Thoughts on Shadows of the Empire

I'm halfway through and liking it, but find that it’s not gripping me like the Zahn novels. Those books were more cerebral, inner world of the characters dealing with their new roles. This feels a lot shallower, even though they had a lot to work with.

One big issues I have is Luke's characterization. He seems a bit too jokey, excited to fight, just too light. He feels like Luke from ANH. Coming out of his lose to Vadar he should be more sullen, have more depth and gravitas. Especially since when by time we see him in ROTJ, he's more of a stoic bad ass.

Just seems off to me. What does everyone else think?

No spoilers for end of book please!