ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

As I noted in my previous Star Wars novel, The Paradise Snare, being invited to write in the Star Wars universe is rather like being adopted into a big family. Writers and fans share information, anecdotes, and stories of how much fun they’ve had in the Star Wars universe over the years.

I feel privileged to be the first writer to produce a book using the expanded information and visuals provided by the new special editions of Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi. It was very helpful seeing the newly restored films with their added footage—especially the scene where Jabba moves under his own steam.

With the caveat that all mistakes herein are my own, I’d like to thank the following people for their help:

First and foremost, my friend Steve Osmanski, who helped me with military, strategic, and technical information throughout, patiently answering my hundreds of questions, reviewing the battle scenes numerous times.

My friend Mary Frey, Steve’s wife, for allowing me to “borrow” her husband for hours on end as we planned battles and went over strategies.

Tim O’Brien, expert on every aspect of the Imperial military, who answered questions and gave patient advice.

(Steve and Tim O’Brien designed the battle plan for the Battle of Nar Shaddaa, and I am forever indebted to both of them for their expertise in Star Wars battlegaming.)

Bill, Peter, and Paul, of West End Games, who answered my endless questions about the Star Wars universe and its denizens.

Michael Capobianco, closet Star Wars fan, who used his experience as SFWA President to help me plot all the Hutt intrigues. Michael also kept my antique computers functioning.

Pat LoBrutto and Tom Dupree, my editors on this book. Thank you, gentlemen, for all the help, and for being patient and understanding. Thanks also to Evelyn Cainto, who keeps things running smoothly in the Bantam Star Wars department.

Nancy Wiesenfeld, top-notch copy editor.

Sue Rostoni of Lucasfilm for her painstaking review of the book.

My fellow Star Wars authors, who provided help, advice, and generously “lent” their characters so I could use them in this book: Vonda N. McIntyre, Michael A. Stackpole, Kristine Kathryn Rusch, and Kevin J. Anderson.

You, the Star Wars fans, for taking such an interest in this project from the very beginning.

And, as always, George Lucas, for starting it all, twenty years ago.

May the Force be with you!