Lost Stars

"Lost Stars" is a novel in the "Star Wars" franchise, written by Claudia Gray. The book was published by Disney+-Lucasfilm Press on September 4, 2015 as a part of the Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens publishing initiative. It is not a typical Star Wars story in that the plot extends across the entire original film trilogy timeline and through significant political and terrestrial events of the Galactic Empire. However, it is told from a very unique perspective of two childhood friends, Thane Kyrell and Ciena Ree, who find themselves on opposite sides of the war.

Thane and Ciena are both from the Outer Rim world of Jelucan. Their backgrounds differ, with Thane being from an aristocratic family and Ciena from a Community of peasant farmers. Despite their social differences, they become close friends and they share a similar ambition – to become pilots. This dream leads them to the Royal Imperial Academy, where their skills earn them high-ranking positions within the Empire. However, their paths diverge dramatically after the infamous destruction of Alderaan by the Death Star.

Ciena pledges her undying loyalty to the Empire, rationalizing its extreme actions as a necessary evil to maintain order. On the flip side, Thane becomes disillusioned and enraged at the sight of such ruthlessness. He deserts the Empire and ultimately joins the Rebel Alliance. Their contradictory allegiances put a strain on their relationship, sparking a conflict that is as much personal as it is political. They must balance their loyalty to their factions, to one another, and to their shared past, all while dealing with the larger backdrop of the Galactic Civil War.

"Lost Stars" is a work that excels in the nuance it brings to the traditional "Star Wars" narrative, focusing on the gray areas within the traditionally black and white morality tale. The story explores how the characters wrestle with the moral complexities and political intricacies of the galaxy. It further offers insight into key events from the original movies, like the Battle of Hoth and the Battle of Endor.

Not only does "Lost Stars" serve as a fascinating standalone tale, but it also provides additional depth to the established "Star Wars" universe. The characters and their personal struggles are a central focus, making this novel a fitting revelation of the human element within the backdrop of the space opera of "Star Wars".