Ok, so I never read the NJO (im working on that, almost finished with book 1 ) But I did read The Joiner King, and The Unseen Queen. So I'm an EU n00bie, but at least that means I can give you a non-biased review of the 3rd book of the Dark Nest Trilogy which was released December 05.

The book moves incredibly fast and I wouldnt pick it up unless you've read Dark Nest 1 and 2, which are good books in there own right and deserve to be read. The story starts out with an understanding that the Jedi Council is suffering from heavy contradictions and that the Jedi Knights decisions and devotions are inevitably influenced by their own personal relationships and responsibilities other than the Jedi Order.

Spoilers Ahead:






It's very clear from the get-go that Han, Leia, Luke, Mara... well the whole Solo-Skywalker family is displeased with the apparent fact that Jaina and Zekk have become Joiners and are aiding the Killik war effort against the Chiss.

Something not touched upon well enough, I thought, was Raynar Thul's presence as head of the Shared Mind of the Killiks, and also the way the colony is influenced by Lomi and Rema.

This book contains the most action out of all 3 of the books, sorry dialogue lovers, but the action is very well written, and there is plenty of it. There are countless battles, space and land and a number of lightsaber duels between major rivals.

Jacens character changes a lot in this book and he has become a very interesting Jedi, his methods are somewhat odd and even questionable at times but Denning wrote it to show that this kid really is the stuff... as in Heir to the Jedi potential. There are times where you think he is a complete idiot because of his actions, then realize his actions were the best and most crucial of all. I'll let you read it yourself to find out more.

The ending with Rayner was... Minor Spoiler... really a lot different than what I expected to happen. I won't go into detail on the resolution of his character but I will say it might leave you bummed. Spoiler: It'll leave you bummed if your bloodthirsty.





End Spoilers:

All in all I thought it was a great book. I love Dennings writing I think all his stories are very well written and are very good at getting you hooked to the story. Great Job Denning!

Overall Rating:
9 out of 10

Hook Factor:
8.5 out of 10

I hope everyone enjoys the books as much as I do. Legacy of the Force is on the way and I can't wait to see what happens next. Oh and for those of you wondering "Why in the world has he not read NJO?!?" I'm planning on reading the whole thing between Legacy Releases.

May the Force Be With You...

Mr.Yoda