Yes, another very interesting aspect of the ever-evolving SW narrative back in the day - thanks for a fascinating read.
For me the biggest disappointment was making Leia the ‘sister/other hope’ - apart from making no sense generally, I felt it robbed her of her agency somewhat.
I do recall she got a shot at Vader in Splinter of the Mind’s Eye but I don’t remember if it was handled well.
I’m surprised SOTME hasn’t yet been been made into an animated form (a la Heir To The Empire) - or even being made into a ‘fan film’ - given the main focus on the three characters on a single setting.
One day, maybe…