This article was originally published on TatooineTimes.com
Republic Commando: True Colors, written by Karen Traviss and released in 2007, extends the captivating saga of the series based on the video game of the same name. Set against the backdrop of the Clone Wars, the novel delves deeper into the dynamics of clone troopers, focusing on their loyalty, camaraderie, and the ethical dilemmas they confront in a galaxy ravaged by war.
The storyline follows Omega Squad, a band of elite clone commandos, as they embark on perilous missions assigned by the Republic. Under the leadership of the steadfast Sergeant Kal Skirata, the squad grapples with their identities as clones while navigating the complexities of the conflict. Darman and his Jedi love Etain’s romance is present once more, though the two are separated by duty and both face dangerous wartime challenges. The lines continually are blurred between friends and enemies as the war between Republic and Separatists rages on, but will everyone make it out alive?
This being my third Republic Commando novel I can solidly confirm that I am not the target audience for these books. I have not played the video game nor am I a war fiction fan, two things that do not work in my favor as a consumer. Traviss’ skills as a war novelist are evident but I simply cannot enjoy it as it’s intended. Objectively, there are also so many characters to keep up with that for similar readers unfamiliar with the video game, things might get confusing quickly.
Despite this criticism, True Colors remains essential reading for fans of The Clone Wars, the Republic Commando series, and enthusiasts of military science fiction. Traviss’ meticulous attention to detail immerses readers in the gritty realities of war. True Colors’ exploration of clone identity and the bonds forged amidst chaos resonates with the overarching themes of the series, offering a poignant examination of humanity in the face of adversity.
One element I did enjoy is the inclusion of the romantic subplot between clone trooper Darman and Jedi Etain, a thread continued from the previous novel. Though separated through circumstance and duty, their bond is fascinating (as is Etain’s interesting choice to keep the identity of her child’s father a secret from Darman) as is highlighting how uniquely challenging it was for Jedi during this timeline to struggle with issues of attachment. I’m interested to see where this narrative thread goes and hope their relationship remains a critical piece of the Republic Commando series.
For aficionados of the Republic Commando series and devotees of war literature, True Colors delivers a compelling narrative brimming with action, intrigue, and profound character development. The Essential Legends Collection edition features brand new cover art by Deena So’Oteh which pairs beautifully with the previous two entries in the Republic Commando series.
Purchase Republic Command: True Colors The Essential Legends Collection
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