A crash of fate

Izzy and Jules' earliest memories together are of climbing the spires of their home planet, Batuu, but their friendship is cut short when Izzy's family suddenly packs up and leaves the planet overnight. Their lives take two very different paths: Jules becomes a farmer, while Izzy resorts to smuggling after her parents' deaths. When a job brings Izzy back to Batuu, a chance encounter throws the two of them together again; and, after Izzy's task goes terribly wrong, they struggle to complete it while exploring their newfound connection. Córdova takes readers back to an easily recognizable galaxy far, far away, where childhood friends reunite to rediscover an unshakable bond. Fast pacing and compelling characters make for an endlessly engaging tale that tackles conversations on fate, trust, and family. The careful setting in the universe of Star Wars Batuu was conceived to be the imagined location of the recently opened Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge theme park makes the book both thrilling for fans and approachable enough for anyone new to the franchise.--Amna Haque Copyright 2019 Booklist

Long-lost friends find themselves swept up in old feelings and thrust into the midst of a dangerous pirate operation.Abandoned by both her boyfriend and smuggling crew, black-haired, golden-skinned Izal Garsea accepts a new job delivering a mysterious parcel to Batuu, a planet on the Outer Rim and her childhood home. After quitting his job, Julen Rakab (who has golden-brown skin and brown, curly hair) hopes to see more of the galaxy than the Outpost and grain farms, but something has always held him back. Thirteen years have passed since Izzy and Jules dreamed of exploring the stars together, but when fate (or the Force) entangles them in trouble with Izzy's parcel delivery and the ruthless captain of Izzy's former crew, desire for reconnection draws them to help one another. Tension between the First Order and the Resistance looms in the background of their story. The chapters alternate between Izzy's and Jules' perspectives, and themes of home and family play important roles in the internal growth of both protagonists. Feelings of uncertainty and romance that develop between Izzy and Jules add a satisfying layer of will-they, won't-they suspense to the rapidly unfolding conflict. While the story can stand alone, the epilogue hints at more to come.A fast-paced and alluring adventure in a far-flung corner of the galaxy. (Science fiction. 12-18) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.