The third audiobook in the epic nine-part Fate of the Jedi series, “Backlash” by acclaimed Star Wars author Aaron Allston continues the dramatic events unfolding as the Jedi Order struggles to contain a terrifyingDARKSIDEpsychosis afflicting its own members. Brought to life through Marc Thompson’s gripping vocal performance, this installment sends Luke and Ben Skywalker on adangerous mission to the aleien world Dathomir, hoping to sever the dark tendrils woven into the Jedi psyche.
With anti-Jedi sentiments on the rise across the galaxy, public pressure mounts for greater oversight and control of the seemingly unstable Order. Spurred byChief of StateDaala, the galactic government authorizes a task force empowered to monitor, detain and potentially convict Jedi displaying signs of psychosis. Outraged at being branded dangerous criminals, the Jedi Council prepares to fight back and expose the hidden enemies intent on destroying them from within.
Amidst the turmoil, Luke leads a daring expedition to the forbidden planet of Dathomir, seeking wisdom from the Dathomiri Witches on how to free Jedi Knight Seff Hellin from the Dark Side’s possessive grip and understand the Zombie-like plague. But surviving the planet’s lethal wildlife and warring Force-sensitive clans will push Luke, Ben and their ally Han Solo to their limits.
Meanwhile on Coruscant, Luke’s son Jagged Fel must battle deadly assassins targeting Daala herself. Investigating side-by-side,JediJaina Solo and ImperialCaptainTahiri Veilamust overcome old grudges to stop the attacks. But as violence spreads, public fear of the troubled Jedi grows.
Allston excels at weaving multiple storylines around unforgettable personalities. Thompson’s theatrical rangecolorfully impersonates the sprawling cast of heroes and villains. SardonicHan Solo, conflictedJedi caught between duty and conscience, political operatives with shadowy motives – all come alive through dramatic voicework complemented by John Williams’ iconic soundtrack.
The non-stop action and banterbetween fan favorites will thrill new listeners, while longtime fans are rewarded with continuity Easter eggs. But the real strength of Backlash is its fearless tackling of complex themes as civil war looms – the politics of fear, intolerance bred of ignorance, the dangers of unchecked power, and finding balance between liberty and security.
Twelve books deep into the Fate of the Jedi odyssey, Backlash keeps raising the stakes. Lightsaber duels, assassination plots, License planetary dangers and psychological tension ratchet with every chapter. Thompson’s performance pops with kinetic energy. Yet Allstonnever loses sight of the very human emotions driving events as institutions clash and fail.
With pressure mounting from all sides, the Jedi walk an increasingly perilous tightrope. But their faith in fellowship andthe Force is morecritical than ever. Backlashis space opera storytelling at its best, delivering blockbuster thrills grounded in the relatable struggles of complex people forced into heart-rending choices for the greater good. Marc Thompson’s passionate narration makes this electrifying audiobook a must-listenfor every Star Warsfan.
