Who else is irritated by Prologues and Epilogues? Especially when there is talk of somebody recently dying - it kind of takes a lot away from a good read. But in this case, we are talking about a VERY good read. I just kinda wish it wasn't the gay character who was killed.
Now I am not giving much away - a quick read of the first few pages will give you an insight into the world of Lieutenant Sean Liam Hawk, half Martian. Reading further, there are encouraging and supportive words from Riker who is looking forward to celebrating Hawk’s second anniversary of his relationship with his male partner. All very nice. There are some particularly tender moments, particularly after Hawk’s death.
Despite its small faults, it is ultimately a rip roaring tale involving a potential civil war on a planet called Chiaros IV, espionage, murder and intrigue both within and outside the Federation and lots of swashbuckling fun all around. There is also a large dose of the often intriguing long-held friendships of Captain Picard - two of his “oldest friends” are key protagonists and are both involved in not-so-above-board activities on behalf of the Federation.
The book acts as prelude to their ultimate battle against the Borg for the fate of Earth. The novel’s title, Section 31, refers to a group, an autonomous and secret arm of the Federation, that according to one of its members, exists to protect the Federation from the dangers which threaten its existence. Without the moral constraints of the Federation, this ‘rogue’ group remains silent and elusive and, we gather, effective. Its members are covertly recruited for the “greater good of the Federation”.
I wanted Hawk to be a hero and, in some ways, he was. He is tempted by Section 31 and agonises over the ethical issues about his possible role in this group. He saves Picard’s life in one of those swashbuckling episodes -- and that is always an indication of a hero. But there is the ultimate disappointment in that they killed off Star Trek's first ever openly gay character, making me feel that perhaps the book wasn’t worth the trip. Such a feeling is unworthy of Star Trek.