Andrew's Review of Dark Tide II: Ruin

3/5 Rancors - The conclusion of the Dark Tide Duology, Michael Stackpole's Ruin resumes the Corran Horn-centered storyline started in Onslaught. Unlike that first volume, here Mr. Stackpole frequently writes scenes from the Yuuzhan Vong point-of-view. Their war leader Shedao Shai has become fixated on the remains of his ancestors that were desecrated by Corran in the prior volume (from Shai's perspective). In the grander scheme of things, the Vong invasion continues to roll into the galaxy while the Senate squabbles and the Jedi attempt to define their role in countering the assault.

Ruin delves further into the overarching Vong philosophy. We are introduced to the Embrace of Pain, a ritualistic torture device they use to become closer to reality. In the most gripping storyline of the book, pacifist Caamasi Senator Elegos A'Kla journeys to meet with the Vong and foster understanding between the Republic and the invaders. The interplay between Elegos and Shedao Shai is fascinating as it reveals key cultural differences which appear insurmountable. The tension is high, as Elegos is well aware he could meet with a violent end at any moment, and the final end point of the relationship is the most memorable scene in the book.

Ruin's primary action piece centers on the invasion of the peaceful jungle world Ithor. It is well-written but the tone of these stories continues to be somewhat oppressive when compared to earlier "high-adventure" Star Wars tales. Planets burning, numerous decapitations, constant mentions of pain, droids being destroyed en masse: it is grim stuff. The New Jedi Order authors were simply working within the larger framework of a story designed to bring "darkness" to the galaxy far, far away, but there is a sense of diminished fun overall, and here it is noticeable when compared to Mr. Stackpole's earlier works.

Other story elements work satisfactorily within the larger plot: Luke and Mara set off after a rogue Jedi seeking a superweapon, Han is still locked away grieving on Coruscant, and Leia negotiates with the remnants of the Empire to gain their assistance in the war. The return of Admiral Pallaeon is certainly welcome and seeing the New Republic and Imperial Remnant work together to repel the invaders is gratifying when taken in its in-universe historical context. The net result is Ruin certainly continues the story of the Yuuzhan Vong invasion capably enough, but beyond the plot focused on Elegos A'Kla, it does not prove to be one of the more memorable entries.