Specter of the Past: Star Wars Legends (The Hand of Thrawn): Book I

by Timothy Zahn

Hugo Award-winning author Timothy Zahn makes his triumphant return to the Star Wars(r) universe in this first of an epic new two-volume series in which the New Republic must face its most dangerous enemy yet--a dead Imperial warlord.

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.

Audible Audio

Published February 21, 2007

About the author

Timothy Zahn attended Michigan State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in physics in 1973. He then moved to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and achieved an M.S. degree in physics in 1975. While he was pursuing a doctorate in physics, his adviser became ill and died. Zahn never completed the doctorate. In 1975 he had begun writing science fiction as a hobby, and he became a professional writer. He and his wife Anna live in Bandon, Oregon. They have a son, Corwin Zahn.

Reviews

[Infosifter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Timothy Zahn writes the best Star Wars novels! He keeps this universe from seeming cartoonish where all villains are pure evil and all good characters are unrealistically flawless. I first read this soon after it came out, but I recently ran across an audiobook version, and really enjoyed the reread. This was an audiobook recorded with some classic Star Wars sound effects alongside and unabridged reading. It's a real performance with different voices for all the characters, and the sounds of R2-D2 and Chewbacca roaring add a dimension of fun.