Asajj Ventress
A Youtini Collection

Star Wars books you should read if you like
Asajj Ventress

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Asajj Ventress
"I am fear. I am the queen of a blood-soaked planet and an architect of genocide. I have helped to crack the galaxy in half with this war and conquered every enemy I have ever faced—including death. All except for you." – Asajj Ventress, in Star Wars: Obsessions, by Hayden Blackman
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     hen Asajj Ventress first made her debut in 2003’s Clone Wars animated series from Gendy Tartakovsky, one thing was clear: she was a dynamic and striking force to be reckoned with! In true George Lucas fashion, her introduction was a bold choice. How could Dooku have a Sith assassin?! Doesn’t that violate the Rule of Two™? But Lucas never let continuity stand in the way of blazing forward with his creativity. And because of that, we have a wonderfully complex character whose story unfolds interestingly and surprisingly over more than fifteen years.

     Ventress, at first, was a seemingly one-dimensional character: vampiric in appearance, she was motivated by her blood lust and desire to please her master. She seemed duty-bound to carry out Dooku’s bidding by commanding Separatist armies, more than capable of taking down her fair share of Jedi in situations where droids just can’t cut it. But when in the hands of brilliant creators in the Expanded Universe and in Dave Filoni's newer incarnation of the Clone Wars, Ventress took on a much more developed story-arc. Since then, we’ve seen her complicated and often flirtatious relationship with Kenobi, her rivalry-turned-mentorship with Ahsoka, her shattered expectations concerning Dooku, her developed backstory with both her former Jedi Master Ky Narec and Mother Talzin and the Nightsisters. She’s even been a bounty hunter teaming up with Boba Fett! Her story is heartbreaking, thrilling, mustache-twistingly villainous, and even heroic points along the way–with Asajj Ventress, there’s a little to love for everyone!

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Books in this Collection

The Youtini Collections team has hand-selected the books in this collection
Legends
Legends
Adult Novel

The Cestus Deception

Written by
Steven Barnes
Artwork by

The Republic’s greatest strength against the Separatists is the Jedi. But when the planet of Ord Cestus begins manufacturing a new form of bio-droid called the JK-13 that rivals the Jedi in martial prowess, the Chancellor becomes deeply concerned. Obi Wan Kenobi and Kit Fisto soon find themselves dispatched to Ord Cestus to stop the sale of the JK-13s to the Separatists before it’s too late. However, if diplomacy should fail, the Chancellor has given strict instructions to destroy the bio-droids at all costs—even if it requires means that are…not the Jedi way.

The Cestus Deception, written by Steven Barnes, presents wonderful foreshadowing into Obi Wan’s eventual disillusionment with the Republic and its actions across the galaxy.

Ord Cestus, a planet mostly barren and inhospitable to life, was first colonized as a prison world, until a handful of hardy pioneers discovered its rich ore deposits and managed to build up a successful droid-manufacturing industry. But when the Clone Wars erupted, bringing severe rationing of imported resources and a Republic ban on the production of battle droids, Ord Cestus was threatened with imminent economic collapse.

Enter the Confederacy of Independent Systems - the Separatists - with a life-saving offer to purchase a generous quantity of the planet's most lucrative export: bio-droids. Possessed of tactical capabilities that rival the fighting abilities of even the most advanced Jedi, these sophisticated, techno-organic hybrid units would prove a most formidable weapon if ever deployed for military use.

Determined to halt the bio-droid sale, but fearing a show of force will result in a political backlash, Supreme Chancellor Palpatine dispatches a team of envoys, led by Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi. But if all else fails, the Republic will not hesitate to launch a full-scale attack and wipe out not only the means of bio-droid production, but countless lives as well, to demonstrate the consequences of disloyalty.

For Obi-Wan, the prospect of such wholesale slaughter only serves to fuel his growing suspicions about the sinister path the Republic seems to be taking. As the leaders of Ord Cestus refuse to capitulate and Palpatine rapidly loses patience, Obi-Wan's hopes of a peaceful resolution are dwindling. Now, facing a crisis of conscience, Obi-Wan must find the wisdom and strength to prevent a bloodbath and safeguard the Republic while abiding by the ancient code to which he has pledged his life.

Legends
Legends
Adult Novel

Yoda: Dark Rendezvous

Written by
Sean Stewart
Artwork by

Yoda, Grand Master of the Jedi Order, carries the weight of the Clone Wars on his shoulders. When his former Padawan and leader of the Separatist movement, Count Dooku, reaches out and asks to meet for a truce, that burden becomes heavier still. Knowing that Dooku is likely laying a trap, Yoda places the needs of the galaxy before his own and ventures forth to the mysterious world of Vjun to face his old apprentice for perhaps the final time.

Author Sean Stewart clearly loves Christopher Lee’s background in monster movies and writes Dooku as a sympathetic villain reminiscent of the golden age of Hammer Films. He both heightens Dooku as a villain and humanizes him as a sympathetic character through his exploration of the novel's central question: is Count Dooku redeemable?

As the Clone Wars rage, Jedi Master Yoda must once again face one of his greatest adversaries: Count Dooku. . . .

The savage Clone Wars have forced the Republic to the edge of collapse. During the height of the battle, one Jedi Knight escapes the carnage to deliver a message to Yoda on Coruscant. It appears that Dooku wants peace and demands a rendezvous. Chances are slim that the treacherous Count is sincere but, with a million lives at stake, Yoda has no choice.

The meeting will take place on Djun, a planet steeped in evil. The challenge could not be more difficult. Can Yoda win back his once promising pupil from the dark side or will Count Dooku unleash his sinister forces against his former mentor? Either way, Yoda is sure of one thing: this battle will be one of the fiercest he’ll ever face.

Canon
Canon
Adult Novel

Dark Disciple

Written by
Christie Golden
Artwork by

Asajj Ventress did not deserve the pain she endured as a child, but she endured it all the same. While most know her as the relentless, hardened Sith apprentice who will stop at nothing to please her master, there’s a much less sinister side to her -- one that may even be capable of falling in love.

There were many stories originally meant to complete The Clone Wars that never got their chance to be told. But Ventress’s journey deserved a proper ending, and it got exactly that. In this story of love, loss, and triumph, watch as the villain you thought you knew transforms into a celebrated hero of the Republic.

The only way to bring down the Sith’s most dangerous warrior may be to join forces with the dark side.

In the war for control of the galaxy between the armies of the dark side and the Republic, former Jedi Master turned ruthless Sith Lord Count Dooku has grown ever more brutal in his tactics. Despite the powers of the Jedi and the military prowess of their clone army, the sheer number of fatalities is taking a terrible toll. And when Dooku orders the massacre of a flotilla of helpless refugees, the Jedi Council feels it has no choice but to take drastic action: targeting the man responsible for so many war atrocities, Count Dooku himself.

But the ever-elusive Dooku is dangerous prey for even the most skilled hunter. So the Council makes the bold decision to bring both sides of the Force’s power to bear—pairing brash Jedi Knight Quinlan Vos with infamous one-time Sith acolyte Asajj Ventress. Though Jedi distrust for the cunning killer who once served at Dooku’s side still runs deep, Ventress’s hatred for her former master runs deeper. She’s more than willing to lend her copious talents as a bounty hunter—and assassin—to Vos’s quest.

Together, Ventress and Vos are the best hope for eliminating Dooku—as long as the emerging feelings between them don’t compromise their mission. But Ventress is determined to have her retribution and at last let go of her dark Sith past. Balancing the complicated emotions she feels for Vos with the fury of her warrior’s spirit, she resolves to claim victory on all fronts—a vow that will be mercilessly tested by her deadly enemy . . . and her own doubt.

Legends
Legends
Omnibus

Legends Epic Collection: The Clone Wars Vol. 2

Written by
Various Authors
Artwork by
Various
Part of the
Epic Collection
This massive Clone Wars-era comics collection has everything: Anakin leading a team of Padawans, Mace Windu at his most fearsome, Asajj Ventress behaving as villainously as ever, Bail Organa's ship attacked by pirates, and even a Tuskan Raider Jedi!

The Clone Wars rage on! And the fighting is fierce as General Kenobi and his first lieutenant, Anakin Skywalker, brace for the Battle of Jabiim! Facing attacks from both the Republic and the locals, can Anakin and his "Padawan Pack" hold the rain-soaked planet — or will they face a washout? Then, Skywalker finds himself behind enemy lines alongside a Tusken Raider-turned-Jedi! But where is Obi-Wan? Perhaps Dark Jedi Asaji Ventress has the answer! Meanwhile, Senator Bail Organa is plagued by pirates, and Quinlan Vos goes undercover within Count Dooku's inner circle. All that, plus Mace Windu unleashed!

COLLECTING: STAR WARS: REPUBLIC 55-67, STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL - DEATH SENTENCE 1-4, MATERIAL FROM STAR WARS TALES 22

Canon
Canon
Single Issue Comic

Age Of Republic Special

Written by
Jody Houser
Artwork by
Various
This is one jam-packed one-shot! Featuring stories about Mace Windu, Asajj Ventress, Jar Jar Binks, and Captain Rex, there’s enough for everyone. Brought to life by a variety of writers and artists, this issue shines in all the right ways.
THE GREATEST HEROES OF THE REPUBLIC, THE DEADLIEST VILLAINS – AND EVERYONE IN BETWEEN! FOUR CREATIVE TEAMS! FOUR STORIES FEATURING YOUR FAVORITE STAR WARS CHARACTERS! The baddest Jedi in the galaxy has a score to settle — MACE WINDU returns in an action-packed adventure from OLD MAN HAWKEYE'S Ethan Sacks! You can run, but can you hide from the twin lightsabers of Sith assassin ASAJJ VENTRESS? Feel her fury in a tale expertly woven by veteran STAR WARS comic scribe Jody Houser (THRAWN, THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN: RENEW YOUR VOWS). And is JAR JAR BINKS' role in the Star Wars story over? NOT BY A LONG SHOT! Because Chip Zdarsky (PETER PARKER: THE SPECTACULAR SPIDER-MAN and MARVEL TWO-IN-ONE) has a rancor bone to pick with the galaxy's most notorious Gungan. You can take the clone out of the war but you can never take the war out of the clone — CAPTAIN REX dusts off his blaster and enters the fray in a story by X-MEN: GOLD author Marc Guggenheim.
Legends
Legends
Omnibus

Legends Epic Collection: The Clone Wars Vol. 3

Written by
Various Authors
Artwork by
Various
Part of the
Epic Collection
The Legends Epic Collection: The Clone Wars Volume 3 Omnibus is an exciting anthology of stories set during the Clone Wars era of the Star Wars universe. This omnibus collects some of the best Legends stories from the galaxy's most epic conflict, featuring thrilling battles, complex political intrigue, and unforgettable character moments. In this epic collection, readers will follow their favorite heroes and villains through a variety of harrowing adventures. From the front lines of the war to the halls of power on Coruscant, they'll witness the events that shaped the fate of the galaxy. Featuring stories from some of the most acclaimed Star Wars authors, including John Ostrander, Jan Duursema, and Scott Allie, this omnibus is a must-read for any Star Wars fan. With stunning artwork from some of the industry's top illustrators and an incredible collection of stories that delve into the complex relationships between characters like Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Ahsoka Tano, the Legends Epic Collection: The Clone Wars Volume 3 Omnibus is a true gem in the Star Wars canon. Whether you're a long-time fan of the franchise or a newcomer looking to explore the rich history of the Clone Wars, this omnibus is an essential addition to any collection.
Star Wars Legends Epic Collection: The Clone Wars Vol. 3 is an Epic Collection trade paperback that collects issues focusing on the Clone Wars. Tales of the legendary Clone Wars! Renegade Jedi Quinlan Vos has crept closer than ever to the dark side of the Force--and now he must not only confront his former student Aayla Secura and his old friend Obi-Wan Kenobi, but place his fate in the hands of the Jedi Council itself! Meanwhile, the new knighted Anakin Skywalker and the evil Sith apprentice Ventress have become obsessed with defeating one another. Could this be their final battle at last? Plus: Discover the origin of the murderous villain General Grievous! The race to Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith begins here!
Canon
Canon
Audio Drama

Dooku: Jedi Lost

Written by
Cavan Scott
Artwork by

Few know much about Count Dooku or his past that led him from the highest ranks of the Jedi Order to the knee of Darth Sidious. But when he charges his new assassin, Asajj Ventress, with her first mission, he also opens a window into his past. That past, riddled with dark prophecies and broken relationships is the key to Ventress understanding her new master…and his weaknesses.

Cavan Scott, bolstered by a whole host of voice actors, delivers one of the most engaging, immersive stories in all of the Expanded Universe with Dooku: Jedi Lost. This origin story enriches Dooku’s character so much that it even manages to elevate his on-screen appearances in the films.

Delve into the history of the sinister Count Dooku in this audio original set in a galaxy far far away....

Darth Tyranus. Count of Serenno. Leader of the Separatists. A red saber, unsheathed in the dark. But who was he, before he became the right hand of the Sith? As Dooku courts a new apprentice, the hidden truth of the Sith Lord's past begins to come to light.

Dooku's life began as one privilege-born within the stony walls of his family's estate, orbited by the Funeral Moon where the bones of his ancestors lie interred. But soon his Jedi abilities are recognized and he is taken from home to be trained in the ways of the Force by the legendary Master Yoda. As he hones his power, Dooku rises through the ranks, befriending fellow Jedi Sifo-Dyas and taking a Padawan of his own, the promising Qui-Gon Jinn—and tries to forget the life that he once led. But he finds himself drawn by a strange fascination with the Jedi Master Lene Kostana, and the mission she undertakes for the Order: finding and studying ancient relics of the Sith, in preparation for the eventual return of the deadliest enemies the Jedi have ever faced.

Caught between the world of the Jedi, the ancient responsibilities of his lost home, and the alluring power of the relics, Dooku struggles to stay in the light-even as the darkness begins to fall.

Canon
Canon
YA Novel

The Clone Wars Anthology: Stories of Light and Dark

Written by
Various Authors
Artwork by
Clone Wars: Stories of Light and Dark is a fresh take on the animated series that has become a often-binged staple of Star Wars fans young and old. A talented stable of authors has adapted iconic episodes and story-arcs for inclusion in this anthology. Some are from a different character’s perspective from what we see in the tv show: the Senate hostage crisis is told from Anakin’s point of view rather than Padmé’s, for example. Other stories are told in a first-person-POV so as to lend a heavily-stylized slant to the familiar story. This is at the same time interesting, entertaining, and surprising—especially when we get inside the mind of a character such as Count Dooku! Plus, it includes one original story written exclusively for inclusion in this collection. Great for Clone Wars fans or for young readers looking to get started with Star Wars books.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars Anthology is a canon short story collection. Written by Lou Anders, Tom Angleberger, Preeti Chhibber, Zoraida Córdova, Jason Fry, Yoon Ha Lee, Rebecca Roanhorse, Anne Ursu and Greg Van Eekhout.each story adapts episodes or story arcs from Star Wars: The Clone Wars TV series from the point of view of one main character.
Canon
Canon
Adult Novel

Brotherhood

Written by
Mike Chen
Artwork by
Brotherhood is a Star Wars novel set between the events of Star Wars: Attack of the Clones and Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith. It follows the story of Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker as they navigate the challenges of being Jedi Knights during the Clone Wars. The novel begins with Obi-Wan and Anakin on a mission to Cato Neimoidia, a planet that has been caught in the middle of the Clone Wars. The two Jedi must work together to protect the planet from the Separatist forces. Along the way, they must also deal with the growing tension between them. As the Clone Wars continue, Obi-Wan and Anakin are forced to make difficult choices. They must decide who to trust, who to fight, and what it means to be a Jedi. In the end, they must come to terms with the fact that they are not always on the same side. Brotherhood is a powerful story about friendship, loyalty, and the choices we make. It is a must-read for any fan of Star Wars.

Brotherhood is an adult novel by Mike Chen and focuses on Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker during the Clone Wars.

Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker must stem the tide of the raging Clone Wars and forge a new bond as Jedi Knights.

The Clone Wars have begun. Battle lines are being drawn throughout the galaxy. With every world that joins the Separatists, the peace guarded by the Jedi Order is slipping through their fingers.

After an explosion devastates Cato Neimoidia, the jewel of the Trade Federation, the Republic is blamed and the fragile neutrality of the planet is threatened. The Jedi dispatch Obi-Wan Kenobi, one of the Order's most gifted diplomatic minds, to investigate the crime and maintain the balance that has begun to dangerously shift. As Obi-Wan investigates with the help of a heroic Neimoidian guard, he finds himself working against the Separatists who hope to draw the planet into their conspiracy—and senses the sinister hand of Asajj Ventress in the mists that cloak the planet.

Amid the brewing chaos, Anakin Skywalker rises to the rank of Jedi Knight. Despite the mandate that Obi-Wan travel alone–and his former master's insistence that he listen this time—Anakin’s headstrong determination means nothing can stop him from crashing the party, and bringing along a promising but conflicted youngling.

Once a Padawan to Obi-Wan, Anakin now finds himself on equal—but uncertain—footing with the man who raised him. The lingering friction between them increases the danger for everyone around them. The two knights must learn a new way to work together—and they must learn quickly, to save Cato Neimoidia and its people from the fires of war. To overcome the threat they face they must grow beyond master and apprentice. They must stand together as brothers.

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