The High Republic: Midnight Horizon - Book Review

As part of the conclusion to Phase I of The High Republic, author Daniel José Older makes his Young Adult debut in the all-new era of Star Wars storytelling with Midnight Horizon—and man, it is a stellar one. The novel is almost like an extension of Older’s IDW comic series, The High Republic Adventures (particularly the events of the 12th issue), with Padawans Ram Jomaram, Zeen Mrala, and Jedi Master Kantam Sy taking the spotlight along with Reath Silas and Cohmac Vitus (who were first introduced by Claudia Gray’s Into the Dark). To balance out the Jedi-centered tale, the novel (re)introduces one of Star Wars’ most fascinating new characters: Alys “Crash” Ongwa (inspired by Doctor Aphra comic writer Alyssa Wong), whose first brief appearance (along with her crew) was included in The High Republic Adventures Annual 2021 with the short story Crash and the Crew Do What They Do. The two parties join forces to investigate and eventually fight an unexpected Nihil threat in the Core world of Corellia, just as the tragic fall of Starlight Beacon takes place in the Outer Rim.

Midnight Horizon could be considered the best Star Wars book of 2022 so far, and here’s why. Not only does the book feature Older’s best comedic writing (the author’s use of galactic slang and playful dialogs always feels fresh and entertaining); love, friendship, and the pursuit of one’s path are the key themes of this beautiful story. For love, Older delves deeper into the relationship between Lula and Zeen as well as giving a glimpse of Kantam’s romantic past. For friendship, Midnight Horizon pairs Ram and Reath together—turning their casual friendship into a strong brotherly bond. And in terms of the pursuit of one’s path, the author excels in character development—especially with Ram and Reath’s struggles in finding their true purpose in life that eventually evolves into resolution as each one of them faces ultimate tests of courage.

Although Midnight Horizon is strongly focused on the Jedi (surprisingly leaving the villain point of view aside), what makes half of this novel so enjoyable is Crash and her team of bodyguards. Her overly-caffed and punchy sense of humor is immensely funny; however, Crash’s vulnerable side is what makes this new character so compelling. Not only that, but Older’s research on diplomatic protection work for Crash and her team (heavily influenced by writer Shawn Taylor) really drives the action-oriented side of Midnight Horizon in an organized fashion—never feeling out of place and perfectly marrying with the beautiful details that Older put into describing the neon-lit streets of Coronet City.

Daniel José Older’s latest YA novel not only was a triumph in terms of compelling and entertaining storytelling but also gave readers and fans a level of inclusivity and diversity that just feels natural and never forced. From Lula and Zeen’s unspoken love to Kantam’s beautiful relationship outside the Jedi Order to even Crash’s romantically complicated work dynamics with one of her clients—the author put all these gorgeous characters front and center of the tale in a way that celebrates and rightfully represents the LGBTQIA+ community within our beloved galaxy far, far away.

Midnight Horizon is an incredibly fun and emotional story that continues to prove that The High Republic is without a doubt one of the best eras of all Star Wars storytelling. If you are still sobbing from reading The Fallen Star, then this novel will definitely reinvigorate your spirit while still hitting you hard emotionally. Have you picked up Midnight Horizon yet? If not, what are you waiting for? Make sure to pick up your copy now and let us know about your favorite moments on our social media outlets.