I.K.S. Gorkon, Book Three: Enemy Territory

Title: Star Trek: I.K.S. Gorkon, Book Three Enemy Territory
Author: Keith R.A. DeCandido
Release Date: March 2005
Format: Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 0-4165-0014-6

Through the years, we have seen plenty of Klingon characters in the novels, sometimes as allies of the Federation, more often as villains. What sets this unique literary series apart is that it allows the reader to experience an entirely Klingon perspective of the Star Trek universe. The newest and third novel in the I.K.S. Gorkon series, Enemy Territory, sets itself even further apart from the crowd by the author Keith R.A. DeCandido's creation of an alien species that is truly alien.

While exploring the uncharted Kavrot Sector, the I.K.S. Gorkon learns that an alien vessel has fired their brother ship, the I.K.S. Kravokh. When the Kravokh fails to report after it sets off to survey the alien's point of origin the Gorkon investigates and discovers a massive alien fleet gathering. Captain Klag must determine what has happened to the Kravokh, and who this new enemy of the empire is even as he faces a potential mutiny within his own ranks.

Keith DeCandido employs a straightforward and simple method in Enemy Territory. He gets your attention, piques your interest and hooks you lock, stock and barrel. By intentionally failing to immediately provide a full physical description of the Elabrej DeCandido tantalizes the reader with plenty of hints and keeps you guessing for quite some time.

The rigid oligarchy of the Elabrej Hegemony is so wonderfully rendered, and the unique Klingon reactions to the situation so entertaining that it is very easy to overlook how familiar many of the plot elements are in Enemy Territory. DeCandido pays close attention to the details and provides multiple points of view throughout, allowing you to see all sides of the conflict and the potential repercussions.

The ongoing development of the regular characters in this series has been excellent and Enemy Territory doesn't disappoint in that respect. The handling of Chief Engineer Kurak's alcoholism and depression is wonderful and although the rehashing of Leader Wol's background borders on the tiresome, the interaction between the various colorful characters more than makes up for that minor annoyance.

Bottom line: Enemy Territory is an quick, action packed read distinguished by a high level of invention that provides an atmospheric and engaging story.

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