Star Wars: Doctor Aphra Vol. 7: A Rogue's End (comic) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Star Wars: Doctor Aphra Vol. 7: A Rogue's End
Writer: Simon Spurrier
Artists: Caspar Wijngaard, Lee Loughridge, Elsa Charretier, Edgar Delgado, & Jim Campbell
Release Date: February 11, 2020

Vol.1: Aphra
Screaming Citadel
Vol.2: The Enormous Profit
Vol.3: Remastered
Vol.4: The Catastrophe Con
Vol.5: Worst Among Equals
Vol.6: Unspeakable Rebel Superweapon

Synopsis: After all she's been through, professional disaster zone DOCTOR APHRA is right back where she started: working for DARTH VADER. What villainous use has the dark lord found for her to make him spare the life of his most annoying foe...? And how long does she have to try to slither out of harm's way before he decides to finish what he started three years ago...?

COLLECTING: STAR WARS: DOCTOR APHRA 37-40, STAR WARS: DOCTOR APHRA ANNUAL 3

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Review: After 40 issues, this story has come to an end. BUT, Doctor Aphra's story will continue starting with a new issue #1 set after The Empire Strikes Back just like the other ongoing series. I am so glad this comic is one of the continuing ongoing series at Marvel. An original character for the comics that is also queer and Asian! On the first page of this volume, right across from the writing credits, there's two women kissing. There's a lot more Star Wars (and Disney too) could do for the LGBTQ+ community in terms of representation, but reading this comic gives me hope.

This volume opens up with Aphra in the Empire's service yet again. She's a part of an archaeological team using their expertise to help find the Rebel base. The murder droids are back, of course. The romance between Aphra and Tolvan's relationship is so interesting. And complicated. I really like how it keeps coming back. Although I am hoping for some more permanent changes in the new series. 

The third annual is also included in this volume. It features my favorite monster hunter duo of Nokk the Trandoshan and her husband Winloss. Black Krrsantan appearing is also always a plus.  Mos Eisley is also a big part of the annual.

And finally, the epilogue is from Empire Ascendant which seems to be the lead-in to the post-The Empire Strikes Back content.

I give this volume a 4/5. I really enjoy this series, but this volume kind of felt thrown together instead of a true finale. 


--PAUL

Star Wars: Target Vader (comic) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Star Wars: Target Vader
Writer: Robbie Thompson
Artists: Marc Laming, Cris Bolson, Stefano Landini, Marco Failla, Roberto di Salvo, Georges Duarte, & Neeraj Menon
Release Date: February 11, 2020


Synopsis: THE HUNTER! DARTH VADER is on the hunt for a mysterious criminal syndicate operating outside of THE EMPIRE’s rule. But little does he know he’s being hunted by a group of the galaxy’s deadliest bounty hunters, hired by the syndicate to take out Vader once and for all. Led by fallen Imperial Officer BEILERT VALANCE, this ragtag group of assassins will stop at nothing to kill the biggest bounty of their lives.

COLLECTING: STAR WARS: TARGET VADER #1-6

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Review: I immediately loved the artwork in the first few pages of this book. The colors are vibrant. The details given to the different alien species are excellent. There are aliens from all three trilogies throughout this book. That's the Star Wars I love. There are even references to the Bounty Hunter's Code that reminds me of The Mandalorian. 

Beilert Valance is going to be a big presence in the comics it seems with the upcoming Bounty Hunters ongoing comic. I'm not familiar with the character, but I like that they are bringing back select characters from the old Legends and introducing them into the new canon.

The focus is on bounty hunters, so of course a team forms. I like that the team includes what looks like a female Tusken Raider, Urrr'k. Dengar is also part of the team, keeping that connection to bounty hunters from the films. 

It's always fun to see bounty hunters do their thing because their morals are always very particular. And there will always be plenty of twists. This felt like an introduction to Valance the most. We learn some of his backstory and get to see where his allegiances fall. 

I give this book a 4/5. It's fun and very Star Wars. I think this volume has convinced me to pick up the Bounty Hunter series when it comes out.


--PAUL

Star Wars: Thrawn (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Star Wars: Thrawn
Based on the novel by: Timothy Zahn
Writer: Jody Houser
Artists: Luke Ross & Nolan Woodard
Release Date: September 11, 2018

Synopsis: Set between Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith and Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope, Star Wars: Thrawn is a comic book miniseries adaptation of the 2017 novel Thrawn by Timothy Zahn. The story explores the rise of Grand Admiral Thrawn through the ranks of the Galactic Empire, setting up his appearance in Star Wars Rebels, the character's canon debut. The comic series will be penned by Jody Houser, writer of the comic adaptation of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, and artwork will be completed by Luke Ross, who has illustrated various Star Wars titles.

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Review: My prior knowledge of Thrawn comes from Wookieepedia browsing and the Rebels tv series. I haven't yet read Zahn's new canon or original legends books, yet. This book follows Thrawn's story from his first encounter with the Empire up until his time in Rebels. This is a story of a war strategist climbing the ladder. There's also the story of the politics of the Empire. Although Thrawn is at the center of all the action, Arihnda Pryce is heavily featured. I loved getting to see her backstory before her time as governor of Lothal in Rebels. 

The time jumps are frequent in this book, showcasing relevant stories about Thrawn and those closest to him throughout his time with the Empire. The references to Thrawn's encounter with Anakin Skywalker really made me want to read that story. I liked getting to see the inner workings of the Empire.

Knowing the ending of Rebels, I'm really excited to see where Thrawn's story goes in the future. There are little hints about the Chiss Ascendancy in this book. And I want to know more!!!

I give this book a 4/5. It's a heavier comic than most of the other Star Wars trade paperbacks since it's covering a bigger story. Because of this it drags a little, but there's a lot of great story and connections in this book.


--PAUL

Star Wars: Darth Vader, Dark Lord of the Sith, Vol. 4: Fortress Vader (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Star Wars: Darth Vader, Dark Lord of the Sith, Vol. 4: Fortress Vader
Writers: Charles Soule
Artists: Giuseppe Camuncoli, Daniele Orlandini, David Curiel, Terry Pallot, Dono Sanchez-Almara & Erick Arciniega
Release Date: February 12, 2019

Synopsis: Continuing the imperious rise of the Dark Lord! A Jedi makes a desperate deal. The Inquisitors' mission evolves. And Darth Vader discovers a theft... And when the thief faces the consequences of their crime, Emperor Palpatine rewards Darth Vader with three gifts: A thing, a choice...and a voice. Seeking the path to his destiny, Vader returns to the place of his birth. There, echoes from the past reach out to him - both his own past, and the dark history of the Sith! Be here for a story that could only be called "Fortress Vader"! COLLECTING: DARTH VADER 19-25

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Review: I have enjoyed this ongoing Darth Vader: Dark Lord of the Sith series so much more than the original Marvel Darth Vader series. I think the reason is that this is such a more interesting time in Darth Vader's life. Anakin is still there behind the mask, figuring out his path. This is the finale of the series and everything comes to an excellent end. There are so many references that blend all the different time frames together: the prequels, Rebels, Clone Wars, Rogue One, and the original trilogy. And the connections aren't just passing allusion, but they make up this story. We get to see a former Jedi Council member at the start of this volume. Then a classic prequel ship. The Inquisitors are very present. There's a chase scene on Coruscant very reminiscent of Episode II. And then of course there's Mustafar!!!

The final chapter in this volume is done so well. I want more comic stories that connect the trilogies so well. There's even a reference to one of my favorite Episode I movie posters. 

This was a great volume. A great end to a great series. I obviously give this book a 5/5. I highly recommend this ongoing Marvel series if you're looking for a Star wars series to read.    


--PAUL

Star Wars: Darth Vader - Dark Lord of the Sith Vol. 2: Legacy's End (comic) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Star Wars: Darth Vader - Dark Lord of the Sith Vol. 2: Legacy's End
Writer: Charles Soule
Artists: Daniele Orlandini, Giuseppe Camuncoli, & David Curiel
Recent Release Date: April 24, 2018

Synopsis: Vader's story continues! Jocasta Nu, the Jedi Temple librarian, puts forth a desperate eff ort to gather and preserve whatever he can of the Jedi legacy after the purge. Vader and the Grand Inquisitor cannot let Jocasta succeed and are sent after her, as alpatine views her as a particular threat. Her knowledge makes her almost a one-woman Jedi Order that must be stopped.

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Review: This is the second volume in the new ongoing Darth Vader - Dark Lord of the Sith series. It takes place shortly after Episode III, with Vader still discovering himself and Jedi still on the loose.

The main story in this volume involves tracking down Jocasta Nu, the Jedi Temple archivist. I always liked the background Jedi from the prequels so it was col to see her come to center stage. I'm excited to see where her story leads. There's little hints about her new archive being used in the future. I could read (or watch) a whole series about the force sensitive children of the galaxy once the Empire takes control. 

The Grand Inquisitor as well as other inquisitors are shown in this volume. The Ninth Sister is introduced. I like the dynamic between the inquisitors and Vader. Vader is still defining his role within the Empire. The fear within the ranks we see in the original trilogy isn't present yet.

I give this second volume a 5/5. I am more entertained by this ongoing series than the Star Wars ongoing series. I want to see more Jedi who escaped Order 66!


--PAUL

Star Wars: Darth Vader-Dark Lord of the Sith, Vol.1: Imperial Machine (comic) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Star Wars: Darth Vader-Dark Lord of the Sith, Vol.1: Imperial Machine
Writers: Charles Soule & Chris Eliopoulos
Artists: Giuseppe Camuncoli & Cam Smith
Recent Release Date: December 5, 2017

Synopsis: From acclaimed writer Charles Soule comes a brand-new, exhilarating series exploring Darth Vader's early history. Picking up directly where Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith ends, follow Vader as he receives his legendary red lightsaber and witness Vader's rise to power as a Dark Lord of the Sith! 

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Review: This comic picks up right where Episode III left off. Like directly. There's the whole "Noooooooooo" thing and everything. I liked seeing Vader when he is new to being a Sith. It really is Anakin under there still. Throughout the comic, that Anakin begins to fall away. 

I liked the mix of prequel and original trilogy aesthetic. Seeing Vader alongside clone troopers was very cool. The Grand Inquisitor even makes a cameo!

I read the Dark Horse comics that took place right after Order 66 so certain aspects of this comic remind me of those. In this comic, there are jedi who took the Barash Vow prior to the Purge, so they are still out and about in the galaxy. Vader takes this opportunity to take a lightsaber and make it bleed.

I really enjoyed this first volume in a new, ongoing comic series. I am absolutely excited for volume two. I give this volume a 5/5.    


--PAUL

Star Wars: Darth Vader Vol. 3 (comic): The Shu-Torun War

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Title: Star Wars: Darth Vader Vol. 3: The Shu-Torun War
Author: Kieron Gillen
Illustrator: Salvador Larroca
Recent Release Date: August 9, 2016

Synopsis: The Dark Lord of the Sith's unstoppable march continues! The natives of Shu-Torun are revolting, and there's no way the Empire will stand for that. When Darth Vader is tasked with leading a military assault against the planet, could it be that his rise to glory has begun? But who will follow Vader into war? Would you? Then again, it's better to fight alongside Vader than against him. That's a lesson that the ore barons are about to learn.

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Review: I miss Doctor Aphra. The droids are fun. This volume finds Darth Vader dealing with a war and royal families on a supply planet. I am so over the other potential apprentices of the Emperor. They're annoying. 

Queen Trios is a really interesting character. I like the culture of glamour and dukes on this planet. An intensely courtly culture. 

I give this volume a 3/5. It continues the Darth Vader story, but nothing special happens in this volume. Hopefully the next volume picks up the pace. 


--PAUL

Star Wars: Vader Down (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Star Wars: Vader Down
Authors: Jason Aaron and Kieron Gillen
Illustrators: Mike Deodato and Salvador Larroca 

Recent Release Date: April 19, 2016

Synopsis: Two of the biggest titles in comics collide in the first crossover of the new Marvel age of STAR WARS! When Darth Vader accidentally finds himself facing off against the rebel fleet on his own, he is sent crashing onto a nearby planet. Will the rebels seize this opportunity to put an end to one of their greatest enemies — or will they be made to feel the full power of the dark side? The Sith Lord may be down, but he isn't out! All your favorites are here, old and new, good and evil: Luke! Vader! Leia! Aphra! Han! Threepio, Artoo, Triple-Zero and BT-1! And in a hair-raising battle of the Wookiees, Chewbacca versus Black Krrsantan! ROOOARRGH UR ROO! 

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Review: This is the first big event in the Star Wars comics since Marvel returned to the reins. This crossover volume brings the ongoing Star Wars and Darth Vader titles together. New characters introduced in each get to finally interact with the main cast. My favorite part of this comic was the assassin droids, Triple-Zero and Bee-Tee. They make this book. Especially with Artoo and Threepio featured in the comic as well. The parallels are wonderful, if not a little on the nose.

Other characters like Aphra and Black Krrsantan are featured as well. I like both of them and think they're great additions to this new canon. Commander Karbin on the other hand is one of my least favorite characters. His design is horrible. It's super weird. He is pretty much General Grievous with a Mon Caalamari head. He doesn't look badass, just strange.  

I enjoyed how this crossover event was done and hope for more in the future. I'm enjoying most of the new characters. And it's always great to have a Chewie pulling arms off reference. I give this graphic novel a 4/5. I'm excited to see where both of these ongoing series take us. 


--PAUL

Star Wars: Darth Vader, Vol. 2: Shadows and Secrets (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Star Wars: Darth Vader, Vol. 2: Shadows and Secrets
Author: Kieron Gillen
Illustrators: Salvador Larroca, Adi Granov
Recent Release Date: January 5, 2016

Darth Vader, Vol. 1 REVIEW
Synopsis: Bounty Hunters on the attack--against the Empire! Vader has a new mission to do for the Empire. Unfortunately, it's completely at odds with his own mission. What's a Dark Lord to do? Plus: Who is Tagge's mysterious new agent?

COLLECTING: Darth Vader 7-12

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Review: Since this is the second volume of this ongoing comic series, I knew more of what to expect. But just as the first volume did, this volume started out in a very interesting place and then just meandered along with the story. I have definitely found that I like event miniseries more than just this continuing story. Hopefully that means I'll love Vader Down, which is a crossover event with the other ongoing series, Star Wars.

This volume begins with Darth Vader at the remains of the Lars homestead, where Luke grew up. I really enjoy how Marvel is taking characters and places from the movies that didn't interact and placing them together. 

Aphra is yet again a big part of this story. For part of this volume, she seemed more of a lead character than Vader. Her droids are coming into their own, paving their own path as not just evil clones of C-3PO and R2-D2. 

A new Imperial investigator is assigned to Vader, Thanoth. I enjoyed his Sherlockian deduction skills. A far better character than the twins and the robo-Mon Calamari, in my opinion.

I enjoyed this volume and will continue reading it. I want more big things to happen, but I can tell all these missions are leading up to some huge things. I give this volume a 4/5.


--PAUL

Star Wars: Darth Vader Vol. 1: Vader (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Star Wars: Darth Vader Vol. 1: Vader
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Salvador Larroca
Recent Release Date: October 20, 2015

Synopsis: The original Dark Lord of the Sith stars in his first ongoing series! Ever since Darth Vader's first on-screen appearance, he has become one of pop-culture's most popular villains. Now, follow Vader straight from the ending of A NEW HOPE (and the pages of the new STAR WARS comic book) into his own solo adventures — showing the Empire's war with the Rebel Alliance from the other side! But when a Dark Lord needs help, who can he turn to? As Vader pursues a very personal vengeance against the Rebels and investigates the Emperor's secret machinations, he clashes with weapons scavenger Aphra and deadly Battle Droids, and returns to Geonosis to build an army. But some very powerful people don't want him to learn the truths he seeks! Guest-starring Jabba the Hutt, Boba Fett and more!

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Review: This trade paperback opens wonderfully. The first issue of this ongoing series is fantastic. Darth Vader, shortly after the loss of the Death Star, goes to Jabba the Hutt looking for aid in getting back into the Emperor's favor. 

By the end of this first volume though, I didn't feel the same energy and momentum. Some very cool things happen, like a return to Geonosis, but I was definitely more impressed with how this ongoing series started than where it left off.

I will continue with this series, but I am hoping for more interesting stories coming up. I liked how new characters were introduced in this series pretty early on. I'm excited to read the big Vader Down crossover event.

I give this first volume a 4/5. A very strong start, but hopefully it didn't peak too early. 


--PAUL

Star Wars, Vol. 1: Skywalker Strikes (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

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Title: Star Wars, Vol. 1: Skywalker Strikes
Author: Ryan Graudin
Recent Release Date: October 6, 2015

Synopsis: The greatest space adventure of all returns to Marvel! Luke Skywalker and the ragtag rebels opposing the Galactic Empire are fresh off their biggest victory so far — the destruction of the massive Death Star. But the Empire’s not toppled yet! Join Luke, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca, C-3PO, R2-D2 and the rest of the Rebel Alliance as they fight for freedom against Darth Vader and his evil master, the Emperor! But when a Rebel assault goes wrong, Han and Leia must think fast to make their escape — while Luke comes face-to-face with Darth Vader! In the explosive aftermath, a humbled Luke returns to Tatooine to learn more about his mentor, Obi-Wan Kenobi. Meanwhile, Leia and Han undertake a vital — and dangerous — secret mission. But can they succeed without Luke? Plus: the menace of Boba Fett! 

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Review: This trade paperback collects the first six issues of the ongoing Marvel Star Wars series. Since this is an ongoing series, there isn't any finality to the end of the story. It is cool to see Imperial equipment and characters form later in the trilogy come into play early as this book takes place shortly after A New Hope. 

The artwork is fantastic and the comic overall does an excellent job of getting that Star Wars feel, but it definitely is just the start of the comic. I'm excited to see where it goes. I want independent arcs that introduce new and interesting characters, places, and creatures. 

I give this trade paperback a 4/5. I will continue reading this series as it releases in trade paperback. I do enjoy the miniseries Marvel has done more. I like having a complete story tied up. 


--PAUL

Star Wars: Lords of the Sith - Paul's Review

*I received this book as an eARC from Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey Spectra via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

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Title: Lords of the Sith
Author: Paul S. Kemp

Release Date: April 28, 2015

Synopsis: On Ryloth, a planet crucial to the growing Empire as a source of slave labor and the narcotic known as “spice,” an aggressive resistance movement has arisen, led by Cham Syndulla, an idealistic freedom fighter, and Isval, a vengeful former slave. But Emperor Palpatine means to control the embattled world and its precious resources—by political power or firepower—and he will be neither intimidated nor denied. Accompanied by his merciless disciple, Darth Vader, he sets out on a rare personal mission to ensure his will is done.

For Syndulla and Isval, it’s the opportunity to strike at the very heart of the ruthless dictatorship sweeping the galaxy. And for the Emperor and Darth Vader, Ryloth becomes more than just a matter of putting down an insurrection: When an ambush sends them crashing to the planet’s surface, where inhospitable terrain and an army of resistance fighters await them, they will find their relationship tested as never before. With only their lightsabers, the dark side of the Force, and each other to depend on, the two Sith must decide if the brutal bond they share will make them victorious allies or lethal adversaries. 

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Review:I have really enjoyed these new canon Star Wars books. All of them have made effort to connect the two trilogies and the tv series, Lords of the Sith especially. There was a reference to a former padawan that made me squeal. 

When it comes to Darth Vader, he needs to be an ominous force. There has to be that mystery remaining, even though we know so much about his past. This book did an excellent job at not getting too much inside of Vader's head. There were many parts of the book when I was hearing Anakin's voice in my head instead of Vader's deep voice. Although the focus of this book may be on Vader and the Emperor, they don't get as much "screen time" as other characters. 

Cham Syndulla is the real core of this story. Not only that, but he is the connection to the Star Wars tv shows. He was featured on The Clone Wars and has a direct connection to a character on Rebels. 

This book can be seen as a sequel to Revenge of the Sith and The Clone Wars, but also a prequel to Rebels and A New Hope. All of the connections are there. 

Pretty much every character in this book has a grayness to them. The "freedom fighters" are very close to terrorists, but they're attacking the "bad guys" so it's okay, right? The uber bad guys are on the run, but they have all the power and will to destroy anyone in their way. The government and military leaders either do a horrible job at their job or are attempting to play the system to get more power. 

Moff Delian Mors is introduced in this book and she has received a lot of hype, being the first LGBT character in the new Star Wars canon. I am very excited to see the positive outpour over an LGBT character and hope to see more in everything Star Wars, but Mors's sexual orientation is just a small aspect of her character. Overall, she is a lazy Imperial officer. She had some redeeming qualities, but she is only a side character. I'd love to see her in more things Star Wars, but even more I'd love to see more characters to represent other aspects of the LGBT community. 

Like all of the new canon Star Wars books, reading little details gets me even more excited knowing they are legit. When one of the royal guards took off his helmet, my mouth dropped. Vader's meditation chamber has been featured a lot in these books recently. It makes me wonder if there is something more to it than we know. 

I really enjoyed this book. The whole first half is pretty much just set-up, but it's enjoyable getting to know these new characters and Ryloth as a planet. I actually found the set-up more interesting than the running, chasing, and hunting of the second half. I give this book a 4/5. I believe that makes this my second favorite of the new Star Wars canon books so far, just behind Heir to the Jedi. Although once Dark Disciple and Aftermath come out, I'm almost positive that will change. 


--PAUL

Star Wars: Lords of the Sith - Paul's Pre Reading

*I received this book as an eARC from Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey Spectra via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

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Title: Lords of the Sith
Author: Paul S. Kemp

Upcoming Release Date: April 28, 2015

Synopsis: On Ryloth, a planet crucial to the growing Empire as a source of slave labor and the narcotic known as “spice,” an aggressive resistance movement has arisen, led by Cham Syndulla, an idealistic freedom fighter, and Isval, a vengeful former slave. But Emperor Palpatine means to control the embattled world and its precious resources—by political power or firepower—and he will be neither intimidated nor denied. Accompanied by his merciless disciple, Darth Vader, he sets out on a rare personal mission to ensure his will is done.

For Syndulla and Isval, it’s the opportunity to strike at the very heart of the ruthless dictatorship sweeping the galaxy. And for the Emperor and Darth Vader, Ryloth becomes more than just a matter of putting down an insurrection: When an ambush sends them crashing to the planet’s surface, where inhospitable terrain and an army of resistance fighters await them, they will find their relationship tested as never before. With only their lightsabers, the dark side of the Force, and each other to depend on, the two Sith must decide if the brutal bond they share will make them victorious allies or lethal adversaries. 

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Why?: I've enjoyed every book in the new canon so far. I like how each little detail adds to the new canon universe, showing what of the old canon has been kept and what has been left aside. It is also nice how it is manageable. I have watched or read everything within the new canon. 

This book focuses on two of the greatest villains of Star Wars: Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine. I'm interested to see their viewpoint and I hope they both still seem mysterious. Cham Syndulla is also featured. He was in The Clone Wars as well as being Hera, from Rebels, 's father.   

This is also the first appearance of an LGBT character in the new Star Wars canon. I'm interested to see how this new moff character plays out. 

Expectations:  I'm excited to see how this book blends the feel of the original trilogy, The Clone Wars, and Rebels. I'm expected a glimpse into out favorite Sith lords, while also bridging the gap between Episode III and IV. It'll be interested to see how much Darth Vader knows about his own past, and those around him as well. 

Judging a book by its cover: This cover is pretty hardcore. How much more badass can you get than Darth Vader's red lightsaber and force lightening? 


--PAUL

Star Wars: Tarkin by James Luceno - Paul's Review

*I received this book as an eARC from Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey Spectrain in exchange for an honest review*

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Title: Star Wars: Tarkin
Author: James Luceno
Recent Release Date: November 4, 2014

My Pre-Reading

Synopsis: A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. . . .

Bestselling Star Wars veteran James Luceno gives Grand Moff Tarkin the Star Wars: Darth Plagueis treatment, bringing a legendary character from A New Hope to full, fascinating life.

He’s the scion of an honorable and revered family. A dedicated soldier and distinguished legislator. Loyal proponent of the Republic and trusted ally of the Jedi Order. Groomed by the ruthless politician and Sith Lord who would be Emperor, Governor Wilhuff Tarkin rises through the Imperial ranks, enforcing his authority ever more mercilessly . . . and zealously pursuing his destiny as the architect of absolute dominion.

Rule through the fear of force rather than force itself, he advises his Emperor. Under Tarkin’s guidance, an ultimate weapon of unparalleled destruction moves ever closer to becoming a terrifying reality. When the so-called Death Star is completed, Tarkin is confident that the galaxy’s lingering pockets of Separatist rebellion will be brought to heel—by intimidation . . . or annihilation.

Until then, however, insurgency remains a genuine threat. Escalating guerrilla attacks by resistance forces and newfound evidence of a growing Separatist conspiracy are an immediate danger the Empire must meet with swift and brutal action. And to bring down a band of elusive freedom fighters, the Emperor turns to his most formidable agents: Darth Vader, the fearsome new Sith enforcer as remorseless as he is mysterious; and Tarkin—whose tactical cunning and cold-blooded efficiency will pave the way for the Empire’s supremacy . . . and its enemies’ extinction. 

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Review: This is the second book in the new Star Wars canon. I really hung on to every detail in this book. Any Expanded Universe things mentioned made me perk up, seeing them acknowledged in the new canon. 

This takes place 5 years after Revenge of the Sith. The interactions between Tarkin and Vader are very interesting. They are both becoming the characters they will be in A New Hope. 

This book follows Tarkin as he addresses a kidnapping and potential threat to the Empire. During this mission, Tarkin reminisces on how he has become the man he is. I liked seeing his origins paralleled with Palpatine's. They are both from Outer Rim worlds. 

I liked the character development and backstory more than the actual story that was happening. The perspective isn't exclusively Tarkin's, switching to both Vader and Palpatine as well as the rebels. I call them rebels, but they are not the Rebels we know from the original series. 

I give this novel a 3.5/5. I enjoyed delving into Tarkin's backstory and seeing what makes him tick, but the actual story of the novel didn't interest me. If you are a superfan of Star Wars like me then this is a book you probably want to pick up. I don't think it's a necessary read for casual fans. 


--PAUL

Star Wars: Tarkin by James Luceno - Paul's Pre-Reading

*I received this book as an eARC from Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey Spectrain in exchange for an honest review*

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Title: Star Wars: Tarkin
Author: James Luceno
Recent Release Date: November 4, 2014

Synopsis: A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. . . .

Bestselling Star Wars veteran James Luceno gives Grand Moff Tarkin the Star Wars: Darth Plagueis treatment, bringing a legendary character from A New Hope to full, fascinating life.

He’s the scion of an honorable and revered family. A dedicated soldier and distinguished legislator. Loyal proponent of the Republic and trusted ally of the Jedi Order. Groomed by the ruthless politician and Sith Lord who would be Emperor, Governor Wilhuff Tarkin rises through the Imperial ranks, enforcing his authority ever more mercilessly . . . and zealously pursuing his destiny as the architect of absolute dominion.

Rule through the fear of force rather than force itself, he advises his Emperor. Under Tarkin’s guidance, an ultimate weapon of unparalleled destruction moves ever closer to becoming a terrifying reality. When the so-called Death Star is completed, Tarkin is confident that the galaxy’s lingering pockets of Separatist rebellion will be brought to heel—by intimidation . . . or annihilation.

Until then, however, insurgency remains a genuine threat. Escalating guerrilla attacks by resistance forces and newfound evidence of a growing Separatist conspiracy are an immediate danger the Empire must meet with swift and brutal action. And to bring down a band of elusive freedom fighters, the Emperor turns to his most formidable agents: Darth Vader, the fearsome new Sith enforcer as remorseless as he is mysterious; and Tarkin—whose tactical cunning and cold-blooded efficiency will pave the way for the Empire’s supremacy . . . and its enemies’ extinction. 

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Why?: This is the second book in the new canon Star Wars. I've read Star Wars books and comics in the past, but now that the Lucasfilm story grown has declared these books canon I'm even more excited to read them. 

Expectations: I'm expecting this book to show Tarkin becoming the malevolent grand moff he is in the original film. He had a cameo in Revenge of the Sith and he was also in The Clone Wars animated series, so he must already be in the military pretty high up when this starts. It will be interesting to see how this book bridges the gap between the prequels and the original trilogy. 

Judging a book by its cover: The cover is reminiscent of the original trilogy in its style and tone. It is dark, which makes sense considering the two characters on the front are villains. Tarkin is at the forefront. It is an okay cover. 


--PAUL