This article was originally published on TatooineTimes.com
After the enormous success of the first novels and comic, The High Republic returns in February with a new adventure by the all-time favorite Star Wars author, Claudia Gray. Into the Dark tells the story of Padawan Reath Silas—whose original plans to join his master Jora Malli to her new assignment at Starlight Beacon turns into a frightening mission aboard an abandoned space station.
Author Claudia Gray does it again. The High Republic: Into the Dark is an incredible journey full of mystery, surprises, terror, but also fun. Set during the events of Light of the Jedi, the main plot has a certain similarity to the one of A Test of Courage, both featuring a journey to Starlight Beacon gone bad, with the difference that Into the Dark is (as the name suggests) a much darker and mysterious tale. Gray’s horror and sci-fi inspiration outside the galaxy far, far away is evident—creating a fresh new adventure that is still as Star Wars as readers would expect.
The novel introduces the readers to new and compelling characters—from the Jedi Reath, Dez, Cohmac, and Orla to the Vessel crew composed of Affie, Leox, and Geode. Although Reath is the main character throughout the story, the others get plenty of spotlight and development.
Reath Silas is probably one of the most relatable characters in The High Republic. Oftentimes Jedi are portrayed as these informidable warriors whose problem solving mostly involves lightsaber fights and mind control. However, Reath is the opposite of this stereotype. He is a scholar first and foremost—he would rather stroll around the Jedi Archives than hopping on a thrilling adventure. Throughout the events of Into the Dark, Reath is forced to step outside his comfort zone, but even so he stays true to himself. His fallibility and humanity allow the readers to step into his shoes and truly immerse into the story.
Besides the main plot, Into the Dark incorporates a flashback storyline enriching the character development of Cohmac and Orla. Although this part of the novel does not greatly impact the main storyline, it is important for further understanding of the characters and how their decisions made in the past could affect the present events.
Into the Dark could not be an authentic Star Wars story without an iconic crew. Affie Hollow, Leox Gyasi, and Geode make one of the most diverse and fascinating crews in The High Republic and possibly in all Star Wars storytelling. Among the crew mates, Affie is the main character—representing the Young Adult audience. She is the daughter of the owner of the Byne Guild, learning the business while trying to figure out her place within it. Leox (inspired by a 90’s Matthew McConaughey) could be identified as the Han Solo archetype, but Gray goes beyond just that by creating a fascinating character—a free spirit with a unique view of the galaxy and a passion for spice sticks. Geode, well … Geode is an enigmatic character the readers may or may not understand even after finishing Into the Dark.
The novel takes its name from the events within the mysterious space station, where the Vessel crew, along with the Jedi, are faced against a new, ancient threat. These monsters are the perfect addition to the horror genre within Star Wars—fueling fear amongst the Jedi. The Nihil make yet another appearance to The High Republic, further sedimenting their status as official enemies of the Republic and the Jedi Order. However, compared to their portrayal in Light of the Jedi and A Test of Courage, Gray brings more complexity to the murderous space pirates through a different perspective.
Are you ready to step into the dark? Then make sure to get your own copy of The High Republic: Into the Dark, also available in audio format, read by actor and voice artist Dan Bittner.
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