This book was published in 1987 (MCA publishing rights), written by Glen A. Larson and Robert Thurston. It is part of two other adventures with new stories never seen on TV. The book starts with strange witnesses to the new adventure of the ultimate famous trio: Apollo, Croft and Sheba. I think the authors were being too hard on the Captain, but who can tell?? We all know it's quite interesting to follow interaction of their clashing personalities, which has always been one of the best things to make TV series /movies work, right? All three are gathered for a recognition mission, since provisions were, once again, very low on the fleet.

They are captured by new bizarre aliens who dedicate their lives to make war. The scenario is a war between two equally rotten sides, using trapped beings (our beloved Colonials) who land by accident on Yevra. Both they and the natives -- in a once peaceful and beautiful planet, presently scared by war -- become gunny pigs of the attempt to break their will to make them return to basic instincts, to forceful fight to either side (which was the one that laid their hands on the captives first.).

On one of these experiences, Apollo, as a real gentleman like most Galacticans' men, will save a lady in distress, haunted by an evil spell. He will feel attractive to her and will be corresponded. (Finally, Apollo gets a break!) On the Galactica, Starbuck is coming back from another mission, which had been productive. The planet had food, water and minerals to make fuel with, but he doesn't find a very cheerful Adama. And a "patent" war starts with a strict Commander and a stubborn lieutenant.

This little fight will keep Starbuck's friends tied between loyalty and respect to a higher rank. A K.O. by a woman will help. What is happening here?! The depth into different cultures, followed by rituals and legends from the Twelve's Worlds (Twelve Colonies) will complete missing information. Those memories it's what will keep Apollo going when facing the sleepiness of his and the others minds, due to the monotony of fighting that meaningless war, telling stories using Starbuck as a hero role model. Apollo will end up saving everybody, despite a hand from Adama and Starbuck.

In truth, the latter had really a lot to do with helping to end the war. The outcast woman, with her courage, will be accepted inside the new group of free people to build the society she once knew as her world -- and at the same time to find a cure to her damnation. In my humble opinion I think the authors took a little too down on Starbuck's personality, presenting him with a doubtful behave during certain chapters. I don't believe he would behave against a fellow war companion, like he does against Bojay.

Although, on the other hand, I totally comprehend he wouldn't forgive cadet Hera for knocking him down, literally! A male's pride is hard to overcome. It's good reading and well-structured. We enjoyed reading it. It's nice to have a different enemy for a change, too.

My rating is three out of five stars.