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A review by jessraven
Labyrinth of Evil by James Luceno
3.0
All in all, I found this to be a relatively enjoyable read. I found the dialogue between Obi-Wan and Anakin to be exceptionally witty and well-written; Luceno captures the essence of their dynamic very well. However, I had to deduct points because I found that the pacing drags at times, particularly during the Windu-centric chapters. Perhaps it's because I found the overall "hunt for Sidious" to be a dull storyline compared to the fast-paced action of the Obi-Wan and Anakin-centric chapters, but I had to take several breaks when trying to get through the slower sections of the book.
My much larger complaint, though, is Luceno's characterization of Padmé. While the films do arguably leave much to be desired, as well, the novels have always been - in my opinion - an opportunity to explore her character to a deeper extent. She is more than just Anakin's wife; she is the former Queen of Naboo and current Republic Senator, and she is far more than just a damsel in distress. You would barely be able to glean such an assessment from Labyrinth of Evil. We only see Padmé's strong, independent side once in the entire novel, when she picks up a blaster during the invasion of Coruscant; all of her other appearances reduce her to blushing over her relationship with Anakin, crying because Anakin isn't there, fainting and being pregnant. Luceno's characterization of Padmé Amidala, one of the most fascinating characters in the prequels, leaves so much to be desired. It may very well be that I was spoiled by reading E.K. Johnston's Padmé novels immediately prior to picking this book up, but I still see no reason that she should be written so... dully, even when she isn't the narrative's main character. Shaak Ti and Stass Allie were both given the opportunity to be vibrant and engaging, so why wasn't Padmé given the same luxury?
I did enjoy Labyrinth of Evil and would recommend it to fans of Obi-Wan and Anakin, and perhaps even Dooku, but I don't think I would read it a second time.
My much larger complaint, though, is Luceno's characterization of Padmé. While the films do arguably leave much to be desired, as well, the novels have always been - in my opinion - an opportunity to explore her character to a deeper extent. She is more than just Anakin's wife; she is the former Queen of Naboo and current Republic Senator, and she is far more than just a damsel in distress. You would barely be able to glean such an assessment from Labyrinth of Evil. We only see Padmé's strong, independent side once in the entire novel, when she picks up a blaster during the invasion of Coruscant; all of her other appearances reduce her to blushing over her relationship with Anakin, crying because Anakin isn't there, fainting and being pregnant. Luceno's characterization of Padmé Amidala, one of the most fascinating characters in the prequels, leaves so much to be desired. It may very well be that I was spoiled by reading E.K. Johnston's Padmé novels immediately prior to picking this book up, but I still see no reason that she should be written so... dully, even when she isn't the narrative's main character. Shaak Ti and Stass Allie were both given the opportunity to be vibrant and engaging, so why wasn't Padmé given the same luxury?
I did enjoy Labyrinth of Evil and would recommend it to fans of Obi-Wan and Anakin, and perhaps even Dooku, but I don't think I would read it a second time.