He keeps the reader interested and you really begin to feel for the characters. I didn't loose interest once throughout the entire novel. This is Anakin's novel, and in the end, he has begun to emerge as one of my favorite EU characters. In fact, I love all three Solo kids, each for different reasons. The novel was solid, although it did leave me with questions, and dying to want to read Rebirth.
Some interesting events take place.
Basically, they want to assimilate Jedi and make them Vong. They capture Anakin's best friend, Tahiri, of the Young Jedi fame. I haven't read any of the Young Jedi books, so at times I felt a little left out, but not so much so that I couldn't enjoy the book. Anakin goes to set her free, and along the way becomes allies with a Vong that has been shamed and who seeks retribution. You learn a lot about the Vong religion in this book.