Specter of the Past (Star Wars - The Hand of Thrawn #1)

Zahn cooked up a great story and made it believable, something some authers of the Star Wars Universe have had trouble doing. And yet, having read several of Zahn's other works, I can't say it's one of his best. Despite its great plot, the cast were just hard to get in to. Worst off however was how the end, it just sort of, well, ended. Up to the end the plot has ammounted to very little. Had it not been for Zahn's amazing writing style my rating would have dropped below three. However, I encourage you to read the book because its sequal poses a definete match for his original series, the Heir to the Empire trilogy, but without the information presented in this book the reader can't enjoy it.
Remember, the Force is with you!

With Specter of the Past, Timothy Zahn returned to the Star Wars Expanded Universe and starting tying a neat little bow around the Bantam Spectra era of the publishing license. Bantam published a wide array of Star Wars stories in the 1990s starting with the superb Heir to the Empire. The majority of Bantam's novels were set in the post-Return of the Jedi era and took a wide variety of directions while still maintaining a reasonably cohesive overall storyline. Just as he kicked off the Star Wars literary renaissance with his Thrawn Trilogy, here Mr. Zahn is afforded the opportunity to provide some closure to this era and set the stage for the new (at the time) publisher Del Rey's gritty New Jedi Order saga.

Despite Grand Admiral Thrawn's apparent demise at the end of The Last Command, his persona haunts this story in a gripping and imaginative way. His mysterious reappearance frightens the New Republic deeply and breathes new life into the dwindling Empire. Beyond that, though, his mentorship of Admiral Pellaeon motivates the Admiral into making a necessary but humiliating decision regarding the future of the Empire's remnants. Pallaeon determines that making peace with the New Republic represents the Empire's only hope for the future. He bravely puts aside his own feelings and ego to lead the way down this bold path.

Concurrent with Pellaeon's plan to surrender is a fascinating storyline centered around the devastation of the planet Caamas decades earlier (an event brought to further light in the second Coruscant Nights book Street of Shadows). This plot could have been ripped from today's contentious and vindictive headlines, as the entire Bothan race takes heat for the actions of an unknown number of individuals years ago. Politicians scramble to benefit from the controversy and across the galaxy numerous petty grievances flare up, using the Caamas debate as an excuse to revisit ancient vendettas.

I relished the use of the Caamas document as a primary plot device. While I enjoy the scheming of evil Sith and Imperial warlords as much as anyone, this was an engaging change from the villain- and superweapon-of-the-week stories found fairly often in the Bantam era. Battle lines are drawn but good and evil are often not clearly delineated, a theme shown on a micro scale by the numerous local conflicts and on a macro one by the overall shift in the New Republic's leadership compared to the spark of benevolence found in Pallaeon's vision for the Empire. Of course, lest anyone think the entire Empire has suddenly changed character, we do get the evil Moff Disra, his co-conspirator Major Tierce, and the actor Flim trying to flare up the minor disagreements in the New Republic's constituencies into the downfall of the galactic government.

Mr. Zahn brings back several favorite/pivotal characters from throughout the Bantam books. Smuggler Talon Karrde returns along with Mara Jade, both still aiding and abetting the New Republic despite trying to keep their distance. Duplicitous-but-not-quite-evil Borsk Fey'lya is back and finds himself the center of an unwelcome spotlight with the resurgence of the Caamas holocaust. There are many minor nods to other stories and Zahn also lifts bits from Star Wars short stories he wrote for the Tales books and other sources.

Specter of the Past is an excellent start to the Hand of Thrawn duology. Strong and accurate characterizations, an intelligent plot, and a rapid pace set a rock-solid foundation for the sequel Vision of the Future.

"Specter of the Past" is the first novel in "The Hand of Thrawn" series approximately ten years following "The Thrawn Trilogy". It continues the tradition of creativity and intrigue from the prior novels.

Timothy Zahn resumes with a struggling New Republic in the aftermath of the battle against Grand Admiral Thrawn. However, strong political developments dominate the storyline, detracting from the strengths of amazing battles that were the groundwork in the first series.

While not as rich in cultural developments, character favorites continue to risk their lives in the conflicts of New Republic versus Empire. In addition, a select few in the Empire pull a fascinating con on the galaxy regarding the fate of Grand Admiral Thrawn.

I recommend this series to any fan of the Star Wars universe.

Thank you

I thought that this book is great even if he used Thrawn again. I mean Thrawn was such an interesting character to begin with, I was almost sad he died at the end of the origanal trilogy. If Zahn wanted to bring him back thats OK with me. And I also liked the way that he had those alien ships popping in at strange times, but never really expained what they were. That left a lot to just be imagined. I think that the book is going to be even better once I read the next one and fully understand all about them and other things. In the end, I think this book is one of the best in the Star Wars universe as of yet.

Timothy Zahn resumes his role as perhaps the most accomplished Star Wars writer after the "Thrawn Trilogy" with the "Hand of Thrawn" series. As the most menacing villain since the Emperor, resurrecting the Thrawn charcter would seem a natural choice. Yet some may find the circumstances of Thrawn's return hand to swallow.

The core characters of the original Star Wars trilogy seem to be adjusting to a sense of peace as the novel begins. But the conflict between the Bothans and the Noghri is revisited at an suspicious time. This sets the plot in motion as the remains of Thrawn's group appear ready to surrender their cause. When Thrawn allegedly makes an appearnce, the peace is sent into a state of jeopardy with the potential Bothan conflict simmering. New members join the New Republic's cause, though somwhat reluctantly. The subplot of Mara Jade and Luke Skywalker also seems underused.

I enjoy Zahn's ventures into the Star Wars series, though I felt this one spent too much time in dialogue. I realize this is necessary to establish the series for the next book. However, the overall product was somewhat dry.

I was very disapointed with Timothy Zahn - I expect much more. The book is well written but would only serve as a great introduction to a novel. In his first trilogy, he has some kind of wrap up to each of the first two books, but the reader knows that more is coming, and needed, to finish the story. I feel like this book introduces the story line and then just stops. It is like reading half of a book and then waiting six months to finish it. I am sure I will get the book, but I will resist the next set of books that are sure to come. I would rather pay double for the complete book than be suckered in for part II.

I thought it was a very good book, (but not as good as the Heir to the Empire series) but there was only one thing that didn't make sense, and I am surprised that no one else has commented on it. Call me niave, but I don't think that people would be so mad at an entire species just for something that a single member of their species did 50 years ago! I am unlike any other human, and would not want to be punished for something that someone did before I was born. But otherwise it was an excellent book, and I can't wait for the sequel to come out.

Specter of the Past is the first in the Hand of Thrawn duology, Timothy Zahn's spectacular return to the Star Wars Universe after his incredible Thrawn Trilogy began the renewed expanded universe. In Specter of the Past, the events of the Corellian Trilogy have forced Princess Leia to take a leave of absence from her post of Chief of State, while Han and Luke along with Chewie are off on a mission of their own. Mara Jade, Lando Calrissian, Talon Karrde and ADmiral Pellaeon feature prominatently as do X-Wing pilots Wedge Antilles and Corran Horn. After countless defeats, the Imperial Navy is ready to call its quits with the New Republic. They send out emissaries to negotatiate a peace with the Republic, but one Imperial Moff with his military attache and a mysterious red-eyed being are determined to gain back the empire. Filled with suspenseful dogfights as well as superb character development, Specter of the Past ensures Zahn's place as teh patriarch of the Star Wars universe.

I loved this book in every aspect but one. Zahn shouldn't have brought back Thrawn (or at least, the threat of Thrawn) because that is the cheapest thing an author can do (if anyone's read R. A. Salvatore's Dark Elf series, then you know what I mean--and I love that series as well). Zahn should have come up with a greater threat than a Thrawn wannabe. Putting that aside, Zahn hasn't lost his touch with the Star Wars characters. They all seem to live and breathe, a far cry from Shadows of the Empire.

This book is the most original, creative and all around best in the Star Wars series since Zahn's first trilogy. As a Star Wars fan I really can't praise Zahn enough. While his fellow star wars authors continue to bore us with more reconstructions of the death star and the many uninspiring missions of rogue squadron, Zahn is the only one taking Star Wars to new levels. The nature of the conflict in this latest book is much more deep, involving and original than anything else so far. Believe me, it is much more than just the "return" of Grand Admiral Thrawn. It explores the conflicts and animosity within the Republic itself, political intrigue and conspiracy, and power struggles within the empire as well. The many subplots and different worlds described in this book help to make the star wars universe more immersive and remind the reader just how big that universe is. Zahn is also the only author who has introduced new characters into the star wars universe that are actually interesting and original(Mara Jade, Talon Karrde, the Noghri and especially Thrawn). But despite all this, Specter is not for all star wars fans. The plot can only be appreciated by the mature reader and there is very little action throughout the entire book. But then again, all the juvenile fans are more likely to be playing the video games and buying the toys than to be reading books. Anyway, Zahn is the greatest and he continues to set the standard for star wars stories. BUT I still have a few gripes(nothing's perfect). First of all, I think that there were too many unnecessary characters that sometimes served as a distraction. Secondly, although Zahn did a great job of portraying the old characters of star wars he failed to take them in any new direction this time around. Third, there could've been more action(at least one lightsaber duel next time PLEEZ!!). And finally, I was disappointed to see that Luke didn't do much of anything this time. Despite all these minor flaws, those who've already read Zahn's first trilogy won't be able to find better star wars reading anywhere else. Hats off to you Mr. Zahn and I hope you continue writing Star Wars.

It was wonderful to read this book. After all those silly stories that the other authors wrote, that had all the same plot, it was nice to read something a little different. Besides, it's great to see Mara and Luke again...I couldn't stand that Callista anymore. Zahn did pretty well in this book, I hope he continues to do just as well on the sequel. Actually, reading only the first trilogy he wrote and ignoring almost all the other books in between you can still understand the whole story. Zahn is the best :)

You want Mara And Luke together?! It would never work! Mara would kill him! Not to mention the fact that there is no way that mara would live at the Jedi acadame.And dont even think about her and Lando. No No No! Mara Jade and Talon Karrd belong together!!!!! I mean look at his reaction when luke told him he had a vision that Mara looked dead in! The man was ready to send his entier fleat of ships after one person! Dose that tell you something? I will admit that Luke dose need a girlfriend BUT NOT MARA!!!

I really liked this book a lot!! The story is good and interesting, and not like this normal SW novel stuff like building another superweapon or so. The reason why I didn't rate this book with five stars is that I am, unlike most SW fans out there, not such a huge fan of Timothy Zahn. I liked his first Thrawn Trilogy but those weren't the best SW novels I've read. And what I didn't like about this book (and also about its sequel, Vision of the Future) was that Zahn writes these books as though no other novels had been printed during the time between his first Thrawn trilogy and this duology. All the characters that he created play mostly big parts in these books, like Thrawn, Pellaeon, the Noghri, Mara Jade, Talon Karrde, and so on. I am sure that Zahn or Thrawn fans are happy about this but other people like me, who love most of the SW novels written by other authours, too, will be a little disappointed since it seems as though nothing really happened in between Zahn's two SW book series. But yet, this book is really a lot of fun to read and I couldn't put it away once I had started to read it. I recommend reading "Specter" and its sequel, too, but I personally think that there are also a lot of cool SW novels out there that were not written by Zahn and do not deal with Grand Admiral Thrawn.

Part I of the two part Hand of Thrawn series (really three parts in two books, since Part II is 694 pages). This book was pretty boring for the first 250 pages or so (out of 386). I was beginning to wonder why in the heck I was still reading Star Wars novels since they were so bad, but the story finally came around in the last third and I found myself actually wanting to read and find out what happens. I guess Zahn was just practicing for a while after his long Star Wars drought (he's the one who wrote the first trilogy of follow-ons.) Anyway, by the last page I was eager to read the second part, so I guess it wasn't so bad after all.

Below is an excerpt of my full review of the Hand of Thrawn duology:

There were a number of problems I had with the books. They moved slow, there was overlapping of separate sub plots in one instance, and resolutions to some of the problems brought up within the book are a stretch to buy. Vision of the Future was 66% longer than Specter of the Past (528 pages vs 352 pages), and far, far longer than it needed to be. Chapter after chapter of many characters travelling to their destination, either in a ship, a cave or building, it just kept going and going for a few minutes worth of action or dialog. There were at least three separate groups of people that were essentially trying to accomplish the same exact goal: find an original copy of the Caamas document to indict the Bothans responsible. One of the three was never even resolved.

Talon Karde searched for the former leader of Karde's smuggling and information group, hoping that he would have a copy of the Caamas document; if there was a chance anyone outside the Empire were to have a copy, it would be him (the how is never established). He does not have it, but he happens to have proof that the resurrected Thrawn is not really Thrawn. Again, how? We never find out, but this bit of information becomes crucial in quelling the advancements of the Empire on the New Republic. Once this is done, peace is made between the New Republic and the Empire, and to ensure that neither one is keeping secrets from the other, Karde's organization becomes an independent third party to validate information and ensure honesty between the two. What's to stop the Empire from not sharing any information with Karde's organization? And then there's the whole issue of the Caamas document. The New Republic is on the brink of civil war over the destruction of a planet that occurred many years prior, but there was no such reaction for the destruction of several other systems. Old grudges were renewed with the excuse being the Caamas document. I had a hard time accepting that thousands of systems would let peace crumbled and war spread over that. The Caamasi were a revered species, but still hard to swallow.

Anyways, the series ended up falling flat for me, not nearly as enjoyable as the Thrawn Trilogy, and I expected more from Zahn. Perhaps I was leaning too much on the hype of Zahn rather and set my expectations too high. It was an okay read. I did not hate it, but I did not love it. Better than previous books, but not among the best.

After so many let downs in the star wars saga, I must say it was nice to see a well-written piece of the story appear (outside of anderson and hambly no one else seems to be able to do much of anything good with star wars). The only problem i have with this novel, and the only reason I gave it an 8 was the fact that zahn puts no suspense in the mind fo the reader with the re-emergence of thrawn. he should've held off on that information til the end of the second book.

I thought that the beginning of this new Zahn trilogy was wonderful. For the Star Wars fan, this book is a "must read." It really sets the stage for the next two books. The characters hold true to their personalities, and the situations Zahn has created are fantastic. The idea of the Empire possibly surrendering to the New Republic is awesome. The possibility of Luke and Mara getting together is great! I just can't wait until the sequel comes out!

This book was _the_ best Star Wars book I've ever read, except for the Heir to the Empire trilogy, of course. Zahn is the only author who has managed to capture the spirit of Star Wars. All the others were just missing something, except for one or two. My copies of his first Star Wars trilogy are the most worn books on my shelf. I love those, and I love his new ones too. He is the best. And he also has a good grasp of the Force as a plot element, better than most. And Thrawn being back is just great! He was the only real opposition the New Republic ever had. And I also think that it was great that Zahn put Rogue Squadron back in action. Wedge just wasn't the general type. Zahn just knows how to write the characters of the Star Wars universe. Talon Karrde, Fey'lya, Mara, Luke, Wedge, they all just seem more true to the movies and their spirit with him. I totally reccommend this book for everyone. It is the best! The absolute best! Before, when anyone asked me who my favorite author was, I'd name two or three people. Now I've realized that Timothy Zahn is the absolute best author I've ever read. He is the king of Star Wars! Vision of the Future, here I come!

Okay, lets put it bluntley....Spectar is the best thing to come out of the Star Wars universe lately since the Rouge Squadron. Timothy Zahn and Stackpole are probably the only two writers that have taken the original star wars universe and made it better. Spectar is a product of that kind of writing. Nothing against the other SW's writers but they havent been able to capture the characters essence and they havent been able to grip a reader as Zahn can. I had almost given up on star wars books until I found out that Zahn was writing this book. This book brought back the characters and the creativity that first attracted me to the Star Wars universe. He has a great sense of plot and storytelling that is so addicting, you dont have to be a Star Wars fan to enjoy the action and drama. He puts thought behind his villians, not just the brute Empire hates Republic storyline that most authors use. I have truley enjoyed this book for the refreshing storyline and character development, nothing like the other star wars books. I recommend it to any fan getting bored of the same old Star Wars plotline. All I can say is When is the sequel?!!!!!!! I cannot wait for more!

This novel is the spectacular return of a great Star Wars series. Timothy Zahn is a master storyteller. From the quick beginning to the end, it is satisfying Star Wars action. This novel is a MUST READ for any fan of Star Wars or even Science Fiction for that matter.
There is one catch, however. Make sure you have "Vision of the Future" handy after you finish this book. After this one ends the other picks right back up, and you don't want to put either one down until the last page is read!

Timothy Zahn has done it again. As ussual he has fed our hunger and wet our apitet for more information on what will happen next, to the New Repubic. The return of the clones, tell me it isn't so, and you will never believe how Timothy brings Grand Admiral Thrawn back to life. The twists and turns of politcal intrigue and galatic manuvering never ceases to amaze this reader. The author has also introduced us to a new caracter near the end of this book as she shows up to offer her services to the New Repubic. A mysterious individual that will no doubt be developed further in future books and reminds this reader of the Jade caracter that has become a staple of Star Wars novels. This being even got past the loyal body gaurds that now surround the Solo family. I believe you will find this book lacking in only one way. It leaves to many unanswered questions at the end. This is of cource just what you would expect of a Zahn book. Always leave them craving for answers. I certainly will be waiting impatiently to see what pops out of the authors head next.

Thrawn, long thought and accepted to be dead has arisen or has he? In this new series Zahn reawakens the fear felt in the senators of the council with the reemergence of the greatest strategist of the Empire. This comes to light in the center of the dealing of an age-old crime committed by the Bothans long before the Alderaan incident. Divided the Alliance is in the grip of losing it all to the rag tag minions of the Empire.

Zahn practically invented the starwars universe after ROTJ with Heir To The Empire (A must read!!!) When I first heard about the Hand of thrawn I couldn't wait to read it. As expected it is magic !!!!! I can't wait to get hold on the sequel. When I read Zahns books I feel the force They are so great they even destroy the possibility of making movies after ROTJ because I think most of you agree that Zahn`s books are equal to the movies in reliability about the starwars universe. When I read I feel ,The dream Luke had in the end gave me the chills, The characters Karrde, Mara Jade, G A Thrawn and Pellaon is the greatest additions to the starwars universe ever since the movies !!!!!! I love the situations Zahn puts the main characters in ! Specially all those hard choses about the ones they care for Anyone agrees ? Mail me if ya wanna
THANK YOU MR ZAHN !!!!!!!
One part of me is waiting for the solution of the greatest most epic story ever (STARWARS) and one part of me wants it to never end
Gotta go Seeya all *S*

I think Timothy Zahn did something that other authors don't, he explore character development in his novels and he also show the novel in dual perspective, those of the evil and those in the good. I suppose that's one reason why his novels require more than one book . Anyway, he is able to go into technical details of the technology in his novels but do not dwelve so deep in details that bore us but instead fascinate us.

I missed the big Wookie, but at least he's not being a deadbeat dad like he often is. :-)
I enjoyed the book, but not as much as the first Thrawn Trilogy. Zahn does a good job at weaving events from all of the Star Wars books into this book, but it just didn't have enough action like his other books. This book really seems like a set up for the one that follows, so perhaps I will enjoy it more in retrospect.
Fans of Zahn's work MUST check out the Conqueror's trilogy! That is truly excellent!

Zahn is back! "Spector" is one of those books you just can't put down--and one that leaves you begging for more! He introduces some great new storylines--the Empire surrendering, Thrawn returning, a new twist on Luke and Mara's relationship, the Bothan intrigue...its all fantastic! Well-written as usual, Zahn proves again he is the master of the Star Wars books. I can't wait for the next one!!

This story contains Zahn's perpetual mastery, which is why it gets 4 stars, but it's very incomplete. The feel of The Hand of Thrawn Duology (Specter, and Vision of the Future) is that Zahn wrote the entire story, and then just found a good place to split it up so it could be two separate books. The ending isn't an ending at all, just the end of another chapter that happens to be the last in the book. However, this does not detract from the fact that it is still Timothy Zahn, and it's still great.

Actually, I think I was assuming that the print would be larger, there would still be as many pages about. That's how it is with differnt size books sometimes. Specifically, the Scriptures. But I simply didn't want to let down if the page number was wrong. An 832 page book will last a lot longer and I really like that. I, of course, did check the the Barnes and Noble description. N.O.Intended.

From the moment I started this book I couldn't put it down. Zahn once again shows he can write the Star Wars Universe like no one else. He handles the multiple story lines so poetically. When I finished this book I was so antsy to get the sequel I could barely contain myself.
Zahn manages to take the characters he has created in his books (as well as those of other authors) and helps them grow. So many twists ans turn, classic Zahn. I didn't think anyone could write anything better then the Zahn trilogy for the Star Wars Universe, but Zahn has outdone himself.

This is one of the best Star Wars books I have ever read. Timothy Zahn is on top form, as ever, and has truly outdone himself this time. All the characters are ALIVE, and it was brilliant to see the return of characters such as Shada, Corran Horn and Mirax, and the way they have developed. I cannot wait to read Vision of the Future when it finally arrives - if I don't go crazy with the delay first!

I think this book could have been much more. The ending left quite a bit to be desired for as the story stops quite abruptly. In terms of the action and pace, this book is typical Zahn. It can be described like a marathon, the pace is fast and it goes on for a while.
Maybe Zahn is a better marketer than I thought since this book left me hunkering for more. This is a great series and the story is built up well.

Timothy Zahn has picked up where he left off with his last Star Wars book, the Last Command! The political intrigue that he threads throughout the series is very detailed. He makes you think that the situations exists in the here and now, instead of in a galaxy far, far, away! Keep up the good work! Look forward to Visions of the Future. Anyone know when it will be released?

Zahn should leaving the Star Wars novels to Kevin J. Anderson. Never has it taken me so long to read a book. Zahn yammers on and on without saying much. Too many strange aliens which never appeared in the trilogy, and not enough of the main characters, espically Luke Skywalker. Too complicated, too many storylines, not enough action, and just plain uninteresting. One of the worst Star Wars novels to date.

Thankfully, this book once again blesses readers with Zahn's excellence. We were reintroduced to the world of Star Wars with his Heir to the Empire Trilogy -- an excellent beginning, and the works that followed his were simply of lesser quality. It's quite refreshing to read a Star Wars tale worthy of the name, the "myth", and the original stories.

Specter of the Past is a great book for all Star Wars readers. It is even better for readers of Timothy Zahn books and Micheal Stackpole books. This book allows you continue the adventures with the characters of The Last Command and a few new ones too. The plot centers around the discovery of a document that shows that the Bothans were reponsible for the destruction of a long cherished world. Unfornutaley the document does not tell which Bothans were reponsible. The members of the New Repbulic have diferent view on the punishment the Bothans will receive. The conflict of ideas creates many small wars between some of the systems in the New Repbulic that threaten to tear the New Repbulic apart. Meanwhile in the Empire a new threat is preparing to strike and a long lost ghost can spell doom for the New Repbulic.

I must admit that i dont like books that last for more than one part...especially when they are hardcover and spread out over the course of an entire year (because then i have to wait). But this one will be worth it. Zahn's greatest strength is that he seems to be as interested in documenting another "Great romp through the Star Wars universe" as he is in doing something that so many other authors neglect in modern books: character development. Zahn's portrayl of all the characters is true to the framework he set out in the Heir to the Empire trilogy...and i for one am very relieved at that! I also happen to like the fact that he is spending more time looking at the imperial perspective as well as the "ground pounder" perspective...not just the people who have the galaxy in the palm of their hand.

Despite those who claim Mara and Luke do not belong together, I always have thought that they do. And Mr. Zahn probably thought the same. Those who have written novels that took place after Zahn's first trilogy couldn't catch his hint on Mara and Luke's relationship. Those two deserve a break after all that they have endured... and since they are two of a kind they deserve to be together. Both Mara and Luke have lost everything they had in the past... and that unites them... they understand each other. Luke doesn't need a housewife, he needs a friend, a companion... and no mather how sympathetic we are to Callista's problems, she is too deep into her own problems...in one word she's boring. Mara's my favourite character ever: she's real and not some mushy goody-good-doer. I even think she deserved to have her own prior history written in the star wars series.

A story that spreads the focus off of one character, giving everyone equal spotlight time though. I am pleased that there is the remote possibility that Luke Skywalker may possibly even have some one for himself now. I can really sympathize with him feeling like an outsider, even in his own family. Hopefully the sequal will give us Visions of the Future.

Once again, Timothy Zhan has my full attention. I unfortunately didn't realize this was a two book set. It isn't written on the cover or back of my paperback. So now..I am stuck waiting for the second half of what has up to this point been a fabulous story! It seems Zhan is aware of the fact that most of his readers are familiar with the star wars world, and wastes little time over-describing a bush from a remote world or the subtle difference between the eylashes of two members of the same alien species. While Character developement is nice, I find that too many of the star wars novels I read spend more time describing little, interesting to know, but unimportant things than giving me the epic action I crave. Not Zhan. If you are like me, buy these books, and the Heir to the Empire series. You won't be dissapointed! =Þ

Awesome. The book left me spellbound, and I can't wait for the next book(s)to come out. I loved every second of it, and for everyone who gave it less than a 8, needs to burn in the eternal, ever burnig flame, of the darkest inferno, of blackest hell. This book was, as they would say in french, Creme ala Creme(best of the best)!

I must admit that i dont like books that last for more than one part...especially when they are hardcover and spread out over the course of an entire year (because then i have to wait). But this one will be worth it. Zahn's greatest strength is that he seems to be as interested in documenting another "Great romp through the Star Wars universe" as he is in doing something that so many other authors neglect in modern books: character development. Zahn's portrayl of all the characters is true to the framework he set out in the Heir to the Empire trilogy...and i for one am very relieved at that! I also happen to like the fact that he is spending more time looking at the imperial perspective as well as the "ground pounder" perspective...not just the people who have the galaxy in the palm of their hand.

Despite those who claim Mara and Luke do not belong together, I always have thought that they do. And Mr. Zahn probably thought the same. Those who have written novels that took place after Zahn's first trilogy couldn't catch his hint on Mara and Luke's relationship. Those two deserve a break after all that they have endured... and since they are two of a kind they deserve to be together. Both Mara and Luke have lost everything they had in the past... and that unites them... they understand each other. Luke doesn't need a housewife, he needs a friend, a companion... and no mather how sympathetic we are to Callista's problems, she is too deep into her own problems...in one word she's boring. Mara's my favourite character ever: she's real and not some mushy goody-good-doer. I even think she deserved to have her own prior history written in the star wars series.

A story that spreads the focus off of one character, giving everyone equal spotlight time though. I am pleased that there is the remote possibility that Luke Skywalker may possibly even have some one for himself now. I can really sympathize with him feeling like an outsider, even in his own family. Hopefully the sequal will give us Visions of the Future.

Once again, Timothy Zhan has my full attention. I unfortunately didn't realize this was a two book set. It isn't written on the cover or back of my paperback. So now..I am stuck waiting for the second half of what has up to this point been a fabulous story! It seems Zhan is aware of the fact that most of his readers are familiar with the star wars world, and wastes little time over-describing a bush from a remote world or the subtle difference between the eylashes of two members of the same alien species. While Character developement is nice, I find that too many of the star wars novels I read spend more time describing little, interesting to know, but unimportant things than giving me the epic action I crave. Not Zhan. If you are like me, buy these books, and the Heir to the Empire series. You won't be dissapointed! =Þ

Awesome. The book left me spellbound, and I can't wait for the next book(s)to come out. I loved every second of it, and for everyone who gave it less than a 8, needs to burn in the eternal, ever burnig flame, of the darkest inferno, of blackest hell. This book was, as they would say in french, Creme ala Creme(best of the best)!

Zahn has proven to me with this book he is still the king. As an avid Star Wars I pick up almost all the books, and this is one to come back to. He has the faithfull retrun of the Karrde oraganazation complete with Jade. Zahn also brings out minor characters like Shada. I am counting the days to the next istallment.

With this book, Timothy Zahn has proved himself the master at continuing the Star Wars saga that has excited so many Star Wars fans. However, I do wish that he had devoted more time to Han, Leia, and Luke instead of spending so much time introducing other characters that only made token appearances in the film. During the process of reading this book, I find myself often scanning ahead just to get a glimpse of the original Star Wars characters. Also, after all the setting up of the conspiracy involving the Bothans and Caamasi, the ending seems a bit of a let down in that Luke, Leia, and Han Solo never did much to solve the crisis and spent much of the time running around in the circle. Ultimately, Talon Kaarde was the one who saved the day with his timely appearance in Vision of the Future.

Spectar of the Past is the best SW book I have read and I have read alot! Zahn does a great job of leaving you wondering what will happen next. He does a good job of incorparating the Force in this book. You learn more about alot of the characters in this. The book makes you feel like you're watching a movie more than reading a book. Of all the books I've read, this is the best. I personnally believe that this book actually makes you think the Imperials might win. Every time the rebels (or New Republic) wins too easily. This completly changes your perspective of the Empire and how pitiful the Rebellion was compared to the Empire during A New Hope.

My first word after finishing this book was WOW. This was such a great book, I couldn't put it down. I t was powerful and moving, definetly one of the best Star Wars books I have ever read. Timothy Zahn is a great author and draws you into the story. I advise all Star Wars fans, READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Star Wars writers like Zahn have the quality and the magic to bring the Star Wars galaxy back to life. His books and magnificent style of writing almost want to make you even forgive Kevin J. Anderson over his many mistake*. Well ... almost.
*1. Destroying the character and integrity of Mara Jade by making her seem two-dimensional and making her have an intrest in Lando (YUUCK!). 2. Darksaber. The Imperial's are not that pathetic, and neither are the Hutts. And puh-lease, like Mara would pay attention to that selfish pig ... er, uh, Callista (she needs a reality check! Luke's too good for her if she can't recognize him as a man instead of some flimsy Force powers).
3. By making the son of Han Solo, Jacen Solo, turn into an utter geek. And for the whole Junior Jedi Knights thing.
Can't wait till Visions of the Future!!!

The Hand of Thrawn series is amazing. This book is great and anybody who reads it will instanly love it. I just finished this book and now reading the sequal of this book Vision of The Future. It wraps up loose ends that other novels leave and will leave you recovering from a blaster set on stun. The greatest Grand Admiral returns to wreak mayhem in the Star Wars galaxy so the New Republic thinks. I recommend this book very much and anyone who reads it will not be disapointed.

I think this books was as good as his previous trilogy with Grand Admiral Thrawn. It has a good plot and pretty exciting (except for a few parts). This book left me hanging so now I'm going crazy until I get the other book (Vision of the Future). Overall, this was another great, great Star Wars book.

I eagerly awaited Zahn's next Star Wars saga novel, and I wasn't disappointed. No other writer captures the spirit, fervor, and zeal of Star Wars as does Zahn. This book will have your hands shaking with anticipation, as you try to finish one page before springing to the next. I hope that other Star Wars writers use Zahn as an example.

Although I have just recently graduated from college (thank the Maker!) I'm not much of a reader. But I've been slowly plodding through all the Star Wars novels. If you really enjoyed the Thrawn trilogy, you'll enjoy these books (although you might be dissappointed at Thrawn's "return"!)
This book is written in Zahn's usual style and does a fairly decent job keeping you interested in each of the character's specific plot contributions. Zahn, following after the movies, does a good job following each of the seperate characters stories and masterfully bringing them together in the next book.

Specter of the Past is a beautifully written book that follows up on his previously written trilogy about Grand Admiral Thrawn. It all starts with Thrawn's reincarnation, while the New Republic slowly breaks up over an issue of Bothan betrayal. If you liked his first trilogy, you'll love this!

An early review of this book would suggest a need for some editing, maybe. It is a lot of setup: lots of political intrigue, several locations scattered throughout the galaxy, characters old and new, and considerable doses of continuity. I think Zahn will pull everything together, having loved the Thrawn trilogy these books follow.

Many have said this book isn't as good as the first three. I agree. It may be better. His first three were masterpeices in their own right. This book shouldn't even be compared. His writing style has changed, but the book continues the Heir to the Empire Trilogy in a way I didn't expect. The only reason I didn't give it a 10 was because it didn't have to complexity that made the first three great. The creativity is great, the writing is superb, and the plot is one that will make you think. The plot is open enough that he has a number of ways he could go and it leaves you guessing what he'll do next.

Timothy Zahn is Great! This is the best book written for the Star Wars universe since The Last Command. I couldn't put this book down, and would read it late at night, even though I had to get up early in the morning. This book is a winner, and a must for all Star Wars Fans.

This book was excellent because of the plot, I thought. Unlike most of the other books, this one did not involve a superweapon of some sort. An old New Republic nemisis returning from the dead - completly new and original. I can't wait for Book 2 of this 2-part set to come out!

After reading Specter, I was reminded of the conflicts in the "new" Soviet Union. All these newly independent nations bringing up old conflicts, no longer fearing the hard-fisted rule of Communism. Now the New Republic faces similar challenges. Zahn brings up the challenging thought; "was the Emperor necessary to keep order in an otherwise chaotic universe?" As we see the Communist return to power, so too many races long for the stability that Imperial forces brought.Zahn addresses current issues with a blend of sci-fi color.

I agree with the reviewer from Ohio in that Specter of the Past is a whole book. In fact, for a while I forgot the book has a sequel and when I read the last page it took me a minute to get over the shock of having to wait to read the rest. Zahn thinks of things in ways no other Star Wars author does. And he gives nothing away as to what will happen in the next book. Many stories can be so predictable but not Zahn's. It's exciting and refreshing to read a book that keeps me guessing.

Zahn is amazing. The guy looks like he's about to out do himself. He's already got the best star wars books out. Now he's writing better ones. If these books don't come out soon I'll explode with anticipation!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I really liked this book. Zahn did a great job leading you along. You couldn't wait to start the second book in the duology A Vision of the Future.Luckily since I didn't get to read it till well after they had both been published I didn't have to wait. This is one of the better Star Wars books out there.

The minute I found out about this book, I bought it and it's sequel-Vision of the Future. I thought the first Timothy Zahn trilogy was an excellent sequel to the Star Wars films. This book continues the story. The character and story development is great. I could not put the book down. I recommend it to any fan of Star Wars. Be sure to get Vision of the Future at the same time, so that you can continue reading. Also be sure to read the first Zahn trilogy, as this continues the story.

If this points to the demise of any future history of the primary SW characters, a better vehicle will be hard to find. My mind picture of the continuing saga is renewed with every chapter.Bravo Mr Zahn.

This was indeed a great book. I like the way the mention of Grand Admiral Thrawn's name strikes fear into the hearts of the New Republic. I have read every book that has come out since the movies ended. My only complaint is that I finished this book about 9 months ago and I am really getting anxious waiting for the second book in this series to come out. Can someone please speed up Mr. Zahn's writing. Does anyone know when the next book is coming out or what the title will be? Please email some info if anyone knows. Thanks.

What makes Timothy Zahn the best is that he keeps Star Wars what it should be: a conflict between good and evil portrayed by the alliance and the empire. The other authors just go off on science fiction tangents that are fun, but Zahn keeps true to Star Wars. He develops Pellaeon's character extremely well. It's fun, intelligent, and involving.

The start of a duology that highlights the relationship between Luke and Mara, and expands upon the outer universe of Star Wars. Combined with the next book it offers a fun tale that revitalizes the fun of the Star Wars movies.

Timothy Zahn captures the Star Wars Universe in a way no other author has ever done it. From the Star Destroyer at the beginning, to the fierce battle at the end. We also see the return of out favorite characters, Mara Jade and Talon Karde, as no one else can write them. The book itself is exciting, and fast paced, a must read for Star Wars fans everywhere!

This book was great. I have been waiting for Zahn to write more in the Star Wars series. I just got this book a few days ago. It's so great, you can't put it down. It's not out in paperback yet, but the hardcover is worth it. All I want to know is what's going to happen next and how does the plot get exposed. Those of you who've read this will know what I'm talking about. Those of you who haven't - read this book!! Keep writing, Mr. Zahn!!

I think this is one of the best Star Wars books ever written. I think I'm going to die reading some of these other reviews. How can these people write these things? I suggest everyone reads this book NOW! And I think it's great that Zahn put Mara and Karrde in it.

Once again Zahn knows how to hook star wars fans into reading his novels. I haven't read the sequel yet, but I am sure that 2 episodes will surely be not enough for the real star wars freaks. Loved Major Tierce, Zahn did a great job of timing this character with Dark Horse's comic about the Royal Guard of the Emperor (Crimson Empire). This book rocks just as hard as his earlier novels did. Please, Tim, write more of these.

is the way I would describe this novel. In fact, it seems to go fast, then slow, then fast, then slow, until about the last 100 or so pages, which just FLY BY! And the way he leaves you hanging going into the second half is masterful! Another Star Wars beauty by Zahn!

If you think the Thrawn Trilogy was the best thing ever written in the expanded Star Wars Universe and if you think Andersen's Jedi Academy is the worst then you'll greatly appreciate the addition of the Hand Of Thrawn series. Zahn truelly makes the universe worth expanding again.

This new book by Timothy Zahn reinforces my belief that he is the best author when it comes to taking us back to the Star Wars universe. I was delighted to see the return of all my old favorites- Han, Leia, Luke, Lando, Mara, Talon-and I liked the way Zahn included characters from other stories. Great job!

As expected from Zahn's previous star wars books this one was fantastic, great to have the old characters back and possibly just as good as the original thrawn trilogy. If you liked his previous books then these are definately worth your while, just a pity the stories can't go on and on.... Definately up there with my favourite star wars reads.

This is an excellent Star Wars book. I loved Zahn's first trilogy. He did an excellent job on that and it's nice to see he continued that in this book. I can't wait until the next one comes out in paperback! It's a great book to keep you busy until the movie gets here!

Timothy Zahn is the best author ever. This is one of his greatest books and the entire "Hand of Thrawn" series is the epitomy of Star Wars literature. Along with the creation of Mara Jade, he has added another facet to the Star Wars universe.

Zahn Strikes Back in this new installment of the Star Wars saga. Brilliantly told plot and well developed characters make this book a thrill to read. He even cameos past characters (i.e. Corran Horn), giving them a more prominent role in the Star Wars universe. Great Novel!!

With this book, Timothy Zahn has proved himself the master at continuing the Star Wars saga that has excited so many Star Wars fans. However, I do wish that he had devoted more time to Han, Leia, and Luke instead of spending so much time introducing other characters that only made token appearances in the film. During the process of reading this book, I find myself often scanning ahead just to get a glimpse of the original Star Wars characters. Also, after all the setting up of the conspiracy involving the Bothans and Caamasi, the ending seems a bit of a let down in that Luke, Leia, and Han Solo never did much to solve the crisis and spent much of the time running around in the circle. Ultimately, Talon Kaarde was the one who saved the day with his timely appearance in Vision of the Future.

THIS BOOK IS AGREAT SEQUEL TO THE OTHER TIMOTHY ZHAN'S ,STARWARS , BOOKS.I THINK THAT THE AUTHOR AS MANAGED TO CAPTURE THE TRUE SPIRIT OF THE STARWARS SERIES, AND AS MANAGED TO KEEP ALIVE ,AND WELL ,A STORY I THOUGHT IT WOULD DIE AFTER IS TRILOGY.IN THIS SEQUEL THE STORY IS MORE HEART PUMPING THE THE HEIR TO THE EMPIRE TRILOGY , BECAUSE THIS BOOKS STORY IS THE MORE PROBABLE SEQUEL TO IS TRILOGY BECAUSE THE EVENTS PORTRATED IN THE BOOK ARE WHAT COULD HAPPEN AND IS A FOLLOW UP OF THE WAR BETWEN THE REBELLION AND THE EMPIRE WHICH IS WHAT REALY MATTERS TO THE STARWARS FANS . IF YOU LOVE STARWARS AND WAN'T TO SEE WHAT'S NEXT IN THIS EPIC STORY YOU CAN'T LOOSE THIS BOOK ,IT'S PURE STARWARS MAGIC!!!

Congratulations on another excellent book! Like the rest of Zahn's work, this kept me on the edge of my seat! In agreement with other readers, I think his books would be incredible on the big screen. Only one question- in the book, It said Leia was not the President/chief of state- when did THAT happen?? If anyone knows, please write me, and let me know where in the timeline it is supposed to be. Other than that, great book!!

Timothy Zahn has once again managed to capture the elegence and excitment of Star Wars. Not something that has been occuring of late in the Star Wars Universe. Zahn's Excellent writing has once again outdone all the other books I have read. WAY TO GO ZAHN! I can't wait for the new book to come out.

Specter of the Past could be the best book ever if Zahn follows up with a good sequel. I liked his Grand Admiral Thrawn trilogy, and this is almost as good. I've always liked Captain(or Admiral or Vice Admiral)Pellaeon. I especially liked that Moff that is getting into the Special Files.

This is one of the best Star Wars books yet!! I just bought specter yesterday, and I've already finished it! The only problem for me is: living in Iceland is the worst thing ever for an all-time starwars fan. The only store that sells StarWars novels around here had 1 copy of Specter (that's mine now) and 0 COPIES OF VISION!!! Can you believe my luck? But, back to the book. My book rating system on the store works like this: 2 stars for having Star Wars on the cover, one for plot, one for characters and one for writing style. I LOVED specter!!! For the ones of you who haven't read it yet, I wo't give any secrets away, but here is (probably) my favorite couple of lines:
And abruptly his comlink twittered. He thumbed it on-"Artoo?"
"Not quite" a familiar voice answered dryly. "Are you in trouble again, Skywalker?"
Luke blinked with surprise, then smiled with the first genuine pleasure he'd felt since arriving at this place. "Of course I an," he told Mara Jade. "Have you ever known me when I wasn't?"
This book includes all of my fav. characters, brings back the best villain ever and has a xtremely interesting plot. My only problem is that it says on the back cover...Meanwhile, Luke teams up with Mara Jade...But he doesn't actually team up with her in this book, just goes looking for her.
Scuttle out to the bookstore, my faithful Star Wars bookworm fan, and May The Force be with You, alway....

This is an exellent opening for a new era in star wars books. It has started to look at the relationship between mara jade and luke as well as letting us see other charters out of the past star wars books. This is a book you need to read.

I purchased this book because it said good quality... It was ok, but it looked like it had been dropped in the tollet. It has a lot of water damage and the book has a ripple affect. I am giving it a 3 star because I can still read the book and so far the story is good.

"Specter of the past" is set fourteen years after the battle of Endor. Timothy Zahn, the famous author of the Thrawn trilogy- Heir to the Empire, Dark Force Rising and the Last Command, has again brought up Gilad Pallaeon- now the supreme commander of the Imperial fleet. It potrays the memories we have about the trilogy. In this book, Pellaeon will urge the Moffs to surrender and end the long civil war between the New Republic(once the rebellion) and the Empire.
Pellaeon knows that the Empire is at the brink of total collapse and is trying to salvage the remaining fleet and star systems. However, Moff Disra- a loyalist has contacted a con artist- Flim and with the help of Captain Tierce tries to stop Pellaeon from acheving that purpose.
Flim, now "Thrawn", is a rallying point for the Imperials and Zahn manages to bring back the battle tactis and genuiness of the dead Thrawn.
He also allow an issue that may cause the New Republic to crumble under a bloodbath of genocide and civil war. He pieces together these two and also allows Mara Jade and Luke Skywalker to team up again.
It is really a reunion of old events and memories and the new ones manages to fit into the whole picture smoothly like a Jig-Saw puzzle. Once completed,it is an excellent piece of work.

Star Wars writers like Zahn have the quality and the magic to bring the Star Wars galaxy back to life. His books and magnificent style of writing almost want to make you even forgive Kevin J. Anderson over his many mistake*. Well ... almost.
*1. Destroying the character and integrity of Mara Jade by making her seem two-dimensional and making her have an intrest in Lando (YUUCK!). 2. Darksaber. The Imperial's are not that pathetic, and neither are the Hutts. And puh-lease, like Mara would pay attention to that selfish pig ... er, uh, Callista (she needs a reality check! Luke's too good for her if she can't recognize him as a man instead of some flimsy Force powers).
3. By making the son of Han Solo, Jacen Solo, turn into an utter geek. And for the whole Junior Jedi Knights thing.
Can't wait till Visions of the Future!!!

The only reason I'm giving this book a "5" and not a "4" or "3" (which was what I originally intended) is because I'm in a good mood. And it is Timothy Zahn, after all. Talk about the Emperor's New Clothes (no pun intended). Anyone who doesn't realize this comes nowhere close to the original "Heir to the Empire" trilogy is deluding him- or herself.
Friends, the problem with writing a story about Star Wars that takes place after "Return of the Jedi" is that you can't have anything TOO radical happening to the characters. God forbid we should alter the Holy Trinity of Han, Luke and Leia. No death of Lando Calrissian, for example, no matter how much I'd like to see that.
So we see the same tired plots rehashed again and again. The Empire rises...again. Who is it this time? A moff? A Star Destroyer captain? Oh please. Same old soup, just warmed up.
And it looks like Zahn is falling into this trap. This reads nothing like his previous work and I was extremely disappointed.
I'm not a big fan of Talon Kardde or Mara Jade, either. I cringe every time I see Kardde's name. "Wild Kardde". Ha ha. Yeah, we get it. It wasn't funny the first time.
Give us something new, Star Wars writers, or don't give us anything at all.
Like Harlan Ellison once said about another book, "Specter of the Past" is good moose dung pie. It's Zahn, so it's decent, but who wants moose dung pie?
P.S. Now that Bantam has decided all Star Wars books are to be inter-related, I didn't appreciate Zahn's taunt of Michael Kube McDowell's "Black Fleet Crisis" trilogy. (Now THERE was a series.) His characters kept calling it "The useless Quella incident..." Jealous, Mr. Zahn? I think you could have learned a thing or two.

Just finished this book and loved it! I'm 45, and while I've been a Star Wars fan since the original movie came out in 1974, I've never read any of the books...mostly because I didn't read much of anything there for years. Oh, I did read Splinter of the Mind's eye in Jr. High, I guess. Anyway, when I heard the next trilogy of movies was coming out, I decided I should read some of the "after the movies" stuff. I didn't know where to start, but many folks seemed to like Timothy Zahn, so I started with the Thrawn Trilogy and loved it, so the Hand of Thrawn was a logical next step.

I have really enjoyed all these books. Zahn is a very good writer and I was very entertained by both of these series. They read quite easily and he has a nice balance between action and character development and includes a nice sense of descriptiveness without being too detailed. I just checked out Survivor's Quest from the library and plan to read the rest of Zahn's Star Wars novels, then we'll see where I go from there!