In this definitive novel readers will follow Thrawn's rise to power-uncovering the events that
created one of the most iconic villains in Star Wars history. One of the most cunning and
ruthless warriors in the history of the Galactic Empire Grand Admiral Thrawn is also one of
the most captivating characters in the Star Wars universe from his introduction in bestselling
author Timothy Zahn's classic Heir to the Empire through his continuing adventures in Dark
Force Rising The Last Command and beyond. But Thrawn's origins and the story of his rise in
the Imperial ranks have remained mysterious. Now in Star Wars: Thrawn Timothy Zahn chronicles
the fateful events that launched the blue-skinned red-eyed master of military strategy and
lethal warfare into the highest realms of power-and infamy. After Thrawn is rescued from exile
by Imperial soldiers his deadly ingenuity and keen tactical abilities swiftly capture the
attention of Emperor Palpatine. And just as quickly Thrawn proves to be as indispensable to
the Empire as he is ambitious as devoted as its most loyal servant Anakin Skywalker and a
brilliant warrior never to be underestimated. On missions to rout smugglers snare spies and
defeat pirates he triumphs time and again-even as his renegade methods infuriate superiors
while inspiring ever greater admiration from the Empire. As one promotion follows another in
his rapid ascension to greater power he schools his trusted aide ensign Eli Vanto in the
arts of combat leadership and the secrets of claiming victory. But even though Thrawn
dominates the battlefield he has much to learn in the arena of politics where ruthless
administrator Arihnda Pryce holds the power to be a potent ally or a brutal enemy. All these
lessons will be put to the ultimate test when Thrawn rises to admiral-and must pit all the
knowledge instincts and battle forces at his command against an insurgent uprising that
threatens not only innocent lives but also the Empire's grip on the galaxy-and his own
carefully laid plans for future ascendency.
