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Star Wars: The High Republic
Temptation of the Force
The reunited Jedi prepare to strike back against the ruthless Nihil in this thrilling sequel to Star Wars: The High Republic: The Eye of Darkness.
For over a year, Jedi Masters Avar Kriss and Elzar Mann were kept apart by the Nihil’s Stormwall. After Avar makes a daring escape from inside the Occlusion Zone, the star-crossed Jedi are reunited. But while the physical distance between them has evaporated, their shared grief over their failure to protect the galaxy from the Nihil threat still remains. To rally the Jedi Order, and the Republic, Avar and Elzar cling to their belief in serving Light and Life. Working together they lead a daring mission into Nihil space to liberate the planet of Naboo, and show those trapped behind the Stormwall that the Jedi will never abandon them. Now back within close orbit of one another, the two Jedi Masters can no longer deny the bond that has always drawn them back together and made them stronger. After finally embracing their true desires and imbued with renewed purpose, Avar and Elzar devise a plan to turn the tide of the conflict with the Nihil once and for all. Accompanied by Jedi Knights Bell Zettifar, Burryaga, and Vernestra Rwoh, the Jedi begin their hunt for Marchion Ro. But to seek out the Nihil’s dangerous leader the Jedi will have to survive the Nameless terrors that they have thus far been powerless to stop.
For over a year, Jedi Masters Avar Kriss and Elzar Mann were kept apart by the Nihil’s Stormwall. After Avar makes a daring escape from inside the Occlusion Zone, the star-crossed Jedi are reunited. But while the physical distance between them has evaporated, their shared grief over their failure to protect the galaxy from the Nihil threat still remains. To rally the Jedi Order, and the Republic, Avar and Elzar cling to their belief in serving Light and Life. Working together they lead a daring mission into Nihil space to liberate the planet of Naboo, and show those trapped behind the Stormwall that the Jedi will never abandon them. Now back within close orbit of one another, the two Jedi Masters can no longer deny the bond that has always drawn them back together and made them stronger. After finally embracing their true desires and imbued with renewed purpose, Avar and Elzar devise a plan to turn the tide of the conflict with the Nihil once and for all. Accompanied by Jedi Knights Bell Zettifar, Burryaga, and Vernestra Rwoh, the Jedi begin their hunt for Marchion Ro. But to seek out the Nihil’s dangerous leader the Jedi will have to survive the Nameless terrors that they have thus far been powerless to stop.
448 pages, Hardcover
First published June 11, 2024
About the author
Tessa Gratton
70 books1,896 followersTessa Gratton is the author of adult and YA SFF novels and short stories that have been translated into twenty-two languages, nominated twice for the Otherwise Award, and several have been Junior Library Guild Selections. Her most recent novels are the dark queer fairy tales Strange Grace and Night Shine, and queer the Shakespeare retelling Lady Hotspur. Her upcoming work includes the YA fantasy Chaos and Flame (2023), and novels of Star Wars: The High Republic. Though she has lived all over the world, she currently resides at the edge of the Kansas prairie with her wife. Queer, nonbinary, she/any.
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Shelved as 'waiting-on-release'
February 15, 2024MY FAVORITE GIRLBOSS AND MALEWIFE TOGETHER. ON THE COVER. AND ON VALENTINE’S DAY TOO. THEY DID THIS FOR A REASON. JESUS CHRIST
June 13, 2024
This is the Penultimate adult novel in the High Republic series. As such, it sets up quite a lot for the finale in “Trials of the Jedi” and also has quite a lot of character development.
The two characters who get the most development are Avar Kris’s and Elzar Mann. From the marketing and the blurbs released, the book appears in some ways to be a romance. While a potential romance is a featured theme between them in the book, it isn’t the entire focus of the book. It raises some questions about the future with the two characters, but I am fairly certain i know how it will pan out and it should have satisfactory answers. I will say that personally it is refreshing to finally see a more traditional relationship in the books though.
Gratton has obviously learned from Charles Soule’s writing on how to write the force itself and she did an excellent job in this book, particularly with Avar and Elzar’s use of and connection to the force in this book.
The subplot of Bell Zettifar and Burryaga exploring the Drengir was just ok. It never hooked me, mostly because it felt like a retread of the themes and storylines we had seen previously.
The attack on Naboo is heavily featured in marketing materials, but that doesn’t happen until almost halfway through the book, and even then ends quite soon. This presented some questionable pacing choices as it just felt off as I read it. The moments during the battle in the middle of the book felt larger than the moments during the climax.
The book is definitely setting the stage for a big finale with Trials of the Jedi. I’m curious if Charles Soule will make that book extra long to fit in everything (like Zahn did with Lesser Evil and Visions of the Future) or whether Soule will be deft and brief enough to keep it in the standard page count.
Overall, this book was entertaining, but is probably my least favorite of the adult High Republic books. But it’s still a very good rating and was enjoyable, which shows how good the adult books have been. 7 out of 10.
The two characters who get the most development are Avar Kris’s and Elzar Mann. From the marketing and the blurbs released, the book appears in some ways to be a romance. While a potential romance is a featured theme between them in the book, it isn’t the entire focus of the book. It raises some questions about the future with the two characters, but I am fairly certain i know how it will pan out and it should have satisfactory answers. I will say that personally it is refreshing to finally see a more traditional relationship in the books though.
Gratton has obviously learned from Charles Soule’s writing on how to write the force itself and she did an excellent job in this book, particularly with Avar and Elzar’s use of and connection to the force in this book.
The subplot of Bell Zettifar and Burryaga exploring the Drengir was just ok. It never hooked me, mostly because it felt like a retread of the themes and storylines we had seen previously.
The attack on Naboo is heavily featured in marketing materials, but that doesn’t happen until almost halfway through the book, and even then ends quite soon. This presented some questionable pacing choices as it just felt off as I read it. The moments during the battle in the middle of the book felt larger than the moments during the climax.
The book is definitely setting the stage for a big finale with Trials of the Jedi. I’m curious if Charles Soule will make that book extra long to fit in everything (like Zahn did with Lesser Evil and Visions of the Future) or whether Soule will be deft and brief enough to keep it in the standard page count.
Overall, this book was entertaining, but is probably my least favorite of the adult High Republic books. But it’s still a very good rating and was enjoyable, which shows how good the adult books have been. 7 out of 10.
June 11, 2024
*screams*
--From my review for my Space Wizards Book Club newsletter--
https://spacewizardbooks.substack.com/
Temptation of the Force was among my most anticipated Star Wars releases of the year. It met and exceeded my expectations, delivering satisfying and emotionally dynamic character studies with a steady pace moving Phase 3 of The High Republic forward.
I’ll cut to the chase — this book is incredible. It’s moving, intense, and chock full of edge-of-your-seat moments. It’s romantic and sweet, and one of the few Star Wars books that fully embraces and explores the power of romantic love among its characters.
As the second adult book in Phase 3, Temptation of the Force had to keep the momentum of The Eye of Darkness and expand storylines just enough to tease how this all will end next spring. The novel not only built upon previously plotted stories, Temptation of the Force also delved into the minds and emotions of its characters so well that it stands on its own.
The core of the novel is the continued fight over the Stormwall — the Jedi and Republic forces trying to take it down and circumventing it to help people trapped behind it in the meantime, and the Nihil fighting to keep the swath of the galaxy they forcefully annexed over a year ago. There’s also a mysterious new Blight destroying every bit of life it touches, no matter which side it’s on.
With Avar Kriss and Elzar Mann on the cover and “temptation” in the title, it was all but confirmed we’d finally get to see the two childhood best friends become lovers. The synopsis also teased the two “embracing their true desires.” I’m hyped for every new High Republic book, but even the slightest possibility of romance made me 100 times more excited for Temptation of the Force.
This is a spoiler-free review, but I will scream from the rooftops how satisfying this book is in the romance department. Temptation of the Force is a beautifully written reminder that the Star Wars galaxy of stories wouldn’t exist without love. If you love love — romantic, platonic, love for life and light, etc. — you will love this book.
Avar and Elzar explore what love means for the Jedi and how they can use that compassion and care not to possess but be better heroes of light and life — together. Bell and Burryaga struggle to reflect on and move forward through their traumas, but realize that love for life, each other, and other living beings are what keeps them going.
Overall, Temptation of the Force is a superb exploration of love, attachment, passion, and balancing those heady emotions. There’s no big battle that brings together all the characters for a needle-moving last stand. There are, however, several intense, gutwrenching, and tear-jerking moments throughout the book. All of these characters, in their own ways, are trying to wrest back power, keep power, or make things right for the innocents caught between the Nihil and Republic sides of the galaxy.
As the title implies, each character is tempted. By love, revenge, desperation, and power. While temptation can be a dangerous thing to give in to, some characters discover how freeing and powerful succumbing feels.
Temptation of the Force both stands apart and ties together previous storylines and books yet to come. The novel ends on an epic cliffhanger that I simply won’t recover from until I can get my hands on Trials of the Jedi.
--From my review for my Space Wizards Book Club newsletter--
https://spacewizardbooks.substack.com/
Temptation of the Force was among my most anticipated Star Wars releases of the year. It met and exceeded my expectations, delivering satisfying and emotionally dynamic character studies with a steady pace moving Phase 3 of The High Republic forward.
I’ll cut to the chase — this book is incredible. It’s moving, intense, and chock full of edge-of-your-seat moments. It’s romantic and sweet, and one of the few Star Wars books that fully embraces and explores the power of romantic love among its characters.
As the second adult book in Phase 3, Temptation of the Force had to keep the momentum of The Eye of Darkness and expand storylines just enough to tease how this all will end next spring. The novel not only built upon previously plotted stories, Temptation of the Force also delved into the minds and emotions of its characters so well that it stands on its own.
The core of the novel is the continued fight over the Stormwall — the Jedi and Republic forces trying to take it down and circumventing it to help people trapped behind it in the meantime, and the Nihil fighting to keep the swath of the galaxy they forcefully annexed over a year ago. There’s also a mysterious new Blight destroying every bit of life it touches, no matter which side it’s on.
With Avar Kriss and Elzar Mann on the cover and “temptation” in the title, it was all but confirmed we’d finally get to see the two childhood best friends become lovers. The synopsis also teased the two “embracing their true desires.” I’m hyped for every new High Republic book, but even the slightest possibility of romance made me 100 times more excited for Temptation of the Force.
This is a spoiler-free review, but I will scream from the rooftops how satisfying this book is in the romance department. Temptation of the Force is a beautifully written reminder that the Star Wars galaxy of stories wouldn’t exist without love. If you love love — romantic, platonic, love for life and light, etc. — you will love this book.
Avar and Elzar explore what love means for the Jedi and how they can use that compassion and care not to possess but be better heroes of light and life — together. Bell and Burryaga struggle to reflect on and move forward through their traumas, but realize that love for life, each other, and other living beings are what keeps them going.
Overall, Temptation of the Force is a superb exploration of love, attachment, passion, and balancing those heady emotions. There’s no big battle that brings together all the characters for a needle-moving last stand. There are, however, several intense, gutwrenching, and tear-jerking moments throughout the book. All of these characters, in their own ways, are trying to wrest back power, keep power, or make things right for the innocents caught between the Nihil and Republic sides of the galaxy.
As the title implies, each character is tempted. By love, revenge, desperation, and power. While temptation can be a dangerous thing to give in to, some characters discover how freeing and powerful succumbing feels.
Temptation of the Force both stands apart and ties together previous storylines and books yet to come. The novel ends on an epic cliffhanger that I simply won’t recover from until I can get my hands on Trials of the Jedi.
June 12, 2024
THAT WAS SO????????
July 9, 2024
When reading Tessa Gratton’s TEMPTATION OF THE FORCE, I couldn’t help but think back to the prequel trilogy of STAR WARS. In ATTACK OF THE CLONES, Anakin Skywalker tells Padmé Amidala, “Attachment is forbidden.” Many people have conflated that line as a Jedi’s denial of love (which might seem fair, seeing how that relationship turned out), however, the next thing he says is, “Compassion, which I would define as unconditional love, is central to a Jedi’s life.” Love is not forbidden, a Jedi just needs to know when the time is right to let go. TEMPTATION OF THE FORCE is a testament to the ways that love and compassion make us stronger. Avar Kriss, Elzar Mann, Marchion Ro, and the rest of the cast have been written by several authors and Tessa Gratton took the reigns flawlessly. In a series so wrought with turmoil, this is a perfect installment in THE HIGH REPUBLIC. It remains my favorite STAR WARS project to date thanks to the incredible writing team behind every book, and while I don’t want to say goodbye, I can’t wait to see how it all wraps up.
Thank you to Penguin Random House for sending me a copy!
Thank you to Penguin Random House for sending me a copy!
June 9, 2024
i need a cigarette sometimes
May 28, 2024
Thanks to Random House Worlds for the review copy of this book.
As a dedicated acolyte of The High Republic series, I have eagerly awaited and devoured each new installment with enthusiasm. From the exhilarating adventures of Phase 1 to the customary Star Wars prequel act of Phase 2, the journey through the High Republic universe has been nothing short of captivating. Combined with the lore to date, and the cover we were gifted for 'Temptation of the Force' by Tessa Gratton, the anticipation was palpable for the latest chapter in this intricate web of storytelling.
From the very first act, Gratton's prose ensnares the reader with its emotional depth and vivid descriptions. The first half of the book, along with the tumultuous final chapters, stand out as the pinnacle of the story's excellence. These sections are brimming with intensity, enthralling plots, and powerful character moments that epitomize the Star Wars ethos.
Fans of Avar Kriss, myself included, will find much to celebrate within the pages of 'Temptation of the Force' as Gratton’s portrayal of the Jedi Master truly shines. Gratton captures Avar's essence stunningly, illustrating her evolution from Phase 1 to the present day. From the heartbreak she and Elzar felt after losing their polestar, Stellan, to the resilience shown after escaping the Occlusion Zone in George Mann's 'Eye of Darkness,' every nuance of Avar's emotional journey is vividly portrayed, drawing readers into her struggle as she grapples with the aftermath of past events.
The world-building in this novel is exemplary. Gratton broadens the High Republic universe with a detailed and engrossing backdrop. The intricate settings and the vivid sense of place are so well-crafted that you can almost feel the environment around you. This level of world-building adds a layer of richness to the universe, making it easy to become absorbed in the story.
The thematic exploration of love, loss, and attachment is a central component of the story and is handled with great care. Gratton delves into the different ways these themes manifest, particularly in the context of the Jedi. This philosophical exploration adds depth to the characters and provides a rich, reflective layer to the lore. It's fascinating to see how the characters grapple with these universal themes, making their struggles and triumphs feel all the more authentic and poignant.
While not required, familiarity with the previous phases enriches the reading experience of 'Temptation of the Force,' offering a gratifying journey for readers who have traversed the entirety of the High Republic saga. Despite any reservations I may have had during the prequel phase of THR, Gratton seamlessly incorporates callbacks to previous entries in the series and weaves in connective tissue from Phase 2.
This continuity not only enriches the experience for long-time readers but also provides a sense of cohesion and progression within the larger story. It's truly rewarding to witness how the threads from earlier books are skillfully woven into 'Temptation of the Force,' creating a narrative that feels both expansive and interconnected. As I delved into the story, I couldn't help but appreciate the rich tapestry of interconnected plotlines, each one evolving and blossoming into captivating arcs within the pages of this book.
However, not everything is perfect. The middle portion of the book - roughly the 25% that follows the gripping first half - felt slightly cumbersome and drawn out. This section seemed to lag, and at times this added to my issue of feeling like phase 3 takes two steps forward and one step back. This might not be an issue for all readers, but I found myself longing for the pace to pick up again as it did in the beginning and end. Despite this, the emotional storytelling kept me engaged enough to push through. To date, ‘Temptation of the Force’ is the best of Gratton’s work that I have experienced, and a must-read for any fan looking to continue their journey during this saga of Star Wars.
9.1/10, “A” tier
As a dedicated acolyte of The High Republic series, I have eagerly awaited and devoured each new installment with enthusiasm. From the exhilarating adventures of Phase 1 to the customary Star Wars prequel act of Phase 2, the journey through the High Republic universe has been nothing short of captivating. Combined with the lore to date, and the cover we were gifted for 'Temptation of the Force' by Tessa Gratton, the anticipation was palpable for the latest chapter in this intricate web of storytelling.
From the very first act, Gratton's prose ensnares the reader with its emotional depth and vivid descriptions. The first half of the book, along with the tumultuous final chapters, stand out as the pinnacle of the story's excellence. These sections are brimming with intensity, enthralling plots, and powerful character moments that epitomize the Star Wars ethos.
Fans of Avar Kriss, myself included, will find much to celebrate within the pages of 'Temptation of the Force' as Gratton’s portrayal of the Jedi Master truly shines. Gratton captures Avar's essence stunningly, illustrating her evolution from Phase 1 to the present day. From the heartbreak she and Elzar felt after losing their polestar, Stellan, to the resilience shown after escaping the Occlusion Zone in George Mann's 'Eye of Darkness,' every nuance of Avar's emotional journey is vividly portrayed, drawing readers into her struggle as she grapples with the aftermath of past events.
The world-building in this novel is exemplary. Gratton broadens the High Republic universe with a detailed and engrossing backdrop. The intricate settings and the vivid sense of place are so well-crafted that you can almost feel the environment around you. This level of world-building adds a layer of richness to the universe, making it easy to become absorbed in the story.
The thematic exploration of love, loss, and attachment is a central component of the story and is handled with great care. Gratton delves into the different ways these themes manifest, particularly in the context of the Jedi. This philosophical exploration adds depth to the characters and provides a rich, reflective layer to the lore. It's fascinating to see how the characters grapple with these universal themes, making their struggles and triumphs feel all the more authentic and poignant.
While not required, familiarity with the previous phases enriches the reading experience of 'Temptation of the Force,' offering a gratifying journey for readers who have traversed the entirety of the High Republic saga. Despite any reservations I may have had during the prequel phase of THR, Gratton seamlessly incorporates callbacks to previous entries in the series and weaves in connective tissue from Phase 2.
This continuity not only enriches the experience for long-time readers but also provides a sense of cohesion and progression within the larger story. It's truly rewarding to witness how the threads from earlier books are skillfully woven into 'Temptation of the Force,' creating a narrative that feels both expansive and interconnected. As I delved into the story, I couldn't help but appreciate the rich tapestry of interconnected plotlines, each one evolving and blossoming into captivating arcs within the pages of this book.
However, not everything is perfect. The middle portion of the book - roughly the 25% that follows the gripping first half - felt slightly cumbersome and drawn out. This section seemed to lag, and at times this added to my issue of feeling like phase 3 takes two steps forward and one step back. This might not be an issue for all readers, but I found myself longing for the pace to pick up again as it did in the beginning and end. Despite this, the emotional storytelling kept me engaged enough to push through. To date, ‘Temptation of the Force’ is the best of Gratton’s work that I have experienced, and a must-read for any fan looking to continue their journey during this saga of Star Wars.
9.1/10, “A” tier
July 23, 2024
The adult books for The High Republic never miss, and Temptation of the Force is the best of them all so far! I loved everything about this book and the ending has me begging for the next one to be released immediately. Tessa Gratton does a phenomenal job at balancing characters and plotlines, making the whole book feel cohesive and very well planned. The character development was excellent, and all the characters I've come to love got their moments to really shine. I have no notes. Solid 5 stars.
July 19, 2024
marchion thinks he fell out of a coconut tree, but the jedi understand that the Force exists in the context of all in which they live and what came before them.
July 4, 2024
The relationship between Avar and Elzar felt very well developed and compelling. It was nice to see their relationship take such a prominent role in an adult novel for the first time since Light of the Jedi. I think most fans of the Avar and Elzar pairing will appreciate that aspect of this book.
The friendship between Burry and Bell also stood out as a highlight to me. I've really come to care about this bond between them (I love the detail of Bell learning to speak Shyriwook to better communicate with Burry, and how much Burry genuinely appreciates that effort on Bell's part). Burry in particular gets some excellent development of his empathetic abilities and how they can be a powerful resource both in confronting the Nameless threat and potentially the blight as well. Especially if combined and amplified with Avar's abilities.
Ghirra Starros was probably a more interesting character to me in this than Marchion Ro, and I did enjoy her scene with Avon.
Avon continues to be a wonderful character for me. I just love her personality and the way she thinks. She has grown so much from Test of Courage as well. It's amazing.
The battle sequences were strong overall, and the blight to me emerged as the biggest threat more so than the previously mentioned Marchion Ro and even the Nameless.
The ending was a genuine cliffhanger.
The friendship between Burry and Bell also stood out as a highlight to me. I've really come to care about this bond between them (I love the detail of Bell learning to speak Shyriwook to better communicate with Burry, and how much Burry genuinely appreciates that effort on Bell's part). Burry in particular gets some excellent development of his empathetic abilities and how they can be a powerful resource both in confronting the Nameless threat and potentially the blight as well. Especially if combined and amplified with Avar's abilities.
Ghirra Starros was probably a more interesting character to me in this than Marchion Ro, and I did enjoy her scene with Avon.
Avon continues to be a wonderful character for me. I just love her personality and the way she thinks. She has grown so much from Test of Courage as well. It's amazing.
The battle sequences were strong overall, and the blight to me emerged as the biggest threat more so than the previously mentioned Marchion Ro and even the Nameless.
The ending was a genuine cliffhanger.
July 15, 2024
Really enjoyed this one and really felt like a phase 1 book
June 13, 2024
This felt like all of the pieces from Phase I and II with the beginning foundation of Phase III coming together to start to set up the finale. It felt rewarding and it’s not even the conclusion yet. This is Tessa’s best work so far in Star Wars coming from someone who has mostly really enjoyed her other works. The book is full of rich characters with a conflict that’s a bit stretched too thin but feels like it comes together at the to end to set up the final few projects in this initiative. I am seated and I am so ready and not at the same time.
June 19, 2024
3.5, the better of the series so far, but still a bit hindered by how much it has to lift. These feel written by committee, to their detriment, but this one stands out as having the best romance of any Canon Star Wars and one of the only new Star Wars books to remind me of my favorite parts of The New Jedi Order series. It is still, at times, overly preachy and stuck in the complexities of the wider publishing project, but Gratton has a stand out volume in a sprawling series with this entry. It held my attention throughout, something the series has not done overall. I look forward to the conclusion it is setting up, although I think I can guess where it’s heading.
June 17, 2024
It occurred to me, about halfway through Tessa Gratton’s Temptation of the Force that this is the second to last adult novel of The High Republic. Of course, we’ve got the audio drama coming this December, and several more books, and even more comics coming between now and the end, but that sense of building to a grand finale became harder to shake once it settled in. Fortunately, Temptation of the Force doesn’t ask you to shake that feeling. It embraces it wholeheartedly, setting the stage and building everything to a boiling point in a way that makes it impossible to put down.
The story follows both the Jedi and their Republic allies, as well as the Nihil as the two engage in a fight over the Stormwall — with the Jedi fighting to take it down, or at the very least breach it — and the Nihil fighting to maintain the power they’ve won. At the same time, both sides are now dealing with a new Blight, first seen in Defy the Storm, that destroys all life it comes in contact with.
Where this book truly stands out, particularly with the real world climate in which it is released, is how spread thin the characters are. There isn’t one Big Battle they’re all gearing up to fight — though I’m certain that’s where the series will culminate. At this stage, we just find our heroes each pursuing their own avenue all in the name of doing what they consider to be the right thing. Communication isn’t always possible, nor is mobilization. Instead they’re just left to survive and fight in the best way they can, sometimes contradicting the efforts of others, including those they love, but with everyone united in a vaguely common cause.
That really is what’s at the heart of this story. As Gratton mentions in their author’s note at the end of the book, Temptation of the Force is truly a story about love, and that shines through on every page. Whatever kind of love it might be, it has a home in this book. That line in Attack of the Clones where Anakin tells Padmé that the Jedi are, in their way, encouraged to love, is really examined here in the way the characters all interact — or in some cases, don’t — with one another.
RIP Anakin Skywalker, you would have loved Temptation of the Force.
Temptation of the Force hits shelves on June 11. Special thank you to Random House Worlds for the advance copy for review purposes.
The story follows both the Jedi and their Republic allies, as well as the Nihil as the two engage in a fight over the Stormwall — with the Jedi fighting to take it down, or at the very least breach it — and the Nihil fighting to maintain the power they’ve won. At the same time, both sides are now dealing with a new Blight, first seen in Defy the Storm, that destroys all life it comes in contact with.
Where this book truly stands out, particularly with the real world climate in which it is released, is how spread thin the characters are. There isn’t one Big Battle they’re all gearing up to fight — though I’m certain that’s where the series will culminate. At this stage, we just find our heroes each pursuing their own avenue all in the name of doing what they consider to be the right thing. Communication isn’t always possible, nor is mobilization. Instead they’re just left to survive and fight in the best way they can, sometimes contradicting the efforts of others, including those they love, but with everyone united in a vaguely common cause.
That really is what’s at the heart of this story. As Gratton mentions in their author’s note at the end of the book, Temptation of the Force is truly a story about love, and that shines through on every page. Whatever kind of love it might be, it has a home in this book. That line in Attack of the Clones where Anakin tells Padmé that the Jedi are, in their way, encouraged to love, is really examined here in the way the characters all interact — or in some cases, don’t — with one another.
RIP Anakin Skywalker, you would have loved Temptation of the Force.
Temptation of the Force hits shelves on June 11. Special thank you to Random House Worlds for the advance copy for review purposes.
July 8, 2024
I guess I’m invested in finishing this series at this point? But this book just opened up more questions than it answered. These books hold alot of Ro and his Evereni heritage close to the chest, where I wish they’d explore that more. There were hardly any fun action sequences in this either. Very slow and plodding read. Enjoyed phase 1 of the High Republic and had whiplash with the back-in-time jump of phase 2. I also think this is a bigger project than I’d prefer. With it being multimedia there are so many gaps in understanding and character development that are missed if you are only consuming the adult novels like me.
July 11, 2024
Exciting, interesting subplots for multiple characters, more Ro… I enjoyed it!
June 28, 2024
One of the better High Republic novels. I liked that the author could write a high stakes novel without having massive set-piece battles. The focus on the relationships between characters made this book feel more personal than most of the others in this series.
June 24, 2024
I was very excited for this book and it was kind of disappointing tbh.
July 7, 2024
"In times like that just remember who you are – who you want to be. Who you can be. Focus on that. Fight with me, if that is who you can be. But if you cannot, you do not have to fight. I won’t ask that of you. There are people already fighting for you. For all of us. All I am asking of you today is that you live. Live today, and try to find hope tomorrow. This is Jedi Master Avar Kriss. Help is on the way."
Set some weeks after the events of Defy the Storm, Temptation of the Force follows the Jedi as they attempt to find a way to safely cross the Stormwall and liberate planets seized by the Nihil. Avar Kriss and Elzar Mann are drawn together and they are forced to make decisions about their future, while Burryaga Agaburry investigates the strange phenomenon known as the blight with his friend, Bell. And all the while Marchion Ro hatches his plans.
I really loved this novel. I knew I would the moment I read the synopsis back when it was announced. It's not just that I have enjoyed Tessa Gratton's Star Wars stuff a lot in the past and trust her to be able to tell a really good story, but the book also focuses on three of my all time fave THR characters - Elzar Mann, Avar Kriss and Burryaga – and also has so many others I love whole-heartedly in the supporting cast (Vernestra, Avon, Xylan, Cair, Bell and so on). This novel was so satisfying as its own book but also as a sequel to The Eye of Darkness and Defy the Storm. It drove the plot forward, answered some questions, set the stage for the future really well and developed its main cast in a way that made me giddy and excited. It also had super cool ties to events of Phase 2, with Marchion seeing his ancestors (Marda, my weird fucked up girl!) and Porter hunting Viess. Temptation of the Force was, all in all, a truly great, well-done novel and a worthy addition to the High Republic.
I tend to like my SW novels to be less so focused on one big event and more about many little plot lines that all converge in the end. I liked how in this book we had Bell and Burry on their own mission investigating the blight and possible Drengir sightings, Avar going back and forth the Stormwall, Elzar struggling with his role as the middleman between the Senate and the Jedi, Marchion fucking off to do his own sleuthing and leaving his Nihil to fend for themselves, Cair leading an undercover rebel organisation and Porter Engle on a manhunt. There was so much going on but the book never felt bogged down or too fast: it balanced between the personal and the action really well. I felt connected to all storylines and I found the ways they intersected, some more than others, satisfying. It was also cool getting to see characters that we have not before seen interact that much share scenes – I liked the way Elzar kinda relates to Avon and enjoys her scathing honesty, I enjoyed seeing Vernestra spend more time with her master's two oldest and dearest friends, and it was fun seeing more Jedi than just Vernestra deal with the shimmering chaos that is Xylan Graf. I also enjoyed the way this book had many threats: we have the Nameless, the Nihil, the blight and Drengir shenanigans. I cannot wait to see
The most satisfying aspect of Temptation of the Force was, for me, the character and relationship stuff. Tessa Gratton has talked about how this story is an ode to love in all its forms and it truly is that. We have the beautiful platonic love between Burryaga and Bell, the strained love between Avon and Ghirra, the longing Elzar and Avar feel for Stellan, and, of course, the centre of the book is the eternal, profound and loyal love between Elzar and Avar. I ship them so much, so this book was naturally like catnip for me. As a Stellan/Avar/Elzar truther, this novel did nothing to make me doubt my conviction that they were and are in love, all three of them. The way Stellan is present in every intimate moment between the two - as a memory, a thought, the third star in their constellation - was impeccably done and made me feel both sad and warm. The three of them will always be a trio, even if one of them is gone, because, as we know, no one is ever really gone, not when they are part of the Force and the Force is in Avar and Elzar both and in their love. This quote on the trio especially made me emotional: ”Their names could be enough in these shadowy close quarters. The frayed ends of their friendship eager to be knotted back together, a braid of Avar, Elzar, their pasts, Stellan, the song and the tide of the Force.” This book had, in general, absolutely incredible quotes about love, connection, caring and hope, and how all those things are tied together, how love is the driving force behind everything. Those quotes were such pure Star Wars and reminded me of quotes like Matthew Stover's "Love can ignite the stars". I loved this one: ”Depends on what is meant by love, I believe. – Some beings think love is connection. Love is recognizing you, in me. In the whole galaxy. To name a thing is to love it, some teachings say; others that love is vulnerability or a natural, bodily need. – What the real answer is, I do not know. But if you find the answer for yourself, and it opens the Force to you more widely, brings you closer to the light, then wrong you cannot be.” This one made me so fucking emotional cause THIS IS STAR WARS AT ITS CORE: ”If there was an end to the Force, to love, to hope, don’t you think we’d have found it in the last few years? But we’re black holes for love. Unending notes and bottomless seas. We make the galaxy bigger with love, with the Force bursting inside us.” Tessa Gratton really did write a superb story about love. And I have to praise her for the fact that she managed to nudge Elzar and Avar forward after so many books and comics of yearning and pining in a way that felt just right: she did one of the main love stories of this whole saga justice.
Elzar and Avar both developed beautifully. It has been such a delight following them over the years and seeing them go through so much shit, both good and bad. For me, this book was, for Elzar, about healing, finding new hope and accepting your complexities, whereas, when it comes to Avar, I delighted in witnessing how she had matured and grown, become more stable and more in tune with herself and what her own strengths are. She has learned to let go of some of the things she thought made her better and embrace the things that actually give her strength and make her the best version of herself she can be. I also adored Burryaga in this book. He is one of my favorites and so, to experience the world through his eyes and get to know him more intimately, was so much fun. He is my sweetest precious little boy and I would give a kidney for him. I love his adoring friendship with Bell, and I liked how Gratton explored the depths of his empathy, both the bad and the good that come with being so in tune with the feelings of others. Some of my fave moments in the book had to do with him connecting with people and beasts, such as him Burryaga is so integral to this story and everything the Jedi learn in this book, and after him being more on the back burner for quite a while, mostly there as Bell's bestie, it made me so happy to see him get to shine. And shine he did. Cair became even dearer to me than he was before, Xylan is still an absolute blast and naturally I still adore Vernestra and Avon. Lina Soh and Ghirra were an interesting duo in this book as they are such wonderful foils of each other, one on the side of good, one on the side of evil, but both having so much in common. I don't like Ghirra but her scenes and plot line is very interesting – I do love myself some good SW politics!
Ahh, I am so happy this book worked for me because if the story that had this much stuff I was looking forward to happening would have been dull or bad, I would've been heartbroken. Tessa Gratton continues to deliver quality art!
Set some weeks after the events of Defy the Storm, Temptation of the Force follows the Jedi as they attempt to find a way to safely cross the Stormwall and liberate planets seized by the Nihil. Avar Kriss and Elzar Mann are drawn together and they are forced to make decisions about their future, while Burryaga Agaburry investigates the strange phenomenon known as the blight with his friend, Bell. And all the while Marchion Ro hatches his plans.
I really loved this novel. I knew I would the moment I read the synopsis back when it was announced. It's not just that I have enjoyed Tessa Gratton's Star Wars stuff a lot in the past and trust her to be able to tell a really good story, but the book also focuses on three of my all time fave THR characters - Elzar Mann, Avar Kriss and Burryaga – and also has so many others I love whole-heartedly in the supporting cast (Vernestra, Avon, Xylan, Cair, Bell and so on). This novel was so satisfying as its own book but also as a sequel to The Eye of Darkness and Defy the Storm. It drove the plot forward, answered some questions, set the stage for the future really well and developed its main cast in a way that made me giddy and excited. It also had super cool ties to events of Phase 2, with Marchion seeing his ancestors (Marda, my weird fucked up girl!) and Porter hunting Viess. Temptation of the Force was, all in all, a truly great, well-done novel and a worthy addition to the High Republic.
I tend to like my SW novels to be less so focused on one big event and more about many little plot lines that all converge in the end. I liked how in this book we had Bell and Burry on their own mission investigating the blight and possible Drengir sightings, Avar going back and forth the Stormwall, Elzar struggling with his role as the middleman between the Senate and the Jedi, Marchion fucking off to do his own sleuthing and leaving his Nihil to fend for themselves, Cair leading an undercover rebel organisation and Porter Engle on a manhunt. There was so much going on but the book never felt bogged down or too fast: it balanced between the personal and the action really well. I felt connected to all storylines and I found the ways they intersected, some more than others, satisfying. It was also cool getting to see characters that we have not before seen interact that much share scenes – I liked the way Elzar kinda relates to Avon and enjoys her scathing honesty, I enjoyed seeing Vernestra spend more time with her master's two oldest and dearest friends, and it was fun seeing more Jedi than just Vernestra deal with the shimmering chaos that is Xylan Graf. I also enjoyed the way this book had many threats: we have the Nameless, the Nihil, the blight and Drengir shenanigans. I cannot wait to see
The most satisfying aspect of Temptation of the Force was, for me, the character and relationship stuff. Tessa Gratton has talked about how this story is an ode to love in all its forms and it truly is that. We have the beautiful platonic love between Burryaga and Bell, the strained love between Avon and Ghirra, the longing Elzar and Avar feel for Stellan, and, of course, the centre of the book is the eternal, profound and loyal love between Elzar and Avar. I ship them so much, so this book was naturally like catnip for me. As a Stellan/Avar/Elzar truther, this novel did nothing to make me doubt my conviction that they were and are in love, all three of them. The way Stellan is present in every intimate moment between the two - as a memory, a thought, the third star in their constellation - was impeccably done and made me feel both sad and warm. The three of them will always be a trio, even if one of them is gone, because, as we know, no one is ever really gone, not when they are part of the Force and the Force is in Avar and Elzar both and in their love. This quote on the trio especially made me emotional: ”Their names could be enough in these shadowy close quarters. The frayed ends of their friendship eager to be knotted back together, a braid of Avar, Elzar, their pasts, Stellan, the song and the tide of the Force.” This book had, in general, absolutely incredible quotes about love, connection, caring and hope, and how all those things are tied together, how love is the driving force behind everything. Those quotes were such pure Star Wars and reminded me of quotes like Matthew Stover's "Love can ignite the stars". I loved this one: ”Depends on what is meant by love, I believe. – Some beings think love is connection. Love is recognizing you, in me. In the whole galaxy. To name a thing is to love it, some teachings say; others that love is vulnerability or a natural, bodily need. – What the real answer is, I do not know. But if you find the answer for yourself, and it opens the Force to you more widely, brings you closer to the light, then wrong you cannot be.” This one made me so fucking emotional cause THIS IS STAR WARS AT ITS CORE: ”If there was an end to the Force, to love, to hope, don’t you think we’d have found it in the last few years? But we’re black holes for love. Unending notes and bottomless seas. We make the galaxy bigger with love, with the Force bursting inside us.” Tessa Gratton really did write a superb story about love. And I have to praise her for the fact that she managed to nudge Elzar and Avar forward after so many books and comics of yearning and pining in a way that felt just right: she did one of the main love stories of this whole saga justice.
Elzar and Avar both developed beautifully. It has been such a delight following them over the years and seeing them go through so much shit, both good and bad. For me, this book was, for Elzar, about healing, finding new hope and accepting your complexities, whereas, when it comes to Avar, I delighted in witnessing how she had matured and grown, become more stable and more in tune with herself and what her own strengths are. She has learned to let go of some of the things she thought made her better and embrace the things that actually give her strength and make her the best version of herself she can be. I also adored Burryaga in this book. He is one of my favorites and so, to experience the world through his eyes and get to know him more intimately, was so much fun. He is my sweetest precious little boy and I would give a kidney for him. I love his adoring friendship with Bell, and I liked how Gratton explored the depths of his empathy, both the bad and the good that come with being so in tune with the feelings of others. Some of my fave moments in the book had to do with him connecting with people and beasts, such as him Burryaga is so integral to this story and everything the Jedi learn in this book, and after him being more on the back burner for quite a while, mostly there as Bell's bestie, it made me so happy to see him get to shine. And shine he did. Cair became even dearer to me than he was before, Xylan is still an absolute blast and naturally I still adore Vernestra and Avon. Lina Soh and Ghirra were an interesting duo in this book as they are such wonderful foils of each other, one on the side of good, one on the side of evil, but both having so much in common. I don't like Ghirra but her scenes and plot line is very interesting – I do love myself some good SW politics!
Ahh, I am so happy this book worked for me because if the story that had this much stuff I was looking forward to happening would have been dull or bad, I would've been heartbroken. Tessa Gratton continues to deliver quality art!
July 3, 2024
I have been a fan of Tessa Gratton’s work since she blazed in with Justina Ireland in their fantastic High Republic opener, Path of Deceit.
Temptation of the force cements her as a contender for my favorite Luminous author in contest with Ireland and Gray.
Temptation of the Force both feels like the culmination of 3 phases, 13 YA and adult novels as well as the beginning of the end of this grand publishing initiative. It feels weird and kind of sad that we are nearing the completion of the High Republic project in a year’s time.
Where in Phase 1 the YA and Middle Grade novels were wonderful additions, they did not feel like a major part of the main storyline. Important, in no way of lesser quality, but more their own sub plot.
This changed in Phase 2 where the Adult novels and YA were two sides of a coin and both telling elements of the same story.
Phase 3 seems to put as much importance in the YA novels this time, but making a better effort to relay what has been happening in those novels. The Drengir introduction from Into the Dark is an important element but it is the storyline from Out of the Shadows and Defy the Storm that is a major part of Temptation of the Force’s plot.
Like I said, it feels like a culmination and convergence of many character arcs and plotlines, a lot like The Fallen Star did, only that was the conclusion of a Phase where this is the halfway point.
We have a very nice selection of familiar POV characters.
Obviously, the story revolves around Avar and Elzar. The first having refound her balance and song in the Force and being an overall way more powerful and steady Jedi Master than we’ve seen her in a long time. Same, sort of, relatively, goes for Elzar. He is still an emotional mess, with deep seeded issues, but we see him grow into a steadier form of himself throughout. The titular temptation and romance is central to their arcs. I normally am not that interested in romance focused stories, but (once again after fully immersing me in Marda and Kevmo’s romance in Path of Deceit) I was fully on board with their troubled, fragile but at the same time so powerful connection. I loved it, and was truly moved and rooting for them by the end.
The other romance in the story is that between Cair San Tekka and Xylan Graf. I love these two characters; they are a chaotic equilibrium with a deep connection but conflicting personalities. We see this relationship from Cair’s POV and we get more of his covert operations and rebelling against the Nihil from inside the Occlusion Zone.
Porter Engel is once again a major part of the book though he kind of follows his own path, not interacting much with the rest. His temptation leads him to dark places and epic battles.
Burryaga is the POV for Bell and Burry’s side of the story this time and I enjoyed it a lot. His innate empathy and deep connection to living things is fantastically written and it makes the traumatic experiences from this and past books even more poignant.
Vernestra is part of the story, continuing on from Defy the Storm (like Cair), we only get a handful of POVs from her but they are quite impactful. I was especially happy with the way that we see Vernestra move towards the way we see her in The Acolyte, with a distrust growing in both the order, the council and the ways the Nihil threat is handled at large.
The politics between the Republic and the Nihil is viewed from Lina Soh, Girrah Starros and Elzar’s POVs. We get a nice amount of Coruscant locations, visualized through Gratton’s expert style, which is always a big win.
Last, but not least, we follow Marchion Ro as he has finally found something to rouse him from his lethargy that plagued him since the Fall of Starlight. This reinvigorated Eye of the Nihil is once again chilling, terrifying, plotting with a good portion of madness. His actions once again are set to plunge the galaxy into chaos.
As said, Gratton’s writing style, characterization, visualizations and deep dialogues are on full display. There are some amazing discussions about the Force and deep dives into the nature of the Nameless’ terror, the Drengir’s hunger and the void of the blight that has been spreading on planets.
The romance scenes are spicy and layered with emotion and underlying troubles. The political maneuvering feels very prequiel-esque in its deliberation and antagonization.
The plot itself is wonderfully paced, the formula of having an action-packed half of the book has been overhauled to be more balanced, with time to breathe in-between without taking away from the weight and excitement of those moments. The fights and encounters had me on the edge of my seat for what would happen next and in fear for the lives of my favorite characters. Something that a book does not always manage.
I have very little negative to say about this novel, I just loved it. It hits you hard in the feelings, brings you to beautiful and terrible locations, has both tense and emotional dialogues as well as gripping action and combat. It did not draw me into a binge read like some THR novels did, but taking my time with the story and characters is more often my preference anyway and it was definitley influenced by my baby squirrel brain hopping between 6 different books to read at the same time.
There now are some months to go before Star Wars: The High Republic: Beware the Nameless arrives so I might fill in that time with other SW books yet to read. But between this and the fantastic The Acolyte show, us High Republic fans have been eating oh so good.<3
Temptation of the force cements her as a contender for my favorite Luminous author in contest with Ireland and Gray.
Temptation of the Force both feels like the culmination of 3 phases, 13 YA and adult novels as well as the beginning of the end of this grand publishing initiative. It feels weird and kind of sad that we are nearing the completion of the High Republic project in a year’s time.
Where in Phase 1 the YA and Middle Grade novels were wonderful additions, they did not feel like a major part of the main storyline. Important, in no way of lesser quality, but more their own sub plot.
This changed in Phase 2 where the Adult novels and YA were two sides of a coin and both telling elements of the same story.
Phase 3 seems to put as much importance in the YA novels this time, but making a better effort to relay what has been happening in those novels. The Drengir introduction from Into the Dark is an important element but it is the storyline from Out of the Shadows and Defy the Storm that is a major part of Temptation of the Force’s plot.
Like I said, it feels like a culmination and convergence of many character arcs and plotlines, a lot like The Fallen Star did, only that was the conclusion of a Phase where this is the halfway point.
We have a very nice selection of familiar POV characters.
Obviously, the story revolves around Avar and Elzar. The first having refound her balance and song in the Force and being an overall way more powerful and steady Jedi Master than we’ve seen her in a long time. Same, sort of, relatively, goes for Elzar. He is still an emotional mess, with deep seeded issues, but we see him grow into a steadier form of himself throughout. The titular temptation and romance is central to their arcs. I normally am not that interested in romance focused stories, but (once again after fully immersing me in Marda and Kevmo’s romance in Path of Deceit) I was fully on board with their troubled, fragile but at the same time so powerful connection. I loved it, and was truly moved and rooting for them by the end.
The other romance in the story is that between Cair San Tekka and Xylan Graf. I love these two characters; they are a chaotic equilibrium with a deep connection but conflicting personalities. We see this relationship from Cair’s POV and we get more of his covert operations and rebelling against the Nihil from inside the Occlusion Zone.
Porter Engel is once again a major part of the book though he kind of follows his own path, not interacting much with the rest. His temptation leads him to dark places and epic battles.
Burryaga is the POV for Bell and Burry’s side of the story this time and I enjoyed it a lot. His innate empathy and deep connection to living things is fantastically written and it makes the traumatic experiences from this and past books even more poignant.
Vernestra is part of the story, continuing on from Defy the Storm (like Cair), we only get a handful of POVs from her but they are quite impactful. I was especially happy with the way that we see Vernestra move towards the way we see her in The Acolyte, with a distrust growing in both the order, the council and the ways the Nihil threat is handled at large.
The politics between the Republic and the Nihil is viewed from Lina Soh, Girrah Starros and Elzar’s POVs. We get a nice amount of Coruscant locations, visualized through Gratton’s expert style, which is always a big win.
Last, but not least, we follow Marchion Ro as he has finally found something to rouse him from his lethargy that plagued him since the Fall of Starlight. This reinvigorated Eye of the Nihil is once again chilling, terrifying, plotting with a good portion of madness. His actions once again are set to plunge the galaxy into chaos.
As said, Gratton’s writing style, characterization, visualizations and deep dialogues are on full display. There are some amazing discussions about the Force and deep dives into the nature of the Nameless’ terror, the Drengir’s hunger and the void of the blight that has been spreading on planets.
The romance scenes are spicy and layered with emotion and underlying troubles. The political maneuvering feels very prequiel-esque in its deliberation and antagonization.
The plot itself is wonderfully paced, the formula of having an action-packed half of the book has been overhauled to be more balanced, with time to breathe in-between without taking away from the weight and excitement of those moments. The fights and encounters had me on the edge of my seat for what would happen next and in fear for the lives of my favorite characters. Something that a book does not always manage.
I have very little negative to say about this novel, I just loved it. It hits you hard in the feelings, brings you to beautiful and terrible locations, has both tense and emotional dialogues as well as gripping action and combat. It did not draw me into a binge read like some THR novels did, but taking my time with the story and characters is more often my preference anyway and it was definitley influenced by my baby squirrel brain hopping between 6 different books to read at the same time.
There now are some months to go before Star Wars: The High Republic: Beware the Nameless arrives so I might fill in that time with other SW books yet to read. But between this and the fantastic The Acolyte show, us High Republic fans have been eating oh so good.<3
June 25, 2024
This was such a good book!!!! I can't believe this is the second to last adult book in the high republic. The book was so long and it just kept going, everytime I thought it was the climax there was more. I can't believe the Drengir are back that's so crazy. It was also cool that Burryaga and Elzar and Avar all took out a Nameless. I also did not expect the romance between Avar and Elzar but ok. The blight is also so crazy like what is going on. Ro is so annoying I hope he gets arrested by the Republic. Ghirra Starros was also so annoying but I'm glad she helped Avon and the Jedi eventually kind of. Where is Reath? The ending of Defy the Storm was so crazy and he wasn't even mentioned nor was the other guy Rell. I feel so bad for Burryaga and Bell and Vernestra I feel like they've gone through so much in the books and in the first book they were young and now they're older and see so much. I'm glad Ember is still in the books too. Porter Engle went off on a whole thing against Viess and he didn't even kill her at the end of the book, she escaped!! I was so annoyed. Cair is so nice I'm glad he's in the books still I don't like Xylan he is so annoying every time he gets less annoying he does something stupid like trapped Cair on the ship let what Cair should divorce him honestly. I can't believe the High Republic is getting close to the end its crazy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2024
Make this a strong but frustrating 3.5 stars...these books are starting to feel like 2-steps-forward, 2-steps-sideways. The strongest bits involve the relationship between Avar & Elzar...but that's a microcosm of the entire novel, as they get closer and closer...then only so far...then try again...there's delayed gratification, but there's also treading water. Then there's the introduction of the Blight...even as the threat of the Nameless is only starting to be dealt with at last...why egg the pudding so much? It was enjoyable for what it was, but it's leaving me scratching my head as to where it's all going.
July 9, 2024
What even is there to say? Everything in this book is so masterfully written and so excellently builds up the finale we’ve been waiting years for. The dialogue between characters feels more believable and genuine than ever before, and this book truly is an emotional rollercoaster. Gratton has written a masterpiece of Star Wars fiction, and the level of dread she has left me with for the final novel cannot be understated. It was truly an incredible read and I loved every moment of it from start to finish.
July 12, 2024
This was a great book. I luckily avoided the spoilers, and wow, I am so grateful. I thoroughly enjoyed how this discussed love concerning a Jedi's commitment to the service of the light and life. There is a fine line when it comes to love and passion, and that was written so well when comparing Elza and Avar with Porter and Barash.
I can't wait to keep reading the story, although there seems to be so much left to wrap up -- what a cliffhanger!!!!!
I can't wait to keep reading the story, although there seems to be so much left to wrap up -- what a cliffhanger!!!!!
June 20, 2024
Great Book!
Only reason it's not 5 stars is that it got a bit haphazard at times, especially during descriptions of Force visions (or lack of Force visions). But those are pretty rare.
Overall, I'm 100% in as a KrissMann shipper. After reading Dark Disciple, then this book, I'm glad for a little romance mixed into my Space Opera.
Only reason it's not 5 stars is that it got a bit haphazard at times, especially during descriptions of Force visions (or lack of Force visions). But those are pretty rare.
Overall, I'm 100% in as a KrissMann shipper. After reading Dark Disciple, then this book, I'm glad for a little romance mixed into my Space Opera.
June 26, 2024
Felt this was a bit more disjointed than the last one. Elzar Mann continues to be the best character this series has introduced. Loved the discussions the Jedi made about failure and choosing to continue.
June 24, 2024
What a disappointment this book turned out to be. While not quite as bad as Fallen Star—the action scenes are fun and Gratton excels at writing panic—it is another case of a young adult author struggling to make the transition to the adult series, turning in the longest novel with the least happening yet. The writing style, in particular, was a mess and an absolute slog to read. It felt more like fan fiction than a published author. Gratton also struggled to connect with the core cast, writing them either without personality or as caricatures of themselves. She came to life with her own characters, though, which she included so heavily as to make this book feel like a sequel to the young adult or comic series rather than the adult books. The crossover was so heavy that I found I just didn’t care about the characters and plot lines being continued from stuff I hadn’t read. I was originally excited by the High Republic as a fresh start unburdened by all the ouroboros self referential weight dragging down the rest of the line, but it has now become one of the worst offenders. Frustrating.
June 29, 2024
what the fuuuuuuuuck
June 30, 2024
my aesthetic is accurate representation of the jedi rule of attachment
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