The framing device of this story really ruined the reading experience of this book. I know what I signed up for: I wanted the backstory of Captain Phasma. But this story tells the backstory three characters removed from Phasma, in a weak plot about a Storm Trooper Captain named Cardinal seeking evidence to discredit Phasma in the eyes of the First Order.

The story *did not need this*. I don't care about Cardinal or Vi, that's not why I picked up this book. I don't need a reason why we're getting this story. And without any interior insight on Phasma, I genuinely don't feel like I know her any better than I did when I picked up the book. Sure, we know where she grew up and some of her actions, but what were her thoughts, feelings, justifications for what she did? We don't get that here. 

Every break from the backstory to focus on Cardinal and Vi is *so boring* and anticlimactic. We know what's going to happen. He tortures her, they banter, she keeps telling the story. Every time Vi says "This will be your evidence" and then each time it's so...not interesting. Like, duh Phasma is cruel and merciless and powerful. I already knew that about her. I found myself asking, "Okay, what else?". I was constantly seeking a greater emotional depth that never delivered. 

Most interesting parts of the story: History of Phasma, the mystery of Phasma's home planet, the lengths the people went to survive

Least interesting parts of the story:
Cardinal's emotional turmoil (I don't care about this man, he's not the reason I picked up this story), Vi's suffering (ditto)

The story is fine. It just could be a whole lot better.