Star Wars Volume 1: In the Shadow of Yavin by Brian Wood - Book Review

From the publisher: After the destruction of the Death Star, the Rebels are hounded by the Empire. Suspecting a spy in their ranks, Princess Leia forms a secret X-wing squadron—which includes Luke Skywalker—to expose the spy and find a safe home. Meanwhile, Han Solo and Chewbacca are sent on a covert mission! Collects Star Wars #1–#6 and Free Comic Book Day 2013.

I've read quite a few Star Wars comics recently and haven't really been impressed.  At best, they've been okay.  At worst, they were a waste of time.  However, In the Shadow of Yavin, by Brian Wood, is the Star Wars comic I've been waiting for. 

Following immediately after Star Wars Episode 4: A New Hope, In the Shadow of Yavin finds the Rebel Alliance looking for a new safe home base.  However, as Luke, Leia, and Wedge begin to explore a remote planet, the Empire shows up in force.  They barely escape, touching off the new storyline.  

There is a spy in the Rebellion, and Leia is tasked with finding out who it is.  She forms an elite squad, including Luke, Wedge, and several other new characters, one of whom (Prithi) is a love interest for Luke.

Meanwhile, Han and Chewbacca are on a mission to buy weapons on Corascant, the capital planet of the Empire.  Needless to say, things don't go as planned, leaving Han and Chewie in the Underground of Corascant.

Darth Vader also plays a role, as he is being disciplined for the failure of the Death Star.  The Emperor has replaced him aboard his ship with an up-and-coming Imperial Officer and Elite Tie-Fighter Pilot named Colonel Bircher.  Vader is furious, but is beginning to be preoccupied by the young Rebel pilot named Skywalker.

Brian Wood has done a fantastic job of capturing the characters, both their voices and their personalities.  He also seems to be staying true to the spirit of the movies as he moves the plot along toward the inevitable events of The Empire Strikes Back.

The art by Carlos D'Anda is well done.  The characters look a lot like the actors and actresses from the movies.

I highly recommend this comic to all Star Wars fans.  I look forward to seeing how the story continues.

I received a review copy of this book from Dark Horse Comics in exchange for an honest review.