The twelfth volume of The New Jedi Order Rebel Stand continues the story lines begun in its immediate predecessor Rebel Dream. Luke and Mara Skywalker, accompanied by young Jedi Tahiri and elements of Wraith squadron, infiltrate Coruscant in a risky way. They want to find out what causes the strange, dark ripples in the Force and deal with it as well as organise resistance against the Yuuzhan Vong. Old heroes Han and Leia Solo visit yet unconquered worlds in order to inspire local governments not to appease the invadors and, of course, set up resistance cells on their own. In the meanwhile, Wedge Antilles and his subordinates keep defending Borleias from the aggressive Vong attackers that keep probing their way forward. Knowing that eventual defeat is inevitable, Antilles wants to taunt the enemy commander into an all out attack that leaves him open to a clever ploy that might result in a victory for the Resistance while losing the battle.
Rebel Stand is even better than its predecessor. The different storylines are entertaining to read, if for very different reasons. The infiltration of Coruscant is very gloomy and sad to read, with a generous hint of dark humor provided by Wraiths. The Solos’ plot is good old scoundrel style with a lot of goodhearted cheer, even slapstick. Borleias’ defense is less humorous but leaves a grim and determined impression. Therefore, the three parts balance out nicely and underscore facts nicely with fitting atmosphere. So I have to say that Aaron Allston definitely did a good job with this duology; it is a pity that this his only two contributions to The New Jedi Order.
Sounds nice – So I’ll look forward to read books of Aaron Alston.