The action scenes were great, but I could have done without the preaching about the deep meaning of their missions and respect for life and duty and freedom. Overall, it was intriguing enough for me to want to read at least one more book in the series. ( )

Plot: Fairly typical team plot that in the second half turns into a mission plot. Good momentum and a good build-up of tension. At times it feels a little formulaic and it shows that Stackpole isn't new to this kind of book.

Characters: The central character has barely enough flaws to not qualify as a Marty Stu, and is not particularly interesting in his personal quirks and conflicts. The side characters are a collection of steretypes whose interactions are interesting to watch.

Style: Terrible writing when it comes to space fights. Reasonably authentic dialogue. The language is nothing extraordinary and occasionally too flat. What is missing is atmosphere.

Plus: The beginning of a good series away from practically all known characters in the Star Wars universe, so it makes for a good starting point.

Minus: The book doesn't capture the reader.

Summary: Worth reading as a space opera, as is the rest of the series. ( )