by Timothy Zahn
First published 2011
Eight months after destroying the Death Star, Luke Skywalker faces a crucial decision for the Rebellion. The rebels desperately need a new base, and Governor Ferrouz of Candoras Sector offers sanctuary in exchange for protection against the alien warlord Nuso Esva. Luke travels with Leia, Han, and Chewbacca to assess whether this proposal represents salvation or a trap. Meanwhile, Mara Jade receives orders from the Emperor to eliminate Ferrouz for his treachery and destroy the rebel forces. She heads to Candoras alongside five renegade stormtroopers called the Hand of Judgment. As both sides converge on the sector, layers of deception complicate every move. Ferrouz may not be the ally he appears, and Nuso Esva pursues his own agenda. Luke must navigate this web of competing interests while the Rebellion's future hangs in the balance.
Genres: science-fiction, adventure, space-opera, action
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Candoras Sector
Period: Eight months after destroying the Death Star
357 pages · Hardcover · Del Rey