Pages Read: 336/336. In this first book of another Star Wars Trilogy after Episode VI, Luke, Han, Leia, Chewbaca, and Lando all separate on their own journeys for a short period of time, confronting obstacles after obstacles for the New Republic once again. Luke goes in search of his mother, along with a companion. Chewbaca leaves for Kashyyyk to meet his family. Lando leaves with R2D2 and C2PO to board a mysterious vessel, known to be first created by the Qella species. Han and Leia face the greatest trouble of all. They had gone through a negotiation with Nil Spaar, the current leader of the Duskhan League, one which was under Imperial control uptil the Battle of Endor. Nil Spaar's true intentions were to demolish the New Republic, and take over the rule of the Galaxy. Nil Spaar leaves unexpectedly, and starts invading the planets near the Choornacht Cluster, where the Duskhan League reside. All but one person is killed, and it just so happens that that one person was taken in by the New Republic. I think I relate a bit to Lando Calrissian in a way, because Lando is all about adventure, and even in a tight spot, he always slips through (and literally that's what LITERALLY happened in one part of the book. He slipped through a passageway). Though he makes considerable mistakes like I do, he manages to fix them back. I do not think there is much in this book which I do not like... Though there could be more adventure at Lando's peak than where Leia sits and talks half the book... I would recommend this book to people who are COMPLETELY immersed into sci-fi.

I may be in the minority, but this was my favourite Star Wars trilogy by far. It's certainly the most atmospheric. I love the political intrigue, the mystery of the "ghost ship", and Luke's journey across space as an ordinary traveller, complete with red tape. The action sequence in the first chapter (not the prologue) is easily the best-written in a Star Wars novel. Most importantly, Kube-Mcdowell actually adds to the mythology, revealing military and political power structures, new planets and races, and new supporting characters that feel just as real as any of the mainstays. Plus, you get the feeling that there are more aliens than humans for once. Terrific stuff. ( )