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Star Wars Disney Canon Novel
Sanctuary: A Bad Batch Novel
Hunter, Wrecker, Tech, and Omega gamble on a mission to help rebuild Pabu in this thrilling adventure for The Bad Batch.
A good soldier knows that life is all about change—whether it’s on or off the battlefield. Surviving, living, means adaptation. Hunter is well acquainted with this lesson. He’s on the run from the Empire, Echo’s off on a mission with Captain Rex, and Crosshair is . . . still Crosshair, but amidst all the change, Hunter still has Tech, Wrecker, and Omega.
And it seems that his small family might have finally found a safe place to land, far from the increasingly vigilant eyes of the Empire: Pabu. But their potential new island home is in desperate need of resources if there is any hope for the fledgling community to recover from a devastating sea wave. That’s where Phee Goena, self-proclaimed liberator of treasures, comes in, with a couple of jobs she swears will get them the funds they need. Despite Hunter’s concern with Phee’s precarious plans, the rest of the crew is fine following her lead.
Things go wrong almost immediately, as Phee’s droid blows the crew’s cover at a high-stakes auction, and they barely make it out with the relic they’d been paid to acquire. Hunter insists they finish their first mission and deliver the relic before taking on more work, but Phee and the others push forward with a second job: ferrying a couple on the run, one of whom is due to give birth at any moment. Hunter worries that they’re risking too much, especially when their mysterious new passengers cling to lies and secrets that trace back to an Imperial Security Bureau officer hot on their trail.
As Hunter tries to get the crew back on a stable, safe path far, far away from anything to do with the Empire’s watchdogs, their overlapping missions only invite more danger and chaos. On the verge of failing both their desperate passengers and their community on Pabu, the Batch must remember that the only way they succeed, the only way they survive to fight another day, is by trusting each other.
A good soldier knows that life is all about change—whether it’s on or off the battlefield. Surviving, living, means adaptation. Hunter is well acquainted with this lesson. He’s on the run from the Empire, Echo’s off on a mission with Captain Rex, and Crosshair is . . . still Crosshair, but amidst all the change, Hunter still has Tech, Wrecker, and Omega.
And it seems that his small family might have finally found a safe place to land, far from the increasingly vigilant eyes of the Empire: Pabu. But their potential new island home is in desperate need of resources if there is any hope for the fledgling community to recover from a devastating sea wave. That’s where Phee Goena, self-proclaimed liberator of treasures, comes in, with a couple of jobs she swears will get them the funds they need. Despite Hunter’s concern with Phee’s precarious plans, the rest of the crew is fine following her lead.
Things go wrong almost immediately, as Phee’s droid blows the crew’s cover at a high-stakes auction, and they barely make it out with the relic they’d been paid to acquire. Hunter insists they finish their first mission and deliver the relic before taking on more work, but Phee and the others push forward with a second job: ferrying a couple on the run, one of whom is due to give birth at any moment. Hunter worries that they’re risking too much, especially when their mysterious new passengers cling to lies and secrets that trace back to an Imperial Security Bureau officer hot on their trail.
As Hunter tries to get the crew back on a stable, safe path far, far away from anything to do with the Empire’s watchdogs, their overlapping missions only invite more danger and chaos. On the verge of failing both their desperate passengers and their community on Pabu, the Batch must remember that the only way they succeed, the only way they survive to fight another day, is by trusting each other.
12 pages, Audiobook
First published August 5, 2025
About the author
Lamar Giles
30 books631 followersLamar "L. R." Giles writes books for teens and adults. FAKE ID, his debut Young Adult Thriller, will be published by HarperCollins in 2014. He is represented by Jamie Weiss Chilton of the Andrea Brown Literary Agency and resides in Chesapeake, VA with his wife.
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February 11, 2025LETS GOOO BAD BATCH NATION
October 16, 2025
There was literally no way I was going to come out of this book without (1) crying and (2) giving it five whole galaxy-far-far-away stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This is my very specific hyper fixation, ty
The entire expanded Universe of Star Wars, including the Bad Batch novel, has always sat in a weird middle between Being Cannon™️ and being perfectly ignorable. You could, after all, watch any of Bad Batch Season three without this book and be perfectly fine; but the same couldn't be true for this book. Of course it's written for fans, of course they're going to have (near) memorized each plot for point across seasons before turning up for a book a year after the final episode aired on Disney Plus.... The book almost requires this of you.
It reads like a long lost episode of Season 3 (lovingly).
Giles' assessment of the characters is a little different from mine, something I can remedy via overconsumption of Fan Fiction and the Tumblr rabbit hole. For one, I don't think by Season 3, the Batch would be struggling with the soldier-dilemma of contradicting the Empire (which is literally their whole flavor of struggle season 1). Second, the internal monologue can sometimes throw off the pacing of the scene-- we're used to our on-screen characters doing their thinking in their head and only saying aloud what's necessary... that illusion is surely broken for the better.
That being said, Giles really has a favorite Batcher. And if you love Tech, or want to cry twice as hard about it™️, this is the book for you. The Bad Batch novel is a MASTERCLASE is voice, with each chapter written so distinct, you really feel like you're in their head! The writing is so seamless and iconic, with the only less convincing slips being where I *personally* disagree with how that character is depicted (honestly, it's really just Hunter whoI think matured past naive soldier that easily gets side swiped, and should be more of a brooding mother hen...).
More importantly, this is a story about a high stakes mission bringing resources back to the oasis of Pabu, which was hurt pretty hard after the tsunami. We get to experience this found family through their own eyes and touch the world of the Bad Batch with a little more depth than before. I would love to see more come out of this IP, especially if Giles gets to continue on with his amazing addition to the Star Wars universe. This book illustrates the power of community and brings to life some of the more beautiful parts of our fandom.
Anyways-- for what you're actually checking reviews for, pre-reading break down (February 2025):
Confirmed this occurs directly after the events of Season 2, Episode 13: "Pabu." meaning:
- No Echo, he's off with Rex doing important rebel things
- Crosshair, but in the sad prison way
- Yes Tech, plus x Phee on page content
- Reflection, Angst, Trauma... The Bad Batch Good Stuff™️
- Some connection to Andor and a bit more about the young Empire
Giles has written for Star Wars before, but his usual genre is YA Thriller and Contemporary-Mysteries. Highly recommend check those out as well :)
The entire expanded Universe of Star Wars, including the Bad Batch novel, has always sat in a weird middle between Being Cannon™️ and being perfectly ignorable. You could, after all, watch any of Bad Batch Season three without this book and be perfectly fine; but the same couldn't be true for this book. Of course it's written for fans, of course they're going to have (near) memorized each plot for point across seasons before turning up for a book a year after the final episode aired on Disney Plus.... The book almost requires this of you.
It reads like a long lost episode of Season 3 (lovingly).
Giles' assessment of the characters is a little different from mine, something I can remedy via overconsumption of Fan Fiction and the Tumblr rabbit hole. For one, I don't think by Season 3, the Batch would be struggling with the soldier-dilemma of contradicting the Empire (which is literally their whole flavor of struggle season 1). Second, the internal monologue can sometimes throw off the pacing of the scene-- we're used to our on-screen characters doing their thinking in their head and only saying aloud what's necessary... that illusion is surely broken for the better.
That being said, Giles really has a favorite Batcher. And if you love Tech, or want to cry twice as hard about it™️, this is the book for you. The Bad Batch novel is a MASTERCLASE is voice, with each chapter written so distinct, you really feel like you're in their head! The writing is so seamless and iconic, with the only less convincing slips being where I *personally* disagree with how that character is depicted (honestly, it's really just Hunter who
More importantly, this is a story about a high stakes mission bringing resources back to the oasis of Pabu, which was hurt pretty hard after the tsunami. We get to experience this found family through their own eyes and touch the world of the Bad Batch with a little more depth than before. I would love to see more come out of this IP, especially if Giles gets to continue on with his amazing addition to the Star Wars universe. This book illustrates the power of community and brings to life some of the more beautiful parts of our fandom.
Anyways-- for what you're actually checking reviews for, pre-reading break down (February 2025):
Confirmed this occurs directly after the events of Season 2, Episode 13: "Pabu." meaning:
- No Echo, he's off with Rex doing important rebel things
- Crosshair, but in the sad prison way
- Yes Tech, plus x Phee on page content
- Reflection, Angst, Trauma... The Bad Batch Good Stuff™️
- Some connection to Andor and a bit more about the young Empire
Giles has written for Star Wars before, but his usual genre is YA Thriller and Contemporary-Mysteries. Highly recommend check those out as well :)
August 18, 2025
This is an excellent novel by Lamar Giles. It hits very element of the writing that it needs to: the pacing, the plot, the characters, the themes, and the action are all handled excellently...it just isn't necessarily a top tier SW book (which it doesn't need to be).
The book is only 297 pages and reads very quickly. Lamar was able to understand the pacing of the Bad Batch tv show without the book feeling too episodic and with too many break points. It feels both like a full novel and a series of episodes from the tv show.
The action in the book is written very well, and is very evenly spaced out in the book.
I thought that Lamar Giles undestood the characters in the book very well, and they all felt naturally like their tv show versions.
The 2 villains in the book are great. Crane is very well developed and really works excellently as the books' main villain. I really enjoyed reading about Cellia as well, although I think getting to understand her character better would have benefited the book a bit.
There are 2 mysteries in the book. One surrounding Sohi and one surrounding Ponder. The Ponder reveal was excellently done, and fits PERFECTLY with a Bad Batch story. The Sohi reveal was fine, although I thought it was a bit too randomly revealed.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. Its not in the top tier of Star Wars books, yet it competently gets every element right and was a breeze of a read. 8.5 out of 10!
The book is only 297 pages and reads very quickly. Lamar was able to understand the pacing of the Bad Batch tv show without the book feeling too episodic and with too many break points. It feels both like a full novel and a series of episodes from the tv show.
The action in the book is written very well, and is very evenly spaced out in the book.
I thought that Lamar Giles undestood the characters in the book very well, and they all felt naturally like their tv show versions.
The 2 villains in the book are great. Crane is very well developed and really works excellently as the books' main villain. I really enjoyed reading about Cellia as well, although I think getting to understand her character better would have benefited the book a bit.
There are 2 mysteries in the book. One surrounding Sohi and one surrounding Ponder. The Ponder reveal was excellently done, and fits PERFECTLY with a Bad Batch story. The Sohi reveal was fine, although I thought it was a bit too randomly revealed.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. Its not in the top tier of Star Wars books, yet it competently gets every element right and was a breeze of a read. 8.5 out of 10!
January 3, 2026
WE ARE SO BACK 😆
December 29, 2025
I really loved getting more time with the Batch and for that reason I knew I’d be grateful to read this. I listened via audiobook and was never fully invested, and started/finished other books before finishing up with this one. The story itself and the side characters didn’t do much for me, and without the Bad Batch being included I’m not sure it would have been worth it as a read for me! It just fell a little flat for me overall, but I am desperate for more time with the Bad Batch, so I still enjoyed it, and would recommend if you are too!
August 5, 2025
It’s getting a 3 because I love the Bad Batch but deserves a 2 for how it played out.
I think the author doesn’t like Hunter.
There is SO MUCH conflict that it doesn’t make sense and does not correspond with the show. At all.
Hunter’s opinions are literally common sense, which is something Phee is lacking.
It’s like the author took simple concepts from the show and decided to make them a “big deal” and turned it into controversy.
Yes, Hunter was considering settling on Pabu, but given they are being hunted they can’t exactly do that just yet. So why is this being turned into a fight between Phee and Hunter where the others are taking Phee’s side? And why the fuck are the others throwing Crosshair leaving in Hunter’s face? This isn’t something that happens in the show. Crosshair leaving is an emotion moment yes but the boys all grasp that their brother is going through something that they can’t help him with TILL he asks for help. It’s no one’s fault, so WHY are they subtly blaming Hunter?
Also….what is the point of Cellia Moten? She was the catalyst for the first job ok fine. But WHY did she stay? Oh just so Palpatine’s cloning plan can be mentioned. In which case WHY did it need to be mentioned? It’s a side topic in season 3 so WHY does it need to be mentioned here?
This story could of been better if the extra chapters involving Crane’s word games with Cellia were taken out, the whole Palpatine side plot removed, and more focus put on “should we settle on Pabu”. Heck even them stating, word for word, “should we settle on Pabu” instead of everyone being pissy at Hunter when these jobs to help Pabu go tits up and when he tries to explain his thought process gets nailed with “think of Pabu”.
I really, REALLY, wanted to like this book. It has some good points and banter from the boys that’s spot on. But GOD the arguments and tension were unnecessary and made the characters OOC.
I think the author doesn’t like Hunter.
There is SO MUCH conflict that it doesn’t make sense and does not correspond with the show. At all.
Hunter’s opinions are literally common sense, which is something Phee is lacking.
It’s like the author took simple concepts from the show and decided to make them a “big deal” and turned it into controversy.
Yes, Hunter was considering settling on Pabu, but given they are being hunted they can’t exactly do that just yet. So why is this being turned into a fight between Phee and Hunter where the others are taking Phee’s side? And why the fuck are the others throwing Crosshair leaving in Hunter’s face? This isn’t something that happens in the show. Crosshair leaving is an emotion moment yes but the boys all grasp that their brother is going through something that they can’t help him with TILL he asks for help. It’s no one’s fault, so WHY are they subtly blaming Hunter?
Also….what is the point of Cellia Moten? She was the catalyst for the first job ok fine. But WHY did she stay? Oh just so Palpatine’s cloning plan can be mentioned. In which case WHY did it need to be mentioned? It’s a side topic in season 3 so WHY does it need to be mentioned here?
This story could of been better if the extra chapters involving Crane’s word games with Cellia were taken out, the whole Palpatine side plot removed, and more focus put on “should we settle on Pabu”. Heck even them stating, word for word, “should we settle on Pabu” instead of everyone being pissy at Hunter when these jobs to help Pabu go tits up and when he tries to explain his thought process gets nailed with “think of Pabu”.
I really, REALLY, wanted to like this book. It has some good points and banter from the boys that’s spot on. But GOD the arguments and tension were unnecessary and made the characters OOC.
August 6, 2025
Perfection. One of my favorite Star Wars books I’ve read and the most fun I’ve had reading a book in a while. I’m very impressed with Giles to pick up the bad batch characters from their TV show and seamlessly turn it into a book that just… feels like them. But he did it- and he did it well. Each character not only feels like themselves, but they’re better. I loved getting more of an in depth look into each characters heads and loved the character development of Hunter, Tech, Omega, Wrecker, and Phee in this novel. Even Crosshair and Echo, although not physically there, still reside in this novel. You can still feel their presence. I had so much pure, unadulterated fun reading this. I love these characters so much and Giles truly did them so much justice.
February 3, 2026
One word. Mischaracterisation.
Jesus Christ you couldn't have written Tech worse if you tried. Everything about his thought process seemed so out of character, because what do you mean he's thinking of the possibility of having kids with Phee when he's known her for the maximum of a couple weeks?
Which brings me to my other problem - the way Phee is written in this book makes it seem like they've all known her for months or even years. The way they act with her doesn't sync up with the way they act with her in the show at the same point in time, like we never see Tech call her "darling" and (intentionally) flirt with her all the time in the show. The way their relationship is portrayed in this book is too in depth, considering how in the show they seem like acquaintances rather than intensely lovey-dovey. It doesn't surprise me that much, since most male writers make this mistake when it comes to relationships.
But, on a high note, the plot to this book is actually fairly decent. Despite the fact I don't believe in any way that a clone would be in a relationship with a separatist spy, let alone one that literally got his squad killed. I wish we got some more background information about how their relationship started, to answer the question of why Ponder got with her.
Something that broke my heart was how the team downplayed Hunter's feelings time and time again, especially when he tries to accommodate his squad to his best abilities all the time. He's clearly being haunted by Crosshair's decision and just wants his family to settle down somewhere safe, even if it is for a little while, but no one seems to care. And throwing Crosshair's leaving in Hunter's face was so out of line and just odd, why are we subtly blaming Hunter specifically for the decision an independent grown man made? Tech of all people should know better than that.
To me, the quality of this book sometimes felt like underdeveloped fanfiction rather than canon lore. After the show was butchered in season 3, in my opinion, I didn't have high expectations for this book when it was announced. At this point, I'm just so tired of this show and its characters being let down time and time again by poor writing.
Jesus Christ you couldn't have written Tech worse if you tried. Everything about his thought process seemed so out of character, because what do you mean he's thinking of the possibility of having kids with Phee when he's known her for the maximum of a couple weeks?
Which brings me to my other problem - the way Phee is written in this book makes it seem like they've all known her for months or even years. The way they act with her doesn't sync up with the way they act with her in the show at the same point in time, like we never see Tech call her "darling" and (intentionally) flirt with her all the time in the show. The way their relationship is portrayed in this book is too in depth, considering how in the show they seem like acquaintances rather than intensely lovey-dovey. It doesn't surprise me that much, since most male writers make this mistake when it comes to relationships.
But, on a high note, the plot to this book is actually fairly decent. Despite the fact I don't believe in any way that a clone would be in a relationship with a separatist spy, let alone one that literally got his squad killed. I wish we got some more background information about how their relationship started, to answer the question of why Ponder got with her.
Something that broke my heart was how the team downplayed Hunter's feelings time and time again, especially when he tries to accommodate his squad to his best abilities all the time. He's clearly being haunted by Crosshair's decision and just wants his family to settle down somewhere safe, even if it is for a little while, but no one seems to care. And throwing Crosshair's leaving in Hunter's face was so out of line and just odd, why are we subtly blaming Hunter specifically for the decision an independent grown man made? Tech of all people should know better than that.
To me, the quality of this book sometimes felt like underdeveloped fanfiction rather than canon lore. After the show was butchered in season 3, in my opinion, I didn't have high expectations for this book when it was announced. At this point, I'm just so tired of this show and its characters being let down time and time again by poor writing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2025
An exceptional Star Wars book and a worthy addition to the story and legacy of the Bad Batch.
“Phee never said anything about it, as if voicing the observation would somehow diminish the miracle here, but in times like this, she recognized that these grown and bred warriors were among the gentlest, most hospitable beings she’d ever encountered.”
“Phee never said anything about it, as if voicing the observation would somehow diminish the miracle here, but in times like this, she recognized that these grown and bred warriors were among the gentlest, most hospitable beings she’d ever encountered.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2026
The first Star Wars book I've ever listened to and it felt like I was listening to an episode of the Bad Batch. So I would call that a win!
August 12, 2025
I have a mixed view of Star Wars’ “The Bad Batch”, both the animated series and the titular squad/family of misfit clones. In many ways the characters and stories are a stand-in and an amalgamation of characters and story arcs from earlier “Republic Commando” projects I loved when I was younger but nowhere near as good as them (and occasionally to the detriment of actual RC characters that appeared on the Bad Batch). Nonetheless the Bad Batch show/characters, via some impressive episodes/story arcs, still repeatedly tapped into my love of Star Wars’ clones and the struggles they face in A Galaxy Far Far Away. So “Sanctuary”, which follows the Bad Batch in the time frame of the show’s 2nd season was certainly on my radar and I hoped it could be an example of the group living up to their story potential. And ultimately it was.
Sanctuary is perhaps hampered by its place in the Bad Batch timeline. Unlike “Dark Disciple” which adapts unaired episodes of “The Clone Wars”, this book is a spin-off adventure written after the show ended and set between two episodes in the middle of the show’s chronology. This means characters like Echo and Crosshair can’t appear and the fates of the other squad members and show characters can’t change so there’s no tension to what happens to them within the book.
In general I think author Lamar Giles does get the titular characters and the tone/themes of the show right. Hunter is probably the weakest written character and Wrecker doesn’t do too much to leave an impression but both Omega and Tech get sizable focus and character exploration. The latter gets a lot of scenes together with Phee which should make fans of their relationship happy even if I myself don’t care much for it or Phee.
Overall the portrayal of the returning characters is more than fine. The new characters exclusive to the book are hit or miss. The passengers the Bad Batch must protect are serviceable as characters but I did appreciate their dilemma which ties in with the show’s themes of identity and family and also touches on content the Republic Commando books had. Moten the psycho rich lady is mostly just the psycho rich lady who is only really interesting when she plays opposite to the other antagonist Crane. “Andor” fans I think will like Crane as another member of everyone’s new favorite villainous faction, the ISB. Crane is a bit too black & white evil compared to some of Andor’s ISB characters but he does make for a good and legitimate threat to our heroes and he does have a degree of layers to him.
Between the Andor style conversations between the antagonists and the Bad Batch show style set pieces, I feel like Sanctuary could appeal to all sorts of Star Wars fans (even if BB fans get the most out of it). There is plenty to enjoy with Sanctuary. The opening heist nails the general chaotic nature the show’s missions had and the climatic fight and subsequent scene are very tense and exciting. The subsequent scene in question brings a popular Star Wars character into the book in a fun way, albeit it was surprising considering how the character never appeared on the Bad Batch show (their presence makes me wonder if its a set up for an upcoming Star Wars book). It makes it clear how in some ways the Bad Batch story could be quite isolated from the grander Star Wars story (barring the Project Necromancer plot and cameo characters) and Sanctuary is isolated even within that. Still I had a lot of enjoyment with this self-contained story.
While I don’t think the book has done too much to shift my still mixed view on the Bad Batch characters and show and the book’s appeal is limited to those not already familiar with them, “Sanctuary” remains a very solid Star Wars outing. Bad Batch fans will definitely like it, as well as those that have seen the show and even those that haven’t might get something out of Sanctuary. I’d definitely be interested to see Lamar Giles do more Star Wars books moving forward be it another Bad Batch story (preferably before or after the show) or another one all together .
Sanctuary is perhaps hampered by its place in the Bad Batch timeline. Unlike “Dark Disciple” which adapts unaired episodes of “The Clone Wars”, this book is a spin-off adventure written after the show ended and set between two episodes in the middle of the show’s chronology. This means characters like Echo and Crosshair can’t appear and the fates of the other squad members and show characters can’t change so there’s no tension to what happens to them within the book.
In general I think author Lamar Giles does get the titular characters and the tone/themes of the show right. Hunter is probably the weakest written character and Wrecker doesn’t do too much to leave an impression but both Omega and Tech get sizable focus and character exploration. The latter gets a lot of scenes together with Phee which should make fans of their relationship happy even if I myself don’t care much for it or Phee.
Overall the portrayal of the returning characters is more than fine. The new characters exclusive to the book are hit or miss. The passengers the Bad Batch must protect are serviceable as characters but I did appreciate their dilemma which ties in with the show’s themes of identity and family and also touches on content the Republic Commando books had. Moten the psycho rich lady is mostly just the psycho rich lady who is only really interesting when she plays opposite to the other antagonist Crane. “Andor” fans I think will like Crane as another member of everyone’s new favorite villainous faction, the ISB. Crane is a bit too black & white evil compared to some of Andor’s ISB characters but he does make for a good and legitimate threat to our heroes and he does have a degree of layers to him.
Between the Andor style conversations between the antagonists and the Bad Batch show style set pieces, I feel like Sanctuary could appeal to all sorts of Star Wars fans (even if BB fans get the most out of it). There is plenty to enjoy with Sanctuary. The opening heist nails the general chaotic nature the show’s missions had and the climatic fight and subsequent scene are very tense and exciting. The subsequent scene in question brings a popular Star Wars character into the book in a fun way, albeit it was surprising considering how the character never appeared on the Bad Batch show (their presence makes me wonder if its a set up for an upcoming Star Wars book). It makes it clear how in some ways the Bad Batch story could be quite isolated from the grander Star Wars story (barring the Project Necromancer plot and cameo characters) and Sanctuary is isolated even within that. Still I had a lot of enjoyment with this self-contained story.
While I don’t think the book has done too much to shift my still mixed view on the Bad Batch characters and show and the book’s appeal is limited to those not already familiar with them, “Sanctuary” remains a very solid Star Wars outing. Bad Batch fans will definitely like it, as well as those that have seen the show and even those that haven’t might get something out of Sanctuary. I’d definitely be interested to see Lamar Giles do more Star Wars books moving forward be it another Bad Batch story (preferably before or after the show) or another one all together .
August 7, 2025
I have to start this review by saying that I am not a Batcher, I am not the biggest lover of the Bad Batch show. I have watched the entire show, but I was more critical of it than others and am not particular in love with the characters like other people are.
So, as this book is aimed at people who love these characters and want more of them, maybe I am not the particular audience for this book. And with this book being set in the middle of my least favourite season, where there can't be much character progression. I wasn't overly excited for this book.
All that being said, this felt like a very good bonus episode of the show. The main characters were written well. The plot was fun and engaging and didn't just feel like another filler episode of the show.
The B plot wasn't overly interesting at first right up until the end when it really made me sit up.
All in all, this was a solid book with a solid story and good emotional beats with some of the new characters. But I definitely think other people who are bigger fans of the show will enjoy this one more than me.
So, as this book is aimed at people who love these characters and want more of them, maybe I am not the particular audience for this book. And with this book being set in the middle of my least favourite season, where there can't be much character progression. I wasn't overly excited for this book.
All that being said, this felt like a very good bonus episode of the show. The main characters were written well. The plot was fun and engaging and didn't just feel like another filler episode of the show.
The B plot wasn't overly interesting at first right up until the end when it really made me sit up.
All in all, this was a solid book with a solid story and good emotional beats with some of the new characters. But I definitely think other people who are bigger fans of the show will enjoy this one more than me.
August 6, 2025
The book started with Hunter getting rage baited by a droid and I think thats perfect. Seeing into his head (wow does he have a LOT of emotions) really was eye opening. At one point he was angry but saw Omega and chilled out, which I loved because Hunter really is a family man who just wants all his siblings safe and happy on Pabu. I especially loved the Crosshair dream sequence! I love the full circle ending of the book with him peeling MORE jogan fruit (wonder which fruit thats most alike to in our world?) to chill out with his family, which I feel shows how he has cone to term with at least some of his thoughts and feelings from the earlier parts of the book.
Wrecker really shone in this! In the show he's always felt a little flat to me (I still love him ofc) but we really go into his layers here! He's just a pretty chill guy who likes explosions and hates to see his family in distress. I can also see him as an uncle that spoils any nieces or nephews.
The biggest part of the book for me (other than Hunter's mom tendency's) was how much of Tech and Phee's relationship we got to see. Those two wanted eachother so bad, which makes what happened in the show so much more evil. Tech loved their little dance they were doing around eachother and treasured the time he got to spend with Phee! I can't even talk about my favorite Phee moments because I loved nearly everytime she was in the scene.
Omega was very much Omega in this book and I loved her like my own daughter. Her relationship with Hunter (and the rest of her brothers) was probably my favorite part of this book. She is so intelligent and seeing that explored more was a delight. Omega was a new beginning for Hunter and being shown that had me smiling because she really is his kid that gave him a spark of light in his life. Not to say that she isn't close with her other brothers! The little scenes we got of her interacting solo with Wrecker and Tech were delightful! Her being able to interpret just what Tech is thinking from a tilt of his head when Hunter was in one of his snits to her going to Wrecker for backup in a conversation was fantastic! She really was the mvp for the Clones in this book (looking at you, Coru, the protein fiend baby)
I will say one of the funnier moments for me is when Sohi says "Omega..." right after Crane asks about the baby's name and Crane is just disgusted by the name. I guess we just get used to everybody's kinda odd names after the first few episodes, cause that line had me laughing. It was fun seeing Sohi and Crane's horrific father daughter relationship then going back to see Hunter and Omega being cute. I do hope Ponder and Coru's relationship turns out more like the latter than the former tbh haha. 5/5 stars, amazing more in depth exploration of characters that I already love and makes me love them more!
Wrecker really shone in this! In the show he's always felt a little flat to me (I still love him ofc) but we really go into his layers here! He's just a pretty chill guy who likes explosions and hates to see his family in distress. I can also see him as an uncle that spoils any nieces or nephews.
The biggest part of the book for me (other than Hunter's mom tendency's) was how much of Tech and Phee's relationship we got to see. Those two wanted eachother so bad, which makes what happened in the show so much more evil. Tech loved their little dance they were doing around eachother and treasured the time he got to spend with Phee! I can't even talk about my favorite Phee moments because I loved nearly everytime she was in the scene.
Omega was very much Omega in this book and I loved her like my own daughter. Her relationship with Hunter (and the rest of her brothers) was probably my favorite part of this book. She is so intelligent and seeing that explored more was a delight. Omega was a new beginning for Hunter and being shown that had me smiling because she really is his kid that gave him a spark of light in his life. Not to say that she isn't close with her other brothers! The little scenes we got of her interacting solo with Wrecker and Tech were delightful! Her being able to interpret just what Tech is thinking from a tilt of his head when Hunter was in one of his snits to her going to Wrecker for backup in a conversation was fantastic! She really was the mvp for the Clones in this book (looking at you, Coru, the protein fiend baby)
I will say one of the funnier moments for me is when Sohi says "Omega..." right after Crane asks about the baby's name and Crane is just disgusted by the name. I guess we just get used to everybody's kinda odd names after the first few episodes, cause that line had me laughing. It was fun seeing Sohi and Crane's horrific father daughter relationship then going back to see Hunter and Omega being cute. I do hope Ponder and Coru's relationship turns out more like the latter than the former tbh haha. 5/5 stars, amazing more in depth exploration of characters that I already love and makes me love them more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2025
4.5⭐️
Wow! Let me start with how much I seriously loved this book. The Bad Batch is extremely special to me, I love it with my whole being. I’ve been a Star Wars fan my entire life, and they are my favorite things to come out of it (so far at least). So, safe to say I had extremely high expectations because no one is going to damage characters I care so deeply about.
Sanctuary handled Clone Force 99 with extreme care. The novel has a really intriguing story that falls seamlessly in line with the animated show. The characters brought in were well done and developed. I truly enjoyed reading about them. I loved the glimpse into Phee and Tech’s relationship, it’s something I always wanted more developed from the show.
However, though it was so so so close, this book was not a 5 star read for me. I really really really wanted to… but being that these characters are very special to me, I’m going to be a little extra picky. There were to 2 lines from Hunter that rubbed me the wrong way, they felt out of character in my opinion. I know a really small detail but still. And… look. I LOVE Phee’s nickname for Tech, Brown Eyes is special and iconic. But… IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE THE ONLY THING HE IS REFERRED TO THE ENTIRE NOVEL.
Anyways… besides that I truly truly truly loved it and had such an amazing time getting to read it. I’m a sucker for The Bad Batch, so getting something new for them is a real treat.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I don’t remember the exact wording of the Hunter Quotes, but the 2 that didn’t sit right with me were something like;
“I’m a soldier, I don’t throw tantrums.”
“What knife do you want me to use? Mine are covered in our enemies blood.”
Again not the exact wording but… something like that.
Wow! Let me start with how much I seriously loved this book. The Bad Batch is extremely special to me, I love it with my whole being. I’ve been a Star Wars fan my entire life, and they are my favorite things to come out of it (so far at least). So, safe to say I had extremely high expectations because no one is going to damage characters I care so deeply about.
Sanctuary handled Clone Force 99 with extreme care. The novel has a really intriguing story that falls seamlessly in line with the animated show. The characters brought in were well done and developed. I truly enjoyed reading about them. I loved the glimpse into Phee and Tech’s relationship, it’s something I always wanted more developed from the show.
However, though it was so so so close, this book was not a 5 star read for me. I really really really wanted to… but being that these characters are very special to me, I’m going to be a little extra picky. There were to 2 lines from Hunter that rubbed me the wrong way, they felt out of character in my opinion. I know a really small detail but still. And… look. I LOVE Phee’s nickname for Tech, Brown Eyes is special and iconic. But… IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE THE ONLY THING HE IS REFERRED TO THE ENTIRE NOVEL.
Anyways… besides that I truly truly truly loved it and had such an amazing time getting to read it. I’m a sucker for The Bad Batch, so getting something new for them is a real treat.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I don’t remember the exact wording of the Hunter Quotes, but the 2 that didn’t sit right with me were something like;
“I’m a soldier, I don’t throw tantrums.”
“What knife do you want me to use? Mine are covered in our enemies blood.”
Again not the exact wording but… something like that.
August 7, 2025
A thrilling, heartwarming bonus episode of "The Bad Batch."
My full review from my Space Wizards Book Club Substack:
Star Wars: Sanctuary — A Bad Batch Novel showcases what I love most about Star Wars books: the thoughts, emotions, and motivations of characters we largely only see on the screen. It’s Star Wars books like this one that make me fall more in love with certain characters and actually grow to like and better understand others. Dark Disciple changed my mind about Asajj Ventress. Inquisitor: Rise of the Red Blade made me empathize with and pity the Inquisitors. After reading Sanctuary, I have a greater appreciation and love for the ragtag found family crew that is Clone Force 99.
Yes, I loved The Bad Batch — all three seasons of the show. So, when Sanctuary was announced earlier this year, I was excited to get more time with Hunter, Omega, Wrecker, Tech, Echo, and Crosshair. I was a bit disappointed when I read the synopsis and saw that the story takes place near the end of season 2, specifically the episode “Pabu.” Crosshair is still gone, and Echo is off on a mission with Captain Rex. We know how the Batch’s story ends, so why go back for a book that’s essentially a bonus episode?
For one, Sanctuary does read like a bonus episode of The Bad Batch, which I loved. Author Lamar Giles (he wrote “Twenty and Out” in From a Certain Point of View: Return of the Jedi) had the (what I assume was) nerve-wracking task of capturing the essence of these beloved characters on the page after they’d been brought to life for three seasons through the voice acting talents of Dee Bradley Baker and Michelle Ang. Giles exceeded my expectations. All of the characters felt plucked from the screen. And the best parts of the novel were the inner monologues — a facet we don’t get when watching the show.
Hunter and Tech are essentially the lead characters, as we get the most time with them and their thoughts. Hunter is broody as always, but at this point in his journey, he’s struggling with some internal crises and existential questions. And with two of his brothers gone, he questions if Clone Force 99 (that includes Omega) will be a family again. And if they aren’t a true squad, do they even need him?
As for Tech, any more moments with him are a gift. He and Wrecker are my favorite Batchers, and I was devastated when he enacted Plan 99 and sacrificed himself to save the others in the season 2 finale. Sanctuary gives us much-needed Tech time and expands upon his relationships with his brothers — and Phee. It’s the budding romance between the neurodivergent-coded clone and the treasure hunter that’s one of the best parts of the novel. Few Star Wars books (outside of The High Republic) get me giggling and kicking my feet in glee, but Sanctuary did that multiple times. Phee Genoa, the woman you are.
I should really stop doubting Star Wars’ ability to make me adore characters whom I was previously indifferent about.
While Omega and Wrecker take more of a backseat in Sanctuary, they do have several notable scenes that highlight their personalities. Wrecker brings the booms (literally) but occasionally is the voice of simple reason with a dedication to doing what’s right. Omega is brilliant, courageous, and quick on her feet — traits that Hunter is still vocally impressed by throughout the book. If there’s ever another opportunity for more Bad Batch stories, I vote for Omega as the star.
While the expanded characterizations of the Batch are the brightest spots of the book, the overall story arc and new antagonists leave something to be desired. In their attempts to get funds to help rebuild Pabu after the tsunami, the Batch agrees to ferry a mysterious couple expecting a baby to a supposedly safe destination across the galaxy. This job puts them in the crosshairs of an ISB officer and a wealthy aristocrat who’s on a first-name basis with the Emperor and with aspirations to become a regional governor. I won’t say too much about these characters and their motivations, but the novel spends a lot of time with them for a relatively short book (320 pages). There were many times in the middle when I questioned if this was a Bad Batch story or an opportunity to expand the state of the galaxy in the earliest days of the Empire.
Still, the Batch and the couple they ferry showcase the morals of the story of both the book and the show — doing anything and sacrificing it all to protect your family.
I’ll admit, I struggled to stay engaged with and want to pick up Sanctuary. I loved the first few chapters, which made me realize how much I missed the Bad Batch. But it began losing me in the middle until I picked up the audiobook (thanks, Penguin Random House Audio, for the files). The amazing Marc Thompson narrates, turning Sanctuary into a truly thrilling bonus episode of The Bad Batch.
Just like in the show, the book is action-packed, twisty, character-forward, and bursting at the seams with heart and humor. Sanctuary is a precious gift to Bad Batch fans and an ode to the unsung, forgotten clone heroes in the galaxy.
My full review from my Space Wizards Book Club Substack:
Star Wars: Sanctuary — A Bad Batch Novel showcases what I love most about Star Wars books: the thoughts, emotions, and motivations of characters we largely only see on the screen. It’s Star Wars books like this one that make me fall more in love with certain characters and actually grow to like and better understand others. Dark Disciple changed my mind about Asajj Ventress. Inquisitor: Rise of the Red Blade made me empathize with and pity the Inquisitors. After reading Sanctuary, I have a greater appreciation and love for the ragtag found family crew that is Clone Force 99.
Yes, I loved The Bad Batch — all three seasons of the show. So, when Sanctuary was announced earlier this year, I was excited to get more time with Hunter, Omega, Wrecker, Tech, Echo, and Crosshair. I was a bit disappointed when I read the synopsis and saw that the story takes place near the end of season 2, specifically the episode “Pabu.” Crosshair is still gone, and Echo is off on a mission with Captain Rex. We know how the Batch’s story ends, so why go back for a book that’s essentially a bonus episode?
For one, Sanctuary does read like a bonus episode of The Bad Batch, which I loved. Author Lamar Giles (he wrote “Twenty and Out” in From a Certain Point of View: Return of the Jedi) had the (what I assume was) nerve-wracking task of capturing the essence of these beloved characters on the page after they’d been brought to life for three seasons through the voice acting talents of Dee Bradley Baker and Michelle Ang. Giles exceeded my expectations. All of the characters felt plucked from the screen. And the best parts of the novel were the inner monologues — a facet we don’t get when watching the show.
Hunter and Tech are essentially the lead characters, as we get the most time with them and their thoughts. Hunter is broody as always, but at this point in his journey, he’s struggling with some internal crises and existential questions. And with two of his brothers gone, he questions if Clone Force 99 (that includes Omega) will be a family again. And if they aren’t a true squad, do they even need him?
As for Tech, any more moments with him are a gift. He and Wrecker are my favorite Batchers, and I was devastated when he enacted Plan 99 and sacrificed himself to save the others in the season 2 finale. Sanctuary gives us much-needed Tech time and expands upon his relationships with his brothers — and Phee. It’s the budding romance between the neurodivergent-coded clone and the treasure hunter that’s one of the best parts of the novel. Few Star Wars books (outside of The High Republic) get me giggling and kicking my feet in glee, but Sanctuary did that multiple times. Phee Genoa, the woman you are.
I should really stop doubting Star Wars’ ability to make me adore characters whom I was previously indifferent about.
While Omega and Wrecker take more of a backseat in Sanctuary, they do have several notable scenes that highlight their personalities. Wrecker brings the booms (literally) but occasionally is the voice of simple reason with a dedication to doing what’s right. Omega is brilliant, courageous, and quick on her feet — traits that Hunter is still vocally impressed by throughout the book. If there’s ever another opportunity for more Bad Batch stories, I vote for Omega as the star.
While the expanded characterizations of the Batch are the brightest spots of the book, the overall story arc and new antagonists leave something to be desired. In their attempts to get funds to help rebuild Pabu after the tsunami, the Batch agrees to ferry a mysterious couple expecting a baby to a supposedly safe destination across the galaxy. This job puts them in the crosshairs of an ISB officer and a wealthy aristocrat who’s on a first-name basis with the Emperor and with aspirations to become a regional governor. I won’t say too much about these characters and their motivations, but the novel spends a lot of time with them for a relatively short book (320 pages). There were many times in the middle when I questioned if this was a Bad Batch story or an opportunity to expand the state of the galaxy in the earliest days of the Empire.
Still, the Batch and the couple they ferry showcase the morals of the story of both the book and the show — doing anything and sacrificing it all to protect your family.
I’ll admit, I struggled to stay engaged with and want to pick up Sanctuary. I loved the first few chapters, which made me realize how much I missed the Bad Batch. But it began losing me in the middle until I picked up the audiobook (thanks, Penguin Random House Audio, for the files). The amazing Marc Thompson narrates, turning Sanctuary into a truly thrilling bonus episode of The Bad Batch.
Just like in the show, the book is action-packed, twisty, character-forward, and bursting at the seams with heart and humor. Sanctuary is a precious gift to Bad Batch fans and an ode to the unsung, forgotten clone heroes in the galaxy.
August 6, 2025
we are so back bad batch nation!!
this really reads like an extended episode of the bad batch and I could hear all their voices so clearly
the absolute highlight of this book though was its delving deeper into tech and phee's relationship all while plan 99 haunts the narrative.
99/99 wish it were longer
this really reads like an extended episode of the bad batch and I could hear all their voices so clearly
the absolute highlight of this book though was its delving deeper into tech and phee's relationship all while plan 99 haunts the narrative.
99/99 wish it were longer
November 18, 2025
A clone’s life (especially one operating in the empire’s shadow) can be hazardous…and it’s hard to make a living…
Star Wars: Sanctuary (A Bad Batch Novel) by Lamar Giles is a decent novel following the Bad Batch during season two.
While I am far behind on the show, I know enough to follow what was happening and the main remaining members of the Bad Batch, though Hunter is the only one that gets a heavy amount of screen time with the others mostly filling a role and having some comments but not being a central figure.
The story seems the Bad Batch helping extract a former Republic politician and getting her and her family to safety…but there are complications…
In the process we also get a view on clone issues in senate politics…a noble upstart trying to play a game to gather dirt on others to try and impress her old friend the new emperor…and a few new planetary hotpot’s involving auctions, mercenary shootouts, and suspicions business dealings…
There’s a lot going on and it includes quite a lore dump. I was impressed by how much old eu footnotes were dropped out here as we focused on only a handful of characters…
This was the kind of small scale merc story I like in my Star Wars…
Star Wars: Sanctuary (A Bad Batch Novel) by Lamar Giles is a decent novel following the Bad Batch during season two.
While I am far behind on the show, I know enough to follow what was happening and the main remaining members of the Bad Batch, though Hunter is the only one that gets a heavy amount of screen time with the others mostly filling a role and having some comments but not being a central figure.
The story seems the Bad Batch helping extract a former Republic politician and getting her and her family to safety…but there are complications…
In the process we also get a view on clone issues in senate politics…a noble upstart trying to play a game to gather dirt on others to try and impress her old friend the new emperor…and a few new planetary hotpot’s involving auctions, mercenary shootouts, and suspicions business dealings…
There’s a lot going on and it includes quite a lore dump. I was impressed by how much old eu footnotes were dropped out here as we focused on only a handful of characters…
This was the kind of small scale merc story I like in my Star Wars…
July 1, 2026
She hesitated. "Are you angry with me?"
"Because you told me the truth? No. Never."
"I'm glad. We'll never not be good, Hunter. I love you, and Wrecker, and Tech, and Echo. Crosshair, not so much, but I'm sure he'll come around one day. You'll see." She grinned and bounded through the milling crowd to deliver her natural remedy to the clinic.
I had such a fun time adventuring with these soldier siblings and co. again. Whispers of pro-life and a strong heartbeat of pro-family, galactic planet hopping, Hunter’s natural and believable character struggles, Omega’s compassion, some explosions for Wrecker, and the barest hint of romance… yes. (Tech is still my favorite, too.)
I didn’t love the style or structuring, and I do wish Echo could have been along for the ride, but I’m very willing to overlook those quibbles for the sake of enjoying another collection of Bad Batch episodes in prose form.
I love the Bad Batch so much. I’m pretty sure I always will. And this book was a pleasure to read because it allowed me to spend more time with them. I’m glad it exists because of that.
🚀 heads-up for references to religions’ fertility idols, depictions of substances (alcohol abuse, smoking, and medical stimulants), violence (shooting, torture, and decapitation), parental abuse (similar to that of Thanos from the Marvel universe), some suggestive dialogue, and very infrequent “mild” language (b**tard, p*ss, and d**ned) 🚀
September 13, 2025
I like the animated series a lot better. The book kind of slowed things down so much that I lost interest in it around the 42% area so sorry guys I added the effort. Maybe I’ll go back to it another time but for now just give it a three not because it was bad or because it didn’t compare to the series
January 7, 2026
This felt just like an excellent episode of the Bad Batch!
February 10, 2026
I love my wooby goobies
Returning to add: bless Lamar Giles for his Tech/Phee content, curse Lamar Giles for no emo black cat Crosshair content
Returning to add: bless Lamar Giles for his Tech/Phee content, curse Lamar Giles for no emo black cat Crosshair content
Read
January 31, 2026So this was a fun ride. Lamar Giles nails the unique voices of each member of the Bad Batch. This is a familiar tale of the Bad Batch going on a mission that goes awry, and it gains the advantage of going into a bit of darker direction than the show, as the book is geared towards adults.
That being said, it adds some interesting depth to each of the characters we know and love, particularly Hunter, Wrecker, and Tech.
That being said, it adds some interesting depth to each of the characters we know and love, particularly Hunter, Wrecker, and Tech.
August 6, 2025
This was such a fun little treat, I missed them so much!! The secondary plot & characters were a little meh at times but towards the end I really found myself enjoying it! And I will eat up star wars worldbuilding every time.
March 16, 2025
GUYS IM SO EXCITED
Want to Read
April 24, 2025give it to me NOWWWW
August 25, 2025
look at how they've massacred my favs
January 1, 2026
(sobbing) Bad Batch nation, how are we feeling? SPOILERS AHEAD!
The Bad Batch ended last year with an impactful finale, and ever since we’ve been getting so much more content of the squad through comics and this book’s recent release. Out of all the Star Wars shows, this was one I started with and it made such an impact on me, as it did the whole fandom. Diving in right after rewatching a few episodes, I took in every detail and enjoyed how this book showed more depth into some characters, as well as give us some details about some things that have happened that just break our hearts more (what do you mean this much Tech and Phee happened before what happened??). Lamar Giles really did a wonderful job with all these characters; so many pages were a rollercoaster of emotions.
“He liked being in close proximity to Phee.”
Tech and Phee’s relationship were shown in small bits with them being together on screen and Phee always calling Tech “Brown Eyes” in a flirty manner, and while Tech does process his emotions and feelings differently in his own way, we still saw how Tech grew to care and grow feelings for Phee as she had. Because of the events with Plan 99, Tech and Phee never got their happy ending sadly, as we wonder what could have been. Giles gives us so much TechPhee content in this book that we got to know that the two shared good small intimate moments whenever they were with each other, and Tech always wondered about what could be if he let himself dive into his feelings more for Phee. As he says, he likes being around her and always listens to her, even if it may be difficult for him to express it sometimes. He secretly wanted to tell Phee how he feels soon, which just hurts so much afterwards. It was also hilarious how Hunter was just losing it while Phee was openly flirting with Tech in front of him. I need to see Tech and Phee’s designs animated.
“There was another way to use the detonator if the situation became unassailable. Plan 99.”
Hearing about Plan 99 just takes me straight to flashbacks of the night that episode aired. Hunter started thinking about how and when that plan of theirs was created, and it's just tears raining down while remembering Tech. Tech had done so much (being there for his brothers and sister, teaching Omega how to fly, sacrificing himself to save his family) before Plan 99, and his memory lives on through his family and his broken glasses that remain with Omega. When Tech’s glasses were brought to detail in the beginning of the book, I immediately thought of the broken glasses and how much history it holds now.
In the same part, Hunter was thinking about how his squad–his family–would always come to help and rescue him if something happened to him. It reminded me of when he got captured in S1 and his family immediately began searching for him to get him back, and now I can’t see that scene the same way with Hunter’s perspective. He’s always wanting to keep his family safe and is always looking out for them, and he feels it as his responsibility while being the leader and the older brother of the squad). With times and things changing in the squad, Hunter thinks about what could become of them.
Side note: Hunter was also pure comedy in this book. Man was facing so much stress over Sohi potentially giving birth in the Marauder.
“You’re amazing,’ Hunter said. And meant it.”
Hunter and Omega, the best brother-sister-father-daugher duo of all time. Omega’s care and safety has always become one of Hunter’s priorities, and he wants her to grow in a safe galaxy. He’s constantly thinking about Pabu and how that could be a choice for them to live somewhere safe, and thinking about Omega’s future. When he started to foresee an older Omega leaving on her own, I sobbed at that reminder of how the finale ended with Omega leaving on her own as an adult to fight in the Rebellion. Hunter loves Omega and Omega loves him, and he wants the best for her. Hunter is always in awe of what Omega can do and the potential she has. I love how the book mentions how hard Hunter trains Omega so that she can be strong just like them. When Hunter woke up after being knocked out and immediately crawled to Omega to make sure she was okay, I cried.
“No, I don’t want to stay anywhere. But I can live anywhere. You should know that better than anyone.”
Hunter has a conversation with Wrecker about Pabu while he considers having his family live there, as the debate remains in the air. They don’t know yet that they choose to remain and live on Pabu as a safe haven for Omega to grow up in and to stay safe away from the Empire. The squad gets a happy ending in a way after so much fighting and so much loss.
“What you’re going to find about this galaxy is a lot of beings will misunderstand you.”
This is one of my new favorite quotes from Wrecker. I really enjoyed the “screen time” he got in this book and how he immediately loved being with baby Coru after she was born, treating her as her “niece” since she is the daughter of a clone. I felt that the show could have done a little more with Wrecker, but we love him always as he is and the character he displays.
“I’m going to tell him, Hunter thought.”
Crosshair’s been gone from the squad ever since he chose to be with the Empire, and Hunter admits that he really misses his younger brother. The baby brother of the squad stays close to Hunter’s heart, and while the others also miss him as well, Hunter longs to talk to Crosshair again. It hurts when Hunter dreams of talking to Crosshair again, telling him how much he missed him, seeing his toothpick in his dreams. This gives such a new perspective to Crosshair’s return in S3.
Ponder’s reveal from being the masked Kuuto protecting a pregnant Sohi to a clone who is her husband was shocking but at the same time felt obvious from the foreshadowing with Hunter’s thoughts while he wondered about who he really was. Cut and Suu were brought up but it is true that those were Suu’s children that Cut got (not biologically), and with this book making it canon that clones can get their lovers pregnant regardless of all the things done with their DNA, it was interesting to learn about with Omega ending up helping in the medical room with Sohi and Omega’s extensive health knowledge from Kamino. When Ponder mentioned that he was a sniper in the Clone Wars and got to use one of Crosshair’s backup rifles, did he remind Wrecker of Crosshair? This is going to haunt me.
Sanctuary was such an amazing book, I don’t think I’m ever going to move on from it. I love this family so much and would love to get more novels of them. There’s just so much to be explored with this world and these characters. The Bad Batch is truly timeless and will always be loved.
The Bad Batch ended last year with an impactful finale, and ever since we’ve been getting so much more content of the squad through comics and this book’s recent release. Out of all the Star Wars shows, this was one I started with and it made such an impact on me, as it did the whole fandom. Diving in right after rewatching a few episodes, I took in every detail and enjoyed how this book showed more depth into some characters, as well as give us some details about some things that have happened that just break our hearts more (what do you mean this much Tech and Phee happened before what happened??). Lamar Giles really did a wonderful job with all these characters; so many pages were a rollercoaster of emotions.
“He liked being in close proximity to Phee.”
Tech and Phee’s relationship were shown in small bits with them being together on screen and Phee always calling Tech “Brown Eyes” in a flirty manner, and while Tech does process his emotions and feelings differently in his own way, we still saw how Tech grew to care and grow feelings for Phee as she had. Because of the events with Plan 99, Tech and Phee never got their happy ending sadly, as we wonder what could have been. Giles gives us so much TechPhee content in this book that we got to know that the two shared good small intimate moments whenever they were with each other, and Tech always wondered about what could be if he let himself dive into his feelings more for Phee. As he says, he likes being around her and always listens to her, even if it may be difficult for him to express it sometimes. He secretly wanted to tell Phee how he feels soon, which just hurts so much afterwards. It was also hilarious how Hunter was just losing it while Phee was openly flirting with Tech in front of him. I need to see Tech and Phee’s designs animated.
“There was another way to use the detonator if the situation became unassailable. Plan 99.”
Hearing about Plan 99 just takes me straight to flashbacks of the night that episode aired. Hunter started thinking about how and when that plan of theirs was created, and it's just tears raining down while remembering Tech. Tech had done so much (being there for his brothers and sister, teaching Omega how to fly, sacrificing himself to save his family) before Plan 99, and his memory lives on through his family and his broken glasses that remain with Omega. When Tech’s glasses were brought to detail in the beginning of the book, I immediately thought of the broken glasses and how much history it holds now.
In the same part, Hunter was thinking about how his squad–his family–would always come to help and rescue him if something happened to him. It reminded me of when he got captured in S1 and his family immediately began searching for him to get him back, and now I can’t see that scene the same way with Hunter’s perspective. He’s always wanting to keep his family safe and is always looking out for them, and he feels it as his responsibility while being the leader and the older brother of the squad). With times and things changing in the squad, Hunter thinks about what could become of them.
Side note: Hunter was also pure comedy in this book. Man was facing so much stress over Sohi potentially giving birth in the Marauder.
“You’re amazing,’ Hunter said. And meant it.”
Hunter and Omega, the best brother-sister-father-daugher duo of all time. Omega’s care and safety has always become one of Hunter’s priorities, and he wants her to grow in a safe galaxy. He’s constantly thinking about Pabu and how that could be a choice for them to live somewhere safe, and thinking about Omega’s future. When he started to foresee an older Omega leaving on her own, I sobbed at that reminder of how the finale ended with Omega leaving on her own as an adult to fight in the Rebellion. Hunter loves Omega and Omega loves him, and he wants the best for her. Hunter is always in awe of what Omega can do and the potential she has. I love how the book mentions how hard Hunter trains Omega so that she can be strong just like them. When Hunter woke up after being knocked out and immediately crawled to Omega to make sure she was okay, I cried.
“No, I don’t want to stay anywhere. But I can live anywhere. You should know that better than anyone.”
Hunter has a conversation with Wrecker about Pabu while he considers having his family live there, as the debate remains in the air. They don’t know yet that they choose to remain and live on Pabu as a safe haven for Omega to grow up in and to stay safe away from the Empire. The squad gets a happy ending in a way after so much fighting and so much loss.
“What you’re going to find about this galaxy is a lot of beings will misunderstand you.”
This is one of my new favorite quotes from Wrecker. I really enjoyed the “screen time” he got in this book and how he immediately loved being with baby Coru after she was born, treating her as her “niece” since she is the daughter of a clone. I felt that the show could have done a little more with Wrecker, but we love him always as he is and the character he displays.
“I’m going to tell him, Hunter thought.”
Crosshair’s been gone from the squad ever since he chose to be with the Empire, and Hunter admits that he really misses his younger brother. The baby brother of the squad stays close to Hunter’s heart, and while the others also miss him as well, Hunter longs to talk to Crosshair again. It hurts when Hunter dreams of talking to Crosshair again, telling him how much he missed him, seeing his toothpick in his dreams. This gives such a new perspective to Crosshair’s return in S3.
Ponder’s reveal from being the masked Kuuto protecting a pregnant Sohi to a clone who is her husband was shocking but at the same time felt obvious from the foreshadowing with Hunter’s thoughts while he wondered about who he really was. Cut and Suu were brought up but it is true that those were Suu’s children that Cut got (not biologically), and with this book making it canon that clones can get their lovers pregnant regardless of all the things done with their DNA, it was interesting to learn about with Omega ending up helping in the medical room with Sohi and Omega’s extensive health knowledge from Kamino. When Ponder mentioned that he was a sniper in the Clone Wars and got to use one of Crosshair’s backup rifles, did he remind Wrecker of Crosshair? This is going to haunt me.
Sanctuary was such an amazing book, I don’t think I’m ever going to move on from it. I love this family so much and would love to get more novels of them. There’s just so much to be explored with this world and these characters. The Bad Batch is truly timeless and will always be loved.
August 3, 2025
Lamar Giles has delivered a book perfect for fans of “The Bad Batch.” He nails all of the characters while introducing some of his own along the way.
SANCTUARY sees the Bad Batch working with pirate Phee to get their island home of Pabu some much needed money to help repair it in the wake of a recent natural disaster. Things go from bad to worse very quickly when the crew takes on a pair of passengers with enough secrets to fill a star destroyer.
Lamar’s skill for writing thrillers turns this into a fantastic page turner. As great as the action is in the book (and there’s a lot of it), he does just as well with the deep breaths between the action. This book manages to add depth to a lot of the characters that the show’s short episodes can’t match. I especially like how Wrecker shows off more layers to his persona than the comic relief he’s often reduced to. Likewise, I loved getting to see Tech take center stage in a way I don’t think the show ever allowed him to, which includes some wonderfully intimate moments between him and Phee.
At its heart, SANCTUARY is a book about family. I like that the way Lamar explores it is how it shows a group designed to be a military unit must learn how to redefine itself as something outside of an army, something they aren’t well-equipped to do. It’s not easy to write a story within an existing universe, but Lamar does it smoothly, without contradicting anything from the TV show while adding something meaningful to it.
SANCTUARY sees the Bad Batch working with pirate Phee to get their island home of Pabu some much needed money to help repair it in the wake of a recent natural disaster. Things go from bad to worse very quickly when the crew takes on a pair of passengers with enough secrets to fill a star destroyer.
Lamar’s skill for writing thrillers turns this into a fantastic page turner. As great as the action is in the book (and there’s a lot of it), he does just as well with the deep breaths between the action. This book manages to add depth to a lot of the characters that the show’s short episodes can’t match. I especially like how Wrecker shows off more layers to his persona than the comic relief he’s often reduced to. Likewise, I loved getting to see Tech take center stage in a way I don’t think the show ever allowed him to, which includes some wonderfully intimate moments between him and Phee.
At its heart, SANCTUARY is a book about family. I like that the way Lamar explores it is how it shows a group designed to be a military unit must learn how to redefine itself as something outside of an army, something they aren’t well-equipped to do. It’s not easy to write a story within an existing universe, but Lamar does it smoothly, without contradicting anything from the TV show while adding something meaningful to it.
August 23, 2025
The biggest issue for me was that half of the book is about the villian talking with another antagonist for seemingly hours with no/or barely any connection to the plot of this book. Why? It seems like the author really wanted to dive into more Empire Lore, which is fine I guess, but they should have done it more sublty and more tied in with the story as a whole. I didn't need so many chapters from the villains point of view when in the end he's actually in conflict for the last 4 chapters. Seems unlogical to write so much we don't need.
Another thing, while this is marketed and made to be a Bad Batch Novel, I fear they aren't the main characters in this book. Around 20% in a random side character picks up that role and after that the entire book revolves about them. I didn't hate the characters but I went in expecting Bad Batch Shenanigans and group discussions and got almost no scenes of everyone together - except for lightheartedness and comedy points.
In the middle of the book it kind of looses its drive and the plot is just barely there, which seemed pretty weird.
Last but not least the conclusion to the problem stated at the beginning and the overarching goal the crew had - at least before the highjacking of the story by the afforementioned side character - on this mission felt entirly like an afternote. It was solved in 3 lines. Its obvious the author forgot about the dillema while making the story revolve around his Original Character and realized later that he would need to rewrite the entire plot or throw it in like a conveniance in the last chapter. In case you hadn't forgotten our crews goals yourself because no one in this book actually seems to care about that.
Should I have rated this book lower than I have? Yes, but I am a Wrecker fangirl till the day I die and I did adore his scenes in this book, so 3⭐️ it is.
Another thing, while this is marketed and made to be a Bad Batch Novel, I fear they aren't the main characters in this book. Around 20% in a random side character picks up that role and after that the entire book revolves about them. I didn't hate the characters but I went in expecting Bad Batch Shenanigans and group discussions and got almost no scenes of everyone together - except for lightheartedness and comedy points.
In the middle of the book it kind of looses its drive and the plot is just barely there, which seemed pretty weird.
Last but not least the conclusion to the problem stated at the beginning and the overarching goal the crew had - at least before the highjacking of the story by the afforementioned side character - on this mission felt entirly like an afternote. It was solved in 3 lines. Its obvious the author forgot about the dillema while making the story revolve around his Original Character and realized later that he would need to rewrite the entire plot or throw it in like a conveniance in the last chapter. In case you hadn't forgotten our crews goals yourself because no one in this book actually seems to care about that.
Should I have rated this book lower than I have? Yes, but I am a Wrecker fangirl till the day I die and I did adore his scenes in this book, so 3⭐️ it is.
December 16, 2025
A decent Star Wars novel. Basically an extended Bad Batch episode. I missed Crosshair as much as Hunter does, but I knew going in that he wouldn’t be involved. (Although he makes a brief appearance in a dream.) The book moves very quickly and is not too long (an issue with other Star Wars books I’ve read).
We get a more detailed look at the growing relationship between Tech and Phee. Meet another Reg. Watch the Bad Batch and Omega use their special skills. Best line in the book, said by Tech to a bad guy: “While my brothers and I each have our specialties, the things we’re best at, relatively speaking, each of us is good at everything.” (p. 263)
The one off note for me was when Omega casually says to Hunter, “I love you, and Wrecker, and Tech, and Echo. Crosshair, not so much, but I’m sure he’ll come around one day.” (p 228) Omega would never think that much less say it out loud. Still, I would definitely read another book by Lamar Giles.
Note: casual child abuse by a bad guy.
We get a more detailed look at the growing relationship between Tech and Phee. Meet another Reg. Watch the Bad Batch and Omega use their special skills. Best line in the book, said by Tech to a bad guy: “While my brothers and I each have our specialties, the things we’re best at, relatively speaking, each of us is good at everything.” (p. 263)
The one off note for me was when Omega casually says to Hunter, “I love you, and Wrecker, and Tech, and Echo. Crosshair, not so much, but I’m sure he’ll come around one day.” (p 228) Omega would never think that much less say it out loud. Still, I would definitely read another book by Lamar Giles.
Note: casual child abuse by a bad guy.
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