Star Wars: 30 greatest moments not seen in the movies

7. Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy

There are three books in The Thrawn Trilogy, and each are equally epic. Ultimately, The Thrawn Trilogy takes place a handful of years after Return of the Jedi, as the Imperial forces reel from their recent defeats. Cornered and struggling, they are led by the genius and ruthless Grand Admiral Thrawn, who has plans to flip the balance of power back to when the New Republic was not in control.

Heir to the Empire

As Thrawn attempts to build his forces, he gets help from an insane Jedi clone named Joruus C’baoth. Subsequently, while Luke, Han, and Chewy are battling with Talon Karrde’s smuggling ring, C’baoth is concocting his evil plan: to influence not only Luke Skywalker to the ways of the Dark Side but also Leia’s unborn children. Travel to and protection on Kashyyyk results in Leia learning more about Darth Vader’s Noghri bodyguards.

Dark Force Rising

Luck and an enemy named Mara confront the psychopathic C’boath, who wants to kill them both for interrupting training. He’s like the first Star Wars helicopter parent. Meanwhile, Han Solo and Lando Calrissian hunt for a mole within the New Republic who may be connected to Thrawn. Additionally, Leia turns the entire Noghri from Imperial allegiance to the New Republic. Both sides battle for the 200 Dreadnaught-strong Katana fleet, which ultimately tips the scales in Thrawn’s direction.

The Last Command

The trilogy’s climax combines all parties, tons of intrigue, backstabbing, smugglers, action, and an amazing ending.

This trilogy was influential enough to spawn off comic and role-playing game adaptations. Additionally, multiple characters including Thrawn, Karrde, and Mara Jade Skywalker were introduced.