Before the Storm is the first novel in the Black Fleet Crisis trilogy. The trilogy is unique in its focus on military campaigns, as it describes in detail the political and military threats to the New Republic. Before the Storm establishes the brewing conflict with xenophobic threat from the far reaches of the galaxy, as Leia attempts to allay the threat. Meanwhile, Luke Skywalker sets out on a mission to discover the truth about his mother and her origins, leading him to her home planet.

Before the Storm is a great read for fans of more military-focused novels. It is an excellent look into the politics and workings of the New Republic. Of course, it is also an important book for fans of Luke, as it details an important quest to learn more about his origins.