"Star Wars: Aftermath" revisit. It’s not “freaking amazing,” but definitely solid. I originally gave this book a 3/5, reading it near the beginning of my Star Wars journey. Back then, I didn’t enjoy it characters felt unlikable, the story seemed irrelevant, and the series as a whole was a pass for me.

Re-reading it now, with the wealth of Star Wars stories around me, the book holds up much better. The characters are still not the most likable, but seeing how they interact within the broader Star Wars universe makes them more enjoyable. They make sense now in a way they didn’t before.

The story takes place right after the fall of the Empire on Endor. The Empire is scattered, while the new Rebellion is finding its footing. The focus is mostly on the Empire’s power struggle. Familiar names like Admiral Sloane appear alongside new ones, and there’s a big bad whose presence is more impactful on a second read.

I do still wonder how much of this connects to current Star Wars canon. Many characters exist only in these books Wedge is here, Norra Wexley doesn’t appear elsewhere, and Admiral Sloane is one of the few who carries over. There’s plenty of room for expansion.

Overall, Star Wars: Aftermath has tension, atmosphere, and real stakes. It captures the chaos of the Empire’s collapse and the challenges of a fledgling Rebellion.

Star Wars: Aftermath earns an upgraded 4/5.

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