Crucible: Spock: The Fire and the Rose

As an avid Trekkie who has been intrigued by Mr. Spock, I've often wondered what happened to him after his last appearance on the Star Trek: Next Generation episode: "Reunification". This book also works from the common thread based on the Original Series episode: "The City on the Edge of Forever". It appears that the events that took place at the Guardian of Forever impacted Mr. Spock more than observers had realized. This tale also contains references to various TV episodes, both Original and Next Gen, as well as to the movies where Mr. Spock has appeared, (not counting the upcoming new movie due out in 2009). This tale also gives additional insight into Mr. Spock's homeworld, which I found gratifying.

A very good depiction of the inner struggles that Spock must deal with in his life as he trys to balance his human and Vulcan sides. It shows how one who can want something and then attain it, only to find that it's not really want he wants. A must read for all Spock fans out there.

I'm not sure I understand how David George has gotten inside the psyche of each of these characters, but he has. In "Provenance of Shadows", we learned more about McCoy then we had in 40 years. In "The Fire and the Rose", we learn how Spock changed when we weren't watching, what he was thinking and even, egads, what he was feeling. Be forewarned, I cried for about the last 120 pages of this book as if I was living the story. But let me be clear: I loved this book. This was yet another winner in the author's lengthening array of great novels and stories. Any author that can have me actually laughing out loud, sobbing and experiencing every emotion in between is on my list of "must read everything published by".

It is hard to write a useful review without giving away some of the book but I am going to try. David George has a sure winner here. This story of Spock is like a finely woven tapestry. It is a fine wine to be enjoyed and savored. David Georges characterizations of our familiar players are dead on accurate. This story is a very introspective look at Spock. I thought it would move slowly but I didnt find that to be the case at all. We see a more detailed take on City on the Edge of Forever and the effects it has on Spock over the years. The author is faithful to screen Trek in this book. I like the references to various characters from Star Trek that are woven into parts of this tale. A warning -- This book is so good be prepared to read it in one sitting, its almost impossible to put down. So if you dont have this book and have just finished reading my review get up and go to the store and buy this novel--buy two or three and give them to friends. Its a sure fire winner

I was sorry to come to the last page of this book, I did not want it to end. It was a compelling book to read and I enjoyed every page. Well worth reading, am looking forward to the last book of this trilogy.