Exile (Star Wars: Legacy of the Force, Book 4)

Book Description

In the Stars Wars galaxy, evil is on the move as the Galactic Alliance and Jedi order battle forces seen and unseen, from rampant internal treachery to the nightmare of all-out war.

With each victory against the Corellian rebels, Jacen Solo becomes more admired, more powerful, and more certain of achieving galactic peace. But that peace may come with a price. Despite strained relationships caused by opposing sympathies in the war, Han and Leia Solo and Luke and Mara Skywalker remain united by one frightening suspicion: Someone insidious is manipulating this war, and if he or she isn’t stopped, all efforts at reconciliation may be for naught. And as sinister visions lead Luke to believe that the source of the evil is none other than Lumiya, Dark Lady of the Sith, the greatest peril revolves around Jacen himself. . . .

Customer Reviews:

breath of fresh air.......2007-08-23

I was begining to feel depressed about this series because of how dark the themes are, not that this book makes the story bright and happy but I was begining to find the series less fun to read. I picked this book up as a last chance for the series and read it cover to cover in a couple days. I loved it, it really brings the story back to the fun adventureous plot without losing the more sinister undertones that make it exciting.

Star wars: Legacy of the Force book 4.......2007-06-27

Gripping story, I'm a little uncomfortable with Jacen being turned to the dark side, but am hoping it turns out to be a tempory aberation.

Its not great .......2007-06-20

I really can sum up this novel in two words.....Love Commander.I really wish the Star Wars EU guys would STOP makeing up profanity like stang,rodder and kriffing it sounds so stupid use the real deal if you must use it or better yet language has many derogitory terms that arent vulgar use those you may actually educate someone.

Three Stars.......2007-06-13

There were only two real noteworthy things that happened in Exile, Ben being sent unknown to him on a Sith test and the Skywalker-Solo (minus Jacen of course) clan coming to realize that their family being split may be exactly what the enemy is wanting. I liked Ben's test being him alone on a Sith planet where he and only he can choice which path he'll follow and struggling to survive. The second part it was nice to see the Skywalkers-Solos come to the realization. I had hoped with this being the fourth book we would have more answers about the war, the reasons behind it, about Lumyia or something instead the rest was nothing more then Jacen still deciding who his Sacrifice would be and setting up for his plan at the end of the story at painstaking slowness that by the time the it got to the point I was asleep. I hope the next book will better. More answers, more things happening and less endless slowness.

The Dark Side Keeps Coming.......2007-05-22

Another Splendid addition to the Legacy of the Force series. Basically, the story continues with Jason getting deeper into the dark side. Young Ben however is starting to find out that it's not all that good to be bad.
More interesting stories all evolving around different caracters and the War, including one where Ben is tested to see if he really is dark side material. While entertaining, remember the book is still just a segue to the next book. But that is expected in such a long series.

Tempest (Star Wars: Legacy of the Force, Book 3)

Average customer rating:

Continuing down the dark path
CHANGING of the guards
Tempest is very well written.
OK but not for the casual SW fan.
Tempest Review

Tempest (Star Wars: Legacy of the Force, Book 3)
Troy Denning
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0345477529
Release Date: 2006-11-28

Book Description

Forty years after the Battle of Yavin a dangerous new era in the Star Wars epic begins–the revelations are shocking, the stakes desperate, and the enemy everywhere.

As civil war threatens the unity of the Galactic Alliance, Han and Leia Solo have enraged their families and the Jedi by joining the Corellian insurgents. But the Solos draw the line when they discover the rebels’ plot to make the Hapan Consortium an ally–which rests upon Hapan nobles murdering their pro-Alliance queen and her daughter.

Yet the Solos’ selfless determination to save the queen cannot dispel the inescapable consequences of their actions, that will pit mother against son and brother against sister in the battles ahead. For as Jacen Solo’s dark powers grow stronger under the Dark Jedi Lumiya, and his influence over Ben Skywalker becomes more insidious, Luke’s concern for his nephew forces him into a life-and-death struggle against his fiercest foe, and Han and Leia Solo find themselves at the mercy of their deadliest enemy . . . their son.

Customer Reviews:

Continuing down the dark path.......2007-09-25

This is the third installment in the Legacy of the Force series and, in my opinion, the best so far. The basic plot of Jacen Solo's decent into darkness may not be all that original, but it does make for some entertaining reading.

While an assortment of old friends and even older enemies make an appearance, Han and Leia are the emotional heart of this book. Having allied themselves with Corellia, a decision that strained family ties, the Solos find themselves being manipulated into a plot to assassinate the Queen Mother of Hapes and thus into direct confrontation with their son.

Denning has a knack for capturing the essence of the Solos and a real gift for penning Han's obligatory cocky comebacks. The book is full of the usual political intrigue and blasterfire. Yet at its core, it is an expoloration of conflicts between parents and their children.

Overall, this is a solid entry in the Star Wars library.

CHANGING of the guards.......2007-08-05

I do like the idea of the Star Wars galaxy advancing past the Luke/Han/Leia era. Titled Legacy of the Force, I can only hope that Lucasfilm is headed in that direction. Not that I don't love the characters. But, it IS 40 years after A New Hope. And Humans don't live forever. The younger characters are being well developed in this series. I have seen reviews that complain about the little focus on the "main" characters, when, my hope is that they do get retired or phased out. Darth Vader plays an enormous role in the Star Wars galaxy, as it's HIS Legacy, really, that is the driving 'force' behind the franchise. Denning does a great job of playing with politics in this book, and keeping to the theme of the "quite" approach Sith now have. When Han/Leia/Luke/Mara etc/etc have gone, either through, dismemberment or just plain death (boring), or go into hiding somewhere, they'll still be tremendously influential, just like the "old" characters from my "childhood". It's time for a new generation.

Tempest is very well written........2007-05-10

Tempest, the 3rd book in a 5 part series is very well written. The plot flows evenly. The biggest complaint I have is that Luke, at least in this series seems to be "Lost in Space". He appears weak and ineffective and as "Grand Master" of the Jedi he is a collossal failure, his & Mara's failure to contain Jacen and bring Ben Skywalker back is Mind boggling. Are you telling me that the power that Luke and Mara have between them can't overcome Jacen is unfathomable. It almost appears that Luke is being marginalized or on the verge of being written out of existence. After all, HE IS the main character in Star Wars along with Han and Leia. The story line is good but I'd like to read more of Luke and for God's sake lets bring Lumiya out into the open so that we can hate her properly.

OK but not for the casual SW fan........2007-05-07

This book was fine, the writing was good, but to it felt like the plot was treading water in the middle. If you aren't really into the SW universe, this book might not be for you. There are a number of characters that the causal SW fan might not have come across in the book. The writing is good enough that you can go on reading without knowing their history, but they do complicate the enjoyment of the book for someone not immersed in the SW scene.

Plus, just a personal peeve, but I couldn't figure out who the woman on the cover was supposed to be.

Tempest Review.......2007-04-12

One of the worst Star Wars books i have ever read, and i've read all the novels.
Bloodlines was just as bad. Betrayel was good, i really like Aaron Allston.
I'm getting very sick of Jacen, in particular. Enough said- ann

Inferno (Star Wars: Legacy of the Force, Book 6)

Average customer rating:

It is about time
Welcome Addition to Collection
Expanded Universe Fans Only
Inferno-Star Wars
Luke is Still the Grand Master

Inferno (Star Wars: Legacy of the Force, Book 6)
Troy Denning
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0345477553
Release Date: 2007-08-28

Book Description

Luke Skywalker wanted to unify the Jedi order and bring peace to the universe. Instead his wife Mara lies dead at the hands of an unknown assassin, his wayward nephew Jacen has seized control of the Galactic Alliance, and the galaxy has exploded in all-out civil war.

With Luke consumed by grief, Jacen Solo works quickly to consolidate his power and jumpstart his plan to take over the Jedi. Convinced he’s the only one who can save the galaxy, Jacen will do whatever it takes, even ambush his own parents.

With the Rebel confederacy driving deep into the Core to attack Coruscant and the Jedi under siege, Luke must reassert his position. Only he can lead the Jedi through this crisis, but it means solving the toughest problem Luke’s ever faced. Does he fight alongside his nephew Jacen, a tyrant who’s illegally taken over the GA, or does he join the rebels to smash the Galactic Alliance he helped create?

Customer Reviews:

It is about time.......2007-10-09

I would have to say that overall this is the best book in this series. Yeah it seemed a little weak in character development and some of the action scenes were just a little to much to be believable to me, it was nice to see Luke finally wake up and starting kicking some a** for a change. I was getting sick of seeing the whole galaxy just coo over Jacen and nobody seemed to even question him, much less stand up to him.

The fight between him and Luke was a bit over the top as well, and I actually thought Jacen was going to die for a minute there. But no, a few pages later he is up and walking around, despite being stabbed, slashed, busted, beaten and left for dead. It almost made me wonder why Anakin didn't just get up and walk it off when Obi-Wan left him for dead.

But this was the best one so far and it was the first one I read in one sitting. All the others before this just left me scratching my head waiting for something to happen.

Welcome Addition to Collection.......2007-10-08

I recently received "Inferno" to add to my Star Wars novels collection. I haven't had an opportunity to read it yet. My only disappointment came when I was forced to ask Amazon where the order was, as it had not arrived on the arrival date as promised. I then received 2 copies as everything got crossed in the e-mail/mail.

Expanded Universe Fans Only.......2007-10-02

As this is a book that takes place decades after the movies, only buy this if you have been following the series of books that expand the Star Wars Universe.

That said, I personally loved the book. If you follow the SW EU, you're going to buy this anyways, so...

Inferno-Star Wars.......2007-09-30

The Legacy of the force was a brilliant idea to bring the characters into the future way past the defeat of the empire.
I can't wait until the next book in the series comes out.

Luke is Still the Grand Master.......2007-09-30

As the EU has progressed we have seen Luke kind of get pushed into the background a little as he allows others of the Jedi Order to battle the evils of the Star Wars Universe but every once in a while we are reminded that Luke can still "Bring It" when he has to and this book is an excellent example of that. Luke is still the son of the "Chosen One" and his power is beyond belief but he seldom uses it in that matter but I don't think Jacen, or whatever he wants to call himself, will forget it after the way that Luke smacked him around with almost no effort in this book. If you're a fan of Luke this book is for you. At one point you will be shaking your head in horror saying no it can't be ... then you will be reminded that Luke is still the MAN.

Dark Force Rising (Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy, Vol. 2)

Average customer rating:

Not Free SF Reader
Author captures the epic spirit of Star Wars space opera
A Star Wars Fix
The middle of a saga is always the best!
The Force is with you!

Dark Force Rising (Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy, Vol. 2)
Timothy Zahn
Manufacturer: Spectra
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0553560719
Release Date: 1993-02-01

Book Description

The dying Empire's most cunning and ruthless warlord--Grand Admiral Thrawn--has taken command of the remnants of the Imperial fleet and launched a massive campaign aimed at the New Republic's destruction. With the aid of unimaginable weapons long hidden away by the Emperor on a backwater planet, Thrawn plans to turn the tide of battle, overwhelm the New Republic, and impose his iron rule throughout the galaxy. Meanwhile, Han and Lando Calrissian race against time to find proof of treason inside the highest Republican Council--only to discover instead a ghostly fleet of warships that could bring doom to their friends and victory to their enemies. Yet most dangerous of all is a new Dark Jedi, risen from the ashes of a shrouded past, consumed by bitterness... and scheming to corrupt Luke Skywalker to the Dark Side.

Customer Reviews:

Not Free SF Reader.......2007-09-03

Grand Admiral Thrawn attacks the New Republic on many fronts. He forces
our intrepid band of heroes to flee assassins, and Leia takes off with
Chewie, and Han goes looking for help by himself.

The dodgy Mara Jade is also floating around, as is a not so nice Jedi Master.

Whoever controls the 'Dark Force' of ancient ships in the end will have a massive advantage in the battle for the galaxy.

Author captures the epic spirit of Star Wars space opera.......2007-05-22

As far as post-Return of the Jedi novels about Luke, Han and Leia go, Timothy Zahn's breakthrough Thrawn Trilogy is the best.

As for the best novels from the era of the movie saga, I highly recommend the following 5-star novels:

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)
Shadows of the Empire (Star Wars)

A Star Wars Fix.......2007-01-19

Do you hate George Lucas for ruining his own creation like I do? I mean, Star Wars, the defining mythology of at least two generations, the story of heroes and redemption has become the joke of our times. How could it not? Did you see that idiot, Anakin, scratching his way up the hill, beaten and burned, destined to become the shell for James Earl Jones's ominous basso voice? Did it make you groan? Did it make you want to set fire to the Skywalker Ranch? Am I alone?

Now, I'm not a Star Wars Geek. I don't play the roleplaying game. Never have. I don't have the library of tie-in novels and I do poorly at the trivia compared to a lot of people. But I snuck into the theater when I was 11 years old to watch Luke Skywalker discover The Force. I know great stories and despite the slightly cheesy effects and the ham-handed acting, Star Wars was a great story.

Why am I going on and on about what was? Because Timothy Zahn does Star Wars better than George Lucas does Star Wars. If Lucas had just filmed these three books - Heir to the Empire, Dark Force Rising, and The Last Command - he'd have a masterpiece to crown his early achievements.

In Dark Force Rising, Leia conducts a mission to influence an alien race heretofore loyal to one of the Emperor's warlords, Luke finds himself battling an insane Jedi Master, Joruus C'Baoth, and Han Solo races the forces of the warlord, General Thrawn, to get to a lost fleet of Dreadnaught cruisers. The tension is high throughout this second book in the series and the characters conduct themselves admirably, keeping to the heroic expectations and rebellious attitudes we expect.

Reading this series, and especially this book, will remind you why we loved Star Wars and why we now hate George Lucas.

- CV Rick

The middle of a saga is always the best!.......2006-07-13

Just like Empire Strikes Back, Dark Force Rising is the pinnacle of what the middle portion of a saga is all about. There is tons of action and the book is so well written that you won't want to put it down.
Highly recommend this one and I can't wait to finish the triology with The Last Command.
Zahn is the man!

The Force is with you!.......2006-07-13

"Dark Force Rising" Volume 2 of the Thrawn Trilogy. Grand Admiral Thrawn continues his attempt to finish off the struggling New Republic. Talon Karrde, the smuggler who took Jabba's place is slowly being pulled over to the New Republic's side even though his right hand Mara Jade (The Emperors' Hand before he died) wants nothing to do with the new republic and who's only goal has been to kill Luke Skywalker. The two opposing sides race for a lost fleet of about 200 ships. The winner will have the upper hand in the continuing battle. Meanwhile the newly surfaced Jedi master plots to capture Leia, her twins and Luke.

The Good: The whole book (along with the other 2 were all very good). It's good to read the old favorites including Han, Leia, Luke, Chewy and Lando. The plot stays strong throughout and this kept the book enjoyable.

The Bad: Nothing memorable

Overall: The book and series are both very good and I recommend them highly

Inside Delta Force: The Story of America's Elite Counterterrorist Unit

Average customer rating:

wisdom in defeat and humility in victory
How Delta Came to Be
Excellent book.
Best 1st Person Spec.Ops. Account I have Read to Date
Excellent book.

Inside Delta Force: The Story of America's Elite Counterterrorist Unit
Eric Haney
Manufacturer: Dell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0440237335
Release Date: 2003-07-29

Book Description

Now the inspiration for the CBS Television drama, "The Unit."

Delta Force. They are the U.S. Army's most elite top-secret strike force. They dominate the modern battlefield, but you won't hear about their heroics on CNN. No headlines can reveal their top-secret missions, and no book has ever taken readers inside—until now. Here, a founding member of Delta Force takes us behind the veil of secrecy and into the action-to reveal the never-before-told story of 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-D (Delta Force).

Inside Delta Forece
The Story of America's Elite Counterterrorist Unit

He is a master of espionage, trained to take on hijackers, terrorists, hostage takers, and enemy armies. He can deploy by parachute or arrive by commercial aircraft. Survive alone in hostile cities. Speak foreign languages fluently. Strike at enemy targets with stunning swiftness and extraordinary teamwork. He is the ultimate modern warrior: the Delta Force Operator.

In this dramatic behind-the-scenes chronicle, Eric Haney, one of the founding members of Delta Force, takes us inside this legendary counterterrorist unit. Here, for the first time, are details of the grueling selection process—designed to break the strongest of men—that singles out the best of the best: the Delta Force Operator.

With heart-stopping immediacy, Haney tells what it's really like to enter a hostage-held airplane. And from his days in Beirut, Haney tells an unforgettable tale of bodyguards and bombs, of a day-to-day life of madness and beauty, and of how he and a teammate are called on to kill two gunmen targeting U.S. Marines at the Beirut airport. As part of the team sent to rescue American hostages in Tehran, Haney offers a first-person description of that failed mission that is a chilling, compelling account of a bold maneuver undone by chance—and a few fatal mistakes.

From fighting guerrilla warfare in Honduras to rescuing missionaries in Sudan and leading the way onto the island of Grenada, Eric Haney captures the daring and discipline that distinguish the men of Delta Force. Inside Delta Force brings honor to these singular men while it puts us in the middle of action that is sudden, frightening, and nonstop around the world.

From the Hardcover edition.

Customer Reviews:

wisdom in defeat and humility in victory.......2007-07-12

David Mamet, in my edition of this book, now more than three years old, long before 'The Unit' came along, writes at the beginning:

"The great military novels have about them an ineffable air of sadness. [They] seem, both in scenes of combat and in the scenes of rest, depictions of a life heightened to the plateau of regret, longing, and loss. The great military memoirs, similarly, are a record of loss and its transmutation into compassion. [...] in Eric Haney's Inside Delta Force, we are welcomed into the curious, moving and persuasive philosophy of the soldier trying to find wisdom in defeat and humility in victory."

It's a comment that reflects the spirit of the contents, and which ultimately translates into the very cool TV series based on the book. I also admit, quite without shame that the characters of 'Phantom Strike Team' in my novel 'Fontaine' were definitely inspired by this account, which I found fascinating and quite un-put-downable; much like Michael Durant's 'In The Company of Heroes'.

I have no idea how 'real' and 'true' the things depicted here are, because I have no real evidence to back up whatever I believe. However, I would like to think--possibly wishfully, but why not?--that Orwell's 'rough men [who] stand ready in the night to visit violence on those who would do us harm' aren't just a bunch of thugs, who just like to shoot people, but that they are like those guys; that they are grounded and have a sense of purpose, and that Mamet's comments are on the mark.

Again, without evidence for the 'truth', whatever that may be, I cannot tell; but I choose to think that Haney has done more than just show them in the best light; that even in the harsh light of day, it all basically holds true.

How Delta Came to Be.......2007-07-09

I read a few other reviews of this book before buying it and find they were accurate. Haney tells about how Delta force came to be in interesting detail. The people that submit themselves to the Selection process really can only truly truly want the job. If you watch or have seen any episodes of "The Unit" you can see where story plot lines came from, but don't expect any detailed past mission stories.

Excellent book........2007-06-08

As usual, the same excellent quality and service that I have come to expect from Amazon. Book was great and recommend it to anyone thats interested in this type of stuff. Great compliment to "The Unit".

Best 1st Person Spec.Ops. Account I have Read to Date.......2007-05-19

I initially was drawn to this book after seeing it credited as the inspiration for CBS's drama "The Unit". (I'm a sucker for marketing, huh?) This book was to be the first in a long line of military non-fiction works that I read recently and for me it's still one of the best. Haney isn't the GREATEST writer in the world but his style works well for the subject matter at hand and thankfully lacks some of the irritating macho-ness that plagues many other ex-military authors. What made the book great for me was the fact that because Haney was a recruit in Delta as opposed to one of the organizers, there is a sense of mystery and the unknown as he chronicles his progress through Selection and his early days in the unit. I also read Charlie Beckwith's book on Delta and thought this was the better read. The only thing I didn't like about the book was that Haney retired so many years ago that you are left wanting to know more about current ops, but that's not a criticism of the book itself, simply a lament on my part. Overall I'd highly recommend this to anyone interested in learning more about what drives these incredible individuals.

Excellent book. .......2007-05-18

Great read. I spent 28 years in the Army, many of them at Bragg and retired in 2003. Mr Mercer's comments about what he believes are fact and fiction as it pertains to the contents of this book are inaccurate and I would recommend he go back and do his research correctly this time.

Delta Force: The Army's Elite Counterterrorist Unit

Average customer rating:

Good book on the unit, but Haney's is better...
Not quite as good as Haney's book, but still good
Delta Force: the Army's Elite Counterterrorist Unit
High Level Overview
Delta Force: The Army's Elite Counterterrorist Unit

Delta Force: The Army's Elite Counterterrorist Unit
Charlie A. Beckwith , and Donald Knox
Manufacturer: Avon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0380809397

Book Description

The only insider's account ever written on America's most powerful weapon in the war against terrorism

Customer Reviews:

Good book on the unit, but Haney's is better..........2007-06-27

I really enjoyed this book. It gives a great history of the formation of Delta Force, but if you are only going to read one book on the subject; INSIDE DELTA FORCE by Eric Haney is much better. That said, this book is a page-turner and well written. There's a bit of self-congratulation; but Beckwith was an impressive individual.

Not quite as good as Haney's book, but still good.......2007-05-19

If I had not read Eric Haney's book "Inside Delta Force" before I read this one, I probably would have loved it. The inherent problem is that both books cover roughly the same time frame, with Beckwith's book beginning earlier (going back to Vietnam inspirations) and ending while Haney was still in Delta. Both books provide detailed coverage of Operation Eagle Claw, which can be a little redundant, but that's no one's fault really. What I liked about Beckwith's book was the understanding it gave about where the idea for Delta came from, what his operational credibility was, and the intense opposition he faced in birthing this elite unit. Some folks will be bored with the various political machinations at work, but I found it interesting to see how something like this comes to be. Less interesting to me was Beckwith's account of Selection and the like because he didn't have to go through it like Haney did. I'd definitely recommend this book, but if you only want to read ONE book on Delta, I'd recommend Haney's first. And while there is certainly some overlap in information between the two works, I read them back to back and still enjoyed them.

Delta Force: the Army's Elite Counterterrorist Unit.......2007-05-12

The book was in excellant condition, arrived on time.

High Level Overview.......2007-03-10

A great story about the birth of Delta Force from the founder himself. Beckwith takes you from the original idea, based on his experience with the British Special Air Service (SAS), through their first mission (to free the hostages in Iran).

Because of his rank and the role he played in this story, you get a high level overview instead of the view from an operator on the ground (as in Eric Haney's book - Inside Delta Force). One item that was particularly interesting to me was the test (based on the SAS) they ran prior to their first real mission to determine if their operators would actually engage the terrorist. Although it was successful, they later decided to not use this test again and surmised that the British needed to determine if their operators would fire their weapons but the US needed to create rules on when to not fire their weapons. Not sure what that says about the two cultures, but it was interesting none the less.

Beckwith is definitely a strong personality who does not compromise. You learn much about the man and the government bureaucracy he fought for so many years. In the end, he was successful and we are a safer nation because of his efforts

Delta Force: The Army's Elite Counterterrorist Unit.......2007-03-08

I read this book years ago and just had to read it again.

Average customer rating:

Complete Story from Beginning to End
History Repeats Itself
Great Memoir
This guy has the Warrior Soul
Exciting, sad and frustrating

Warrior Soul: The Memoir of a Navy Seal
Chuck Pfarrer
Manufacturer: Presidio Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0891418636
Release Date: 2004-12-28

Book Description

“Since the first navy frogmen crawled onto the beaches of Normandy, no SEAL has ever surrendered,” writes Chuck Pfarrer. “No SEAL has ever been captured, and not one teammate or body has ever been left in the field. This legacy of valor is unmatched in modern warfare.”

Warrior Soul is a book about the warrior spirit, and it takes the reader all over the world. Former Navy SEAL Chuck Pfarrer recounts some of his most dangerous assignments: On a clandestine reconnaissance mission on the Mosquito Coast, his recon team plays a deadly game of cat and mouse with a Nicaraguan patrol boat. Cut off on the streets of Beirut, the author’s SEAL detachment must battle snipers on the Green Line. In the mid-Atlantic, Pfarrer’s unit attempts to retrieve—or destroy—the booster section of a Trident ballistic missile before it can be recovered by a Russian spy trawler. On a runway in Sicily, his assault element surrounds an Egyptian airliner carrying the Achille Lauro hijackers.

These are only a few of the riveting stories of combat patrol, reconnaissance missions, counter-terrorist operations, tragedies, and victories in Warrior Soul that illustrate the SEAL maxim “The person who will not be defeated cannot be defeated.”

From the Hardcover edition.

Customer Reviews:

Complete Story from Beginning to End.......2007-09-09

This is probably the most complete book I have ever read on the SEALS, out of many (the only exception is Lone Survivor below---it was as good or better in some ways----read them both). I find a LOT more facination with a book that is non-fiction, because these are events we can all relate to-----and this book is autobiographical in a true sense---as is Lone Survivor.
The tales in this book reflect major international events that have affected the U.S. in the reasonably recent past. The author was/is cleary a very hard man with his life----and the lives of others----on the line as is described in this book in enough detail to make it hard to put down.

History Repeats Itself.......2007-08-31

I was able to read this book in one sitting. I really enjoyed Mr. Pfarrer's writing style and humor...yes humor was acheived in this special operations memoir.
What was most compelling to me was his description of Lebanon in 1983. It gives a vivid picture of what we're embroiled in right now in Iraq.
Thank you Mr. Pfarrer for the history lesson and I hope you're doing well after your bout with colon cancer.

Great Memoir.......2007-05-18

The title is the key to really "getting" this book. It is a memoir and not intended to be an action thriller about SEAL missions. That said, there are some tense moments that really make you feel the stress of being there. Pfarrer is an excellent writer so the book flows well. He is also quite honest throughout and that makes his toughness easier to take. I felt like I was getting to know the real guy, not just the tough guy he was some of the time.

This guy has the Warrior Soul.......2006-12-07

The Warrior Soul is a great read on many levels. Although I believe he was somewhat reserved from describing the "real" missions of his time in the military, I still found Chuck Pfarrer's writing to be open and honest. He details a few of his most important missions and brings the reader along as if they were on his SEAL team. He interjects bits about his personal life and creates a smooth storyline that will keep you interested until the end.

I am fascinated by the rigors of being a SEAL, so it's safe to say that I'm a sucker for this book. If you are hard-core military, then you'll be left hungry for the deeper layers (actually, the juicy details) that he assuredly experienced in his missions. But even without them, you'll enjoy learning about his life's path as a Navy SEAL.

Have fun,

David Tobias
Redondo Beach, CA

Exciting, sad and frustrating.......2006-06-11

This book takes you where no one will go and where few have been; the past of a SEAL and the men whom he knew. It does so in a way that is exciting and at the same time sad and frustrating. Here I saw how politicians keep this elite members from doing their job the way they learned; with accurate effectivennes. It also shows the personal sacrifice these men go so we can sleep well. Wanna be Special Forces, Delta, SEAL's and politicians must read this.

Creating Customer Evangelists: How Loyal Customers Become a Volunteer Sales Force

Average customer rating:

Customer Evangelists provide the Best Marketing Bang for Your Buck!
Explains a few things
Non nova sed nove
Evangalize YOUR customers
A true word-of-mouth marketing bible

Creating Customer Evangelists: How Loyal Customers Become a Volunteer Sales Force
Ben McConnell , and Jackie Huba
Manufacturer: Kaplan Business
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1419597213
Release Date: 2007-01-02

Book Description

For the first time in paperback, a revised edition of the book that launched the term “customer evangelism.” Updated with new statistics and figures, this landmark book has shown countless companies how to harness the power of evangelism marketing and increase customer loyalty, sales, and profitability.

When customers are truly thrilled about their experience with a product or service, they become outspoken “evangelists” for a company. Savvy marketing professionals know that this group of satisfied believers can be leveraged as a potent marketing tool to increase their customer universe.

Authors Ben McConnell and Jackie Huba know how to take a company’s best customers and turn them into influential, loyal, and enthusiastic evangelists. Creating Customer Evangelists shows how to develop evangelism marketing strategies and programs that will create communities of influencers who can expand and drive sales for a company.

By deepening customer relationships, successful companies create customer communities that generate grassroots support and value for their products and services. Creating Customer Evangelists can convert good customers into exceptional ones who willingly spread the word.

Updated material for this edition includes

* New research about the effectiveness of word of mouth

* Updated case studies

* How blogs, podcasts and other social media affect the six tenets of evangelism

* Preface about the growth of customer evangelism, fueling a ""word of mouth marketing"" industry

Customer Reviews:

Customer Evangelists provide the Best Marketing Bang for Your Buck!.......2007-05-20

BUY THIS BOOK TODAY. Read it. Put it in action, be consistent, and reap the rewards of innovative customer loyalty efforts. The book teaches many powerful concepts, such as:

- Focusing on solving customer needs
- Putting the customer's success at the heart of your business relationships
- Making them feel special, create "clubs" and "communities" for your customers to participate
- Creating "causes" for them to be emotionally attached to, deliver unequalled service and show genuine interest in what they do and how you can help them to do it better.
- Being loyal to customers, and they will be loyal to you. Remember, customers are loyal to people, NOT products.
- Creating genuine buzz about your company (and how to do it).
- Sharing knowledge openly with prospects and customers, instead of hoarding it.

A multitude of examples are given, showing step-by-step how to duplicate the concept in real-world practice.

This book is worth every penny for those willing to take the risk of breaking away from traditional, interruption marketing and enable their customers to become their evangelists.

Once we get them to that point, the best thing to do is to keep out of their way and let them do their work -- then watch your business grow. I have already seen the impact in our firm.

Best of success to you!

Explains a few things.......2007-05-14

This book is great for any business owner. It also puts into perspective the new kinds of very effective marketing that we get targeted with day to day (like being asked to provide this review). Its an easy read too.

Non nova sed nove.......2007-05-09

A great book in line with Guy Kawasaki's Selling the Dream. It's not just a me-too book.
If you want your customer to become your best sales people, don't pass this book by. Invest in it and into Ben Mc Connell's Citizen Marketers: when the people are the message, as well as in Andy Sernovitz's Word of mouth marketing.
If you're making an e-commerce website, you would simply be a fool not to study the subjects covered by this book. It can also actually be applied to any modern form of communicaton including blogs. The only (small) critic which may be presented is that the author's approach is top-down when good word of mouth is, most of the times, user-generated (see MySpace and YouTube)
The author however did a really good job. Worth not only your money but devoting some of our precious life time to learn from it.

Evangalize YOUR customers.......2007-02-22

A very handy book covering the topic of evangalizing customers. Should be read by all marketing people:

A true word-of-mouth marketing bible.......2007-01-21

This is my second book on viral marketing and I am falling short of words for Ben and Jackie's writing style. My first book on the topic was Mark Hughes's Buzzmarketing but I recommend reading this book as well for its unique way of describing how to make your customers your outspoken "evangelists", influencers who can drive sales of your company.

AS mentioned by other reviewers, authors have discussed casestudies from Southwest Airlines, Krispy Kreme, Build-A-Bear Workshops, the Dallas Mavericks basketball team, Pallotta TeamWorks, O'Reilly & Associates, SolutionPeople and IBM. Some may argue that Krispy Kreme's share is trading at $12 and the company has not been doing good. Please note, the downfall is because of their management problems and not because of their hot marketing style. They built an experience around a product and got customer involved and connected.

I highly recommend this book to all start-up business owners.

Force Heretic II: Refugee (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 16)

Average customer rating:

book 16
Three-sided storyline that I found rather enjoyable
2.5/5, An improvement, but not enough...
Ugh.
The Truce is Broken

Force Heretic II: Refugee (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 16)
Sean Williams , and Shane Dix
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0345428714
Release Date: 2003-04-29

Book Description

Swift and deadly, the Yuuzhan Vong have blasted their way across the galaxy—and now stand on the threshold of total victory. Yet a courageous few still dare to oppose them. . . .

Rife with hostile cultures and outright enemies, the Unknown Regions holds many perils for Luke Skywalker and the Jedi, searching for Zonama Sekot, the living planet that may hold the key to dealing once and for all with the Yuuzhan Vong.

Meanwhile, on the edge of the galaxy and in the heart of a trusted ally, old enemies are stirring. The Yuuzhan Vong have inflamed long-forgotten vendettas that are even now building up to crisis point. And as Han and Leia journey on their quest to knit the unraveling galaxy back together, betrayal and deception await them. . . .

Customer Reviews:

book 16.......2006-10-22

this book couldve been half as long had all the nonsense been cut out.theres a lot of politics and ceremonies and the like.i think the author was going for drama,but it came out more like over-detailed and uneventful.there are just certain things people have come to expect from anything star wars.like a light saber battle,a super weopon,the sith,ise of the main characteres in meaningful and interesting events.this book lacks all these qualities.you will,however,have to trudge through it if you are reading the series.now i will give you the low down.the good guys,for some reason,are looking for a living planet instead of fighting the vong.anakan solo is still dead.which still makes me mad.landos super cool droids arent around and niether is the coolest sith since darth vadar in lord nyax.heck,even han solo ,luke skywalker and thier families dont see much action.luke spends the book in a library.oh thats so cool.[ugh].all the real cool stuff happens in like the last 70 pages.there is a assassination attempt on someone important.so the other jedis,not in danger,gave to twart the attempt.i feel so sorry for poor old tahiri.shes not only hopeless about the future but severely depressed and now gas an alternate persona.my heart really goes out to her.nom-anor is hiding beneath coruscant trying to get the shamed ones to revolt.the good guys do find a planet full of droids powered by souls.a terrorist assassanation attempt gets an ok air battle towards the end.jacen solo spends most of his time in the library also.ho-hum.but danni expresses her true feelings for him.lastly,theres the living planet.it is said to ne inhabited by insects.theres dense oxygen.every 3 years a fire god burns up its surface.a prophetess from there is said to have created the force.the planet can jump through hyperspace also.thats all they find out in over 400 pages.they never did find the planet either.

Three-sided storyline that I found rather enjoyable.......2005-12-27

I read the other reviews and I wonder if I read the same book that they did. I genuinely enjoyed the complexity of the book. Perhaps for the Star Wars fan who enjoys duels and battles, this book isn't for you. However, I enjoyed the political complexities present in the book on all three sides of the storyline.

In one, Luke continues on his mission to find Zonama Sekot and hope that it can make the difference in turning the war around. Contrary to one review, the conflict at the end is a huge benefit in their effort to get access to Chiss space, but I will not spoil how. Also, I believe that there is a very good reason that we don't have the map, that is because the Chiss are very secretive and even though Luke, Jacen and the others are looking at records, I am doubtful the Chiss are actually letting them look at star charts showing exact locations. Remember, many were VERY skeptical of their arrival and mission. Not providing us the map makes it more realistic for us in following the story.

The second side is the continuing mission led by Leia and Han to bring the distant regions of the galazy back into the fold. They are taken to Bakaura on the edge of the far reaches of the galaxy, bordering on Ssi-Ruuk space and the Unknown Regions. The political turnabouts in this theater are complex and telling. I agree with one reviewer that the whole ruse was completely predictable, but the subtle mechanisms are intreging as is the climax to the incident.

The third theater is on the planet formally known as Courscant, now the headquarters of the Yuuzhan Vong in the galaxy. Nom Anor is trying to lead a cult based on the Jeedi to being about his revenge on the leadership of the Vong. This is the least interesting of the three, but has some long term potential. Anor is trying to take advantage of the fact that the Shamed Ones have been put down for so long and that they have a desire for something more. This is, of course, a theme seen throughout the world at different stages of history. However, this isn't as well developed as the other two theaters of the book, but hopefully will be in book three.

If you are only into battles and lightsabre fights, this book isn't for you. However, if you are into a more in depth look at various facets of the ongoing galactic war along with the political intrige implicit in it, enjoy!

2.5/5, An improvement, but not enough..........2004-08-09

To say the first "Force Heretic" novel was a monumental dissapointment that made me want to rip my eyes out, would be a minor understatement. Which made it all the more surprising to find that I actually enjoyed this second book in the Williams-Dix composition for the New Jedi Order series.

In all honesty, it appears as though one of the writers (I can't tell which) wrote the first book, and the other one wrote this one, so different did I find the styles. Gone were the plaguing problems of incoherent sentences and paragraphs, stuttering storylines and lack of involvement in the characters. As well, I found most of the intrigue laced in this book to actually work. Previously, I staunchly believed mystery and Star Wars don't mix - they didn't in Episode II, on film, they definitely won't on paper - but at least in the case of Bakura, with so much back-stabbing and betrayal going on at once (even the Yuuzhan Vong get in on it) I was genuinely pulled into the book. The whole plot on Csilla seemed like an afterthought however, and the conflict that occured there seemed a little too mainpulative and coincidental. It would've been much easier for Jacen, Luke and Co. to learn Zenoma Sekot's location without an overly done powergrab. Just my opinion. The plot with Nom Anor as Yu'shaa, the Prophet, also worked well, and helped advance the Yuuzhan Vong side of things with surprising clarity.

Of course, the book still wasn't that great.

The lack of chapters will bug me forever, I'm sorry, it probably sounds petty, but it just doesn't work for me. Call it a stylistic choice if you want, I hate it. The characters were absolutely stupid on occassion (even if I feel Dix and Williams did an ok job of molding them this time), a good case of which is with Jaina. She has ample opportunity several times to free herself from Harris (the Vice-President) and his cronie's grasp, yet waits until possibly the worst time to do so, after two backup character's unneccessarily die. I mean, she only has to fight two guys, and at one point one of them is knocked out of the equation and Jaina isn't even bound by cuffs (as she is when she eventually does break free) and yet she still doesn't act, instead choosing to allow another person to die. Horrible plot-manipulation, flat out. Time and time again, I saw character's make hideously foolish choices that no Star Wars hero or heroine would truly make, just to make the plot advance. It came off as downright lazy to me. That being said, I still enjoyed the plot - go figure.

All in all, this novel was a definite improvement on the previous Williams-Dix endeavor, but still failed in far too many aspects to be worthy of joining the likes of Traitor, Star by Star, or any of Aaron Allston's or Michael Stackpole's novels. 2.5/5 stars.

Ugh........2004-07-15

Whose idea was it to let this slop stretch into a trilogy? All of the important points could have been condensed into a single novel (or maybe even a short story). The New Jedi Order does bring an exciting new plot arc to the Star Wars universe, and there have been some great books in the series, but once we get toward te end, the true marketing genius becomes clear; a reader who has already read a dozen novels and gotten caught up in the story of the war with the Vong, will work their way through even the worst book to make it to the end of the series. Or indeed, the worst three books. Only a couple of interesting bits (like the Tahiri subplot) save this from a 1 star review.

The Truce is Broken.......2003-12-31

The second novel of the Force Heretic trilogy encompasses three story lines. The first story line follows Luke and Mara Jade Skywalker, Jacen Solo, and other Jedi as they enter Chiss space in search of the planet Zonama Sekot, in hopes that the planet will hold the key to winning the war against the Yuuzhan Vong. While an interesting tale, it is really a secondary story to one of the other story lines. However, this book does move the story along for Luke and Co.

The second story line is also a sub-story. Nom Anor is the fallen Executor of the invading Yuuzhan Vong race. He has been banished as a Shamed One. Not satisfied to sit back and accept his fate, Nom Anor has begun a heresy of sorts by establishing a cult amongst the Shamed Ones that reveres the Jedi, and looks upon them to free the Samed Ones of the shackles of oppression.

The main story follows Leia and Han Solo, their daughter Jaina and Jag Fel as they return to Bakura. Bakura was the subject of the novel 'Truce at Bakura,' which takes place immediately after 'Return of the Jedi.' In that novel, an alien race called the Ssi-ruuk were threatening to 'entech' an entire planet. Entechment is a process of stealing the souls of a sentient being and using it to control a machine.

Bakura appears ready to sever its ties with the New Republic and form an alliance with a race once subjugated by the Ssi-ruuk. There is more than meets the eye though. The Prime Minister is missing, but then suddenly reappears. The Deputy Prime Minister suspects something is up. Malzana Thanas, the daughter of a political hero of Bakura, is being tried for treason. Intrigue abounds.

Overall, this novel was pretty clever. The story on Bakura had many layers, but about two thirds of the way through, the pieces fall into place rather obviously for most readers. It was interesting, and a bit refreshing, that most of the action took place away from the war against the Vong. However, there is a bit of a surprise near the end of the book that will cause most readers to scratch their head a bit.

Tahiri has an interesting role in this triology. She is dealing with an inner demon, and after this novel, she may never be the same again. This sub-plot has alternated between being interesting and annoying. Hopefully, it will reach an interesting conclusion in the third installment.

I'd recommend this novel to anyone that has been reading the New Jedi Order. I would not recommend starting with this novel. Go back to the beginning and read 'Vector Prime' and other novels in the series first.

Average customer rating:

the lowest rating ive given one yet book 15

A new front for the war against the Yuuzhan Vong

sort of dull, but still entertaining

Eh...it was all right

Pretty bad... 1.5/5 stars.

Force Heretic I: Remnant (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 15)
Sean Williams , and Shane Dix
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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Force Heretic II: Refugee (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 16)

Force Heretic III: Reunion (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 17)

The Final Prophecy (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 18)

Destiny's Way (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 14)

Traitor (Star Wars: The New Jedi Order, Book 13)

ASIN: 0345428706
Release Date: 2003-02-04

Book Description

As the bloodied and weary galaxy faces battle once more, the Jedi take on the formidable task of bringing the last of the Empire into the light. . . .

From the ashes of the New Republic—torn to shreds by the savage Yuuzhan Vong forces—the newly formed Galactic Alliance has risen, determined to bring peace to the entire galaxy. But first the Yuuzhan Vong must be contained once and for all. And so Luke Skywalker seeks a world long lost to legend: Zonama Sekot, a sentient planet believed to have repelled an invasion by the Yuuzhan Vong decades ago. Deciphering the enigmatic secrets of Zonama Sekot just might turn the tides of a relentless war.

Aboard the Jade Shadow, Luke, his wife Mara, Jacen Solo, and other Jedi head off into the Unknown Regions, where rumors and clues suggest Zonama Sekot might be found. Yet the mission has barely begun when the searchers stumble into a horrific battle. The Imperial Remnant, in retreat from the mighty Yuuzhan Vong, is about to be destroyed. It would seem those aboard the Jade Shadow have little choice but to leave the Empire to its fate. But these are no ordinary space travelers, they are Jedi. . . .

Customer Reviews:

the lowest rating ive given one yet book 15.......2006-10-13

ok,first of all,im still po/d that the most dangerous sith ever was introduced 3 books ago and still hasnt been used by book 15.so i guess either the new writers have no respect for the previous books in the series or for some reason they chose not to use a god-like sith .this goes back to my points from before.everybody loved anakan solo and chewbacca.both get offed.and both of the solo twins went down the dark side earlier but the dark side was gone by the next book.not worked out just simply dismisssed.thats why i gave this book a lower rating than the previous 14 books in the series.the republic and empire are working together in this one.but theres a ton of poliyical bs they have to bore the reader with 1st to get to that point.jacin solo and a much older danni start a romance.the vong are out being vongs and blowing up planets and sacrificing prisoners.tahiri is still very much depressed over anakan solo even to the point of having schizophrennic-like episodes.nom anor is realizing some mind blowing truths about the vongs spiriyual beliefs the hard way.a lot of interesting stuff happens with him in this book.there is a search going out for a living planet.a new characheter is introduced.hes chewbaccas son,lumpawarrump.not that that makes them killing chewbacca in book 1 ok.an air battle pitting the republic and empire vs the vong goes down along with 3 battles for planets.the vongs lowest caste "the shamed ones" began questioning the truths about the vong gods,threatening to destroy thier most fundamental beliefs.so the vong began slaughtering them.thats about it.of course.I LEFT YOU MANY SUPRISES.anyhow,this book is really hust a jumbled mess.its somewhat interesting but not all that exiting.its a 400 plus page story that couldve been told in 250.and its slow to read,as was book 14.i hope this isnt a trend developing.with only 4 books left,somebody better start picking up the slack or i will be very disappointed.

A new front for the war against the Yuuzhan Vong.......2005-11-29

I really enjoyed this book. Sure, there is some review in the beginning of the book, but not as much as some reviewers would have you think. There is plenty of new material as the main protoganists go off in two different directions on two very different missions, but both designed to ensure the survival of the newly formed Galactic Alliance.

Leia is leading one expedition to reconnect severed links to the Galactic Alliance. They will find surprises on the way. The suspense is evident in several instances through the first stage of this mission and a familar enemy along with a stange alien will make their presence felt.

On the other side of the (not the MLS champion L.A.) Galaxy, Luke is leading another expedition to the Unknown Regions with a stop at the Imperial Remnant. Surprise, surprise, they too will meet with a familar enemy. Political intrigue and a very Latin Americanesque approach by the Grand Admiral typify the reaction of the Empire to the unwanted visitors.

Along the way, we see the continued struggles of Tahiri as well as the development of the young Jedi. There is some repetition of information worked into the story in the form of informing new protoganists of what is happening. However, if you haven't read previous books, you will really miss out on much of the storyline.

sort of dull, but still entertaining.......2005-09-03

this is the first adult star wars book i have read. it took halfway through the book just to get to the first lightsaber duel, which wasn't really a duel at all! had good cover art, though.
there were good things about this book and bad things. entertaining, but if you want a better read, i recommend destiny's way.

Eh...it was all right.......2004-12-17

What was going on in this book? Some character development and then none at all. Complete luck that Luke's party stumbled onto the Battle of Bastion. This whole book was very up and down. First 60 pages it took me three months. Then I started to ease my way through it. It was a rough read. Definitely could have been better. And it's way to long for so much nothing. It was very average and my lord what do the Ryn have to do with anything? Plus these two authors need to quit it with calling Han and Leia "Anakin's Parents" nonstop. Plus this whole thing with Tahiri is quite annoying. And don't Han and Leia and the military Twin Suns Squadron have more important things to do than go to small insignificant planets and stop them from falling to the Vong? Shouldn't they be fighting the true war? What is going on? The next two better explain what's going on...

Pretty bad... 1.5/5 stars........2004-07-24

Of all the New Jedi Order books I've read, I must say this is by far the worst.

Where to begin? Well, the plot itself isn't really that bad - Luke and company go to find Zenoma Sekot, while Leia, Han and the others go to round up support for the Galactic Alliance - as I said, not bad. Even this has problems though. Based on the occurences in the novel, the Yuuzhan Vong are obviously expending a fair amount of resources to defeat possible attackers on their borders - and what is the Alliance doing while this is going on? Nothing. No offense, but after scoring a huge victory in Destiny's Way, the Alliance appears to be back to the New Republic's way of sitting there and doing nothing until they are attacked. The logistics just didn't make sense to me, and it wouldn't have been that difficult to include a new section devoted to say Wedge or Cal Omas or even Admiral Ackbar.

As the plot is really the work of LucasArts though, and not of the writers themselves, any failings in the overall story department can be forgiven. What really made the book dissapointing for me was the writing style of the authors.

In my opinion writing teams rarely work, as authors simply have different views, goals, opinions and thoughts - combining the work of two authors into a single book (or set of books) is a bad idea, in my mind. This is just the start of the problems however.

Firstly, there were no chapters in the book. I can't understand the purpose of this besides forcing the reader to see the "Part" that they are currently reading as a single collection of actions and thoughts - which they really weren't. The lack of spacing between the four sections (not to mention a long prologue and longer epilogue) was offsetting to me, and I missed the deliberate pacing of chapters that all the other New Jedi Order books have. Heck, most books have them. As I said, unless it was some failed attempt at novel artistry, there was no point to it, and just aggravated me.

Secondly, the book went far too much in spurts and stops. Almost useless portions of the plot would be given huge amounts of space, while the conclusions to battles and character depth were rushed, barely mentioned, or forgotten altogether. While I did enjoy the burgeoning love relationships between Jag and Jaina and Jacen and Danni (though I still believe Jacen and Tenel Ka should be together), nothing else really seemed all that well done to me, almost as though the writers were looking to find a niche in the story where their talents could shine.

Thirdly, I found it nearly impossible to follow the flow of the writers words. A paragraph of character thought, for example, would follow normally through a pattern of logic, then suddenly, the character would arrive at a totally different conclusion than I would have ever thought of, or what I thought Williams and Dix were leading me towards. It felt as though the two writers were either confused in the writing of the book, or still attempting to discover their characters and those characters' place in the novel. A prime example (on a larger scale) is with Saba, who, from the prologue, I thought was going to be a main character throughout, but eventually only showed up in any importance at the very end, once again, like the writers just weren't sure what they wanted to do with the characters. For such an important area of the arc plot (ie. finding Zenoma Sekot and possibly dooming the Yuuzhan Vong), it was dissapointing to see the writers meander their way through.

Lastly, the imprecise battle tactics. I had absolutely NO understanding of what was going on during the space battles. None whatsoever. It was really quite sad that the only description of the battles was "The Empire was winning," or "they were on their heels" (those aren't real quotes obviously). It really hurt the book on the whole, as it was practically a nail in the coffin.

I have several other points which also bothered me, but there is a word limit to this review and there's no real point in going on, as anyone reading this will get my point. I didn't enjoy the book at all. I'm almost certainly going to skip over the next two novels as well and pick up with The Final Prophecy, in the hopes of some restoration of the series before Dix and Williams completely destroy it. No offense intended.

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