For Star Wars fans craving new adventures in the gritty underworld between the Original and Sequel Trilogies, the audiobook “Honor Among Thieves” penned by acclaimed sci-fi author duo James S.A. Corey delivers an utterly engaging tale. Brought to life by veteran narrator Marc Thompson, this story set before the events of “The Force Awakens” introduces new scoundrels and criminal syndicates to the galaxy far, far away.
When the Empire intercepts a rebel transmission hinting at a traitor in their own ranks, they recruit imprisoned scoundrel Han Solo to infiltrate the ruthless criminal organization known as the Riot Runners and identify the spy in their midst. Pulled unwillingly into the mission by his old frenemy Sana Starros, Han must partner with the cunning Ledanet and her teen hacker Zari Bangel to expose the turncoat in the Runners’ ranks before hundreds of innocent lives are lost.
Meanwhile, Luke Skywalker embarks on his own secret quest to locate a mysterious Jedi temple, crossing paths with Princess Leia amidst the galactic underworld’s most dangerous smugglers, assassins, and crime lords. As their missions collide, all three rebels find their courage and loyalty tested to the limits.
The fast-paced, twisting plot hurtles readers into the glamorous sinister underbelly of a galaxy in turmoil. Han’s dry wit and brash bravado electrify the story, perfectly captured in Thompson’s iconic voice performance. The tensions between honorable duty and criminal code among the shady Runners offer fascinating moral complexity.
But the real power of “Honor Among Thieves” is the profound exploration of Han, Luke and Leia during this pivotal period after the Rebellion’s triumph but before their destinies as legend are fulfilled. Corey examines the emotional toll of war on these heroes as the galaxy settles into an uneasy new order. Beneath Han’s cocky charm, hints of a trauma linger that will haunt him into his later years. Luke’s earnest idealism teeters on obsession in his relentless pursuit of Jedi purpose. Leia’s steely devotion to the Rebellion comes at the cost of her own spirit.
In weaving their distinct storylines into a galactic tapestry, Corey provides poignant insights into what shaped the iconic trio into the complex, damaged legends we meet decades later in Episode VII. Their humor, camaraderie and clash of personalities propels the adventure even amidst the murky shadows and criminals of the fringe.
For all the new scoundrels, assassins and settings unique to this tale, the beating heart remains timeless and familiar: Han, Luke and Leia tested by adversity, rising to heroism, but forever changed by the costs of war. Thirty years after “Return of the Jedi,” Corey captures the essence of these beloved icons at their prime—weary but unbroken, confronted by their own vulnerabilities and conflicts as the fledgling New Republic order struggles to rise from the ashes of the Empire’s defeat.
Meanwhile, Marc Thompson’s theatrical vocal range animates the diverse cast, from Han’s gruff deadpan to the silky danger of crime boss Faalagian Anbor. Sound effects and John Williams’ iconic musical score heighten the interstellar ambiance. The audio production values fully immerse the listener into the glitzy but ruthless underworld.
Expanding the post-Episode VI landscape, “Honor Among Thieves” crafts an original caper perfect for newcomers while rewarding long-time fans with insights that resonate into the sequel era. Corey’s razor-sharp dialogue and high-stakes plot combined with Thompson’s acting chops deliver an utterly thrilling adventure. This audiobook is a must-have for any Star Wars fan’s collection.
