This, as much as anything I’ve ever done, was a team project, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t give credit where credit was due. First, to Shelly Shapiro, for holding my hand through the Star Wars maze, and for bringing a fresh vision to an old story. To Jenni Smith, for her support, enthusiasm, and knowing eye. To the folks at Lucasfilm—Sue Rostoni, Lucy Autrey Wilson, and Howard Roffman—who brought an honest and unyielding concern for quality that forced me to stay at my best. And to two fellow authors: Mike Stackpole, for giving me insights about this world I was entering, and Terry Brooks, who reminded me that it would be incredibly stupid to say no to Star Wars!