Re: TF: The Poisoned Chalice by James Swallow Review Thread (Spoilers!
I'm still into the thick of the novel but its rating as outstanding is pretty secure. However, I'm reserving my final judgement until finishing it.
The plot is a fast-paced political thriller and lives from the morality of its characters. Practically every major character has to make a stand and choose between right and rules. The ongoing thread of suspense is only matched by A Ceremony of Losses.
However, it isn't 'just' the plot that engages me so and increases my heartbeat, its the smoothless integration of Trek lore. It is a STAR TREK novel: Characters use state-of-the-art technology, inspiring technology; long-lost familiar faces return - including Xelatians, Bynars, Suliban, Magna Romanii; the Challenger is referenced and there's a wealth of minutiae that makes the universe familiar through and through. It feels familiar, in a good way. I'm amazed.
I wonder whether the Lahit doctor attended Starfleet Academy? To learn more about his species would be interesting.
Ishan wasn't a happy about it one being upstage by the Andorians.
