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Star Wars: Jedi Apprentice #16
Star Wars: The Call to Vengeance
Qui-Gon Jinn is a man on the edge. His heart has been shattered. His beliefs have been destroyed. And now he is dangerously close to stepping over a line that no Jedi dares to cross.
He wants revenge.
His fellow Jedi--his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Jedi Council member Mace Windu--will try to stop him. But when Qui-Gon strikes out on his own, anything can happen. Revenge is not a Jedi trait . . . but it is a human one. Can Qui-Gon separate his personal feelings from his Jedi training.
He wants revenge.
His fellow Jedi--his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Jedi Council member Mace Windu--will try to stop him. But when Qui-Gon strikes out on his own, anything can happen. Revenge is not a Jedi trait . . . but it is a human one. Can Qui-Gon separate his personal feelings from his Jedi training.
144 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2001
12 people are currently reading
1415 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 3, 2019
Actual rating is 2.5 stars.
This is part of a series which has separate story plots. This series is intended for the younger audience and covers the relationship between Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan. In this one, Qui-Gon is grieving and is headed towards the dark side of the force. Will Obi-Wan be enough to save Qui-Gon from seeking revenge and turning towards the dark side?
I was all in for this book as I was really looking forward to exploring Qui-Gon and how he flirts with the dark side. Sadly, this book only poked at it and never really dived into this aspect. I am guessing the reason for this is that the audience these books are meant for. I did like how Qui-Gon was saved from the dark side and it was a nice nod to the movies and the previous books. The highlight of this series continues to be Obi-Wan and his growth. I like how we have seen him grow and become more confident. As for the political intrigue that was background for this book, it reminded me of the political intrigue that was in The Phantom Menace. I know it is needed for the story but I am never really going to truly enjoy it.
If you are a fan of Obi-Wan I suggest this series. The look into his character has been excellent and I am wondering how the ride will end as I approach the end of this series.
This is part of a series which has separate story plots. This series is intended for the younger audience and covers the relationship between Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan. In this one, Qui-Gon is grieving and is headed towards the dark side of the force. Will Obi-Wan be enough to save Qui-Gon from seeking revenge and turning towards the dark side?
I was all in for this book as I was really looking forward to exploring Qui-Gon and how he flirts with the dark side. Sadly, this book only poked at it and never really dived into this aspect. I am guessing the reason for this is that the audience these books are meant for. I did like how Qui-Gon was saved from the dark side and it was a nice nod to the movies and the previous books. The highlight of this series continues to be Obi-Wan and his growth. I like how we have seen him grow and become more confident. As for the political intrigue that was background for this book, it reminded me of the political intrigue that was in The Phantom Menace. I know it is needed for the story but I am never really going to truly enjoy it.
If you are a fan of Obi-Wan I suggest this series. The look into his character has been excellent and I am wondering how the ride will end as I approach the end of this series.
April 7, 2014
A beautifully touching and satisfying end to this story arc in the Jedi Apprentice series. Qui-Gon's character has grown in leaps and bounds within the last three books. And even though it was brutal to see him suffer so much heartbreak and turmoil, I am very proud of the Jedi he has become. :) Another fantastic book in this series which I would recommend to any Star Wars fan!
Super tired! :/ More detailed review to come! :) :) :)
Super tired! :/ More detailed review to come! :) :) :)
January 2, 2026
⭐ A Truly Awful End to a Terrible Trilogy
This is an easy one: 1-star read. Nothing worked for me in this book. It is the conclusion to what has easily been the weakest trilogy in the entire Jedi Apprentice series, and sadly, it ends just as poorly as it began.
The biggest problem is the ridiculous love story between Qui-Gon and Tahl, which is discussed at length yet never makes any sense. It did not work in the previous two books, and it absolutely does not work here. The Jedi Code, their years of experience, and the entire foundation of their characters are simply pushed aside for a romance that feels forced, out of character, and completely unnecessary. Worst of all, this story consumes Qui-Gon and sidelines everything and everyone else around him.
Obi-Wan is the only real saving grace. He remains the voice of reason, but even he feels like a secondary character in his own series. The plot gives him very little meaningful involvement and treats him more like an observer than an active Jedi apprentice.
The only elements with genuine potential were Mace Windu and Bant. Chronologically, this might be one of the earliest appearances of Mace Windu outside The Phantom Menace, and Bant continues to be one of the most genuinely warm and likable characters in the series. Unfortunately, they are both sidelined, barely used, and ultimately wasted.
Overall, this entire trilogy felt like it could have been condensed into one single full-length novel. Instead, we get three books that drag, repeat themselves, and never justify their place in the series. It was a deeply disappointing entry and easily one of the worst arcs so far.
This is an easy one: 1-star read. Nothing worked for me in this book. It is the conclusion to what has easily been the weakest trilogy in the entire Jedi Apprentice series, and sadly, it ends just as poorly as it began.
The biggest problem is the ridiculous love story between Qui-Gon and Tahl, which is discussed at length yet never makes any sense. It did not work in the previous two books, and it absolutely does not work here. The Jedi Code, their years of experience, and the entire foundation of their characters are simply pushed aside for a romance that feels forced, out of character, and completely unnecessary. Worst of all, this story consumes Qui-Gon and sidelines everything and everyone else around him.
Obi-Wan is the only real saving grace. He remains the voice of reason, but even he feels like a secondary character in his own series. The plot gives him very little meaningful involvement and treats him more like an observer than an active Jedi apprentice.
The only elements with genuine potential were Mace Windu and Bant. Chronologically, this might be one of the earliest appearances of Mace Windu outside The Phantom Menace, and Bant continues to be one of the most genuinely warm and likable characters in the series. Unfortunately, they are both sidelined, barely used, and ultimately wasted.
Overall, this entire trilogy felt like it could have been condensed into one single full-length novel. Instead, we get three books that drag, repeat themselves, and never justify their place in the series. It was a deeply disappointing entry and easily one of the worst arcs so far.
December 15, 2022
Fun read with action and a certain someone being angrier and more vengeful than his usual self who was NOT those things at all, and all the while not getting off character, so that wasn't a problem at all.
Would recommend to anyone that's willing to look away at the fact that the series is targeted at a younger audience so don't expect the grim dark story of Darth Malgus or Darth Bane. But DO expect a fun Jedi adventure with the familiar faces you know and like.
Would recommend to anyone that's willing to look away at the fact that the series is targeted at a younger audience so don't expect the grim dark story of Darth Malgus or Darth Bane. But DO expect a fun Jedi adventure with the familiar faces you know and like.
July 4, 2021
2021 Review:
What a convoluted mess. This book tries to show that Qui-gon created a self fulfilling prophecy. But having a villain throw that at him and not having him really be thinking that maybe he overstepped for two books feels more like the author trying to wrestle control back than an organic arc. It also doesn't work because in your attempt to show it was a self fulfilling prophecy brought about because Qui-gon's interventions planted more doubt in Tahl about her suitability for training a Padawn drove her to make the choices she made feels forced because the only reason she died was because the twins didn't give a dang about anything except power. I think Tahl might have still died even if Qui-gon hadn't come because the twins were still using her. The arc required Tahl to be an easily manipulated idiot to work. The twins undercut her capabilities in this arc. Granted Tahl isn't thinking straight so she would still probably have died even if Qui-gon didn't come because he still would have been an overbearing jerk at the Temple. I think what rankles me the most is that the only reason this arc exists is to kill off Tahl and emotionally torture Qui-gon. Qui-gon know when to help her and not to when it's nothing that pertains to her duties as a Jedi, but when it pertains to her missions and safety he doesn't respect her boundaries or her capabilities. This arc never has him learn to trust her in those areas. It passes it off as him not realizing he's in love with her, and he never had to learn to trust her to be capable on a mission or in a fight.
Originally 3 stars Original Rant:
Right. Its not that I think it Impossible for this arc to be good. I just think there had to be a way to write it that didn't involve having characters feeling out of haracter, be idiots, or full of plot contrivances. The two sisters literally destabilize theirown government, allow if not order massacres and murders of close friends and family, and of Jedi because daddy issues, lust for power, and being entitled brats who think their name should get them whatever they want and allow them to do whatever they want. They enjoy all of this and never show remorse the wee psychopaths. Also, we never actually find out who assassinated their father, so were they also behind that? Yikes... Only being arrested at the end of the book isn't enough for all these brats put the characters and readers through. I hated how this arc was written as a kid and how truly pointless Tahl's death is and I still do. I think Tahl and Qui-gon should have just been friends. Have Tahl be capable like she was in every other book so Qui-gon has to realize he is not trusting her and instead of just quarreling with each other, have discussions about how she feels like everyone is being overbearing and protective of her. Have that be why she doesn't bring Bant along. Have Tahl not be rescued by Qui-gon when her cover is blown. Have Tahl as a pov character for some of it. Have Bant go off after a few weeks to find Tahl. Then Qui-gon and Obi-wan can be sent to retrieve Bant and it's not them disobeying the council because Qui-gon had a vision of Tahl dying and thinks he has to be with her to keep her safe. Tahl could contact them and ask that they be her eyes and ears at the palace and among the workers since she isn't sure who to trust. Have her suspect the twins because she's a good detective, as shown in other books in this series instead of the easily manipulated and gullible idiot she is in this book and though she trusts them, there are to many coincidences and they lied to her to get her there. Have her kidnapping show she put up a fight. Have it be because she figured it all out not because she got duped by two psychopaths and have it be before she can tell Qui-gon her suspicions and evidence. Have Qui-gon follow protocol and contact the Jedi Order immediately then go to find Tahl. Book two of the arc could then remain the same except now with delays so other Jedi can't get there in time. Have Tahl already be injured prior to being poisoned by the tranquilizer or whatever it is her kidnapper is poisoning her with so that it makes sense that she'd die. Qui-gon would know the truth but have to find more evidence, and they wouldn't be duped, but the public do6esnt believe the daughters of their hero are the bad guys. Qui-gon would still be struggling with the dark side, but it wouldn't feel so contrived, and Tahl's death would have felt more earned and less like it's there just to emotionally manipulate Qui-gon. They'd be having to prove what happened and let us see the fall out.
What a convoluted mess. This book tries to show that Qui-gon created a self fulfilling prophecy. But having a villain throw that at him and not having him really be thinking that maybe he overstepped for two books feels more like the author trying to wrestle control back than an organic arc. It also doesn't work because in your attempt to show it was a self fulfilling prophecy brought about because Qui-gon's interventions planted more doubt in Tahl about her suitability for training a Padawn drove her to make the choices she made feels forced because the only reason she died was because the twins didn't give a dang about anything except power. I think Tahl might have still died even if Qui-gon hadn't come because the twins were still using her. The arc required Tahl to be an easily manipulated idiot to work. The twins undercut her capabilities in this arc. Granted Tahl isn't thinking straight so she would still probably have died even if Qui-gon didn't come because he still would have been an overbearing jerk at the Temple. I think what rankles me the most is that the only reason this arc exists is to kill off Tahl and emotionally torture Qui-gon. Qui-gon know when to help her and not to when it's nothing that pertains to her duties as a Jedi, but when it pertains to her missions and safety he doesn't respect her boundaries or her capabilities. This arc never has him learn to trust her in those areas. It passes it off as him not realizing he's in love with her, and he never had to learn to trust her to be capable on a mission or in a fight.
Originally 3 stars Original Rant:
Right. Its not that I think it Impossible for this arc to be good. I just think there had to be a way to write it that didn't involve having characters feeling out of haracter, be idiots, or full of plot contrivances. The two sisters literally destabilize theirown government, allow if not order massacres and murders of close friends and family, and of Jedi because daddy issues, lust for power, and being entitled brats who think their name should get them whatever they want and allow them to do whatever they want. They enjoy all of this and never show remorse the wee psychopaths. Also, we never actually find out who assassinated their father, so were they also behind that? Yikes... Only being arrested at the end of the book isn't enough for all these brats put the characters and readers through. I hated how this arc was written as a kid and how truly pointless Tahl's death is and I still do. I think Tahl and Qui-gon should have just been friends. Have Tahl be capable like she was in every other book so Qui-gon has to realize he is not trusting her and instead of just quarreling with each other, have discussions about how she feels like everyone is being overbearing and protective of her. Have that be why she doesn't bring Bant along. Have Tahl not be rescued by Qui-gon when her cover is blown. Have Tahl as a pov character for some of it. Have Bant go off after a few weeks to find Tahl. Then Qui-gon and Obi-wan can be sent to retrieve Bant and it's not them disobeying the council because Qui-gon had a vision of Tahl dying and thinks he has to be with her to keep her safe. Tahl could contact them and ask that they be her eyes and ears at the palace and among the workers since she isn't sure who to trust. Have her suspect the twins because she's a good detective, as shown in other books in this series instead of the easily manipulated and gullible idiot she is in this book and though she trusts them, there are to many coincidences and they lied to her to get her there. Have her kidnapping show she put up a fight. Have it be because she figured it all out not because she got duped by two psychopaths and have it be before she can tell Qui-gon her suspicions and evidence. Have Qui-gon follow protocol and contact the Jedi Order immediately then go to find Tahl. Book two of the arc could then remain the same except now with delays so other Jedi can't get there in time. Have Tahl already be injured prior to being poisoned by the tranquilizer or whatever it is her kidnapper is poisoning her with so that it makes sense that she'd die. Qui-gon would know the truth but have to find more evidence, and they wouldn't be duped, but the public do6esnt believe the daughters of their hero are the bad guys. Qui-gon would still be struggling with the dark side, but it wouldn't feel so contrived, and Tahl's death would have felt more earned and less like it's there just to emotionally manipulate Qui-gon. They'd be having to prove what happened and let us see the fall out.
May 8, 2025
When our favorite Jedi, Master Qui-Gon Jinn, loses the love of his life it's enough to send him to the edge - of the dark side.
A wonderful addition to an excellent Star Wars series.
RIP!
A wonderful addition to an excellent Star Wars series.
RIP!
April 3, 2016
Star Wars Legends Project #56
Background: The Call to Vengeance was released in December 2001. It was written by Jude Watson.
The Call to Vengeance begins immediately after The Death of Hope (my review), 41 years before the Battle of Yavin and 9 years before The Phantom Menace. Most of the surviving characters from the previous two books return, along with Obi-Wan's fellow apprentice Bant and Mace Windu.
Summary: Tahl is dead, a victim of the ongoing power struggles on New Apsolon, and Qui-Gon Jinn is consumed by grief and a desire for revenge. Shortly after Mace Windu and Tahl's apprentice Bant arrive, Qui-Gon goes rogue to pursue those responsible on his own. Obi-Wan, struggling with his own grief and feelings of guilt, fears that he may be lost to the Dark Side. And none of the Jedi fully understands how far the true masterminds are willing to go in order to get what they want.
Review: I'm not sure how much I have to say about this book that I didn't already say about the last book. It hardly feels like a separate volume, really, considering the huge emotional cliffhanger that we left off on last time . . . The story wasn't even close to over, and there was no closure at all. I didn't notice any glaring problems with the plot in this book like I did with the last one, though the big "twist" reveal did kind of seem to come out of left field. I'm not confident that the details established in previous volumes actually fit all that well with the truth behind what's supposedly been going on. But since I'm forced to either be impossibly vague or go full-spoiler, I'll move on.
Things move very quickly now that everything has been set up, and I read almost the entire thing in a single sitting. The insights into Qui-Gon's thought processes are some of the best looks at who he is at a character that we've gotten. My one complaint is that the book had to keep hopping back to Obi-Wan's perspective, which I really wasn't that interested in by comparison to Qui-Gon trying to restrain himself from going full Taken on everyone he runs into. Obi-Wan's emotional journey is pretty compelling in its own right, and he is the level-headed investigator this time around, he's just not who I wanted to hear about by comparison to Qui-Gon.
The actual plots in this entire series have been weak-to-average, but this book demonstrates better than any other so far how little the series is about plot, and how much it is about characters. As such, I don't really know where this series has left to go, story-wise, in its last couple of books. And, frankly, I'm not all that interested by the plot summaries . . . but I'm really excited to see where the characters end up as the series winds down. How will Qui-Gon figure out how to be a Jedi again in the wake of this crippling loss, and how will his relationship with Obi-Wan be affected in the process? These are the questions that will keep me turning pages.
B
Background: The Call to Vengeance was released in December 2001. It was written by Jude Watson.
The Call to Vengeance begins immediately after The Death of Hope (my review), 41 years before the Battle of Yavin and 9 years before The Phantom Menace. Most of the surviving characters from the previous two books return, along with Obi-Wan's fellow apprentice Bant and Mace Windu.
Summary: Tahl is dead, a victim of the ongoing power struggles on New Apsolon, and Qui-Gon Jinn is consumed by grief and a desire for revenge. Shortly after Mace Windu and Tahl's apprentice Bant arrive, Qui-Gon goes rogue to pursue those responsible on his own. Obi-Wan, struggling with his own grief and feelings of guilt, fears that he may be lost to the Dark Side. And none of the Jedi fully understands how far the true masterminds are willing to go in order to get what they want.
Review: I'm not sure how much I have to say about this book that I didn't already say about the last book. It hardly feels like a separate volume, really, considering the huge emotional cliffhanger that we left off on last time . . . The story wasn't even close to over, and there was no closure at all. I didn't notice any glaring problems with the plot in this book like I did with the last one, though the big "twist" reveal did kind of seem to come out of left field. I'm not confident that the details established in previous volumes actually fit all that well with the truth behind what's supposedly been going on. But since I'm forced to either be impossibly vague or go full-spoiler, I'll move on.
Things move very quickly now that everything has been set up, and I read almost the entire thing in a single sitting. The insights into Qui-Gon's thought processes are some of the best looks at who he is at a character that we've gotten. My one complaint is that the book had to keep hopping back to Obi-Wan's perspective, which I really wasn't that interested in by comparison to Qui-Gon trying to restrain himself from going full Taken on everyone he runs into. Obi-Wan's emotional journey is pretty compelling in its own right, and he is the level-headed investigator this time around, he's just not who I wanted to hear about by comparison to Qui-Gon.
The actual plots in this entire series have been weak-to-average, but this book demonstrates better than any other so far how little the series is about plot, and how much it is about characters. As such, I don't really know where this series has left to go, story-wise, in its last couple of books. And, frankly, I'm not all that interested by the plot summaries . . . but I'm really excited to see where the characters end up as the series winds down. How will Qui-Gon figure out how to be a Jedi again in the wake of this crippling loss, and how will his relationship with Obi-Wan be affected in the process? These are the questions that will keep me turning pages.
B
January 9, 2015
Knowing the book was written for youth, I didn't expect much with any of the series. I had read the first few a decade back and decided to read them all for fun. Up until Book #15 I had no large gripes.
The Death of Hope and The Call to Vengeance, however, have a terrible plotline. Not only is it simplistic and way too convenient,
SPOILERS(Initially Qui-Gon can only purchase one droid, because they are so hard to get hands on. This of course causes issues when that one droid is damaged. Next book, the author takes one sentence to tell how Qui-Gon went back and bought two more with no issue, of course so this could serve to implicate him later.)
but also against everything known in the Star Wars universe.
Love is not an acceptable emotion in the Jedi Order. Yet Qui-Gon seems to have very little misgivings about his feelings for Tahl. Worse, he spends the whole book in anger or other dark emotions, and the author only has Qui-Gon reflect on it a few times with an "I don't care" attitude. It was very hard to believe this sudden, complete shift in Qui-Gon's character.
The Death of Hope and The Call to Vengeance, however, have a terrible plotline. Not only is it simplistic and way too convenient,
SPOILERS(Initially Qui-Gon can only purchase one droid, because they are so hard to get hands on. This of course causes issues when that one droid is damaged. Next book, the author takes one sentence to tell how Qui-Gon went back and bought two more with no issue, of course so this could serve to implicate him later.)
but also against everything known in the Star Wars universe.
Love is not an acceptable emotion in the Jedi Order. Yet Qui-Gon seems to have very little misgivings about his feelings for Tahl. Worse, he spends the whole book in anger or other dark emotions, and the author only has Qui-Gon reflect on it a few times with an "I don't care" attitude. It was very hard to believe this sudden, complete shift in Qui-Gon's character.
January 26, 2020
This was actually... anticlimactic.
Qui-Gon was just losing it, absolutely unable to take in any information other than his own emotions, and then at the last second, he just stops and comes back to himself? It makes a little more sense that it was Tahl's spirit speaking to him and that's why he stops, because at least then you can infer some metaphysical power to it. It will be interesting to see how/whether he can pick up the pieces.
At least I was right about both of the girls being in on it. I've read Master and Apprentice, and know not to trust blonde teenage princesses.
Qui-Gon was just losing it, absolutely unable to take in any information other than his own emotions, and then at the last second, he just stops and comes back to himself? It makes a little more sense that it was Tahl's spirit speaking to him and that's why he stops, because at least then you can infer some metaphysical power to it. It will be interesting to see how/whether he can pick up the pieces.
At least I was right about both of the girls being in on it. I've read Master and Apprentice, and know not to trust blonde teenage princesses.
August 11, 2012
Readers, beware: Reading this sixteenth novel in the Jedi Apprentice series will cause you to never look at Qui-Gon Jinn the same way again. It's still just as good as the previous books, though; still, I would again ask parents and teachers to "screen" this book before handing it to a child.
June 3, 2015
Qui Gonn is on the edge of sanity as he goes after the people that killed Jedi Knight Tahl, to make matters worse he is being framed for murders that happen in conjunction with his investigation. Can Obi Wan bring his master back from the edge?
April 3, 2019
It is good to know that other Jedi can love, other than Anakin, and Jedi are very human as to reacting to the death of a loved one. One reason why I love Qui-Gon is because they show that Jedi are human too, regardless of the path they choose to follow.
February 29, 2024
The Call to Vengeance by Jude Watson
Adventurous, challenging, emotional,
mysterious, reflective, sad, and tense.
Fast-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5 Stars (leaning even lower)
I've read The Death of Hope (#15) and The Call to Vengeance (#16) back to back...so a lot of my thoughts on the first book, transfer to this one, too.
As we have been taught by Yoda...that these attachments lead to the Dark Side.
...and Yes, I know that in Legends material...there is an misunderstanding of what George Lucas (the Creator) meant, but still...in this part of the story, Qui-Gon Jinn has gone "off the reservation". He's openly defied the Jedi Council (which in and of itself...is not central to the problem...for they have been/will be in the wrong, from time to time), but the idea that Qui-Gon is in FULL blown revenge mode...at the moment...is a REAL problem.
I felt for Obi-Wan Kenobi during this story, for he JUST become a true padawan with Qui-Gon, when this change has happened. He trusts Qui-Gon, but he's also worried for him. He needs to learn to trust the Force, and his Master, but then again...IF Qui-Gon is in full blown revenge over the death of Tahl, then this is a short step to the Dark Side, and Obi-Wan needs to support his Master, but also cover his Master (bringing in help to support him in his need). This is a "knife's edge" to say the least.
So, I am enjoying the tension, but what is the point of the story for the readers (who are mostly Middle Grade age...I'm the outlier, being in my late fifties)? One of the great things about "most" of the Star Wars stories...is there IS a point to all of them...and it is to teach us a moral lesson, so that we can become better people in real life. So, I'm struggling with the reader's perspective. Why?
Now, I know that Qui-Gon is going to be alright, and that Obi-Wan will survive this, but then have his own crisis later in his life.
But, what am I supposed to get from this arc? Please. I really want to know.
I'm nearing the end of it, only four more books, but WHY?
Adventurous, challenging, emotional,
mysterious, reflective, sad, and tense.
Fast-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5 Stars (leaning even lower)
I've read The Death of Hope (#15) and The Call to Vengeance (#16) back to back...so a lot of my thoughts on the first book, transfer to this one, too.
As we have been taught by Yoda...that these attachments lead to the Dark Side.
...and Yes, I know that in Legends material...there is an misunderstanding of what George Lucas (the Creator) meant, but still...in this part of the story, Qui-Gon Jinn has gone "off the reservation". He's openly defied the Jedi Council (which in and of itself...is not central to the problem...for they have been/will be in the wrong, from time to time), but the idea that Qui-Gon is in FULL blown revenge mode...at the moment...is a REAL problem.
I felt for Obi-Wan Kenobi during this story, for he JUST become a true padawan with Qui-Gon, when this change has happened. He trusts Qui-Gon, but he's also worried for him. He needs to learn to trust the Force, and his Master, but then again...IF Qui-Gon is in full blown revenge over the death of Tahl, then this is a short step to the Dark Side, and Obi-Wan needs to support his Master, but also cover his Master (bringing in help to support him in his need). This is a "knife's edge" to say the least.
So, I am enjoying the tension, but what is the point of the story for the readers (who are mostly Middle Grade age...I'm the outlier, being in my late fifties)? One of the great things about "most" of the Star Wars stories...is there IS a point to all of them...and it is to teach us a moral lesson, so that we can become better people in real life. So, I'm struggling with the reader's perspective. Why?
Now, I know that Qui-Gon is going to be alright, and that Obi-Wan will survive this, but then have his own crisis later in his life.
But, what am I supposed to get from this arc? Please. I really want to know.
I'm nearing the end of it, only four more books, but WHY?
August 3, 2018
Here we get the end of the three part book mini-series where we watch Qui-Gon sort of just lose his mind over the death of Tahl. I knew he was going to go off alone, almost go Dark Side, but at the last minute fall back. Which is what happened. The end. No I'm kidding, it was great to see a little character development and see why Qui-Gon is sort of a diminished person later in life. He lost his friend and love while being kind of pushed on in an existence he wasn't ready to go back to. If Tahl had lived you bet he would've chosen to leave the Order to be with her. Yes he would've felt guilty for leaving Obi-Wan behind but when it came down to it he had more connection to Tahl than Obi-Wan at this moment in life. I wasn't surprised he went a little dark, but it was a contrast to see him fall back and let Obi-Wan catch him where Anakin just plowed right over Obi-Wan to go full dark and lose his epic mind.
That being said, poor Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon. You just knew this was the moment of change in their relationship. Qui-Gon will still teach and mentor Obi-Wan but from this moment on it'll be harder to connect, Qui-Gon isn't going to be as invested in his future, he'll get him through his Jedi training, but I suspect when Qui-Gon died on Naboo he was secretly ready and at peace with death. To me, this is a man who was ready to go and that's what made Obi-Wan able to accept Qui-Gon's death as much as it hurt later. It wasn't a life ended too soon or with regrets, it was a life ended with a sense of final peace. This book is where we see the beginning of the end for Qui-Gon Jinn.
That being said, poor Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon. You just knew this was the moment of change in their relationship. Qui-Gon will still teach and mentor Obi-Wan but from this moment on it'll be harder to connect, Qui-Gon isn't going to be as invested in his future, he'll get him through his Jedi training, but I suspect when Qui-Gon died on Naboo he was secretly ready and at peace with death. To me, this is a man who was ready to go and that's what made Obi-Wan able to accept Qui-Gon's death as much as it hurt later. It wasn't a life ended too soon or with regrets, it was a life ended with a sense of final peace. This book is where we see the beginning of the end for Qui-Gon Jinn.
February 24, 2021
¡Acabamos la trilogía de Nuevo Ápsolon! Como ya se veía del anterior, Qui-Gon está en plan venganza total por SPOILER y no escucha a razones, él a lo suyo, a tope de Lado Oscuro. Le ha faltado un plis para unirse al equipo rojo... quién lo diría, con lo recto que es este señor.
Mi pobrecito Obi-Wan no ha hecho más que sufrir como una madre con un niño adolescente que se junta con los punkis de clase, Qui-Gon avísame donde vas, Qui-Gon ya no confias en mí, Qui-Gon que estás yendo por mal camino y no me escuchas. Bueno, que le sirva el mal rato de precedente para cuando tenga su padawan rebelde que tanto se dejará llevar por el odio (ouch...).
Estoy un poco hasta el toto que la premisa narrativa sea siempre el planeta de turno con dos facciones enemigas en guerra civil o en proceso electoral, pero supongo que no puedo pedir peras al olmo. A los Jedis los llaman como negociadores neutrales en estos berenjenales así que canónicamente está todo correcto, pero no sé Jude Watson, danos alguna misioncilla diferente de vez en cuando.
Mi pobrecito Obi-Wan no ha hecho más que sufrir como una madre con un niño adolescente que se junta con los punkis de clase, Qui-Gon avísame donde vas, Qui-Gon ya no confias en mí, Qui-Gon que estás yendo por mal camino y no me escuchas. Bueno, que le sirva el mal rato de precedente para cuando tenga su padawan rebelde que tanto se dejará llevar por el odio (ouch...).
Estoy un poco hasta el toto que la premisa narrativa sea siempre el planeta de turno con dos facciones enemigas en guerra civil o en proceso electoral, pero supongo que no puedo pedir peras al olmo. A los Jedis los llaman como negociadores neutrales en estos berenjenales así que canónicamente está todo correcto, pero no sé Jude Watson, danos alguna misioncilla diferente de vez en cuando.
January 27, 2024
4.25 🌟
Read aloud with my boys, ages 6 and 8.
This was good. Complicated emotions for Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan. It interested us to see how they dealt with it all. The grief and emotional distance they had to work through in this book brought back some old early-in-the-series emotions for us. Though things definitely don't look the same as they did 3-4 years ago for the Jedi.
Obi-Wan has been maturing nicely through the series but it especially stood out to me in this one.
I personally had a hard time with the abundance of characters in this one. Just the amount was hard for me to keep straight and sort through in my ideas. I also had a hard time following all the fine details of the Absolutes and Workers stuff. The 6 year old agreed with me on this but the 8 year old had no trouble, he tells me. Haha.
I let them stay up too late to finish this tonight. But I got bribed with some good back rubs so it's all good.
Read aloud with my boys, ages 6 and 8.
This was good. Complicated emotions for Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan. It interested us to see how they dealt with it all. The grief and emotional distance they had to work through in this book brought back some old early-in-the-series emotions for us. Though things definitely don't look the same as they did 3-4 years ago for the Jedi.
Obi-Wan has been maturing nicely through the series but it especially stood out to me in this one.
I personally had a hard time with the abundance of characters in this one. Just the amount was hard for me to keep straight and sort through in my ideas. I also had a hard time following all the fine details of the Absolutes and Workers stuff. The 6 year old agreed with me on this but the 8 year old had no trouble, he tells me. Haha.
I let them stay up too late to finish this tonight. But I got bribed with some good back rubs so it's all good.
April 6, 2023
You know what? I'm just going to ignore the flagrant disregard for continuity (re: Jedi and attachments) within the pages I just read and tell you how much I love this book. In this series, we've seen how an apprentice can allow overwhelming emotions to lead to mistakes - and now we get to see the Master grapple with the very same lesson. Jedi are sentient beings too. It's how they handle their anger that sets them apart. That's the point Watson was so brilliantly displaying here.
Perhaps a part of me enjoys watching Qui-Gon Jinn go on a rampage a little too much. Confession time: whenever I played the video game of The Phantom Menace, I ALWAYS turned Qui-Gon into The Killer of Mos Espa. So much fun. What a great game. Ahem.
Perhaps a part of me enjoys watching Qui-Gon Jinn go on a rampage a little too much. Confession time: whenever I played the video game of The Phantom Menace, I ALWAYS turned Qui-Gon into The Killer of Mos Espa. So much fun. What a great game. Ahem.
February 1, 2023
Nothing new with this one, but we finally wrap up this otherwise mediocre 3 part story on the boring planet of New Apsolon.
Obi-Wan and Qui Gon do their usual thing and, as usual, manage to save the planet from those who wish to do harm to others.
I suppose this book’s one saving grace is that, for once, the cover is pretty accurate. The Call to Vengeance does a great job of making Qui Gon seem far more emotional and more of the “gray area” Jedi most fans have always thought him to be. We see him question Jedi principles, give into rage, and very nearly lose himself to the dark side in the process. We also get to continue to watch Obi Wan grow and learn the ways of the force.
Obi-Wan and Qui Gon do their usual thing and, as usual, manage to save the planet from those who wish to do harm to others.
I suppose this book’s one saving grace is that, for once, the cover is pretty accurate. The Call to Vengeance does a great job of making Qui Gon seem far more emotional and more of the “gray area” Jedi most fans have always thought him to be. We see him question Jedi principles, give into rage, and very nearly lose himself to the dark side in the process. We also get to continue to watch Obi Wan grow and learn the ways of the force.
April 1, 2024
The Call to Vengeance by Jude Watson.
This is #16 in the middle grade Star Wars: Jedi Apprentice series.
No spoiler preview: Qui-Gon's beliefs have been destroyed. And now he is dangerously close to stepping over a line that no Jedi should ever cross. He wants revenge. Obi-Wan and Jedi Council member Mace Windu will try to stop him. Will Qui-Gon be able to separate his personal feeling from his Jedi training?
This book has lots of action and I really liked it, but I will say that there is quite a bit more darkness in this one.
This was a very good finish to the three book story arc of books 14, 15, and 16.
I gave this one 5 stars.
#MiddleGradeMarch2024.
This is #16 in the middle grade Star Wars: Jedi Apprentice series.
No spoiler preview: Qui-Gon's beliefs have been destroyed. And now he is dangerously close to stepping over a line that no Jedi should ever cross. He wants revenge. Obi-Wan and Jedi Council member Mace Windu will try to stop him. Will Qui-Gon be able to separate his personal feeling from his Jedi training?
This book has lots of action and I really liked it, but I will say that there is quite a bit more darkness in this one.
This was a very good finish to the three book story arc of books 14, 15, and 16.
I gave this one 5 stars.
#MiddleGradeMarch2024.
January 16, 2019
Qui-Gon Jinn is a man on the edge. His heart has been shattered. His beliefs have been destroyed. And now he is dangerously close to stepping over a line that no Jedi dares to cross.
He wants revenge.
His fellow Jedi--his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Jedi Council member Mace Windu--will try to stop him. But when Qui-Gon strikes out on his own, anything can happen. Revenge is not a Jedi trait . . . but it is a human one. Can Qui-Gon separate his personal feelings from his Jedi training.
He wants revenge.
His fellow Jedi--his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Jedi Council member Mace Windu--will try to stop him. But when Qui-Gon strikes out on his own, anything can happen. Revenge is not a Jedi trait . . . but it is a human one. Can Qui-Gon separate his personal feelings from his Jedi training.
December 31, 2019
"Mace might think that the anger was not under control. He would not understand that despite his grief, Qui-Gon's control was complete. It is because it has to be. It is the only way I can go on."
It explored an interesting side of Qui-Gon, even if I don't quite agree with the choices made in that specific subplot. So, even despite not being a fan of where they took that specific story, I enjoyed reading this development.
It explored an interesting side of Qui-Gon, even if I don't quite agree with the choices made in that specific subplot. So, even despite not being a fan of where they took that specific story, I enjoyed reading this development.
March 15, 2020
Everything’s so twisty. Hard to know who’s actually trustworthy. And Qui-Gon is not doing well. Good to see Bant again, even though she’s obviously not happy about her master’s death and the fact she wasn’t told Tahl had been kidnapped. But she’s too kind and sweet not to make up with Obi-Wan for not telling her. Especially once Obi-Wan tells her he’s pretty sure Qui-Gon and Tahl loved each other. The Padawans are growing up.
September 3, 2021
Rounding up due to the lack of half stars on this app, but if you’re a fan of the series and made it to this arc capper it is satisfying and poses some interesting thoughts for the reader - especially if a young adult. So a 3.5 bumps up to a 4, especially as it helped showcase exactly what an interesting arc Mace Windu goes through onscreen by emphasizing his controlled nature at this stage shortly before we “meet” him in The Phantom Menace.
August 13, 2025
One of the best in the series. Watson has a chance to show not only Qui-Gon's deep internal struggles with tragedy, but also Obi-Wan's perspective as Qui-Gon shuts him out. The Jedi are not known for being very good at talking about their feelings or knowing how to handle them, at least in the Old Republic era. The mission provides a plot structure and some other challenges, but this conclusion to a multi-book arc is mainly character-focused, which is Watson's strength.
January 5, 2018
Although this was a fast paced adventure story, I was left disappointed. Why? Mace Windu.
The very first time I have read of him anywhere apart from Coruscant, I was excited to read what he would do. Nothing. That is what he added to the story. Did not use his light-saber. Talked to a few people. Might as well have taken a protocol droid... :(
The very first time I have read of him anywhere apart from Coruscant, I was excited to read what he would do. Nothing. That is what he added to the story. Did not use his light-saber. Talked to a few people. Might as well have taken a protocol droid... :(
November 25, 2020
Tahlを失ったクワイガン。Tahlはとても残酷な形で裏切られ、命を奪われ、悲しみと向き合いたくないクワイガンは怒りのまま、Tahlを奪われた報復をはたそうとする。はっきり言って、アナキンよりもダークサイドにまっしぐらだったクワイガン。でも最後の最後でジェダイに踏みとどまれた。Tahlが守ってくれた。でもダークサイドに落ちなくてもTahlを失った悲しみと空虚が消えるわけでもなく、この先ずっとこの思いを抱えてクワイガンは眠れない夜をすごしていかないといけないわけで。ほんとにつらい。オビワンは健気で、クワイガンを心配してずっとそばにいて。オビワンがいなければクワイガンは踏みとどまれなかったかもしれない。tahlの声もきけなかったかもしれない。
...アナキン、修行がたりなかったんだね。。
オビワンはつくづくこの手の人たちに振り回される運命なんだなぁ、、と。
読み応えのある巻でしたー
...アナキン、修行がたりなかったんだね。。
オビワンはつくづくこの手の人たちに振り回される運命なんだなぁ、、と。
読み応えのある巻でしたー
October 16, 2023
In the canon novel Master & Apprentice by Claudia Gray, it's stated that Qui-Gon had touched the dark side at one point. Since that specific instance is not told in canon, this book will be my head canon until/unless it is told in canon at one point. An interesting book & unnerving seeing Qui-Gon flirting with the dark side. Sad, as well. I enjoyed this one.
June 12, 2025
Remind me to never get on the wrong side of a Jedi. Qui-Gon Jinn is on the warpath. Revenge is a dish he plans to serve and there's only Obi-Wan Kenobi there to stop him going off down the dark side.
A great study of grief and loss coupled with the consequences and costs of misplaced anger and blame.
A really strong conclusion to this story arc which hits you in the feels.
A great study of grief and loss coupled with the consequences and costs of misplaced anger and blame.
A really strong conclusion to this story arc which hits you in the feels.
July 27, 2017
This is by far the best of theJedi Apprentice books. There's tons of character reveal and development l. Qui Gon's despair filled slip towards the dark side. Obi Wan's growth and fierce loyalty to Qui Gon. This probably would have been a good ending but there are two more to go.
September 23, 2019
Kontynuacja poprzednich dwóch części i należy się z nimi wcześniej zapoznać. Qui-Gon to moja ulubiona postać ze świata Gwiezdnych Wojen, jednak pierwszy raz widzę go na granicy Ciemnej Strony. To ciekawe móc zobaczyć swojego ulubionego bohatera w zupełnie nowym świetle i tak bardzo ludzkiego...
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