Release Date: 16/11/17
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
From the Sunday Times bestselling author, Simon Kernick, comes the thrilling second instalment in The Bone Field series. Featuring DI Ray Mason and PI Tina Boyd.
A house deep in the countryside where the remains of seven unidentified women have just been discovered.
A cop ready to risk everything in the hunt for their killers.
A man who has seen the murders and is now on the run in fear of his life.
So begins the race to track down this witness before the killers do.
For Ray Mason and PI Tina Boyd, the road ahead is a dangerous one, with bodies and betrayal at every turn…
REVIEW:
The Second book in Simon's Bone Field series and one that continues to build upon not only the success of the first but continues to develop the characters so that they become more real to the reader.
As with the original its well written, the overall arc a delight to spend time with and when you throw into the mix a great understanding of pace alongside dialogue that fits the characters as envisioned by me as a reader down to a tee. All round makes this tale a joy to devour. A great christmas gift.
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.
Release Date: 17/11/16
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
Lauded Star Wars author James Luceno returns to pen an intense tale of ambition and betrayal that sets the stage for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
War is tearing the galaxy apart. For years the Republic and the Separatists have battled across the stars, each building more and more deadly technology in an attempt to win the war. As a member of Chancellor Palpatine’s top secret Death Star project, Orson Krennic is determined to develop a superweapon before their enemies can. And an old friend of Krennic’s, the brilliant scientist Galen Erso, could be the key.
Galen’s energy-focused research has captured the attention of both Krennic and his foes, making the scientist a crucial pawn in the galactic conflict. But after Krennic rescues Galen, his wife, Lyra, and their young daughter, Jyn, from Separatist kidnappers, the Erso family is deeply in Krennic’s debt. Krennic then offers Galen an extraordinary opportunity: to continue his scientific studies with every resource put utterly at his disposal. While Galen and Lyra believe that his energy research will be used purely in altruistic ways, Krennic has other plans that will finally make the Death Star a reality. Trapped in their benefactor’s tightening grasp, the Ersos must untangle Krennic’s web of deception to save themselves and the galaxy itself.
REVIEW:
When a new film comes out in the star wars universe, readers always want to get ahead of the curve and for me, you need a top notch author to help maintain the magic, especially when the book that's being released is a prequel to the film that allows you a better glimpse of not only the events but the characters whom will be the pivitol part of the rebellion gaining of the death star plans.
What James a well told story will help fully immerse you. I'm glad that I read this prior to watching the movie.
Release Date: 12/06/16
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
Twenty years undercover - one man's true story of life as an undercover cop. A must-read for fans of Donnie Brasco.
For over 20 years Joe Carter has worked for the police as an undercover cop. He travelled the globe on different passports. He fraternised with thieves, international drugs and arms dealers. He worked alongside the most dangerous criminals. Always fearing that this life would come crashing down around him at any point.
His story is a gripping account of the secret, solitary work of an undercover officer and the many ‘sticky’ situations he found himself in, as well as the moving confession of the difficulty in reconciling his two identities with his family life. It’s a story of his beginnings from a being a young east end apprentice to the mean streets he walks today – it reveals the many highs and the painful lows of going undercover.
This book explores the resilience needed to lead a double life, the thrilling challenge of working with the biggest criminals in Britain, and maintaining a sense of justice through the many adventures he encounters.
REVIEW:
Books like this are not only hard to read but also to process as to be honest you're reading a real person's life story. Not a fictional write up but the down and dirty gritty highs and low's that a flesh and blood person has had to deal with.
It's hardcore, dark and t times depressing as the reader gets to spend time with a man you feel is doing his best for communities and yet, the criminals aren't as clear cut as you'd like to think. Its harsh, not dressed up with any unnecessary dressing and to the point, which is pretty much what you'd expect from a police officer.
All round a title that whilst hard to read was a book that I was pleased I spent the time with, to see the real face of undercover work without the make up of Hollywood or TV to hide behind.
Release Date: 11/08/16
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
Arrowood is the most ornate and beautiful of the grand historical houses that line the Mississippi river in southern Iowa where the days are long and humid and communities are small and closed.
It has its own secrets and ghostly presence: it's where two small twin girls were abducted ten years previously - never to be seen again.
Now, Arden has inherited Arrowood, and she returns to her childhood home determined to establish what really happened to her sisters that traumatic summer. But the house and the surrounding town hold their secrets close - and the truth, when Arden finds it, is more devastating than she ever could have imagined.
Family lies, buried secrets and a terrifying truth lie at the heart of this brilliant and haunting crime novel.
REVIEW:
I love a mystery that really draws you in and when you blend it with a psychological and supernatural aspect it can be something that not only keeps you on the edge of your seat but also gives you chills as events unfurl. What happens within the book is a tale that has a solid story, some decent twists as well as dialogue that keeps it moving on at its own pace. For me there was just one problem.
I hated the principle character. I just couldn’t get on with her as I couldn’t get a hook into her, so much so that I really didn’t have enough interest in the story to care about how events turned out and how it would affect her. Back this up with an ending that didn’t feel like it gave me any real closure and all round I was disappointed with hits outing.
Release Date: 12/07/16
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
The Emperor is dead, and the remnants of his former Empire are in retreat. As the New Republic fights to restore a lasting peace to the galaxy, some dare to imagine new beginnings and new destinies. For Han Solo, that means settling his last outstanding debt, by helping Chewbacca liberate the Wookiee’s homeworld of Kashyyyk.
Meanwhile, Norra Wexley and her band of Imperial hunters pursue Grand Admiral Rae Sloane and the Empire’s remaining leadership across the galaxy. Even as more and more officers are brought to justice, Sloane continues to elude the New Republic, and Norra fears Sloane may be searching for a means to save the crumbling Empire from oblivion. But the hunt for Sloane is cut short when Norra receives an urgent request from Princess Leia Organa. The attempt to liberate Kashyyyk has carried Han Solo, Chewbacca, and a band of smugglers into an ambush―resulting in Chewie’s capture and Han’s disappearance.
Breaking away from their official mission and racing toward Kashyyyk, Norra and her crew prepare for any challenge that stands between them and their missing comrades. But they can’t anticipate the true depth of the danger that awaits them―or the ruthlessness of the enemy drawing them into his crosshairs.
REVIEW:
Sadly I have to say that this outing for the Star War’s Universe is a title that I personally felt didn’t need to be published. It was lacking material, felt full of fluffy stuffing with no substance and all round left me thinking that this was a title that would have been better being condensed into more of a short story rather than a full title.
Yes if you’re a War’s fan you might like this but for the options that were available during the time period, it’s a book that really could have had way more going for it than was delved into. All round if you have to read this book, borrow it from the library and save your money as for me, its got to be a bargain bucket offering to even make it worth considering for any reader. A huge disappointment and sadly a book that I will not associate with Chuck’s usually stellar work.
Release Date: 14/07/16
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
A body is discovered in an empty Atlanta warehouse. It's the body of an ex-cop, and from the moment Special Agent Will Trent walks in he knows this could be the most devastating case of his career. Bloody footprints leading away from the scene reveal that another victim - a woman - has left the scene and vanished into thin air. And, worst of all, the warehouse belongs to the city's biggest, most politically-connected, most high-profile athlete - a local hero protected by the world's most expensive lawyers. A local hero Will has spent the last six months investigating on a brutal rape charge.
But for Will - and also for Dr Sara Linton, the GBI's newest medical examiner - the case is about to get even worse. Because an unexpected discovery at the scene reveals a personal link to Will's troubled past. The consequences will wreak havoc on his life and the lives of those he loves, those he works with, and those he pursues.
But Sara's scene-of-the-crime diagnosis is that they only have a few hours to find the missing woman before she bleeds out . . .
REVIEW:
Ah, Karin Slaughter, an author who brings a whole world of cracking characters to the fore to not only populate her world but give the reader people to love, people to hate but always with a cracking story. Here in this title we get to see Will’s Ex Angie Polaski as the star of this title and get to understand her in a way that none of the other people in her life will do.
It’s definitely a book that I loved spending time with and whether you love or hate Angie, she’s fascinating any which way you look at her. As with Karin’s other books the prose is sharp, the dialogue adding a layer of believability and when backed with top notch pace all round generates a real treat all round. Cracking.
Release Date: 30/06/16
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
Lent, 1469
The recent wars between the House of York and the House of Lancaster seem over. The Yorkist King Edward sits on his throne in Westminster, while the Lancastrian claimants are in exile or under lock and key in the Tower.
But within the family of York there is discord. The Earl of Warwick conspires against his King, and while to one another's faces they are all smiles, their household men speak in lies and whispers.
No man comes to court unarmed.
Thomas and Katherine have returned to Marton Hall, the only home they know.
But what lies buried in the past cannot remain so for long, and soon they are forced to take up arms once more in one of the most savage wars in history.
The Wars of the Roses . . .
REVIEW:
I’ve spent a lot of time in the Cousin’s War over the last few years so I thought that I’d pretty much seen nearly anything that this time period could throw at me so it was with great happiness and surprise when this series from Toby Clements arrived taking the reader into the minds of the common folk rather than concentrating on purely those vying for the throne.
It’s well written, the prose sharp and there’s more than enough plot to keep the tale rolling without leaving the reader to worry that this is just filler due to the books placement in the series. Add to this great characterisation, magical dialogue and a cast that will keep you glued to see what happens next all round makes this a series that is a real treat to enjoy. Cracking
Release Date: 16/06/16
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
On the side of a mountain in Sweden, six bodies have been found. Skeletons, more precisely. These bodies were buried a long time ago.
And for Sebastian Bergman that just makes the investigation into who they are, who killed them, and why, even more complex. Because Bergman has, of course, found himself on the investigating team. At first it was a chance to escape his ex-girlfriend and spend some time with his daughter, Vanja. An opportunity to try and build a relationship with her before it's too late.
But soon he finds that he's more involved than he would ever want to be. And his personal life is horribly, disastrously, tangled up in it all . . .
REVIEW:
If there’s one thing that I happen to love Crime wise, its spending time with the Scandinavians. They know how to scare the crap out of me with murder, they know how to set the scene and for me, the descriptiveness of the landscape sells it delightfully to me every time as I tend to feel that its quite a harsh setting for an even hardier people.
What this book presents is a tale that is thought provoking, has some solid twists and when added to characters that I wanted to spend time around generated a tale that was a solid offering. That said, the ending didn’t feel quite right for me as a reader, whether this is due to a translation problem or it was rushed to hit a deadline I’m not sure but I will read future outings by this duo.
Release Date: 28/01/16
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
The gripping new race-against-time thriller by the best-selling author of Relentless, The Last 10 Seconds and The Final Minute.
‘I had a simple choice. Stay here, and almost certainly be discovered.
Or get up and run.’
THE WITNESS
When Jane Kinnear sees her lover being murdered, she suddenly finds herself in danger. Taken to an anonymous police safe-house, it soon becomes clear that her lover was an MI5 informant with important information about an imminent terrorist attack.
THE DETECTIVE
DI Ray Mason of Counter Terrorism Command is a man with a controversial past, but his effectiveness at getting results means that he’s now been given the task of preventing the attack from taking place. But can he be trusted, and does he know more about the attack than he’s letting on?
THE KILLER
In the safe-house, Jane is trying to piece together a description of her lover’s killer. But what she doesn’t know is that the killer has already found out who she is, and where she is hiding.
And now he’s coming for her …
REVIEW:
I love a good scare with a crime novel and Simon is an author that’s done that very well for me in the past. Here in his latest title he’s done it again with characters that stand out that generate a sense of unease within the reader each time they head towards a dangerous situation. Its definitely something that will pull at the heart strings, have you gasping for breath between some sequences and generates something that is, at times, just too hard to put down until you see that they’re alright.
Add to this a plotline that hooks you in, dialogue that trips off the page and all round I was a very happy reader. A real treat for a new year.
Release Date: 19/01/16
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
The dramatic novel from the writer and creator of Brookside, Hollyoaks and Grange Hill.
Three years ago, Janey Nolan was murdered in the centre of town.
Today, no one knows who did it.
Sick of waiting for the powers that be to rid the streets and school gates of dealers, druggies and parasites, Janey’s brothers want to avenge her death. While Sean decides to explore the routes and corridors of political power, Joey chooses more direct action in and among the alleys and pathways of the neighbourhood itself.
But can the brothers find Janey’s killer without bringing more danger to their town?
THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING.
THIS IS HIGHBRIDGE.
REVIEW:
To be honest I know Phil’s name from a lot of TV programmes and whilst I enjoyed them I wasn’t sure how well he’d manage the change from screen writing to book format as it requires a lot of different skills. I shouldn’t have as for me, he brought the skills over wonderfully with solidly created characters, dialogue that really allowed the reader to associate with them as well as an overall plot line that drew me in wonderfully well.
Add to this an overall arc that delivered on the titles promise as well as allowing you to thoroughly get into the players minds and for me this was a departure and a treat. I’ll be recommending Phil to other readers wanting something a little different.
Release Date: 14/01/16 (PB)
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
When grieving mother and New York journalist Charlie Cates begins to experience vivid dreams about children after her only son passes away, she’s sure that she’s lost her mind. Yet she soon realizes these are not the hallucinations of a bereaved mother. They are messages and warnings that will help Charlie and the children she sees―if she can make sense of them.
The disturbing images lead her from her home in suburban New York City to small-town Louisiana, where she takes a commission to write a true-crime book based on the case of Gabriel Deveau, the young heir to a wealthy and infamous Southern family, whose kidnapping thirty years ago has never been solved. There she meets the Deveau family, none of whom are telling the full truth about the night Gabriel disappeared. And as she uncovers long-buried secrets of love, money, betrayal, and murder, the facts begin to implicate those she most wants to trust―and her visions reveal an evil closer than she could have imagined.
REVIEW:
I love getting to spend time with new authors, they have a lot to prove to readers to get their name out there and also you know that their first book always has a ton of love as well as being polished to the best of their ability. Its well written, the characters have a believability about them and when added to a delightful southern gothic vibe, generates a tale that I had quite a good time reading.
Yes there are problems with some pacing and a few predictable twists but for a first outing (along with some surprise ones), its one that I was more than happy that I spent the time with. Cracking.
Release Date: 20/10/15
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
The bravest soldiers. The toughest warriors. The ultimate survivors.
Among the stars and across the vast expanses of space, the Galactic Civil War rages. On the battlefields of multiple worlds in the Mid Rim, legions of ruthless stormtroopers―bent on crushing resistance to the Empire wherever it arises―are waging close and brutal combat against an armada of freedom fighters. In the streets and alleys of ravaged cities, the front-line forces of the Rebel Alliance are taking the fight to the enemy, pushing deeper into Imperial territory and grappling with the savage flesh-and-blood realities of war on the ground.
Leading the charge are the soldiers―men and women, human and nonhuman―of the Sixty-First Mobile Infantry, better known as Twilight Company. Hard-bitten, war-weary, and ferociously loyal to one another, the members of this renegade outfit doggedly survive where others perish, and defiance is their most powerful weapon against the deadliest odds. When orders come down for the rebels to fall back in the face of superior opposition numbers and firepower, Twilight reluctantly complies. Then an unlikely ally radically changes the strategic equation―and gives the Alliance’s hardest-fighting warriors a crucial chance to turn retreat into resurgence.
Orders or not, alone and outgunned but unbowed, Twilight Company locks, loads, and prepares to make its boldest maneuver―trading down-and-dirty battle in the trenches for a game-changing strike at the ultimate target: the very heart of the Empire’s military machine.
REVIEW:
With Star Wars: Battlefront to hit the shelves shortly, fans of the franchise will be clamouring for something to help them really get into the game as well as giving them some additional mythos to the already well established series. Set after the Battle of Yavin (Star Wars: A New Hope, the destruction of the original death star), readers will follow the Twilight Company as events unfurl allowing the reader a chance to see the war from another point of view.
Whilst at some points it does seem that the characters know a bit more than they should, it didn’t disrupt my read and I loved the way that it took the reader through a well trodden landscape in order to get the most bang for their buck. Its well written, the characters solid enough and when added to already established history can concentrate more on getting the story across rather than having to map out a lot of the surrounding events. All round a great read and for me, if you’re wanting to get into the Star War’s books this isn’t a bad one to start with. (Review written prior to game release.)
Release Date: 10/09/15
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens
The second Death Star has been destroyed, the Emperor killed, and Darth Vader struck down. Devastating blows against the Empire, and major victories for the Rebel Alliance. But the battle for freedom is far from over.
As the Empire reels from its critical defeats at the Battle of Endor, the Rebel Alliance―now a fledgling New Republic―presses its advantage by hunting down the enemy’s scattered forces before they can regroup and retaliate. But above the remote planet Akiva, an ominous show of the enemy’s strength is unfolding. Out on a lone reconnaissance mission, pilot Wedge Antilles watches Imperial Star Destroyers gather like birds of prey circling for a kill, but he’s taken captive before he can report back to the New Republic leaders.
Meanwhile, on the planet’s surface, former rebel fighter Norra Wexley has returned to her native world―war weary, ready to reunite with her estranged son, and eager to build a new life in some distant place. But when Norra intercepts Wedge Antilles’s urgent distress call, she realizes her time as a freedom fighter is not yet over. What she doesn’t know is just how close the enemy is―or how decisive and dangerous her new mission will be.
Determined to preserve the Empire’s power, the surviving Imperial elite are converging on Akiva for a top-secret emergency summit―to consolidate their forces and rally for a counterstrike. But they haven’t reckoned on Norra and her newfound allies―her technical-genius son, a Zabrak bounty hunter, and a reprobate Imperial defector―who are prepared to do whatever they must to end the Empire’s oppressive reign once and for all.
REVIEW:
Chuck for me is an author that I either really get behind with a novel or one that leaves me feeling a little out in the cold and whilst I do tend to have a lot of fun reading the books that expand the universe, this one left me feeling a little cheated as it felt a little off kilter as (with it being the opener in a series) had to deal with a lot of issues of bringing the cast together alongside the greater universal effect of the fall of the Empire.
It’s a hard book to read and whilst I did make it through I did find that the overall effect of the novel was fairly muted not giving me a breakneck pace that I wanted. Yes there were moments of pulse thumping action but for me, these were few and far between leaving me trudging along a lot of the time. Here’s hoping that it picks up in the second book now that a lot of the background and hard work has been established in this one. However if there’s no real character development, I won’t be returning for the third.
Release Date: 30/07/15
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
The follow-up to last year’s acclaimed The Ways of the Dead, this gritty mystery showcases Tucker’s talent for spot-on dialogue, authentic characters, and complex narrative.
When Billy Ellison, the son of Washington, D.C.’s most influential African-American family, is found dead in the Potomac near a violent drug haven, veteran metro reporter Sully Carter knows it’s time to start asking some serious questions―no matter what the consequences.
With the police unable to find a lead and pressure mounting for Sully to abandon the investigation, he has a hunch that there is more to the case than a drug deal gone bad or a tale of family misfortune. Digging deeper, Sully finds that the real story stretches far beyond Billy and into D.C.’s most prominent social circles.
An alcoholic still haunted from his years as a war correspondent in Bosnia, Sully now must strike a dangerous balance between D.C.’s two extremes―the city’s violent, desperate back streets and its highest corridors of power―while threatened by those who will stop at nothing to keep him from discovering the shocking truth.
REVIEW:
There are times in real life when you want to turn you hand to detective in order to utilise and use up some of that nervous pent up energy that always seems to take over prior to bed. What this title from Neely does, is provide you with a police procedural title that not only allows you to delve into the murder but look at each of the clues and try and get some clear idea’s as to whom you think is responsible.
It’s a solid enough title and whilst at times there are a few pieces that are explained in greater than needed detail. All round a good read and one that I had quite a bit of fun with especially as the key character of Sully Carter feels quite real to me. Magic.
Release Date: 09/07/15
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
When the Jedi decide to target Count Dooku-Darth Tryanus- himself, they turn to his ex-apprentice, Asajj Ventress, for help in getting close to the slippery Sith Lord. But when unexpected sparks fly between Ventress and Quinlan Vos, the unorthodox Jedi sent to work with her, the mission becomes a web of betrayal, alliances, secrets, and dark plotting that might just be the undoing of both Jedi and Sith - and everything in between!
REVIEW:
OK, the latest Star Wars book returns to the Clone Wars timezone and whilst a lot of the history is well known it does feel that its glossed over within in favour of working more on the love angle between the two principle characters. Don’t get me wrong it was a different type of book to the many other Star Wars titles out there but when the action sequences are short and some of the plotline has holes that readers not so up on their history will be left baffled by, all round leaves a book that for me was more middle of the road rather than in the upper echelon.
Release Date: 16/07/15
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
This is the new novel from the bestselling author of ready player one. It's just another day of high school for Zack Lightman. He's day dreaming through another boring math class, with just one more month to go until graduation and freedom-if he can make it that long without getting suspended again. Then he glances out his classroom window and spots the flying saucer. At first, Zack thinks he's going crazy. A minute later, he's sure of it. Because the UFO he's staring at is straight out of the video game he plays every night, a hugely popular online flight simulator called Armada-in which gamers just happen to be protecting the earth from alien invaders. But what Zack's seeing is all too real. And his skills-as well as those of millions of gamers across the world-are going to be needed to save the earth from what's about to befall it. Yet even as he and his new comrades scramble to prepare for the alien onslaught, Zack can't help thinking of all the science-fiction books, TV shows, and movies he grew up reading and watching, and wonder: Doesn't something about this scenario seem a little too...familiar? Armada is at once a rollicking, surprising thriller, a classic coming of age adventure, and an alien-invasion tale like nothing you've ever read before-one whose every page is infused with author Ernest Cline's trademark pop-culture savvy.
REVIEW:
Ah having loved Ernest’s original release, I really couldn’t wait to see what he’d return to the fold with and as with the original you can tell his passion of video games is not only heavily influential within but also brings a nostalgic look to the reader alongside using tropes from throughout the genre that really helps build a history for the world.
Its definitely quirky, has a ton of geek jokes within (including many film references) as well as presenting a principle character that you just really can’t let go of let alone want to spend time away from (so much so that you’ll find putting the title down nigh impossible.) All round a cracking title and for me, a definite Sci-Fi favourite of the year alongside being one that will make many a summer reading list. Cracking.
Release Date: 23/04/15
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
As the Emperor continues to close his iron fist over the galaxy, occasionally situations arise that he does not want to trust even to his notorious apprentice and right-hand man, Darth Vader. When the Emperor ventures out personally with Vader to handle a new political treaty, their journey lands them in the middle of insurgent action. Alone on an inhospitable planet, they must rely on each other, the Force, and their awesome martial skills to survive!
REVIEW:
Whilst a lot of people love the good guys, I have to say that I’m a big fan of the villains purely because they’re not constrained and can do exactly what they want. Here in the latest Star War’s title we get a book of Vader and one that really works well for me as a reader as I felt that Paul not only got the principle character down to a tee but brought him across in such a way that it made the book not only gripping but one where we see his full transformation to the darkside completed through the careful manipulation of the Emperor.
It’s deliciously dark and when added to the overall arc is a title that works wonderfully well for me. Back this up with good dialogue as well as a cracking pace and all round I was a more than happy reader.
Release Date: 06/11/14
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
"Of power, I could tell you much. One must seize the moment, and strike." Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin. He's the scion of an honourable 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 the 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, insurgency remains a genuine threat. Escalating guerrilla attacks by resistance forces and new-found 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.
REVIEW:
Ah, one of my favourite characters (because I watching Peter Cushing) from the Star Wars Universe and of course one that now has his own chance to step to the front and allow readers the chance to get to know his own dark personality. Whilst he’s not a force user (as so many of them seem to be) the reader gets the chance to delve deeply into a side of the Empire that we’ve never really had chance to get to know.
As expected from James, the book has great pace, really allows Tarkin to step out on his own and when added to solid prose and a cracking art is perhaps one of my favourite Star Wars titles to date. A good book for the Star War’s fan in your life and one I’d definitely recommend as a Christmas gift.
Release Date: 25/09/14
Publisher: Century
SYNOPSIS:
The stage is set for the coming Rebellion against the Empire: Kanan is a Jedi. survivor of Order 66. Refusing to wield his lightsaber ever again, he makes a living as a freelance pilot, keeping his head down to avoid any Imperial attention. But when the beautiful Hera Syndulla sweeps into his life at the same time his friends and his livelihood are being threatened by an Imperial plot, he faces the biggest choice of his life: keep hiding ...or or make a stand and risk the wrath of the Empire.
REVIEW:
OK, as a huge fan of the Star War’s franchise, I can be found quite often tavelling the galaxy with a fair few ships and with a new TV series about to start, fans needed a special introduction to the two principle heroes and what John delivers here is a title that will satisfy the reader.
The prose is sharp, the characters delightful and when added to the fact that we have the birth of the rebellion alongside a cracking overall arc, we know that its going to just go from good to great. All round a book that I was more than happy to spend the time with and one that I’ll be reading to my nephews to get them preparedl. Dum, Dum, DumDum, dum de dum, dum de dum.
