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Easily the best of the classic Trek novels that I've read so far. Excellent characterization of all the main characters (something in which many of the Trek novels stumble in, as much as they try), and the exploration into the Romulan culture through t'Rlailiiu's character is fascinating. Looking forward to reading more of Duane's books in the Rihannsu series.
Continuing what she began in [b:My Enemy, My Ally|176543|My Enemy, My Ally (Star Trek, #18)(Rihannsu Book 1)|Diane Duane|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1172442847s/176543.jpg|74442], [a:Diane Duane|11761|Diane Duane|http://www.goodreads.com/images/nophoto/nophoto-F-50x66.jpg] does an incredible job fleshing out the backstory of the Rihannsu -- more commonly known in the Federation as the Romulans. The framing story surrounding the historical data isn't as impressive, and is more of your average enjoyable-but-not-mindblowing Star Trek adventure, it's really the chapters of Duane's exploration of Romulan history and culture that makes the book stand out.
My 5-star rating may be slightly biased due to [my family's inclusion in the book:][1:]. That said, it's a wonderful collection of those wonderful, funny photos that every family has.
[1:]: http://www.michaelhanscom.com/eclecticism/2010/06/23/my-famous-awkward-family/
[1:]: http://www.michaelhanscom.com/eclecticism/2010/06/23/my-famous-awkward-family/
(December 2023) According to my reading history, I read this 13 years ago. I have no memory of this, even while reading it this time; and after reading it, I’m not terribly surprised that I don’t remember it. Not that it’s bad, it’s just…not really my thing, I guess? I’ve enjoyed urban fantasy, and noir, and noir urban fantasy, so I don’t think it’s the parts, but they’re not summing up as well as they have in other books I’ve read. It was entertaining enough that I’ll likely read at least another one or two in the series to see how it progresses; this is a first book, after all, and the series has gone on long enough and has enough fans that there’s a chance I’ll find later installments more engaging.
A very interesting concept marred by clumsy writing (far too much reliance on sexuality-as-characterization rather than actual believable characterization) and a somewhat unimpressive ending.
