Catch Wedge and Rogue Squadron's Next Adventure in The Krytos Trap

It's said that the X-Wing novels are some of the best the expanded universe has to offer, and between an intricate plot and fun characters, it is not difficult to see why. Random House Worlds continues bringing legends novels to the Essential Collection with updated cover art, and for some an audio rendition, and X-Wing: The Krytos Trap by Michael A. Stackpole is one of the lucky novels that also got an audiobook that is narrated by none-other than Marc Thompson. The Krytos Trap picks up after the events of Wedge's Gamble on a newly reclaimed Coruscant and the Rebels are working to establish a new government, but unfortunately for them, this task is more difficult than they foresaw. A deadly virus called Krytos is wiping out the indigenous population, causing rising tension between human and non-human citizens, and a counter revolution ensues as a result. Meanwhile, the trial for Rebel hero Tycho Celchu is under way and agents of provocateurs carry out their own act of terrorism, so all that stands to protect the developing government is rogue squadron. As the x-wing fighters scramble to save the Rebellion, Corran Horn, who was given up for dead in Ysanne Isard's inescapable prison, discovers he alone holds the key to freeing Coruscant form the Empire's remnants.

Of the first three X-Wing books, I enjoyed The Krytos Trap the most. More characters are fleshed out in this installment, especially Corran, and some familiar faces make an appearance throughout the book - most notably Leia and Luke. Stackpole also continues the detailed dogfights most readers are here to enjoy and he does not disappoint on that front. However, I will say that Tycho's trial was one aspect of the book I did not enjoy as much. I was expecting something different than a model of the justice system closely resembling the U.S. uses, and the whole point of the trial being diffused immediately once Corran Horn shows up makes this subplot seem meaningless in addition to stalling Tycho's character development - especially since he seems to just drop the fact he was wrongly accused. Moreover, I also felt like there were some parts that fell short, including how the Krytos issue seemed to be conveniently solved and how the spy in Rogue Squadron seemingly fell off in this book despite Erisi playing an important role in the first two books.

Final Thoughts: The Krytos Trap by Michael A. Stackpole is an enjoyable addition to the X-Wing series despite my gripes. The character development and interesting plot is enjoyable now that the series is picking up after the introduction phase. If you go the audiobook route, Marc Thompson's narration is always delightful and it certainly enhanced my experience with this book.

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