At the end of the day, you knew nothing was really going to happen. At most you would have a few non-movie deaths, but who cares.
I definitely agree with these recommendations. The novelizations of all 3 prequels are much, much better than the films. Also, Rise of DV was very good. It helped to cement what Lucas always said about Vader.....is was a hurt/broken shell of his former self, not an all-powerful super Jedi.
Haven't read this in years.....perhaps it is time for a re-read!