The prequel novel, "Star Trek: Discovery- Desperate Hours", by author David Mack, is now available, tracing the origins of 'Lieutenant Michael Burnham' (Sonequa Martin-Green), raised and educated by 'Vulcans', before being promoted to first officer of the 'Starship Shenzhou':

"...aboard the 'Starship Shenzhou', 'Lieutenant Michael Burnham', a human woman raised and educated among 'Vulcans', is promoted to acting first officer.

"But if she wants to keep the job, she must prove to 'Captain Philippa Georgiou' that she deserves to have it.

"She gets her chance when the Shenzhou must protect a 'Federation' colony that is under attack by an ancient alien vessel ...

'...that has surfaced from the deepest fathoms of the planet’s dark, uncharted sea.

"As the menace from this mysterious vessel grows stronger, 'Starfleet' declares the colony expendable in the name of halting the threat.

"To save thousands of innocent lives, Burnham must infiltrate the alien ship.