Few first time Star Wars novelists get the promotional push that Joe Schreiber received in 2009 for Deathtroopers.  The first unabashed horror story set in the Star Wars universe the combination of zombies and the galaxy far, far away inspired cosplay even before the book hit shelves.  While somewhat controversial for its more R rated gore and violence, the book became a fan favorite and just one year later the sequel Red Harvest was released.

Now after a four year absence from Star Wars fiction Schreiber is back in bookstores with the new novel Darth Maul:  Lockdown.  This prequel era tale follows the Sith apprentice on a mission for his master before the events of The Phantom Menace.  Lockdown is a departure from the author’s previous horror stories but the hard action and flare for visuals remain–as does the promotion.  From the graphics flaunting Darth Maul fighting a Yuuzhan Vong to the news that this new story ties in closely with James Luceno’s 2012 book Darth Plagueis fan expectations couldn’t be higher.

In this bonus episode of Star Wars Action News Arnie talks with the author about what he’s been working on since 2010, what stories influenced this prison story, and what continuity landmines he had to avoid when setting a story in this era.  Listen to get all the behind-the-scenes details of this new book.

With Johnathan back hitting the bricks for a special LEGO focused “On the Pegs” segment, this is one podcast you won’t want to miss!