"Taken," the novel that was based on the original Sci-Fi Channel epic mini-series of the same title, was written by Thomas Cook. "Taken," created by Leslie Bohem, is the story of fifty years in the lives of three families, three different generations. The novel tells an epic story that is set against the 'backdrop of historical events' starts out with the abduction of downed WWII fighter Russell Keys (who in the Sci-Fi Channel mini-series was portrayed by "General Hospital" heartthrob Steve Burton) and his squadron. Russell is critically injured by enemy fire and his plane begins to spin out of control downward into enemy territory.
If you've seen The Phantom Menace in a theater--and, judging from the 1999 box-office figures, who hasn't?--you've probably been a bit frustrated by the speed with which the fantastic images and creatures fly past. There's no such problem with this book. All the excitement of the Star Wars prequel is there, but this time there's breathing room, a chance to meet the characters, let them walk around in your imagination, hear their thoughts.
Salvatore has done a good job of fleshing out the story of the Star Wars II movie. The book introduces Anakin's mother; her husband; and her stepson, Owen, who will raise the future Luke Skywalker, and describes her capture and the failed attempt to rescue her. If that doesn't appeal, there is always the chapter describing Amidala's family on Naboo, whom viewers never even meet in the film. Perhaps more enticing, the book treats readers to the actual scene of Anakin's vengeful destruction of the Tusken Raider encampment, an action so pivotal to his future course in the Dark Side.
Based on the screenplay of the eagerly anticipated final film in George Lucas’s epic saga, bestselling Star Wars author Matthew Stover’s novel crackles with action, captures the iconic characters in all their complexity, and brings a space opera masterpiece full circle in stunning style.
Elmore Leonard - Unknown Man #89 Detroit process server Jack Ryan has a reputation for being the best in the business at finding people who don't want to be found. Now he's looking for a missing stockholder known only as "Unknown Man No. 89." But his missing man isn't "unknown" to everyone: a pretty blonde hates his guts and a very nasty dude named Royal wants him dead in the worst way. Which is very unfortunate for Jack Ryan, who is suddenly caught in the crossfire of a lethal triple-cross and as much a target as his nameless prey.
