The Magic of the “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” Audiobook This audiobook beautifully enhances the drama and action of the film

Having seen Rogue One: A Star Wars Story in theaters and been completely enchanted by what I thought was a return to the original Star Wars heart, I couldn’t wait to hear more story and character details, all of the things that couldn’t possibly fit into a movie.

That “more” is well worth the listen.

Jonathan Davis’ narration is mesmerizing, and captures the emotions of the different characters quite well, and I couldn’t help but imagine some of the movie’s scenes as I listened to them again, with additional character insights to enhance what was going on.

The additional scenes expanding the relationships between Galen Erso and Orson Krennick, and between Senator Mon Mothma and General Draven, add a few interesting layers to a world and a story that could have easily relied on shortcuts, using fans’ familiarity with the plot to let us assume a few such things.

There were a few times when the background effects on various ships seemed to overwhelm the dialogue or action from the narration, but that is a minor quibble when the entirety is such a joy to listen to.

Given how much I enjoyed the movie, I’m glad the audiobook is unabridged, so I can enjoy the entire experience again. This should easily tide me over until the Blu-ray comes out!

Rating: 4 stars

As the shadows of the Empire loom ever larger across the galaxy, so do deeply troubling rumors. The Rebellion has learned of a sinister Imperial plot to bring entire worlds to their knees. Deep in Empire-dominated space, a machine of unimaginable destructive power is nearing completion. A weapon too terrifying to contemplate . . . and a threat that may be too great to overcome.

If the worlds at the Empire’s mercy stand any chance, it lies with an unlikely band of allies: Jyn Erso, a resourceful young woman seeking vengeance; Cassian Andor, a war-weary rebel commander; Bodhi Rook, a defector from the Empire’s military; Chirrut Îmwe, a blind holy man and his crack-shot companion, Baze Malbus; and K-2SO, a deadly Imperial droid turned against its former masters. In their hands rests the new hope that could turn the tide toward a crucial Rebellion victory—if only they can capture the plans to the Empire’s new weapon.

But even as they race toward their dangerous goal, the specter of their ultimate enemy—a monstrous world unto itself—darkens the skies. Waiting to herald the Empire’s brutal reign with a burst of annihilation worthy of its dreaded name: Death Star.

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story by Alexander Freed (read by Jonathan Davis)
Listening Length: 12 hours and 11 minutes
Program Type: Audiobook
Version: Unabridged
Publisher: Random House Audio
Audible.com Release Date: December 16, 2016
Whispersync for Voice: Ready
Language: English
ASIN: B01L0GDUKO