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Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: The Left Hand of Destiny #1
The Left Hand of Destiny: Book One
"The Klingon Empire is dying...and I think it deserves to die." With those words, Lieutenant Ezri Dax propelled Lieutenant Commander Worf to the most fateful decision of his life -- to vanquish Klingon leader Gowron in honorable combat and install in his place a low-born, one-eyed soldier of the empire who might lead their people back to the path of honor.
Under the weighty mantle of chancellor, General Martok led the forces of the empire to victory in the final Allied assault against the Dominion. Now, with Worf at his side as the newly appointed Federation ambassador to Qo'noS, Martok at last is coming home, bringing with him the hope of a bright new future for his people.
But the new chancellor's triumphant return to the Klingon homeworld is met by treachery and upheaval. As the demons of the general's past rise up, so too does a usurper to the Imperial Throne, one who knows exactly how to crush Martok and all who stand with him -- and who won't be satisfied until they are ashes under the foundation of a new Klingon Empire.
Under the weighty mantle of chancellor, General Martok led the forces of the empire to victory in the final Allied assault against the Dominion. Now, with Worf at his side as the newly appointed Federation ambassador to Qo'noS, Martok at last is coming home, bringing with him the hope of a bright new future for his people.
But the new chancellor's triumphant return to the Klingon homeworld is met by treachery and upheaval. As the demons of the general's past rise up, so too does a usurper to the Imperial Throne, one who knows exactly how to crush Martok and all who stand with him -- and who won't be satisfied until they are ashes under the foundation of a new Klingon Empire.
291 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 1, 2003
52 people are currently reading
575 people want to read
About the author
J.G. Hertzler
4 books10 followersJohn Garman "J.G." Hertzler is an American actor, well known in the Star Trek community for his role on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (DS9) as the Klingon General (and later Chancellor) Martok. He is presently a Resident Professional Teaching Associate at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
December 21, 2020
The Hobbit but with Klingons. So, like The Hobbit, but good.
Also there's an existential Ferengi. Pharh, my son.
Also there's an existential Ferengi. Pharh, my son.
August 6, 2014
Disclaimer #1: Star Trek… exists in its own continuum of quality. Some might say a particular work of Star Trek might be ‘poor’ by most standards yet ‘good’ by the standards of Star Trek. The opposite can be said as well, in that the new Star Trek reboot films are ‘good’ by most standards and yet poor by Star Trek standards.
Disclaimer #2: I have met one of these authors personally, and I delighted in their company. I have reviewed authors I know previously, and I do my best to be honest.
Deep Space 9, to me, was by far and wide the best Star Trek has ever offered. Perhaps it is because in the franchise’s nearly 50 year run, it was the Star Trek of MY generation and it reflected MY political and ethical conflicts. Either way, it was a great show and it left several threads unbound by the time it finished its run. Left Hand of Destiny addresses these threads with a final tale that feels like a fresh two-parter episode that is both fulfilling and fun, especially by Star Trek standards.
I’ve always felt that the Klingons were a blend of Russian and Viking culture, allowing Star Trek the Next Generation to emulate a fascinating analogous tele-play regarding the Cold War. Here we see that the Klingons are still the same, but since their civilization has grown so vestigial and bogged down in its perceived traditions, it can barely function. Akin to the Tea-Party and other anti-growth and anti-intellectual political factions, a radical fascist Klingon movement strikes just as Martok is accepting the Chancellor’s robes.
If the words ‘radical fascist Klingon’ made your eyebrows shoot up, just stop this review and go read the book. Trust me, it delivers.
This Star Trek story doesn't reside in Rodenberry’s ‘utopia’ box, but it is instead part political commentary and part swashbuckler. The writing style reflects this as well, in that nearly everything is personified. Star ships buck and quake under the feet of the crew, blades bite, and disruptors snarl. The verbs here deliver action and hazard and throughout the entire story Martok and his weary drag themselves through assault after assault until they can finally deliver counter blow after counter blow. It is a war by attrition, and nothing is left uncharred. There are some fantastic set pieces here including cities built of trash and frozen plains filled with white-out combat conditions between two armies. The real standout set piece involves Ezri trying to dislodge an item from the hide of a comet while a ship to ship battle is happening just over her head. It’s an awesome scene, and I doubt the show could ever pull off anything like this given technological and budgetary constrictions.
Speaking of Ezri, if you felt the TV show just didn’t have the time to explore her character, this book makes intentions of doing so. Characters like Sirella, Kor, Kahless, and most of all Alexander are delved into and fleshed out in considerable fashion but the real standout character here is the Ferengi, Pharh. Any scene with either he or Alexander were compelling and grounded, and they made a perfect offset for characters that were larger-than life such as Sirella and Kahless.
The novel enters guns blazing, and aside from a considerable lull in the beginning of book four that stumbles in regards to pacing, it is a quick read. Take note that I mentioned ‘novel’ in that you cannot read book one without reading book two and vise versa. These works might as well be one volume, but much like Noble House they appear split for the sake of readership convenience.
A great, fun read. It is a very fulfilling end-cap for Deep Space 9’s characters, especially those that got too little light during the show’s run. Both of these authors delivered us a dark, Klingon tale that felt strangely politically relevant and demanding.
Disclaimer #2: I have met one of these authors personally, and I delighted in their company. I have reviewed authors I know previously, and I do my best to be honest.
Deep Space 9, to me, was by far and wide the best Star Trek has ever offered. Perhaps it is because in the franchise’s nearly 50 year run, it was the Star Trek of MY generation and it reflected MY political and ethical conflicts. Either way, it was a great show and it left several threads unbound by the time it finished its run. Left Hand of Destiny addresses these threads with a final tale that feels like a fresh two-parter episode that is both fulfilling and fun, especially by Star Trek standards.
I’ve always felt that the Klingons were a blend of Russian and Viking culture, allowing Star Trek the Next Generation to emulate a fascinating analogous tele-play regarding the Cold War. Here we see that the Klingons are still the same, but since their civilization has grown so vestigial and bogged down in its perceived traditions, it can barely function. Akin to the Tea-Party and other anti-growth and anti-intellectual political factions, a radical fascist Klingon movement strikes just as Martok is accepting the Chancellor’s robes.
If the words ‘radical fascist Klingon’ made your eyebrows shoot up, just stop this review and go read the book. Trust me, it delivers.
This Star Trek story doesn't reside in Rodenberry’s ‘utopia’ box, but it is instead part political commentary and part swashbuckler. The writing style reflects this as well, in that nearly everything is personified. Star ships buck and quake under the feet of the crew, blades bite, and disruptors snarl. The verbs here deliver action and hazard and throughout the entire story Martok and his weary drag themselves through assault after assault until they can finally deliver counter blow after counter blow. It is a war by attrition, and nothing is left uncharred. There are some fantastic set pieces here including cities built of trash and frozen plains filled with white-out combat conditions between two armies. The real standout set piece involves Ezri trying to dislodge an item from the hide of a comet while a ship to ship battle is happening just over her head. It’s an awesome scene, and I doubt the show could ever pull off anything like this given technological and budgetary constrictions.
Speaking of Ezri, if you felt the TV show just didn’t have the time to explore her character, this book makes intentions of doing so. Characters like Sirella, Kor, Kahless, and most of all Alexander are delved into and fleshed out in considerable fashion but the real standout character here is the Ferengi, Pharh. Any scene with either he or Alexander were compelling and grounded, and they made a perfect offset for characters that were larger-than life such as Sirella and Kahless.
The novel enters guns blazing, and aside from a considerable lull in the beginning of book four that stumbles in regards to pacing, it is a quick read. Take note that I mentioned ‘novel’ in that you cannot read book one without reading book two and vise versa. These works might as well be one volume, but much like Noble House they appear split for the sake of readership convenience.
A great, fun read. It is a very fulfilling end-cap for Deep Space 9’s characters, especially those that got too little light during the show’s run. Both of these authors delivered us a dark, Klingon tale that felt strangely politically relevant and demanding.
August 6, 2018
I have watched the entire Deep Space 9 series a couple of times. It was by far my favorite series out of all that Star Trek has offered. It was gritty, dark, and not afraid to show the horrible side of the future. Deep Space Nine also gave us a larger look at Klingon culture that The Next Generation had set up. Worf and Martok were two of my favorite characters in the series. So to read a book that expands on what happens to them after the events of DS9's finale was a no brainer. I had to read it.
The Left Hand of Destiny delivers on all fronts. It never fails to enthrall with each twist and turn of the plot. And there are twists! You will not be disappointed by what is thrown at Martok throughout this story. The poor guy just can not catch a break. Ever since Worf gave him the Chancellor's mantle his life has been one event after another. And that is what makes this book shine.
You also get to meet Sirella again. Her character gets a full fleshing here. Hearing her thoughts give you a better understanding of why she is so tough and stern. Even Worf's son Alexander gets his time to shine. Oh and Pharh the Ferengi, he is great. Not quite Quark, but I can't wait to see what happens to him in book two.
If you are like me and loved DS9 then this book will definitely be worth your time to read. Now I just need to find a copy of book two!
The Left Hand of Destiny delivers on all fronts. It never fails to enthrall with each twist and turn of the plot. And there are twists! You will not be disappointed by what is thrown at Martok throughout this story. The poor guy just can not catch a break. Ever since Worf gave him the Chancellor's mantle his life has been one event after another. And that is what makes this book shine.
You also get to meet Sirella again. Her character gets a full fleshing here. Hearing her thoughts give you a better understanding of why she is so tough and stern. Even Worf's son Alexander gets his time to shine. Oh and Pharh the Ferengi, he is great. Not quite Quark, but I can't wait to see what happens to him in book two.
If you are like me and loved DS9 then this book will definitely be worth your time to read. Now I just need to find a copy of book two!
February 11, 2021
Absolutely stunning. This story is an epic and will have many glorious songs written to honour its memory. Martok is definitely my favourite Klingon and I could feel his presence in this tale.
Left Hand of Destiny builds impressively on the Klingon culture developed through both TNG and DS9. There's a fantastic cast and they're all in perfect character. All of the new characters were distinctly fascinating too.
I'm not always the biggest fan of Klingon stories and I certainly don't speak the language. Often books about Klingons, Romulans or Vulcans throw in heaps of the strangely punctuated native language and I appreciated that this book didn't really go there.
Maybe it's because this is only part one of two but it didn't have the classic Starfleet fairytale type of ending (which I also enjoy). The problems and the solutions presented in this story are all very Klingon in nature.
Left Hand of Destiny builds impressively on the Klingon culture developed through both TNG and DS9. There's a fantastic cast and they're all in perfect character. All of the new characters were distinctly fascinating too.
I'm not always the biggest fan of Klingon stories and I certainly don't speak the language. Often books about Klingons, Romulans or Vulcans throw in heaps of the strangely punctuated native language and I appreciated that this book didn't really go there.
Maybe it's because this is only part one of two but it didn't have the classic Starfleet fairytale type of ending (which I also enjoy). The problems and the solutions presented in this story are all very Klingon in nature.
March 24, 2016
Great Klingon centred story- interested in where book 2 goes
August 17, 2021
THE LEFT HAND OF DESTINY is a retelling of Arthurian myth with the Klingons. Martok suffers a wild and unexpected coup attempt that results in the death of the High Council as well as the lion's share of his supporters. Worf decides to help Martok regain his throne but Martok is more interested in rescuing his wife.
Unfortunately, the usurpers have a close relationship to him that he doesn't even suspect. I found the surprising star of this book to be Pharh the Ferengi who has taken up work on Kronos and found more fulfillment there than in the pursuit of profit. If you liked KLINGON EMPIRE by Keith R.A. DeCandido and the politics of Medieval Houses in the future then this will probably be up your alley.
FOR KAHLESS!
Unfortunately, the usurpers have a close relationship to him that he doesn't even suspect. I found the surprising star of this book to be Pharh the Ferengi who has taken up work on Kronos and found more fulfillment there than in the pursuit of profit. If you liked KLINGON EMPIRE by Keith R.A. DeCandido and the politics of Medieval Houses in the future then this will probably be up your alley.
FOR KAHLESS!
January 10, 2021
exciting! read this aloud before bed, which was maybe a mistake, because Klingons required VOLUME and PASSION. my only critique is: needs more Worf. also beware this is more like the first half of a single book.
November 14, 2014
When I first read the DS9 relaunch novels back in the early 2000s, I recall The Left Hand of Destiny as one of the highlights. Upon re-reading, the story did not disappoint. This epic, sweeping tale of the challenges faced by Chancellor Martok shortly after the end of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine is a wonderful adventure, full of incredible action, great character moments, and the sort of grand storytelling one might expect in a cinematic Shakespearean drama. The story itself is incredibly well-written, and the insights into Martok's character provided by J.G. Hertzler make you realize that this actor truly understood the heart of the character.
Full review: http://treklit.blogspot.com/2014/11/L...
Full review: http://treklit.blogspot.com/2014/11/L...
August 4, 2018
As someone who is not a big fan of Klingon culture/storylines (shocking, I know!), I was expecting to not like this book. Going in, I did not realize that the author is the same person who portrayed my favorite Klingon in the Star Trek series. I was pleasantly surprised to really enjoy the story, particularly to have it told from the perspective of Martok. The book was well-written, engaging, and provided I nice break from the Mission: Gamma storyline.
May 29, 2025
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine 01 The Left Hand of Destiny, Book One by J.G. Hertzler
challenging dark emotional informative inspiring reflective sad tense
Medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters are a main focus? Yes
4.0 Stars
This is obviously a Klingon centric story. The inner workings of Chancelor Martok (and his family), Ambassador Worf, Kahless II against an old enemy (and now traitor to the Klingon Empire.
Love the back and forth (dialogues between these two enemies), but also the altercations and betrayals that actually DO occur. Being prisoners and freeing those who are imprisoned. This is a great story. Kept me on the edge of my seat (our couch) as I was enthrawled while reading.
I've never been a big fan of the Ferengi, but Deep Space Nine (DS9) has provided a worthy character in Pharm. I love his struggles, but I also love his adaptability...that he goes through.
Lastly, I love how Ezri Dax is progressing in her journey to being the best that she can be, while growing accustomed to her life with her symbiont. Look forward to her life (which I've read in later novels), and how she got there.
Next book on the docket is the Left Hand of Destiney, Book II (by the same authors). Coming soon.
challenging dark emotional informative inspiring reflective sad tense
Medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters are a main focus? Yes
4.0 Stars
This is obviously a Klingon centric story. The inner workings of Chancelor Martok (and his family), Ambassador Worf, Kahless II against an old enemy (and now traitor to the Klingon Empire.
Love the back and forth (dialogues between these two enemies), but also the altercations and betrayals that actually DO occur. Being prisoners and freeing those who are imprisoned. This is a great story. Kept me on the edge of my seat (our couch) as I was enthrawled while reading.
I've never been a big fan of the Ferengi, but Deep Space Nine (DS9) has provided a worthy character in Pharm. I love his struggles, but I also love his adaptability...that he goes through.
Lastly, I love how Ezri Dax is progressing in her journey to being the best that she can be, while growing accustomed to her life with her symbiont. Look forward to her life (which I've read in later novels), and how she got there.
Next book on the docket is the Left Hand of Destiney, Book II (by the same authors). Coming soon.
August 6, 2024
An incredibly dense epic...there is so much going on here, it threatens to collapse under its own weight...but it doesn't. It builds on so much that was established in DS9, and it makes for a satisfying first follow-up to the post finale timeline. You can't go into this cold to be truly satisfied...but long term DS9 and Klingon fans will love every minute of this...and I'm looking forward to the concluding volume.
July 18, 2019
Hoo boy Klingons are my jam
January 17, 2013
The Left Hand of Destiny Book One by J.G. Hertzler and Jeffery Lang was a fantastic book if you love Klingons. The book is well balanced between action, plot, and character depth.
I’m unapologetic lover of Klingons. When I went to the Vancouver Star Trek Convention, the thing I was looking forward to the Breakfast with the Klingons the most. While on the outside I was all calm, on the inside the little girl in me would have thrown my autograph book on my head with glee just as my sister did when she met Mickey at a Breakfast with the Disney Characters on her first trip to Walt Disney World. It was my chance to meet J.G. Hertzler (General Martok) and Robert O’Reilly (Chancellor Gowron). They were so much fun. They were in character and out of character. My photo with them is one of my favorite photos to look at on a bad day (the other ones include when my friend and I went to a Flyers game together and one with my dad when we went to NYC). So I was excited to see that J.G. Hertzler had a couple books on my eReader when I was recently going through the library. I knew right then and there I would have to read them quickly. Admittedly, I had somewhat low expectations on J.G.’s ability to write a book. I just didn’t know what to expect since he’s an actor but I was so pleased by what I read. It really showed me how much he really knew his character on the show. Plus what added was magnificent.
In a nutshell, the book is about how General Martok had to deal with the biggest struggle of ruling the Klingon Empire. Sorry it’s the title I have for him, I know it’s Chancellor Martok since Worf killed Gowron and passed the power on to Martok prior to the book starting (since this book starts right after the last episode of DS9). Old habits die hard and besides the general is still struggling with the transition from general to Chancellor. On the day of the big ceremony really giving power to the General as Chancellor of the Klingon Empire, Morjod attacked the Great Hall and usurped the position. Plus to make matters worse, Morjod takes Sirella hostage and threatens public execution of her. So Martok is lead by not only a desire to save his own honor, he wants to save his wife.
Great themes and action in the book. I didn’t want to put it down at times. Like the Hunger Games, it’s plot driven. Plus this had a hint of a Arthurian legend to it. I love the grandeur of Klingon honor, the presence of a madwoman who has vast amounts of power (possibly mystical power), and saga itself.
But the thing that really stood out, was how well JG really knows the Klingon characters he put into the book. I got to hear the voices perfectly and even could envision every act. I loved how he expounded on Sirella’s character. You can see why Martok gets that little gleam in his eye when talking about Sirella in passing on DS9. Plus he even got Alexander right. That’s a difficult Klingon to work with when you compare the small boy from TNG to the awkward Klingon soldier that showed up on DS9. He nailed Martok. But when you portray that character in 27 episodes and then decide to write a book about the same character, that should be a given. I relished how the reader got to see the relationship between Martok and Worf where you got to see the little things that would annoy the General and yet he admired his brother.
The one thing that drove me nuts was the ending. It was so good and I was so enthralled and then it ended with a cliff hanger. I hate cliff hangers. So much so, if I know a show like DS9, Eureka or Doctor Who has one, I will just wait for the second episode to air and just watch the two episodes together. Thankfully, I have book two on my eReader. So unlike with The Hunger Games books, I don’t have to wait a night to get my next fix.
I really enjoyed The Left Hand of Destiny Book One. It grew my esteem of my one of my favorite Klingons and of JG. Hertzler. I’m so glad I got to read this book. Now off to read a little bit of book two and then get some rest before the next day of work.
I’m unapologetic lover of Klingons. When I went to the Vancouver Star Trek Convention, the thing I was looking forward to the Breakfast with the Klingons the most. While on the outside I was all calm, on the inside the little girl in me would have thrown my autograph book on my head with glee just as my sister did when she met Mickey at a Breakfast with the Disney Characters on her first trip to Walt Disney World. It was my chance to meet J.G. Hertzler (General Martok) and Robert O’Reilly (Chancellor Gowron). They were so much fun. They were in character and out of character. My photo with them is one of my favorite photos to look at on a bad day (the other ones include when my friend and I went to a Flyers game together and one with my dad when we went to NYC). So I was excited to see that J.G. Hertzler had a couple books on my eReader when I was recently going through the library. I knew right then and there I would have to read them quickly. Admittedly, I had somewhat low expectations on J.G.’s ability to write a book. I just didn’t know what to expect since he’s an actor but I was so pleased by what I read. It really showed me how much he really knew his character on the show. Plus what added was magnificent.
In a nutshell, the book is about how General Martok had to deal with the biggest struggle of ruling the Klingon Empire. Sorry it’s the title I have for him, I know it’s Chancellor Martok since Worf killed Gowron and passed the power on to Martok prior to the book starting (since this book starts right after the last episode of DS9). Old habits die hard and besides the general is still struggling with the transition from general to Chancellor. On the day of the big ceremony really giving power to the General as Chancellor of the Klingon Empire, Morjod attacked the Great Hall and usurped the position. Plus to make matters worse, Morjod takes Sirella hostage and threatens public execution of her. So Martok is lead by not only a desire to save his own honor, he wants to save his wife.
Great themes and action in the book. I didn’t want to put it down at times. Like the Hunger Games, it’s plot driven. Plus this had a hint of a Arthurian legend to it. I love the grandeur of Klingon honor, the presence of a madwoman who has vast amounts of power (possibly mystical power), and saga itself.
But the thing that really stood out, was how well JG really knows the Klingon characters he put into the book. I got to hear the voices perfectly and even could envision every act. I loved how he expounded on Sirella’s character. You can see why Martok gets that little gleam in his eye when talking about Sirella in passing on DS9. Plus he even got Alexander right. That’s a difficult Klingon to work with when you compare the small boy from TNG to the awkward Klingon soldier that showed up on DS9. He nailed Martok. But when you portray that character in 27 episodes and then decide to write a book about the same character, that should be a given. I relished how the reader got to see the relationship between Martok and Worf where you got to see the little things that would annoy the General and yet he admired his brother.
The one thing that drove me nuts was the ending. It was so good and I was so enthralled and then it ended with a cliff hanger. I hate cliff hangers. So much so, if I know a show like DS9, Eureka or Doctor Who has one, I will just wait for the second episode to air and just watch the two episodes together. Thankfully, I have book two on my eReader. So unlike with The Hunger Games books, I don’t have to wait a night to get my next fix.
I really enjoyed The Left Hand of Destiny Book One. It grew my esteem of my one of my favorite Klingons and of JG. Hertzler. I’m so glad I got to read this book. Now off to read a little bit of book two and then get some rest before the next day of work.
January 26, 2024
Summary:
BOOK 1
Martok dreams, of being beaten by Kor as a young lad; losing his eye to a Jem'Hadar when he was a POW; Worf giving him the Chancellor robes taken from Gowron. Finally, of his father, Urthog, tellibg him to fight with his heart instead of a blade.
General Martok, Chancellor of the Klingon Empire, awakens aboard the Imperial flagship Negh'Var, heading towards Qo'noS to take his place as leader of the Klingon High Council. The crew throws him a party to celebrate, and though reluctant to join in at first, he eventually relents and comes to enjoy himself quite a bit.
The Negh'Var arrives at Qo'nos and a bright light flares above the Great Hall: a massive explosion detonates, leveling the Plaza of Heroes.
Worf's son Alexander is on his way to the City Center, running late for the ceremony, when the explosion goes off. Luckily he is uninjured.
A broadcast airs from the crater where the Great Hall once stood. A Klingon named Morjod proclaims that he has freed the Klingon people from the treachery of the corrupt council, that they will no longer be the Federation's lapdogs. The crowd seems hypnotized by him. He specifically blames Worf, and says he will hunt down Martok. He reveals his "hunting pack", a group of Hur'q, a species that once ravaged Qo'nos before Kahless render them extinct 1000 years ago. The crowd chants his name.
A Ferengi named Pharh, who was on Qo'nos to mine the landfills, hides under a table as a knife fight breaks out; someone recognized Alexander and attacked him. Alex runs away into an alley, but it dead-ends and he's trapped. Just as he's about to be disintegrated, a hooded warrior drops from the sky and KO's most of the pursuers, except the last one, who is clonked with a frying pan by Pharh. Alexander is whisked off by the warrior on an antigrav aircraft.
The Negh'Var is attacked by a dozen Klingon vessels. Captain K'Tar is killed saving Martok when part of the ceiling caves in. With their warp core about to breach, the chancellor orders them to ram one of the attacking ships.
At the Federation Embassy, Associate Consul Annup gets a report that the attack on the Great Hall was likely ballistic, something like 10,000 depleted uranium rods being dropped from high altitude. He tries to contact the Federation via secret drone but one of his cohorts knocks him out. He comes to and hears her telling a woman named Lady, who has a very hypnotic voice, that the probe is hers, and she's free to come to the embassy at her pleasure.
As the Negh'Var collides with the enemy vessel, Worf beams the remaining living crew to the surface, to the Ketha lowlands, the area where Martok grew up.
Martok's wife Sirella, and his house's gin'tak Darok, have survived the attack. They prepare to defend their compound against a squad of Hur'q.
Martok et al arrive at an old outpost he frequented as a youth, and they begin fortifying their position.
The Hur'q easily overwhelmed Sirella's security. She tells Darok to retreat so he can tell Martok that she greeted them as the mistress of the house. As he's leaving, he hears her tell them to leave her House.
Worf dreams of K'Ehleyr, Alexander's mother. She tells him to ask Alex what he really wants to do with his life next time Worf sees him. She offers him a bat'leth and a ceramic vessel. When he says he doesn't want the cup, she brings the bat'leth down on him.
Worf presents his findings on Morjod to Martok: he amassed power surreptitiously during the Dominion War, is seemingly well connected politically, and the Defense Force and Homeworld Security have accepted him as leader. Martok accepts this, but says Morjod is an idiot; someone else is pulling the strings.
Morjod does another public announcement, announcing that Martok used the Negh'Var to destroy 5 ships of the Klingon fleet, then fled like a coward. He asks the citizens to search for Martok, then reveals a captive Sirella. He says she will be executed in 2 days. Martok commands someone to find him a ship, and almost comes to blows with Worf when he warns that it's a trap. However, a squadron of birds-of-prey then passes over their location.
As Darok is walking, he encounters Martok's son Drex, who is being chased. Darok helps him dispatch the pursuers, but then they hear Hur'q closing in. As they're about to take off, they see Alexander and a cloaked figure. Darok says they're looking for Martok, and the others agree to come along. Alex signals to beam them out.
Pharh takes cover under his desk as the Klingons bombard the landfill.
Jaroun pulls Martok from the rubble of their base; he tells Martok that many of them were killed, and Worf is injured but being tended to. Martok says he's not the chancellor anymore, shrugs off his cloak, and leaves alone to find Sirella.
BOOK 2
Morjod's lady tells him all is going according to plan, and that Martok will deliver himself to them imminently. She says it was only a matter of time until one of Martok's men reported his position, since they saw the broadcast. Morjod wants to kill him right away, but she says they must humble him. Morjod agrees, as he'll do anything to please her.
Eventually, Martok comes to a Ferengi garbage mining compound where he finds a vehicle, but not the key. He searches a bombed-out building, and rescues Pharh, who is trapped under rubble. He gets the key from Pharh, and feeling that it's his fault Pharh's business has been destroyed, asks him to come along; Pharh agrees.
Martok tells Pharh his name is Tark, but later, Pharh says he knows he's the chancellor. Martok says he'll compensate him for the vehicle, but after giving it some thought, Pharh says he'll probably forget and wants to come along--his dad is writing him out of the family business anyway. Martok says he can ride along to the First City, then they'll discuss it further.
Morjod visits Sirella in her dungeon cell, and she deduces that the woman with him calling the shots must be his mother. The woman tells Sirella that 2 of her 3 children have alluded them, but her youngest daughter Lazhna is dead. She only asks Sirella how old Martok was when they met (25-26), then tells her she will die tomorrow.
Worf awakens to see Jaroun, Drex, Darok, and his son Alexander standing over him. Recalling his dream, he immediately asks Alex if he's doing what he wants to do, to which he replies yes, since he's by his father's side. Worf sees another figure he recognizes, who tells him they have a lot of work to do.
When they get close to the city, Martok tells Pharh to head back to the dump. He gives Pharh the chancellor's ring as payment, to either return to him after events play out, or to sell, then they hear their separate ways.
Inside the city, Martok kills a guard and takes his uniform and helmet. He uses the guard's keycard to access the building where Sirella is being held, and makes his way to the dungeon. Sirella's voice eventually leads him to her through a hidden passage. She tells him to leave before he's caught, that he must avenge their children, who were killed by Morjod's woman. He asks who she is, and behind him, a woman's voice tells says he already knows her. Martok and Sirella collapse.
Pharh's vehicle breaks down not long after he splits from Martok, so he hoofs it to the First City; however, it's surrounded by a desert, and he quickly runs out of water. He shelters in a small cave, where he finds the cloaked warrior from earlier. He asks Pharh if he's willing to help Martok, and Pharh agrees to come along.
Martok awakens in chains. The woman tells him to introduce her to Sirella; he says she is Gothmara, of House Kultan. Gothmara says Morjod is their son. As they're dragged in front of a crowd of 30,000, she tells Sirella that Martok took advantage of her, abused her, treated her father poorly, which Martok says are lies, that she was a madwoman.
As Sirella is being bound for her execution, a street sweeper comes flying onto the stage, and Pharh jumps out to free her. Morjod stabs Pharh in the chest, but he's mostly protected by light armor. Pharh signals for backup, and 2 dozen warriors shimmer into existence from a decloaked bird of prey.
The fight seems to be going in their favor, but Morjod summons his Hur'q from subspace; they quickly begin killing Klingons indiscriminately. Drex and Darok free Sirella, so Martok goes after Morjod. A Hur'q blocks him, and while Martok stabs it in the eye, Morjod stabs Martok in the shoulder. Martok is ready to take Morjod down with him, but the cloaked figure rushes in, puts a transport enhancer on him, and he's beammed aboard the bird of prey. Aboard, the cloaked man reveals himself to be Kahless, who tells Martok he has been trying to save the empire for him, as it is Martok's fate to be the chancellor.
Gothmara is shocked that Martok's forces managed to kill 2 of her Hur'q. She uses the voice and tells Morjod to find and kill Martok as a gift to her, then leaves for Boreth.
Martok sees Kar-Tela, the goddess of destiny, who offers him an earthen-ware cup; he reaches out his hand and awakens in the sickbay of the Rotarran. Pharh tells him he heard voices that told him to help Martok. Kahless tells Martok that although he sired Morjod, this doesn't fall on any one person's shoulders; it has been building for centuries, and it is Martok's destiny to be a symbol for the Klingon people. Martok says he's just a man and walks away. Worf says maybe he can be both.
On DS9, Ezri Dax gets a message from Worf that just says "now."
Review: 4 stars. This is really just the setup for book 2, so not much to say here.
BOOK 1
Martok dreams, of being beaten by Kor as a young lad; losing his eye to a Jem'Hadar when he was a POW; Worf giving him the Chancellor robes taken from Gowron. Finally, of his father, Urthog, tellibg him to fight with his heart instead of a blade.
General Martok, Chancellor of the Klingon Empire, awakens aboard the Imperial flagship Negh'Var, heading towards Qo'noS to take his place as leader of the Klingon High Council. The crew throws him a party to celebrate, and though reluctant to join in at first, he eventually relents and comes to enjoy himself quite a bit.
The Negh'Var arrives at Qo'nos and a bright light flares above the Great Hall: a massive explosion detonates, leveling the Plaza of Heroes.
Worf's son Alexander is on his way to the City Center, running late for the ceremony, when the explosion goes off. Luckily he is uninjured.
A broadcast airs from the crater where the Great Hall once stood. A Klingon named Morjod proclaims that he has freed the Klingon people from the treachery of the corrupt council, that they will no longer be the Federation's lapdogs. The crowd seems hypnotized by him. He specifically blames Worf, and says he will hunt down Martok. He reveals his "hunting pack", a group of Hur'q, a species that once ravaged Qo'nos before Kahless render them extinct 1000 years ago. The crowd chants his name.
A Ferengi named Pharh, who was on Qo'nos to mine the landfills, hides under a table as a knife fight breaks out; someone recognized Alexander and attacked him. Alex runs away into an alley, but it dead-ends and he's trapped. Just as he's about to be disintegrated, a hooded warrior drops from the sky and KO's most of the pursuers, except the last one, who is clonked with a frying pan by Pharh. Alexander is whisked off by the warrior on an antigrav aircraft.
The Negh'Var is attacked by a dozen Klingon vessels. Captain K'Tar is killed saving Martok when part of the ceiling caves in. With their warp core about to breach, the chancellor orders them to ram one of the attacking ships.
At the Federation Embassy, Associate Consul Annup gets a report that the attack on the Great Hall was likely ballistic, something like 10,000 depleted uranium rods being dropped from high altitude. He tries to contact the Federation via secret drone but one of his cohorts knocks him out. He comes to and hears her telling a woman named Lady, who has a very hypnotic voice, that the probe is hers, and she's free to come to the embassy at her pleasure.
As the Negh'Var collides with the enemy vessel, Worf beams the remaining living crew to the surface, to the Ketha lowlands, the area where Martok grew up.
Martok's wife Sirella, and his house's gin'tak Darok, have survived the attack. They prepare to defend their compound against a squad of Hur'q.
Martok et al arrive at an old outpost he frequented as a youth, and they begin fortifying their position.
The Hur'q easily overwhelmed Sirella's security. She tells Darok to retreat so he can tell Martok that she greeted them as the mistress of the house. As he's leaving, he hears her tell them to leave her House.
Worf dreams of K'Ehleyr, Alexander's mother. She tells him to ask Alex what he really wants to do with his life next time Worf sees him. She offers him a bat'leth and a ceramic vessel. When he says he doesn't want the cup, she brings the bat'leth down on him.
Worf presents his findings on Morjod to Martok: he amassed power surreptitiously during the Dominion War, is seemingly well connected politically, and the Defense Force and Homeworld Security have accepted him as leader. Martok accepts this, but says Morjod is an idiot; someone else is pulling the strings.
Morjod does another public announcement, announcing that Martok used the Negh'Var to destroy 5 ships of the Klingon fleet, then fled like a coward. He asks the citizens to search for Martok, then reveals a captive Sirella. He says she will be executed in 2 days. Martok commands someone to find him a ship, and almost comes to blows with Worf when he warns that it's a trap. However, a squadron of birds-of-prey then passes over their location.
As Darok is walking, he encounters Martok's son Drex, who is being chased. Darok helps him dispatch the pursuers, but then they hear Hur'q closing in. As they're about to take off, they see Alexander and a cloaked figure. Darok says they're looking for Martok, and the others agree to come along. Alex signals to beam them out.
Pharh takes cover under his desk as the Klingons bombard the landfill.
Jaroun pulls Martok from the rubble of their base; he tells Martok that many of them were killed, and Worf is injured but being tended to. Martok says he's not the chancellor anymore, shrugs off his cloak, and leaves alone to find Sirella.
BOOK 2
Morjod's lady tells him all is going according to plan, and that Martok will deliver himself to them imminently. She says it was only a matter of time until one of Martok's men reported his position, since they saw the broadcast. Morjod wants to kill him right away, but she says they must humble him. Morjod agrees, as he'll do anything to please her.
Eventually, Martok comes to a Ferengi garbage mining compound where he finds a vehicle, but not the key. He searches a bombed-out building, and rescues Pharh, who is trapped under rubble. He gets the key from Pharh, and feeling that it's his fault Pharh's business has been destroyed, asks him to come along; Pharh agrees.
Martok tells Pharh his name is Tark, but later, Pharh says he knows he's the chancellor. Martok says he'll compensate him for the vehicle, but after giving it some thought, Pharh says he'll probably forget and wants to come along--his dad is writing him out of the family business anyway. Martok says he can ride along to the First City, then they'll discuss it further.
Morjod visits Sirella in her dungeon cell, and she deduces that the woman with him calling the shots must be his mother. The woman tells Sirella that 2 of her 3 children have alluded them, but her youngest daughter Lazhna is dead. She only asks Sirella how old Martok was when they met (25-26), then tells her she will die tomorrow.
Worf awakens to see Jaroun, Drex, Darok, and his son Alexander standing over him. Recalling his dream, he immediately asks Alex if he's doing what he wants to do, to which he replies yes, since he's by his father's side. Worf sees another figure he recognizes, who tells him they have a lot of work to do.
When they get close to the city, Martok tells Pharh to head back to the dump. He gives Pharh the chancellor's ring as payment, to either return to him after events play out, or to sell, then they hear their separate ways.
Inside the city, Martok kills a guard and takes his uniform and helmet. He uses the guard's keycard to access the building where Sirella is being held, and makes his way to the dungeon. Sirella's voice eventually leads him to her through a hidden passage. She tells him to leave before he's caught, that he must avenge their children, who were killed by Morjod's woman. He asks who she is, and behind him, a woman's voice tells says he already knows her. Martok and Sirella collapse.
Pharh's vehicle breaks down not long after he splits from Martok, so he hoofs it to the First City; however, it's surrounded by a desert, and he quickly runs out of water. He shelters in a small cave, where he finds the cloaked warrior from earlier. He asks Pharh if he's willing to help Martok, and Pharh agrees to come along.
Martok awakens in chains. The woman tells him to introduce her to Sirella; he says she is Gothmara, of House Kultan. Gothmara says Morjod is their son. As they're dragged in front of a crowd of 30,000, she tells Sirella that Martok took advantage of her, abused her, treated her father poorly, which Martok says are lies, that she was a madwoman.
As Sirella is being bound for her execution, a street sweeper comes flying onto the stage, and Pharh jumps out to free her. Morjod stabs Pharh in the chest, but he's mostly protected by light armor. Pharh signals for backup, and 2 dozen warriors shimmer into existence from a decloaked bird of prey.
The fight seems to be going in their favor, but Morjod summons his Hur'q from subspace; they quickly begin killing Klingons indiscriminately. Drex and Darok free Sirella, so Martok goes after Morjod. A Hur'q blocks him, and while Martok stabs it in the eye, Morjod stabs Martok in the shoulder. Martok is ready to take Morjod down with him, but the cloaked figure rushes in, puts a transport enhancer on him, and he's beammed aboard the bird of prey. Aboard, the cloaked man reveals himself to be Kahless, who tells Martok he has been trying to save the empire for him, as it is Martok's fate to be the chancellor.
Gothmara is shocked that Martok's forces managed to kill 2 of her Hur'q. She uses the voice and tells Morjod to find and kill Martok as a gift to her, then leaves for Boreth.
Martok sees Kar-Tela, the goddess of destiny, who offers him an earthen-ware cup; he reaches out his hand and awakens in the sickbay of the Rotarran. Pharh tells him he heard voices that told him to help Martok. Kahless tells Martok that although he sired Morjod, this doesn't fall on any one person's shoulders; it has been building for centuries, and it is Martok's destiny to be a symbol for the Klingon people. Martok says he's just a man and walks away. Worf says maybe he can be both.
On DS9, Ezri Dax gets a message from Worf that just says "now."
Review: 4 stars. This is really just the setup for book 2, so not much to say here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2024
2024 reads, #52 and 53. I’m behind on my attempt to read all 134 titles of the Star Trek “Relaunch” novel series, in which for twenty years (2001 to 2021) Paramount gave Simon & Schuster permission to create an entirely new persistent serial universe for the Roddenberry-era Star Trek shows that supposedly starts the day after the Deep Space Nine television show ends, one in which major characters are allowed to grow, change and die, when usually these kinds of franchise novels are all supposed to be standalone tales so that someone can just find a random one at a yard sale and not have to read twenty novels before it just to understand what’s going on. That’s generally been fantastic for someone like me, who was a big fan of the Roddenberry-era shows but can’t stand any of the 21st-century ones, and who turned to these novels in the first place in order to get more stories from these characters and situations who I miss and wished I could spend time with again. But after 14 novels so far that I’ve found anywhere from okay to great, I’ve finally come across one for the first time that wasn’t just mediocre but outright terrible, the two-volume super story The Left Hand of Destiny by JG Hertzler and Jeffrey Lang.
The main problem here is with the first book of the two, a 300-page story whose events last only over a single 24-hour period, and whose entire plot can be summed up with the single sentence, “OH EM EFF GEE, KLINGON COUP ON QO’NOS!!!!!!!!!!1!!!” That essentially makes the entire first book nothing but a 300-page action scene; and as I’ve said plenty of times in the past, the one element of genre thrillers I find most tedious over everything else is when an action scene is written out as literary prose, which from a plot and character standpoint (the main two things about literature I care about) can be entirely summed up with, “The battle began, then 300 pages later the battle finished.” And while volume 2 is a bit better than this -- at least it unfolds over several days this time, and involves other characters besides just a bunch of Klingons all trying to murder each other -- it’s not much better, making this a 600-page exercise in intolerable tedium that almost broke me.
I suspect that a lot of the problems here boil down to the fact that the books’ co-author was JG Hertzler, the actor who actually played the Klingon named Martok who’s the hero of these two volumes; and stunt-hiring like this rarely goes well, in that most actors wouldn’t be able to write their way out of a paper bag, so I suspect some of the more groan-inducing moments of these books come directly from Hertzler picking scene ideas based on how badass an image of Martok it might produce in the mind’s eye (“OH EM EFF GEE, A POSSE OF KLINGONS ON SPACE HORSES!!!!!!!!!!1!!!!”). The problems are just compounded, then, when you add the other co-author here, Jeffrey Lang, who here suffers very, very badly from what I like to call “Joss Whedon Syndrome,” which is when your characters talk and behave in such an intolerably twee and cutesy way that you almost can’t get through the book because of all the vomiting you’re doing from your stomach rebelling against all the sugary treacle that author is trying to cram down your throat. (Then again, these books were originally published in 2003, right at the height of Whedonmania -- Buffy was just ending that year, Firefly just starting, Angel in the middle of its run -- so I suppose it’s only natural that a bunch of other genre writers would adopt the same winking, TikTokky style of prose in these years.)
That creates double problems that combine powerfully to make these books much bigger stinkers than either of these problems on their own -- not only is barely any story actually being told here (“I’m the rightful ruler of Qo’noS!” PEW! PEW! PEW! “No, I’M the rightful ruler of Qo’noS!” PEW! PEW! PEW!), but the little bit of story that is being told is being told terribly, all cheesy one-liners and adults talking like children, hammy stereotypes belting their lines out to the back row, one bazillion references to “Today is a good day to die!,” and a whole lot of other literary crimes against humanity. The irony is that almost nothing happens here that one needs to know in order to keep the events of the larger “Relaunch” universe straight in one’s head (); so unless you’re a particular fan of 600 pages of PEW! PEW! PEW!, let me assure you that you can skip straight over these and go directly on to the next book in the series.
And speaking of that, my next read will be an interesting one, because I’ll be veering off from the main line of Deep Space Nine novels with the next volume; for it was right in these years that the related Star Trek show Voyager ended its own TV run, and the executives at Simon & Schuster (mostly Marco Palmieri, the main puppetmaster of this entire 134-book run, who went on afterwards to become a senior editor at Tor) decided at that point to enfold the USS Voyager’s crew into this main “Relaunch” universe as well, and start writing adventures for them that tie into and affect the things going on with both the DS9 characters and our buddies on the USS Enterprise. I was originally only going to read the DS9 books, but I learned the hard way that lots of things happen in these other books that affect the events in the DS9 novels; so at that point I spent an exasperating eight-hour day online one day finally tracking down the titles of every single one of these 134 Relaunch books and the exact month and year each was published (click here to see the list yourself), and will now be reading all the rest of them in chronological order by their publishing date, no matter which corner of the Star Trek universe each are set in. That makes my next read the first of the Voyager Relaunch novels, 2003’s Homecoming by Christie Golden; and since I’m behind on these Relaunch novels, I’ll be getting to this one sooner rather than later. As always, I hope you’ll have a chance to join me here again for that one.
The main problem here is with the first book of the two, a 300-page story whose events last only over a single 24-hour period, and whose entire plot can be summed up with the single sentence, “OH EM EFF GEE, KLINGON COUP ON QO’NOS!!!!!!!!!!1!!!” That essentially makes the entire first book nothing but a 300-page action scene; and as I’ve said plenty of times in the past, the one element of genre thrillers I find most tedious over everything else is when an action scene is written out as literary prose, which from a plot and character standpoint (the main two things about literature I care about) can be entirely summed up with, “The battle began, then 300 pages later the battle finished.” And while volume 2 is a bit better than this -- at least it unfolds over several days this time, and involves other characters besides just a bunch of Klingons all trying to murder each other -- it’s not much better, making this a 600-page exercise in intolerable tedium that almost broke me.
I suspect that a lot of the problems here boil down to the fact that the books’ co-author was JG Hertzler, the actor who actually played the Klingon named Martok who’s the hero of these two volumes; and stunt-hiring like this rarely goes well, in that most actors wouldn’t be able to write their way out of a paper bag, so I suspect some of the more groan-inducing moments of these books come directly from Hertzler picking scene ideas based on how badass an image of Martok it might produce in the mind’s eye (“OH EM EFF GEE, A POSSE OF KLINGONS ON SPACE HORSES!!!!!!!!!!1!!!!”). The problems are just compounded, then, when you add the other co-author here, Jeffrey Lang, who here suffers very, very badly from what I like to call “Joss Whedon Syndrome,” which is when your characters talk and behave in such an intolerably twee and cutesy way that you almost can’t get through the book because of all the vomiting you’re doing from your stomach rebelling against all the sugary treacle that author is trying to cram down your throat. (Then again, these books were originally published in 2003, right at the height of Whedonmania -- Buffy was just ending that year, Firefly just starting, Angel in the middle of its run -- so I suppose it’s only natural that a bunch of other genre writers would adopt the same winking, TikTokky style of prose in these years.)
That creates double problems that combine powerfully to make these books much bigger stinkers than either of these problems on their own -- not only is barely any story actually being told here (“I’m the rightful ruler of Qo’noS!” PEW! PEW! PEW! “No, I’M the rightful ruler of Qo’noS!” PEW! PEW! PEW!), but the little bit of story that is being told is being told terribly, all cheesy one-liners and adults talking like children, hammy stereotypes belting their lines out to the back row, one bazillion references to “Today is a good day to die!,” and a whole lot of other literary crimes against humanity. The irony is that almost nothing happens here that one needs to know in order to keep the events of the larger “Relaunch” universe straight in one’s head (); so unless you’re a particular fan of 600 pages of PEW! PEW! PEW!, let me assure you that you can skip straight over these and go directly on to the next book in the series.
And speaking of that, my next read will be an interesting one, because I’ll be veering off from the main line of Deep Space Nine novels with the next volume; for it was right in these years that the related Star Trek show Voyager ended its own TV run, and the executives at Simon & Schuster (mostly Marco Palmieri, the main puppetmaster of this entire 134-book run, who went on afterwards to become a senior editor at Tor) decided at that point to enfold the USS Voyager’s crew into this main “Relaunch” universe as well, and start writing adventures for them that tie into and affect the things going on with both the DS9 characters and our buddies on the USS Enterprise. I was originally only going to read the DS9 books, but I learned the hard way that lots of things happen in these other books that affect the events in the DS9 novels; so at that point I spent an exasperating eight-hour day online one day finally tracking down the titles of every single one of these 134 Relaunch books and the exact month and year each was published (click here to see the list yourself), and will now be reading all the rest of them in chronological order by their publishing date, no matter which corner of the Star Trek universe each are set in. That makes my next read the first of the Voyager Relaunch novels, 2003’s Homecoming by Christie Golden; and since I’m behind on these Relaunch novels, I’ll be getting to this one sooner rather than later. As always, I hope you’ll have a chance to join me here again for that one.
September 20, 2015
Another relaunch book I started initially disappointed, because it doesn't pick up where Mission Gamma left off (on quite a cliffhanger!). This book takes place right after the series ends, and shows what's going on in the Klingon empire.
My disappointment was short-lived, though. This book does a wonderful job of getting into Martok's head. He's shown to be a complex individual, still reeling after the traumatic events he suffered during the series, and who has his own doubts and flaws. That seems true to the way the character was shown in the series (though I guess that's to be expected, since it was written by the actor who played him!) This book also nicely fleshes out Sirella, who only got one appearance on the show and little time to shine. This book shows her to be a woman made of steel, who puts honor and duty above all else. She also takes stubborn to a whole new level. The scenes between her and Martok are kind of adorable. The original characters are all interesting and well-rounded as well, and I'm curious to see what happens to them.
I'm looking forward to the second book!
My disappointment was short-lived, though. This book does a wonderful job of getting into Martok's head. He's shown to be a complex individual, still reeling after the traumatic events he suffered during the series, and who has his own doubts and flaws. That seems true to the way the character was shown in the series (though I guess that's to be expected, since it was written by the actor who played him!) This book also nicely fleshes out Sirella, who only got one appearance on the show and little time to shine. This book shows her to be a woman made of steel, who puts honor and duty above all else. She also takes stubborn to a whole new level. The scenes between her and Martok are kind of adorable. The original characters are all interesting and well-rounded as well, and I'm curious to see what happens to them.
I'm looking forward to the second book!
November 9, 2012
Taking place right after the events of the last episode of Deep space nine, this novel follows Worf and the newly appointed General/Chancellor Martok back to the Klingon home world after the end of the Dominion War.
Before they can beam down to celebrate with gallons of blood wine a rebel blows up the hall of warriors and another Klingon civil war that breaks out suddenly.
Pretty neat that this novel is co-written by the actor who played Martok. Andrew Robinson(Also the serial killer in dirty harry and the dad in hellraiser - just saying) wrote a DS9 novel about his character Garak. It is always fun to read about Klingons but really fun seeing an actor explore his own character.
Book ends with a cool cliffhanger setting up the second book.
Before they can beam down to celebrate with gallons of blood wine a rebel blows up the hall of warriors and another Klingon civil war that breaks out suddenly.
Pretty neat that this novel is co-written by the actor who played Martok. Andrew Robinson(Also the serial killer in dirty harry and the dad in hellraiser - just saying) wrote a DS9 novel about his character Garak. It is always fun to read about Klingons but really fun seeing an actor explore his own character.
Book ends with a cool cliffhanger setting up the second book.
September 18, 2015
Look I just love Worf so dang much.
Read
April 16, 2023It’s always a bit of a mystery when you have actors taking on the role of the novelist. I did appreciate that Jeffrey Lang is credited as a co-writer as often that person tends to get lost in the shadows with arrangements like this. And I’m not in any way doubting Hertzler’s abilities or his credibility - all it takes is listening to one interview to see how invested he is in this character. Who better to tell a story centered around Martok?
Regardless of who did the lion share of writing, the first installment in this two-parter does what it needs to do. It kicks things off in the immediate aftermath of the DS9 series finale and as it’s written, could have functioned as a pretty epic premiere for a spinoff series. I’ve never been a huge fan of Klingons in Star Trek but the writing here does total justice to them and kept me interested.
I appreciated the use of Ezri Dax, a character that I generally felt wasn’t used very well on the show. I appreciated the symmetry between her and Jadzia as she is again pulled into a conflict due to her allegiances and oaths made by previous hosts. This was also a rare time when I felt Worf’s son Alexander was used decently. It was nice to see a story involving the two of them that didn’t immediately retreat to the crutch of reminding us about Worf’s shortcomings as a father.
At times, the story does feel like it cobbles together a handful of recycled concepts - some shades of the house of Duras in here as well as the TNG two-parter, Redemption. Still, the book moves along at a great pace and has some cool concepts of its own as well. While I was a little underwhelmed by part two, this book definitely is firing on all cylinders.
Regardless of who did the lion share of writing, the first installment in this two-parter does what it needs to do. It kicks things off in the immediate aftermath of the DS9 series finale and as it’s written, could have functioned as a pretty epic premiere for a spinoff series. I’ve never been a huge fan of Klingons in Star Trek but the writing here does total justice to them and kept me interested.
I appreciated the use of Ezri Dax, a character that I generally felt wasn’t used very well on the show. I appreciated the symmetry between her and Jadzia as she is again pulled into a conflict due to her allegiances and oaths made by previous hosts. This was also a rare time when I felt Worf’s son Alexander was used decently. It was nice to see a story involving the two of them that didn’t immediately retreat to the crutch of reminding us about Worf’s shortcomings as a father.
At times, the story does feel like it cobbles together a handful of recycled concepts - some shades of the house of Duras in here as well as the TNG two-parter, Redemption. Still, the book moves along at a great pace and has some cool concepts of its own as well. While I was a little underwhelmed by part two, this book definitely is firing on all cylinders.
February 25, 2021
Overall, this was a fun book by J.G. Hertzler (the actor behind General Martok) and Jeffery Lang. I'm not sure how involved Hertzler was, as I know that, with co-authors, most of the actor-writers, apart from Andy Robinson, didn't write as much.
I must confess that I've never been much for Klingon stories, particularly when I don't care much about the characters. General Martok was always a popular character in DS9's later seasons, but not a character I could see fully enjoying two books about.
In "The Left Hand of Destiny," which takes place immediately following the end of DS9's final episode, General Martok returns home to accept his place as Chancellor. Of course, things turn out quite badly for our protagonist, and along with Ambassador Worf and a cast of supporting characters, Martok fights for the restoration of the Klingon Empire as he has led it.
The villains, it turns out, are, like Klingon culture as a whole, very Shakespearian in nature. There are a couple of fun beats, including the use of a Ferengi (who doesn't like Ferengis in Star Trek?), and a mysteriously hooded Klingon warrior.
Overall, though, it's certainly an ode to a character that Hertzler enjoyed playing, but perhaps not one that many would have expected two books to be based upon. I'm reading the book as part of the DS9 Relaunch, but I'm not really looking forward to the fact that this is only Part 1 of 2. I think the entire story could easily have been completed in 300 - 400 pages.
I must confess that I've never been much for Klingon stories, particularly when I don't care much about the characters. General Martok was always a popular character in DS9's later seasons, but not a character I could see fully enjoying two books about.
In "The Left Hand of Destiny," which takes place immediately following the end of DS9's final episode, General Martok returns home to accept his place as Chancellor. Of course, things turn out quite badly for our protagonist, and along with Ambassador Worf and a cast of supporting characters, Martok fights for the restoration of the Klingon Empire as he has led it.
The villains, it turns out, are, like Klingon culture as a whole, very Shakespearian in nature. There are a couple of fun beats, including the use of a Ferengi (who doesn't like Ferengis in Star Trek?), and a mysteriously hooded Klingon warrior.
Overall, though, it's certainly an ode to a character that Hertzler enjoyed playing, but perhaps not one that many would have expected two books to be based upon. I'm reading the book as part of the DS9 Relaunch, but I'm not really looking forward to the fact that this is only Part 1 of 2. I think the entire story could easily have been completed in 300 - 400 pages.
August 6, 2018
[3.5 out of 5]. Picking up a few days after the finale of Deep Space Nine, this first book in the Left Hand of Destiny duology is a quick read. That leads to me to believe it should have been sold as one complete book rather than splitting in half.
It tells a story about a coup on the Klingon homeworld as the new Chancellor, Martok, returns there along with Worf. This is a very Klingon story, so how much you like them will affect your own enjoyment. I do quite like them, although they always get bogged down in talk of honour a bit too much, while the characters themselves tend to display very little.
The narrative jumps around quite abruptly between a few characters and it moves fast, making it feel like something of an adventure story. It's also quite introspective as we get inside the heads of Martok, Worf, Alexander and others. The TV show gave us a glimpse of the relationship between Martok and his wife, Sirella, and I'm pleased to say that it appears here in full force and is probably the highlight of the book.
There's a nice element of mystery too surrounding the identity of a few characters which kept me coming back. It's good, not great, and the how the second book finishes off the story will determine how worthwhile it all is.
It tells a story about a coup on the Klingon homeworld as the new Chancellor, Martok, returns there along with Worf. This is a very Klingon story, so how much you like them will affect your own enjoyment. I do quite like them, although they always get bogged down in talk of honour a bit too much, while the characters themselves tend to display very little.
The narrative jumps around quite abruptly between a few characters and it moves fast, making it feel like something of an adventure story. It's also quite introspective as we get inside the heads of Martok, Worf, Alexander and others. The TV show gave us a glimpse of the relationship between Martok and his wife, Sirella, and I'm pleased to say that it appears here in full force and is probably the highlight of the book.
There's a nice element of mystery too surrounding the identity of a few characters which kept me coming back. It's good, not great, and the how the second book finishes off the story will determine how worthwhile it all is.
July 20, 2019
It took a while to finish this book for me and I found it 3.5 stars out of 5.
Pluses: the book was written by the actor who actually portrayed the character on TV so he definitely knows how to get inside Martok's head. As a Klingon, it's not the head but the warrior heart. Klingons do not whisper!
Minuses: follows the trope: if Klingons are not fighting the Federation or the Romulans, then they are fighting each other. There is another novel with the same idea; Worf is in the Federation embassy in the middle of another palace coup.
Pluses: Besides Martok, Worf is consistent. I can hear Michael Dorn's growl as Worf. Then the Ferengi Pharh is a bit of scene stealer because I was actually rooting for this odd Ferengi who doesn't seem to have the lobes for business or the fawning passive-aggressive ones, but somehow gets caught up in the coup.
Minuses: At times it does feel more like a 46 minute long TV episode. Because this is a two -part story, I am almost waiting for a "To Be Continued..." card to be shown then fade to black. The second half might begin with either MBR or Nana Visitor (or any other actor) saying: "Previously on... And now the conclusion..."
Pluses: the book was written by the actor who actually portrayed the character on TV so he definitely knows how to get inside Martok's head. As a Klingon, it's not the head but the warrior heart. Klingons do not whisper!
Minuses: follows the trope: if Klingons are not fighting the Federation or the Romulans, then they are fighting each other. There is another novel with the same idea; Worf is in the Federation embassy in the middle of another palace coup.
Pluses: Besides Martok, Worf is consistent. I can hear Michael Dorn's growl as Worf. Then the Ferengi Pharh is a bit of scene stealer because I was actually rooting for this odd Ferengi who doesn't seem to have the lobes for business or the fawning passive-aggressive ones, but somehow gets caught up in the coup.
Minuses: At times it does feel more like a 46 minute long TV episode. Because this is a two -part story, I am almost waiting for a "To Be Continued..." card to be shown then fade to black. The second half might begin with either MBR or Nana Visitor (or any other actor) saying: "Previously on... And now the conclusion..."
January 16, 2022
Gowron and Martok are my favorite Trek characters, so when I learned there was a book co-authored by Martok's actor that specifically continued the character's journey post DS9, I had to give it a go.
The book is an excellent exploration of who Martok is and where his priorities lie. Sirella continues to be the insufferable snob she was in DS9 and I have no idea why any man in the universe would choose to be married to her, never mind consider her to be "magnificent", but this just goes to show that Hertzler and Lang really took her portrayal in DS9 to heart and ran with it. All of the other characters are likewise portrayed faithfully, and I think they did an excellent job.
The inciting incident and subsequent upheaval for the Empire is gut-wrenching if you're a klingon nerd (which I am). There are lots of interesting cultural tidbits thrown in that were never revealed in either TNG or DS9. All in all it's a wonderful adventure. My biggest disappointment was getting to the end and finding out that it wasn't the end...because at the time I had no idea there was a book two!
The book is an excellent exploration of who Martok is and where his priorities lie. Sirella continues to be the insufferable snob she was in DS9 and I have no idea why any man in the universe would choose to be married to her, never mind consider her to be "magnificent", but this just goes to show that Hertzler and Lang really took her portrayal in DS9 to heart and ran with it. All of the other characters are likewise portrayed faithfully, and I think they did an excellent job.
The inciting incident and subsequent upheaval for the Empire is gut-wrenching if you're a klingon nerd (which I am). There are lots of interesting cultural tidbits thrown in that were never revealed in either TNG or DS9. All in all it's a wonderful adventure. My biggest disappointment was getting to the end and finding out that it wasn't the end...because at the time I had no idea there was a book two!
April 12, 2023
A Good Read
Martok has always been one of my favorite Klingons. I enjoyed learning more about his past, his family, and his thoughts about becoming Chancellor. J.G. Hertzler's portrayal has always been top-shelf to me.
I really loved getting a little more time with Sirella, daughter of Linkasa. Her Ladyship is truly a glorious woman indeed!
I did find the beginning a little slow, but the story picked up around the end of Chapter Two.
There are several formatting errors in sections that are italicized. Usually two words without a space in between.
The hooded person was a little obvious. However, I don't remember the person the way they are described in this novel. I'll have to re-watch a few episodes to reconcile my memory and this novel.
I also found myself not really caring about Gothmara or Morjod. Towards the end of the book, they reminded me of Morgaine Le Fay and Mordred from the Justice League and Justice League Unlimited cartoons.
I am starting book two and am excited to see where this adventure ends.
Martok has always been one of my favorite Klingons. I enjoyed learning more about his past, his family, and his thoughts about becoming Chancellor. J.G. Hertzler's portrayal has always been top-shelf to me.
I really loved getting a little more time with Sirella, daughter of Linkasa. Her Ladyship is truly a glorious woman indeed!
I did find the beginning a little slow, but the story picked up around the end of Chapter Two.
There are several formatting errors in sections that are italicized. Usually two words without a space in between.
The hooded person was a little obvious. However, I don't remember the person the way they are described in this novel. I'll have to re-watch a few episodes to reconcile my memory and this novel.
I also found myself not really caring about Gothmara or Morjod. Towards the end of the book, they reminded me of Morgaine Le Fay and Mordred from the Justice League and Justice League Unlimited cartoons.
I am starting book two and am excited to see where this adventure ends.
May 30, 2023
I was expecting this to be fairly dry, with long stretches of backstory and filler exposition on Klingon society, culture and politics. Not so. Rather it's laser focused on Martok's unlikely journey from general to chancellor of the Klingon empire, with great insight into his stern, grumpy yet occasionally effusively companionable character, no doubt provided by Hertzler. The story is fast paced and thrilling, following Martok as he is cast down to the ultimate depths of despair at the hands of a mysterious usurper with uncanny powers and risks losing everything he's fought for and achieved during his long and storied life. Worf, his son Alexander, and a Ferengi character named Pharh, prove excellent supporting characters. The latter providing some excellent comic relief and a superb foil to the Klingons in general, and Martok in particular, with their notions of honor, duty and loyalty. Highly recommended to Trek fans, DS9 in particular. On to book two!
July 12, 2022
An absolutely wonderful start to a duology. I didn't think I would be so invested in Klingon politics, but I love Martok so much that it really makes this one of the most interesting aspects of the ST universe.
The way that Lang handles the past of such beloved characters is incredible. Like others have said, the story happens at break-neck speeds as Lang pushes you through the incredible story of Worf and Martok's return to Qo'noS.
This book leaves off on a pretty large cliffhanger so I will be picking up the next book immediately, highly recommend picking this up if you are a fan of Deep Space 9!
The way that Lang handles the past of such beloved characters is incredible. Like others have said, the story happens at break-neck speeds as Lang pushes you through the incredible story of Worf and Martok's return to Qo'noS.
This book leaves off on a pretty large cliffhanger so I will be picking up the next book immediately, highly recommend picking this up if you are a fan of Deep Space 9!
August 21, 2025
Jesus, reading this in 2025 is crazy. The isolationist, anti-intelluctual thread of the Klingon empire feels all too relevant. Trump as Morjod!
This first book is actually a bit slow - our heroes largely on the run, not truly understanding their foes, barely a step ahead of death. But lots of work to give depth and background to the Klingon world and to introduce the cast (while I'm a HUGE DS9 fan, I'm not very familiar with TNG and have only passingly met Alexander). Pharh the Ferengi is a great character.
This first book is actually a bit slow - our heroes largely on the run, not truly understanding their foes, barely a step ahead of death. But lots of work to give depth and background to the Klingon world and to introduce the cast (while I'm a HUGE DS9 fan, I'm not very familiar with TNG and have only passingly met Alexander). Pharh the Ferengi is a great character.
February 3, 2025
This one is probably more a 3.5 for me. I found the flashbacks, dreams and side characters a little too frustrating when I wanted more for the main plot and who the antagonists are. I am looking forward for the second novel to answer a lot of questions that the first one raised and why everyone so quickly abandoned Martok. Hoping the second one moves a little quicker story-wise as I do want to enjoy these but drags a bit
September 13, 2020
I've been torn between 3 and 4 stars. I'm gonna go top of the line 3. This is a pretty good continuation of some DS9 plot threads; mainly the Klingon ones. Between Martok, his wife, Worf, Alexander, Phrah the Ferengi and others, this had pretty good character work and turned out to be more solid... If less flashy... Action tale that Discovery.
July 12, 2022
This is the story of General Martok and his return to Kronos to rule the Klingon Empire. It takes place immediately after the last episode of DS9. An old enemy tries to overthrow his government and kill not only him but all his family and allies. If you love Star Trek and Klingons you'll love this book.
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