi LaForge, Admiral Nechayev and other key characters were on the planet Mrymidon riding through the Genesis wave and praying that their plan to save as many lives as possible would work...

Now, author John Vornholt takes us through the process of finding a solution to the Genesis wave and finding those responsible for its re-creation and launching. What follows from there is nothing short of one of the most intriguing and gripping thrillers in the Star Trek genre. Even more unusual and intriguing are the "bad guys" in this particular trilogy which are rather odd and original, lending greatly to the mystery of this trilogy.

I highly recommend this trilogy to any and all fans of Star Trek fiction as I have found these first two tales to be among the best Star Trek novels to date. {ssintrepid}

Behind Enemy Lines: The Dominion War, Book 1 (Star Trek: The Next Generation)
Average customer rating:

Good book, well-written.

Picard and Ro reunited? It worked for me.

In For A Penny...

Books were not as important as I thought they would be.

Finally the Dominion

Behind Enemy Lines: The Dominion War, Book 1 (Star Trek: The Next Generation)
John Vornholt
Manufacturer: Star Trek
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 067102499X

Book Description

From the Gamma quadrant they came -- hordes of fierce Jem'Hadar warriors commanded by the mysterious Changelings, who will stop at nothing to achieve victory over both the United Federation of Planets and the Klingon™ Empire. Now that the Dominion has entered into an unholy alliance with the Cardassian military regime and seized control of Deep Space Nine™, Starfleet finds itself fighting a losing war against unbeatable odds. As mighty fleets clash in the deadly battleground of space, the fate of the entire Alpha Quadrant hangs in the balance.

The Enterprise-E is patrolling the Cardassian border, bracing for the joint Dominion-Cardassian offensive that Starfleet knows will come soon, when Captain Jean-Luc Picard and his crew are reunited with a former crewmate, friend, and enemy: Ro Laren. The onetime officer, who defected from Starfleet to join the rebel Maquis, brings disturbing news. Deep behind enemy lines, the Dominion is attempting to build an artificial wormhole that will allow them to bypass the mined Bajoran wormhole and bring fresh reinforcements into the Alpha Quadrant, altering the balance of power irrevocably. If Captain Picard cannot stop the project, the new wormhole will guarantee the ultimate victory of the Dominion!

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"The Enterprise-E" is patrolling the Cardassian border, bracing for the joint Dominion-Cardassian offensive that Starfleet knows will come, when Captain Jean-Luc Picard and his crew are reunited with a former crewmate, friend, and enemy: Ro Laren.

Customer Reviews:

Good book, well-written........2004-05-02

This book succeeds at what it sets out to be: an excellent action-based story set during the Dominion War against the Cardassians and the Founders. It makes little to no attempt to be more than that, so if you're in the mood for something more than a good action story, this isn't what you're looking for. But if that's what you're in the mood for, this will do just fine.

Picard and Ro reunited? It worked for me........2003-12-25

First, books 1 and 3 should really be part 1 of the Dominion War, and books 2 and 4, part 2 (or vice-versa) since there is no overlap between the two whatsoever. I agree that it was a little questionable of Picard to let Ro off so easily and 'welcome' her back, but it is understandable given the context of the Dominion War and the Federation losing thus far. Crusher and Troi are virtually ignored. Riker is his typical self, macking on a woman. Data kicks ass alone, though I wish more of his inner thoughts were explored. Geordi is good, but Ro and Picard and Sam Lavelle steal the show. Grof's character is well written and evokes an emotional response. Picard is his usual brilliant self and Ro evokes the same strong character as on the series. The cover of the books (all four) are rather misleading (esp. the 4th), but I don't agree that books 1 and 3 are lacking when viewed in the context of the Dominion War. Books 2 and 4 are where the gusto is, where we see some of the Federation Fleet attack some of the Dominion fleet. Books 1 and 3 are the small scale level of undercover ops about what has to be done to save the quadrant. Both series (1&3, 2&4) are essential turning points in the War, and I'm very glad to see that Picard was his usual brilliant self saving the entire Quadrant... yet again. If either Sisko or Picard had failed, while the other succeeded, it would all be for nought, which makes this 4 part series somewhat intertwined. Personally I prefered books 1&3 to 2&4 since 2&4 were for the most part taken straight from the TV show. My only complaint, why does the Enterprise drop shields to fire her quantum torpedoes? Answer: she doesn't, or at least she shouldn't!

In For A Penny..........2003-08-03

As one of the first novels by John Vornholt, I really enjoyed the start of this adventure. This is the first review I will write after completing this book, but will come back and revise it after I have completed the series.

I was overjoyed to see the return of some of my favorite minor characters. The return of Sam Lavelle and Taurik from the Next Generation Episode "Lower Decks" as prisoners of war fighting for their lives and their freedom. We also see Ro Laren return to the Federation to continue on with the good fight.

The development of Data and Riker in this novel showed unexpected twists and turns. The loneliness of duty and the personal losses people suffer during tragic times played a wonderful but somber reprieve from the action filled development of Picard and Ro.

Going back after the completion of the Next Generation movies, the finale of Deep Space Nine, and the re-launch of the Deep Space Nine novels, I question where the development of characters should be. The expansion of the Ro character in this story arc has been well done but I reserve how well the transition from the end of this arc to the beginning of Avatar by S.D. Perry. To read my final say on the matter, jump over to the review of the final novel in this arc.

Books were not as important as I thought they would be........2003-05-26

When I saw this seies I bought all the books. The dominion war is referred to a number of Star Trek books with little detail. The 2 Shatner Trilogies refer to it as well. And, of course the TV shows dealt with it.

I figured that with four books to accomplish to job, I would get a "full" understanding and description of the Dominion war. It doesn't happen. These books offer little and are not important to the Star Trek story.

Books one and three are with the TNG characters. I don't care for TNG books that have little or no participation of my second favorite character DATA. (guess how i feel about nemesis?) Books 2 and 4 are with the DS9 characters and seem to offer little that you haven't seen.

Riker spends the entire book in space dock romancing a lunatic bureaucrat. Data sits on a lifeless planet doing nothing.

Worf still hasn't married Jax or whoever she is this week. Ron Laran falls for a guy named Sam?

Books 1 and 3 rate a 3.5 star and books 2 and 4 rate a 2.5 for an average of 3. But if you are interested in buying books to fill in fun details about the dominion war, they haven't been written yet.

Maybe Michael Stackpole and Aaron Allston can get together and write a good series about the Dominion War.

Finally the Dominion.......2003-03-02

Since I began reading a variety of Star Trek Books it became clear that The Dominion War was a central event. Virtually all of the books I had read referred to the war with The Dominion, so it was clear this 4 part series was important to putting many other books in their proper perspective,

The second in the series is going to switch to the setting of Deep Space 9 but this first book spends its time initially with The Enterprise TNG crew and then introduces many characters from episodes of The Next Generation television series. Many of these players have become slaves constructing a weapon that is arguably the most lethal of any man-made object imaginable when used by a species like the Jem-Hadar. The device can also be harmless and productive, think of an airport or interstate highway, hard to do without but when turned in to transport for weapons and destruction their function can be even more powerful for evil than good.

Ro Laren was always one of my favorite characters that disappeared from the television series never to return. She is back in this book, and judging from the storyline she will play a prominent role in his story arc. She has also appeared in the Deep Space 9 series Avatar, so I hope she has made a more or less permanent return.

The Federation is in the midst of a war and a pretty severe beating when Ro Laren once again finds herself face to face with the captain she once betrayed. Captain Picard makes decisions that are would be unique if made by other captains, but he tends to make decisions despite, in this case, his second officer Riker all but physically restraining him. And thus begins one of the most motley crews ever to man any transport and to take it to the most forbidding areas of a war, and then to an area behind enemy lines.

An interesting side story is the mission that Data takes on his own, a task that no conventional life form could ever fulfill. Data has plenty of work but he also finds he has plenty of time to reflect and philosophize on how he deals with war versus his human counterparts. His emotion chip is at his control, and he constantly makes evaluations as to whether or not it should be on or off. One of the questions he arrives at is how do his friends remain sane during war? Again an interesting time for Data and while not a major portion of the book, a storyline that is sure to be continued.

Gemworld Book Two of Two (Star Trek The Next Generation, No 59)
Average customer rating:

STNG #59 Gemworld Book 2 - A good conclusion!

ST-TNG: Gemworld Book #2

Control Alt Delete

Gem World next generation

An Excellent Continuation and Ending!

Gemworld Book Two of Two (Star Trek The Next Generation, No 59)
John Vornholt
Manufacturer: Star Trek
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0671042718

Book Description

Sparkling like a three-dimensional snowflake in the depths of space, Gernworld once was one of the Federation's greatest marvels. Six different alien races coexisted peacefully on an artificial world composed entirely of crystal -- until the very substance of Gemworld began to multiply out of control, tearing the world apart. Now the entire planet -- and the Starship Enterprise™ as well-faces total destruction.

The only way to stop the disaster is to turn off the vast network of force fields holding Gemworld's atmosphere in place, but to do so will require the cooperation of each of the planet's half dozen alien civilizations, one of which sabotaged Gemworld in the first place. With time running out, Captain Picard and his crew, including a lovestruck Lieutenant Barclay, must embark on a hazardous trek across the dying planet to find and unite the chief engineers from many strange and exotic races -- while watching out for a mass murderer determined to destroy a world!

Download Description

The "Enterprise" crew sets out to find out who's responsible for the slow destruction of Gemworld, the crystal planet. A powerful sect that views the planet's artificial shell as holy resists Picard's tampering. But a mysterious murder occurs, suggesting that the planet itself is responsible for Gemworld's destruction.

Customer Reviews:

STNG #59 Gemworld Book 2 - A good conclusion!.......2003-05-24

As with the first book of this mini duology, John Vornholt continues to expound on the wonderful world he has created in Gemworld. In the first book he described only a few of the quite interesting and different species of Gemworld. In book two, he craftily brings the remaining species into the spotlight. As with book one of the Gemworld mini duology and with all of his previous novels, John Vornholt again proves that he can create whole new microcosms within the Star Trek universe, capitalizing on the possibilities of the twenty fourth century and what the future of space travel can entail. Of the entire myriad of outstanding Star Trek authors, John Vornholt stands out in the arena of bringing the oddest of creatures to sentience and cunningly scribing them into a well thought and compelling story or stories.

The premise:

Continuing where Star Trek # 58 Gemworld Book One left off, Captain Picard, Lieutenant Melora Pazlar and the most unlikely of heroes Lieutenant Reginald Barclay are deep in the quagmire of trying to save Melora's home world of Gemworld. Facing a dimensional rift that is seemingly encompassing the entirety of the planet, deceit and deception of those they're trying to help and no apparent means of escape, Captain Picard and crew must find a way to gather the remaining crystals from all six of the sentient species inhabiting Gemworld in order to shut down the shell protecting Gemworld. Combine all of these possibilities and it all adds up to another fairly compelling story by one of Star Trek's better authors.

I highly recommend this mini duology to those who read as many or all of the Star Trek novels and to those who are casual Trek readers. {ssintrepid}

ST-TNG: Gemworld Book #2.......2003-05-02

Star Trek-The Next Generation: Gemworld Book #2 written by John Vornholt is the conclusion to the 2 part series called Gemworld. Gemworld is a multifariousness of crystaline structures and the book is written with a vivid and colorful descrition of them.

The main characters are Lieutenant Reginald Barclay and Captain Jean-Luc Picard in this book as they embark on a hazardous trek to find the causal effect that is dooming Gemworld. As mentioned in the first book there are six sentient races of beings interwoven in the Gemworld, one humanoid the Elaysians and five non-humanoid the Alpusta, Frills, Lipuls, Yilterns, and Gendii. Picard/Barclay try to get the engineers of these races involved in the solution of the problem with Gemworld; but there is a mass murderer afoot... determined to destroy all of Gemworld.

This is a well-written book and the plot moves right along, full of action-adventure with mystery and intrigue placed within the story for spice making for a well-told, engrossing, and a desperate quest on a planet in turmoil. I gave it 5 stars for its imagination as well as a well-written story.

I wish only one thing and that would be that both of these books could have been incorporated into one longer novel making for a single purchase, but the money gods at pocket books new they could get the TREK reader to buy both. Other than that, Genworld is a good story to add to your TREK library.

Control Alt Delete.......2003-02-05

The first of this two part series deserved the benefit of the doubt as the story is by definition left incomplete. The incomplete resolution of this second book makes the pair of books a low priority for any fan who enjoys reading these installments, for book #2 would be handicapped enough if it was not such a cliché, and did not use so much material fans have seen before. The solution to the problem is almost laughably poor.

Mr. Barclay is now completely fallen for his new love, Commander Deanna Troi has once again had her empathic powers damaged (sound familiar), and, you guessed it, a rip in space/time is the menace that once again gets recycled by authors who have no imagination for something new.

I will keep this brief as the book is not worthy of your time. The ending is one of the weakest I have read in any Trek adventure, and to make matters worse a great deal of the book is recycled from other stories you have either seen on television or possibly read before. Some have suggested that the movies could be judged by whether they were an even or odd number in the series. I think that perhaps how bad the cover art is may also be a way of judging these books. I know it goes against a long held and valued saying about how not to judge a book or anything else. But when the cover art is poor and not by a talented artist or a well-known one, perhaps the unwillingness to invest in the visual presentation should be a clue for what may lie within.

Gem World next generation.......2000-11-28

Gem World was a truly wonderfull storey, with a very interesting alian planet to save and some marvelous characters plus the added bonus of Mr. Barclay in loooove. It has plenty of twists and turns and keeps you guessing till the end. A must read for star trek fans and sci fi fans.

An Excellent Continuation and Ending!.......2000-07-14

After reading Gemworld part 1, I had to read part two to see what happens. Boy I was extremely thrilled with what happens. I was intrigued with in this book John Vornholt explained each of the non-Elaysian species that lived on Gemworld. There is one thing that I disliked about both books is that Tangre Bertoran was in my opinion a real HUGE pain in the backside. From The Moment the Away team met him in the first book I knew that he could not be trusted at all! I would recommend this book to any Star Trek Fan. If you read the first book then you would want to read this one to find out what the conclusion is.

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