Star Wars: The New Jedi Order - Traitor

If NJO continues down this road...I'll never ever stop reading these books. The exploration and exploitation of Jacen was phenomenal. It took awhile to get rid of his whinyness, but it's a good thing. The philisophical side of the book has forced me to read it several times already. Things will never be the same in the Jedi Universe. I have to agree with most other reviewers that the series slowed down too much in the middle books but has come back at light speed to keep us all interested. Vergere has been the key since Cloak of Deception, a good tie in. A must buy for any Star Wars fan!

This book focuses mainly on Jacen Solo & his strange "care taker" Vergere.After being captured by the Yuuzan Vong, Jacen is in a period of mourning over the death of Anakin Solo.Vergere is actually trying to turn Jacen the Vong cause.You will learn a bit about Vergere in this book [and her cruelties ].But Jacen escapes the clutches of the Yuuzan Vong and escapes to the ruined world Coruscant. There he has many travels [including when he stops at the old Solo apartments].This book is very exiting and interesting. It also has a good ending. I recommend it to all Star Wars fans.

The New Jedi Order has highs and lows but Traitor is a zenith - with suspenseful plots and subplots and the cleverly ambiguous title; there are many twists and turns all the while enhance Jacen, Nom Anor and Vergere's characters consistently and deliciously.
If you enjoyed the beginning of the series but got lost somewhere in the middle this will refresh and reinvigorate your interest. If you'd enjoyed them all then you'll be especially well rewarded with this story.
Its hard to praise it more without giving away more of the story but with Jacen in question the drama is intense and
the final scene very satisfying.

I found this book!!! BOOKSTORE!!!. At first glance it looked like a cheap knock-off: under the guise. I was captivated by the author. Han explains how as a child they were to him in Greek, and much in the English he heard- so this book is. Way to communicate them as comprehensive and story-like as possible. He succeed on levels!!!
I have read many English. Texts, and this one has excellent flow that is acheived? Mere, translation. This book "helped" me. Learn about better than any other, in the sense that the stories are presented in a MEMORABLE!!! Now I can read other texts. Real sense! of knowing who everyone is.
The book is quick, decapitating read, could be done in days. I thank the author!!! YES! He's outstanding job. He has acheived a book. Which compliments the myths of the Greeks? Other translations can compliment this book...

This book has a much more pensive air than the others of this series. That doesn't mean that the novel is without action, but in general the pace is more relaxed. Except relaxed isn't really the appropriate word.
The beginning of the book consists largely of Jacen being tortured and, during his brief respites, conversing with the enigmatic Vergere, whose allegiance is finally revealed in the end of the novel. These conversations are largely theological and based on the nature of the Force. It's heady stuff, and the highbrow narrative style doesn't help matters. I, however, really liked the new ideas of the Force put forth by Vergere. Both characters seem to switch sides multiple times, with first Vergere, then Jacen, then Vergere again seeming to fall in with the Vong.
And then there's Ganner Rhysode. Ganner is where the action comes in. I never liked the man; he was arrogant and vain, and I just hated him. But after this novel, he's one of my favorite Expanded Universe characters. And Vergere's "vision" at the end...wow.
I'm not entirely certain I like who Jacen has become (he's like a cross between Neo and Simon Bolivar), but I think I can adjust to his new persona. One thing is certain: he's not a child anymore.

This is my favorite book in the New Jedi Order series. Stover is such a great writer; his prose flows really well. This book is all about Jacen and what happens when he's captured by the Yuuzhan Vong. It is really interesting to read about the Embrace of Pain, and learn a little more Yuuzhan Vong backstory. The exchanges between Vergere and Jacen are captivating and compulsively readable, especially when they talk about the nature of the force. Just a great read.

The whiny, over-thinking Jacen is dead. I was a little wary of this book because I usually hate Jacen, but the Embrace of Pain really straightened him out.
Vergere could kick all the Jedi's butts. As the other reviews said, this book is much different from the previous ones in the series - not even one of those predictable X-Wing battles!
I think the best part of the book was Vergere's explanation of the Dark Side. In reading the series, you definitely do not want to skip this book. This is one of the few books I would consider rereading.

You know, I've read countless reviews for the other NJO books and a lot of people are constantly complaining about how Jacen is too whiny and they're sick of him and his wishy-washy views. Here we have a book that gives us an awesome glimpse at Jacen's development, but also puts him in a place where he is no longer wishy-washy, and a lot of you still complain. I guess there is no pleasing some of you. I thought this was an awesome book. It gives a wonderful glimpse into the mind of Jacen and allows him to develop in a very different and dramatic way than other characters. If you are looking for space battles and stuff like that, this is not the book for you. This story is a character drama. It is designed to demonstrate and develop a character. I admit, I was disappointed about the death of a character in this book but war has casualties. Something that I see many readers of the NJO have a hard time accepting. This book is well-written, intriguing and a worthy member of an excellent series.

This was a very different type of story for me. It made me think and ask questions about what Jacen and I thought of as truth and ourselves. The NJO is a very strong dark series and I feel that Traitor is going to be very pivitol in the next books. In a world that has good and evil, right and wrong Traitor brings a new look into the thoughts of the Force and ourselves. I highly reccommend Traitor to be read with the understanding that it is slow in some parts. And I'm very interested on what the future holds for Vergere and Jacen Solo.

"Traitor" is a thought provoking novel that is deviant from the rest of the series in terms of pace and content. It is an easy read, with not as many scenes of action as other books in the series. If you do not care about Jacen, do not read this book.
After reading the back, and the surprisingly short list of characters at the beggining, it's obvious that most of the novel will be about the development of Jacen. The book concentrates on Jacen's journey through "the lands of the dead", led by the very strange creature Vergere (Jacen's Virgil), during his captivity by the Yuuzhan Vong. The book is fairly reminiscent of "Conquest" in pace, and "Dark Journey" in character development. Once again, if you don't care about Jacen, don't read this book.
The book is exchanges action for very deep character development. There isn't as much action as in other Star Wars books. The actions scenes that are in the book, while fairly thrilling to read, come off as mere plot devices to change Jacen.
Stover's novel is very ambitious, subtly hinting a parallel to Dante's Inferno. Stover speaks in an eloquent language, occasionally waxing into prose that could be considered poetry. While sometimes this enhances the story, at certain points this deeply ambiguous, metaphysical narration seems too grandiose for the novel. After reading the novel again, it seems that the story was built around the philosophy presented, instead of vice versa.
One thing that bothers me is the 3rd part of the book, where Ganner is introduced. I find him to be somewhat out of character, weakened to flesh out the plot. Additionally Stover's quality of writing seems to drift off as he tries to assume Ganner's thoughts. Ganner's "None Shall Pass" line made me roll my eyes, and the choice of words throughout this section is indicative of the fantasy genre, and a couple words-that-don't-exist-in-the-star-wars-universe appear.
Ironically "Traitor" would stand stronger independent of the Star Wars series. The majority is very well written, however it does not give the flavor usually associated with Star Wars Books. It is not necessary to read and no fan would get lost if they skipped to Destiny's Way. While I personally enjoyed it, the lack of action and the dominating philosophical language may turn some fans off.

I found this book to be a difficult read. I know that others have mentioned that this book was well-written, but I disagree. The writing style was original and interesting, but not that well executed. The start of each chapter, I was thrown into a unknown place and had no idea what was going on. Eventually, more and more is revealed until I'm back with the story and getting interested. Then the chapter ends and I start all over.
The storyline is very imaginative and interesting. It has a more psychological tone to it, although there is also action. I like that Jacen was able to withstand the brainwashing, re-examine his understanding of the force, and put his own spin on things. In the end, he surprises his captors and his mentor, laying the groundwork for some interesting stories later in the series.

Probably the most phenomanal Star Wars book I've ever read that wasn't written by Timothy Zahn. It was absolutely one of the best ever. That's how it will go down in history. I saw an earlier review saying it was too much on "meditation and philosphy." How stupid are you? That's the idea of the whole book! If you are too immature to understand that it's your fault! As it is this book was absolutely incredible. I reccomend this to ANYONE. And I especially recommend it to the NJO fans.
Traitor just adds more and more to this great series and, with the help of Alston's Duology, has saved the series.

Though many would not agree with me, Jacen Solo is one of my favorite characters from this series. Taking that into account, I looked forward to this book from the time I found out who was the main character and let me say this: I was not disappointed. This book lived up to everything I though it would and more. I barely put it down, finishing it in no time at all.
Before this book, Jacen could be considered a bit of a wimp as far as Jedi goes. He didn't use his powers and questioned everything about his life and his beliefs. However, when this book started, I knew that was all left behind. Yes, he did do some questioning, but at least he got his answers. And Vergere was there to help him along. She was a cruel little avian creature and did horrible things to Jacen, but she made him learn and she was exactly the kind of teacher he needed to get his life on track.
Despite my love for this book, I was disappointed by the whole Ganner situation. He was another one of my favorite characters from the time he first showed up until even now after I have finished the book. And (spoiler) I did not want to see his life end. In other words, I didn't like the fact that he died. However, going back on my words, his death scene was by far the best I have read thus far in the series and in many other books outside the SW universe. His "decline" was interesting as well and, though he made a complete turn around from his original arrogant self, the old Ganner could still be seen ("At least I look good"). Go Ganner.
All in all, this was the BEST NJO book so far and definitly worth the read. In fact, I would even read it again.

Jacen Solo is captured and being held prisoner and must escape. As he tries he goes through a amazing journey in which he must find himself in order to escape. This book unlike others before it brings up some valid points on the nature of the force and of the light and dark sides. This is a very different novel from others but is worth the read it is one of my favorites.

While I've not read all of the installments in the NJO series, I'm quite familiar with most of them, which by all standards are quite excellent! However, not one of them comes even close, in my opinion, to Matthew Stover's endlessly clever and inventive novel, which I expended much energy in resisting to read in one sitting.
Stover seems to take it upon himself to layout a new stylish approach to the New Jedi Order series, and pulls it off magnificantly with Traitor. Within the first couple pages of this book, he takes you into the Star Wars Universe via his as-of-yet unrivaled descriptive writing. He then goes on to capture each of the characters' personalities and present the reader with a depth not seen in a Star Wars book before. Twisting an awsome psychological exploration into a philosophical back-drop, Stover tops it all off with an outstanding plot that seems to describe so many of its predecessors.
Quite plainly, what he did with Jacen was amazing; what he did with Vergere was beyond all expectations. This book is Amazing!

This review focuses in ganer although I came late to the series I caught up fast but still. Have not read Destinys Way.The book had a gloomy personality to it and really should have focused some on Leia and Luke. But abave all I am a huge fan of Ganer and near the end af the book at his last stand was a heroic thing to do.but I hated as a fan of Ganer. But the part with Verges Vsion and the line "None Shall Pass" engraved in stone was cool so that I why I give tis book three Stars. but it is a real cool book.I am not realy 12 I am 13

Unexpectedly this was one of my favorite books in the New Jedi Order series. At first I was expecting it to be boring and pretty much all be about Jacen and his questioning the force. I had never really liked Jacen to begin with and a whole book on him and philosiphy appealed to me like reading the dictonary...but I decided to give it a shot anyways.
Now I must say how wrong my initial impression was. The storyline ended up to be very deep and went into a great detail on pains and suffering. It gave us a better insight on the Vong then we had had before. It also had great chacater development with Jacen Solo and by the end of the book he became one of my favorite characters. I loved how I never knew what to expect with Vergere. Her questions and riddles gave me headaches at times but when she partially revealed herself I was happy with the results. I was also happy that they didn't turn Jacen into the warrior we know he's not.
Ganner was another great part of the book and although I was upset that he died, I loved how he died a hero and that the Vong will now grow to fear and pass around the story of "The Ganner".

First off, I would suggest reading all or at least some of the books coming in the New Jedi Order series before you read this one.
Traitor, in my opinion, could not have been better. It was written wonderfully and it flowed at just the right pace that you can keep up with what's going on but you also can't put it down.
This book keeps you guessing until the very end and just when you think you've figured it out, everything gets turned upside down again.
One of my favorite things in Traitor was the characters and how they were developed. I have to say that Mathew Stover did a wonderful job with characterization in this book.
This book also is different from all the other books in the New Jedi Order series in that it is almost souly from the perspective of one person. And where the other books normally take some time for the plot to develope, Traitor throws you right into the intense drama that makes this book so great.
And the title of the book, Traitor, I think has a great deal to do with the book because it is about being betrayed and betraying from multiple angles and by and to multiple characters. You'll understand when you read it.
For all of these reasons, I loved Traitor and wish now that I could read it again for the first time.

I really don't know what to say about such an incredible piece of literature, except that it is perhaps the greatest character journey ever written in Star Wars novels. Though this is just one book, and not very long (at only 290 pages), Traitor gives the reader a truly epic story, something reminiscant of the Star Wars novel trilogies of old. I truly believe that anyone can enjoy this book, even if they haven't read any of the New Jedi Order series. Traitor is an absolutely wonderful philosophical study of the Force and those who weild it, while still keeping the Star Wars action rolling right along. Thank you Matthew Stover for bringing the New Jedi Order out of the dark ages created by Troy Denning and Elaine Cunningham. (P.S.: If there are any of you out there who are currently reading Star by Star or choking through Dark Journey, don't loose hope, the next few are actually good.)

This book was, in my opinion, the best NJO book so far. For the non-StarWars fan, that's the New Jedi Order series, the latest in the Star Wars Universe.

Jacen Solo is the main character in the book, and Veregre playes probably her biggest role yet, but aside from that there are very few characters represented in the book. Those in the book are portrayed excellently though.

For the readers that like action, this book is only for the patient reader. You will not find giant battles either in space or with Jedi flashing lightsabers. The action is there, but what action there is focuses on the philosophy of it. That brings me to the main point of the book. Jedi philosophy takes a hit, and Jacen re-invents himself.

The book focuses on the training of Jacen by Veregre and Jacen's growth from a child into a man. The book is written with a purpose and is one of the few Star Wars books I could call literature. It was truely written with the flow and form that rivals some of the best novels I've ever read. When I read the book i was reminded when I was taught exactly how to write in my English classes. Through all this though, I believe the book is written in such a way that less advanced readers would enjoy it too. It is not like "Animal Farm" for instance, as Animal Farm's true point is difficult for the young reader to grasp. The plot of the book is easy to grasp, but the way it was written was what made it rise above many other books I've read.

I recommend this book to everyone that has an interest in fiction, young or old.

I've read this several times, and it's been one of my favorite books since the second time I read it (the first time I was really young and didn't understand it). I came here to see what others thought of it, and had to share my rating. If you are a Star Wars fan, read it. If you aren't a Star Wars fan but want to understand and experience the hype, check out the Caine Series by Stover, that speaks to many similar ideas and is as good or better than this. You won't regret it!!

As a few have already said, I've always been a Jacen fan who has felt he was unfairly treated, both by the other authors and by the characters that think they "know" him. In this book, however, he is done justice beyond my wildest dreams.
It is not a book everyone will like. But it is not a book anyone will be apathetic about. It will be loved or hated passionately. There is a lot of time with Jacen and Veregre interacting during his hellish horrific coming of age journey. He faces questions he's been tortured with since he was a boy, during his literal torture and "training" under Veregre while imprisoned by the Vong, and the answers are often much more painful than the questions. Not only his but the readers's questions are desperately needing answers: Who ARE they, Vergere and Jacen? Good? Evil? Strong? Dying? Insane? Powerful? Dead? The reader feels every bit as uncomfortable as Jacen during his "shaping"; this book is not a passive read; nor is it light. It's like the scene with Luke in Dagobah for a huge chunk of the book, not just one scene. Any who call the philosophy "boring" have no sense of empathy; every question and every answer jar the reader every bit as much as Jacen during his imprisonment. But they are very very important in the answers that eventually come, and in the ways he uses those answers in his subsequent actions.
It is unusual as a Star Wars novel because there are few characters to jump between. It's also a change from the non-stop action like the "space cowboys" typical starwars novels; so this is not a typical NJO (nor Star Wars in general) novel. However, the characters that are there are three dimensional and wonderfully well fleshed out; Vergere is every bit the equal of Jacen in the interest factor; they are awesome opposite each other in a verbal and physical dance of dark and light; point and counterpoint. The interaction, growth and dialogue between the few main characters in general is passionate, ironic and interesting, (and even occasionally cheer producing), the questioning and "training" done in a way that still sucks the reader into the scene and the journey through the dark maze of his mind, and the real overt action, when it does come (throughout the book in occasional doses- in spite of this books' reputation of being "philosophy only"), will completely blow most readers away.
People can love him or hate him after this book, but they WILL respect the fact Jacen very probably is the only one in the entire galaxy who could have withstood that kind of "testing" and not only survived, but had the makings of flourishing under it. No longer whiny, whimpering, self doubting or angst ridden. He is developing into who he will become (and without giving too much away; who he's becoming is one of the strongest, most powerful characters I've ever read, in any series, even though you're never fully sure of him and what "side" he's on or whether he's sane or not. Whether or not one likes this style of book, it will feature into future NJO books heavily, (and I'm hoping Star Wars in general) so unless they've decided to stop reading the series altogether, it's a must read for any who want to keep following the storyline. This book just changed the course of the series, the Jedi, the Solos, New Republic, all force perceptions. 180 degrees. Very much for the better too, in my opinion.
But if they decided to end the series here and now? This book's strong enough to stand alone as the final piece. Ten stars and much kudos to the author for one amazingly written, moving, vivid, character driven book. Far and away my favorite of the series. And kudos to Jacen for becoming not only a fully developed character, but a man. And wow, what a man. It's about time.

I've read practically every book in the Star Wars series and all books of the NJO. In my opinion, Traitor was by far the best in plot as well as the best written book yet! We see and almost experience Jason becoming a man (not the "whiny boy" we were getting use to) and learn far more about the force than ever. Vergere's character is explored more as well and though it's hard to determine if I like her, she's still very interesting. This book is hard to put down!

So this book is yet again another thriller. The yuzhaan vong is still running around terraforming and ruining the lives of literally trillions. one small defeat though and jacen solo is still alive. The book is a must buy and is a great book to read before you get the Legacy of the Force series.

I have to admit: I read a lot of licensed fiction. I've got a BA in English so I "should" be reading "real" novels. Most of the time I just read licensed fiction because I love the shows or movies so much I want to immerse myself in the various universes. I don't expect much from these novels, just a tight, exciting plot and consistent chracterization. The New Jedi Order series has met these expectation. However, "Traitor" far exceeded any expectations I've EVER had for this type of novel. It challenged me in so many ways: emotionally, spiritually, mentally. I know this is a strange comparison, but this novel challenged me in the same ways as The Autobiography of Malcolm X did when I first read it in my freshman year of high school. It was that GOOD. This novel belongs on the same shelf as my copies of The Godfather, Dune, Lord of the Rings, Autobiography of Malcolm X, The Collected Stories of EA Poe, 2001, The Left Hand of Darkness, The Hero with a Thousand Faces, The Odyssey, etc. I would not be in the least bit ashamed to lend this book to a friend and tell him/her "to prepare for a great read."

A pretty awesome book. The story is first person omnipotent. The other star wars stories were not and it seemed luike their was more than one story in that same book. But later all the stories tied together and then made sense. This book you understood the whole time. This is more of a adventure than a mystery even though it is a science fiction book. Matt stover did an awesome job putting so much information in this book in a little amount of pages. The story was not emotional at all but at some parts you laughed and then just never want to put the book down.

Traitor is no ordinary Star Wars book. It could, in all seriousness, be considered a great peice of literature, regardless of the fact that it deals with the nature of a non-existent 'force'.

As a huge fan of the Solo Twins I wasn't sure I'd like a book centered around Jacen and his apparent anti-war beliefs, but Stover brought in so much insight through the creature Vergere that you actually begin to side with Jacen. Vergere was writtin beautifully, colorfully, and very bold. Her contrasting dialogue intrigues you and captures you. "Everything I tell you is a lie," what a great line!!! Her views on the force are slipped in so purposefull that the reader can't help but believe that she is telling the complete and total truth.

You don't have to be a fan of the New Jedi Order, the Expanded Universe, or even Star Wars to enjoy this book. For all literature and philosophy fans, it'll make a great discussion book.

I was introduced to Star War novels by my son two years ago. Since then I have read practically all of them. Starting from Thrawn series to the birth of Ben. All through this Jacen was considered by many a cry baby ... but if one thinks about it, he is the one who saves his Mom from Tsavong La, killed the Voxyn queen, has put up fierce fights with Yuzan Vongs, yet always checked his actions. Finally Mat. Stover has brought him into focus (something I always felt Jacen's char. deserved)so sharply that it will be difficult to weaken again. When I first started reading this book, I thought this can't be. What is going on. The style has changed. No more routine attacks, repeatedly stupid 'tricks'and brainless jumps from one place to another.
This book has an incredible plot, strange twists and most unexpected turns. A new twist to the Force. Few names to remember and yet so gripping. I read this book in one sitting. The only thing better would be to see Jacen unite with others and become a Jedi Master.

In a universe filled with an abundance of unrealistic and unnecessary combat comes a book that focuses more on the other potentials dwelling beneath the complex being that is JEDI. Finally the reader gets a break from Jaina's circus plane tricks, from the falcons ability to take out ANY vong military vessel, from Luke complaining about not knowing what to do, from dumb plot add ins like Lord Nyax and FINALLY or hopefully I should say, Nom Anor is taken out of his joke of a role as Vong Executor.

Philosophy. One of the key componets of a Jedi's persona is integrated into this plot. The implication of this aspect to the NJO series was absolutely vital to the integrity of the Jedi as well as the previous authors.

I give Stover two thumbs up. He didn't waste time rambling on with a twelve page lightsaber fight or a six chapter Starship battle or try to combine seven different plots featuring thirty different characters. Instead, he philosiphizes, and as you read on, you philosiphize along with the book. Vergere turns out to be one of the most interesting characters in NJO, however, a good one is lost.

Ok, so I am a Star Wars fan to the bone. I also LOVE the New Jedi Order series. This book however, while being a slow start, ended quite nicely. The first few chapters of the book made me want to skip ahead. Not much more then Stover waxing philosophical about several things that deal with both the Star Wars universe, and our own.
After that though the book did pick up, getting more to the Star Wars action I know and love. Stover still threw in his philosophy throughout the book, but it added a nice touch to it.
Being a huge fan of the Jedi in particular (my favorite part of the Star Wars universe), the best part of the book to me was Ganner Rhysodes battle with the Vong warriors. It brings to mind Anakin Skywalkers death scene in Star by Star.
Overall I rate this book a three. While it had it's great action moments, and while philosophy is NEVER a bad thing, too much of it can bog the book down and make it boring. Other then that, a great read.

After the capture of Coruscant, the mighty heart of the New Republic, a stunned galaxy fears that nothing can stop the Yuuzhan Vong. Still, that crushing defeat produces one small miracle: Jacen Solo is alive. Yet he can scarcely imagine himself in stranger circumstances.
The young Jedi Knight is in the care of Vergere, a fascinating creature of mystery and power, her intentions hard to fathom, her cruelties rarely concealed. But this master of inscrutable arts has much to teach the young Jedi...for she holds the key to a new way to experience the force, to take it to another level--dangerous, dazzling, perhaps deadly.
In the wrong hands, the tremendous energies of the force can be devastating. And there are others watching Jacen's progress closely, waiting patiently for the moment when he will be ready for their own dire purposes. Now, all is in shadows. Yet whatever happens, whether Jacen's newfound mastery unleashes light or darkness, he will never be the same Jedi again...
This book was pretty confusing at the beginning but came together perfectly in the most unexpected way. A great book, and it contains a sneak preview of the next book Destiny's Way.

For those of you that were losing faith in this series, READ THIS BOOK! If you put the book down before you've read it all, I'd be shocked. An EXCELLENT story told beautifully! Matthew Stover should be proud of his contribution to the series. This book has re-energized my interest in the NJO series, and I bet it will for you, too!
One piece of advice -- AVOID ALL SPOILERS! Let this book surprise you. You won't regret it!

This book does not have the sort of action of the fighting kind. It is filled with not-quite-Jedi-but-definitely-force-user philosophy! I have wondered much about how the Yuuzahn Vong could not be felt through the force, and this book shows how that is possible through Jacen Solo, who slowly, finally breaks away from 'Uncle Luke's' shadow. Jacen has always held his own opinions, and he is forced into making some very new revelations about the force. This book is the sort of thought filled book that I have been looking forward too. Besides, what New Jedi Order fan can't be pleased to finally find out what happened to Jacen?

The first thing I want to say about this book is that it was really nice to see an objective look at the Force. One of the previous editorals said that this author knew nothing about the SW universe and that his understanding was based on the role playing games. Well the Force is very intensively looked at in this book and its role in the Jedi's life. I like the take the Vegere puts on this and totally turns upside down what everyone has always believed in the Force. I think everyone takes it for granted that Yoda was the end all know all of the Force. Now we see there was others that had knowledge and wisdoms that even Yoda missed. Seeing others at Yoda's level from that time (hense the Anakin Skywalker comment) is really cool to bring the continuity thing to the forefront. Overall this a great book about a young Jedi (or not a Jedi) development and enlightenment into his place in the Force.

I really enjoyed this book for many reasons.
1. The book has a great metaphysical aspect and follows through on the promises made by other NJO books (I won't say how so as not to spoil it).
2. It developed the Vong ecosystem and explained many of their bio-creations.
3. Because it focuses on only a few characters it's easier to follow and allows you to quickly see how all the pieces fit together. The plot keeps unfolding quickly, but at the same time leading you to want more.
4. There is one really funny irony toward the end.
5. The fights are fewer but unique and compelling.
I could not put the book down and finished it in about two days. My only regret is that I finished it. I hope that Stover is able to write another of the NJO books and I hope that the next book is able to maintain the Vergere's wit and the overall intellegence found in Traitor.

This book is more than a "Star Wars" story. Like every good tale, it is first a story about a truth. This author not only gave a look inside these characters, but did so by giving the reader a doorway in to the real world - if you choose to step through. We all ask questions. In the story, Jacen asks many and learns to see his own answers - and also new questions. I am not saying this book is a guide to self discovery, but it is a push in the right direction. Yes, several of the books in this series are dull and SSSSSSSSLLLLLLLOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWW reads, but this book comes at a perfect time, and in a perfect way to put the previous 12 books in a new light. This one book makes the others better.

Captured and tortured for what seems forever, Jacen struggles to understand---anything. What is Vergere's real purpose? How can Jacen escape? Is Vergere friend or foe? Is there a new way to view the Force? This book makes you think!

Timothy Zahn and Micheal Stackpole have been the reigning kings of Star Wars fiction until now. Mathew Stover has crafted a tale that rivals, and at times exceeds that of anything they have written. The story focuses on Jacen Solo's captivity during the period of the last three books. The reader learns almost as much about Jacen as he does. At times, Traitor was a bit philosophical, even a little Zen. This was only appropriate however, because the entire ordeal was a learning experience for Jacen. Finally, an author comes to the only possible explanation for the Vong's absence in the Force! Don't let the philsophical nature of the story scare you away. There's enough action to go around. This may very well be the best Star Wars novel to date, but that's just my opinion.

I've been reading the Star Wars books since they came out, years ago. The NJO series emerged sometime during my attendance at college, and we finally have books that aren't so "happy." The NJO has put the New Republic to the test and Jacen has been lost to the Vong.
This book is a masterpiece. It is not a story with a million different sub-plots, and it doens't jump around. The writing style is totally different and very good. It's all about Jacen. If you want to to see Jacen return, become a man, and become the most powerful Jedi the New Repiblic has ever seen, read this book. You need to thank the feathered character Vergere and author Matthew Stover.
You might want to read "Rogue Planet" to learn a little bit about Vergere and the Vong.
An excellent and very different book. A totally new writing style has been introduced to the Star Wars Universe

Timothy Zahn and Micheal Stackpole have been the reigning kings of Star Wars fiction until now. Mathew Stover has crafted a tale that rivals, and at times exceeds that of anything they have written. The story focuses on Jacen Solo's captivity during the period of the last three books. The reader learns almost as much about Jacen as he does. At times, Traitor was a bit philosophical, even a little Zen. This was only appropriate however, because the entire ordeal was a learning experience for Jacen. Finally, an author comes to the only possible explanation for the Vong's absence in the Force! Don't let the philsophical nature of the story scare you away. There's enough action to go around. This may very well be the best Star Wars novel to date, but that's just my opinion.

I've been reading the Star Wars books since they came out, years ago. The NJO series emerged sometime during my attendance at college, and we finally have books that aren't so "happy." The NJO has put the New Republic to the test and Jacen has been lost to the Vong.
This book is a masterpiece. It is not a story with a million different sub-plots, and it doens't jump around. The writing style is totally different and very good. It's all about Jacen. If you want to to see Jacen return, become a man, and become the most powerful Jedi the New Repiblic has ever seen, read this book. You need to thank the feathered character Vergere and author Matthew Stover.
You might want to read "Rogue Planet" to learn a little bit about Vergere and the Vong.
An excellent and very different book. A totally new writing style has been introduced to the Star Wars Universe

i loved this book alot my all time favorite charecter is featured in the new jedi order book series his name is jacen solo one seriously awesome charecter this book series is amazing from the very begining to the very end!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The best Star Wars novel ever.
And one of the finest science-fiction novels ever written.
For the record, before "Traitor", I used to think that "I, Jedi" was the best SW book available.
But "Traitor" is light years away.
Surprising, deep and entertaining.
Most of all, deep.
For the first time in years we see an author who dears to go beyond "good versus bad", "light side versus dark side" in a compelling manner.
He revolutionizes the philosophical foundations of the Star Wars Universe.
All that you've thought before about the Force, about right and wrong, about winning or losing, will get new meanings.
I won't tell you more: read it and enjoy a great, great book.
P.S. I just hope that mister Stover will be persuaded to write more NJO books.

Have you ever picked up one of those books that spoke not only about what was happening to the characters within, but also spoke about reality itself? Have you ever read a story that made you question your own place in the universe, but were ultimately entertained throughout the story?
Simply put, that is what Traitor is. Though I was fascinated by the story and the art of unfolding the plot, I found myself constantly amazed by the way that certain phrases held multiple meanings if read in just the right way. The truth of any one's words can hide a thousand meanings. The difference is perception.
This book, in my opinion, is the best of the New Jedi Order series. Period. I am by definition a R. A. Salvatore fan, and loved Vector Prime, but this book is the one in which NJO finally awakens and makes a convincing argument for its continued existance. This book alters the perceptions of its readers, as well as those of its characters.

I don't get the people who review stuff on Amazaon. After Allston's 2 superior novels, Traitor was much ado about nothing. Yeah, Jacen stops overthinking long enough to actually DO something. And yeah, finding out Vergere's a Jedi Of The Old Republic who knew Anakin Skywalker was cool - if it had led to something like a history lesson for Luke on the old Jedi down the road (which it doesn't).

There wasn't any breakthrough revelations about the Force so don't go in thinking there will be. The idea that there is no dark side & the Jedi himself is ultimately the one with the darkness in him is sort of true & sort of not. Yes, overrated this book is. Destiny's Way however....

Well Jacen is alive and kicking and he is ready to take down the Yuzan Vong single handedly. Now with Vergee as his mentor Jacen has learned to embrace his abilities and stop questioning himself. He is faced with a life changing course as to what he will do with himself and even to Vergee his future is clouded. But Jacen is no longer the whimp that he used to be and now he is ready to destroy anything in his path with a new understanding of the force. An excellent book for any reader and i love the change of personaliy that Jacen has taken

I have been reading Star Wars novels for years. I have read every Star Wars book out to date This is by far one of the best I have ever read. It concentrates on Jacen through the entire book so if your looking for your usual Han, Luke and all the other main characters showing up and saving the day is some big dramatic way this is not the book for you. There is no big space battles and not a lot of combat in general; but the combat that is in the book is very well written giving you a good sense of exactly what is happening. This book will make you think all the way through. It will answer some questions a lot of Star Wars fans have and bring up some new ones. Lastly this is not a book for kids. A lot of the things that are explored in the book will confuse most people; but if you are a Star Wars fan or are just looking for a good read this is the book for you.

This is the best book i have ever read. Period. It answers practically every question, it provides an all encompassing UNIQUE way of looking at life. And not just Star Wars life. Practically everything said is applicable to real life. It has warfare, psychology, philosophy, amazing (and believable) character development, gut wrenching turns and love.

I have read all of the Star Wars books. I have to admit I was getting a little bored with NJO -- same old battles with coral skips and Yuuzhan Vong warriors.
"Traitor" delved into the mystery of why the Jedi cannot sense the Vong through the Force and takes Jacen further down the path explored by Luke as to the nature of the Force. I hope that a subsequent book will find Jacen discussing what he has experienced with Luke.
This book gets my highest recommmendation. Only caveat is that you need to read the other NJO books first so that this story will be in context.

This is an incredible book. i can't say enough good things about it. Jacen is finally done some justice. They have been portraying him as a weak idiot, and finally he is developed into a great character. the inclusion of ganner, a favorite character of mine, really made the book. Vergere was an awesome character, and has become the new yoda. the way she spoke in riddles, and tought jacen was harsh but effective. the book really tied up a lot of loose ends as well. i recommend thid book to all

This story has had me thinking about what the Force is really about. Stover really gets you to think if the Force is really what everyone says it is, or if there is more to it then what is taught. Well the only one that can answer that one is Mr. Lucus himself, but that is another story.
I almost finished with this one, and as like the other ones, this has me reading it for hours, or for as long as I have free time. It really grabs you.

I loved Traitor, it was worth every penny.
It was also quite unlike any SW book I have read so far, much more philosophical than say the Enemy Lines duology wich was much more action oriented, but that was a good thing I thought.
This book also turns a few concepts upside down and introduces new viewpoints, some of this I have noticed has been quietly hinted at in earlier books in the EU too, one is also given some hints as to why the Vong are not seen in the force by the Jedi.
All in all, this is a very good book, I read through it very quickly though because of that.
I must say that the NJO has gotten alot better now with these latest releases after Star by Star.
Let's hope the trend lasts.

I have never before read a novel by MR. Stover,so as you can understand I was curius as to whether it would be worthy of the name STAR WARS. I should have known that george would not have let someone who was a second rate author take part in the continuation of the galaxy he created. While I do not believe this to be the best of the NJO series i think it is up there with the top ones. I believe it has several good points in it. One of which is about pain, for pain can cripple you in many ways if you let it, or it can be a very good teacher. For everyone learns something from it even animals, what is allowed to be done, what is not, where one can go and where one cannot. Think about it. I am also glad it was in a way a happier book for it was time for one in the series. First Chewbacca was killed, and I will admit I came close to cryng over that. Then Anakin was lost but I kind of have theory as to why, but I would like to find out if it is correct first. But i think that in order to be able to understand the next one you will probably have to read this one. So even if you don't think you will like it, I recomend it in order to keep the continuity going. ENJOY.

Once again I looked foreward to another Star Wars book being released. Now though it just seems like everything is going stagnant, books are being written and released, just to make money. I have always loved the Star Wars series, and consider most of the pre NJO books to furter the story that was put forth in the movies. The NJO series on the whole has been disappointing and seem to be written by authors who want to see who can put the most shocking event in. Now I only read the books after borrowing them from a friend or library, just to see what's happening. I used to care about what happened, but the plot lines and events don't even seem like star wars anymore. It's sad. :( I had hoped tha this book would be different but I was wrong. If you are looking to just see how the story is developing, read it. If you are a fan of star wars, stay away from the NJO series as a whole and keep the faith with the earlier stories. Since I starting this series, it's been nothing but disappointments. I wish I had never started reading these. I should have just stayed with the old ones.

i thought it was a great idea, bringing Vergere back, from the agents of chaos duology and finally revealing her own philosophy, why she went with the Vong back before Rogue Planet(between Episodes one and two.) its a good book. this answers a lot of questions i had, concerning Jacen, and what went on there. it also offers other views of the Force, that have been hinted at in previous NJO books. i can wait to read destiny's way. it should be good, see how things go, and find out who this possible saviour of the new republic and the jedi might be that Luke hinted at in an earlier NJO book.

A purely driven Jacen Solo book, that surpasses everything released in the NJO line so far. I bought this book on a Friday evening and was reading the final page in the wee hours of Saturday morning. We are given a new insight to the force and that it may not be so black and white. A must read for any fan.

After countless poundings and poundings of nonstop Star Wars action (not saying it's a bad thing but it does get old after a while), this book has finally been able to bring what the prior New Jedi Order books haven't: a book of the psychological kind. Instead of using blasters or lightsabers to get to the answers, we have here instead the utilizing of the brain and combing through what is the truth and what isn't. And yes, this book definitely has answered a lot of the questions that have lingered ever since Jacen disappeared, for example why no one can feel him through The Force. This book takes Star Wars to a whole another dimension, and it definitely makes the impending release of Destiny's Way even more intriguing.

a good read, but for older readers. it really edged toward 3 1/2 stars. very dark, and with a lot of gore. can be confusing at times, with visions and seemingly quick transportation to new places. ganner is killed off, and he was a favorite character of mine. could it be vergere is going to the new republic's side, or JACEN's side? interesting, but not nearly enough characters, only five real ones: jacen, vergere, nom anor, ganner, and tsavong lah. u need luke, mara, jaina, leia, jag, kyp, han, or any others. too short for its subjects, as well. and jacen seems to get along far too well without the force. all in all though, a book worth buying.

Though the writing style is different and the book focuses only on Jacen, it is truly an amazing story. I imagine the core team of NJO writers planned out the entire story line first, so this Jacen-only story may have been already been mapped out. But WOW, what writing!
The other NJO strories do not keep you guessing as much and don't offer such a psychological journey. Not for the fans of simple blast and slash I suppose, Traitor really draws you in and leaves you feeling like the pace is about to become breathless for the rest of the series.
Hats off to Stover for some incredible writing!

All I have to say is that this was a GREAT book. I've been upset since Anakin died, and I felt that the books were rather plotless after that. But now I can see that there's even plot in that: Jacen having visions of his brother that aren't real.
I was amazed at the amount of detail the book went into. It really got into the phyche of the Yuzaahn Vong, and I understood more of why they do what they do. Very interesting.
All in all, this book kicked ... Excellent job, Mr. Stover.

The flow of this book is well-paced. Jacen Solo is faced with the problem of "Who am I? What am I? and Why am I who I am?", questions that all teenagers and adults ask themselves at a crossroads in their lives. Vergere is very enigmatic and truthful in every sentence that she utters. Her "help" borders on torture and sadism in my opinion, but finally makes sense at the end of the novel. As it SHOULD. A definite growth of character is apparent in the evolution of Jacen's path towards understanding of his place as a Jedi and himself. I highly recommend reading this book. You will not be disappointed.

Having read all the NJO books in the series, I find that this book is very different from the other ones. All the other books have many characters and high-action space battles, etc. but this one seems to deal mostly with only a few characters and philosophical issues about the Force. I didn't really enjoy this book at all because it was so depressing and gloomy, especially in the scene in the destroyed Solo apartment, where Jacen is visited by the "Force-ghost" of Anakin.
Nothing in the series really prepares you for a book of this type because, as I said, it's very different. Other people may have enjoyed it, but I really found it far too depressing to really enjoy.

If you are looking for a book that concentrates on one character; this may be the one you are looking for. Of course it would help if you knew the plot of this series, however, I started halfway through and so I really didn't care as long as it was good!

I read this in two days and I went back for more; this tore Jacen's character down and then built it back up again. I can see links from this book to the Swarm series in realistic cerntanty that Jacen hadn't gotten away from this situation as cleanly as I had first hoped.

This book is good reading. It develops Jacen's character from a indecisive bleading heart to a man who is very sure in himself. I like the development between him and Vergere. It is one of the most dynamic and confusing since Jagged and Jaina and Luke and Yoda. I like the ending the best and how it plays into the problems that the Vong are suffering in the current book.

Well not entirely impressed with the series but I continue to read it. The plots not the greatest besides the all of the authors greatest attempts. (By the way, all of the overall plots, who was going to die and all of that was sorta decided before. I'm not sure about how much was decided but I do know that no one knows who is going to stay dead.) The authors have tried hard and I have even forgiven R. A. Salvatore after realizing it wasn't his fault that Chewie died.
What's wrong with the series is that the plots are all really mundane. The stories have only had intense moments when people die or when Coruscant was taken but then immediately die back down. It's trying to be dragged out over a long time but the story is getting old and needs to be put down. At least when the ever-repetitive older novels (which I still preferred even when this new series was...well new) started they stopped after a while.
But don't think I hate the NJO, I don't. I think it needs some improvements, sure, but I don't hate it with every fiber of my being. It startled people out of their complacency and got the SW EU going again. Even though Chewie died and I was sad I didn't particularly hate R. A. (The people I was mad at were the authors before NJO who faded Chewie out of the books. Look for it, it's there.) The NJO have their good moments (IE Star by Star) and their bad (IE Traitor.)
BOTTOM LINE
The NJO has some bad points: It's stuck in a rut, just like the old novels.
But it's got some good points: Hey! At least it's a new rut!

I have read almost all of the SW universe novels... and the NJO series was painful to read. By far the worst SW-EU noel series (and of course the longest). I only read this series because I started reading the Legacy of The Force series that came after the NJO and those books kept referencing back to things that happened during the Vong war that I didn't know about... so I read the NJO series... almost every book in this 19 book series was boring, poorly written, predictable and incredibly dry. I would only recommend reading this series if you are just DYING to know what went down in the war word-for-word. If you can live with the abridged version, look it up on Wikipedia or something and find out the main details.

Like others who have read this book, I thought it would be the first letdown in the series. A book about a single character's struggle in a universe as immense as the Star Wars sage seemed rather odd. This book however, made me think the entire way through. I felt for this poor soul, and I truly felt the process of the Jacen character's growth. The highs and the lows and everything in between. A wonderfully written book!

I found traitor to be a great turn of events for the Jedi. The book confirmed my suspicions that Jacen Solo was still alive, but underwent a life changing experience. I am not sure what to think of Vergere, as she had me confused for much of the story. I think this was a very interesting book, with more than a few lessons to offer. I recommend this book to anyone who has read Star by Star, as it picks up right where Jacen was captured by the Yuuzhan Vong.

After taking a break for about 10 years after Vector Prime came out, I've been reading up in the SWEU again, and this book is exceptionally good, and is evidence of a SW writer who wants to add something rather than collect a paycheck. Nothing is hurried, and the details are wonderful as Stover goes beyond talking about planets and technology.

Traitor is the most complex book in the series but the best one so far. Ganner and Jacen make an awesome team. It's impossible that they can make so good. Matthew Stover has understood what Jacen has been going through and wrote this book like no other.

This book opened up whole avenues of directions for the New Jedi Order series to go from here. Full of conflict, but not of battles, full of questions, missing answers, full of truths, equally full of lies, this book was enigmatic beyond belief, and it will completely shake the foundation of everything you believed about the force. Two sittings, and this book was done.

Its got everything that you want in great literature. It has struggle, hope, despair, and mystery. Vergere is mysterious but amazing nonetheless. Jacen's internal conflicts made the book, but the action sequences were written beautifully. Thank Mr. Stover for this literature and above all a work of art.,

I bought this book and went outside to my car. I decided to read the first chapter while I prepared my cigar for smoking. I didn't pull out of the parking lot until I read every page of the book. A lot of questions about the force are answered, even some questions that were raised in book 12. Go out and get this one immediately

Even though I generally don't like a book when it is based on one person, I think this book was well written. You must pay attention to everyword to fully grasp this book about a young jedi struggling with what he thinks is the light and the dark side and the games Verge plays. It sets the way for Jacen Solo being a very powerful jedi.

To me, it is different to every other book of the NJO series. It is so focused on psychological issues it astounded me I was reading a Star Wars book. What started as some fun actually caused me to go into deep thougt and i remember some of the things Vergere cryptically tells Jacen to this day.

I have read almost all of the books in the Star Wars universe, all the way up to NJO Traitor. This by far was the worst book in the Star Wars universe. There were so many questions answered with more questions that it actually gave me a headache. It was a very slow read and just not as exciteing as the other 12 books. I thought about not finishing the book but decided to finish so I don't get lost in the series. I just hope that the rest of the books do not go down this road.

I must say that this was a great book. Got it and was done with it in about six or seven hours. It kept me guessing on who the "traitor" was. I don't want to give it away for those who haven't read it but it should make you quite happy. Now the real problem is waiting till the next book comes out. That part is just now fair.

this book was amazing. when i first started reading it like the first couple of pages i didn't really like it. then i started to actually read it, and it was amazing. it's my favorite book. it has so much info it's so insightful. it really makes you think. defintley a great book.

I don't know how they got Lucas' approval to write this drivel, but apparently the author doesn't like Star Wars at all. According to one of the main characters, everything we know about the force is wrong, Yoda was a deluded fool, and all wisdom comes from a humanoid chicken. Apparently this science fiction writer didn't realize that Star wars is not science fiction, but space fantasy, with clear good and evil. I'm sure the author is fine in other settings, but he really does not understand the dynamic of Star Wars, and so he makes our beloved characters out to be idiots for holding the beliefs that Jedi have held fo thousands of years. The Power of the Jedi sourcebook
for the Star Wars roleplaying game handles these subjects in a much better fashion, consistant with the wonderful fantasy world that George Lucas originally created.

This was the worst book from the New Jedi Order series. The author must have really had some sort of self confidence issues because he completely over-wrote this. It was a chore to read. It advanced the story better than some others and that is the only reason I gave it 2 stars rather than just one.

Okay, I'll be perfectly honest here. I have yet to finish this book. It arrived about a week ago and when it did I was furious. I've read about half and plan on not finishing it out of pure spite.

I saw the title. I got excited. I bought it on a whim, expecting an awesome story about the resurrection of the greatest character in Star Wars history. I expected it to begin soon after his death and be about his brothers in arms going on a perilous journey to bring him back to life, culminating in the greatest coming back to life scene in entertainment history, and that would only be the first chapter; the start of a long journey that showed how incredibly powerful the character was obviously intended to be but was unfortunately only portrayed as slightly more powerful than everyone else when he had his short amount of screen time.

I didn't get that story. Instead I got some type of weirdly dark book about Han Solos kids that I'm pretty sure don't even exist. Jacen? Who? And the author got it wrong; Chewie didn't die in the movie, but he's not present and I'm pretty sure they mentioned his death. Uugh. I'm two hundred pages in and just can't believe the title, "Star Wars: Traitor" was wasted on this novel.

Two hundred pages in and the greatest character ever Traitor Trooper wasn't even mentioned once. One star.

in my opinion the only reason to read this book is so that you dont miss any thing in this series, it takes about 250 pages for this book to get exciting. another problem i have with this book is the fact that stover always made made ganner look like a blubering fool. in the previous books he was only an insecure man.