Book Description
There are moments glimpsed only in shadow, where darkness rules and evil incarnate thrives. You hope against hope that in your lifetime, evil is relegated to the shadows. But what if it wasn't?
What if you lived in a universe where your life was measured only by what you could do for the Empire? What would you do to survive? Would you sell your soul to free yourself? If you were offered the chance to rule, would you seize it? If you could free your universe from the darkness but only at the cost of your life, would you pay that price?
Star Trek: Enterprise® She seized power in a heartbeat, daring to place herself against all the overlords of the Empire. Empress Hoshi Sato knows the future that could be; now all she has to do is make sure it never happens. For her to rule, she must hold sway not only over the starship from the future but also over her warlords, the resistance, and her Andorian husband. As quickly and brutally as Hoshi seized power, imperial rule is taken from her. Her only chance to rule again is to ally herself with a lifelong foe, and an alien.
Star Trek® One man can change the future, but does he dare? Spock, intrigued by the vision of another universe's Federation, does what no Vulcan, no emperor, has ever done: seize power in one blinding stroke of mass murder. And at the same instant he gains imperial power, Spock sows the seeds for the Empire's downfall. Is this a form of Vulcan madness, or is it the coolly logical plan of a man who knows the price his universe must pay for its freedom?
Star Trek: The Next Generation® Humanity is a pitiful collection of enslaved, indentured, and abused peoples. No one dares to question the order, except at peril of their lives. One man survives by blinding himself to the misery around him. However, Jean-Luc Picard resists, just once. And in that one instant he unlocks a horror beyond the tyranny of the Alliance. Can a man so beaten down by a lifetime of oppression stop the destruction?
Customer Reviews:
The Mirror Universe is one of the best Star Trek concepts..........2007-09-16
If you like Star Trek buy this book. But first watch the Mirror Universe episodes so you're not lost. :)
Mirror Universe Part 1: Glass Empires (Star Trek Mirror Universe).......2007-09-14
First story line was good, the second one with Spock was excellent. I really enjoyed reading that one. I really enjoyed reading these books.
The only thing I wish for is that the authors of Star Trek keep track of each other's works so they don't contradict each other. I have noticed, between this one and Book II, especially Book II, there are contradictions between these books and "Star Trek Dark Passions Books one and two".
For example, how the Terran empire fell, who was in charge. In these books Spock was the Emporer. In Dark Passions, Spock was merely a Captain, yet both deal with the Mirror Images. Kira Nerys position is different in both, and their situations are far different. Though their personalities are similar.
I would recommend to read one or the other but not both. Though I enjoyed these two books, I preferred Dark Passions series.
Fall of the Terran Empire.......2007-07-15
There are Trek timeline inconsistencies, for example, the length of time that Terrans et al became subject to the lethal Alliance wouldn't be as long as "generations" as quoted in the book. The episodes seem to suggest less than a hundred years, probably even less than half a century (given that the average human lifespan is about 75 years).
Also, it would seem that the author did not take into consideration "Dark Mirror" (Diane Duane), in which a lethal version of Picard captained a dreadnought Enterprise-D. However, I was able to mentally set aside the Duane work to realise that the canon episodes never included their own Mirror Universe TNG.
The book itself was clearly well thought out, a feasible route to destruction of the tyrannical Terran Empire...unfortunately to be surmounted by the even more tyrannical Klingon-Cardassian Alliance.
Enjoyable read, even if it does place our favourite characters in an unpleasant "what-if" situation.
Not too keen on the larger font print. 3.5 stars.
2 out of 3 are great stories.......2007-05-26
I say that two out of three stories are great because the Enterprise era story and the TOS era story were both spectacular. The TNG era story wasn't that great but the author of that one isn't one of my favorites either so I may be biased.
More adventures in the Mirror Universe!.......2007-05-10
Three stories that flow together to form a great picture of the Mirror Universe. Exciting, logical (sorry, couldn't resist) and a joy to read! Highly recommended.
Book Description
It's five years after Return of the Jedi: the Rebel Alliance has destroyed the Death Star, defeated Darth Vader and the Emperor, and driven out the remnants of the old Imperial Starfleet to a distant corner of the galaxy. Princess Leia and Han Solo are married and expecting Jedi Twins. And Luke Skywalker has become the first in a long-awaited line of Jedi Knights. But thousand of light-years away, the last of the emperor's warlords has taken command of the shattered Imperial Fleet, readied it for war, and pointed it at the fragile heart of the new Republic. For this dark warrior has made two vital discoveries that could destroy everything the courageous men and women of the Rebel Alliance fought so hard to build. The explosive confrontation that results is a towering epic of action, invention, mystery, and spectacle on a galactic scale--in short, a story worthy of the name Star Wars.
Customer Reviews:
Not Free SF Reader.......2007-09-03
Some years after the events in the Star Wars movie, the New Republic is
beginning to encounter political problems, and having to deal with
governing and routing out rebels.
Along comes something nastier. A grand admiral of the Empire, with
a very potent battle fleet at his command, and a very impressive
ability to utilise it.
The beginning of the publishing of 100 billion books of what I suppose you could call '21st century pulp'.
This series is pretty decent, however.
awful.......2007-08-23
i can't believe people like this book.it's realy awful.and i bought this book when there was no new star wars books out and i was starving for something new from star wars.i would keep reading the old brian dalye or alan dean foster books.but i guess being spoiled by those writers reading zahn's book coulnd only be a dissapointment.and i really wanted to like this book.he just copies too much from the other writers instead of making something new.i mean an old jedi master.hey people use your brain trying to make another obi-wan character,sheesh!.
best of the Star Wars stories.......2007-06-24
Heir To The Empire is part one of The Thrawn Trilogy by Timothy Zahn. This trilogy is set 5 years after Return of the Jedi. Han Solo and Princess Leia are married and are expecting Jedi twins. The Empire, lead by Grand Admiral Thrawn (best villian since Vader), plan to capture Leia and turn her and her twins to the Dark Side of the Force. Very highly recommended.
The Thrawn Trilogy consists of:
The Heir To The Empire
Dark Force Rising
The Last Command
Readable but annoyingly written continuation of original trilogy.......2007-06-13
My curiosity finally got the better of me, so I decided I would read the official continuation of the Star Wars story post Return of the Jedi. It starts out familiarizing the reader with a glossing over of the post Death Star V2 Emperor defeat happenings and jumps right into the activities of the new self appointed head of the Imperial forces, Admiral Thrawn who has been successfully raiding New Republic bases and supply lines. He has a plan to reinsert the Empire into their previous spot as bully overlord of the galaxy and Heir to the Empire is the jumping off point for this story, which takes three books to wrap up.
First off, it's an easy read. The story flows at a pretty good pace and seems to match the films in this respect. There are plenty of new characters that are realized relatively well and only seem out of place sometimes by name more than anything else. Some of the names of the characters just don't seem appropriate for Star Wars and it can be a little distracting, but not terribly so. What is more distracting however, and what makes these books less successful for me, is the lazy writing of the author. He can only describe moods with lip characterizations and most of the time, it's of the "so and so's lip twisted" variety, like...
Han is mad: His lip twists
Luke is worried: His lip twists
Leia is frightened: Her lip twists
Luke is determined: His lip twists
C3PO is acting dandy: His... Just kidding (Zahn probably had to hold himself back none the less)
He also comes up with new ideas of how to describe things and just starts using them all of a sudden but doesn't go back to insert them into earlier parts of the book. It's just weird when a character starts using a phrase all of a sudden, frequently, and they never used it for the first half of the book. How hard would it be to go back and place it in earlier parts of the book to make the character's use of language consistent?
And don't get me started on the Mynocks! "The thingy took off like a Mynock with a scorched tail." "It fell to the ground like a clipped Mynock." "He chortled like a bemused Mynock." "She ate like an anorexic Mynock."... and on and on.
Additionally,these characters, and maybe this was unavoidable but I don't think so, live completely in the past that is the 3 prequels. They are not given much of a life before them, in memory, so all of their recall harks back to the films (like we need to be reminded what happened) and that gets old real quick. Everything is "this is just like it happened on the Death Star" or "don't you remember what he did at Mos Eisley?" or "Luke thought back to the cave on Daigobah." Where's that extra mystery of the stuff we didn't see? It's like sitting around a bunch of people who only reminisce about a small period in their lives... Enough!
Well, I guess I'm trying to say that Heir to the Empire is not very well written, but the story is relatively interesting, easy to read, and, well, it tells us what happens to Luke and all of the rest after Return of the Jedi. I imagine a lot of people don't expect to find something literate in a book like this, but, maybe just once, I would like to be surprised.
Best of a shot-in-the-dark lot.......2007-05-27
Star Wars novels are often hit or miss, with many of them being completely unappealing to non-star wars nerds. Speaking as one of those nerds, I've read quite a few of the Star Wars novels, and the entire Hand of Thrawn trilogy is one of the few that stands on it's own not just as a good Star Wars series, but as an excellent general science fiction story as well. Timothy Zahn has an eye for detail that escapes most authors of any genre, and has carefully crafted a fantastic story that has something for every reader to enjoy.
The trilogy focuses both on the difficulties of setting up a new government to replace the old Empire, the number of things still mysterious and unknown even in a well-known universe, and the artful style with which a true strategist could use the resources of the Star Wars universe.
If I could rate it higher than five stars, I would.
Average customer rating:
- Filling in the Star Wars blanks
- If you've never read a Star Wars novel before, try this one
- Nice bridge if a little light
- Episode 5.5
- Filling in the Gaps
|
Shadows of the Empire (Star Wars)
Steve Perry
Manufacturer: Spectra
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
 Perry, Steve | ( P ) | Authors, A-Z | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books | Alternate History | Anthologies | Arthurian | Contemporary | Epic | General | Historical | History & Criticism | Magic & Wizards | Series
General | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Media Series | Series | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
General | Fiction | Star Wars | Media | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
( P ) | Authors, A-Z | Science Fiction & Fantasy | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books | Pratchett, Terry
Star Wars | Media | Science Fiction & Fantasy | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
General | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Media Series | Series | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:
-
The Truce at Bakura (Star Wars)
-
Star Wars: Splinter of the Mind's Eye
-
Heir to the Empire (Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy, Vol. 1)
-
Dark Force Rising (Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy, Vol. 2)
-
The Last Command (Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy, Vol. 3)
ASIN: 0553574132
Release Date: 1997-03-03 |
Book Description
Shadows of the Empire illuminates the shadowy outlines of a criminal conspiracy that exists in the background of the events in the movies, ruled by a character new to us. Prince Xizor is a mastermind of evil who dares to oppose one of the best-known fictional villains of all time: Darth Vader. The story involves all the featured Star Wars movie characters, plus Emperor Palpatine and, of course, Lord Vader himself.
Customer Reviews:
Filling in the Star Wars blanks.......2007-08-22
Shadows of the Empire takes place between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Han Solo is frozen in carbonite but has not yet been taken to Jabba's palace. Leia, Luke, Lando and our two favorite droids are on a quest to find Boba Fett and retrieve Han. They are joined in this quest by Dash Rendar, a cocky hotshot pilot, very reminiscent of Han Solo himself. Three very significant characters stand in their way - Darth Vader, Prince Xizor of Black Sun, and Xizor's amazing apprentice Guri.
Prince Xizor of the Falleen race is an intriguing character. He is the ultimate crime lord, and his life is filled schemes and double-dealings as he runs the huge crime syndicate of Black Sun plus some other legitimate enterprises. He is considered to be the third most important person in the galaxy behind the Emperor and Lord Vader, and he wants to move up. The point of all the Machiavellian schemes he develops during this period is to get rid of Vader and become #2 in the Empire. Even that would not satisfy him. Xizor's self esteem is extremely high. He has never met an individual who is his equal. Of course, he and Vader do not see eye to eye on most things.
The key individual in the story is Luke Skywalker. The Emperor fells that Luke is strong enough in the Force to pose a real danger to the Empire. He wants Luke out of the picture. Vader wants to keep the boy alive and turn him to the dark side. Xizor sees an opportunity here to cause trouble for Vader, so he puts out orders to have Luke assassinated. He also sends Guri to meet with Leia and to bring her back to Xizor's palace in Coruscant. Guri is an extremely advanced droid who looks completely like a human female. Her fighting skills appear to be unmatched. Leia and Chewie end up at Xizor's palace being used as bait to draw Luke in. Of course, Luke does come to the rescue. Luke, Lando, and Dash Rendar have memorable scenes making their way through the sewers below the palace and making their way up through the palace to find Leia. The last few chapters of the book tie things together very neatly and leave us set for Return of the Jedi. Maybe they will rescue Han at last.
Shadows of the Empire is an excellent tale, and Mr. Perry has done a good job with it. The story fits nicely in the time period between Empire and Jedi. I highly recommend this one.
If you've never read a Star Wars novel before, try this one.......2007-06-08
In 1996 the marketing team at Lucasfilm developed an innovative concept for a major cross-channel promotion: they proposed Shadows of the Empire, a Star Wars movie without the movie. What did this mean? It meant all the trappings of a movie were released: a novelization, a full orchestral score, a videogame, comic books, toy lines, statues, and sundry other widgets, but there was never an actual movie for them to center around. Each aspect of the campaign emphasized different aspects of the story, but the core tale was contained in Steve Perry's novel. The idea seemed to meet with mixed success, as the Shadows toys, statues, and some of the other odd products lingered on the pegs a terribly long time, but the Nintendo 64 videogame is fondly remembered by many and the score by Joel McNeely is absolutely terrific (pick up a copy if you haven't heard it before!)
Shadows of the Empire fills in some of the blank space between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, a year left largely untapped except in the Marvel comic series. Perry works hard to build a strong bridge between the two films and succeeds beautifully, exploring some of the emotional aftermath of the climax of Episode V and setting up the opening section of Episode VI. Of course, Han Solo spends the duration of this novel frozen in a block of carbonite, but the majority of the other main film characters all get a chance to shine.
The novel introduces us to Black Sun, the galaxy far, far away's leading organized crime syndicate. Black Sun is headed by the brilliant, charismatic, egotistical Falleen Prince Xizor, the third most powerful person in the galaxy after our old favorites Emperor Palpatine and Darth Vader. Xizor's constant preening and self-admiration make for slightly tiresome reading, but he does play a role distinct from the usual Sith and Imperial villains in other Star Wars novels. Being the third most powerful person is not quite enough for the Prince, and so much of the plot of Shadows of the Empire is driven by his scheming against Darth Vader and his attempts to kill Vader's son. The Falleen species is endowed with some slightly creepy abilities to attract mates, and Xizor almost leads Leia, newly separated from her love Han Solo, down a very unpleasant path. Fortunately stalwart Chewbacca is on hand to help Leia escape Xizor's pheromone-driven trap. This sequence was unusual reading for a Star Wars novel, and although it is deliberately rather icky, I give Perry credit for exploring these themes rather than sticking solely to action sequences.
The other main new character is Dash Rendar, virtually a "carbon" copy of A New Hope-era Han Solo. Dash is a smuggler and superb pilot who was doing a job for the Rebel Alliance when the Empire struck the Hoth base. Dash always looks out for himself first and drops sarcastic wisecracks right and left. However, maybe Dash isn't as shallow as he first appears, and perhaps by the end of the story he'll find the need to look out for others and the ability for self-sacrifice. Sound familiar? I didn't really mind this character but Perry could have made a little more effort to make him less of a second-tier Han Solo.
The story itself is a rollicking thrill-ride. Perry takes us all over the galaxy as our heroes try to track down Boba Fett and Vader and Xizor try to track down our heroes. We learn the back story of the "many Bothans" who died procuring the Death Star II plans, how Leia got the Boushh bounty hunter disguise she uses in Return of the Jedi, how Luke spent time enhancing his Jedi skills and constructing his new lightsaber, and many other interesting tidbits. The characterization of Vader maps well with the new information we learned about Anakin Skywalker in the prequels, and it's nice to see a new element introduced to the Emperor/Vader plotting in the form of Xizor. R2 and 3PO have a hysterical sequence piloting the Millennium Falcon across Coruscant (it's rare that a Star Wars novel makes me laugh out loud). Perry writes in a brisk, cinematic style, and it is quite easy to picture this novel as a good film, an Episode Five-and-a-Half, if you will.
Shadows of the Empire does a terrific job of detailing the story between the final two films in the saga. Depending on which stories a reader considers to be canon, there are either many or very few tales set during the original trilogy. Personally, I would love to see more novels covering this period of time, as well as the three years between A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back. These years host the only stories with the opportunity to directly explore the Vader-Luke dynamic, an element so central to the films. The ancillary products such as the toys, comics, and especially the soundtrack further enhance the Shadows experience. This book is highly recommended to everyone, including readers trying their first Star Wars novel.
Nice bridge if a little light.......2007-04-24
I really enjoyed this book. I always wanted some link between the Luke at the end of ESB and the beginning of ROTJ - one broken and fragile, the other darkly confident and calling himself "Jedi." And since he is my favorite character, I love that this book takes him through that process, albeit in less depth than seems warranted.
Inconsistencies in Luke's character abound, however, which jarred with the character arc I had been longing to see. His attitude and dialogue in places seem more juvenile than in Episode IV. I realize that these things change by the end of the book, but they do not match the characters we leave at the end of Empire Strikes Back; this takes away much of the book's cred.
Glitches in style also undermine it - while the author has great pacing, and I don't mind his switching between characters with a jerk for that cause - he FAR too often ends a segment with two or three more lines than necessary, degenerating into hilarious cheesiness where it could have been compelling. Sigh. "Luke hoped Leia was okay." "Luke had to think of something. Something fast... What?" These things cause eye-rolling after the tenth time. So do many thinly derived conclusions on the part of characters who should have needed more evidence.
Dash is annoying, I'm sorry, in life and in death. His only merit is giving Luke a Jedi-worthy crisis of conscience towards the finale. And Leia, while a great gal here, needed to fall for a lizard while Han was frozen WHY?? Her newfound love for Han is a bit tarnished in a plot arc for no good reason.
Having said all that, Shadows is truly an irresistible read for a die-hard Luke fan, and Vader is handled very well, without goofiness or excessive sulking. In fact, Vader's take here on his relationship with Luke enhances all future read/views of Return of the Jedi. This puts Shadows on my must-borrow list and Perry on the thank-you-for-not-butchering-my-Star-Wars list with Zahn, somewhere. :)
Episode 5.5.......2007-04-17
This is the novel that connects the dots between Episodes V and VI. The novel starts firmly planted in The Empire Strikes Back with the Emperor's holo-message to Vader - but this time from Palpatine's point of view (and although Vader didn't know it, the Emperor was not alone). And then several months later Princess Leia wakes up from a nightmare about Han Solo being frozen on Cloud City.
Many questions arise about the time between the two Star Wars sequels, and this novel has the answers. How did Luke Skywalker, severely demoralized by finding out the true identity of his father and feeling that Obi-Wan Kenobi had lied to him, go from being a Jedi padawan with incomplete training to a confident, powerful Jedi Knight in every way except for his final trial? Who completed Luke's training? How did Luke construct his new lightsaber? Why didn't Boba Fett deliver Han to Jabba the Hutt right away? Who died to make Jabba the most powerful crime lord in the galaxy? How did Leia get her Boushh disguise and thermal detonators? How did Wedge Antilles become the leader of the Rebel's elite X-fighter squadron? How did the Bothans bring the Alliance the information about the second Death Star? If the droids ever tried to pilot the Millennium Falcon through Coruscant while Han was frozen, would you ever tell him about it?
Shadows of the Empire ends with Luke hiding his lightsaber in R2-D2 and recording his message for Jabba. This novel is an adventurous story very worthy of the Star Wars name. And this BOOK even has it's own SOUNDTRACK!
Star Wars: Shadows Of The Empire [Enhanced CD]
I also highly recommend the following 5-star novels that are extremely relevant to the prequel trilogy:
Cloak of Deception (Star Wars)
Shadow Hunter (Star Wars: Darth Maul)
Labyrinth of Evil (Star Wars, Episode III Prequel Novel)
Dark Lord: The Rise of Darth Vader (Star Wars)
Filling in the Gaps.......2007-03-05
Steve Perry's "Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire" explores events between the two films "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi" just as Timothy Zahn's new book "Allegiance" bridges the gap between "A New Hope" and "The Empire Strikes Back".
Zahn established himself as the best writer of Star Wars fiction with his Thrawn trilogy following on from "Return of the Jedi": "Heir to the Empire", "Dark Force Rising" and "The Last Command". In "Shadows of the Empire" Perry comes close to Zahn's class in serving a similar function.
One of Zahn's strengths has been the creation of new characters who have taken their place in the Star Wars universe, like Mara Jade and Grand Admiral Zahn. In "Shadows of the Empire" Perry provides fascinating background into Prince Xizor, leader of the Black Sun criminal network, and his human-like killer droid Guri, characters also featured in A.C. Crispin's "Han Solo trilogy" tracing Han's life before the fateful day he met an old man and a kid in a Mos Eisley cantina: "Paradise Trap", "The Hutt Gambit" and "Rebel Dawn", which seem to have been published in 1997, after "Shadows of the Empire".
"Shadows of the Empire" features all the main characters of the final two Star Wars films, with the exception of Han Solo, who is still in carbonite. The action concerns the Rebels' efforts to free Han, and along the way we learn things like how Leia came by her bounty hunter suit and a thermal detonator, and how Luke made his first light saber.
In the NPR radio series of "Return of the Jedi", which goes into greater detail than the film, filling in many gaps, when Han is rescued he criticises Lando for letting C3PO fly the Millennium Falcon. That flight is in "Shadows of the Empire".
Average customer rating:
- Predictable and boring
- Absolutely TERRIBLE
- O.K. visuals, story a little lacking
- pitifully bad
- Great Read!
|
Fall of the Sith Empire (Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi)
Kevin J. Anderson ,
Mark Heike , and
Various
Manufacturer: Dark Horse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Popular Culture | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Comics & Graphic Novels | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Magic | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
General | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
General | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Dark Horse | Publishers | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Characters | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books | Classics | Comic | Contemporary | Literary
Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Media Series | Series | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Tales of the Jedi | Comics | Star Wars | Media | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
-
The Golden Age of the Sith (Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi)
-
The Sith War (Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi, Volume Three)
-
Star Wars: Jedi Vs. Sith
-
Knights of the Old Republic (Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi, Volume One)
-
Dark Lords of the Sith (Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi, Volume Two)
ASIN: 1569713200 |
Book Description
The Sith Empire has rallied its forces for an all-out battle for control of the galaxy. Its goal: Crush the Republic. And with so many Sith Masters among them, the goal is not unachievable. As Naga Sadow readies his fleet to attack, one lone person threatens to undermine the entire campaign -- Jori Daragon. She isn`t a Jedi. She`s an explorer, a mapper of hyperspace who stumbled on the plans of the Sith. And she just may be the savior of the Republic.
Customer Reviews:
Predictable and boring.......2006-11-10
Welcome to what is at this writing still the earliest chapter in the history of the Star Wars universe, a tale set 5000 years before the adventures of the film series.
CAVEAT ONE
Before you consider buying this, be aware that this volume is but one half of the story and that the first half is available in The Golden Age of the Sith. This review covers both volumes.
CAVEAT TWO
If you're a pathological Star Wars collector, you'll buy this book regardless of its contents. If you're a Star Wars fan who wants to catch up on your history, save your money and read a summary of the events at Wookieepedia. If you're a discerning comics fan, then you must have found your way here by mistake. If so, don't stop. Keep moving. Everyone else, step right this way.
Despite a title that suggests something we never see, namely the glory days of the Sith Empire, author Kevin J Anderson came up with a promising premise. At opposite ends of the universe, the Sith Empire and the fledgling Republic seek to chart new futures, the Republic to end years of civil war and forge a new era of political and economic stability and growth, the Sith to revitalize their moribund Empire by throwing off their isolation and launching a new era of growth through conquest. In between are the innocents through which we view these events, a scholarly Jedi called to arms and a pair of young space navigators, brother and sister who through their explorations inadvertently open the hyperspace route across which the Sith reach to shake the foundations of the newly emergent Republic.
With a setting so far back in the past, Anderson has a wonderful opportunity to develop a good part of the Star Wars backstory. We find, for example, that the Sith were a separate species living on their own world in a relatively undeveloped culture that was then hijacked by a group of exiled Jedi who enslaved the Sith and built a new culture based on veneration of the Dark Force. Over the years these Jedi interbred with the Sith and a number of them left to conquer nearby worlds and create a system-wide Empire ruled by an all-powerful Dark Lord. The Jedi themselves are scholar-warriors closely aligned with political forces preserving civilization, pretty much the same as we have always known them, with one discernable difference - they don't carry lightsabers. And neither do the Sith.
They carry swords instead; swords made of steel. They also wear sandals, toga-like garments, and capes. They fly in spaceships that have sails, and the slavers have spaceships with oars. The Sith world of Korriban looks like it was cribbed from photos of Abu Simbel, with towering Pharaonic deities ensconced on thrones overlooking wide valleys and surrounded by sphinx-like guardians. In fact much of the costume and character design, from the scarab-like symbol of the Sith ruler to the elongated chins and goatees of the Sith, evokes Egypt in very obvious ways.
The artwork, provided across both volumes by Filipino Dario Carrasco, Jr., is not terribly remarkable. It's at best serviceable, in a style reminiscent of John Buscema, one of the iron men of the comic book industry who must have drawn tens of thousands of pages for Marvel for three decades beginning in the 60's. Carrasco, Jr.'s work benefits from a change in inkers and colorist in The Fall of the Sith Empire, where the lines become a little cleaner and the colors a bit more vibrant, but still it's not work that will ever be remembered or about which anyone has ever written more than a few sentences.
The same pedestrian touch is obvious in the writing. Kevin J Anderson wrote a few Star Wars novels in the 1990's and several of those books can regularly be found in "Worst SW Novels" lists. In this particular series Anderson has no protagonist, so he needs to develop his supporting players in order to give us more than just plot. Instead we get characters that are little more than props and literary devices. The Jedi scholar is the narrative frame, the brother-sister navigators the point-of-view characters and the vector of conflict, the Republic Queen and the Sith Lord wrestling opponents wearing good-guy / bad-guy personas. No one has any particular motivation except to get us to the next scene. There's nothing suspenseful or funny or touching or wondrous; it's storytelling about as developed and predictable as painting by numbers.
And with so many other comic books out there to read, you can surely find something more engaging, more worth you time and your money than this underdeveloped Star Wars adventure.
Happy hunting.
Absolutely TERRIBLE.......2006-08-03
As I stated in a previous Star Wars book review (`Yoda: Dark Rendezvous'), gems in the literary SW Universe are scarce, sparse, few, and far in-between - this graphic novel is no exception to that rule. In a nutshell, `The Fall of the Sith Empire' sucks. Hard. For some reason, the whole prehistoric, almost Egyptianesque, civilization of an ancient Republic and advanced technology (e.g. flying starships) just didn't mesh together in my opinion. I'm not saying the suspension of disbelief in such a setting is a futile effort for a reader, but the task becomes a lot harder to envision with the uninspired art and simpleton dialogue showcased throughout this graphic novel. Aside from all of that, the story is just, well, boring: twin hyperspace explorers cruise the galaxy, one of them gets kidnapped by a Sith, the Sith lord uses the other twin to infiltrate the Republic, and then the Jedi help defend the Republic against the Sith Empire. Same ole, same ole.
The pencils by Dario Carrasco are absolutely terrible, even for 1997, which is no excuse because there was some good art in `97. The mediocre artwork is one of the biggest blunders of this book (other than the writing). The characters in `The Fall' could have looked a lot better in the hands of another more capable artist. Carrasco's Naga Sadow looks like a tall, baldheaded, humanoid-simian that drank too much pink lemonade (in reference to the reddish-pink hue of Sadow's skin). I thought the Sith - the ancient Sith nonetheless - were supposed to be the ruthless, evil servants of the dark side? Dario Carrasco's rendition of Naga Sadow portrays a silly and cowardly villain who lacks any true substance. The flagships and starship fleets are appallingly dreadful: some of them look like giant flying insects, while the plain nature of others will make you sarcastically wonder, "Well, there was no reason for any detail now was there?"
The other major problem with `The Fall of the Sith Empire' is a problem that plagues much of the SW Universe, and that problem is insipid and unimaginative stories. Keeping in mind that, as far as the SW Universe is concerned, it's pretty much all been done before and the fact that there's very little left to explore in Lucas' cash cow franchise, every now and then someone can find a nugget of creativity to weave a story of some imaginative proportions in Star Wars Land. There were no nuggets for this team of creators, and besides, it's 2006 and we all know that SW is no longer just a movie, but a way for Lucas to make more and more money. The artwork sucks; the characters are bland; the story is literally the SAME OLD story told in Star Wars (Republic vs. Sith Empire) whether ancient or contemporary; and the dialogue of the story is paper-thin.
Imagine what characters like Empress Teta, Memit Nadill, or Naga Sadow would've looked like in the hands of Frank Quiteley, Sean Chen, Sam Keith, or Ladronn. I don't know if the alien Jedi Odan-Urr is a retarded excuse of a character period, or if he's that way in the incapable hands of Carassco. Either way, Odan-Urr looks like the world's first bucktoothed alien with a huge overbite...and no lower jaw. He's absolutely the worst, dumbest, and goofiest-looking Jedi I've ever seen. And Odan-Urr's master Ooroo (gotta love those SW names) is a Jedi Master that's a talking brain in a crystalline vat of fluid...???
Besides the pencil work and inks, the colors were putrid - they're basically off-color pastels. Think children's plastic Easter eggs pastels...or thrown-up taffies of different colors. Yeah. That coupled with the boring artwork makes for a simply illustrious visual joyride...
The entire story feels rushed in a sense, perhaps not in the original issue-by-issue format; but read in the linear context of a graphic novel with no ads to interrupt the adventure, the plot sometimes moves at a needless breakneck speed. Panels make enormous leaps in elapsed time from panel-to-panel, adding to the rushed sense one gets while reading `The Fall'. Not to mention, the bland characterizations and tired seen-it-before plot along with the rushed story double the hurried effect.
Literally, writer Kevin Anderson's writing is on par with George Lucas' screenwriting abilities. The characters are dense, flat, and uninspired. One of the things Mr. Anderson should've learned from the first SW movies is that having twins in a space opera sounds good, but making the idea 100% is another thing. You have Luke and Leia; Jacen and Jaina; and in this story, Gav and Jori (what "incredible" names) - the whole twin thing in Star Wars really needs to stop. As I said before, the dialogue in this novel is just atrocious. Lines like, "I am ruler of the Sith Empire and no one can stop me," make Naga Sadow sound like a complete wiener and a villain one sees on childish cartoons: not a Dark Lord of the Sith.
I don't know if anyone agrees with me out there, but there are certain things about the SW-EU (Expanded Universe) that shouldn't have been created, like `Jedi battle meditation': that's stupid and to save it from complete ridicule, sounds a lot dumber than what it is. I like the part in the graphic novel where one of the soldiers fighting for Empress Teta tells Odan-Urr, who's on the sideline doing battle meditation at the moment, to stop sitting around and get out there and fight with the rest of them. I agree.
All in all, I think `The Fall of the Sith Empire' was a good idea that just wasn't executed correctly. No wonder `The Fall of the Sith Empire' is out of print: it needs to stay that way.
O.K. visuals, story a little lacking.......2005-08-23
This TBP is the second in the Tales of the Jedi story, if you are going chronologically in star wars time. It takes place a 1,000 years before the original Tales of the Jedi, and takes place a week or so after "Golden Age of the Sith". Out of the "TOTJ" series, it is one of the worst, but still better than most of the TBP's out there. I reccommend it for people trying to complete their TOTJ collection, not for a stand-alone read.
pitifully bad.......2005-05-18
don't waste your time. i just read through all the tales of the jedi books and this one is by far the worst, and is horribly bad. i know you might get it because you, like i did, want to read them all...but trust me you'll only be wasting time and money on this one it's that bad.
Great Read!.......2003-10-14
I do not agree with any of the negative past reviews given here. I thought Fall of the Sith Empire was a fitting conclusion to the setup in The Golden Age of the Sith. The information within and its events lead up to other comic and Star Wars storylines. It is told more like a story passed down for generations, a feeling I think the author wanted. In actuallity it is a story told from the events known to a young jedi who is now a master. He is later seen, much older, in the Dark lords of the Sith series (the story of Exar Kun).So there is not great detail in points that do not need more info. You are getting the basic story as to what happened and why, and that is great. No one else has tried to tackle this era in the Star Wars history. Also, i think the art work is justified in its rought style. The setting is in the SW past, and the story is not overly detailed; these characteristics lead to a rough look that was very satisfying. It would not be perfect like the Star Wars present and future time periods. People are entitled to their opinions, but I think some missed the point when actually figuring out why elements of the comic where done in certain ways.
Product Description
Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the first Star Wars movie, this 60-figure expansion for the Star Wars CMG covers the grand and epic scope across the entire Star Wars saga - from the landmark films, to the computer games and novels! Introducing new characters including Biggs Darklighter, Ephant Mon, and Wicket, Alliance and Empire also features characters culled from the classic trilogy (A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi), complete with new square bases commemorating the pinnacle anniversary, plus new poses, new costumes and lightsabers, and new gameplay elements. Each booster contains seven pre-painted, random miniatures complete with stat cards and a set checklist.
Customer Reviews:
Great Expansion Set... FULLY COMPATABLE with Previous Minis Sets.......2007-05-29
"Alliance and Empire" is the seventh expansion set for the Star Wars Miniatures game, which started with the Rebel Storm Starter set back in September, 2004 (see more about the minis game itself in my addendum below). This set was released to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Star Wars. As such, these figures have a special square bases with "Star Wars" written on the front. HOWEVER, THIS SET IS STILL FULLY COMPATIBLE WITH THE OTHER STAR WARS MINIS SETS. There are 60 different figures in this set. Each booster comes with seven durable, pre-painted minis (including one rare OR one very rare figure).
The first thing I look for in any expansion set are how many characters I recognize from the movies (vs. those that appeared only in the books). I am particularly interested in figures from the original trilogy, and I am happy to say that there are at least 40 figures from the original trilogy in this set. Most are interesting and/or more powerful variations of earlier figures (for example, Boba Fett, Lando Calrissian, Jabba, Wampa, R2-D2 with C-3PO, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Princess Leia, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, Imperial Governor Tarkin, three different versions of Han Solo, and three different versions of Luke Skywalker). But, some of the figures have never been released before (for example, Wicket the Ewok, Ewok Hang Glider, and Jawa on Ronto). Notably, there are even a few great new common and uncommon figures from the original trilogy in this set (for example, Death Star Trooper, Death Star Gunner, Rebel Commando Strike Leader, Talz Spy, and a variation of the Ewok with a bow -- rather than just melee attack).
The rest of the figures are either from the prequel, the books, or generic/minor characters (however, some of these characters are also very good -- especially for use in the Star Wars RPG).
In sum, this expansion set is excellent for those interested in the original trilogy, and fair for those interested in the prequel.
ADDENDUM: (Please note that I include this addendum at the end of all my Star Wars minis reviews, so if you've read it before, there is no need to read it again.) If you want to play the Star Wars minis game as it was designed to be played, it is best to have at least one starter (each starter comes with game instructions, a map, a D20, terrain tiles that are very helpful and add great variety to the game, and more). I like the Rebel Storm Starter the best because it's from the classic era/trilogy, but the Clone Strike and Revenge of the Sith starters from the newer movies will also work. If you don't want to invest in a starter, you can also get one of the three "Ultimate Missions" books, as each comes with a double sided map and a few smaller terrain tiles (again, I like the Rebel Strom Ultimate Missions book the best because it is also from the classic era/trilogy). Or, you can buy the "Attack on Endor" scenario pack, which comes with TWO double sided maps (in addition to a scaled AT-ST that is fully usable in play). The main point here is that you'll need some type of map/grid. If you don't want to buy a Star Wars one, generic ones are also available at most gaming stores (you can use your imagination to set the scene, or draw terrain with an erasable marker right on the grid). Of course, the minis are also useful for the roleplaying game (RPG) - in which case you may not need a starter or map, but will likely need the "Core Rulebook" instead. Finally, they are just fun to collect for those who like all things Star Wars!
Average customer rating:
- The continuing moral quandries of Lt. Janek Sunbar
- Characters with depth, a well-conceived plot, and a surprise twist
|
The Wrong Side of the War (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 7)
Welles Hartley ,
Davide Fabbri ,
Christian Dalla Vecchia , and
David Michael Beck
Manufacturer: Dark Horse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Comics & Graphic Novels | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Magic | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
General | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
General | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Dark Horse | Publishers | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Characters | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Media Series | Series | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
-
In the Shadows of Their Fathers (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 6)
-
My Brother, My Enemy (Star Wars: Rebellion, Vol. 1)
-
Allies and Adversaries (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 5) (Star Wars: Empire)
-
Man with a Mission (Star Wars: Boba Fett)
-
The Heart of the Rebellion (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 4)
ASIN: 1593077092 |
Book Description
Fresh from the killing fields of Jabiim, where the Empire has virtually wiped out the populace of that world, Imperial Lieutenant Janek Sunber is sent to the quiet prison base on Kalist VI. But, unbeknownst to the Empire, the Rebels have designs on Kalist Base both for its desirable fuel supplies and for the presence of a very important prisoner - one of their own who has already attracted the interest of Darth Vader. Sunber doesn't know it, but he's on a collision course with an old friend who is with the Rebels, and he finds himself wondering which of them is on the wrong side of the war.
Customer Reviews:
The continuing moral quandries of Lt. Janek Sunbar.......2007-02-12
The seventh graphic novel collection of the Star Wars Empire comic series contains issues 35-40 and is titled The Wrong Side of the War. Like the sixth volume, this book starts off with a standalone issue. It tells the tale of Vader and a leading officer practicing a little deception on their own crew to root out a Rebel dissident within their ranks. Vader has the upper hand throughout and the ending has quite a wicked little twist. It's well-drawn and quite entertaining for such a short story.
The rest of the book focuses on one multi-issue arc. Conflicted Imperial officer Janek Sunbar is back and as confused as ever. He wants to honorably serve the Empire and have a fulfilling military career, but he is finding it harder and harder to turn a blind eye to the Empire's flaws. I thoroughly enjoyed Sunbar's earlier exploits trying to rally his troops against an invading force of Amamin on Maridun (the Amanaman design from Return of the Jedi is one of my very favorites in the saga, so I was predisposed to like that story anyway). The Wrong Side of the War adds a new twist to Sunbar's character, making him all the more interesting and tying him in with the more familiar movie characters.
The Rebels are sending a strike team to Kalist VI to infiltrate the Imperial facility and rescue Jorin Sol, who was captured in the prior arc set on Jabiim. As a side benefit, they also plan on stealing significant quantities of fuel from the Imps. The team, which includes Luke and R2-D2 along with an array of less familiar faces, is experiencing a smooth mission until the discovery of a large number of slaves complicates their planning. Ethically the Rebels can't leave the slaves behind, so their plans have a rapid adjustment and we sail into a terrifically exciting climax.
The additions to Sunbar's character are the most interesting part of this book. He is starting to see what he has refused to acknowledge for so long: the Empire he strives to serve is corrupt and unworthy of his devotion. Stories such as his add depth to the often faceless Imperial minions and present a more realistic view of what serving under Palpatine's tyrannical reign might really be like.
The Wrong Side of the War concludes the Empire series. However, a new series, Rebellion, has started up, and the first volume of that features Sunbar on the cover. It seems the story of Jorin Sol has more to come as well. This set of issues was a great read and I look forward to seeing where we go from here.
Characters with depth, a well-conceived plot, and a surprise twist.......2007-01-18
Dark Horse Comics had two long-running series in the 00's featuring stories set in different eras of the Star Wars universe, Republic and its poor sister Empire. Republic featured a fairly consistent cast of writer/artists, in particular the John Ostrander and Jan Duursema team, producers of a long-running series-within-a-series built around Jedi Quinlan Vos and Aayla Secura. These stories were being published while Lucas was still making his films, lending the Republic series an exciting immediacy that was simply unmatchable by Empire, where stories based on the Original Trilogy and featuring Luke, Leia and Han were going over fairly well-trodden ground.
Which is why "The Wrong Side of the War," a 5-part story ending Empire's four-year run, came as such a surprise.
Starring Lt. Janek Sunber, the Imperial Forest Gump, the story is from the same creative team that produced the only other Sunber story, "To the Last Man" (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 3), a trite tale laden with facile bromides about duty, honor, and sacrifice. "The Wrong Side of the War" starts out in much the same fashion, with about half of the first chapter being ponderous exposition, but quickly improves and before you know you're attention is engaged with clever plot twists and real character development.
Having had another taste of action at the Second Battle of Jabiim (recently concluded in Star Wars: Empire Volume 6), Sunber has been assigned to the energy production facility of Kalist IV, a quiet spot on the edge of the galaxy where the Lieutenant expects he can at least for a time get away from fighting and killing. But when he discovers the facility is operated with slave labor and that the officers are helping themselves to female slaves for after-hours entertainment, Sunber's cheery optimism and faith in the Empire is sorely tested.
Unbeknownst to the Imperials, a squad of rebels has infiltrated the facility to liberate energy reserves, a clandestine operation that threatens to become something more after the rebels themselves discover the slave labor force. Complicating matters is the rebel squad leader's secret mission to free from Kalist IV a prisoner in possession of sensitive Alliance data.
Along for the ride in Imperial disguise is Luke Skywalker, who's cover is about to be blown by an old friend from Tatooine, a childhood chum living the dream Luke once had of serving the Empire. The revelation of this friend's identity is a surprising twist, but it's not the only one scripter Hartley has up his sleeve. The fate of the political prisoner is another, with a turn that helps set up a story arc to play out in Rebellion, a new series from Dark Horse picking up where Empire ends.
But it's not just the surprise twists that make "The Wrong Side of the War" such a great story. It's also because of something quite unusual in genre fiction, the writer and editors letting the characters free to change and develop as human beings. Sunber was an annoying twit in "To the Last Man," but here we see him begin to wrestle with doubt, to question the Empire's propaganda and his will to serve. It's a development that has repercussions outside this story, allowing the reader to contextualize his behavior in "To the Last Man" and make that story just a little more palatable. And perhaps for readers who discover Sunber later in his career, a look back at "To the Last Man" will be something of a surprise. That is, if Hartley and Dark Horse allow Sunber to continue to develop.
The Italian art team of Davide Fabbri and Christian Dalla Vecchia (whose previous Star Wars credits include Jedi Council and The Star Hyperspace War) are joined by colorist Neziti Domenico to produce another fine volume of work. Their clean lines, simple but effective composition and understated color palette compliment the story, making this one chapter in Empire's run that every reader of the EU should enjoy.
Average customer rating:
- THIS is Vader???
- A nice break
- The secret plot to assinate Hilter...er, I mean Vader.
- Too short but well-written; this is a good story arc.
- Stunningly Mediocre!
|
Betrayal (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 1)
Scott Allie ,
Ryan Benjamin , and
Curtis Arnold
Manufacturer: Dark Horse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Popular Culture | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Comics & Graphic Novels | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
General | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
General | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Dark Horse | Publishers | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Characters | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
General | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Media Series | Series | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
-
Darklighter (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 2)
-
The Imperial Perspective (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 3)
-
The Heart of the Rebellion (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 4)
-
Allies and Adversaries (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 5) (Star Wars: Empire)
-
In the Shadows of Their Fathers (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 6)
ASIN: 1569719640 |
Book Description
In the weeks before the events in Star Wars: A New Hope, as the Death Star is readied for its fateful first mission, a power-hungry cabal of Grand Mofs and Imperial Officers embark on a dangerous plan to kill Emperor Palpatine and Darth Vader and seize control of the Empire! When word that a "Jedi" has made an appearance on a backwater world lures Vader away from his master, the cabal makes its move. But even the galaxy isn't enough of a prize to sate the ambitions of some of the conspirators, and before long the would-be assassins are turning on one another. Their plans are further complicated by the actions of bounty hunter Boba Fett. And, of course, they may have fatally underestimated the cunning of their primary target: Emperor Palpatine! This is the first in a new line of graphic novels set during the early days of the Rebellion, when the Empire controlled the galaxy!
Customer Reviews:
THIS is Vader???.......2007-07-27
There is, give or take a year or two, about two decades spanning the time between the end of "The Revenge of the Sith" and the start of "A New Hope." Apparently, very little occurred during that period. We already know the mighty Death Star, which was nearly complete at the end of "Sith," wasn't put into use for 20 years. Now, it appears that the Emperor waited just as long to start training Darth Vader in the ways of the Dark Side of the Force.
"Betrayal" is supposed to occur just a few weeks before "A New Hope" begins. And yet Vader is still insecure in his power, fearful of leaving the Emperor's side, hardly the figure to inspire fear throughout the galaxy. This story would have worked much better 15 or more years earlier in the Star Wars continuity.
The story itself revolves around a plot to assassinate the Emperor and Vader. The Emperor's devotion to the Sith religion, some underlings worry, will lead them all into defeat. The plot, obviously borrowed from a similar attempt by some German leaders during Hitler's reign, could have been good, but the book doesn't give itself time to involve the readers in anything more than the barest threads. We never get to know much about these rebellious leaders, who mostly squabble among themselves and assassinate each other rather than take action against their targets. Their plan, such as it is, is flimsy. It's execution, weak.
And Vader better pull himself together and inspire a little fear soon, or the Rebels are going to laugh him right off the Death Star.
by Tom Knapp, Rambles.(n e t) editor
A nice break.......2005-12-03
I found this graphic novel to be a change from standard Empire vs. Rebels. Instead it's Empire vs. Empire, which get's very interesting. Speaking of interesting, Trachta's (Grand Moff Trachta, the leader of the attempted coup) plot to overthrow the Sith was very. An unusaul thing for a Grand Moff to be doing, but anyway. The new characters were excellently done (Trachta, Kadir, Gauer). Very good art by Ryan Benjamin improved the rating to 4 stars. The only minus to Betrayal was the shortness. Could have been a lot longer (and a lot better). A good read.
The secret plot to assinate Hilter...er, I mean Vader........2005-05-20
This comic story takes place a few week before the beginning of Ep. IV A New Hope, when a few Imperial officers, including a couple Grand Moffs, plot to assinate both Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine in an attempt to save te Empire from their power hungery drive to control the galaxy. Remind you of anything? Sure does me. This reminds me of the plot to kill Hilter to save the Third Reich from destruction from within.
Anyway, like other reviews have said here, the story is a bit short and conceeded. Dialogue is a bit cheesey if not adolescent. In other words, you can't picture James Earl Jones saying some of Vader's dialogue in this book.
The art is above average I guess. Better than what was in Tales of the Jedi, but not as good as what's in the Clone Wars series. Probably on par with the Crimson Empire series.
Too short but well-written; this is a good story arc........2004-10-23
While the artistic depictions of some characters may be a bit dodgy, this first story arc of the Empire comic was well "storyboarded" and well-written.
Vader fighting cloned stormtroopers on Coruscant. What can I say? This was a good way to grab the reader's attention right at the start.
One weakness of Betrayal is that we don't get much story surrounding new characters such as Trachta and Gauer; also, things move rather quickly at one point, and the comic probably could have been better if the progress of the conspiracy had been fleshed out for two more issues. The design of Trachta is nice because it shows another example of Imperial use of cyborging via a breathing apparatus. I would like to see some of the new characters from this story arc in later material.
It should be mentioned here that the plot of some Imperial generals trying to assassinate Vader is ultimately derived from the incident with Hitler's generals, and it's already been used in the Marvel comic series. In fact, both versions ( Marvel and Dark Horse ) involve an airlock, but the scenes are played differently. The drama of the Marvel scene is all about the generals thinking Vader's been blown out into space, and then Vader's hand appears on the edge of the airlock and he hauls himself back into the ship. In Betrayal's version we get to see Vader "flying" around in the breached airlock with lightsaber on, slicing through huge chunks of metallic debris.
Stunningly Mediocre!.......2003-11-15
I have been singing the praises of dark horse for their run of excellently done Star wars based comics. That is why I was stunned at how poorly done this one was. The story is a mediocre telling rated at 2.5. Pencils are a 3, but coloring is just plain dull. There is not one page that makes you say WOW. I will certainly be more careful in my purchases of comics colored by Curtis Arnold and Dave Stewart in the future as they rate a 2.5 for this rush job. The best part of the comic is the pencil work of Ryan Benjamin, he gets a 4. Hopefully he gets teamed with a better group next time out.
Average customer rating:
- includes Empire's End
- Good read for a serious fan
- Excellent Chapter in the Star Wars Extpanded Universe
|
Star Wars: Dark Empire II 2nd Edition (Star Wars: Dark Empire)
Tom Veitch ,
Cam Kennedy , and
Jim Baikie
Manufacturer: Dark Horse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Popular Culture | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Comics & Graphic Novels | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Magic | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
General | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
General | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Dark Horse | Publishers | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Characters | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Media Series | Series | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
-
Dark Empire I (Star Wars)
-
Union (Star Wars)
-
Mara Jade: By the Emperor's Hand (Star Wars)
-
Commencement (Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, Vol. 1)
-
Exile (Star Wars: Legacy of the Force, Book 4)
ASIN: 159307526X |
Book Description
One of the most influential tales in the history of Star Wars, Dark Empire II gets a brand new edition that includes Empire's End in the same volume for the first time! With the Empire in retreat, Luke Skywalker undertakes a quest to rebuild the Jedi. Yet, he has spent time as the Emperor's thrall, and the taint of the Dark Side still lurks in his mind. When Palpatine unveils an insidious plan to conquer the galaxy using Han and Leia's own children, will Luke be able to stop his one-time master? Luke and Lando, Han and Leia, Threepio and Boba Fett - the gang's all here in one of the most important stories of their lives!
Customer Reviews:
includes Empire's End.......2007-03-30
Excellent edition, highly recommended.
This edition includes the Hard to find out of print "Empire's End"
Good read for a serious fan.......2006-12-27
Although the overall plot is fantastic, the artwork and dialog leaves something to be desired. If you're a fan it's almost a must have just to continue on with what's going on in the Star Wars Universe, just don't expect Jim Lee quality artwork or Frank Miller level writing. The story itself is pretty good, I just felt it lacked in some important areas and could have been much better with too many battles that are over in two or three panels.
Excellent Chapter in the Star Wars Extpanded Universe.......2006-10-02
This chapter of the Star Wars Universe takes place six years after the events on Endor (the events in the Return of the Jedi film). Luke has just recovered from being led by the Emperor and turning to the dark side himself.
This series of books (Dark Empire I, II, and Empire's End) has been widely received by many who follow the Expanded Universe. Events in future books are shaped greatly by what occurs in these books, namely restarting the Jedi Academy on Yavin.
Now, for the first time, Empire's End is included with this re-release of the comic by Dark Horse. This set of both books is a Must Have for any Star Wars fan.
Average customer rating:
- Galactic farmers rebellion.
- Loved the different perspective...
- So much more than one Rebel's story...
- Star Wars - A New Hope prequel.
|
Darklighter (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 2)
Paul Chadwick ,
Doug Wheatley , and
Tomas Giorello
Manufacturer: Dark Horse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Popular Culture | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Comics & Graphic Novels | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
General | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
General | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Dark Horse | Publishers | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Characters | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books | Classics | Comic | Contemporary | Literary
Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Media Series | Series | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
-
The Imperial Perspective (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 3)
-
Betrayal (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 1)
-
The Heart of the Rebellion (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 4)
-
Allies and Adversaries (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 5) (Star Wars: Empire)
-
In the Shadows of Their Fathers (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 6)
ASIN: 1569719756 |
Book Description
Before Luke Skywalker, the Rebel Alliance had another hero: Biggs Darklighter. For the first time, the full story of Luke's boyhood friend is revealed; from his departure from Tatooine to attend the Imperial Academy, to his decision to lead a mutiny against the Empire and join the Rebellion, to the fateful attack on the Death Star.
Customer Reviews:
Galactic farmers rebellion........2006-03-16
For most of the Star Wars universe fans, the most interesting things you can read about are the characters of the original trilogy. After Boba Fett, Darth Vader etc. now is Biggs, the friend of Luke who died at the Death Star.
In addition to that the art-work is really good, so if you like Star Wars universe you will enjoy it a lot.
Another good comic-book of an excelent series.
Loved the different perspective..........2006-02-07
I am an original Star Wars freak, grew up, then got hooked back into Star Wars (I'm 37). I have been gathering up comic/graphic novels wherever I can find them, and I must say, this is my favorite series (other than the Clone Wars series). I like the deeper dimension this book and the other Empire volumes bring to the Star Wars universe. The storyline is quite full, compared to the skimpy (almost silly) story lines from other comics (Marvel comes to mind). One can actually relate to the characters; I am a female so of course I like the emotional relationships between the characters and the character development. The artwork is very nice too, and one can almost imagine them being real (if that makes sense). This particular story tells how the rebellion gathers speed, appealing to people's sense of right and wrong and how they actually stand up and do something about it. Great story.
So much more than one Rebel's story..........2005-06-03
Biggs Darklighter isn't a very well known character. Rogue 3 in A New Hope, we know he was Luke's friend from Tatoonie that gave his life protecting Luke during the Battle of Yavin. This graphic novel, which collects Star Wars: Empire, issues #8-12 + #15, gives us Bigg's background, motives, and an in depth look at a fascinating man.
This graphic chronicles Biggs from the time he was a youth on Tatoonie, until the fateful Battle of Yavin, with many interesting notes in between.
Nor is this simply the tale of Biggs Darklighter. Luke Skywalker and "Hobbie" Klivian both have prominent roles.
There is also a small series called "The Short, Happy Life of Roons Sewell". Originally printed as Empire #10-11, it is composed of Roons Swell's eulogy, delivered by General Dodonna. Though this eulogy and a series of flashbacks, we see Roons Sewell's path to becoming a hero of the Alliance, a haunting, interesting tale.
Both these men had different lives, and took very different paths to becoming martyrs for the Alliance. Both men were brave and became icons of heroism.
The writing is flawless, the art is bold, and the story haunting. Highly recommended.
Star Wars - A New Hope prequel........2005-04-11
Or maybe it should be a prequel to Rogue Squadron. The story of what happened before and during A New Hope.
Average customer rating:
- Many sides of a complex character
|
The Heart of the Rebellion (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 4)
Judd Winnick ,
Ron Marz ,
Steve Hartly ,
Randy Stradley ,
Paul Chadwick ,
Davide Fabbri , and
Tomas Giorello
Manufacturer: Dark Horse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Popular Culture | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Comics & Graphic Novels | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Magic | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
General | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
General | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction | Graphic Novels | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Dark Horse | Publishers | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Characters | Comics & Graphic Novels | Subjects | Books
Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Star Wars | Media Series | Series | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
-
The Imperial Perspective (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 3)
-
Allies and Adversaries (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 5) (Star Wars: Empire)
-
Darklighter (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 2)
-
Betrayal (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 1)
-
In the Shadows of Their Fathers (Star Wars: Empire, Vol. 6)
ASIN: 1593073089 |
Book Description
She was the catalyst that helped to turn a rag-tag rebellion into the Rebel Alliance. She provided the impetus for the "Heroes of Yavin" in their attack on the Death Star. And she was the spark that ignited the flames of passion in one of the galaxy's most notorious rogues. "She," of course, is Princess Leia, the leader - and heart - of the Rebellion against Palpatine's galactic Empire. The four stories in this volume follow Leia from the weeks just before the events in A New Hope, to the time just before The Empire Strikes Back - from her first transforming experience with armed rebellion, to facing the ramifications of consequences of the destruction of her home planet, to the beginnings of true love.
Customer Reviews:
Many sides of a complex character.......2005-05-29
Collecting issues #5-6, 20-22, and the Valentines special of the Stars Wars: Empire series, this graphic novel focuses on one of the most complex and interesting characters in the Star Wars universe: Princess Leia.
"Princess... Warrior" shows Leia in the days just before Star Wars: A New Hope. Still a Senator, moving through the galaxy in her Blockade Runner, she's trying to bring aid to the fledgling Rebellion. Unfortunately for them and her, she's drawn too much attention. When faced with her first tastes of battle, Leia finds her values, character, and strength tested severely. This story also features Captain Antilles as a major character, a treat for die-hard fans.
" A Little Piece of Home" takes place shortly after Star Wars: A New Hope. Leia's former boyfriend and his brother managed to escape the destruction of Alderaan because they were vacationing on a moon they owned. That moon would make an ideal Rebel base. But as she rekindles her feelings for Raal they find themselves in impossible circumstances, struggling for their lives. But that struggle is just as hard as Leia wining the respect of Raal's older brother, Heeth. Heeth and Raal are some of Leia's last connections to her home planet, will she loose them, too?
" Alone Together" is 3 months after the Star Wars: A New Hope, and the fleet is adrift. Han, Chewie, Leia, and Deena Shan, a newcomer to the Rebellion. Deena is nursing a huge crush on Han Solo, but that's placed by the wayside when the four must answer a distress call on a distant planet. Easily my favorite story of the four, it's a funny, quick, entertaining lead.
" A Valentines Story" takes place just before Empire Strikes Back. Leia, Han and Chewbacca are piloting two spacecraft to the new base at Hoth. Han and Leia are in one craft, Chewbacca in another. Caught in a storm as they try to land, they all crash, but after Han and Leia attempt to rescue Chewbacca they struggle together to survive. They also bond together in their own way. A touching and sweet tale in many ways.
This graphic novel shows many aspects of Leia, and shows her growing up, as well as filling in some of the gaps between movies. Highly recommended for Star Wars fans or anyone interested in reading about a strong female lead character.
Books:
- Moonrise (Warriors: The New Prophecy, Book 2)
- Natural Remodeling for the Not-So-Green House: Bringing Your Home into Harmony with Nature (Natural Home & Garden)
- One Day, All Children: The Unlikely Triumph of Teach for America and What I Learned Along the Way
- Peace at Any Price: How the World Failed Kosovo (Crises in World Politics)
- Practical Sigil Magic: Creating Personal Symbols for Success (Llewellyn's Practical Magick Series)
- Princess Academy
- Raising a Modern-Day Knight: A Father's Role in Guiding His Son to Authentic Manhood
- Real Musgrave's Whimsical World of Pocket Dragons: A Collectors Handbook (Collector's Choice)
- Royal Assassin (The Farseer Trilogy, Book 2)
- Saint John's Bible: Prophets
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Linda McCartney's Sixties: Portrait of an Era
- Days of Infamy
- The Epiplectic Bicycle
- The Two Gentlemen of Verona
- A Book of Books
- Biology
- Between God and Gangsta Rap: Bearing Witness to Black Culture
- Unscientific Americans
- The Prophet of Dry Hill: Lessons From a Life in Nature
- Under The Shade Of The Trees: Thomas
Obsidian Alliances (Star Trek Mirror Universe, Bk. II)
The Good That Men Do (Star Trek: Enterprise)
Crucible: Kirk: The Star to Every Wandering (Star Trek)
The Buried Age (Star Trek: The Next Generation)
Resistance (Star Trek: The Next Generation)
