Star Wars: Brotherhood Book Review
“Star Wars: Brotherhood” is the Star Wars book you’ve been looking for.
Given that it’s one of 2 Star Wars days (May 25th being the other), it seems only fitting to review a brand new Star Wars novel on May The 4th. “Star Wars: Brotherhood” marks author Mike Chen’s debut Star Wars novel (he previously penned a Star Wars story for “From A Certain Point Of View: The Empire Strikes Back”) and what a debut it is. Set between “Star Wars: Episode 2: Attack Of The Clones” and “Star Wars: Episode 3: Revenge Of The Sith,” the story revolves around Anakin Skywalker (now a Jedi Knight and no longer Obi-Wan’s Padawan) and Obi-Wan Kenobi (now on the Jedi Council) who become caught up in a bombing disaster that befell Cato Neimoidia (a neutral system in the Clone War). Was this done by the Separatists or the Republic? That is the question.
Obi-Wan Kenobi is dispatched to travel to Cato Neimoidia to investigate the bombing where he will be monitored by a Separatist (none other than Asajj Ventress) to ensure nothing shady occurs. This actually marks the first meeting between the 2 characters. Anakin, meanwhile, is on his first lead mission to deliver aid to Langston with Jedi Younglings. He meets a Zabrak Youngling (Mill) who is both overwhelmed by the Force and is questioning the Jedi Order. The two form an unexpected bond together that will play into the story later on. 2 other key characters included here are two Neimoidian Defense Legion members- Ruug Quarnom and her partner Ketar.
As one might expect, the investigation goes awry and Kenobi finds himself in hot water. Anakin just might have to break the rules to help save his former Master.
“Star Wars: Brotherhood” really feels like an extension of the prequel movies and that’s exactly what fans want from a prequel era novel. While the novel is no doubt positioned to coincide with the release of the forthcoming “Obi-Wan Kenobi” series, this is no mere tie-in book. ‘Brotherhood’ is actually quite a substantial novel in terms of characterization and bridging the game between movies. Mike Chen really digs deep into the mindsets of Anakin and Kenobi with this surprisingly psychological story. We (the audience) learn about Anakin’s frustrations, passions, selfishness, his new marriage with Padme, and his deep friendship with Palpatine while also learning about Kenobi’s self-doubts, concerns about Anakin, and his ponderings about a path he could have had. At the same time, the dynamic between the two is also explored. Now that both characters have been promoted, the bond between the two has evolved and matured. Throughout the course of this story, we really see how that occurs.
For the Star Wars devotees, there’s so many gems to be found here. Not only are there numerous novel and Clone War references, but familiar faces pop up (including a much welcomed appearance by Dexter Jettster). On top of that, Neimoidian culture is covered in great depth as is the political chaos that has engulfed the galaxy. The concepts of political manipulation, the Jedi and Military mixing together, and neutrality are given the spotlight here.
In terms of recent Star Wars novels, Brotherhood is among the very best. Pick this one up day one.
“Star Wars: Brotherhood” is available on hardcover and on audiobook May 10, 2022.
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