Well-Written & Intriguing addition to the Star Wars mythos

Star Wars: The Cestus Deception by STEVEN BARNES is the first Clone Wars novel to come out since last years' Mace Windu book Shatterpoint. The Cestus Deception brings together, everyone's favorite investigative Jedi Obi-Wan Kenobi along with Kit Fisto (the Jedi that knocked over C-3PO'c battle droid body). The two Jedi are sent on a mission to the world of Cestus, which has been bringing out a new type of droid known as the JK (for Jedi Killers). While Kenobi attempt to bring Cestus back into the Republic fold, Fisto along with 3 Clone Troopers attempts rally the desperate farmers and miners in a fight against corporate oppressiom. Filled with double and triple crosses, this book is certainly interesting and while it is full of surprises, this story truly holds the readers attention and is well-crafted. Most intriguing are the chapters regarding an ARC Clone Trooper Captain known as Nate. This is the first look in to the mind of a clone trooper and while Barnes is a little obvious with where the character ends up, his journey is both interesting and insightful. Overall, I give this book a high 5 stars. Anyway read and enjoy!

An Excellent SW Debut for Steven Barnes

Not having read any of Barnes' previous novels, i was not quite sure what to expect in this book. However, Steven managed to create a truly excellent addition to the Star Wars library. Obi-wan's struggle to stop the bio-droid factories while avoiding wholescale slaughter is one of the best political sub-plots ever to appear in a Star wars novel. Asajj Ventress also makes an impressive debut in this book, and her battle with Obi-wan at the end is very well-choreographed. The centerpiece of this book is the evolution of Nate, an ARC trooper serving under Kenobi, into Jangotat, a brave individual who makes a spectacular sacrifice. Kudos to Barnes for adding several new alien species to the SW pantheon, particularly the X'ting. Hopefully the rest of the Clone Wars series can offer as much enjoyment as this book did.

Great stuff

Steven Barnes foray into the Star Wars universe is a wonderful book. He provides a very interesting look into the mind of a "clone" warrior that provides a lot of food for thought.

His battle scenes are well written, while the politics provide the usual Star Wars back stabbing and intrigue.

I highly recommend this book.