Literary Treks: A Star Trek Books and Comics Podcast

New Earth: Rough Trails. It is out of the frying pan and into the fire for the colonists of Belle Terre as the Quake Moon situation has been resolved, yet it has left only half of the planet inhabitable, feeling more like Ceti Alpha V than the planet on the cover. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about New Earth: Rough Trails. We discuss Chekov, the romance, barbarians at the gate, no big three, a hard life, power and profit, our ratings and final thoughts. Feature: New Earth: Rough Trails Chekov's Terrible Day (00:03:54) The Romance (00:09:53) Barbarians at the Gate (00:15:15) No Big Three (00:23:59) A Hard Life (00:29:52) Power and Profit (00:38:30) Ratings (00:46:02) Final Thoughts (00:49:52) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Left Hand of Destiny: Book Two. The Empire has imploded as Morjod, backed by his mother, works to hunt down the resistance of Martok and his small band of followers so that they can remake the Klingon empire in their image. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing, Bruce Gibson and Casey Pettitt talk the final book in The Left Hand of Destiny duology. We discuss why Ezri is here, family, Klingon sickness, the enemy, a second coming our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we react to the news of a new book as well as review Mirror War #5 and Adventure in the 32nd Century #2. News Big News (00:02:20) Mirror War #5 (00:05:25) Adventures in the 32nd Century #2 (00:13:01) Feature: The Left Hand of Destiny: Book Two Why Ezri is Here (00:19:01) Family (00:27:33) Klingon Sickness (00:32:40) The Enemy (00:42:30) A Second Coming (00:48:10) Ratings (00:56:27) Hosts Matthew Rushing, Bruce Gibson and Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

New Earth: Belle Terre. It has been a long road for the colonists to get from Federation space to their new home Belle Terre and unfortunately the problems are only getting worse. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about the second book in the New Earth series, Belle Terre. We discuss how we are feeling, getting to the new world, moon problems, Bones and the science team, no good choices, one solution, runaways, the moon solution, characterization, our ratings and final thoughts. Feature: Belle Terre How We Are Feeling (00:02:30) Getting to the New World (00:07:28) Moon Problems (00:14:34) Bones and the Science Team (00:18:18) No Good Choices (00:21:00) One Solution (00:23:54) Runaways (00:31:08) Moon Solution (00:35:35) Characterization (00:44:00) Ratings (00:46:30) Final Thoughts (00:48:18) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Left Hand of Destiny: Book One. As Deep Space Nine drew to a close, Worf challenged Gowron, defeated him in honorable combat and bestowed on Martok the chancellorship of the Klingon Empire which is where actor J.G. Hertzler and author Jeffrey Lang pick up the story. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing, Bruce Gibson and Casey Pettitt talk about The Left Hand of Destiny: Book One. We discuss our first time, too much war, the problems with politics, an unexpected enemy, a symbol, things we didn't like, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news section we review the Star Trek: Discovery comic, Adventures in the 32 Century, issue 1. News Adventures in the 32nd Century #1 (00:03:09) Feature: The Left Hand of Destiny: Book One First Time (00:09:43) Too Much War (00:14:07) The Problem of Politics (00:20:23) An Unexpected Enemy (00:27:21) A Symbol (00:37:43) Things We Didn't Like (00:50:50) Ratings (00:54:09) Final Thoughts (00:57:24) Hosts Matthew Rushing, Bruce Gibson and Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

New Earth: Wagon Train to the Stars. What would make Admiral Kirk give up the desk after The Motion Picture, Diane Carey answers the question in the first book of the New Earth series, the promise of leading a colony expedition and the promise of new uniforms. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt talk about New Earth: Wagon Train to the Stars. We discuss new worlds, more freedom, greed, working together, Kirk, another war, the writing style, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we review at two new comics, Mirror War: La Forge and Star Trek: Klingons. News Mirror War: La Forge (00:02:55) Star Trek: Klingons (00:08:24) Feature: Wagon Train to the Stars New Worlds (00:13:32) More Freedom? (00:22:09) Greed (00:27:24) Working Together (00:31:39) Kirk (00:36:29) Another War (00:41:53) The Writing Story (00:44:06) Ratings (00:49:50) Final Thoughts (00:52:20) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Kirsten Beyer and Mike Johnson: No Man's Land. At the end of Star Trek: Picard's first season, fans were greeted with the surprise that Raffi and Seven seemed to be taking their relationship to the next level, so now fans are being treated to the continuation of that story in a whole new format, an audio drama! In this episode of Literary Treks host Matthew Rushing is joined by authors Kirsten Beyer and Mike Johnson to talk about Star Trek's first audio drama, No Man's Land. We discuss the format, the partnership, the relationship, what is love, the Fenris Rangers, new characters, the professor, the villain, working with Jeri and Michelle, where to find Mike and Kirsten, then wrap up with final thoughts. Feature: Kirsten Beyer and Mike Johnson The Format (00:02:57) The Partnership (00:04:04) The Relationship (00:07:06) What is Love (00:11:54) The Fenris Rangers (00:18:15) New Characters (00:21:05) The Professor (00:26:45) The Villain (00:31:35) Working With Jeri and Michelle (00:34:35) Where to Find Mike and Kirsten (00:35:05) Final Thoughts (00:36:52) Hosts Matthew Rushing Guests Kirsten Beyer Mike Johnson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Brinkmanship. The Cold War between the Khitomer Alliance and the Typhon Pact is heating up to the point that it just may become another all-out war for the Alpha and Beta quadrant powers with seemingly little to prevent it. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson are joined once again by Casey Pettitt to talk about Brinkmanship. We discuss the Cold War, trust, the Tzenkethi, recovering identity, leading ladies, last things, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we discuss the announcement of an upcoming book for 2022 from David Mack as well as the fourth issue of Mirror War. News New TOS Book Coming (00:03:21) Mirror War #4 (00:09:20) Feature: Brinkmanship The Cold War (00:17:53) Trust (00:21:50) The Tzenkethi (00:33:58) Recovering Identity (00:45:26) Leading Ladies (00:52:30) Last Things (00:56:49) Ratings (01:04:40) Final Thoughts (01:08:30) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Last Roundup. What happened to The Original Series crew after their "final" adventure in The Undiscovered Country has been the subject of a few different books throughout the years, each one giving us a new "final" hurrah for this storied crew. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson welcome back Casey Pettitt to help us talk about The Last Roundup. We discuss discovering the undiscovered, Kirk, life isn't fair, making tough choices, hate leads to suffering, Day and a Year, one more time, ratings and our final thoughts. In the news we discuss the brand new audio drama coming out, as well as judge some books by their covers and talk about The Mirror War Data and third issues. News A New Audio Drama (00:03:08) Judging Books by Their Covers (00:06:08) The Mirror War: Data and Issue 3 (00:11:58) Feature: The Last Roundup Discovering the Undiscovered (00:17:21) Kirk (00:23:16) Life Isn't Fair (00:28:43) Making Tough Choices (00:38:02) Hate Leads to Suffering (00:44:02) Day and a Year (00:50:44) One More Time (00:54:05) Ratings (00:58:27) Final Thoughts (01:01:42) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Alex White: Revenant. Jadzia Dax is one of the most complex characters from Deep Space Nine, in all of Star Trek really, which stemmed from the fact that she has had nine previous lives and these perspectives literally influenced her, every day. In this episode of Literary Treks host Matthew Rushing welcomes Alex White to talk about their first Star Trek book, Revenant. We discuss diving into the universe, Alex's Star Trek story, the book's genesis, redeeming the past, Kira and Dax, Dax and Worf, the Trill, harmony, life is hard, no Trill is an island, a final question and our final thoughts. Feature: Alex White Diving Into the Universe (00:01:53) Alex's Star Trek Story (00:03:04) The Book's Genesis (00:09:35) Redeeming the Past (00:14:49) Kira and Dax (00:18:42) Dax and Worf (00:23:15) The Trill (00:25:36) Harmony (00:33:01) Life is Hard (00:34:40) No Trill is an Island (00:40:43) A Final Question (00:46:30) Final Thoughts (00:54:48) Hosts Matthew Rushing Guest Alex White Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Star Trek: Coda. The end of the litverse has come and gone but the feelings about the series continue to ripple through fandom as they digest the way the series was brought to a conclusion. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson welcome back Casey Pettitt to help them discuss the Star Trek: Coda series. We discuss coming to the end, Moments Asunder, the threat, other things in the first book, The Ashes of Tomorrow, Deep Space Nine threads, other things in the second book, Oblivion's Gate, hope, the final product and our final thoughts. Feature: Star Trek: Coda Coming to the End (00:04:46) Moments Asunder (00:16:04) The Threat (00:26:42) Other Things in the First Book (00:32:04) The Ashes of Tomorrow (00:37:02) Deep Space Nine Threads (00:42:38) Other Things in the Second Gun (00:50:49) Oblivion's Gate (00:53:10) Hope (01:04:25) The Final Product (01:10:47) Final Thoughts (01:19:04) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

David Mack: Oblivion's Gate. Twenty years ago Pocket Books started something incredible by continuing the story of Deep Space Nine, giving fans what happened after the finale, beginning what became affectionally know as the lit-verse and would span the entirety of the 24th century of Star Trek. In this episode of Literary Treks host Matthew Rushing welcomes author David Mack to talk about the final book in the Coda series, Oblivion's Gate. We discuss how he is feeling, hopes for the series, the prelude, the Borg are back in town, the mirror universe, the Riker story, Emissary and The Hand of the Prophets, Worf's love life, Wesley, time's skeleton key, making it mean something, a question, miss writing the most, ending with Picard, David online and final thoughts. Feature: David Mack How David is Feeling (00:01:46) Hopes for the Series (00:03:07) The Prelude (00:15:05) The Borg are Back in Town (00:18:12) Bringing in the Mirror Universe (00:30:05) The Riker Story (00:35:02) Emissary and The Hand of the Prophets (00:40:42) Worf's Love Life (00:46:32) Alpha and Omega (00:52:04) Time's Skeleton Key (00:58:52) Make it Mean Something (01:04:04) Characters You Wish You Could Have Used (01:07:48) Miss Writing the Most (01:11:34) Ending With Picard (01:17:03) David Online and Final Thoughts (01:28:00) Host Matthew Rushing Guest David Mack Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Raise the Dawn. It has been a long road for the crew of DS9, many of them have been put through the fire and the station itself has paid the ultimate price, meaning there is nothing to do but pick through the rubble and move forward. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson welcome Casey Pettitt back to talk about Raise the Dawn. We discuss, Emissary no more, false wormhole, a dramatic entrance, contrast, a new station, is she evil, Odo, another cliffhanger, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news section we talk about the release of the final book in the Coda series. News Oblivion's Gate Release (00:04:38) Feature: Raise the Dawn Emissary No More (00:07:43) False Wormhole (00:25:04) Dramatic Entrance (00:32:49) Contrast (00:32:49) A New Station (00:37:27) Is She Evil? (00:52:45) Odo (00:56:02) Another Cliffhanger (00:59:07) Ratings (01:04:00) Final Thoughts (01:09:35) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Plagues of Night. As the Typhon Pact series has progressed it has been clear that the crew of Deep Space Nine has jumped in time to make it concurrent to where the rest of the Star Trek universe is, so it is time to fill in the gaps. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson talk about Plagues of Night. We discuss Sisko's story, different ways, filling in a lot of gaps, plans within plans, characters in flux, the end of Deep Space Nine, Kira far beyond the stars, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we review the second issue of the Mirror War comic series. News Mirror War #2 (00:02:46) Feature: Plagues of Night Sisko's Story (00:09:32) Different Ways (00:19:29) Filling in a Lot of Gaps (00:21:03) Plans Within Plans (00:27:00) Bashir (00:34:33) Prynn (00:39:24) The End of Deep Space Nine (00:42:35) Kira Far Beyond the Stars (00:47:24) Ratings (00:49:40) Final Thoughts (00:51:19) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

James Swallow: The Ashes of Tomorrow. Time is of the essence for the literary universe of Star Trek and there are hard choices for the characters to make that will see them pitted against friends and thrust into the most desperate situations of their lives. In this episode of Literary Treks host Matthew Rushing is joined by author James Swallow to talk about his middle portion of the Coda trilogy, The Ashes of Tomorrow. We discuss how James is feeling, tying in DS9, Sisko and Kira, Bashir, Miles, Ro, Quark and Nog, Picard's next generation, artificial intelligence, the fire in which we burn, shadows, Worf's moment, prophecy fulfilled, wrapping up dangling threads, final thoughts and where to find James online. Feature: James Swallow How James is Feeling (00:02:34) Tying in DS9 (00:04:37) Sisko and Kira (00:08:40) Bashir (00:17:41) Miles (00:23:33) Ro, Quark and Nog (00:26:54) Picard's Next Generation (00:32:17) Artificial Intelligence (00:40:32) The Fire in Which We Burn (00:46:05) Shadows (00:55:03) Worf's Moment (01:00:33) Prophecy Fulfilled (01:05:46) Wrapping Up Dangling Treads (01:09:54) Final Thoughts (01:18:19) James Online (01:23:54) Hosts Matthew Rushing Guest James Swallow Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Struggle Within. The Federation continues to deal with the fallout of the Borg invasion as well as the recent secession of Andor, which is leading the Federation to look for allies to join the Khitomer Accords anywhere they can find them. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson are joined by Casey Pettitt to talk about the next book in the Typhon Pact series, The Struggle Within. We discuss it being an ebook only, picking up the pieces, just listen, looking for balance, nonviolence, just another group, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news section of the show we review issue number one in the Mirror War comic. News Mirror War #1 (00:03:58) Feature: The Struggle Within Ebook Only (00:15:59) Picking Up the Pieces (00:21:34) Just Listen (00:27:54) Looking for Balance (00:32:18) Nonviolence (00:41:02) Just Another Group (00:44:29) Ratings (00:50:13) Final Thoughts (00:53:34) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Dayton Ward: Moments Asunder. It affectionately became known as the Lit-Verse to Star Trek fans, beginning in 2003, with the release of the first novel to take place after the finale of Deep Space Nine in a book called Avatar. After the end of Enterprise, the universe in the novels would continue to expand with unprecedented freedom to explore the characters lives past the finales of each of the shows and now that Star Trek: Picard has begun, it's time for this iteration of the universe to find its way into continuity. In this episode of Literary Treks host Matthew Rushing is joined by author Dayton Ward to talk about his first book in the Star Trek: Coda series, Moments Asunder. We discuss, the end being near, batting order, collaboration, setting it all up, the villains, complete consumption, loose ends, Wesley, Picard's lineage, who's happy, who lives/who dies, early plans, open doors, how Dayton is feeling, where to find him online and our final thoughts. In the news section Bruce Gibson joins Matthew to discuss the zero issue of Mirror War as well as the finale to Year Five. News Mirror War #0 (00:02:57) Year Five, the Final Issue (00:08:54) Feature: Dayton Ward The End is Near (00:14:56) Batting Order (00:26:48) Collaboration (00:29:16) Setting it All Up (00:30:20) The Villains (00:34:18) Complete Consumption (00:38:46) Loose Ends (00:41:07) Redeeming Wesley (00:44:23) Picard's Lineage (00:49:51) Who's Happy (00:58:32) Who Lives, Who Dies (01:00:41) Early Plans (01:06:50) Open Doors (01:08:06) How Dayton is Feeling (01:11:55) Dayton Online (01:14:26) Final Thoughts (01:20:22) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Dayton Ward Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Recovery. The lost years for Kirk, Spock and McCoy have been eventful yet the fabric of the universe seems to be finding way to weave them back together as the time of The Motion Picture draws ever nearer. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson welcome Casey Pettitt to help them talk about Recovery. We discuss, coming to the final book, Kirk, Spock, the Recovery, the Tholians, setting up The Motion Picture, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we talk about the release of Star Trek: Coda: Moments Asunder as well as the future for Star Trek literature. News Begun the Coda Has! (00:02:35) Feature: Recovery Coming Into the Final Book (00:06:48) Kirk (00:11:15) Spock (00:22:34) The Recovery (00:26:15) The Tholians (00:37:56) Setting Up The Motion Picture (00:43:46) Ratings (00:48:04) Final Thoughts (00:53:57) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest Casey Pettitt Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Fallen Gods. The fallout of the Andorian secession from the Federation reverberates clear across the quadrants as the U.S.S. Titan's Andorian members find themselves facing a difficult choice, go home to Andor to help repopulate the species or be placed in a less sensitive posting in Starfleet. LIn this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson talk about the Titan novel, Fallen Gods. We discuss political separation, fear, Ta'ith, One One Six, the Andorian/Tholian plan, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we review the penultimate issue of Year Five, #24. News Year Five, Issue 24 (00:03:06) Feature: Fallen Gods Political Separation (00:19:21) Fear (00:26:33) Ta'ith (00:34:05) One One Six (00:43:26) The Andorian/Tholian Plan (00:50:19) Ratings (00:56:51) Final Thoughts (01:00:26) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

John Jackson Miller: Rogue Elements. Star Trek: Picard has give fans a lot of new characters whose backstories have not fully been revealed which has given the books many stories to tell! In this episode of Literary Treks host Matthew Rushing is joined by author John Jackson Miller to talk about his latest book, Rogue Elements. We discuss the inspiration, the Iotians, Ledger, the final frontier, writing Rios, the holographic doppelgängers, undiscovered connections, Parch, physical media, what is important, further connections, where to find John online and our final thoughts. In the news section of the show, Bruce Gibson helps Matthew break down the final cover for the Coda series! News Oblivion's Gate Cover (00:02:20) Feature: John Jackson Miller Inspiration (00:07:19) The Iotians (00:20:22) Ledger (00:26:29) On the Final Frontier (00:33:48) Writing Rios (00:36:16) The Holographic Doppelgängers (00:45:09) Undiscovered Connections (00:50:57) Parch (00:58:12) Physical Media (01:08:16) What is Important (01:15:41) Further Connections (01:18:34) Find John Online (01:28:28) Final Thoughts (01:32:51) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Guest John Jackson Miller Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer)

Traitor Winds. The Lost Years series has been filling in the gaps between the end of the five year mission for the Enterprise and the next appearance of the character in The Motion Picture, but before we get the final book, there is one that slots in just before, A Flag Full of Stars. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson talk about the "third" book in The Lost Years series, Traitor Winds. We discuss continuity, focusing on other characters, earth in this time period, the plot, something different, doesn't quite come together, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news we remind everyone that Rogue Elements, the next book in the Picard series is out on August 17th! News Rogue Elements Release (00:01:42) Feature: Traitor Winds Continuity (00:06:29) Focusing on Other Characters (00:10:50) Earth of This Time Period (00:20:02) The Plot (00:27:39) Something Different (00:35:33) Doesn't Quite Come Together (00:41:18) Ratings (00:44:18) Final Thoughts (00:48:48) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Cassandra Rose Clarke: Shadows Have Offended. For the longest time, Star Trek books were written inside the years of each series and with the litverse coming to an end, the books are going to be returning to that format. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Christopher Jones are joined by Cassandra Rose Clarke to talk about her debut Star Trek novel, Shadows Have Offended. We discuss her Star Trek story, writing a Star Trek book, the genesis, Troi and Worf, Crusher, Picard, the unexpected, the Betazoids, links with DS9, dreamweavers, feeling like an episode, the experience, Cassandra online and our final thoughts. In the news section Bruce Gibson joins Matthew to talk about issues 22 and 23 of the Year Five comic as well as judge the first two covers of the Coda trilogy. News Issue 22 (00:03:00) Issue 23 (00:13:19) Coda Covers (00:23:30) Feature: Cassandra Rose Clarke Cassandra's Star Trek Story (00:31:53) Writing a Star Trek Book (00:40:25) The Genesis of the Story (00:42:46) Troi and Worf (00:45:46) Crusher Focus (00:50:28) Picard Focus (00:52:07) The Unexpected (00:54:20) The Betazoids (00:55:54) Links With DS9 (01:02:35) Dreamweavers (01:05:24) Feels Like an Episode (01:14:41) The Experience (01:19:21) Cassandra Online (01:21:51) Final Thoughts (01:25:44) Hosts Matthew Rushing, C Bryan Jones and Bruce Gibson Guest Cassandra Rose Clarke Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Paths of Disharmony. It has been few years since the Borg's final attack, yet planets are still reeling, facing supply problems, struggling to meet the most basic needs in ways they haven't for over a century and on top of all this the Andorian people are dealing with a reproductive crisis that could mean annihilation for their species if they cannot find a cure. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson continue the Typhon Pact series with Paths of Disharmony. We discuss character work, the blame game, saving civilization, connecting to Vanguard, on their heels, leaving the Federation, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news section we review the 21st issue of the Year 5 series. News Year 5, #21 (00:03:01) Feature: Paths of Disharmony Character Work (00:11:43) The Blame Game (00:21:07) Saving Civilization (00:31:45) Connecting to Vanguard (00:38:04) On Their Heels (00:43:03) Leaving the Federation (00:46:10) Ratings (00:49:32) Final Thoughts (00:54:35) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Living Memory. The period is Star Trek history between The Motion Picture and the Wrath of Khan is ripe for exploration, thankfully in Christopher L. Bennett's latest novel, that is exactly where the story takes place. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Chris Jones talk about Living Memory. We discuss Uhura's history, connections, the Warborn, more than one book, what is Starfleet?, understanding, progress, our ratings and final thoughts. Feature: Living Memory Uhura's History (00:04:23) Connections (00:15:25) The Warborn (00:18:22) More Than One Book (00:27:04) What is Starfleet? (00:32:13) Understanding (00:36:50) Progress (00:40:25) Ratings (00:45:52) Final Thoughts (00:49:20) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

A Flag Full of Stars. As the Lost Years series continues, we pick up the story about 8-12 months from where we left off and there have been a lot of changes in the life of James T. Kirk. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson talk about A Flag Full of Stars. We discuss Kirk's life, Riley and Kirk, overcoming prejudice, overcoming fear, the space shuttle, the news, last few things, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news section we discuss the upcoming IDW comic series Star Trek: The Mirror War. News Star Trek: The Mirror War (00:03:13) Feature: A Flag Full of Stars Kirk's Life (00:09:08) Riley and Kirk (00:18:02) Overcoming Prejudice (00:25:09) Overcoming Fear (00:32:24) Space Shuttle (00:37:56) The News (00:45:05) Last Few Things (00:48:42) Ratings (00:50:08) Final Thoughts (00:54:50) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Seize the Fire. The Gorn have found themselves in a bad way after the Borg attack, one of their biggest fleets decimated and if that wasn't bad enough, their best hatchery planet for their strongest warriors has just been destroyed by a natural disaster. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson continue the Typhon Pact series with Seize the Fire. We discuss the Gorn, to keep or destroy, undercover Starfleet, too much going on?, the Titan crew, diversity, evolution, constructive feedback, our ratings and final thoughts. Feature: Seize the Fire The Gorn (00:04:23) Keep or Destroy (00:15:37) Undercover Starfleet (00:20:26) Too Much Going On? (00:24:11) The Titan Crew (00:28:29) Diversity (00:31:41) Evolution (00:39:01) Constructive Feedback (00:41:26) Ratings (00:44:46) Final Thoughts (00:47:35) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Rough Beasts of Empire. The Typhon Pact hammers out their agreement to formalize relations between six interstellar nations, yet one of the member is still divided into two empires, leaving the Romulans feeling inadequate in comparison to their fellow members. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson talk about Rough Beasts of Empire. We discuss creating the Typhon Pact, Romulan reunification, Sisko, flashbacks, our ratings and final thoughts. Feature: Rough Beasts of Empire Creating the Typhon Pact (00:04:54) Romulan Reunification (00:11:02) Sisko (00:24:29) Flashbacks (00:39:43) Ratings (00:46:29) Final Thoughts (00:49:11) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Lost Years. The end of the five year mission for the crew of the Enterprise would bring many changes by the time fans saw them again in The Motion Picture and filling in those gaps between the two was a question for years. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson talk about The Lost Years. We discuss our first readings, filling in the gaps, Kirk, Spock, McCoy, crazy Vulcans, our ratings and final thoughts. In the news section we review the latest issue of Year Five, #20. News Issue #20 (00:03:39) Feature: The Lost Years Read Before (00:12:41) Filling in the Gaps (00:15:16) Kirk (00:18:55) Spock (00:28:25) McCoy (00:40:49) Crazy Vulcans (00:47:37) Ratings (00:53:54) Final Thoughts (00:58:05) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Debt of Honor. James T. Kirk has lost a lot following the events of The Voyage Home and the one that weighs on him is the debt of honor he feels he owes the Enterprise herself, to reclaim her name in the eyes of the Starfleet. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Chris Jones talk about the comic Debt of Honor. We discuss the art, the framing device, the flashbacks, the present story, the Klingon power shift, losing a son but gaining a daughter, the wrap up, our ratings and final thoughts. Feature: Debt of Honor The Art (00:02:07) The Framing Device (00:05:58) On the Farragut (00:12:31) After the Doomsday Incident (00:25:54) After the Motion Picture (00:33:59) The Present Takes Over (00:41:10) Klingon Power Shift (00:45:00) Lost a Son but Gained a Daughter (00:49:10) The Wrap Up (00:52:05) Ratings (00:58:52) Final Thoughts (01:00:33) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Zero Sum Game. In the wake of the Dominion War and the Borg invasion he Romulans, Breen, Tholians, Gorn, Tzenkethi, and the Kinshaya have joined forces in a twisted version of the Federation to combat the latest Khitomer Accords Alliance between United Federation of Planets, Klingon Empire, Cardassian Union, and Ferengi Alliance. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson discuss David Mack's Zero Sum Game. We discuss a cold war, Bashir, Ezri and Sarina, spy morality, the Breen, the Aventine crew, anything we missed, our ratings and final thoughts. In the new we talk about the big changes to the 2021 release schedule, the Star Trek: Coda trilogy, the last book of the year's blurb and our review of Year Five #19. News Release Schedule Change (00:02:49) Star Trek: Coda Trilogy (00:09:57) The December Book (00:19:00) Year Five #19 (00:21:11) Feature: Zero Sum Game A Cold War (00:27:28) Bashir and Ezri (00:34:39) Bashir and Sarina (00:39:51) Spy Morality (00:42:58) The Breen (00:44:59) The Aventine Crew (00:55:49) Anything We Missed (01:00:54) Ratings (01:05:12) Final Thoughts (01:08:38) Hosts Matthew Rushing and Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Synthesis. The Titan crew find themselves confronting one of their deepest fears which have only been accentuated by their recent experience with the Borg invasion, will they be able to over come and save the universe from extinction? In this episode of Literary Treks host Matthew Rushing is joined by Bruce Gibson, who returns to the show to continue the 24th century novels with Synthesis. We discuss where the Titan is, AI, valid points the Sentries, pride and prejudice, unintended consequences, the Null, ratings and final thoughts. In the news section Chris Jones joins Matthew to wrap up the Seven's Reckoning series with it's fourth and final issue. News Seven's Reckoning #4 (00:02:08) Feature: Synthesis Welcome Back Bruce (00:13:51) Where the Titan Is (00:16:12) AI (00:16:59) Valid Points (00:25:25) The Sentries (00:27:11) Pride and Prejudice (00:36:27) Unintended Consequences (00:49:04) The Null (00:53:32) Ratings (00:58:28) Final Thoughts (01:00:58) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Guest Bruce Gibson Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Too Long a Sacrifice. In the middle of the Dominion War, DS9 suffers a bombing on the Promenade at one of the restaurants, as well as a rash of murders that puts a big trade deal in jeopardy which could have dire consequences on the war effort for Starfleet. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones discuss the comic series Too Long a Sacrifice. We discuss the art for the comic, all four of the issues and give our ratings. In the news section we talk about the upcoming comic releases and have an announcement you'll want to tune in for! News Upcoming Comics (00:03:33) An Announcement! (00:05:42) Feature: Too Long a Sacrifice The Art (00:07:37) Issue 1 (00:13:14) Issue 2 (00:23:05) Issue 3 (00:37:00) Issue 4 (00:53:21) Ratings (01:01:13) Final Thoughts (01:04:31) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

James Swallow: The Dark Veil. With the end of the first season of Star Trek Picard, there were still a lot of questions about what happened in those years between Star Trek Nemesis and the first episode of the series, especially with regards to Riker and his command of the Titan. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones welcome James Swallow to talk about his new book, The Dark Veil. We discuss the Titan in canon, the Riker, writing Thad, fear, Picard and a different response, twisted truth, the Jazari, AI, learning from the past, a cameo, what's next for James and our final thoughts. In the news section we review some comics, Seven's Reckoning #3 and Year Five #18. News Seven's Reckoning #3 (00:03:08) Year Five #18 (00:09:51) Feature: James Swallow The Titan in Canon (00:16:37) Troi and Riker (00:24:06) Writing Thad (00:27:48) Fear (00:33:05) Picard's Part and Different Responses (00:38:52) Twisted Truth (00:47:20) The Jazari (00:53:04) AI (01:03:05) Learning From the Past (01:06:58) A Cameo (01:14:38) What's Next for James (01:23:41) Final Thoughts (01:26:56) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Guest James Swallow Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Una McCormack: The Autobiography of Kathryn Janeway Kathryn Janeway is known for her strength, drive, dedication, and nurturing nature. But how did her childhood and early career shape the woman who led her crew back from the Delta Quadrant, against all odds? In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones are joined by Kathryn's ghostwriter—also know as Una McCormack—to find out how parents, grandparents, and even that pesky little sister, helped a young girl from Indiana become one of Starfleet's most decorated admirals. We also discuss the important role that mentors play in our lives and how the Federation–Cardassian Wars influenced Janeway and those growing up in Starfleet families during the 24th century. In our news segment, we review the first two issues of the Star Trek: Voyager IDW comic miniseries Seven's Reckoning. Chapters Intro (00:00:00) Star Trek Voyager: Seven's Reckoning, Issues 1–2 (00:03:14) Feature: The Autobiography of Kathryn Janeway (00:16:41) Origin of the Project (00:17:51) Creating Kathryn's Childhood (00:19:45) Father–Daughter Relationship (00:25:51) Choosing the Stories that Inspire (00:35:28) The Role of Mentors (00:42:15) Cardassian Backdrop (00:48:08) Workforce and Janeway's Desires (00:56:30) A Nurturing Nature (01:01:59) Mars! Mars! Mars! (01:07:00) Closing (01:13:34) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Guest Una McCormack Production C Bryan Jones (Editor and Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Greg Cox: A Contest of Principles. The crew of the Enterprise face a challenge unlike any other when when they are called to a system with three different inhabited planets and are asked to observe a contentious election on the only planet in the system the Federation has a relationship with. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones welcome Greg Cox back to the show to talk about his book A Contest of Principles. We discuss keeping it fresh, the ethics of news, story genesis, part of the story, responsibility, re-litigating the past, finding out something new, does the right thing, working with new Trek, what Greg has coming up and where to find him online. In the news section we judge a book by it's cover, look at the recent as well as upcoming releases for 2021, then review the Year 5 comic issues 15 and 16. News Judge a Book by it's Cover (00:01:33) Upcoming Releases (00:05:03) Recent Releases (00:06:07) Year 5 Issues 15 and 16 Review (00:07:06) Feature: Greg Cox Keeping it Fresh (00:14:58) The Ethics of News (00:23:20) Story Genesis (00:26:59) Part of the Story (00:31:34) Responsibility (00:35:27) Re-litigating the Past (00:40:39) Finding Out Something New (00:50:06) Does the Right Thing (00:56:07) Working in New Trek (00:59:10) What's Next for Greg (01:04:50) Greg Online (01:06:49) Final Thoughts (01:09:12) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Guest Greg Cox Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Kirsten Beyer: To Lose the Earth. In March of 2009, author Kirsten Beyer became the captain of the Voyager books and since that time has captivated readers but bring depth and life to a crew in the most astounding ways. In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Christopher Jones are joined by Kirsten to discuss what could be her final Voyager novel, To Lose the Earth. We discuss the book coming together, breaking our hearts, love you to, drive my car, holographic species, a yellow submarine, let it be, the end, audio book narration, what Kirsten is up to and where to find her as well as our final thoughts. In our news section we discuss new releases, upcoming books as well as review Year Five issues 13 and 14 as well as the one shot, Hell's Mirror. News New Releases and Upcoming Books (00:01:44) Year Five Issues 13 and 14 (00:03:25) Hell's Mirror (00:20:32) Feature: Kirsten Beyer Come Together (00:32:37) Spoiler Warning (00:32:37) Broke My Heart With Harry (00:37:25) Love You To (00:45:41) Drive My Car (00:56:35) Holographic Species (01:05:57) Yellow Submarine (01:11:13) Let it Be (01:17:53) The End (01:23:28) Author and Narrator (01:34:08) What Kirsten is Doing and Where to Find Her (01:41:02) Final Thoughts (01:50:05) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Guest Kirsten Beyer Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Fearful Summons. There have been a few books that have brought the crew of the Enterprise back together after the events of The Undiscovered Country, but there is only one that was written by the co-writer of Star Trek VI itself! In this episode of Literary Treks hosts Matthew Rushing and Chris Jones talk about The Fearful Summons by Denny Martin Flinn. We discuss a captain captured, the Beta Promethians, Starfleet bias, the dolpheels and peace, the crew in retirement, secretly being supported by Starfleet and our ratings. In the news section we announce our upcoming review schedule for the most recent comics that have been released. News Upcoming Comic Reviews (00:02:23) Feature: The Fearful Summons Captain Captured (00:04:49) The Beta Promethians (00:09:55) Starfleet Bias (00:21:25) The Dolpheels and Peace (00:25:03) Kirk in Retirement (00:30:46) Spock the Actor (00:40:27) The Others (00:47:10) Secretly Supported by Starfleet (00:49:56) Ratings (00:57:52) Final Thoughts (01:01:29) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

David Mack: More Beautiful Than Death. J.J. Abrams' Star Trek came out of the gate like a race horse, giving us a new take on the Original Series characters, in a new universe that allowed the creative team at Bad Robot the freedom to take them where they wanted. It was also meant to be a time to forge new boundaries for the literary treks, yet sadly it would take ten years for the books to see publication. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones welcome David Mack back to the show to talk about his book More Beautiful Than Death. We discuss the long publication history, changes to the book, the audiobook market, writing the Kelvin Timeline, themes from the book, the Akiron, disasters, fear and where to find David online and what he has coming up next. In the news section we look at the new Voyager comic Seven's Reckoning that is coming from IDW and our plans for covering the DS9 comic, Too Long A Sacrifice. News Seven's Reckoning Comic (00:01:42) Too Long A Sacrifice Plan (00:05:19) Feature: David Mack It's Been a Long Road (00:06:48) Changes to the Book (00:09:53) The Audiobook Market (00:14:53) Writing the Kelvin Timeline (00:20:44) Doing What is Right (00:32:25) Belief (00:37:24) The Needs of the Many (00:47:09) The Twist (00:54:21) The Akiron (01:00:31) Cultural Impact of Disaster (01:02:07) The Things Fear Causes (01:08:39) What is Next and Where to Find David (01:15:58) Final Thoughts (01:19:31) Hosts Matthew Rushing and C Bryan Jones Guest David Mack Production Matthew Rushing (Editor and Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Greg Rozier (Associate Producer) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Over a Torrent Sea. In the aftermath of the devastating events of the Destiny trilogy, the Starship Titan is once again assigned to deep space exploration beyond the farthest borders of the Federation. Investigating an oceanic world of abundant and mysterious life, the crew unwittingly causes distress to the ecosystem and to the lives of the inhabitants of the world, nicknamed Droplet. Now, Captain Riker and Ensign Lavena, cut off from the rest of the crew, must convince their captors of their sincere desire to help the people of Droplet before the damage becomes irreparable. In their final episode as hosts of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther discuss the Star Trek: Titan novel Over a Torrent Sea by Christopher L. Bennett. They talk about Titan's new mission, the Squales of Droplet, Ensign Aili Lavena and her past, a difficult maternal situation for Deanna Troi, the unintended consequences of the crew's decisions, atonement for past mistakes, and wrap up with their final thoughts and ratings. At the top of the show, Bruce and Dan review the first issue in IDW's new Deep Space Nine miniseries, Too Long a Sacrifice. News DS9: Too Long A Sacrifice Comic Review (00:06:03) Feature: Over a Torrent Sea Deep Space Mission (00:19:57) Droplet and the Squales (00:24:36) Aili Lavena (00:28:16) Sexual Rendezvous (00:32:06) Far Off Delivery Ward (00:38:22) Unintended Consequences (00:48:06) Atonement (00:53:53) Ratings (01:04:56) Final Thoughts (01:16:36) 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) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

John Jackson Miller: Die Standing. Philippa Georgiou, former Emperor of the Terran Empire in the Mirror Universe, has found herself in our universe and under the watchful eye of Section 31. Believing that she has knowledge and skills useful to the organization, she is recruited to take on a mission into a mysterious region of space known as the Troika. However, she has her own agenda. Will Georgiou make good on her desire to rebuild all she has lost in our universe? In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson are joined once again by New York Times bestselling author John Jackson Miller to talk about his most recent Discovery novel, Die Standing. We talk about Philippa Georgiou Augustus Iaponius Centarius, Section 31, a familiar face from The Original Series, a Trill gymnast named Emony Dax, a vampiric cloud creature, the mysterious Troika and the three species that comprise it, and wrap up with what John is working on now and where he can be found online. At the top of the show, Dan and Bruce review issue #12 of Star Trek: Year Five, and respond to listener feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 306: There's Shag Carpet on This Ship Somewhere. News Star Trek Year Five #12 Review (00:03:05) Listener Feedback (00:18:04)) Feature: John Jackson Miller Emperor Philippa Georgiou (00:23:57) Section 31 (00:46:03) Finnegan (00:50:06) Emony Dax (00:54:55) Quintilian and the Cloud (01:00:57) Completely Alien Aliens (01:13:31) Captain Eagan (01:19:20) The Cascade (01:20:16) The Final Journey (01:24:30) Discovery Season 3 Trailer (01:31:51) The Book Title (01:36:36) Kenobi (01:39:44) Evolving Star Trek (01:42:54) More From JJM (01:45:45) Final Thoughts (01:50:24) Hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson Guest John Jackson Miller Production Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Dayton Ward: Agents of Influence. When the extraction of undercover agents from the Klingon Empire goes disastrously wrong, it's up to Captain Kirk and the crew of the Enterprise to come to the rescue. The U.S.S. Endeavour, crashed on the surface of an asteroid, must hold out against Klingon reprisal and Orion attacks long enough to ensure they deliver their valuable passengers safely back to Federation space. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther are joined once again by author Dayton Ward to discuss his newest Original Series novel, Agents of Influence. We talk about the undercover agents at the center of this story, the U.S.S. Endeavour and her crew, the Klingon/Orion alliance, an unorthodox "ground assault" on a starship, Klingons and Humans coming to an understanding, a spy among Starfleet's ranks, and wrap up with what Dayton is working on now and where he can be found online. At the top of the show, Bruce and Dan talk about their decision to move on from Literary Treks and where they will be continuing the Star Trek book and comics discussion in the future. We also respond to listener feedback from The Babel Conference for the previous episode, Literary Treks 305: The Nacene Scenes. News Changes to Literary Treks (00:03:12) Listener Feedback (00:08:55) Feature: Dayton Ward The Premise (00:13:17) Secret Agents (00:16:53) U.S.S. Endeavour (00:23:01) The Lirin (00:31:00) Orions and the Klingons (00:33:32) Bridging the Gap (00:35:57) Ground Assault (00:43:13) Dampening Field (00:46:35) The Dreamline (00:47:59) Who Done It (00:50:16) The Original Crew (00:54:59) More From Dayton (01:01:24) Final Thoughts (01:03:39) 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) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

String Theory, Book 3: Evolution. After incalculable losses, the crew of the U.S.S. Voyager continue to battle against the forces of "Phoebe Janeway" and her army of exiles, determined to re-enter Exosia. The effects of the conflict among the Nacene threaten to spill beyond the boundaries of the Monorhan system. The very underpinning of the universe threatens to unravel thanks to the actions of the exiled Nacene, and only Voyager stands in their way! In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson discuss the third and final book in the String Theory trilogy: Evolution by Heather Jarman. We talk about Tom & Harry's adventure in the Q Continuum, The Doctor's mission to Ocampa's past, the final showdown on Voyager, Janeway's absence in this novel, the plot elements that set us up for Voyager's future, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings. At the top of the show, we judge the upcoming More Beautiful Than Death by David Mack by its cover, review issue #11 of Star Trek: Year Five, and respond to feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 304: Vulcans Do Not Cry. News 'More Beautiful Than Death' Details (00:02:20) New Star Trek Comics Schedule (00:10:39) Star Trek Year Five #11 Review (00:12:17) Listener Feedback (00:23:59) Feature: String Theory: Evolution Tom and Harry's Big Adventure (00:27:14) The Doctor's Quantum Leap (00:39:11) Showdown on Voyager (00:49:38) Lack of Janeway (00:54:49) Setting up for Season 5 (01:02:42) Ratings (01:09:08) Final Thoughts (01:14:29) 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) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

String Theory: Fusion. As Voyager continues her exploration of the Monorhan star system, they encounter a vast array orbiting a black home. Tuvok, having been compelled to board the array, has come under the influence of a mysterious alien lifeform. Meanwhile, a powerful being in the guise of Captain Janeway's sister, Phoebe, carries out her sinister agenda aboard Voyager. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther discuss the second book in the String Theory trilogy, Fusion by Kirsten Beyer. We talk about Tuvok's journey, the mysterious array, the fourteenth tribe of Monorha and their role in the events unfolding, Phoebe Janeway, and the cliffhanger ending, wrapping up with our final thoughts and ratings. At the top of the show, we discuss the results of a recent poll in our Goodreads group, review the classic DS9 comic Blood & Honor written by Mark Lenard, and respond to listener feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 303: A Pair of Legs in Sickbay. News Post-Series Novels Poll (00:04:08) DS9 - Blood & Honor Comic Review (00:06:31) Listener Feedback (00:22:27) Feature: String Theory: Fusion Tuvok's Music (00:29:16) The Array (00:32:47) The Fourteenth Tribe (00:36:23) Phoebe Janeway (00:39:00) Kol-ut-shan for Tuvok (00:46:09) Exosia (00:54:22) Cliffhanger Ending (00:58:11) Ratings (01:01:38) Final Thoughts (01:06:59) 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) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

String Theory: Cohesion. During its seven-year journey through the Delta Quadrant, the U.S.S. Voyager has encountered many strange phenomena and spatial anomalies. Among the strangest turns out to be an impossible binary star system, home to a people who should not be able to survive there. When the crew comes to the aid of the Monorhans, they discover that their desire to help may be outweighed by the terrible risks presented by this strange region of space. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson discuss String Theory: Cohesion by Jeffrey Lang. We talk about the unique setting of the novel, the strange star system, the Monorhans, the effects of the strange radiation in the system, Seven and B'Elanna Torres's contentious relationship, the Key to Gramadia, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings. In the news segment, we talk about the upcoming Voyager: To Lose the Earth by Kirsten Beyer. We also respond to feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 302: What If A.I. Becomes Mommy? News VGR: 'To Lose the Earth' Cover (00:04:42) Listener Feedback (00:10:47) Feature: String Theory: Cohesion The Setting (00:15:52) An Odd System... (00:21:55) A Refugee Ship (00:25:02) The Monorhans (00:33:30) Radiation Craziness (00:38:13) Sem's Motivation (00:42:12) The Seven-B'Elanna Collective (00:47:40) The Key to Gremadia (00:59:26) Next Time on Voyager… (01:04:55) Ratings (01:07:55) Final Thoughts (01:10:47) 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) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Alan Dean Foster: The Unsettling Stars. The J.J. Abrams film Star Trek was released over a decade ago now, and as expected, novels featuring the new "Kelvin Timeline" crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise were solicited. Four novels were originally scheduled, but none of them were released... until now! Newly-minted Captain James T. Kirk leads the Enterprise on a rescue mission to save a ship of refugees. Settling them on a nearby planet, all seems well. However, the refugees and their new neighbors are soon at odds for what seems to be the strangest of reasons. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson & Dan Gunther welcome legendary author Alan Dean Foster to the show to discuss his new novel, The Unsettling Stars. We talk about the long path to publication for this novel, the experience of writing the alternate Trek characters, the two major alien races in the novel, the unique problem presented by the Perenoreans, Alan Dean Foster's contributions to the legacy of Star Trek, and wrap up with what he is working on now and where he can be found online. At the top of the show, we report on the newly-released cover for the newest Star Trek Little Golden Book. We also review a DS9 comic, "The Rules of Diplomacy," written by Aron Eisenberg, Nog himself! And finally, we discuss listener feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 301: Sing a Song of Sixpence. News Star Trek Alphabet Book Cover (00:03:23) DS9: The Rules of Diplomacy Comic Review (00:06:04) Listener Feedback (00:15:32) Feature: Alan Dean Foster Kicking Off the Kelvin Timeline (00:18:56) Writing the Alternate Characters (00:24:14) The Perenoreans and the SiBor (00:30:36) Being Too Helpful (00:36:25) No Flaws, Then No Drama (00:39:19) Making People Think (00:44:09) Identifying With Aliens (00:47:22) Contributions to Star Trek (00:51:45) More From Alan (01:00:09) Final Thoughts (01:03:08) Hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson Guest Alan Dean Foster Production Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Seven of Nine. In Star Trek: Voyager's fourth season, a new character was introduced: Seven of Nine, a former Borg drone liberated from the Collective by Captain Janeway and her crew. Played by Jeri Ryan, the character was an immediate hit, so it only makes sense that the character would eventually be introduced into the Voyager tie-in novels being published at the time. In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson welcome Suzanne Williamson to the show to discuss the Voyager novel Seven of Nine by Christie Golden. We talk about capitalizing on a new character, Annika Hansen and Seven's memories, the significance of the ravens, the Skedans and their vendetta against Emperor Beytek, ties to the wider lit-verse, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings. In the news segment, we discuss the delays in the publication of Trek comics thanks to COVID-19. We also respond to feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 300: Miss Cleo's Just a Spectre! News IDW Comics COVID-19 (00:02:56) Listener Feedback (00:08:19) Feature: Seven of Nine First Time Read? (00:13:33) Capitalizing on a New Character (00:17:05) Insights into Seven of Nine (00:20:14) Her Memories and Pathways (00:25:38) The Black Birds (00:36:28) The Skedans' Weapon (00:42:48) Poor Harry and Chakotay (00:49:10) Tom and B'Elanna (00:54:49) Ties to the Wider Lit-verse (00:56:52) Emperor Beytek and Xanarit (00:58:57) Ratings (01:01:21) Final Thoughts (01:07:47) Hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson Guest Suzanne Williamson Production Bruce Gibson (Editor and Producer) Dan Gunther (Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Higher Frontier. Mysterious armored warriors have reduced the Aenar population to nearly zero. Captain James T. Kirk and the crew of the Enterprise must investigate this brutal and seemingly unprovoked attack with the help of Miranda Jones and the Medusan ambassador, Kollos. However, the situation escalates when the targets of the mysterious attackers expands to include other telepaths, including members of the Enterprise crew. Can the mystery surrounding these dangerous warriors be solved before more lives are lost? In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther discuss the new TOS novel The Higher Frontier by Christopher L. Bennett. We talk about Commander Thelin and the Aenar, the "New Humans," a sequel to "Is There in Truth No Beauty?," the war between the Spectres and the Lords, parallels to hate groups here on Earth, ending the novel on a hopeful note, some fun references from the author, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings. In the news segment, we talk about the recently announced TOS novel, A Contest of Principles by Greg Cox. We also respond to listener feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 299: We Need a Kick in Our Complacency. News TOS: A Contest of Principles Synopsis (00:05:45) Listener Feedback (00:09:23) Feature: The Higher Frontier The Aenar and Thelin (00:16:19) New Humans (00:24:16) Is There in Truth No Beauty? (00:30:16) The Spectres and Lords (00:34:53) V'Ger (00:41:22) Hate Groups (00:44:15) T'Nalae and the V'tosh ka'tur (00:51:53) Ending on a Hopeful Note (00:54:53) Admiral Morrow (00:57:35) Starfleet: The Enterprise Chronicles (00:59:37) Ratings (01:05:37) The Crew's New Positions (01:09:44) Final Thoughts (01:13:08) 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) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Losing the Peace. The Federation has won the war. The Borg, once humanity's most lethal enemy, are gone forever. However, new challenges arise as the people of the Federation deal with the aftermath of the greatest, most unimaginable loss of life, leading to the displacement of countless Federation citizens. Will Starfleet have won the war only to lose the peace they've struggled so valiantly for? In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther are joined by The Edge's Brandi Jackola to talk about Losing the Peace by William Leisner. We talk about Crusher's role in the story including flashbacks to her past, the refugee situation on Pacifica, Chen and Taurik's grief, Choudhury's journey, the grim reminder to listen to our better angels, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings. At the top of the show, we discuss the newly-revealed cover of *Agents of Influence* by Dayton Ward and respond to listener feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 298: Utopia is a Series of Choices. News Agents of Influence Cover (00:02:16) Listener Feedback (00:07:08) Feature: Losing the Peace Having Not Read the Books Before (00:13:47) Starting at Chateau Picard (00:18:58) Beverly Helping Others Selflessly (00:23:52) Refugees on Pacifica (00:31:27) Chen and Taurik's Grief (00:40:25) Choudhury Coming to Terms (00:45:55) Listen to our Better Angels (00:51:45) Kadohata and Her Family (00:56:55) Captain Hernandez Reference (00:59:54) Ratings (01:01:02) Final Thoughts (01:09:30) 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) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Una McCormack: The Last Best Hope. Since the debut of Star Trek: Picard earlier this year, fans have been enjoying the continued adventures of Jean-Luc Picard as he delves into the mystery of Dahj and Soji, the android daughters of his former shipmate, Lt. Commander Data. However, many things have changed since Star Trek Nemesis and the year in which Picard is set. How did we get from there to here? In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson welcome Una McCormack, author of Picard: The Last Best Hope to the show. We discuss the process of writing the novel, the social issues it deals with, the threat of the breakup of the Federation, the research led by Dr. Amal Safadi, the crew of Picard's new ship, the Verity, the revenge of the synths, a melancholy ending, and wrap up with what Una is currently working on and where she can be found online. In the news segment, we judge the upcoming Star Trek: Discovery: Die Standing by its cover and back-cover blurb, and report on the pending sale of Simon & Schuster. We also respond to feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 297: A Palm Punch with No Follow Through. News DIS: Die Standing Cover (00:02:57) ViacomCBS Selling Simon & Schuster (00:06:39) Listener Feedback (00:10:09) Feature: Una McCormack The Process (00:12:21) Social Issues (00:21:30) Federation Secession (00:26:21) Critical Findings Remain Secret (00:32:10) Admiral Picard (00:41:37) A Melancholy Ending (00:46:27) U.S.S. Verity Crew (00:52:40) Revenge of the Synths (00:57:03) Close to Canon (01:02:51) Hollow Men and More (01:04:57) Final Thoughts (01:08:17) 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) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

Dayton Ward: Kirk Fu Manual. Starfleet has always been an organization dedicated to the peaceful exploration of space. However, Starfleet officers have to be able to defend themselves against the threats that the final frontier throws at them. To that end, Starfleet trains its officers in a variety of hand-to-hand combat skills. An expert wielder of these martial arts is Captain James T. Kirk, who has not only mastered these skills, but also has developed some of his own unique techniques of dealing with aggressive alien threats! In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Bruce Gibson and Dan Gunther welcome Dayton Ward back to the show to talk about his book Kirk Fu Manual: A Guide to Starfleet's Most Feared Martial Art. We discuss where the idea for the book came from, Dayton's process of writing it, the fantastic artwork, Dayton's favorite Kirk Fu moves, where our listeners can find the book, and wrap up with where Dayton can be found online and what he is currently working on. At the top of the show, we talk about the recently announced DS9 comic miniseries Too Long a Sacrifice from IDW and review Star Trek: Year Five #10. News DS9: Too Long a Sacrifice Miniseries (00:03:50) Star Trek Year Five #10 Comic Review (00:06:31) Feature: Dayton Ward The Book Idea (00:19:49) Writing the Book (00:24:39) Favorite Kirk Moves (00:27:31) The Artwork (00:31:18) Promoting the Book (00:38:11) Where Available (00:41:48) More From Dayton (00:44:21) Star Trek Never Ends (00:48:34) Final Thoughts (00:57:52) 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) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)

The Battle of Betazed. At the height of the Dominion War, the peaceful world of Betazed was invaded by the Jem'Hadar and the Cardassians in pursuit of their goal of control over the Alpha Quadrant. With Starfleet stretched thin, the Betazoid Resistance comes up with a desperate plan to turn their power of telepathy against the occupying forces. However, the use of their talents in the goal of killing may change the face of the peace-loving Betazoid culture forever... In this episode of Literary Treks, hosts Dan Gunther and Bruce Gibson are joined by Earl Grey's Amy Nelson to discuss the TNG novel The Battle of Betazed by Charlotte Douglas & Susan Kearney. We talk about the criminal Hent Tevren, killing with telepathy, Dr. Crell Moset, DS9's contributions to the mission, Troi's command abilities, the fateful choice facing the people of Betazed, and wrap up with our final thoughts and ratings. In the news segment, we report on four new upcoming novels from Simon & Schuster. We also review the Star Trek: Year 5 Valentine's Day special issue and respond to feedback from The Babel Conference for Literary Treks 294: Walls Behind Walls Behind Walls. News Agents of Influence Blurb (00:03:07) Other New Releases (00:05:08) ST: Year Five Valentine's Special (00:08:12) Listener Feedback (00:22:18) Feature: The Battle of Betazed Initial Thoughts (00:24:47) Hent Tevren (00:33:06) Killing Me Softly (00:40:32) Crell Moset (00:51:02) Lemec and Luaran (00:57:50) DS9 Representation (01:00:27) Deanna Troi's Mission (01:07:50) Violations on Troi (01:12:56) Amy's Math Moment (01:20:00) Ratings (01:23:49) Final Thoughts (01:34:44) 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) 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) Casey Pettitt (Associate Producer)