Star Wars: Master & Apprentice

 

This book focuses on the relationship between master Qui-Gon Jinn and Padawan Obi-Wan Kenobi. To some extent, Qui-Gon is at odds with the Jedi Council, despite being asked to join. He is interested in the Jedi prophecies, which according to Yoda, attempting to predict the future can lead to the dark side. Dooku was also interested in the prophecies, if that says anything. Obi-Wan, on the other hand, is a rules follower, doing things by the books. The different perspectives on the Jedi philosophy at times put Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan at odds. Their relationship is tested and strengthened during their adventure on the planet Pijal featured in this book.

Both Qui-Gon and Jedi Rael Averross were previously Count Dooku's Padawan's. Rael was also a Jedi who was unconventional and somewhat at odds with the Council. Unfortunately, Rael had a Padawan die under his training, which continued to haunt him. After his Padawan died, he was assigned to the planet Pijal to be the advisor and assistant to a young girl destined to become princess of the planet. When a crisis erupted on Pijal, the Jedi Council sent Qui-Gon to assist Rael due to their strong relationship that developed due to being previous Padawans under Count Dooku. 

Pijal is a monarchy that is in the process of transitioning to a democracy. They are building a hyperspace lane to better connect the planet to the rest of the galaxy, with the help of the always present Czerka Corporation that uses slave labor. This frustrates many people, including Qui-Gon.   The planet is experiencing terrorist attacks, protests from a traveling theater group called the Opposition, and attacks from a mysterious army called the Blackguard. All of this ruckus is due to the Czerka Corporation's presence and use of slave labor, and threatens the upcoming opening of the hyperspace land as well as the planet's transition to a democracy.

As the book progresses, it turns into a classic "whodunit" in terms of who is responsible for the attacks. This is the best Star Wars book I've read thus far. It keeps you guessing as to who the actual antagonist really is, as multiple people could be responsible. Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, and Rael's relationships are tested throughout the book as they have different philosophies on how to approach the circumstances on Pijal. I won't spoil the ending, but suffice it to say the person responsible for the extracurricular activities on the planet is a surprise.

As the book ends, Obi-Wan is at Qui-Gon's funeral after being slashed by Maul, a scene depicted in the prequels. By his side is a young Anakin Skywalker. Obi-Wan promised Qui-Gon he would look after Anakin as Qui-Gon was convinced he was the chosen one discussed in the prophecies.