Star Wars: Canto Bight

"Star Wars: Canto Bight" is an anthology novel that explores the opulent and decadent casino city of Canto Bight, first introduced in "Star Wars: The Last Jedi." The book is composed of four novellas, each written by a different author—Saladin Ahmed, Rae Carson, Mira Grant, and John Jackson Miller. Each story delves into the lives of various inhabitants and visitors of Canto Bight, revealing the glitz, glamour, and the darker undercurrents of this luxurious locale.

"Rules of the Game" by Saladin Ahmed: This story follows Kedpin Shoklop, a naïve and bumbling salesman who wins a trip to Canto Bight. His vacation takes unexpected turns as he gets entangled in a dangerous conspiracy.

"The Wine in Dreams" by Mira Grant: This tale focuses on Derla Pidys, a sommelier seeking to acquire a rare and mysterious wine with mystical properties. Her quest brings her into contact with enigmatic twin sisters and various other intriguing characters.

"Hear Nothing, See Nothing, Say Nothing" by Rae Carson: Lexo Sooger, a masseur with a dark past, must navigate Canto Bight's treacherous underworld to save his kidnapped daughter. The story is a mix of action and emotion, highlighting themes of loyalty and sacrifice.

"The Ride" by John Jackson Miller: This narrative follows Kaljach Sonmi, a professional gambler who teams up with a pair of alien brothers in a high-stakes game that could change their lives forever.

The quality and engagement level of each story can vary. While some novellas are compelling and richly detailed, others might not resonate as strongly with all readers, leading to an uneven reading experience.

The book excels in its vivid and immersive depiction of Canto Bight. Each story paints a detailed picture of the city's opulence and underlying darkness, enriching the setting introduced in "The Last Jedi."

The anthology introduces a wide array of characters, from the hapless salesman Kedpin Shoklop to the determined masseur Lexo Sooger. This diversity in characters and their stories adds depth and variety to the book.

Each novella stands on its own, making the book accessible for readers who may not be deeply familiar with the Star Wars universe. The stories are self-contained, offering satisfying narratives that don't require extensive knowledge of the larger saga.

The stories explore themes such as greed, ambition, loyalty, and sacrifice, providing not just entertainment but also thoughtful reflections on these universal aspects of the human (and alien) experience.

"Star Wars: Canto Bight" is a good addition to the Star Wars literary collection, particularly for fans interested in exploring the diverse and often hidden corners of the galaxy far, far away. While the lack of a central plot and variable story quality might be drawbacks, the rich world-building, diverse characters, and exploration of universal themes make it a worthwhile read. For those intrigued by the glitz and glamour of Canto Bight, this anthology offers a deeper look into the lives and stories that make up this luxurious yet treacherous city.