The writers have a lot of independence in coming up with a story, provided they work in the plot points necessary to keep the overall story arc moving along. But in the end, we make whatever changes the Lucasfolk require. Over the last year, Luke Skywalker and the Jedi Knights have suffered a string of setbacks at the hands of alien invaders known as the Yuuzhan Vong. As I'm sure you know, there are rumors among fans concerning the death of another major character. My only comment can be that this is a war.
People die in wars.
That's the way it is. I don't think I can pick one thing. I'm pleased by the fact that most of the authors seem to have truly enjoyed the experience of working on the series. I'm pleased that, for the most part, fan response has been so positive. As I understand it, the whole arc of the NJO was planned out from the start.