Star Wars: The Mask of Fear (Reign of the Empire)

By: Alexander Freed

Narrated by: January LaVoy

Before the Rebellion, the Empire reigns, in book one of a trilogy told through the eyes of Mon Mothma, Bail Organa, and Saw Gerrera—for fans of Andor.

“In order to ensure the security and continuing stability, the Republic will be reorganized into the first Galactic Empire! For a safe and secure society!”

With one speech and thunderous applause, Chancellor Palpatine brought the era of the Republic crashing down. In its place rose the Galactic Empire. Across the galaxy, people rejoiced and celebrated the end of war—and the promises of tomorrow. But that tomorrow was a lie. Instead, the galaxy became twisted by the cruelty and fear of the Emperor’s rule.

During that terrifying first year of tyranny, Mon Mothma, Saw Gerrera, and Bail Organa face the encroaching darkness. One day, they will be three architects of the Rebel Alliance. But first, each must find purpose and direction in a changing galaxy, while harboring their own secrets, fears, and hopes for a future that may never come unless they act.

©2025 Random House Worlds (P)2025 Random House Audio

Fantastic political thriller

Great characters portrayals examining how deeply embedded they are in their politics and how desperate is their fight against the looming darkness… unnerving to see in the face of what our own world faces today. Great sound effects like with most Star Wars productions, and excellent narrator. Recommended.

great spy and non jedi novel

January logs a solid performance. the universe has familiar scenes but bring a different and new i tricacies to the SW universe.

STOP USING SAW

Great book, But he don’t need to be in every single piece of Star Wars. He died in rogue one. All he does is kill our favorite teams like Tech from the Bad batch. Yall gotta stop with him.

Star Wars Politics

Love is contrast between Mothma and Organna.
My favorite parts of the book were parts 3 & 4.
Sue-jen was an enjoyable character.

Just what I wanted

A deeply political and thrilling story that dives into the ideology and motivations of various factions throughout the galaxy. Perfect.

The untold story of the Senate

I really enjoyed getting the behind the story of Senator Mathma and Organa. Took a bit to develope the characters but still enjoyed it. lots of action and intrigue.

Boring

Didn’t enjoy. It was long winded and boring. Politics with a backdrop of the star wars stories we know.

Fast ride...little too fast.

Fun read. Pacing is a bit quick considering all of the cannon tie in information for the storyline. Wish the meeting with our protagonists was drawn out a bit more to let the galaxy breathe while we witness the rebellions formation.

Hopefully a follow up will showcase the Emporer himself a bit more to explore his grip on power as he navigates a critical time for the young empire.

Star Wars Political Thriller

If you enjoyed Andor, you will enjoy this book too! See the early days of the Galactic Empire and the seeds of the Rebel Aliance. I'm ready for book 2!

So Good

Great story and great voicings. Couldn’t stop listening to it! The sound effects and music add so much to the listening experience.