There are some interesting plot elements in this book. This time, it's the Hutts, led by Durga, who've built another Death Star variation called the Darksaber (a reference to its long, cylindrical shape). What I mean by predictable is that the New Republic has to yet again defend the galaxy from a superweapon. Anderson is a very cool writer and he pulls off a predictable story in style. And Luke Skywalker must draw upon his innermost resources to fight for a world in which he can not only live, but dare to love. In Darksaber the Jedi are heading for the ultimate test of their power-a test in which all the temptations of the dark side beckon. Together they must fight on two fronts, outshooting and outsmarting the most formidable enemies in the galaxy. Now, as Luke, Han, Leia, Chewbacca, Artoo and Threepio regroup to face these threats, they are joined by new Jedi Knights and Callista. Together they are marshaling Imperial forces to wipe out the New Republic. The beautiful Admiral Daala, still very much alive and more driven than ever to destroy the Jedi, has joined forces with the defeated Pellaeon, former second in command to Grand Admiral Thrawn. But there is worse news yet: the Empire lives.

This planet-crushing power will be in the ruthless hands of Durga the Hutt - a creature without conscience or mercy. The disturbing piece of information is that the evil Hutts, criminal warlords of the galaxy, are building a secret superweapon: a reconstruction of the original Death Star, to be named Darksaber. Yet brewing on Tatooine is news that will shake Luke and Han and threaten everything they value. Tormented and haunted, Luke cannot rest until Callista is a Jedi in the fullest sense, for only then will the link between their minds and souls be restored. Luke is hoping the old Jedi Knight's spirit will tell him how to help his love, Callista, regain her lost ability to use the Force.

Luke Skywalker and Han Solo, cloaked by the Force and riding with the hostile Sand People, have returned to the dunes of the desert planet Tatooine in hopes of finding what Luke so desperately seeks: contact with Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Darksaber kevin j anderson