SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Thrawn - Timothy Zahn

Release Date: 06/04/17
Publisher: Century

SYNOPSIS:

In this definitive novel, readers will follow Thrawn’s rise to power—uncovering the events that created one of the most iconic villains in Star Wars history.

One of the most cunning and ruthless warriors in the history of the Galactic Empire, Grand Admiral Thrawn is also one of the most captivating characters in the Star Wars universe, from his introduction in bestselling author Timothy Zahn’s classic Heir to the Empire, through his continuing adventures in Dark Force Rising, The Last Command, and beyond. But Thrawn’s origins and the story of his rise in the Imperial ranks have remained mysterious. Now, in Star Wars: Thrawn, Timothy Zahn chronicles the fateful events that launched the blue-skinned, red-eyed master of military strategy and lethal warfare into the highest realms of power—and infamy.

After Thrawn is rescued from exile by Imperial soldiers, his deadly ingenuity and keen tactical abilities swiftly capture the attention of Emperor Palpatine. And just as quickly, Thrawn proves to be as indispensable to the Empire as he is ambitious; as devoted as its most loyal servant, Anakin Skywalker; and a brilliant warrior never to be underestimated. On missions to rout smugglers, snare spies, and defeat pirates, he triumphs time and again—even as his renegade methods infuriate superiors while inspiring ever greater admiration from the Empire. As one promotion follows another in his rapid ascension to greater power, he schools his trusted aide, ensign Eli Vanto, in the arts of combat, leadership, and the secrets of claiming victory. But even though Thrawn dominates the battlefield, he has much to learn in the arena of politics where ruthless administrator Arihnda Pryce holds the power to be a potent ally or a brutal enemy.

All these lessons will be put to the ultimate test when Thrawn rises to admiral—and must pit all the knowledge, instincts, and battle forces at his command against an insurgent uprising that threatens not only innocent lives but also the Empire’s grip on the galaxy—and his own carefully laid plans for future ascendency.


REVIEW:

With many having celebrated May the Fourth as Star Wars day, us Sith supporters like to go with May the Sixth as our own celebration. So its with pure joy that I sat back to enjoy the tale of Thrawn through his rise to power as a military strategist alongside his having to learn how to deal with political double deadling.

Originally introduced way back in 1991 by the author in Heir to the Empire, its been a long time coming for readers who have dreamed of reading about this legendary characters exploits. Its well written, with cracking twists and whilst certain events are known alongside thier outcomes, the author manages to keep it fresh as well as addictive.

All round a cracking title and for me a book that was a pure joy to read. Cracking fun and definitely a title that fans around the world will love.