Star Wars: New Jedi Order: Star by Star: Book 9

This is one of the most powerful books in the New Jedi Order series, not least of all because of the major twists it introduces to the series' plot arc. As a result, readers are sure to be torn as to whether to love or hate it. Star by Star does start slowly, and some apparent errors occur in the opening chapters (Jaina's status with Rogue Squadron is altered from the last book, for example). The scenes with the adult characters are often slow throughout the book, and in some places Denning insufficiently explains events, leaving the reader wondering how the story got from point A to point B. These are my only trifles with Denning's writing. His character development is good and he manages to breathe life into a number of the rather flat Jedi from Kevin J. Anderson's young readers' series. He also creates an exciting new group of characters--the Barabels, whom we meet in the e-book Recovery (included in the paperback). In addition, Denning writes excellent action scenes. Every chapter about the mission of the young Jedi is a page-turner. This is a blessing in a 600+ page book. On the whole, I think Denning is one of the most skilled writers in the Star Wars franchise.In part because Denning writes so well, some of the plot is hard to swallow--bad things happen, and Denning emotionally involves the reader in them. Despite the book being a page-turner, I had to read it slowly because I found that the only way for me to deal with how upsetting the events in it were was to take them in small doses. At one point I even wished I could un-read what I had read because it was so depressing. Star Wars fans who prefer to see the franchise's characters cleverly work their way out of tough situations will really dislike this book. However, I appreciated both the realism of what happened here, and Denning's ability to involve me in it. I have read too many Star Wars books that have made me roll my eyes at supposedly significant events and that have left me emotionally indifferent, so I give kudos to Denning for doing just the opposite. Star by Star is a difficult read, but it's worth the trouble.

Yes it is action packed, and very dark but great as well. The Vong are ruthless and if they are to be defeated a great price must be paid. Some fans might not like the dark tones this series has adapted but I for one love it. Its about time the jedi met a foe that wasn't easily killed offf with one blow from their lightsaber. I do however have a minor complaint; having purchased the audiobook version I believe it was a tad too abridged this time round. Abridging a 200 or 300 page book is okay but a large book such as this and with a slue of characters, well I am sure there were sub-plots which I did not find out about. Yes,as always, the main story was there and music and funky sound effects but I think they should have included a little more. The reader did a good job and as every other fan,I can't wait for the next one to come outt. Personally,I would like to see the series get even a little darker before the final turning point comes; but lets spare the solos for a time. Highly recommended.

Star by Star is an excellent addition to the New Jedi Order Series. It is a very tense action packed story that does not falter. An important main character is killed (which is highly suspect, I agree with previous reviewer), and when this character "dies" it is like a physical blow to you. The reactions of the different people that experience this death are very human not what you normally expect of the heroes of the Star Wars Universe, reminding the reader that no matter how powerful a Jedi Master is they are still only human. This story is much darker, very different in tone than the Keyes's Conquest and Rebirth. As with all the other books in the series, however, Denning continues to add every Jedi ever mentioned previously into his story. This is not a book for children. There are serious issues and lots of death and destruction in it. This story pulls the reader in and does not let you go. I finished it in one night because I could not put it down. When I was finished I felt emotionally drained from it. Of all the New Jedi Order books written only Rebirth is better than Star by Star.

One of the best Starwars books ever written , as well as being A perfect example of what Science Fiction should be like. This book has complex characters, strange technology ,and an intense plot. In the story we are given a believable plot that we can somewhat relate to, A battered government is forced to make a tough decision , that governments of our own world have had to make (to act in accordance to threats of a terrorist or invader ) , children come of age and claim their destiny , and we learn just what it means to be a hero. No spoilers , but the Solo's are the stars this time around, man can they fight!

Great for your Star Wars fan who likes to read

The book was delivered in great condition! Good packaging and no issues with the sleeve, binding, or pages!With Star Wars moving into SJW nonsense instead of good story development, it is nice to read the original Expanded Universe.

Very good condition, great service, great (continuing!) story.