Genre: Science Fiction | Author: Delilah S. Dawson | Release Date: 2017
Plot
Phasma delivers a gritty, survivalist take on the Star Wars universe, setting itself apart from the typical galaxy-spanning conflicts. Told through the lens of Resistance spy Vi Moradi—captured by the First Order and interrogated by Captain Cardinal—the novel unfolds as a secondhand account of how Phasma rose from a tribal warlord on the poisoned wastelands of Parnassos to a high-ranking, chrome-armored stormtrooper commander.
The plot is brutal and grounded, focusing more on individual grit than intergalactic war. Phasma leads a dangerous trek across a post-apocalyptic hellscape, showcasing her tactical cunning and unrelenting survival instinct. However, while the story highlights her physical and strategic capabilities, it avoids diving into her inner world. The narrative constructs her myth but doesn't dissect the person behind the armor. This makes her an intriguing enigma, but also limits emotional investment—especially when compared to more layered Star Wars villains.
The story shines in its tone and genre fusion. The survival horror feel brings tension, unpredictability, and a rare sense of danger. It’s a fresh flavor for Star Wars, where death is sudden and mercy is scarce. The worldbuilding is rich, especially Parnassos’ toxic environment and tribal politics. However, the novel could’ve benefited from more time focused on Phasma’s rise within the First Order. A military arc—think G.I. Jane in space—would’ve made her journey more complete and personal. Instead, most of her transformation occurs off-page, filtered through secondhand testimony.
Despite this missed opportunity, the narrative is strong and offers a compelling story, even if Phasma herself remains distant.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Production
Delilah S. Dawson’s writing is crisp, fast-paced, and efficiently brutal. She doesn’t linger where she doesn’t need to and knows exactly how to paint a harsh, deadly world in just a few brushstrokes. The survivalist tone never lets up, and she expertly balances the sci-fi setting with visceral, grounded conflicts. Dialogue feels natural, and character interactions are laced with paranoia, desperation, and power struggles—particularly in the framing chapters between Vi and Cardinal.
The book’s structure, however, has its pros and cons. The dual narrative—Vi’s interrogation and Phasma’s origin—works well for building intrigue, but it also puts emotional distance between the reader and Phasma herself. We never get to see inside her mind. While that fits her mystique, it also makes her feel like a force of nature rather than a fully fleshed-out character. She’s always doing, rarely reflecting. It’s hard to say if she’s heartless, pragmatic, or secretly tortured—we’re simply left guessing.
The audio production is excellent, with strong voice performances that elevate the material. January LaVoy does an admirable job with the narration, handling different characters and moods with finesse. Her delivery as Vi is especially strong—sharp, vulnerable, and determined all at once. Sound effects and musical cues lifted from the Star Wars films add another layer of immersion and authenticity, enhancing key action scenes and emotional beats.
Overall, the production is top-tier. It makes for a gripping listen, even when the story keeps its central figure emotionally opaque.
Rating: 4 out of 5
The Verdict
In the end, Phasma offers a dark, survival-driven slice of the Star Wars universe with excellent worldbuilding, sharp writing, and strong narration. While its title character remains an enigma with limited development, the book excels in atmosphere and tone. Phasma gets 4 out of 5.
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