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  • Star Wars: Specter of the Past: The Hand of Thrawn, Book 1

  • By: Timothy Zahn
  • Narrated by: Marc Thompson
  • Length: 14 hrs and 31 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (6,971 ratings)

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Star Wars: Specter of the Past: The Hand of Thrawn, Book 1

By: Timothy Zahn
Narrated by: Marc Thompson
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Editorial reviews

"Longtime fans should get considerable pleasure from this addition to the saga." ( Publishers Weekly)

Publisher's summary

Hugo Award-winning author Timothy Zahn makes his triumphant return to the Star Wars(r) universe in this first of an epic new two-volume series in which the New Republic must face its most dangerous enemy yet--a dead Imperial warlord.

The Empire stands at the brink of total collapse. But they have saved their most heinous plan for last. First a plot is hatched that could destroy the New Republic in a bloodbath of genocide and civil war. Then comes the shocking news that Grand Admiral Thrawn--the most cunning and ruthless warlord in history--has apparently returned from the dead to lead the Empire to a long-prophesied victory. Facing incredible odds, Han and Leia begin a desperate race against time to prevent the New Republic from unraveling in the face of two inexplicable threats--one from within and one from without. Meanwhile, Luke teams up with Mara Jade, using the Force to track down a mysterious pirate ship with a crew of clones. Yet, perhaps most dangerous of all, are those who lurk in the shadows, orchestrating a dark plan that will turn the New Republic and the Empire into their playthings.

©2011 Timothy Zahn (P)2013 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

"Zahn turns in his usual high-caliber performance." ( Library Journal)

Featured Article: Who Is Grand Admiral Thrawn? The Ultimate Guide


Looking for a rundown of what The Mandalorian's latest name-drop means for the Star Wars universe? We've got you covered. Whether you're a casual fan who was left asking, "Wait...who is Grand Admiral Thrawn?" or a certified fanatic overjoyed at the very mention of the big blue bad, it's never a bad time for a quick refresher. We’ve compiled the best listens featuring Thrawn that offer key information on one of the most chilling villains in the entire franchise.

Experience Star Wars Like Never Before

Experience Star Wars Like Never Before

Our stellar collection of intergalactic listens offers an expansive
universe of adventure anytime, anywhere.

What listeners say about Star Wars: Specter of the Past: The Hand of Thrawn, Book 1

Average customer ratings
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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Good story but kinda of rushed

seems a bit rushed and I would have been lost if it wasn't for my prior star wars knowledge and all stories suffer from having characters like Talon Carde

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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Captivating

Great from start to finish. Looking forward to more with all of these characters. Great narration!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Great series

The entire series regarding Thrawn are amazing! Highly recommend to any die hard fans of Thrawn!

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    5 out of 5 stars
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An Excellent…

Continuation of One of the Best Villians Ever!
Must read if you’ve enjoyed the first trilogy.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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A very nice book to continue with

A very nice performance overall and will continue with the next book in the series

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Voice narration is the best.

Great set up book. Can’t wait to read the next one. One of the best voice acting out there.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Slow to start, but worth the wait!

I know it's an older book being redone, but I'm really glad theu did it! and as the description says, the book is indeed slow to start, or rather slow to pick up. But it is worth the wait, as I say. Definitely worth a listen!

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    5 out of 5 stars
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The hand of Thrawn

One crisis after another, is Admiral Thrawn back!!
Stay tuned for the next book in the series !!!

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

Good not great

Much more political. Still a good story about abuse of power and trying find the middle ground from dictator to republic.

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    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

Disappointing

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

No. The story it tells does not really need telling. It teases you with expectations and hope for great stuff, but that payoff does not come in this book or its overwrought sequel.

Would you recommend Star Wars: Specter of the Past: The Hand of Thrawn, Book 1 to your friends? Why or why not?

No. The story it tells does not really need telling. It teases you with expectations and hope for great stuff, but that payoff does not come in this book or its overwrought sequel.

Which scene was your favorite?

I actually enjoyed quite a few of the scenes between Tierce and "Thrawn". Especially because of the return of Marc Thompson's amazing Thrawn voice.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No. The author spends too much time describing that which doesn't need describing, or focusing on ancillary characters, to listen in long stretches.

Any additional comments?

Once again, Zahn's plotlines are anchored on coincidence and the ridiculous deductive power of his various Sherlock Holmes clones.

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