In Karmela Johnson The Garrison: Evidence, Lieutenant Javel Marquand has a secret that could kill him and his partner.

Javel Marquand is an officer in the Alliance Enforcement working undercover at the Duran Prison on Zurin Five as a prison guard. During a routine search for additional proof of Duran’s illegal reefer operation, he witnesses Duran’s civilian scientists escaping the planet. Desperate to prevent them from escaping with the evidence, he negotiates with the chief scientist. Days later, trapped underground in the mining shafts, Javel realizes that the scientist was correct about Zurin Five. The planet is self-destructing.

Lieutenant Xerna Ariante is frantically trying to maneuver through the shifting mine tunnels before Javel finds out her shameful secret. As she struggles to remain calm and locate the tunnel to the surface, her body betrays her. Suddenly all she can focus on is mating with Javel even with the earthquakes and collapsing mine shafts happening around them. Annoyed and mortified at her lack of physical control, Xerna lashes out at Javel in hopes of keeping him at a safe distance and allowing them to concentrate on locating a way off the Zurin Five.

Javel knows that Xerna desires him as much as he does her, but she goes from hot to cold. Frustrated by her rejection and haughtiness, he leaves in search of a piece of equipment to assist them with a jammed access panel. Instead he encounters an old buddy and prisoner, who knows of another way out. Xerna does not trust Lucas and wonders about his association with Javel. However, she has no alternative but to follow.

The Garrison: Evidence is a passionate, evocative tale of self-discovery, treachery, trust, and disgust. Javel and Xerna’s survival depends on Xerna’s acceptance of herself. Karmela Johnson deftly depicts Xerna’s struggle in the midst of their desperate attempt to flee Zurin Five. I felt Xerna’s anguish and self-loathing and wanted to comfort her throughout the story.

The Garrison: Evidence is a gripping, fast-paced, suspenseful saga of corruption, love, deceit, and passion. Javel has spent the last ten years striving to show that he is good enough for Xerna. Nevertheless, his decisions of the last few days will decide their future. Karmela Johnson cleverly weaves Javel’s internal struggle throughout as Xerna and he seek a way to the surface of Zurin Five.


Reviewed by: Dena