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Star Wars: The High Republic: Defy The Storm Book Review

“Star Wars: The High Republic: Defy The Storm” is a character centric novel.

Written by Tessa Gratton and Justina Ireland, “Star Wars: The High Republic: Defy The Storm” is the latest book in the third phase. Instead of focusing on the overarching plot and conflict, this particular novel is more of an interconnected ensemble piece that primarily revolves around Avon Starros, Vernestra Rwoh, Xylan Graf, Jordanna Sparkburn, and Deva Lompop. The group of characters all have their own missions. Scientist Avon Starros (daughter of Nihil Senator Ghirra Starros) wants to save Jedi Padawan Imri AND destroy the Stormwall. She wants the help of Imri’s Master Vernestra Rwoh to find Imri. Xylan Graf becomes an asset to various character’s missions due to his knowledge of the Stormwall (no spoilers here). Jordanna Sparkburn is looking to find her family behind the Occlusion Zone. She receives help from her cousin Cair (who has a connection to Xylan). Deva (a Nihil) is also aiding the characters in their quests in an unlikely alliance. 

For those hoping to see the key storylines escalate further, you don’t really get that in ‘Defy The Storm.’ As mentioned above, this is more of a characterization piece. Yes, there are a few pivotal questions answered here such as Imri’s whereabouts and further information about Path Codes and Stormwall, but for the most part we (the audience) are embarking on missions and or rescue missions with a group of characters. It’s more of a personal story in that respect. Of course, other major characters in this timeline like Yoda and Reath Silas pop up here and there as well. 

Character wise, everyone gets their chance to shine here. It was refreshing to check back in with Vernestra and Avon especially. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect here is the pair-ups of characters with Xylan and Avon, Vernestra and Deva and Jordana and Cair all having their own journeys. One can argue there’s a bit too many scenes of characters planning and traveling around, but exposition cannot be avoided. 

Without getting too much into spoiler territory there is one major plot development that will surely be the main topic of discussion for Star Wars book aficionados. Let’s just say it involves the state of Arli’s moon. It’s the clear highlight of this book and it poses a lot of disturbing questions for the future of Phase 3. 

March 12, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Book review | Star Wars, Star Wars Books, Star Wars: The High Republic, Star Wars: The High Republic: Defy The Storm Book Review