Like Sherlock Holmes meets The Art of War in a galaxy far, far away. This was a fun read, and a good palate cleanser between two heavy books. The three main characters of Zahn's book—Arihnda Pryce, Eli Vanto, and Thrawn himself—are complex, layered characters, self-reflective, and unique within the galaxy. The New Canon galaxy in which Star Wars now takes place is perhaps less gritty than the Legends continuity, but also saddled with less baggage; this "second draft" of the expanded universe is more accessible and equally compelling.