When I went and saw Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens in theaters, two characters I was excited for were Captain Phasma and General Hux. I left theaters hoping that Episode VIII would give us more of the "Imperial" side of the First Order. It's something I really felt was lacking in the original trilogy. The Empire isn't just Vader and Palpatine, and I feel like the Empire really gets overlooked.
So, Tarkin, a novel delving into the first Grand Moff in the Star Wars canon. Tarkin was an excellent villain in Episode IV, and I was excited to see him in Rogue One. When I learned about this novel I knew it was a must-read. The plot stays safely in its lane within the established canon, developing an anti-Empire scheme that is resolved by the book's conclusion. That's all fine and dandy, but where Tarkin shines is when it goes into Wilhuff's backstory. The reader learns why he is who he is. There is also some excellent backstory/character development for Vader and the Emperor, as well. I really enjoyed this book, if only for the character development of this unholy triumvirate.
--Mikie
Like Mikie, I was really interested in seeing more of the Imperial side of the universe. Tarkin is an interesting character, and I was excited to get to know him better - especially considering his relationship with Darth Vader in what little we see of them in the movies.
I found this novel harder to get through than the last few we've read - only because of the pacing. I found Tarkin's history and backstory fascinating, but it always felt as though they only delved into these flashbacks during moments of action in the actual timeline. I would have enjoyed the novel more if it were laid out differently. On top of that, the anti-empire scheme felt forced, and as though it hadn't been fully thought out. Their goals weren't clear, and it never really felt like they had a chance.
DESPITE the plot holes, I really enjoyed getting to know Tarkin better - especially since this is one of the novels that Disney has decided is still part of Star Wars canon, and hasn't been wiped clean with much of the EU.
-Cat
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