Star Wars books hold something of a niche market, because those that are into them tend to be REALLY into them, and are big collectors of the 'expanded universe' novels.
When they are good, they really are good as books such as Steve Perry's 'Shadows of the Empire' and James Luceno's 'Labyrinth of Evil' are becoming cult classics amongst Star Wars fans.
Sadly, this effort from Michael Reeves falls far short of such high standards. Set 6 months before the Phantom Menace, the story is centered around the unlikely duo of Jedi Padawan Darsha Assant and down-on-his-luck spacer Lorn Pavan. A rogue Nemoidian is trying to sell a holocron containing a full expose of Darth Sidious' identity and plans. Assant and Pavan come to aquire this holocron, and Darth Maul is sent after them by Sidious to destroy the holocron at all costs. Communications being somewhat good in the Star Wars universe, it seems Reeves has had to put a real effort into finding a way to keep the pair somewhat isolated. Consequently, almost the entire book is a chase set in the basements of Coruscant's metropolis which tends to create a somewhat dull atmosphere. The real problem however is that Darth Maul is constantly outwitted by Assant and Pavan. Darth Maul, the epitome of Sith darkness is time and again outwitted and left cursing in rage as the pair slip through his fingers time and time again. Without giving away too many details, he ultimately has nothing to do with the eventual dooming of Pavan's treasure, as little more than bad luck eventually causes the holocron to be destroyed. Sadly this is a somewhat lacklusture story in which a supposedly unstoppable villain is made to look rather foolish as failure strikes him again and again.
better luck next time Mr Reeves, if indeed there is a next time.