(September 1976) is the second original novel based on television series Star Trek intended for adult readers, written by Theodore R. Cogswell and Charles A. Spano, Jr.

However, due to an increase in radiation, the Enterprise must leave planetary orbit sooner than expected, but the crew cannot depart without the crystals held by Spock.

The crew also discover that an Ensign George had intentionally damaged Spock's implant while under the influence of Gara.

Frederik Pohl, editor at Bantam Books, was tasked with producing new Star Trek originals.

"[3] Cogswell contacted young writer Spano, Jr., and ask if he would be interested in co-authoring a Star Trek novel on Pohl's behalf.

Spano said in Voyages of Imagination that although it had roots in the rise of Islamism, the premise of the novel was a familiar one, "the idea that a fanatical desert leader could arise to threaten a civilisation was a staple throughout history.

The novel was released in September 1976, and later reprinted by Bantam Spectra in October 1993 with cover art by Kazuhiko Sano.

Noted issues included racism (Uhura is called "the black," and Sulu "the oriental"), altering the appearance of characters (Scotty described as having red hair), and ignoring technology present in the television version of the Enterprise (no sonic showers).

's publication, and eventual sales success, validated Pohl's theory "that there was a hunger for original Star Trek novels.