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The Enterprise is on a peaceful mission at Starbase 12, and Spock is visiting aboard a Klingon vessel, when a mysterious phenomenon causes the Klingon ship to vanish. Spock's last message from the ship is cryptic, but frightening. It suggests that the Klingons are traveling into the past, hoping to kill one man who was decisive in the course of history, and thereby change it, destroying the Federation before it was born.
255 pages, Paperback
First published March 2, 1985
About the author
Barbara Hambly
214 books1,476 followersaka Barbara Hamilton
Ranging from fantasy to historical fiction, Barbara Hambly has a masterful way of spinning a story. Her twisty plots involve memorable characters, lavish descriptions, scads of novel words, and interesting devices. Her work spans the Star Wars universe, antebellum New Orleans, and various fantasy worlds, sometimes linked with our own.
"I always wanted to be a writer but everyone kept telling me it was impossible to break into the field or make money. I've proven them wrong on both counts."
-Barbara Hambly
Ranging from fantasy to historical fiction, Barbara Hambly has a masterful way of spinning a story. Her twisty plots involve memorable characters, lavish descriptions, scads of novel words, and interesting devices. Her work spans the Star Wars universe, antebellum New Orleans, and various fantasy worlds, sometimes linked with our own.
"I always wanted to be a writer but everyone kept telling me it was impossible to break into the field or make money. I've proven them wrong on both counts."
-Barbara Hambly
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
June 13, 2023
OOOOOOOOOOhhhhhhhhh! This is bad. When one is reading a Star Trek novel, one expects Star Trek. It really is not that complicated folks! I am a simple geek. I expect that a novel heralding itself as a Star Trek novel to be speculative Science Fiction with the beloved characters of a favored TV program. This unfortunately for me is really a retrospective on Westerns of a bygone age. The references to Western TV shows and movies just went over my head. It apparently is a beloved book, and I hate shitting all over other people’s enjoyment, but I have to say that as a Star Trek novel this is a BIG avoid and warning to other readers. No thanks! This is not about Spock or McCoy! This character is NOT Spock, the main cast doesn't behave like the main cast, and this novel is not Star Trek.
November 19, 2012
I still re-read this book occasionally. It remains a sentimental favorite. I grew up watching 60s westerns in re-runs in the 70s. In this book, Barbara Hambly did a wonderful job of tying together ST:TOS and "Here Comes the Brides".
Spock plays chess with Paladin from the TV series Have Gun Will Travel. Doctor Who is referenced four times. Little Joe and his brother "Hoss" Cartwright from Bonanza show up. One of the Maverick brothers is there. Matt Dillon (Gunsmoke), Lucas McCain (The Rifleman), The Rawhide Kid (Rawhide), and Eastwood's Man With No Name also appear. One of the main characters in the book was also a character from "Here Comes the Brides," Aaron Stempel (played by Mark Lenard who also played Spock's father Sarek) And yes, the similarity is noticed and becomes part of the plot.
The novel resolves the fate of the characters from HCtB, which never occurred on-screen due to the series' cancellation.
Here is its Memory Beta page: http://bit.ly/9CQIth
If you enjoyed any of those shows or characters or you're just a fan of Star Trek: TOS, this is one of the best written, plotted and most chock-a-block full of inside references you'll ever read. If you find it at the used book store or online, buy it, you won't regret it.
Spock plays chess with Paladin from the TV series Have Gun Will Travel. Doctor Who is referenced four times. Little Joe and his brother "Hoss" Cartwright from Bonanza show up. One of the Maverick brothers is there. Matt Dillon (Gunsmoke), Lucas McCain (The Rifleman), The Rawhide Kid (Rawhide), and Eastwood's Man With No Name also appear. One of the main characters in the book was also a character from "Here Comes the Brides," Aaron Stempel (played by Mark Lenard who also played Spock's father Sarek) And yes, the similarity is noticed and becomes part of the plot.
The novel resolves the fate of the characters from HCtB, which never occurred on-screen due to the series' cancellation.
Here is its Memory Beta page: http://bit.ly/9CQIth
If you enjoyed any of those shows or characters or you're just a fan of Star Trek: TOS, this is one of the best written, plotted and most chock-a-block full of inside references you'll ever read. If you find it at the used book store or online, buy it, you won't regret it.
August 21, 2022
Is it historical fiction or space opera? It's a combination of both...and a great one, too!
June 14, 2020
I quite enjoyed this, essentially a story about Spock re-discovering himself and exploring his human side after suffering total amnesia and being transported back in time to mid-19th century pioneer era Seattle. This setting, and the characters involved, are apparently from the TV series Here Come the Brides, that I wasn't familiar with, and which ran from 1968-1970. Among others, it starred Mark Lenard, who Trekkies will recognize as the actor who played Sarek, Spock's father and Vulcan ambassador extraordinaire on ST TOS.
Anyway, before his displacement in time and space, Spock manages to leave behind a cryptic series of clues that the Enterprise must decipher if they are to have any hope in finding him. He must also evade the Klingon agents, also sent back in time, from altering Earth's past to their own advantage. Not the most novel plot, and there is some backstory on the Klingons that doesn't jibe with Trek canon, but an endearing story nonetheless and some elegant prose from Hambly make it an enjoyable read.
Anyway, before his displacement in time and space, Spock manages to leave behind a cryptic series of clues that the Enterprise must decipher if they are to have any hope in finding him. He must also evade the Klingon agents, also sent back in time, from altering Earth's past to their own advantage. Not the most novel plot, and there is some backstory on the Klingons that doesn't jibe with Trek canon, but an endearing story nonetheless and some elegant prose from Hambly make it an enjoyable read.
September 5, 2017
One of my favorite ST novels, it was also my introduction to Barbara Hambly, who is a marvelous writer with absolutely lyrical turns of phrase. Not to mention very amusing.
Ishmael waited politely for a continuation of the sentence. When none seemed forthcoming, he said, "'Dammit, Ishmael' does not seem to be an argument remarkable for its cogency, Aaron."
and
". . . Well, there might be talk."
"And talk, I suppose, is more to be dreaded than pneumonia?"
"Oh, yes! You can always get over pneumonia."
There's a reason this is one of my reread-about-every-6-months books.
Ishmael waited politely for a continuation of the sentence. When none seemed forthcoming, he said, "'Dammit, Ishmael' does not seem to be an argument remarkable for its cogency, Aaron."
and
". . . Well, there might be talk."
"And talk, I suppose, is more to be dreaded than pneumonia?"
"Oh, yes! You can always get over pneumonia."
There's a reason this is one of my reread-about-every-6-months books.
September 14, 2023
Star Trek: Ishmael is a Star Trek (The Original Series) #23 novel written by Barbara Hambly and was released by Pocket Books in May of 1985.
This is a very classic Star Trek book, and it worked for me on many levels.
The first thing about this book that works so well is that it’s a time travel novel. Hambly deftly writes a Star Trek time-travel story before the most famous Star Trek time travel stories (The Voyage Home and First Contact) were made. It focuses on Spock, who get thrown into the past and doesn’t remember who he is, why he is there, or really anything else.
The whole storyline with Aaron Stemple and “Ishmael” is what really made the book! This story felt fresh and unique in the science fiction genre, and felt like a blending of historical fiction with an alien encounter. The dialogue, the story, and the characters were all fascinating and intriguing. If the book had entirely been this storyline, it would have been a top shelf Trek novel.
Interestingly, the weakest part of the book was the stuff with Kirk and the Enterprise Crew. It seems like Hambly didn’t have much of a story for them, but felt obligated to include them and make them a central part of the book. It really felt mediocre and a lot like other Trek novels that I’ve read. The mystery here wasn’t that strong, and the characters were just fine. It needed more of a storyline to really feel impactful.
In many ways, this book serves as a similar book to Dayton Ward’s “From History’s Shadows”. Both books have time travel/historical elements as well as alien invasion/first contact elements. I think both books are really well done!
The themes about Spock having to decide how he will live in this new land was really strong. His discussions about helping the women near the mountain in Seattle was just heartfelt and really in character.
The humor was also great when it was present, especially when Spock was juxtaposed with the people of Seattle.
The reveals near the end of the book (literally on the last page) were brilliant and I absolutely didn’t see it coming…but it totally makes sense. For that alone Hambly has earned applause for surprising me so much. Don’t spoil yourself if you haven’t read the book, the last page should really be a treat!
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The stuff with Spock in the flashback was amazing, top tier Star Trek storytelling. Unfortunately, the Kirk/Enterprise storyline was weak and mediocre, and thus dragged down the book a bit. I’ll give the overall book an 8 out of 10! Great work Hambly.
This is a very classic Star Trek book, and it worked for me on many levels.
The first thing about this book that works so well is that it’s a time travel novel. Hambly deftly writes a Star Trek time-travel story before the most famous Star Trek time travel stories (The Voyage Home and First Contact) were made. It focuses on Spock, who get thrown into the past and doesn’t remember who he is, why he is there, or really anything else.
The whole storyline with Aaron Stemple and “Ishmael” is what really made the book! This story felt fresh and unique in the science fiction genre, and felt like a blending of historical fiction with an alien encounter. The dialogue, the story, and the characters were all fascinating and intriguing. If the book had entirely been this storyline, it would have been a top shelf Trek novel.
Interestingly, the weakest part of the book was the stuff with Kirk and the Enterprise Crew. It seems like Hambly didn’t have much of a story for them, but felt obligated to include them and make them a central part of the book. It really felt mediocre and a lot like other Trek novels that I’ve read. The mystery here wasn’t that strong, and the characters were just fine. It needed more of a storyline to really feel impactful.
In many ways, this book serves as a similar book to Dayton Ward’s “From History’s Shadows”. Both books have time travel/historical elements as well as alien invasion/first contact elements. I think both books are really well done!
The themes about Spock having to decide how he will live in this new land was really strong. His discussions about helping the women near the mountain in Seattle was just heartfelt and really in character.
The humor was also great when it was present, especially when Spock was juxtaposed with the people of Seattle.
The reveals near the end of the book (literally on the last page) were brilliant and I absolutely didn’t see it coming…but it totally makes sense. For that alone Hambly has earned applause for surprising me so much. Don’t spoil yourself if you haven’t read the book, the last page should really be a treat!
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The stuff with Spock in the flashback was amazing, top tier Star Trek storytelling. Unfortunately, the Kirk/Enterprise storyline was weak and mediocre, and thus dragged down the book a bit. I’ll give the overall book an 8 out of 10! Great work Hambly.
March 13, 2015
When I was 16, I discovered Star Trek, and wanting more than the 79 episodes I sought out the novels - soon discovering that quality varied wildly, from dead-on characterizations and very good writing to really bad generic sci fi novels couched in ST to make an extra buck. One of the good ones, one of the really, really good ones was by Barbara Hambly - talk about your excellent fanfic! Ishmael is, though I had no idea when I first read it or for a long time after, a crossover story, in which Spock is captured by Klingons and winds up through a sequence of events that make perfect sense if you're a Trekkie back in Seattle of 1867. It was only years later that I discovered (I think because of Bjo Trimble) that the characters he encounters in the tiny logging town of Seattle weren't Ms. Hambly's inventions but characters from another TV series: "Here Come the Brides". It was a series starting in 1968, starring Robert Brown, David Soul (yes, that David Soul), Bobby Sherman (yes, that Bobby Sherman) - and Mark Lenard, aka Sarek of Vulcan. (Hence part of the joy of the crossover.) I'd never heard of it, and I don't think I've heard of it since apart from fannish mentions in connection with the book. The wonderful thing is – it's available on Netflix. When worlds collide…
This is one my old favorite comfort books, a perfect Star Trek novel which introduced me to Ms. Hambly – for which I will forgive almost all of the vagaries of the rest of the novel series. This one's a wonder, whether or not you know anything about "Here Come the Brides".
This is one my old favorite comfort books, a perfect Star Trek novel which introduced me to Ms. Hambly – for which I will forgive almost all of the vagaries of the rest of the novel series. This one's a wonder, whether or not you know anything about "Here Come the Brides".
December 18, 2017
One of my favorite Star Trek novels; which, as it happens, features the cast of the contemporaneous TV series, "Here Come the Brides." The story switches scenes back and forth between the final frontier in the 23rd Century and America’s western frontier in the 19th century.
At a space station near Klingon space, Kirk and McCoy try to decipher a cryptic message from Spock who has been apprehended aboard a Klingon ship which has departed into Earth's past to sabotage the Federation before it is even founded.
Meanwhile in humanity’s past, Spock escapes and is found by Aaron Stemple of Seattle, Washington in the year 1867. Unfortunately, Spock has lost his memory after being subjected to the Klingon mind-scanner. Aaron arranges for him to be accepted into the community as his nephew Ishmael, and Spock has many opportunities to express his alien perspective about human culture, and about the peculiar circumstances involving a bet between Aaron and the three Bolt brothers, which has resulted in 100 young women being brought from Massachusetts to Seattle to become brides to the Bolts loggers.
Spock also meets several other television characters from other TV series during trips to San Francisco where he encounters: Hoss and Little Joe Cartwright from "Bonanza", the “Emperor of North America” (who also appeared on "Bonanza"), one or the other of the Maverick brothers, and even beats Paladin from "Have Gun-Will Travel" at chess. Back in the 23rd Century, the other Enterprise crewmembers also encounter characters from other Sci-Fi series, Starbuck and Apollo from "Battlestar Galactica", and two different Doctors from "Doctor Who".
In the end, Spock has a profound impact on the community of Seattle, and as it happens, a distant familial connection among them, which Kirk discovers after reviewing Spock's personnel file.
At a space station near Klingon space, Kirk and McCoy try to decipher a cryptic message from Spock who has been apprehended aboard a Klingon ship which has departed into Earth's past to sabotage the Federation before it is even founded.
Meanwhile in humanity’s past, Spock escapes and is found by Aaron Stemple of Seattle, Washington in the year 1867. Unfortunately, Spock has lost his memory after being subjected to the Klingon mind-scanner. Aaron arranges for him to be accepted into the community as his nephew Ishmael, and Spock has many opportunities to express his alien perspective about human culture, and about the peculiar circumstances involving a bet between Aaron and the three Bolt brothers, which has resulted in 100 young women being brought from Massachusetts to Seattle to become brides to the Bolts loggers.
Spock also meets several other television characters from other TV series during trips to San Francisco where he encounters: Hoss and Little Joe Cartwright from "Bonanza", the “Emperor of North America” (who also appeared on "Bonanza"), one or the other of the Maverick brothers, and even beats Paladin from "Have Gun-Will Travel" at chess. Back in the 23rd Century, the other Enterprise crewmembers also encounter characters from other Sci-Fi series, Starbuck and Apollo from "Battlestar Galactica", and two different Doctors from "Doctor Who".
In the end, Spock has a profound impact on the community of Seattle, and as it happens, a distant familial connection among them, which Kirk discovers after reviewing Spock's personnel file.
March 26, 2011
Don't stop reading, but the best description of this novel for those of us old enough to remember Star Trek the original series first run, is Mr. Spock meets 'Here Come the Brides.' As I read this novel twenty-five years ago (this review is being written in March 2011), I remember figuring this out and thinking that the author couldn't pull it off. What an absurd idea. I also remember finishing the novel and thinking, "By George, she did it!" It is a wonderful extravaganga through television memories of the past and through the Star Trek universe. Twenty-five years later, I am still raving about it. Well done, Ms. Hambly!
February 18, 2023
Have you ever read "official" fan fiction? Well, here you go. If you love "Star Trek" and you love "Here Come The Brides," then you are in luck! Thanks to Klingon time-travel shenanigans, Spock is hurtled back in time to Seattle in 1867, to prevent the Klingons from altering the timestream, and making Earth the vassal of the Karsid Empire. Were it not for Aaron Stemple, and Aaron Stemple alone, thus would have been the fate of Humanity. And, apparently, Spock's mother, Amanda, is a descendant of said Mr. Stemple.
Interspersed between Spock's chapters are chapters detailing Kirk's attempts to find out what happened to Spock and get him back.
It wasn't the worst Star Trek novel I ever read, and could have been one of those fun crossover episodes had both shows been running concurrently.
Interspersed between Spock's chapters are chapters detailing Kirk's attempts to find out what happened to Spock and get him back.
It wasn't the worst Star Trek novel I ever read, and could have been one of those fun crossover episodes had both shows been running concurrently.
September 4, 2023
Star Trek Discovery has me excited about Trek in a way that I haven't been in ages. AGES, I tell you. It feels amazing. And is inspiring a swing through my most favorite Trek novels. I started with the Sarek chapter of Spock's World (and assorted other bits - it's still an easy one to dip into). And now I've flown through this one in the last two days.
Ishmael was my first Trek novel and I adore it as much as ever. The first time I snuck it off my mom's bookshelf I had no idea that the TV show Here Come the Brides ever existed - I assumed all of the 1867 characters were Hambly creations. Blew my mind when I found out otherwise. (As it turned out, the reason Mom had the book in the first place is that it was a gift from an old friend - and they watched both shows together when they were kids. Awww.)
Anyway, it's been almost 20 years (ack), and I've still never seen an episode of Here Come the Brides, so I'm making some assumptions. But one of the things I really appreciated about Ishmael on this read is that by placing Spock in the middle of Here Come the Brides, Hambly uses him to comment on the sexism inherent in the situation, namely the unfairness of trying to rush the young women into marriages in a limited time. Hambly makes these conversations completely organic within the story - they don't feel forced at all - but there are three or four points where he's in a position to say, Hey. You're playing with other people's lives here. Or, You can make the choice that's best for you instead of doing what's conventional. Feminist Spock forever, please.
But at its heart, the reason this book is so readable - and re-readable - and still stands up even as it gets increasingly amusing for Kirk to receive interstellar faxes or talk about 23rd century computers that take up whole rooms - is that Hambly is excellent at writing people. In her hands, the characters feel like people, not caricatures. They have depth and individuality and growth. And crucially, the Star Trek people sound and feel like themselves. It's so great.
I think Strangers from the Sky is also calling out for a reread, but maybe after I finish a few other things. My other favorite time-travel-Spock-got-stranded book, but with more Vulcans...
Ishmael was my first Trek novel and I adore it as much as ever. The first time I snuck it off my mom's bookshelf I had no idea that the TV show Here Come the Brides ever existed - I assumed all of the 1867 characters were Hambly creations. Blew my mind when I found out otherwise. (As it turned out, the reason Mom had the book in the first place is that it was a gift from an old friend - and they watched both shows together when they were kids. Awww.)
Anyway, it's been almost 20 years (ack), and I've still never seen an episode of Here Come the Brides, so I'm making some assumptions. But one of the things I really appreciated about Ishmael on this read is that by placing Spock in the middle of Here Come the Brides, Hambly uses him to comment on the sexism inherent in the situation, namely the unfairness of trying to rush the young women into marriages in a limited time. Hambly makes these conversations completely organic within the story - they don't feel forced at all - but there are three or four points where he's in a position to say, Hey. You're playing with other people's lives here. Or, You can make the choice that's best for you instead of doing what's conventional. Feminist Spock forever, please.
But at its heart, the reason this book is so readable - and re-readable - and still stands up even as it gets increasingly amusing for Kirk to receive interstellar faxes or talk about 23rd century computers that take up whole rooms - is that Hambly is excellent at writing people. In her hands, the characters feel like people, not caricatures. They have depth and individuality and growth. And crucially, the Star Trek people sound and feel like themselves. It's so great.
I think Strangers from the Sky is also calling out for a reread, but maybe after I finish a few other things. My other favorite time-travel-Spock-got-stranded book, but with more Vulcans...
May 13, 2020
First off, I’m a huge Star Trek fan. Secondly, Star Trek novels are not high literature and have a certain niche audience and we know who we are. The purpose of Trek novels are to engage the reader in more adventures and delve deeper into the worlds and characters we already know and love. With these two premises as foundation, keep them in mind as you read my review.
Generally, I actually enjoy the original TOS novels even though they are often easy fodder for others. I do not go into them with high expectations of lyrical writing and soul searching characterizations and plots that deftly utilize literary mechanisms. But, they are fun, exciting, and entertaining!
One of my favorite things about the Trek universe and TOS is Vulcans and Vulcan culture. ( If you are looking for a great Trek novel, especially with Vulcans and from TOS, an absolute must read is Sarek.) I was searching for another Vulcan-centric novel and this book kept popping up. All I saw were glowing recommendations and since Vulcan’s number one son was the main character apparently that classifies this as a Vulcan book even though Spock is not recognizable, so I took the plunge and did I regret it!
First off, this isn’t a Star Trek novel. This is a 1960’s western rom-com with 30 pages in space and names of Trek characters interspersed. Not only was the plot a blatant rip-off, it was cheesy, cookie-cutter and NOT a Star Trek book!!! If I wanted to read a western, I would. If I wanted to read a Hallmark movie novelization, I would. If I wanted to read an archaic,misogynistic plot , I would. I wanted to read Star Trek, who dares to go where no one has gone before. This isn’t that.
All in all, my main issue is this book was deceptive and not what it claimed to be. While there were issues with pacing, plot, characterization, voice, and historical accuracy, what bothered me the most was this wasn’t a Star Trek novel. Others have greatly enjoyed it and perhaps if you read the book accepting it really isn’t Trek you can enjoy it more but for someone like myself, this was truly painful and a complete waste of my time as my beloved characters were decimated and all but unrecognizable, except for the author indicating, “ Kirk said.” And, do not hold your breath for, “Spock said” because he has been consumed by the western dandy, pod-frontiersman with pointed ears known as Ishmael. 🖖 Live long and prosper. 🖖
Generally, I actually enjoy the original TOS novels even though they are often easy fodder for others. I do not go into them with high expectations of lyrical writing and soul searching characterizations and plots that deftly utilize literary mechanisms. But, they are fun, exciting, and entertaining!
One of my favorite things about the Trek universe and TOS is Vulcans and Vulcan culture. ( If you are looking for a great Trek novel, especially with Vulcans and from TOS, an absolute must read is Sarek.) I was searching for another Vulcan-centric novel and this book kept popping up. All I saw were glowing recommendations and since Vulcan’s number one son was the main character apparently that classifies this as a Vulcan book even though Spock is not recognizable, so I took the plunge and did I regret it!
First off, this isn’t a Star Trek novel. This is a 1960’s western rom-com with 30 pages in space and names of Trek characters interspersed. Not only was the plot a blatant rip-off, it was cheesy, cookie-cutter and NOT a Star Trek book!!! If I wanted to read a western, I would. If I wanted to read a Hallmark movie novelization, I would. If I wanted to read an archaic,misogynistic plot , I would. I wanted to read Star Trek, who dares to go where no one has gone before. This isn’t that.
All in all, my main issue is this book was deceptive and not what it claimed to be. While there were issues with pacing, plot, characterization, voice, and historical accuracy, what bothered me the most was this wasn’t a Star Trek novel. Others have greatly enjoyed it and perhaps if you read the book accepting it really isn’t Trek you can enjoy it more but for someone like myself, this was truly painful and a complete waste of my time as my beloved characters were decimated and all but unrecognizable, except for the author indicating, “ Kirk said.” And, do not hold your breath for, “Spock said” because he has been consumed by the western dandy, pod-frontiersman with pointed ears known as Ishmael. 🖖 Live long and prosper. 🖖
September 20, 2022
My favorite Star Trek novel. Read it I'm not sure how many times.
I really like some of Hambly's other stuff, but this one is just special. I hadn't been overly impressed by the "written by professional authors" Star Trek stuff I'd read to that date, and hadn't actually been getting the books, so I didn't read it when it came it out. I finally read this one on the strength of Hambly's non-Trek stuff. I think I'd read some of her Sun Wolf and Star Hawk books and probably the first two Windrose and Those Who Hunt the Night (one of my favorite vampire novels) by then. Anyhow, I'd liked everything I'd read by her, so I decided to give this one a chance. So glad I did!
I still remember the first time I read it, realizing it was a cross over with Here Come the Brides (which was not one of my absolute favorite shows, but I was familiar with it), and wondering if she'd pull it off. Cross overs are tricky -- a lot of them are much more true to one show than to the other -- but I think she succeeded. She also managed to get an enormous amount of heart into these fictional characters that didn't even start out as hers. Just a stellar job all around.
I really like some of Hambly's other stuff, but this one is just special. I hadn't been overly impressed by the "written by professional authors" Star Trek stuff I'd read to that date, and hadn't actually been getting the books, so I didn't read it when it came it out. I finally read this one on the strength of Hambly's non-Trek stuff. I think I'd read some of her Sun Wolf and Star Hawk books and probably the first two Windrose and Those Who Hunt the Night (one of my favorite vampire novels) by then. Anyhow, I'd liked everything I'd read by her, so I decided to give this one a chance. So glad I did!
I still remember the first time I read it, realizing it was a cross over with Here Come the Brides (which was not one of my absolute favorite shows, but I was familiar with it), and wondering if she'd pull it off. Cross overs are tricky -- a lot of them are much more true to one show than to the other -- but I think she succeeded. She also managed to get an enormous amount of heart into these fictional characters that didn't even start out as hers. Just a stellar job all around.
June 5, 2011
One of my favorite Star Trek book.
I am glad I reread it... It's one of those timewarp books where Spock goes back to the wild wild West where he meets his great great great times forever grand father. He has lost his memory and doesn't know why he is on earth but he somehow blends in and becomes one of the community. I love the way how the stranger in the strange land story develops and we get to see Spock without the strict "I am a Vulcan therefore I must be logical" face.
I also reread the "strangers from the sky" in which another of Spock's ancestor is introduced. I have a feeling the author of that book also read this story and was influenced by it!
I am glad I reread it... It's one of those timewarp books where Spock goes back to the wild wild West where he meets his great great great times forever grand father. He has lost his memory and doesn't know why he is on earth but he somehow blends in and becomes one of the community. I love the way how the stranger in the strange land story develops and we get to see Spock without the strict "I am a Vulcan therefore I must be logical" face.
I also reread the "strangers from the sky" in which another of Spock's ancestor is introduced. I have a feeling the author of that book also read this story and was influenced by it!
May 22, 2009
This is the very first Star Trek book I ever read. Someone told me about it after they found out I had been a huge fan of Bobby Sherman & the TV show Here Come the Brides when I was a kid. This was so much fun! An amnesiac Spock in Old West Seattle dealing with the likes of Aaron Stempel (played by the late Mark Lenard, who also played Spock's father, Sarek) and Jason Bolt. Have gone back and reread this book a couple of times in recent years, just for the grins it gives me!
June 24, 2009
I know I'm prejudiced on many levels, but I think this is the best Star Trek novel ever written. My copy is battered--and I'm one of the most anal folks ever about keeping books pristine--because I've read it so many times. After the recent movie, when I felt the need for Trek-fic, this is the book I came to. It's Star Trek meets Here Come the Brides, with amazingly awesome results. There's so much right about this book that I don't know what else to say except go read it!
June 3, 2018
This notable "Star Trek: TOS" and "Here Comes the Brides" crossover turned out to be a well plotted adventure with plenty of humor, romance, and a lot of heart. The fish-out-of-water narrative with the attempts to integrate Mr. Spock with a band of 19th century loggers and the women recruited to join them in Seattle was very entertaining. No previous knowledge of HCtBs required.
November 18, 2015
Way back before all the other ST series had their run & introduced us to continuing episodes & large story arcs there was only Star Trek & it's trademark adventures of the week. Don't get me wrong I love ST lit trilogies, & large story arc installments but I also love the stand alone adventures too, & this novel here is a fine example of the stand alone adventure. It started a little slow for me but after the fist couple chapters it got good, really good. It's a Spock centered story & Hambly's portrayal of the main characters is dead on. I'm not gonna give away much but Spock travels back to 1867 Seattle for reasons not entirely known other than to presumably thwart a Klingon incursion on the timeline. But upon arrival he has no memory of who he is or where he's from. Then the story intersects with another late 60's tv series entitled Here come the Brides. Now this intersection with the other show has always been what has kept me from reading this novel despite all its great reviews because that just sounded pretty corny to me plus I like ST pure & undiluted. But to my surprise it added alot of depth & humor to the story for me. If you're an ST fan & definitely if your a Spock fan you should read this book as it's one of the best original series novels I've read & its conclusion is extremely satisfying. Highly recommend!
April 25, 2010
I'm a fan of Star Trek, not "Here Come the Brides." Given that this is billed as a ST novel, I'd say it's a big old fail. It's like a bit of romantic fan-fiction. Chapter after chapter of San Fransisco in 18dickety-two with the innumerable and indistinguishable "J" brothers is not what I signed up for here. Hambly suckers you in with an opening scene on the Enterprise, then follows it up with a bunch of Oregon Trail shit. This was the first Trek novel I've attempted and as it's roundly considered to be one of the best, I think I better stay away from the others.
June 2, 2012
I hadn't re-read this for a while and was happy to find that I still really liked it. The Star Trek novels are very mixed quality, but Barbara Hambly is a great author and I can hear the actors' voices in the characters (which isn't always the case with these novels).
My favorite line is
I never saw Here Come the Brides, but would be curious to watch that show based on meeting the characters in this book.
My favorite line is
I never saw Here Come the Brides, but would be curious to watch that show based on meeting the characters in this book.
January 15, 2024
Ishmael by Barbara Hambly
Adventurous, challenging, emotional, funny,
informative, inspiring, reflective, and tense.
Medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25 Stars
I really enjoyed this story. In some ways...time travel can be lazy, but I liked the way that they used it...and Spock's amnesia was a good part of why the story worked so well.
I am also glad that I've read a Barbara Hambly book that I enjoyed. Up to this point, she'd been a miss with me.
As you know, Mr. Spock is my favourite character in Star Trek, especially in TOS. His struggles of being an alien (wherever he goes, even when he goes home to Vulcan). His "otherness" and his own struggles of acceptance are why he's so sympathetic (to me, at least). He is so superior to most everyone he meets, but he is also SO different, that he's fun to spend time with
The time period and the locations on earth were used so well. The plight of the Americans at this time in our history was unique and provacative. The needs of the women that travelled across the country, the men and their needs to find wives, and the drive of all of them to make a new life on the Western fringes of this great country.
I also loved how they didn't say that these frontier/pioneering people were stupid and uncapable of understanding. That acknowledgement of their abilities was fun to explore.
I also loved how Kirk, McCoy, Scotty and Uhura (along with the Enterprise crew) found a way.
If you haven't read this book, I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Adventurous, challenging, emotional, funny,
informative, inspiring, reflective, and tense.
Medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25 Stars
I really enjoyed this story. In some ways...time travel can be lazy, but I liked the way that they used it...and Spock's amnesia was a good part of why the story worked so well.
I am also glad that I've read a Barbara Hambly book that I enjoyed. Up to this point, she'd been a miss with me.
As you know, Mr. Spock is my favourite character in Star Trek, especially in TOS. His struggles of being an alien (wherever he goes, even when he goes home to Vulcan). His "otherness" and his own struggles of acceptance are why he's so sympathetic (to me, at least). He is so superior to most everyone he meets, but he is also SO different, that he's fun to spend time with
The time period and the locations on earth were used so well. The plight of the Americans at this time in our history was unique and provacative. The needs of the women that travelled across the country, the men and their needs to find wives, and the drive of all of them to make a new life on the Western fringes of this great country.
I also loved how they didn't say that these frontier/pioneering people were stupid and uncapable of understanding. That acknowledgement of their abilities was fun to explore.
I also loved how Kirk, McCoy, Scotty and Uhura (along with the Enterprise crew) found a way.
If you haven't read this book, I wholeheartedly recommend it.
January 12, 2021
I love this book, and I'm not ashamed to admit it. It's a comfort re-read, sorely needed at the moment.
Yes, as other people will have noted, it's a mash up of an old Western (Here Comes the Brides) with the original Star Trek crew. It shouldn't work, but it does. It does even if you have no idea about Here Comes the Brides. It's a very human Star Trek story.
My original paper copy had some issues, so it was a pleasure to read on Kindle with the all the words, and in the correct order.
Yes, as other people will have noted, it's a mash up of an old Western (Here Comes the Brides) with the original Star Trek crew. It shouldn't work, but it does. It does even if you have no idea about Here Comes the Brides. It's a very human Star Trek story.
My original paper copy had some issues, so it was a pleasure to read on Kindle with the all the words, and in the correct order.
October 22, 2019
Excellent! It's a historical novel! It's Star Trek! It's .... "Here Come the Brides??"
I've read this before - the first time I didn't even know that I was in "Here Come the Brides" fanfic - but it works very well. The historical details, and the character development - are excellent. I have no doubt I'll be reading it again sometime.
I've read this before - the first time I didn't even know that I was in "Here Come the Brides" fanfic - but it works very well. The historical details, and the character development - are excellent. I have no doubt I'll be reading it again sometime.
February 23, 2022
Really, really dislike the jarring technique of switching from chapter to chapter between two unrelated storylines.
November 10, 2021
Set half in space on the Enterprise and half in Seattle in 1867.
October 28, 2023
The Enterprise is visiting Starbase 12 when due to the Klingons Spock is sent back in time to 1867 Seattle. Can be thwart the Klingons mission in this time whatever that is and can he return to his own time.
An entertaining re-read.
An entertaining re-read.
April 16, 2022
What a delightful book! I love its twists and turns, and seeing Spock with his human side foremost. I also adore the Drelb, and i would love to see one in the tv version.
November 9, 2013
This is a really fun book combining two 1960s TV shows - Star Trek and Here Come the Brides. It starts with the Enterprise at a Starbase when Spock becomes suspicious of some Klingon activity. He has snuck aboard their ship to investigate when the ship leaves and then vanishes, right after the Enterprise receives a puzzling transmission from him. The next time we see Spock he is in 1867 Seattle badly injured, with no memory and no idea how he got there. Spock is rescued and nursed back to health by Aaron Stemple, a local mill owner. Aaron quickly realizes that Spock is not of the Earth but it doesn't seem to make any difference to him. Once Spock has recovered, Aaron gives him the name Ishmael, an identity as his nephew, and a job as his accountant. Spock, as Ishmael, begins to get acquainted with the townspeople and build a life. He gets occasional flashes of memory and feels that there is something important that he is supposed to do. I loved seeing Spock's human side come out, as he didn't know to repress it. There is enough of his true self there that his logical mannerisms and speech are evident and create some very humorous moments. One of my favorites is when he and Josh are engaged in a mock battle involving spoons, catapults, tea cups and a lump of sugar. Spock's mental comment to himself is: “and besides, he had no intention of allowing a human to win at this game…”
The setting is Seattle during the time of Here Come the Brides and the characters are all recognizable from the show. The Bolt brothers, some of the women such as Candy, Lottie and Biddy, and Aaron himself. I really enjoyed seeing Spock's unintended influence on them as he simply accepts things that are foreign ideas to them. I loved his complete acceptance of the idea of a woman doctor when it was something nearly unheard of to them, yet his attitude influenced their changing perceptions. His biggest influence ends up being on Aaron himself, who finds himself changing thanks to Spock. There is also an interesting connection between Spock and one of the residents of Seattle.
There is some time spent with the crew of the Enterprise as they work feverishly to figure out what the Klingons are up to and where Spock is. Kirk's worry about his friend and fears that he is dead are a prime motivator for him. His connections enable him to find people/beings who are able to assist him in his search. He is assisted by Bones, Uhura and Sulu as they skate along the edges of the rules. As is usual, they prevail just in the nick of time.
An interesting bit of trivia: In the TV show Here Come the Brides, Aaron Stemple is played by Mark Lenard, the same actor who portrays Spock's father in the TV show and Star Trek movies.
The setting is Seattle during the time of Here Come the Brides and the characters are all recognizable from the show. The Bolt brothers, some of the women such as Candy, Lottie and Biddy, and Aaron himself. I really enjoyed seeing Spock's unintended influence on them as he simply accepts things that are foreign ideas to them. I loved his complete acceptance of the idea of a woman doctor when it was something nearly unheard of to them, yet his attitude influenced their changing perceptions. His biggest influence ends up being on Aaron himself, who finds himself changing thanks to Spock. There is also an interesting connection between Spock and one of the residents of Seattle.
There is some time spent with the crew of the Enterprise as they work feverishly to figure out what the Klingons are up to and where Spock is. Kirk's worry about his friend and fears that he is dead are a prime motivator for him. His connections enable him to find people/beings who are able to assist him in his search. He is assisted by Bones, Uhura and Sulu as they skate along the edges of the rules. As is usual, they prevail just in the nick of time.
An interesting bit of trivia: In the TV show Here Come the Brides, Aaron Stemple is played by Mark Lenard, the same actor who portrays Spock's father in the TV show and Star Trek movies.
March 28, 2016
Packing up and sorting out trunks of books I came across my collection of Star Trek - the original Star Trek - novels. It's nice to read 'old friends' and some of the fiction written in the Star trek series was outstanding in the best traditions of SF. Authors like Diane Duane, AC Crispin, and Vonda McIntyre lent their talents to creating some really good reads.
Ishmael is a favourite. It's a nice conceit to think that Star Fleet and the confederation are the result of damaged time line and it's all the Klingons' fault!
We did not have the American television series which also covered the delightful story of young women going to Seattle to become brides in the 19thC. Landing Spock in the middle of all this, and back in time, was a great idea and made for a really good story. We get the character growth of Spock becoming more tolerant of his human weaknesses. We see how his colleagues work together to rescue him, part of the loyalty and friendship themes of Star Trek. We get some thought provoking ideas about time travel and its uses and abuses. Good SF makes a reader think. This book does.
Barbara Hambly write well. She has a way with words and a neat turn of phrases in dialogue. She also knows the series characters and writes about them with affection. We don't wonder if Spock would do or say what she writes for him, he is the Spock we know and love. Her other characters are as 3D and she creates a believable Seattle in the 19thC.
For Star Trek fans it is a great read. For SF fans give it a go, there's lots to think about. For general readers try it and see what you've been missing.
Ishmael is a favourite. It's a nice conceit to think that Star Fleet and the confederation are the result of damaged time line and it's all the Klingons' fault!
We did not have the American television series which also covered the delightful story of young women going to Seattle to become brides in the 19thC. Landing Spock in the middle of all this, and back in time, was a great idea and made for a really good story. We get the character growth of Spock becoming more tolerant of his human weaknesses. We see how his colleagues work together to rescue him, part of the loyalty and friendship themes of Star Trek. We get some thought provoking ideas about time travel and its uses and abuses. Good SF makes a reader think. This book does.
Barbara Hambly write well. She has a way with words and a neat turn of phrases in dialogue. She also knows the series characters and writes about them with affection. We don't wonder if Spock would do or say what she writes for him, he is the Spock we know and love. Her other characters are as 3D and she creates a believable Seattle in the 19thC.
For Star Trek fans it is a great read. For SF fans give it a go, there's lots to think about. For general readers try it and see what you've been missing.
May 19, 2010
[These notes were made in 1985:]. This one had its roots in fannery, it is fairly clear - Spock fannery. But it's not bad; the plot is clear and, if you can stretch your conception of Spock's character so far, fairly plausible. Spock is captured by the Klingons while on a spy mission; induces catatonia and amnesia in himself to avoid spilling secrets, and wakes up on Earth in the late nineteenth century, near Seattle; with, apparently, his human component well to the fore and ready to be developed. (Meanwhile Kirk & the gang are going frantic looking for him, and the nature of the spy mission - something to do with time-manipulation - is gradually revealed). One gets the impression the only really important part of it is that the life of one of Spock's new 'family' - Semple - must be preserved at all costs. Down on earth, it's "Spock meets 7 Brides for 7 Brothers," except that the naive misogyny of that film is replaced by a strong but not strident feminist voice, which enlists us strongly on the side of the ugly duckling among the imported brides. As for what happens to Spock - we almost catch ourselves believing that the human side can take over so completely, but the minute Kirk & McCoy reappear on the scene it becomes frankly implausible. Meanwhile the author has taken considerable pains (and probably considerable pleasure) in evoking American frontier life, and the whole is not bad - not bad at all.
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