NEWS: Topps Release Star Wars Universe Sticker Collection - Topps

Hail Mighty Readers and Fans from from a galaxy far far away,
Our friends at Topps have let us know about the new Star Wars Sticker Collection released on the 25th May. Here's what they had to say:
"TOPPS CELEBRATE 40 YEARS OF STAR WARS WITH UNIVERSE STICKER COLLECTION

On the 40th anniversary of the very first Star Wars film, Topps, the UK’s leading collectibles company, is proud to present their biggest and most immersive sticker collection yet: Star Wars Universe!

The latest collection from Topps spans all eight Star Wars films from the past 40 years, including the recent Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. The collection of Star Wars Universe stickers is the ultimate compendium for collectors of all ages.

Fans will be able to explore the world of Star Wars from the time of the Clone Wars through the rise of the First Order, discovering the history of the Jedi and seductive power of the dark side along the way.

Additionally, there will be added incentives including special foil stickers, die-cut shaped stickers, and even historic movie stickers.

With 344 stickers to collect, Star Wars fans will learn about all the weapons and ships from the franchise including the Death Star, the evil Sith, and the heroic Rebel Alliance.

Louise Ramplin, Entertainment Marketing Manager at Topps, comments: “Star Wars was unleashed to the world and changed the cinematic landscape forever on May 25th, 1977. Now on the 40th anniversary, we are proud to celebrate the thrilling space saga with our biggest Star Wars collection yet. We’re confident the collection will be an instant hit with collectors and movie goers alike.”

The Star Wars Universe collection will be on sale May 25th. Starter Packs will retail at £2.99 including six packets of stickers. Individual packs of five stickers will retail at 50p."

So whether you're a Rebel or with the Republic, nows your chance to get started.



Gareth and Lady Eleanor

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.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Catalyst - James Luceno

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.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Bloodline - Claudia Gray

Release Date: 01/12/16
Publisher:  Arrow

SYNOPSIS:

WITNESS THE BIRTH OF THE RESISTANCE

When the Rebellion defeated the Empire in the skies above Endor, Leia Organa believed it was the beginning to a lasting peace. But after decades of vicious infighting and partisan gridlock in the New Republic Senate, that hope seems like a distant memory.

Now a respected senator, Leia must grapple with the dangers that threaten to cripple the fledgling democracy―from both within and without. Underworld kingpins, treacherous politicians, and Imperial loyalists are sowing chaos in the galaxy. Desperate to take action, senators are calling for the election of a First Senator. It is their hope that this influential post will bring strong leadership to a divided galaxy.

As the daughter of Darth Vader, Leia faces with distrust the prospect of any one person holding such a powerful position―even when supporters suggest Leia herself for the job. But a new enemy may make this path Leia’s only option. For at the edges of the galaxy, a mysterious threat is growing…


REVIEW:

I've had this title for a bit and to be honest having read it after recent events left me feeling not only melancholly but also fulfilled in certain respects as you get to know the principle character of Leia on a deeper level. Claudia has worked very hard on getting not only the "voice" of Leia right but also on allowng us to see her develop nito the woman of power she'd become.

Its emotional, it is a great addition to the star wars mythos and all round left me with a sense that we had so much more to get from her in the future outings that we'll sadly not get to see.

All round a book that I'm pleased I'd saved and one that deserves to be rated highly in the Star War's Pantheon. Magical.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Alan Dean Foster

Release Date: 27/09/16
Publisher: Del Rey

SYNOPSIS:

More than thirty years ago, Star Wars burst onto the big screen and became a cultural phenomenon. Now the next adventures in this blockbuster saga are poised to captivate old and new fans alike beginning with the highly anticipated Star Wars: The Force Awakens. And alongside the cinematic debut comes the thrilling novel adaptation by New York Times bestselling science fiction master Alan Dean Foster.
Set years after Return of the Jedi, this stunning new action-packed adventure rockets us back into the world of Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca, C-3PO, R2-D2, and Luke Skywalker, while introducing a host of exciting new characters. Darth Vader may have been redeemed and the Emperor vanquished, but peace can be fleeting, and evil does not easily relent. Yet the simple belief in good can still empower ordinary individuals to rise and meet the greatest challenges.
So return to that galaxy far, far away, and prepare yourself for what happens when the Force awakens. . . .


REVIEW:

Book adaptations of films are always tricky. They either get it right or they feel so stinted that you're left wondering why they attempted it in the first place as the sentences are not only clipped but to the point and almost childish.

Whilst this is the first Star War's film adaptation for quite some time, for me I feel that the selection of Alan was the right one. He knows how to bring characters across wonderfully, gives the reader the chance to see the emotional inner workings alongside consequences of choices and keeps the tale moving at a solid pace whilst giving you all the action alongside tension of a film.

All round a good adaptation and one that I read way before seeing the film for the first time. Cracking.

SCIENCE FICTION NEWS: Century announce Star Wars Catalyst: A Rogue One Novel - James Luceno

Our first news article of today and osmething for all Star War's Fans:

Star Wars: Catalyst: A Rogue One Story by James Luceno

Published by Century on 17^th November, priced £19.99

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.


We can't wait to get our hands on it,



Gareth and Lady Eleanor

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Aftermath: Life Debt - Chuck Wendig

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.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Battlefront: Twilight Company - Alex Freed

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.)

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Aftermath - Chuck Wendig

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.

SCIENC FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Dark Disciple - Christie Golden

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.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Lords of the Sith - Paul S Kemp

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.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Tarkin - James Luceno

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.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: A New Dawn - John Jackson Miller

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.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Legends: Kenobi - John Jackson Miller

Release Date: 28/08/14
Publisher:  Arrow Books

SYNOPSIS:

The greatest hero in the galaxy faces his toughest challenge yet: He must stop being Obi-Wan - and become Crazy Old Ben. For fans of movie-related novels like Darth Plagueis! In this original novel set between the events of Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith and Episode IV A New Hope, Obi-Wan Kenobi comes to the aid of the residents of Tatooine during his exile. But he struggles with his new mission when he realizes that protecting Luke Skywalker - the last hope of the galaxy - means setting aside his compassion and his Jedi warrior training, for the future of the galaxy lies not with Obi-Wan Kenobi, but with a mystical desert recluse known only by the name of Crazy Old Ben.


REVIEW:

Ah a real treat for fans of the Star War’s Universe as we get to see Ben in his early days. It’s full of action, has cracking prose and when added to top notch dialogue as well as having an author who clearly not only understands Ben but brings more a clearer understanding to a very complex character all round generates a story that was a pure joy to sit back and read.

All round a great book and one that I feel will really add something extra to the Star Wars Universe for fans. Just don’t let this one sail by you.

SCIENCE FICTION FILM TIE IN: Star Wars: Book of Sith - Daniel Wallace

Release Date: 17/04/13
Publisher: Titan

SYNOPSIS:

The Sith have existed in the galaxy for centuries, lurking, waiting for their chance to seize control. In his quest for domination, Darth Sidious tracked down five pivotal Sith texts written by his most powerful predecessors. Then, drawing on the knowledge within the compiled pages, he wrote a sixth text - his own manifesto. Together, these documents shed light on the philosophy, achievements, and failures of the Sith Order.


REVIEW:

Fans of the Star Wars Universe will have a lot of fun with the latest companion that follows fast on the heels of the Jedi handbook as ancient Sith documents come together to give a fuller flavour of the darkside in a manuscript that has been owned by several known characters.

Carefully crafted, the reader gets top notch illustrations alongside the history of the anti-jedi order which all round makes this book a cracking title for the fan in your life’s shelf so much so that I can think of several who’ll be clamouring to be my own “apprentice.” Just remember those who follow the Sith path tend to murder their masters.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: The Last Jedi - Michael Reaves and maya Kaathry Bohnhoff

Release Date: 07/03/13
Publisher:  Arrow Books

SYNOPSIS:

Ever since Emperor Palpatine's Order 66 - which called for the execution of all Jedi - Jax Pavan is the last Knight around to fight the dark side of the Force. Together with his droid I-5, Jax has eluded Vader time and again, all the while wreaking havoc against the Empire through the underground resistance on Coruscant. But now the Rebel's leader on the city-planet has been captured, and it's up to the Last Jedi to ride again ...possibly for one final adventure.


REVIEW:

I’m a huge fan of the Star Wars Universe so when I get chance to delve into the dark times when the Jedi were in hiding and Vader was at his pinnacle, I really can’t wait to see what happens. This book by Michael and Maya hits a lot of my expectations with a cracking lead character, some wonderful illusion and brings to the fore a sleight of hand so much so that you’re left wondering how its going to continue so much so that when I hit about half way through and was left for a while in the doldrums until it picked up again a little later, almost as if the story had been expanded from a very sharp novella to reach novel length.

This of course left me feeling a little cheated and to be blunt I’d rather have cut out a lot of the unnecessary bumf that was added purely so I could keep to the meat of the tale. That said it is still a cracking story but for me, the editing could have been tighter to keep the reader on the edge of their seats.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars Essential Readers Guide - Pablo Hidalgo, Chris Trevas, Jeff Carlisle

Release Date: 19/10/12

SYNOPSIS:

From the original movie tie-in novel through the monumental "Fate of the Jedi" series, legions of devoted readers have helped expand science fiction's most celebrated film saga into a page-turning print sensation. Now, for the first time, a comprehensive overview of these sweeping "Star Wars" adventures is presented in one beautifully illustrated volume.


REVIEW:

With so many books out there in the Star Wars series its become quite difficult at times to work out what appears where and when in the immense history of this phenomena. So to be honest I was more than thankful when this guide from Titan appeared. Not that I can’t quite remember what occurs when but I have at times thought that certain events had occurred in other titles and mixed up the odd plot line with another book.

What this companion does is split the tales up in the various era’s in which they appear with wonderful asides including storylines unused. It’s a wonderful companion and to be honest I’ve had to buy a duplicate copy as I’m loathed to let my brother anywhere near this. Add to this cracking illustrations, a knowledgeable history of the world to which the tales pertain and of course all wrapped up in easy to access sections make this a cracking title to own for any Star Wars fan. Great stuff.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: X-Wing: Mercy Kill - Aaron Allston

Release Date: 16/08/12

SYNOPSIS:

"The X-Wing/Wraith Squadron" books are one of the most popular series in the history of "Star Wars" novels. Now, the intrepid spy/pilots of "Wraith Squadron" are back in an all-new "Star Wars" adventure set in the time just after the events of the "New York Times" bestselling "Fate of the Jedi" series! "Wraith Squadron" was Wedge Antilles' boldest creation: a covert-action unit of "X-Wing" fighters, its pilots drawn from the dregs of other units, castoffs and rejects given one last chance. Now, years after their thrilling adventures during and after the Rebellion that destroyed the Empire, they're back to deal with a brand-new mission.


REVIEW:

OK, I have to admit to a fondness for the star rebel fighter, I fell in love with it in the original Star Wars film (Star Wars 4: A New Hope) and loved the series that was released nearly 20 years ago. So I was wondering what this next gen on pilots would add to the mythos of those that have gone before.

What occurs in the title was a story that worked to the strengths of the X-Wing, fast action, hard hitting and of course with characters that you could get behind such as the daughter of the original pilot Wedge Antilles. Add to this an author who also has a love of giving the reader cracking dog fight sequences alongside top notch prose and all in I was more than happy with this title.

SCIENCE FICTION REVIEW: Star Wars: Lost Tribe of the Sith: The Collected Stories - John Jackson Miller

Release Date: 02/08/12

SYNOPSIS:

BThis collection of nine "Lost Tribe of the Sith" stories is suitable for fans of the "New York Times" bestselling "Fate of the Jedi" series, as it features the origin story of the tribe of Sith that play such a crucial role in those novels. The bestselling "Fate of the Jedi" novels introduce the "Star Wars" universe to a long-forgotten tribe of Sith. This collection of stories tells the origin of that tribe. Written by John Jackson Miller, this paperback will include all eight of the "Lost Tribe of the Sith" stories, as well as "Pandemonium", the never-before-seen final chapter that will only be available in this collection.


REVIEW:

This is not only an interesting book but one that, for me, works pretty as a lost sith ship seeks to survive on a primitive planet. It’s different and the usually antagonistic sith have to learn to work together whilst also adding their own unique twists to the situation.

It’s definitely something that is different to a lot of other books in the universe and for its uniqueness it has to be one of my favourites as I found that the writing style worked very well for the format, add to this some great twists, an overall arc linking the tales within and of course some kick ass action to keep fans more than happy and all in this book was a real joy. Great stuff.

SCIENCE FICTION FILM TIE IN: Star Wars: The Essential Guide to Warfare - Jason Fry and Paul R Urquhart

Release Date: 03/04/12

SYNOPSIS:

Like many a great epic, Star Wars is rooted in a rich history of armed conflict. Now, for the first time, the facts, figures, and backstories of major clashes and combatants in the Star Wars universe have been documented in this fully illustrated volume. Combining action-filled narrative with encyclopedic knowledge and encompassing all Star Wars media, this is a conquering achievement!


REVIEW:

I hate to say this but my Twin is a Jedi Geek, if its to do with the Star War’s Universe he collects all the books, has all the figures (and most of the ships) and to be honest I’m always on the lookout for something special for his Birthday or Christmas. When this book from Titan landed, I sat down and started reading and became not only engrossed but really happy that this book had landed as I know its not like any other book he has.

Add to this wonderful illustrations by a whole host of known artists, wonderful descriptions that add more to the universe and a way to dip into the Universe to keep not only the fan interested but fascinate the curious and all in it was a wonderful addition for any fans collection. Finally add to this wonderfully woven histories as well as clear concise information that has appeared within the novels and personally I don’t think you can go wrong with it.