Shadow Fall - Book Review

“It was a plan worthy of the Rebel Alliance, and that was distasteful in its own right. But no frontal assault would take Cerberon.”

Alexander Freed’s second installment of the Alphabet Squadron trilogy brings new heights to the canon Star Wars universe. Set shortly after the tragic battle of Pandem Nai, Freed’s ragtag crew of pilots continue to struggle with maintaining their humanity amidst the violence of the seemingly endless war with the remnants of the Empire. While the first novel in the trilogy, Alphabet Squadron, thoroughly introduced us to the piloting fivesome, we truly see the depth of these characters emerge in Shadow Fall.

Freed has proven in his previous novel Battlefront: Twilight Company that legacy characters are not essential in order to create a memorable Star Wars novel. Although Hera Syndulla of the popular Rebels series is featured more prominently in Shadow Fall, she certainly did not steal the limelight away from the other characters. As one might expect based on the cover art, Chass Na Chadic is perhaps the most dynamic character in the second installment. Chass has always been a bit of a wildcard compared to the rest of her squadron. Fiercely devoted to the cause after a chance meeting with the legendary Jyn Urso, Chass has devoted herself to the rebellion and now the fledgling New Republic. Despite this revelation in the prior novel, the motivations behind her attitude and actions were still largely a mystery. Through the separation of the squadron and the individualized storylines of Shadow Fall, Freed is able to provide a touching backstory for the angsty Theelin that resonates with readers, reminding us all of the trials and tribulations that mark our shared humanity.

One might argue that humanity is the central theme in Freed’s trilogy. Oddly, this theme is best portrayed and explained through a non-human character. IT-O the blunt yet caring torture droid turned therapist. IT-O acts as a catalyst for Yrica Quell to view and assess not only her humanity and human experiences, but also those of her fellows especially Caern Adan and the mysterious Kairos. Star Wars has always been a tool for connecting readers and viewers with themes that remind us of ethical considerations on a personal, political and social level. The Alphabet Squadron series is no exception. Freed leaves us with a powerful message in regard to our faults, flaws and regrets: do not dwell on the past, rather we must grow from our experiences. “In the years since those experiences, most every cell in your body-every atom-has been replaced and renewed. You have rebuilt yourself, both physically and mentally. You do not need to carry the guilt of prior incarnation.” This message may be timeless and cliche, but Freed’s prose through the voice of a machine causes readers to reflect on their own actions and move forward in an effort to improve upon them.

The concept of humanity, ethics and war is deeply rooted in Freed’s writing. One of the most notable aspects of canon material versus Legends material is their depiction of war. War and violence is a key element driving the plot in most Star Wars material. However, the new canon has done an incredible job in depicting the darker side of violence. Rather than focusing on glorizing the thrill of the battle and fallen heroes, we see the trauma and psychological toll that follows years of conflict. As we continue to follow the pilots of Alphabet Squadron, audiences gain a greater appreciation and understanding for both fictional and real life war veterans. In a time when much of the world is rife with violence, often fueled by prejudice and hate, it is increasingly paramount that audiences, both young and old, understand the realities and consequences of war.

Shadow Fall is a brilliant and thrilling depiction of life after the fall of the Empire. Showcasing the joys, hardships and woes of military life, Freed firmly establishes his characters as part of the greater Star Wars universe. The universality of themes within Shadow Fall allows readers of all ages to make connections and draw parallels to the world around them—achieving the ultimate goal of any art form.