X-Wing Rogue Squadron: In the Empire's Service (Star Wars) Book

Very much subservient to the antics of Luke Skywalker and co. in the Star Wars movies, the brave pilots of the Rebellion are akin to the dreaded "red-shirts" in Star Trek--the noble sacrifice element. However, the "expanded universe" of novels and comics has vastly elevated their status, chronicling the space-bound adventures of Rogue Squadron, an elite band of X-Wing pilots led by Wedge Antilles (finally given a role of substance)--perfect material for those fans who revelled in the laser-blastin' dog-fights of the films. In The Empire's Service sees the battle-hardened Rogues having to face their greatest challenge yet: the much-feared and merciless Imperial 181st Squadron. Led by the Empire's greatest ace, Baron Soontir Fel, the 181st are ordered to square accounts with the Rogues. Yet the Rogues are not Fel's only problem: he suspects his pilots are pawns in a nefarious Imperial plan, and then there is his connection to Rebel ace Wedge Antilles. This series has all the hallmark Star Wars action, with the laser blasts flying thick and fast. Crucially, John Nadeau's art brilliantly translates the frenetic movement of the space battles from the screen to the page, while Stackpole gives the Rogues fully rounded characteristics--so they are no longer nameless cannon-fodder. His creation of Baron Fel is engagingly complex--much like Mara Jade--a perfect enemy for Rogue Squadron and one with much potential, given his now divided loyalties. The conclusion to the story, Blood and Honour, should consolidate this excellent foundation. --Danny GraydonRead More