Star Wars: Alphabet Squadron: Shadow Fall
Author: Alexander Freed
Published: 23rd June 2020
ISBN: 97819848200044
Pages: 416
What’s it about?
This is the second in a trilogy following the Alphabet Squadron post in a story that takes place just after Return of the Jedi. In the first novel the squadron came together and fought against their fierce rivals, Shadow Wing, and now, they will need come together without falling apart at the seams when it comes to their own personal fragilities. (Of which there are many!)
Should I read this book?
Short and sweet; Yes. The first book in this trilogy is one of my favourite canon novels and Alexander Freed shows why he is one of the best in the Star Wars writing game with a fantastic follow up. It is quintessential Star Wars in the sense that the middle story of the trilogy is a lot darker and doesn’t always go to plan for our heroes. There are massive space battles, betrayals, intrigue and incredible characterisation.
What did you like?
A lot of it. Freed has been able to create a cast of characters that are intriguing to say the least. They bicker, love, fight and are deeply deeply flawed. So much like all of us and that’s what makes this book so enjoyable. Yes, it’s based in a fictional galaxy but the characters feel real and that makes this an incredibly relatable and fascinating read.
What didn’t you like?
It’s long! It’s a really long novel and I felt that it could have been a tad shorter if I’m honest, specifically some of the parts on the planet Cerberon in the latter third of the book.
What’s next?
The third in the trilogy, Victory’s Price, is released March next year and I for one can’t wait. The series is left on a tantalising knife edge and in Freed’s capable hands I cannot see being disappointed. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. He’s the best out there at the moment.
Anything else?
If you haven’t already, read these books! The third will be here before you know it and it’s a great starting place if you’re new to Star Wars books too!
Oh, and there is also some weird Sith like stuff going on at one point and that, well that was intriguing!
- Hardcover Book
- Freed, Alexander (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 416 Pages - 06/23/2020 (Publication Date) - Random House Worlds (Publisher)