Star Trek S.C.E.: Foundations (Mass Market Paperback)

Set within a 24th century framing story that sees the crew of the USS da Vinci attempting a dramatic rescue of a runaway vessel, authors Dayton Ward and Kevin Dilmore take the reader back to three key S.C.E. missions set during the 23rd century in a tale that explores the origins and evolution of the Starfleet Corps of Engineers.

Utilizing flashbacks to tell a story certainly isn't original but it definitely works well in this instance. Each of the three flashback stories is a complete and interesting story on their own. Ward and Dilmore know how to engage your attention from the opening paragraph of a novel and spin a highly entertaining tale.

Originally released as an eBook trilogy in 2002, as a full-length novel Foundations is an even more effect story without the recapping needed when a story is broken down into individual parts. Well paced and carefully plotted, "Foundations" is mighty satisfying reading in a number of ways.

The 24th century framing story effectively sets up each jump back to the past while at the same time provides it's own interesting dilemma. Using the same characters, the crew of the USS Lovell, in each of the three flashbacks provides continuity and good flow to the overall narrative while at the same time allowing the reader to get to know and appreciate the characters, particularly Commander Mahmud al-Khaled. Al-Khaled, like the da Vinci's Commander Sonya Gomez, commands a crew of unique individuals you can't help but like.

Ward and Dilmore have a real knack for writing dialogue that very effectively brings the individual characters to life.

If you are not already a follower of this popular series, then give "Foundations" a try. It's a perfect opportunity to be introduced to a wonderful set of characters that fulfill a distinctive role and provide a fresh and unusual perspective to the Star Trek universe. Best of all, it's a fun read.

I enjoyed seeing the aftermath of the reckless Captain Kirk as he explored the galaxy. The problems he created and the SCE had to clean up, seemed very realistic and creative. Each adventure felt complete and help extend the adventures of the original Enterprise.

Since this was my first step into the SCE, I felt partially at a loss and out of touch with some characters. The book was great and I will be picking up more adventures with the SCE crew.