The High Republic: Trail of Shadows #3 - Comic Review

After teaming up during the last issue of Trail of Shadows, Jedi Master Emerick Caphtor and private investigator Sian Holt continue their efforts at cracking the mysterious murder case of Loden Greatstorm—leading them to yet another attempt at Jedi lives as they arrive at Starlight Beacon to gather some information about the events coming straight out of The High Republic #11. Meanwhile, The Eye Marchion Ro is trying to find out who has potentially betrayed the Nihil, trying to sell their ultimate weapon of destruction on the black market that could bring down the Jedi Order.

The High Republic: Trail of Shadows #3 is yet another intriguingly delightful comic issue, with writer Daniel José Older seemingly connecting different storylines within this mini series, from the main The High Republic run and even from his more lighthearted series IDW’s The High Republic Adventures. Although in this third issue the mystery case doesn’t move forward as much as you would expect—the character development of the protagonists and teasers about the oh-so popular complicated relationship between Stellan Gios and Avar Kriss (Older had a lot of fun with this one) are just as equally fascinating as the potential fall of the Jedi Order. However, Stellan and Avar’s tensions do not take anything away from Caphtor and Holt, the newly paired partners quickly establishing a very transparent work relationship. Will their connection bloom romantically over the next two comic issues?

The art for The High Republic: Trail of Shadows #3 continues to deliver the same visual “noir” look with artist David Wachter, colorist Giada Marchisio and Ian Herring, and letterer VC’s Joe Sabino. From the dim spotlights of Vaba Blanks Midnight Den to the hologram blue-lit scenes within the Nihil Basecamp, each panel perfectly matches the tone of the story and almost feels like you are watching a crime show on an old CRT TV. What makes this issue standout is without a doubt Wachter’s emotionally driven character facial expressions, from displaying Keeve Trennis’ despair in the aftermath of her undercover mission to Sian and Emerick’s ever growing mutual personal interest. And let’s not forget the gorgeous covers by artist David López, Gerald Parel, and Annie Wu! The main cover by López portrays Sian Holt on stage about to perform a jazzy song in front of seat patrons Emerick Caphtor (looking pleasantly surprised) and Stellan Gios—although we only get to see Holt on the piano inside the comic … perhaps something we’ll get to see in the upcoming issues? The variant covers by Parel and Wu are just as equally stunning, both portraying the main characters with the same level of crime drama vibe as the main cover.

The High Republic: Trail of Shadows #3 almost takes a break from the mysterious Jedi murder case, but delivers spicy new and old character dynamics that High Republic fans crave for. Make sure to put on your best detective outfit and head over to your favorite comic book store to pick up this issue today!