Catalyst (Star Wars)
By James Luceno
- Release Date: 2016-11-15
- Genre: Science Fiction
Description
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Lauded Star Wars author James Luceno returns to pen an intense tale of ambition and betrayal that sets the stage for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
War is tearing the galaxy apart. For years the Republic and the Separatists have battled across the stars, each building more and more deadly technology in an attempt to win the war. As a member of Chancellor Palpatine’s top-secret Death Star project, Orson Krennic is determined to develop a superweapon before the Republic’s enemies can. And an old friend of Krennic’s, the brilliant scientist Galen Erso, could be the key.
Galen’s energy-focused research has captured the attention of both Krennic and his foes, making the scientist a crucial pawn in the galactic conflict. But after Krennic rescues Galen; his wife, Lyra; and their young daughter, Jyn, from Separatist kidnappers, the Erso family is deeply in Krennic’s debt. Krennic then offers Galen an extraordinary opportunity: to continue his scientific studies with every resource put utterly at his disposal. While Galen and Lyra believe that his energy research will be used purely in altruistic ways, Krennic has other plans that will finally make the Death Star a reality. Trapped in their benefactor’s tightening grasp, the Ersos must untangle Krennic’s web of deception to save themselves—and the entire galaxy.
Reviews
BORING & SLOW!
1By mchan1Barely made it through Chapter 3 and I had to close the book. The book provides the background which leads up the events of the movie, Rogue One. Unfortunately, it's slow as heck and the narrator shows NO signs of excitement in Reading the book. Forget about adding different tones for each characters either. Not a fan of James Luceno if this is the author's writing style as he should literally just QUIT the Star Wars universe.Perfect.
5By Smstton2This book is absolutely amazing. It is the perfect lead up into the Rogue One movie. If you want to be more familiar with some of the minor characters in the movie, I highly recommend you read this. Just FYI, this book starts in the middle of Attack of the Clones, and goes up through the point when Rogue One starts.Catalyst
5By dmartz513Maybe it's my anticipation for the release of Rogue One, but this was my favorite novel of the 3 Star Wars novels I have read this year. The story perfectly sets up what's to come and I feel I have an advantage regarding the back story between Krennic and Galen Erso. My only hope is that the payoff will be just as satisfying at the cinema!Required Reading for Rogue One
4By greystonegirl16Super mild spoilers. This book should be required reading before seeing Rogue One. The story brings so much depth to the characters we will see in the film, especially Galen Erso and Orson Krennic. The novel also went a lot deeper into kyber crystals than we've seen in the new canon (which was nice timing after the Ahsoka novel - I feel like we've gotten a lot on kybers recently). The book left me wanting more about Jyn's character, but perhaps that's the best way for it to end since it is a prequel to Rogue One!Warm-up/Opening act/Predictable
3By Twisted ChallahEasy read, but with ineffective drama/intrigue. Character development was fair, with main character who may be on the high-functioning end of the autism spectrum and an intelligent, independent wife who cares deeply for him. Lacking detail that would spur interest in the source of energy found in the crystals of the light saber. A lot of hand-waving that will hopefully get more play in Rogue One.Great read!
5By airrobertoWell written story by the author. One of the better Star Wars story I have every read. Recommend to everyone who will see Rouge One!Great Lead Up
4By FigshtaThis is a great lead up to the movie; it's well written and exciting!
