Title: Dark Force Rising (Book 2 of 3 in the Thrawn Trilogy)
Author: Timothy Zahn
Publication Date: June 1992 (and this paperback is old enough that it doesn’t have Legends slapped on it).
My Rating: A-
Although it took me awhile to get through this book thanks to life getting in the way, I enjoyed it. It really fleshed out the universe of Star Wars. Mara’s background is included, as well as information about the Clone Wars, the Jedi and many other things. Granted, alot has been retconned by the prequel movies, but it is still interesting.
In this book, the three main characters take different paths and all three are interesting. Luke takes after a lead on an Old Jedi Master, and Mara finds herself in need of his help which doesn’t actually appeal to her but she does it anyway. So Luke, Mara and Karrde’s storyline goes together in this novel. Han and Lando meanwhile have a different path to take, which leads them to an Senator from Corellia and a bit of backstory for Han.
I think Leia’s storyline is the most interesting. In this triology, the empire makes use of a species known as the Noghri, who are loyal to Vader and through him Thrawn due to being saved. Leia tries to figure out if she can find a way to win them to the New Republic’s side, and learns alot about herself, Vader and Clone wars. One of the reasons I find this storyline interesting is because it develops a world and species in a very interesting way. They are serving the empire because they see the Empire as their hero. And it ties in with some of the universe’s history.
I really enjoyed this one, and I’m looking forward to the final book in the series. I wish there was more I could say without causing spoilers. If you are a Star Wars fan, I definately recommend reading this series.
Sokorra Lewis 