Homecoming/The Farther Shore

The Enterprise War

Russ and Madelyn read The Enterprise War by John Jackson Miller and discuss Battle Suit Spock, some very out-of-date Number One characterization, and whether Katarians have horns. Note: This episode was recorded well before Strange New Worlds debuted, and some of the conversation reflects that fact.

The Return

Russ and Madelyn read The Return by Judith and Garfield Reeves-Stevens and Psych guest star William Shatner, and discuss Kirk's characterization, how well the novel does and doesn't tie into the broader Star Trek universe, and which Star Trek is the hipster Star Trek.

Homecoming/The Farther Shore

Russ and Madelyn read Homecoming and The Farther Shore by Christie Golden, and discuss the Voyager finale's missed opportunities, the frustrating historical revisionism and centrism of the books' plot, and Riker's pizza-making abilities. This episode contains brief and non-graphic discussion of sexual assault and violence against women. To avoid those discussions, you can skip from 00:45:30 to 00:47:00, and 00:51:15 to 00:51:37.

The Rihannsu Series, Books 1 and 2

Russ and Madelyn read My Enemy, My Ally by Diane Duane and The Romulan Way by Diane Duane and Peter Morwood, and discuss Romulan culture, whether Vulcans are really matriarchal, and Steve Perry's departure from Journey.

Imzadi

In this special Valentine's Day episode, Russ and Madelyn read Imzadi by Peter David, and discuss Star Trek romance, the treatment of Orion women in the franchise, and sex on a jungle floor. (This episode was recorded prior to the release of Lower Decks. We love and are super excited about Tendi, but we didn't know about her at the time!)