Agents of Chaos I: Hero's Trial

The baton has been passed once again in "The New Jedi Order" series, and with outstanding success. What is often true with sequels of movies doesn't necessarilly hold weight in books - and this is quite apparent in James Luceno's "Hero's Trial". It's fun and full of action - and has that certain something that could easily transform into a Star Wars movie if ever so desired. It feels like Star Wars if any of you know what I'm trying to get at.

Following the destruction of the Ithor by the Vong and the following repelling of those Vong forces is where we find ourselves in "Hero's Trial". The invasion is in full force now, and the forces of the New Republic are unable to stop and catch a breath during their defensive retreat. These are dark times which began with the death of Chewbacca, who is finally laid to rest when this episode begins. Han Solo, who had refused any help throughout the entire time of his grieving, finally decides that it's time to escape his pain by seeking the adventure he once had so often in his past. What type of adventure? Han has one thing on his mind, and it's seeking vengence for the death of his best friend. The vehicle that drives his desire of revenge comes in the form of his mentor, whom he meets up with, who informs Han that an old friend of theirs is working as a mercenary for the enemy in a group that calls itself the "Peace Brigade". As Han ventures further in his quest for revenge he stumbles upon something of greater concern to the New Republic and himself - a plot to eliminate the Jedi.

As I said earlier, I feel that this book is a highly successful one. Whereas the last duology by Mike Stackpole was good all around as a story that takes place in the realm of Star Wars, this book could truly stand on its own. While reading this book, I could resist thinking about the highly successful Han Solo Trilogy and Han Solo Adventures (which by the way were written by Luceno's friend, the Brian Daley). This book harkened back to those fantastic works in that it had a little bit of everything in it (as far as the underworld goes anyway). One of the elements that I could really appreciate was in a scene that involved Sabaac cards and the reading of them in order to give a fortune; which is similar to the source of modern day playing cards which actually have their origins with Tarot cards. In any case, I won't bother you with all that mumbo jumbo. This book reads quickly, its filled with excitement from start to finish, and it doesn't lack that Star Wars feeling in the slightest bit.

In short, this book is rich in character and I would highly recommend that anyone read it, even if you haven't read "Vector Prime" or the "Dark Tide" series. It's fantastic book that fits in well with "The New Jedi Order" series or on its own. Read "Hero's Trial" as soon as possible, you won't be disappointed.... I promise.

Sean's Rating