Done reading. I'd say it's 'Outstanding', as it sets the tone of 2386, which becomes obvious after reading Disavowed (S31), Armageddon's Arrow (TNG), and all the "Bashir Arc".
--- we're in a spoiler thread but still a fair warning, SPOILERS!! ---
Also, setting up a new threat is a plus, but this threat is sort-of in the sidelines but a threat at the level of the borg collective, it can be used anytime. We may not see them for the foreseeable future, after all, their space dimension still have 300 years left, but knowing there's a threat, that adds a whole new dynamic in a world without borg.
Of course, the tone. It appears that 2386 and maybe even 2387 will be revolving around the theme of clandestine operations and organisations. *cough* NSA *cough* No doubt, our new XO was forced to work for S31 just like Bashir.
What can I say? Glued. At the strike of 12mn, my local time, my ebook pre-order was downloaded and started reading immediately, just finished now. I'm also glad to see the conflict between an Will and Chris, that was something I've been 'sensing' in the other novels where Titan was involved. It finally blew up! Not once, not twice, thrice (or was that 4x?)
Yet, one cannot blame anyone because, first, we're individuals. Second, we took an oath. If you or me were in their shoes, how would we respond? This novel beautifully 'unearthed' these conflicts and loyalties. Not just for the Will and Chris, but for the other characters as well.
At the end, there was some sadness. Although, I can say it was something I was expecting already when the 'straw' draw scene first played out, I knew there's going to be another such incident. I wouldn't say it's the author's fault, as an aspie (asperger syndrome/autism spectrum), I tend to see the bigger picture and put myself in the mindset of an author. But it's sad nonetheless, I wasn't expecting 'that' character to be the one sacrificing, why a Cardassian?! You know what I mean. But I can see how this will play out in the galactic political-arena.
The humor too, had to laugh and re-read some lines because it was fun. Well done.
Now, I wonder what stories we're going to see from Titan from hereon. The "Alpha Quadrant frontier" seems interesting. That also places them nearer to the Delta-Alpha quadrant "border" -- at least, distance-wise, not literally. Not to mention, the Typhoon Pact members located deep in the AQ.
