The Children of Kings.

Before Kirk's historic five-year mission, the mighty U.S.S. Enterprise was commanded by Captain Christopher Pike. In response to an apparent Klingon attack on a Federation starbase, Pike takes the Enterprise to the Borderlands, a lawless region of space controlled by the Orions. Hoping to strike an alliance with elements of the Orion syndicate, Pike soon discovers that not all is as it seems with this mysterious and ancient race.

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson are joined by Justin Oser to discuss The Children of Kings. We talk about the time period in Star Trek history, some confusion about which timeline the book takes place in, Dr. Philip Boyce, Orion history, Number One, other characters in the novel, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

At the top of the show, Dan and Bruce review issue #3 of IDW's Star Trek: Year Five and respond to listener feedback from The Babel Conference on Literary Treks 272: A Fun Borg Romp?.

News
Star Trek: Year Five #3 Comic Review (00:03:09)
Listener Feedback (00:16:55)

Feature: The Children of Kings
The Setting (00:25:07)
Kelvin or Prime? (00:31:55)
Dr. Philip Boyce (00:42:16)
The Orions (00:47:18)
The Tallith (00:51:59)
How We Visualize Things (00:57:26)
Kritos and Pike (00:59:21)
Number One (01:04:49)
Captain Dmitri Vlasidovich (01:10:54)
Starfleet Intelligence (01:14:05)
Ratings (01:18:08)
Final Thoughts (01:25:20)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Orion's Hounds.

The Starship Titan under the command of William Riker begins its mission of exploration far beyond the boundaries of Federation space! In the largely-uncharted Gum Nebula, Riker and the crew of Titan encounter giant, space-dwelling lifeforms that have been seen only once before: during the mission to Farpoint Station that began the voyages of the Enterprise-D. But these majestic lifeforms are being hunted, and Riker feels the need to intervene. However, all may not be as it seems.

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson discuss the Orion's Hounds. We talk about the beginning of Titan's true mission, the mysterious "star-jellies," Riker's decision to get involved, the other cozmozoans that make up the Gum Nebula ecosystem, the difficulty in changing one's way of life and adapting to new circumstances, some stand-out characters in the novel, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

In the news segment, we talk about the recently-announced reprinting of the novelization of Star Trek: The Motion Picture in honor of the film's 40th anniversary. We also review the fifth issue in IDW's Star Trek: The Q Conflict miniseries and respond to Babel Conference feedback for Literary Treks 271: To Thine Own Self Be True.

News
ST:TMP Novelization Re-release (00:03:13)
Q-Conflict #5 Comic Review (00:07:55)
Listener Feedback (00:17:56)

Feature: Orion's Hounds
Titan's Mission of Exploration (00:22:53)
The "Star-Jellies" (00:29:41)
Making Snap Judgments (00:34:16)
The Pa'haquel (00:45:24)
A Matter of Perspective (00:50:23)
Adapting to Change (01:03:04)
Character Relationships (01:11:32)
Orilly Malar (01:22:37)
Ratings (01:27:03)
Final Thoughts (01:30:12)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Resistance.

The Borg are no longer a threat thanks to the decisive blow delivered to them by the crew of Voyager upon their return to the Alpha Quadrant... or so everyone believes. When Captain Jean-Luc Picard begins to once again hear their thoughts in his mind, he knows the truth: The Borg are back in the Alpha Quadrant, with plans not just for assimilation, but annihilation. Starfleet is skeptical, but Jean-Luc is certain that if he does not act immediately, the entire Federation is in jeopardy.

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson discuss the TNG novel Resistance by J.M. Dillard. We talk about the return of the Borg, the Enterprise's new Vulcan counselor, drama among the secondary characters, Picard's relationship with Locutus of Borg, the nature of the Borg Queen, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

At the top of the show, we judge the upcoming Discovery: The Enterprise War by its cover, and report on the sad news of the passing of artist Keith Birdsong. We also respond to feedback from the Babel Conference about Literary Treks 270: Kirk is Dabbing Like a Warp 4 Loony!

News
DSC: The Enterprise War Cover Review (00:02:55)
Remembering Keith Birdsong (00:07:57)
Listener Feedback (00:11:49)

Feature: Resistance
Resistance Cover Art (00:14:35)
The Borg Return (00:20:08)
Admiral Janeway (00:23:46)
Counselor T'Lana (00:30:06)
Temporary First Officer Worf (00:35:23)
Sara Nave and "Lio" Battaglia (00:40:13)
Locutus 2.0 (00:47:25)
The Borg Queen (00:55:29)
The Resolution (01:01:29)
Ratings (01:06:33)
Final Thoughts (01:11:07)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

The Captain's Oath.

Captain James T. Kirk: one of the true legends of Starfleet. Awarded command of the U.S.S. Enterprise at a very young age, Kirk made his mark on the galaxy with an impressive career commanding one of Starfleet's most prestigious vessels. But what made him the captain he would become? And how did his experience commanding smaller starships prepare him for the years spent commanding the Enterprise?

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther talk about Christopher L. Bennett's new TOS novel The Captain's Oath. As a special bonus, the author shared his thoughts with us about aspects of the novel which we will share with you! We discuss the different time periods covered in the novel, Kirk's early years as commander of the U.S.S. Sacagawea, the fascinating cast of original characters, the mysterious threat posed by the Agni, Kirk's first mission as commander of the U.S.S. Enterprise, the disparate parts of continuity referenced in The Captain's Oath, and wrap up with our final thoughts and what Christopher L. Bennett has coming soon as well as where he can be found online.

At the top of the show, we review issue #2 of Star Trek: Year Five and respond to listener feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 269: Kellogg's Spock 'n' Krisp.

News
Star Trek: Year Five #2 Comic Review (00:02:51)
Listener Feedback (00:12:57)

Feature: The Captain's Oath
Different Time Periods (00:22:02)
Kirk's Early Command (00:30:55)
The First Officers (00:44:25)
Dr. Sherev (00:50:31)
Ensign Diaz (00:54:41)
The Agni (00:56:18)
The Enterprise at Karabos II (01:04:09)
Dr. "Bones" McCoy (01:08:18)
Continuity Nods (01:09:50)
Ratings (01:12:39)
The Author's Upcoming Works (01:16:28)
Final Thoughts (01:18:19)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

The Gold Key Archives, Vol. 5: Part 2.

Weird volcano-dwelling shapeshifters! Sentient stars! The return of Lt. Uhuru! A room that makes you crazy! And Starfleet Admiral... Kahn?!? All this and more in the latest installment of our look at the wackiest corner of the Star Trek universe!

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson finish their look back at Star Trek: The Gold Key Archives, Volume 5 with the final three stories in the collection: issue 28, "The Mimicking Menace"; issue 30, "Death of a Star"; and issue 31, "The Final Truth."

At the top of the show, we review issue #4 of The Q Conflict from IDW, and respond to listener feedback from the Babel Conference for Literary Treks 268: Andy Does the Consonants, I Do the Vowels.

News
The Q Conflict #4 Comic Review (00:03:19)
Listener Feedback (00:11:01)

Feature: Gold Key Archives, Vol. 5, Part 2
The Mimicking Menace (00:15:13)
Death of a Star (00:34:08)
The Final Truth (00:57:49)
Ratings (01:14:02)
Final Thoughts (01:21:32)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

The Gold Key Archives, Vol. 5: Part 1.

It's been awhile, but it's once again time to dive into the hilarity and ridiculousness that is the Star Trek Gold Key comics! Incredible shrinking people, Japanese Samurais, and chilly red turtle people await you as we take on another round with the strangest corner of the *Star Trek* literary universe!

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther take a look at Star Trek: The Gold Key Archives Volume 5, Part 1, which includes issues 25, 26, and 27: "Dwarf Planet," "The Perfect Dream," and "Ice Journey." Make sure to pack your heat-stabilizer tablets, it's gonna be a crazy journey!

At the top of the show, we respond to listener feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 267: That Word "Sacrifice" Keeps Coming Up.

News
Listener Feedback (00:04:16)

Feature: Gold Key Archives, Vol. 5, Part 1
Gold Key Getting Better? (00:10:09)
Dwarf Planet (00:12:41)
The Perfect Dream (00:28:48)
Ice Journey (00:46:13)
Ratings (01:09:12)
Final Thoughts (01:12:57)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Michael A. Martin: The Red King.

Searching for a lost Romulan fleet, Captain Riker and the Titan are swept out of the galaxy along with Commander Donatra and the Valdore. They find themselves in the Small Magellanic Cloud, an area of space visited nearly a century earlier by another Federation starship. An long-sundered offshoot of humanity has claimed this area of space, and when reality itself is threatened by an encroaching anomaly, Riker and his crew must save these lost children of Earth before the entire region is consigned to non-existence.

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson welcome author Michael A. Martin to the show to discuss Titan: The Red King, which he co-wrote with Andy Mangels. We talk about their experience in launching the Titan series, the origin of the Neyel, Tuvok and Akaar's troubled past, Donatra and the Romulans, religious belief vs. scientific fact, where Titan goes from here, and wrap up with what Michael is working on now and where you can find him online.

At the top of the show, we review the latest Star Trek: Waypoint special issue and respond to listener feedback from the Babel Conference for Literary Treks 266: Bringing the Truth Out of the Shadows

News
Star Trek Waypoint 2019 Comic Review (00:03:46)
Listener Feedback (00:26:19)

Feature: Michael A. Martin
Launching Titan (00:31:32)
The Neyel (00:42:49)
Tuvok and Akaar (00:53:15)
Klingons and Romulans (00:58:42)
Religion is Reality (01:05:15)
The Sleeper Consequences (01:11:50)
Frane Talks to Akaar (01:16:51)
Author Collaboration (01:17:51)
A New Project and Being a Fan (01:20:48)
Final Thoughts (01:24:04)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Michael A. Martin

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Burning Dreams.

Captain Christopher Pike: until recently, there has not been much canonically revealed about the predecessor of James T. Kirk. That has all changed with season 2 of Star Trek: Discovery. However, years before Anson Mount brought the character back to life, the definitive Christopher Pike novel was written, chronicling the life of the brave Starfleet captain from his earliest years as a boy to his life spent on Talos IV with Vina under the care of the mysterious Talosians.

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther discuss the novel Burning Dreams. We talk about Christopher Pike's early years on the colony world Elysium, his relationships with his mother and the father figures in his life, the unique role that fire plays in Pike's history, his embodiment of the ideals of Starfleet and the Federation, how Pike in this novel compares to the Pike of Discovery, the epilogue of the novel, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

At the top of the show, we review the first issue of Star Trek: Year Five from IDW, and respond to your feedback from the Babel Conference about Literary Treks 265: The Music of Big Pink.

News
Star Trek: Year Five #1 Comic Review (00:03:25)
Listener Feedback (00:18:35)

Feature: Burning Dreams
Pike's Early Years (00:22:22)
The Neworlders (00:30:57)
Charlie's Relationship with Chris (00:36:40)
The Motif of Fire in Pike's Life (00:48:34)
"The Best of Us" (00:55:56)
Comparing to 'Discovery' (01:00:33)
Is Life a Dream? (01:07:27)
Vina's Backstory (01:09:38)
Pike's Love Interests (01:12:06)
The Epilogue with Spock (01:15:15)
Ratings (01:19:52)
Final Thoughts (01:22:46)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Dayton Ward: Available Light.

For the past couple of years, the post-Nemesis novels have been in a sort of limbo. Contract negotiations dragged on, and at times it felt like the next chapter of the story would never come. Thankfully, that is all behind us with the release of the newest TNG novel, picking up on plot points from Section 31: Control, the previous TNG novel Hearts and Minds, and even going as far back as the Tezwa incident in the A Time To series!

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson welcome author Dayton Ward back to the show to discuss his newest Next Generation novel, Available Light. We talk about the fallout from the end of Section 31, Picard's actions in the ousting of disgraced Federation President Min Zife, a mysterious apparent derelict hiding a technological marvel, the Jirol Salvage Guild, the importance of truth, Picard's decision at the end of the novel, the origin of the title Available Light, and wrap up with what Dayton is working on now and where you can find him online.

In the news segment, we talk about the upcoming Star Trek: Year Five series and Star Trek: Discovery: Aftermath miniseries, both from IDW. We also review issue #3 of The Q Conflict and respond to listener feedback from the Babel Conference for Literary Treks 264: No Member Berries.

News
Star Trek: Year Five Update (00:03:56)
Star Trek Discovery - Aftermath Announcement (00:07:15)
The Q Conflict #3 Comic Review (00:09:16)
Listener Feedback (00:15:24)

Feature: Dayton Ward
Writing New Star Trek (00:25:09)
The Bigger They Are... (00:30:22)
Innocent Until Proven Guilty (00:37:12)
The A Storyline (00:41:30)
The Osijemal Ship (00:45:32)
The Jirol Salvage Guild (00:56:34)
Admiral William Ross (01:02:48)
The Truth (01:08:31)
Meaning of the Title (01:17:13)
Currently Working On (01:21:16)
Final Thoughts (01:26:42)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Dayton Ward

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Keith DeCandido: Articles of the Federation.

In Star Trek, we are used to seeing mighty Federation starships exploring space and boldly going where no one has gone before. However, there is more to Federation society in the 24th century than the men and women of Starfleet: newly-elected Federation President Nan Bacco finds herself embroiled in one crisis after another as she and her administration deal with the fallout from the Tezwa affair and the surprise resignation of her predecessor. The first year of her tenure as president will be her trial by fire, and marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the United Federation of Planets.

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther welcome author Keith DeCandido back to the show to discuss his landmark novel, Articles of the Federation. We talk about The West Wing of the 24th century, linking this novel to the other novels in the literary universe, the huge cast of characters, various issues that the Bacco administration has to deal with, answer some questions listeners posted in The Babel Conference, and wrap up with what Keith is working on now and where you can find him online.

In the news segment, we announce the upcoming Star Trek: The Official Guide to the Animated Series co-written by Trek.fm's very own Aaron Harvey, and report on the tragic loss of a Star Trek literary legend, author Vonda McIntyre. We also respond to listener feedback from The Babel Conference about Literary Treks 263: Traveling at the Speed of Plot.

News
Star Trek: The Animated Series Book Revealed (00:02:50)
Remembering Vonda McIntyre (00:06:21)
Listener Feedback (00:08:49)

Feature: Keith DeCandido
The West Wing of the 24th Century (00:13:29)
Writing Federation Politics (00:22:36)
Links to the Wider Fiction (00:27:28)
Trinni/ek Food Fight (00:32:43)
A Huge Cast of Characters (00:34:20)
If 'Articles' Were Written Today (00:38:45)
Freedom of the Press Consequences (00:42:11)
Civilian Point of View (00:45:31)
Aligar Trade Renewal (00:49:47)
Ideological Differences (00:52:09)
Nan Bacco Character Influences (00:55:37)
Commencement Address (01:06:02)
Democracy is a Conversation (01:08:06)
Answering Listeners' Questions (01:09:23)
Other Projects (01:18:31)
Final Thoughts (01:29:48)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Keith DeCandido

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Taking Wing.

A new ship, a new crew, and a new mission! Captain William Riker takes command of the brand new U.S.S. Titan, and along with the most diverse crew in Starfleet history, undertakes a mission to Romulus for negotiations that will shape the future of the quadrant. A number of dangerous factions are vying for control of the Romulan Empire, and Riker and his crew are caught in the middle!

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson discuss the first novel in the Star Trek: Titan series, Taking Wing. We discuss the new ship and her diverse crew, a potential Romulan civil war, Spock's role in the novel, a surprise appearance by Tuvok, Riker's unorthodox solution to the crisis, the cliffhanger ending, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

At the top of the show, we respond to listener feedback to Literary Treks 262: We Almost Had a Spit Take from our Facebook group, The Babel Conference.

News
Listener Feedback (00:03:15)

Feature: Taking Wing
Commander Christine Vale (00:12:45)
Starfleet's Most Diverse Crew (00:20:03)
Romulan Civil War (00:36:53)
Ambassador Spock's Unification (00:42:41)
Undercover Operative (00:50:38)
Captain Riker's Solution (00:56:31)
The Cliffhanger (01:01:15)
Ratings (01:09:40)
Final Thoughts (01:13:19)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Enemy of My Enemy.

A rogue Changeling on the loose, having replaced Captain Chakotay, threatens the crew of Voyager, while the Cardassian war criminal Crell Moset performs dangerous experiments on Chakotay and his sister, Sekaya. It's up to Dr. Kaz, Harry Kim, and some help from Admiral Janeway and Tom Paris to free Voyager from the grip of forces determined to tear the crew apart.

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson are once again joined by Brandi Jackola to discuss Enemy of My Enemy. We talk about the Changeling's plan, Jarem vs. Gradik Kaz, "Super Chakotay," Tom Paris's role in the story, B'Elanna's continuing search for answers on Boreth, the conclusion to the story, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

In the news section, Bruce and Dan announce the release date for TNG: Collateral Damage by David Mack. We also review the special Star Trek: Discovery comic Captain Saru, and respond to listener feedback from the Babel Conference for Literary Treks 261: A Gem of a Novel.

News
TNG: Collateral Damage Comic Release (00:03:37)
DSC: Captain Saru Comic Review (00:06:54)
Listener Feedback (00:15:59)

Feature: Enemy of My Enemy
The Changeling's Plan (00:22:56)
A Sense of Time (00:35:12)
A Bumbling Idiot (00:39:13)
Jarem and Gradek Kaz (00:47:03)
Super Chakotay (00:53:31)
Paris Steps In (01:08:11)
B'Elanna's Search Continues (01:15:17)
Secession from the Federation (01:19:22)
Ratings (01:25:47)
Final Thoughts (01:36:01)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Brandi Jackola

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Old Wounds.

Voyager is back in the alpha quadrant and ready to take on new missions for the Federation! Under the command of newly-promoted Captain Chakotay, Voyager sets off with a group of former colonists to make contact with Loran II, their home and a former Maquis colony that has gone silent. Accompanying them on the journey is Chakotay's sister, Sekaya, who's spiritual guidance is sorely needed by the former inhabitants of Loran II, who aren't sure what Voyager will find when they reach their old home: their loved ones, safe and sound, or more bodies to add to the toll that the Dominion War took on the Alpha Quadrant.

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson are joined Brandi Jackola to discuss Old Wounds by Christie Golden. We talk about new tensions among the Voyager crew, Torres and Paris taking a side quest on Boreth, Harry and Libby's tumultuous relationship, what the rest of the old crew is up to in the Alpha Quadrant, Voyager's mission to Loran II, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

At the top of the show, Dan and Bruce review issue #2 of IDW's Star Trek: The Q Conflict, and respond to your feedback from the Babel Conference on Literary Treks 260: Sorry to All the Sela Fans.

News
The Q Conflict #2 Review (00:02:49)
Listener Feedback (00:16:55)

Feature: Old Wounds
New Tensions Among the Crew (00:26:07)
Torres and Paris on Boreth (00:36:10)
Libby and Harry (00:46:07)
The Other Former Crew Members (00:51:57)
The Trill Host of Kaz (00:56:47)
The Huanni Counselor (01:08:12)
Chakotay's Sister, Sekaya (01:11:07)
The Sky Spirits (01:17:26)
Sexualization Problem (01:21:02)
Ratings (01:28:01)
Final Thoughts (01:33:44)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Brandi Jackola

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Vulcan's Glory.

With the exception of the glimpses we see in "The Cage" and "The Menagerie," not much is known about Spock's early days aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise, or the crew that he served: Captain Christopher Pike and his stalwart first officer Number One. Now that Star Trek: Discovery is exploring this time period and these characters, we feel the time has come to look at some of the books that chronicled Pike's captaincy, starting with one authored by a true veteran of Star Trek writing.

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther talk about Vulcan's Glory, written by Original Series writer Dorothy "D.C." Fontana. We discuss the references to past Star Trek such as The Animated Series, the crew of the Enterprise under Pike's command, how well we feel this connects to Star Trek: Discovery, the historical artifact known as "Vulcan's Glory," Pike's mission to the devastated planet Areta, a mysterious murder plot aboard the Enterprise, Scotty and his engine room hooch, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

At the top of the show, Bruce and Dan review the final issue of IDW's Star Trek vs. Transformers and respond to feedback from The Babel Conference about Literary Treks 259: He's Gotta Grow Some and Just Do It.

News
Star Trek vs. Transformers #5 review (00:03:39)
Listener Feedback (00:16:09)

Feature: Vulcan's Glory
30th Anniversary (00:22:37)
Yesteryear (00:28:02)
First Pike Novel (00:33:15)
Number One of Illyria (00:36:16)
Picturing TOS and DSC (00:43:22)
Historical Artifact (00:49:01)
Family Squabbles on Areta (00:53:35)
The Hunt for Glory (01:01:59)
Spock's Love Interest (01:09:44)
Engine Room Hooch (01:14:04)
Ratings (01:18:33)
Final Thoughts (01:23:24)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Death in Winter.

Following the film Star Trek Nemesis, novels in the Star Trek literary universe were given more of a free reign to play with the familiar characters and situations, creating what has been termed the "novelverse." Without any more televised or filmed adventures for the crew of the Enterprise-E on the horizon, authors could take the story in new and exciting directions. One of these directions involved the culmination of the "will they/won't they" romance of Jean-Luc Picard and Beverly Crusher, as well as a new source of turmoil for the Romulan Empire.

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson discuss Death in Winter. We talk about Beverly's transfer off the Enterprise, the state of the Romulan Star Empire, an undercover mission into Romulan space, Worf and Geordi's role in the story, the love between Picard and Crusher, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

At the top of the show, we discuss your feedback from the Babel Conference on Literary Treks 258: Inaccurate Operas Will Be Performed of This Day!

News
Listener Feedback (00:03:36)

Feature: Death in Winter
Post-Nemesis Novels (00:10:13)
Beverly's First Assignment (00:13:34)
Sela Strikes Again (00:20:54)
The State of the Romulan Empire (00:24:34)
A Stargazer Reunion (00:31:56)
Worf and Geordi's Role (00:40:56)
Love Comes Around (00:45:45)
Ratings (00:53:22)
Final Thoughts (00:59:03)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Triangle: Imzadi II.

As Star Trek: The Next Generation drew to a close, an unlikely romance emerged: that of Worf and Deanna Troi. A Klingon warrior with a strict code of honor and a peaceful empath in touch with her feelings do not make the most obvious couple, but Worf and Troi made a go of it before the relationship ultimately disappeared. What happened between the two of them, and how did Will Riker feel about his Imzadi becoming involved with his friend and comrade?

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther are once again joined by Amy Nelson to discuss Triangle: Imzadi II. We talk about Worf's lack of luck in love, the triangle between Worf, Troi, and Riker, Romulan Commander Sela and her convoluted plan, Riker's inability to make progress with Troi, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

At the top of the show, Bruce and Dan review the first issue of The Q Conflict, a new comic miniseries from IDW, and respond to your Babel Conference feedback from Literary Treks 257: Lots of Bits of Me.

News
The Q Conflict #1 Review (00:03:29)
Listener Feedback (00:11:49)

Feature: Triangle: Imzadi II
The Sequel (00:17:20)
Worf's Lost Loves (00:20:20)
That Triangle Moment (00:30:40)
Deanna Troi's Perspective (00:40:47)
Tom Riker's Motivation (00:45:10)
It's So Peter David (00:51:31)
Sela's Series of Bungles (00:53:40)
Alexander, Jellico, and Shelby (01:01:43)
Taking His Time (01:07:09)
The Head of Worf's House (01:15:23)
Ratings (01:18:49)
Final Thoughts (01:26:59)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Amy Nelson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

A Burning House.

The voyages of the I.K.S. Gorkon have come to an end, far sooner than they should have! As the Gorkon puts into port at Qo'noS, the officers and crew return home. For some, that means a harvest festival with friends and family, and for others, it means intrigue, revelations, and deception. It's just another day in the life of a citizen of the Klingon Empire!

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson are joined by Earl Grey's Justin Oser to discuss A Burning House. We talk about life on a Klingon farm during yopta' yupma', Toq's tale of intrigue when he returns to his birthplace of Carraya IV, Rodek coming to terms with revelations about his past, B'Oraq and her attempts to bring modern medicine to the Empire, G'Joth and an opera that bears little resemblance to the truth, other bits we liked about the novel, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

At the top of the show, Dan and Bruce review Star Trek: IDW 20/20, featuring Picard's first mission as captain of the Stargazer, and respond to your Babel Conference feedback on Literary Treks 256: I Would Need More Than a Paragraph.

News
Star Trek IDW 20/20 Review (00:02:29)
Listener Feedback (00:10:24)

Feature: A Burning House
Klingon Empire Series? (00:18:32)
Wol, Kagak, Goran, and yobta' yupma' (00:22:13)
Toq - Secret Hideout (00:32:11)
Rodek - Memories of Kurn (00:38:22)
B'Oraq and the Klingon Physician (00:48:04)
G'Joth and Kennia (00:57:13)
Klingon Enclave Poetry (01:03:46)
Captain Klag (01:11:21)
Other Bits (01:15:52)
Ratings (01:23:27)
Final Thoughts (01:33:12)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Justin Oser

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Una McCormack: The Way to the Stars.

Sylvia Tilly has turned into a breakout character on the newest Star Trek series, Discovery. Sometimes awkward, sometimes silly, but always brilliant, Tilly brought a lot of humanity to Discovery's first season. But what was she like before becoming a Starfleet cadet, and what choices led her to joining Starfleet?

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther welcome author Una McCormack back to the show to discuss her latest novel, The Way to the Stars. We talk about the process of writing this novel, Tilly's relationship with her mother, her experiences in school, Tilly as a runaway, her impressions of Starfleet, the poor communication she experiences, and wrap up the discussion with where you can find Una online and what she is working on now.

In the news section, we talk about the upcoming Discovery novel The Enterprise War by John Jackson Miller, and judge the covers of two upcoming novels: The Captain's Oath by Christopher L. Bennett and The Antares Maelstrom by Greg Cox. We also talk about an upcoming comic series from IDW: TOS: Year Five, review issue #4 of Star Trek vs. Transformers, and take a look at some Babel Conference feedback on Literary Treks 255: The Hammock Planet: They Don't Have Butts.

News
Discovery: The Enterprise War (00:02:48)
TOS: The Captain's Chair Cover (00:06:00)
TOS: The Antares Maelstrom Cover (00:08:42)
TOS: Year Five from IDW in April (00:10:18)
Star Trek vs. Transformers #4 Review (00:12:49)
Listener Feedback (00:19:36)

Feature: Una McCormack
Getting Started (00:24:58)
Mothers and Daughters (00:31:17)
Keeping Friends (00:39:19)
Being a High Achiever (00:43:26)
A Runaway Tilly (00:50:28)
Your Name Matters (00:55:06)
A Starfleet Career Path (00:59:32)
Captain Yindi Holden (01:04:54)
Poor Communications (01:08:02)
Una's Favorite Novels (01:14:05)
Other Projects (01:16:16)
Final Thoughts (01:18:46)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Una McCormack

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Imzadi.

Will Riker and Deanna Troi: throughout the run of Star Trek: The Next Generation, it was clear there was a deep connection between these two characters. However, they never truly "got together" until 2002's Star Trek Nemesis. What is the history between Will and Deanna? What drew them together and made them "Imzadi"? At last we look at the story that tells the tale of TNG's greatest romance!

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson are joined by Amy Nelson of Earl Grey and The Edge to talk about Imzadi by Peter David. We discuss how we first read Imzadi, Riker's life without Deanna, Will's behavior as a young man, how Will and Deanna first got together, the Guardian of Forever, temporal shenanigans, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

At the top of the show, Dan and Bruce review the final issue in the TNG: Terra Incognita comic series and discuss your Babel Conference feedback on Literary Treks 254: A Likely Victim.

News
Terra Incognita #6 (00:03:46)
Listener Feedback (00:11:04)

Feature: Imzadi
First Time? (00:15:03)
A Life Without Deanna (00:22:18)
Impetuous Youth (00:29:37)
When They First Met (00:37:28)
Lwaxana, the Mother (00:45:42)
Jungle Love (00:53:24)
Riker Saving the Past (00:56:47)
A Touching Data (01:04:11)
The Changing Future (01:05:53)
All of the Emotions (01:10:52)
Ratings (00:16:52)
Final Thoughts (01:22:50)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Amy Nelson

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Enemy Territory.

The voyages of the I.K.S. Gorkon continue! Following the events at San-Tarah, the Gorkon must now investigate the disappearance of her brother ship, the I.K.S. Kravokh. The Kravokh had encountered a ship from a newly-discovered warp-capable species, a strange alien race that believes themselves to be the only sentient life in the universe. Now, Klag must take the Gorkon to their homeworld to confront this new threat, all while dealing with a possible uprising among his own ranks!

In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson are joined by Earl Grey's Justin Oser to talk about I.K.S. Gorkon, Book Three: Enemy Territory by Keith R.A. DeCandido. We discuss the Elabrej Hegemony, Kurak's crippling alcoholism, a mutiny forming aboard the Gorkon, Leader Wol, Rodek's identity crisis, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings.

In the news segment, we talk about a new upcoming Star Trek: Waypoint special comic and another Little Golden Book: Too Many Tribbles!

News
Waypoint Special #2 in March (00:02:52)
Too Many Tribbles! in July (00:05:16)
Listener Feedback (00:08:49)

Feature: Enemy Territory
The Elabrej Hegemony (00:12:10)
Their Society (00:21:11)
The Separatists (00:23:03)
Kurak (00:25:35)
Mutiny on the Gorkon (00:31:39)
Wol (00:43:48)
Rodek (00:50:09)
Leskit on the Cover? (00:54:51)
Ratings (00:59:28)
Final Thoughts (01:09:51)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Justin Oser

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)

Michael Jan Friedman.

Michael Jan Friedman is one of Star Trek's most prolific authors. Over the course of his association with Star Trek, Mr. Friedman has written or co-written 35 novels, a list that includes original adventures, novelizations, young adult novels, and more. Additionally, he has written 5 Star Trek short stories, 4 reference books, and close to 100 comic adventures for the various Trek crews. When it comes to Star Trek on the page, Michael Jan Friedman is a dynamo.

In this episode of Literary Treks, special correspondent Brandon Shea-Mutala catches up with Michael Jan Friedman at the Northeast Trek Con in Albany. They discuss Friedman's start in writing, how he got involved in writing Star Trek novels, the Star Trek: The Next Generation / X-Men crossover, his experience in writing Star Trek comics, the Star Trek: Stargazer series, and wrap up with what he is working on now and where listeners can find him online.

At the top of the show, Dan and Bruce review the Star Trek: Waypoint special issue and respond to your Babel Conference feedback for Literary Treks 252: Continuity Cop.

News
Waypoint Special #1 (00:02:55)
Listener Feedback (00:30:51)

Feature: Michael Jan Friedman
Getting into Writing (00:36:25)
Leading into Tie-in Fiction (00:41:51)
Collaborating with Authors (00:44:34)
Crossovers (00:45:59)
Writing Comics (00:51:37)
Novelization Challenges (00:54:32)
Stargazer Series (00:57:40)
New Writings (01:04:03)
Final Thoughts (01:06:17)

Hosts
Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson

Guest
Michael Jan Friedman

Production
Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager) Ken Tripp (Associate Producer) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Associate Producer) Justin Oser (Associate Producer) Norman C. Lao (Associate Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Jeffery Harlan (Associate Producer)