Dark Victory (Star Trek)
In Dark Victory, the mirror universe is a dim shadow of the Federation, ruled by a cruel tyrant, Emperor Tiberius. Much to the dismay of James T. Kirk, Tiberius is also Kirk's double and is determined to destroy him, whom he considers to be a weak and embarrassing twin. The action can be a bit confusing for listeners unfamiliar with Spectre, the first title in this series, but it doesn't take long to get one's bearings. Unfortunately, those looking for a satisfying conclusion must wait for the third installment. Shatner is in top form and, along with great sound effects, does an admirable job of resurrecting his signature character. Trekkies of all stripes will clamor for this one, but be prepared to purchase the entire series, as individual titles do not stand alone. Recommended for all sf collections. A few galaxies over, the Star Wars contingent is having its own set of problems. Although Emperor Palpatine is dead, a powerful Ruling Council continues with the empire's plans. Dark Lord Carnor Jax is determined to claim the throne, but he must first eliminate Kir Kanos, the only member of the emperor's elite bodyguard to survive after Jax's treachery toward his emperor and fellow guardsmen. Seeking refuge from Jax, Kanos finds himself allied with rebel forces. But Kanos owes allegiance to no one, and rebel leader Mirith Sinn cannot trust the enigmatic warrior whose loyalty lies with a dead emperor. This dramatized production uses multiple voices and searing sound effects to keep imagination flowing, but the ending is rather abrupt, eliciting vague disappointment rather than anticipation for the next title in the Crimson Empire series. Recommended only for libraries with an extensive Star Wars collection.ASusan Dunman, Murray State Univ., KYCopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.