Specter of the Past by Timothy Zahn and Ralf Schmitz

The Empire stands at the brink of total collapse. But they have saved their most heinous plan for last. First a plot is hatched that could destroy the New Republic in a bloodbath of genocide and civil war. Then comes the shocking news that Grand Admiral Thrawn--the most cunning and ruthless warlord in history--has apparently returned from the dead to lead the Empire to a long-prophesied victory. Facing incredible odds, Han and Leia begin a desperate race against time to prevent the New Republic from unraveling in the face of two inexplicable threats--one from within and one from without. Meanwhile, Luke teams up with Mara Jade, using the Force to track down a mysterious pirate ship with a crew of clones. Yet, perhaps most dangerous of all, are those who lurk in the shadows, orchestrating a dark plan that will turn the New Republic and the Empire into their playthings.

I really enjoyed the original Thrawn novels. This one was really weak. I didn't even finish it, which is rare for me.

What I enjoy most about Timothy Zahn Star Wars books are the well-executed plots. They are the perfect mix of nostalgia, intrigue, and action. If you are wanting something a bit deeper or that covers a wide, fleshed-out world, this is not the plot you are looking for.

// The New Republic is in shambles and is hanging on by a thread after a revelation from the past. Luke, Leia, Han, and the rest of the crew must try and thwart the threat of an uprising while simultaneously facing off against a few old foes. //

So, apparently, I was supposed to read the Jedi Academy Trilogy, Dark Empire, the first four X-Wings, and I, Jedi before reading this, so call me confused. If someone gave me a power converter for every time I Googled something to fill in a blank in the story, I'd be able to sell them to Tosche Station for an excellent sum.

// “The one truism in all politics is that loud voices will be raised against any decision that is made.” //

The story was great from the get go. Even though the series name might have given me an insight into what the plot could be, I didn't know “that” was going to happen. The “that” reveal was so incredibly ingenious and filled my mind with possibilities of where the story might go. But, and it hurts me to say, is also its downfall. I feel like “that” reveal was kinda squandered. I know this is a two-part series, and I will gladly eat crow if it turns out to be great by the end, but I had a bad feeling about this as the third act came into view.

───∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗─── We're doomed!

Usually with Star Wars novels, the plot can get convoluted because of the sheer scale of the universe. I would say I am a moderate SW fan, but for the life of me, I was confused on more than one occasion. There are some slow parts, specifically between some members of the Empire, dealings with Lando, and the weird interactions between Mara and Luke (get a room, will ya!