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Star Trek: Klingon Empire #1
A Burning House
They have been the Federation's staunchest allies, and its fiercest adversaries. Cunning, ruthless, driven by an instinct for violence and defined by a complex code of honor, they must push ever outward in order to survive, defying the icy ravages of space with the fire of their hearts. They are the Klingons, and if you think you already know all there is to learn about them... think again.
From its highest echelons of power to the shocking depths of its lowest castes, from its savagely aggressive military to its humble farmers, from political machinations of galactic import to personal demons and family strife, the Klingon Empire is revealed as never before when the captain and crew of the I.K.S. Gorkon finally return to their homeworld of Qo'noS in a sweeping tale of intrigue, love, betrayal, and honor.
From its highest echelons of power to the shocking depths of its lowest castes, from its savagely aggressive military to its humble farmers, from political machinations of galactic import to personal demons and family strife, the Klingon Empire is revealed as never before when the captain and crew of the I.K.S. Gorkon finally return to their homeworld of Qo'noS in a sweeping tale of intrigue, love, betrayal, and honor.
403 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 1, 2008
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 5, 2023
I did not find this book enjoyable. Based upon the description from the book cover, it sounded like it would be a fascinating exploration of Klingon society within a gripping plot. In fact, it was nothing of the sort.
It's not really a "plot", but roughly 4 plot threads, none of which relate much to the other, each one boring.
I did not find my self caring one bit about any of the characters. Most were forgettable with forgettable names ---- there are so many that a dramatis personae at the beginning of the novel might have been helpful, given the various unconnected plot threads.
Sprinkled throughout the plot are Klingon words which the reader is evidently expected to be so much a Trekkie that he/she will know what those mean. There is a Klingon language glossary in the back, but I found it annoying having to reference it in order to know what they were talking about.
Then, there's the typical trope of early 2000s YA literature in which female main characters are generally typically depicted as of superior intelligence, leadership, and martial arts skills whereas the average male character is generally portrayed as a mediocrity, slow in body and mind, and average at best in strength and agility. No doubt part of a longstanding effort to grow the Star Trek franchise beyond its traditionally predominantly male fan base, but this one's so clumsily done and so obviously contrived that it's annoying to say the least.
There's a romance on a Klingon warship between its commander and its medical officer as well as other ones aboard the same ship between enlisteds in the same squad. Given the Klingon pronounced propensities to passion and aggressive behavior, it would seem that this would be even more an explosive element against shipboard discipline and mission effectiveness than its human counterparts --- which also have proven damaging in real life in the forms of fraternization, favoritism, and sexual harassment. As a retired Coast Guard officer with shipboard experience, I just didn't find these plot elements convincing. Yes, I know --- Klingons are a fictional species who may operate differently than humans --- however, the characterization of them is such that this behavior would be even more damaging to their military than it would be for humans in theirs, I think, given their nature.
Ok, so, in case this wasn't clear enough ---- I hated this book. Couldn't wait to finish it. I did not find it entertaining. But, even more egregious, they managed to take one of the most interesting species in the Star Trek franchise, Klingons, and make them boring and soap opera-ish.
It's not really a "plot", but roughly 4 plot threads, none of which relate much to the other, each one boring.
I did not find my self caring one bit about any of the characters. Most were forgettable with forgettable names ---- there are so many that a dramatis personae at the beginning of the novel might have been helpful, given the various unconnected plot threads.
Sprinkled throughout the plot are Klingon words which the reader is evidently expected to be so much a Trekkie that he/she will know what those mean. There is a Klingon language glossary in the back, but I found it annoying having to reference it in order to know what they were talking about.
Then, there's the typical trope of early 2000s YA literature in which female main characters are generally typically depicted as of superior intelligence, leadership, and martial arts skills whereas the average male character is generally portrayed as a mediocrity, slow in body and mind, and average at best in strength and agility. No doubt part of a longstanding effort to grow the Star Trek franchise beyond its traditionally predominantly male fan base, but this one's so clumsily done and so obviously contrived that it's annoying to say the least.
There's a romance on a Klingon warship between its commander and its medical officer as well as other ones aboard the same ship between enlisteds in the same squad. Given the Klingon pronounced propensities to passion and aggressive behavior, it would seem that this would be even more an explosive element against shipboard discipline and mission effectiveness than its human counterparts --- which also have proven damaging in real life in the forms of fraternization, favoritism, and sexual harassment. As a retired Coast Guard officer with shipboard experience, I just didn't find these plot elements convincing. Yes, I know --- Klingons are a fictional species who may operate differently than humans --- however, the characterization of them is such that this behavior would be even more damaging to their military than it would be for humans in theirs, I think, given their nature.
Ok, so, in case this wasn't clear enough ---- I hated this book. Couldn't wait to finish it. I did not find it entertaining. But, even more egregious, they managed to take one of the most interesting species in the Star Trek franchise, Klingons, and make them boring and soap opera-ish.
July 22, 2021
When reading a Star Trek story, I always appreciate books that shed light on the inner workings of the major players/races/species of the Trek universe. "A Burning House" is a look inside the Klingon Empire.
What makes this an interesting story is that it reads like a typical Star Trek novel. Crew members go on leave, the Captain finds himself in a wee bit of trouble and the Doctor is making waves with medical bureaucrats. Except these aren't the crew of the Enterprise, this is the crew of the I.K.S. Gowron and this is their story.
As the various crew members go on leave and interact with their families and Klingon society, they serve as a vehicle to learn about the Klingons. From mating rituals and food, to family functions and a very interesting look at normal Klingons. By normal I mean, civilian. Often the typical image of the Klingon is derived from the ones serving in the Defense Forces, but this book shines a light on farmers, small businessmen and entertainers. It's not a side of the Klingons we are used to seeing.
It was also interesting that the only Federation people to make an appearance in this story were Dr. Bashir, briefly, and Ambassador Worf. The story revolves around Klingons and I think it is better served for it. A good story, but one that becomes really good as it shows us the daily life of the Klingons on their home planets.
No worries, there is plenty of action, double-crossing, intrigue, and character building. Also a nod of respect to the image of Klingon Intelligence. Imperial Intelligence has a measure of subtlety and intrigue that is not often associated with the Klingons. These guys remind me more of Romulan Intelligence. Very interesting. I think this is a book for any Trek fan that wants to learn about the Klingons.
What makes this an interesting story is that it reads like a typical Star Trek novel. Crew members go on leave, the Captain finds himself in a wee bit of trouble and the Doctor is making waves with medical bureaucrats. Except these aren't the crew of the Enterprise, this is the crew of the I.K.S. Gowron and this is their story.
As the various crew members go on leave and interact with their families and Klingon society, they serve as a vehicle to learn about the Klingons. From mating rituals and food, to family functions and a very interesting look at normal Klingons. By normal I mean, civilian. Often the typical image of the Klingon is derived from the ones serving in the Defense Forces, but this book shines a light on farmers, small businessmen and entertainers. It's not a side of the Klingons we are used to seeing.
It was also interesting that the only Federation people to make an appearance in this story were Dr. Bashir, briefly, and Ambassador Worf. The story revolves around Klingons and I think it is better served for it. A good story, but one that becomes really good as it shows us the daily life of the Klingons on their home planets.
No worries, there is plenty of action, double-crossing, intrigue, and character building. Also a nod of respect to the image of Klingon Intelligence. Imperial Intelligence has a measure of subtlety and intrigue that is not often associated with the Klingons. These guys remind me more of Romulan Intelligence. Very interesting. I think this is a book for any Trek fan that wants to learn about the Klingons.
March 31, 2020
A purely enjoyable Star Trek novel and one which reminds me of the events of a typical episode. Nothing drastically world-changing occurs. It's not the plot to end all plots with consequences most dire for the entire universe if the characters fail (which seems to be the case with most forms of "entertainment" these days). It was a well-woven intermix of a few plots important to the characters involved, but relatively mundane to the world that all wrap up nicely. Somewhat of a "day in the life" in the Klingon Empire. I also very much enjoyed the expansion of Klingons who aren't involved in the Defense Force (i.e. warriors) and have "normal" lives and actually integrate with other species (*gasp* shocker!). :)
May 3, 2019
It is definitely with not a small amount of sadness that I say goodbye to the crew of the Gorkon. They certainly leave on a high note, as A Burning House wound up being my favorite book of the series. I love strong character moments, and this novel is packed full of them. I loved the look at Klingon culture in ways that we don't usually get: rather than the usual focus on the lives of Klingon warriors, we see farmers, actors, doctors, and see the effects that poverty and change have on the lives of average Klingons. I felt that A Burning House was an excellent exploration of Klingon culture in general, and I would have loved to see where the series would have gone in the future. As it stands, the four books that make up the I.K.S. Gorkon/Klingon Empire series are some of the best Trek novels I have read, and it is almost criminal that Keith R.A. DeCandido doesn't currently write for the Star Trek novel line. Come on, Simon & Schuster: give this man another contract!
Full review: https://www.treklit.com/2019/05/Burni...
Full review: https://www.treklit.com/2019/05/Burni...
August 11, 2024
This was great. Chokkas full of storylines but the one that we all cared the most about featured Rodek - not a major surprise following hints that we were given in the previous books of this series, but I thought it was surprising as a topic in general.
I admit to being a little lost in the myriad of stories taking place but I found it all very interesting. The 2nd epilogue hinted at a continuation which as far as I know was never followed up.
I admit to being a little lost in the myriad of stories taking place but I found it all very interesting. The 2nd epilogue hinted at a continuation which as far as I know was never followed up.
November 2, 2017
THE BURNING HOUSE is disappointingly the last of the Klingon Empire/I.K.S Gorkon novels and while it ends on a satisfying note, I can't help but think of the New Frontier novels by Peter David which lasted for a decade. It's perhaps better to quit while you're ahead but the fact there are "only" four books in the series disappoints me greatly. I am almost never lacking for Klingon content and thus will have to turn to other sources in order to get my fix.
The premise for this book is Captain Klag has returned to Kronos for some much needed R&R and to explain why he got the Klingon Empire in another war where they got heavily pounded despite the fact the aliens had no contact with other species. The other Klingons go to visit their families and deal with the fact life in the Klingon Defense Force is not all there is to be a child of Kahless.
Really, the big appeal of this book is the fact we get to see the Klingon Empire is not completely composed of soldiers and meet members of their race who are involved in manufacturing, opera, and farming. This has both good and bad points because: A. Obviously there are Klingons who are not warriors. B. It makes them a bit too human as Klingon society really starts to look like human society with just a dueling and professional fighting culture.
There's also a subplot about medical taboos and the fact the Klingon Surgeon General is hopelessly retrograde. I am both back and forth on this. I love plots about reforming cultures to be better but I never actually thought the Klingons were going to be bad at science or medicine. As one friend of me said, "The trick to playing Klingons is they're not stupid. They just act that way." I generally follow the view their blood knight philosophy ends generally whenever when it would make victory harder.
In short, I would think the Klingons would have great medicine rather than the opposite as you'd think they'd want to get their soldiers patched up quickly to send back in the field. Even orcs have great medicine in the Peter Jackson films as while they're cannon fodder, you don't want to waste a good tool and I wonder how many Klingons would want to live as invalids. Oh well, the issue was a source of decent intrigue throughout. Transplants were also very taboo in Japan so it's not an unheard of sentiment.
One thing the book does deal with that I appreciated was the handling of the "Kurn" plotline which I felt was resolved in an insane manner on DS9. For those unfamiliar with the episode, Worf's brother is suicidal after his discommendation so they wipe his mind and have him adopted by another house. The character became Rodek and served on the Gorkon without his memories of being a Son of Mogh. The ending to said plot is satisfying as it doesn't go all roses and sunshine.
In conclusion, it has been a long and fascinating ride that I'm sorry has ended here.
9/10
The premise for this book is Captain Klag has returned to Kronos for some much needed R&R and to explain why he got the Klingon Empire in another war where they got heavily pounded despite the fact the aliens had no contact with other species. The other Klingons go to visit their families and deal with the fact life in the Klingon Defense Force is not all there is to be a child of Kahless.
Really, the big appeal of this book is the fact we get to see the Klingon Empire is not completely composed of soldiers and meet members of their race who are involved in manufacturing, opera, and farming. This has both good and bad points because: A. Obviously there are Klingons who are not warriors. B. It makes them a bit too human as Klingon society really starts to look like human society with just a dueling and professional fighting culture.
There's also a subplot about medical taboos and the fact the Klingon Surgeon General is hopelessly retrograde. I am both back and forth on this. I love plots about reforming cultures to be better but I never actually thought the Klingons were going to be bad at science or medicine. As one friend of me said, "The trick to playing Klingons is they're not stupid. They just act that way." I generally follow the view their blood knight philosophy ends generally whenever when it would make victory harder.
In short, I would think the Klingons would have great medicine rather than the opposite as you'd think they'd want to get their soldiers patched up quickly to send back in the field. Even orcs have great medicine in the Peter Jackson films as while they're cannon fodder, you don't want to waste a good tool and I wonder how many Klingons would want to live as invalids. Oh well, the issue was a source of decent intrigue throughout. Transplants were also very taboo in Japan so it's not an unheard of sentiment.
One thing the book does deal with that I appreciated was the handling of the "Kurn" plotline which I felt was resolved in an insane manner on DS9. For those unfamiliar with the episode, Worf's brother is suicidal after his discommendation so they wipe his mind and have him adopted by another house. The character became Rodek and served on the Gorkon without his memories of being a Son of Mogh. The ending to said plot is satisfying as it doesn't go all roses and sunshine.
In conclusion, it has been a long and fascinating ride that I'm sorry has ended here.
9/10
May 12, 2020
For those who have read my Trek reviews, know I can not recommend Sarek and Spock’s World highly enough, even for non-Trek readers. While reading the Star Trek novels it is hit or miss, often a keen to playing Russian roulette, A Burning House hits the jackpot, up there with the likes of Sarek and Spock’s World.
I absolutely devoured this book and reveled in its gloriousness, truly worthy and guaranteed to bring honor to Qo’noS! Only a true petaQ will not recognize the greatness this book brings to the Empire! As a true Vulcanphile, I never had much interest in the Klingon because they seemed so one dimensional and volatile. The most familiar Klingon is Worf, who I am not a fan of to say the least. He seemed more of a dud than the most uptight, anal Vulcan ever could.
That is where this book comes in. Do not let Worf color your opinion about Klingons! As much as they are for codes of honor and are serious regarding war, they laugh, they love, they are a multifaceted people with amazing stories to tell besides brining dishonor to your family for not being a boring, stick in the mud (looking at you Worf 👀).
This book intertwines several stories of those serving on a Klingon war cruiser while on shore leave on Qo’noS and each story brings a new dimension to the Klingon mythos. Yes, this book ties up all lose ends and has happy endings for everyone. I know many do not like this because it is not realistic and serious literature but seriously? They are aliens! Who cares about reality! This book was such a refreshing break from the serial, multi volume, epic stories that litter fantasy and sci-fi. It was wonderful to see more than battle and misery with always being half satisfied with an ending. I truly look forward to reading more adventures about the amazing characters of the IKS Gorkon! Ps it was wonderful to see fully realized female Klingons in this book as well as seeing female Klingons move up in Klingon society. Qapla!
“Hem tlhlngan Segh ‘ej maHemtaH ‘e’ wlHech.”
(Klingons are a proud race, and we strive to go on being proud.)
- Azethbur, Chancellor to the Klingon High Counsel 2293
I absolutely devoured this book and reveled in its gloriousness, truly worthy and guaranteed to bring honor to Qo’noS! Only a true petaQ will not recognize the greatness this book brings to the Empire! As a true Vulcanphile, I never had much interest in the Klingon because they seemed so one dimensional and volatile. The most familiar Klingon is Worf, who I am not a fan of to say the least. He seemed more of a dud than the most uptight, anal Vulcan ever could.
That is where this book comes in. Do not let Worf color your opinion about Klingons! As much as they are for codes of honor and are serious regarding war, they laugh, they love, they are a multifaceted people with amazing stories to tell besides brining dishonor to your family for not being a boring, stick in the mud (looking at you Worf 👀).
This book intertwines several stories of those serving on a Klingon war cruiser while on shore leave on Qo’noS and each story brings a new dimension to the Klingon mythos. Yes, this book ties up all lose ends and has happy endings for everyone. I know many do not like this because it is not realistic and serious literature but seriously? They are aliens! Who cares about reality! This book was such a refreshing break from the serial, multi volume, epic stories that litter fantasy and sci-fi. It was wonderful to see more than battle and misery with always being half satisfied with an ending. I truly look forward to reading more adventures about the amazing characters of the IKS Gorkon! Ps it was wonderful to see fully realized female Klingons in this book as well as seeing female Klingons move up in Klingon society. Qapla!
“Hem tlhlngan Segh ‘ej maHemtaH ‘e’ wlHech.”
(Klingons are a proud race, and we strive to go on being proud.)
- Azethbur, Chancellor to the Klingon High Counsel 2293
January 11, 2021
I absolutely adore the world building the author does in his Klingon novels.
It really introduces the reader to the very day life of ordinary Klingons and even adds some interesting quirks like certain characters' love for the Vulcan vegan restaurant in the First City.
I thought things like these were a nice touch.
The story is nothing mind blowing, but interesting and captivating in it's own way, especially when you love learning more about alien cultures.
It really introduces the reader to the very day life of ordinary Klingons and even adds some interesting quirks like certain characters' love for the Vulcan vegan restaurant in the First City.
I thought things like these were a nice touch.
The story is nothing mind blowing, but interesting and captivating in it's own way, especially when you love learning more about alien cultures.
December 15, 2014
bIyIntaH 'e' Dachoqbe'!
Great story, makes the series better. Along with the rest of Klindom and Trekkers in general KRAD's novels leave me wanting more with each reading.
IKV Gorkon, and the Klingon Empire series are among of the best series of Star Trek novels to have on your shelf.
Great story, makes the series better. Along with the rest of Klindom and Trekkers in general KRAD's novels leave me wanting more with each reading.
IKV Gorkon, and the Klingon Empire series are among of the best series of Star Trek novels to have on your shelf.
December 27, 2020
Disclaimer: I did not know there were novels before this one, so did not read the previous IKS Gorkon novels. Something I will remedy soon.
I enjoyed this book. It was funny, the crew from the IKS Gorkon were characters you cared about, it had good tie-ins to the TV series, I enjoyed the resolution of Kurn and Worf, as well the storyline from Birthright TNG episodes.
I would recommend this to anyone who wants to catch a glimpse of Klingon everyday life, from the farmer feeding the Empire, to the opera house, and the high council chambers.
I enjoyed this book. It was funny, the crew from the IKS Gorkon were characters you cared about, it had good tie-ins to the TV series, I enjoyed the resolution of Kurn and Worf, as well the storyline from Birthright TNG episodes.
I would recommend this to anyone who wants to catch a glimpse of Klingon everyday life, from the farmer feeding the Empire, to the opera house, and the high council chambers.
March 23, 2026
This is a fantastic read! It follows some previous books with the same characters, but you don't have to have read any of them to enjoy this. I haven't read this book since it first came out. All I remember is absolutely enjoying all the Klingon books (or any Trek books) by DeCandido, and I was delighted to find that my past judgements of them were correct.
There's a big cast: all Klingons, and they've gone to Qo'noS for Captain Klag to attend a meeting held by Martok. The crew is getting some R&R and then go to several different places and it's nothing short of brilliant. Author DeCandido remains strongly rooted in all things Klingon shown in The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine while spectacularly expanding what's been shown before as well as developing the people that inhabit the homeworld. I don't want to spoil anything that occurs, except to say, there's love, drinking, action, and a neat development for a two-parter shown on TNG.
As I continue my reread of all my Trek novels, and I'm sure I purchased them all back in the day, I really find De Candido being one of my favorite writers. He is awesome. I cannot recommend this book enough.
There's a big cast: all Klingons, and they've gone to Qo'noS for Captain Klag to attend a meeting held by Martok. The crew is getting some R&R and then go to several different places and it's nothing short of brilliant. Author DeCandido remains strongly rooted in all things Klingon shown in The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine while spectacularly expanding what's been shown before as well as developing the people that inhabit the homeworld. I don't want to spoil anything that occurs, except to say, there's love, drinking, action, and a neat development for a two-parter shown on TNG.
As I continue my reread of all my Trek novels, and I'm sure I purchased them all back in the day, I really find De Candido being one of my favorite writers. He is awesome. I cannot recommend this book enough.
June 23, 2024
From what I can see there is only a short story left of this series which is really too bad as I have enjoyed all of it. This book is more like the Family episode to the IKS Gorkon Trilogy's Best of Both Worlds.
You see all the main characters of Klag, B'Oraq, Wol, G'Joth, Kurak, Toj and even Goran as they spend their time at home and truly discovering what home and family are and explored in the Klingon sense of it.
If this is the end I will miss these characters but I did enjoy the redemption and closure to some of their stories which were found here and appreciated that a book of this style was written. Hope more come but I know everyone doesn't always like the Klingon stuff.
You see all the main characters of Klag, B'Oraq, Wol, G'Joth, Kurak, Toj and even Goran as they spend their time at home and truly discovering what home and family are and explored in the Klingon sense of it.
If this is the end I will miss these characters but I did enjoy the redemption and closure to some of their stories which were found here and appreciated that a book of this style was written. Hope more come but I know everyone doesn't always like the Klingon stuff.
May 15, 2023
4/5. Technically this is Book 1 of the Klingon Empire series, but it really is also Book 4 of the I.K.S. Gorkon series. That being said, I have not read any of the Gorok books and still thoroughly enjoyed this one. I loved how it picked up and continued on serval minor character storylines from TNG and DS9, and brought them together into one tied in novel. I'd heard some people say this book is a little slow and boring, and I can see why people may think that, but I'd highly recommend this to anyone interested in reading about the day to day of non-warrior class Klingons.
February 17, 2022
At first when I realized this book didn't have any major plot I was disappointed and a little bored in the beginning. However, the story soon took off and turned into quite a good book. I got to know the characters well and their lives and was very satisfied with the ending.
June 8, 2018
Klingons remain one of my top three aliens in Star Trek. This was a great read.
November 11, 2016
I absolutely loved this series as a whole, but the last book didn't measure up for me. Mostly, I'm not a fan of "a slice of life" stories, and that's what the majority of this book is about. There were, however, some issues that I thought harmed the book as a whole.
Rodek didn't really feel in character throughout the book for me. I didn't buy into his thought process during the event we've been waiting for for over 6 books now. It was suppose to be the biggest build up in the book, considering it had a firm footing in the TV series, but it felt underwhelming, and rushed (or poorly thought out) to the point that I didn't buy into it.
Also, I never quite understood the whole reason they recalled the ships. Yeah, I understood the excuse given, but I didn't feel it was the least bit plausible. It seemed odd to me that Klingons could die so easily because of an insult, or because they didn't repair something quick enough, yet we have this childish (and seemingly pointless) behavior that wastes the time of the entire fleet, but no one is punished. It was just bizarre.
The ending of the book also left so many questions. I thought the author was going in a specific direction, but it never got there. Worse yet, it seemed like he wrote himself into a corner, and an entire story line (if not two) felt entirely unresolved. Perhaps, this book was suppose to be a book 1 of a new series? That's all that I could fathom from how it ended. I would have liked to see a little hint about what was to come, you know, just in case another book was never made.
Even with the trouble I had buying any of the explanations for any of the events, I do believe the book is enjoyable and worth reading, especially since it's the last of the series. While the plot points seemed to be rather superficial, the characters were fun to read.
ST books, on average, tend to be a bit sub-par, in my experience. In comparison, the Gorkon series was a step (if not two) above the rest. It's probably the only series that I would consider reading again, sometime in the future. I hope those that have not given it a try (and care at all about Klingsons) would do so. I'd also like to thank the author for doing such a good job.
Qapla'
Rodek didn't really feel in character throughout the book for me. I didn't buy into his thought process during the event we've been waiting for for over 6 books now. It was suppose to be the biggest build up in the book, considering it had a firm footing in the TV series, but it felt underwhelming, and rushed (or poorly thought out) to the point that I didn't buy into it.
Also, I never quite understood the whole reason they recalled the ships. Yeah, I understood the excuse given, but I didn't feel it was the least bit plausible. It seemed odd to me that Klingons could die so easily because of an insult, or because they didn't repair something quick enough, yet we have this childish (and seemingly pointless) behavior that wastes the time of the entire fleet, but no one is punished. It was just bizarre.
The ending of the book also left so many questions. I thought the author was going in a specific direction, but it never got there. Worse yet, it seemed like he wrote himself into a corner, and an entire story line (if not two) felt entirely unresolved. Perhaps, this book was suppose to be a book 1 of a new series? That's all that I could fathom from how it ended. I would have liked to see a little hint about what was to come, you know, just in case another book was never made.
Even with the trouble I had buying any of the explanations for any of the events, I do believe the book is enjoyable and worth reading, especially since it's the last of the series. While the plot points seemed to be rather superficial, the characters were fun to read.
ST books, on average, tend to be a bit sub-par, in my experience. In comparison, the Gorkon series was a step (if not two) above the rest. It's probably the only series that I would consider reading again, sometime in the future. I hope those that have not given it a try (and care at all about Klingsons) would do so. I'd also like to thank the author for doing such a good job.
Qapla'
August 20, 2008
I love Trek and I love Klingons, but beyond Worf and a very few other Klingons who were on for several episodes, I don’t typically remember their names or which warrior was who. This novel which is set on Q’o’nos, and is book # 4 in the IKS Gorkon series, of which I have only read book #1, should have been very hard for me to follow, but was instead thoroughly enjoyable and a fun ride.
It's been said that it's through watching people that are *not* human, we ourselves learn more about what it is to be human ourselves. In 'A Buring House', Keith shows us that Klingons are not only warriors, but range all over the spectrum of psychological possibility, capable of being both more and less than the much vaunted myth and reality of blood and honor that the Klingon military lives by. This book reminds us that a nation’s military is not the whole of the culture, but that also when you get down to it, Klingon soldiers and officers come from the same wide expanse of cultural experience that we do.
Through the eyes of the common soldiers (or Bekks, to use proper terminology) Keith shows us the Klingon underclass, both in the depths of the inner city and out on rural farming land. Through the paradigm-changing Doctor B'Oraq, we learn more about the medical community (or lack therof) on Kronos, her peers seem to want their patients to die of their wounds, rather than learn techniques to save them from the Federation. And there is, of course still political and familial conflict aplenty as there is in most Klingon stories, culminating in a scene in front of the Klingon High Coucil.
It's been said that it's through watching people that are *not* human, we ourselves learn more about what it is to be human ourselves. In 'A Buring House', Keith shows us that Klingons are not only warriors, but range all over the spectrum of psychological possibility, capable of being both more and less than the much vaunted myth and reality of blood and honor that the Klingon military lives by. This book reminds us that a nation’s military is not the whole of the culture, but that also when you get down to it, Klingon soldiers and officers come from the same wide expanse of cultural experience that we do.
Through the eyes of the common soldiers (or Bekks, to use proper terminology) Keith shows us the Klingon underclass, both in the depths of the inner city and out on rural farming land. Through the paradigm-changing Doctor B'Oraq, we learn more about the medical community (or lack therof) on Kronos, her peers seem to want their patients to die of their wounds, rather than learn techniques to save them from the Federation. And there is, of course still political and familial conflict aplenty as there is in most Klingon stories, culminating in a scene in front of the Klingon High Coucil.
October 23, 2011
I've put off reading Mr. DeCandido for too long, it seems. This book was awesome from beginning to end.
A Burning House follows the exploits of a group of Klingon's on shore leave. These particular Klingons have won glory for the Empire aboard the IKS Gorkon. Things were going okay but could be better. For the majority of these characters, life gets a whole lot worse before it gets better.
I don't want to say too much about the various plot strings except to say they were very well done. The book moved along at a wonderful pace, never getting boring even as we are introduced to much more about Klingons than their normal bat'leth wielding ways. We find Klingons who love, lost, and in many ways remind us of ourselves. Mr. DeCandido does a good job of illustrating that Klingons and Humans have much in common, even if we have many differences. This could certainly be taken another step and be used as a subtle reminder not to judge based on looks alone. A call for tolerance among races, if you will. I think this fits nicely with Gene Roddenberry's original vision.
This book has convinced me to read more from Star Trek authors. I know they get a bad reputation for 'only' being Star Trek authors but if this gem is any example, I want to know how good these authors can get.
A Burning House follows the exploits of a group of Klingon's on shore leave. These particular Klingons have won glory for the Empire aboard the IKS Gorkon. Things were going okay but could be better. For the majority of these characters, life gets a whole lot worse before it gets better.
I don't want to say too much about the various plot strings except to say they were very well done. The book moved along at a wonderful pace, never getting boring even as we are introduced to much more about Klingons than their normal bat'leth wielding ways. We find Klingons who love, lost, and in many ways remind us of ourselves. Mr. DeCandido does a good job of illustrating that Klingons and Humans have much in common, even if we have many differences. This could certainly be taken another step and be used as a subtle reminder not to judge based on looks alone. A call for tolerance among races, if you will. I think this fits nicely with Gene Roddenberry's original vision.
This book has convinced me to read more from Star Trek authors. I know they get a bad reputation for 'only' being Star Trek authors but if this gem is any example, I want to know how good these authors can get.
January 17, 2016
I've never had a particular passion for the Klingons - you won't find me dressed up as one at a convention or learning the language in my free time. (Nor did I get married with a bat'leth...you have to wonder about people who did.) I did enjoy this book though.
This is technically the end of the I.K.S. Gorkon series, but it serves as a standalone novel also (which is good since I haven't read the Gorkon series). The ship returns to Qo'noS and the crew delve into everyday life, complete with political scheming, cultural change, and conflicting ideas of honor. Ambassador Worf plays an interesting part in the tale. By the end of the book I thought that everyone's House was burning in some fashion.
The conclusion: Anyone who hates this book is a senseless petaQ.
Qapla'!
This is technically the end of the I.K.S. Gorkon series, but it serves as a standalone novel also (which is good since I haven't read the Gorkon series). The ship returns to Qo'noS and the crew delve into everyday life, complete with political scheming, cultural change, and conflicting ideas of honor. Ambassador Worf plays an interesting part in the tale. By the end of the book I thought that everyone's House was burning in some fashion.
The conclusion: Anyone who hates this book is a senseless petaQ.
Qapla'!
July 18, 2015
Klingon life.
Loved the way this author gives a view into everyday life of Klingon society. Unlike other stories that involved Klingon... this novel covers Klingon who aren't warriors and that is refreshing to me. Sure this book has Klingon warriors but you see how the Klingon culture isn't just about fighting an enemy to bring honor, in fact you get a wonderful story about farm life, business, poverty, of klingons and the the way they handle Life. While there isn't much action it is an awesome story!!
Loved the way this author gives a view into everyday life of Klingon society. Unlike other stories that involved Klingon... this novel covers Klingon who aren't warriors and that is refreshing to me. Sure this book has Klingon warriors but you see how the Klingon culture isn't just about fighting an enemy to bring honor, in fact you get a wonderful story about farm life, business, poverty, of klingons and the the way they handle Life. While there isn't much action it is an awesome story!!
June 30, 2010
Another in a series of books looking at events on the Klingon side of the Star Trek universe. It continues to focus on the the officers and crewmen aboard a Klingon starship, and in government. Some of the characters have been on TV before, and a few are new, but all are interesting and unique and worthy of following.
April 6, 2014
This is actually the first Trek side story I've read.
Coming from someone who stopped watching DS9 a few episodes before Jadzia's death and not having prior knowledge of any other book storylines, I have to say it doesn't leave you confused much as far as plot goes.
The fact that it is Keith who wrote this and the return of Rodek/Kurn is really made me won me over though.
Coming from someone who stopped watching DS9 a few episodes before Jadzia's death and not having prior knowledge of any other book storylines, I have to say it doesn't leave you confused much as far as plot goes.
The fact that it is Keith who wrote this and the return of Rodek/Kurn is really made me won me over though.
March 28, 2015
For those who are fans of Klingon "culture", this might (or might not) rate another star. For old-line Star Trek fans like me, who prefer their alienated aliens vulcan, it is a moderately interesting look into the lives of the crew of the Gorkon, but mostly it just reinforces just what we hate about Klingon society.
August 16, 2016
This tetralogy is an enjoyable look at Klingon culture (one of the more interesting cultures in the StarTrek universe) and a satisfying summer read in between other concerns. I recommend Keith Decandido's StarTrek writing above many others who write in that universe! Happy August reading!
November 26, 2021
Very entertaining series if you love Klingons. If you don't love Klingons you will after you start reading A Good Day to Die. The author interjects characters from the Star Trek universe, mainly TNG and DS9 and creates a very unique story.
June 6, 2008
I started this before Lent, then set it aside until after Easter. I had to re-read everything! It's good to see the crew of the Gorkon again. I wonder whose house will burn?
December 17, 2020
Excellent
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