#bolians

Walking and talking.

VOY #14: Marooned by Christie Golden Book Jacket’s Summary:      “When an alien pirate abducts Kes, USS Voyager takes off in hot pursuit, but the first rescue mission fails disastrously; an ion storm forces the shuttle to crash on an unknown world. Now Captain Janeway and her away team must embark on a hazardous trek through a hostile environment in search of a way off the planet, while Voyager, commanded by Chakotay, confronts an enemy fleet in the depths of space.” Yeaka’s Notes:     So, for some reason, this cover has “It’s Paris and Torres against the wilderness, with Kes’ life at stake!” at the top, even though all the main cast stars in this and Kes’ life isn’t endangered. Janeway is particularly amazing, in charge of the primary away team and resisting traps the others fall into early on. Tuvok, Neelix, B’Elanna, Tom, and a Bolian ensign are with her, while Chakotay, Harry, and the doctor field the ship. Even Chell and Carey show up, plus a few of Christie Golden’s usual Voyager extras. Everyone is in character, has plenty to do, and is lovingly handled. Despite the inaccuracy of the headline, this is indeed a good read for B’Elanna/Tom fans; you’ll even get her carrying him around and caring for him during an injury.    While everyone is doing their best to find Kes, she’s holding her own with rogue pirates. For once, this book actually mentions Stockholm Syndrome, playing on the cliché problematic romance tropes but in a blessedly self-aware way. The book jumps evenly between her and everyone else’s point of view. Both Janeway and Neelix find new aliens, and both sets are interesting and likeable. Neelix’s bond with a flying critter is particularly cute. Janeway’s diplomacy is as strong as ever. The plot is constantly evolving and the writing is compelling.     This is one of those books I found difficult to put down. It’s a near-perfect Voyager tale and should prove a solid read for any Trek fan.   Noteworthy moments: (below cut)