Although I still enjoyed it, this is the weakest entry in the series so far. I just couldn't get into the plot the way I had in the previous two entries. If you're a lore nerd, particularly TNG, you'll probably get something out of it though. The characters are great, and I like to see characters like Jaza Najem, Aili Lavena, and Dr. Ree getting more importance. Heck, Ree is even on the cover!

I would recommend watching TNG episode 'Encounter at Farpoint' again before reading this. You will appreciate the story more if that episode is fresh in your mind.