Star Trek Prey: Hell’s Heart (Book 1) by John Jackson Miller

Title: Star Trek Prey:  Hell’s Heart (Book 1)
Author: John Jackson Miller

Read by: Robert Petkoff

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio

Length: Approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes
Source: Simon & Schuster Audio Digital Review Copy – Thank-you!

                               

A sci-fi adventure that includes a tale of vengeance one-hundred years in the making, Star Trek Prey:  Hell’s Heart is an epic original tale that includes many favorite Star Trek characters.

Klingon Commander Kruge’s death after his battle with Captain James T. Kirk on the Genesis planet started a power struggle amongst his many heirs in the Klingon Empire.  The heirs of his family fought against his loyal commanders who were overcome in battle.  Korgh, his young almost adopted heir and military colleague, saw his chance for power ripped away when he is unable to gain access to the Phantom Wing, a squadron of very advanced Birds of Prey with the power to fire while clocked that he had worked on himself.

One hundred years later, the USS Enterprise with Captain Jean-Luc Picard is escorting the heirs of Kruge to a celebration of their final battle.  Along the way, First Officer Worf discovers that the “battle” may not have been all that it seems to be 100-years ago.  The celebration finds itself a battle field with Worf kidnapped as a result.  Who is behind the kidnapping and slaughter?  Will Worf be able to return to the Enterprise?

Robert Petkoff is a top notch narrator for this audiobook.  His voices were perfect for the characters – he really sounded like Worf!  He also did a good British accent for Captain Picard.  This was a great story to listen to via audiobook.  As a lifelong fan of Star Trek, I thought this story was a riveting addition to the Star Trek cannon.  I also realized my mind added in music and sound effects – is that weird? 

The story was very engaging as Miller captured the characters perfectly while also having a lot of great action and elements of surprise.  This makes for a perfect audiobook to keep one entertained on your daily commute.  I was crushed when it ended as I wanted to know more!  Luckily, I am listening to Book #2 now.

Overall Star Trek Prey:  Hell’s Heart (Book 1) is an enthralling adventure story that perfectly captures the Star Trek world and characters.  Petkoff is a fantastic narrator that is a great character voice actor.  I highly recommend this audiobook!