Catalyst (Star Wars)

A Rogue One Novel

By: James Luceno

Narrated by: Jonathan Davis

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Lauded Star Wars author James Luceno returns to pen an intense tale of ambition and betrayal that sets the stage for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

War is tearing the galaxy apart. For years the Republic and the Separatists have battled across the stars, each building more and more deadly technology in an attempt to win the war. As a member of Chancellor Palpatine’s top-secret Death Star project, Orson Krennic is determined to develop a superweapon before the Republic’s enemies can. And an old friend of Krennic’s, the brilliant scientist Galen Erso, could be the key.

Galen’s energy-focused research has captured the attention of both Krennic and his foes, making the scientist a crucial pawn in the galactic conflict. But after Krennic rescues Galen; his wife, Lyra; and their young daughter, Jyn, from Separatist kidnappers, the Erso family is deeply in Krennic’s debt. Krennic then offers Galen an extraordinary opportunity: to continue his scientific studies with every resource put utterly at his disposal. While Galen and Lyra believe that his energy research will be used purely in altruistic ways, Krennic has other plans that will finally make the Death Star a reality. Trapped in their benefactor’s tightening grasp, the Ersos must untangle Krennic’s web of deception to save themselves—and the entire galaxy.

Good Setup for Upcoming Movie

Catalyst is good to the SW universe in similar a way that the Silmarillon is good to the Lord of the Rings universe. It gives you good back story leading into but not right up to Rogue One. However, if you're looking for a book filled with the excitement and action you typically associate with the Star Wars films, don't expect to find it here.
This book is more about the subterfuge and trickery that takes place involving the Orso family and the development of the weapon portion of the Death Star.
Consequently, the action takes a back seat to the psychological drama going on behind the scenes.
You do get a broader picture of Grand Moff Tarkin in some of his earlier days as a Grand Moff and a clearer picture of his ruthlessness. You also are introduced to several other characters including another ambitious imperial officer and a smuggler who just happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, or maybe ultimately the opposite. I don't know that all the characters outlined in the book will appear in the movies, but certainly the background and understanding of their interactions with the characters in the movie will enrich the entire experience.


Johnathan Davis's performance is notable as well. He takes care to distinguish voices and accents to help give life to the words on the pages and give the listeners a sense of immersion in the SW universe. This is complimented by various background noises, musical quotes from the movies, and even the occasional sound effect on his voice itself.


Overall, it's an entertaining listen and/or read. Worth the time, if you love Star Wars and want to know more about the history of the mythos.

Good to meet a new family!

Excellent writing and performance. Great story in preparation for the new film! Started off a little slow and at times seemed verbose. However very important information regarding Khyber crystals and other important plot points. Also it was good to meet the Erso family and other new characters, as well as the connections to existing characters such as Tarkin.

A MUST LISTEN FOR THE ROGUE ONE FANS!!!

Jonathan Davis does a remarkable job narrating this epic prequel!!! Luceno molded this perfectly into the Star Wars canon. Can't wait for Episode VIII this winter!!!

Interesting story following Krennic and the Ersos

If you liked Rogue One, you’ll enjoy this novel following how Galen Erso was manipulated by Krennic, how the Death Star project began, plus more on the rivalry between Krennic and Tarkin. Another solid Star Wars novel with a good performance by Jonathan Davis. Only problem I really had was how stuffed in Saw Gerrera felt into the story.

Gives a lot more depth to Rogue One

Jonathan Davis does a great job narrating as always. Story was good & having listened to this made watching the Rogue One movie so much richer.