Book review
So I read this in its single issues as it was coming out, which was a while ago, but I just made this goodreads account and need to review some things and this came to mind.
(Spoilers!)
I adored this series. As a person who reads a lot of comics, and have read a lot of Vader-centric Legends comics (and been keeping up with new canon), this is just awesome. I love the characterizations, I love the art, I love this story-line. It was great having the Star Wars and Vader run join up with this. We finally get to see just how ruthless and powerful Vader is when faced against the enemy (the Rebellion).
Even though Vader didn’t come face-to-face with Luke (IIRC), every time he knew Luke was there, the reactions were great. Obviously at the beginning, when Luke just charges straight in to him, and Vader first thinks it’s just a worthy opponent before realizing it’s Luke and (again IIRC) swerves to avoid him. They hit each other anyway and both crash land on the planet, hence the ‘Vader Down’ title. But also at the end when Luke gets captured by the Empire and Vader gives a little ‘no’ before force crushing the Imperial shuttle Luke’s in and saves him- Dad Vader FTW!
Something else which stood out for me was Leia, the scene specifically where Han wants to go and get Luke after the crash landing, to see if he survived. Leia, oh gosh Leia. Her reply, while understandable after what the Empire did to her, made me feel like her Anakin/Vader was showing. She didn’t want to go and get Luke, and knew this was the only chance to get Vader, kill him, and get her vengeance/justice. Not something I can see Padme or Luke doing, but definitely Anakin. It was interesting to see and while I agree it’s definitely something she would do, it was creepy seeing it nonetheless.
Her coming up against Vader was terrifying, even if it was momentarily. I suppose it makes sense not to have them together for more than a few seconds because, well, Vader would notice something was up with her (if he didn’t that would’ve been weird af, they’re related and the Force would indicate something). Then her at the end knocking out Aphra and saving Luke and Han who just seem continuously useless (I say that with a lot of love towards the character though).
Aphra again was a stand-out, mostly because I love her character. Also her kidnapped by the Rebels (Leia) at the end was great, and then paved way for what happened next in the Star Wars comics (I loved that too, but that’s for another review). I really really hope for another Vader/Star Wars crossover some time because I love the Skywalker’s being in such close proximity. And I certainly look forward to some more Dad!Vader moments. After reading this it definitely leaves me craving more so badly.
- Goodreads rating – 4.13
- REVIEW – NJ Pond