The Disinherited by Peter David, Michael Jan Friedman and Bob Greenberger (Star Trek #59, May 1992).

Uhura is sent on a mission with another starship to contact an alien race with a different way of communication, and the Enterprise is called to investigate attacks on colonies that have caused heavy losses of life and property. The incidents are near the Gorn territories, but no connection has been found. When the attackers strike again, the Enterprise must confront a smaller, more maneuverable foe that can strike quickly and cause heavy damage.

This tome by a trio of writers at times shows the effects of too many hands (abrupt scene changes, first Commodore Wesley is on the ship, then all of a sudden he's on the planet) but since all three are good writers with a strong background in Star Trek, the book works very well. David's often-humorous approach, Friedman's straight-ahead storytelling, and Greenberger's encyclopedic knowledge of the source material blend together to make a book that if not seamless, is certainly entertaining.

Uhura gets a chance to shine in another environment, using her communication skills to interpret the wishes of an alien race. It is a role that would be filled by Couselor Troi on Next Generation, but this story show that Uhura would have worked well in the role if the original series' stories had been written that way. Uhura is also able to uncover the key fact that links the stories together, and reveals the truth behind the identities of the raiders.

The story also features the early days of Chekov aboard the Enterprise, to excellent effect. Some other stories have had Chekov on board since the beginning of the five-year mission, simply behind the scenes when we do not see him during the first season. The coming-aboard after his Academy graduation is much more sensible, and makes for a good story as he must fit in with his new shipmates.

Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Scotty, and Sulu also get good moments here. The book was clearly written to feature Uhura and Chekov, but not to slight the other characters. That goal is accomplished with strong character bits for all, from Sulu's enthusiasm to McCoy's curmudgeon exterior, to Spock's always logical input. As always, Captain Kirk is the glue that holds it all together. It's a story that works on many levels.

For the first few chapters, the switch between scenes (and writers) is a bit stiff, but becomes much smoother as the book continues.

This book is a real page-turner, and it can be enjoyed by a variety of readers.