Twenty-one years after the defeat of the Empire, the New Republic is facing threats to its peace: a charismatic firebrand is inciting war, rogue Jedi Knights are practising vigilante law, and a mysterious alien race is mounting an invasion. Can the heroes who overthrew the Empire triumph again?

The ruthless warlord Thrawn may have found the firepower needed to take a bite out of the New Republic, leaving Luke, Leia, Hans, and Chewbacca up against more than they bargained for.

It is a dark time for the New Republic. The Yuukhan Vong, despite some recent losses, continue to advance into the Core, and continue their relentless hunt for the Jedi. Now, in a desperate act of courage, Anakin Solo leads a Jedi strike force into the heart of Yuukhan Vong territory, where he hopes to destroy a major Vong anti-jedi weapon.

Episode 1 of a new STAR WARS trilogy, the saga that captured the imaginations of millions, turns back in time to reveal its cloaked origins, the story of a legend, a tale of good & evil, of myth & magic, of innocence & power. Based on the screenplay by Lucas this novel provides rich detail and insight into the minds & motives of the characters.

After the death of his beloved partner Chewbacca at the hands of the alien Yuuzhan Vong, Han Solo is full of grief and despair - and out for revenge.