Trial by Balefire — James Stewart

The TRV-Balefire is an ancient ship, and it is approaching the end of its life when it is suddenly called to Gliese 674 to investigate a mysterious alien attack. After it is nearly destroyed, the crew slowly rebuild her, and one crewmember must rebuild her shattered self after almost dying in the battle. Returning to Gliese, they seek to learn why the aliens have attacked this world, and a disparate crew who didn't want to be here in the first place must learn to work together to accomplish an impossible goal. The Draaikolk War, Book I: Trial by Balefire is a military science fiction story in the vein of David Gerrold, and is the beginning of a trilogy which sees the Terran Republic face the truth about itself. Look out soon for The Draaikolk War, Book II: A Spark, Neglected.