Updated May 23, 2024 to include complete Phase II listing.
iving into Star Wars can be intimidating. For first time viewers, the question of which film to watch first can be daunting, and the subsequent questions of which shows to watch and when can sometimes be too much.
The same goes for the books!
Since the launch of The High Republic, the Star Wars publishing world has been filled with wonderful stories of both hopeful and tragic heroism featuring original characters of this brand new era. Whether you’re a long time High Republic fan or diving in for the first time, we’re here to make your reading process as easy as possible.
Before we outline the most effective reading order for your High Republic journey, let’s answer a few overarching questions.
An Introduction to The High Republic
What is The High Republic?
The High Republic is a publishing initiative of books, comics, and other media projects surrounding an era of the Star Wars universe that takes place roughly 200 years before The Phantom Menace. Every piece of new media in The High Republic is created in coordination with every other new story; this means that events in every book, comic, and more often reference events and characters in others. When referencing The High Republic, you may be describing either the time period or the initiative itself.
When does this all take place?
While the most accurate dates can be found on the Youtini timeline, The High Republic takes place hundreds of years before the Prequel Trilogy. The first books in the initiative take place around 232 BBY, and the second phase of books will take place around 382 BBY.
What is the Phase/Wave Structure?
The High Republic is split up by Phases and Waves. These markers allow the creators to coordinate releases and events across different books and comics.
Phase:
The largest group. There will be 3 Phases to the entire High Republic:
- Light of the Jedi (2021)
- Quest of the Jedi (2022)
- Trials of the Jedi (2023)
Wave:
Each Phase is made up of two to three Waves. Each Wave generally has one adult novel, one young adult novel, and one middle grade novel. These Phases and Waves also include comics, audio dramas, and other materials.
Who are the Story Architects?
The five main creators of The High Republic are Claudia Gray, Justina Ireland, Daniel José Older, Charles Soule, Cavan Scott. These Story Architects were brought together to pitch an idea for the future of Star Wars publishing that eventually became The High Republic years before it was announced. Although other authors and artists have joined the initiative since its beginning, these five are tasked with the overall direction of the project.
What is the Best Reading Order for The High Republic?
The order in which the projects are released will always ensure a proper reading order regardless of medium or age range. If Book A is published earlier than Book B, then it is a general principle to read Book A first in order to avoid spoiling the larger narrative. While we will outline what specific stories you should catch up on below, the rule of thumb will always remain that publishing dates (aside from the occasional delay) will always steer you in the right direction.
How to Use this Guide:
This guide will break down The High Republic by Phase and Wave. Within each wave, we will highlight all of the major releases as well as what material is needed to understand the story to its fullest. Necessary Reading will tell you which stories you need to read to understand the main plot and characters of the project while Recommended Reading will help you understand every ancillary character and plot point.
Now that you have a basic understanding of the format of The High Republic, let’s jump into the stories themselves! While our summaries and guidelines below will help guide your reading journey as accurately as possible, be sure to double check the Youtini Timeline for the most up-to-date order of books, comics, and more as The High Republic continues. And while you're there, feel free to sort by adult novels, young adult novels, middle-grade novels, comics, or any combination to find exactly what you want to read!
The High Republic Phase I: Light of the Jedi
Wave 1
Major Event: The Great Disaster
The High Republic begins as the Legacy Run transport ship bursts apart in the middle of hyperspace travel. The fallout from this tragedy sets the stage for the era as the Jedi race to aid the victims of the disaster while the villainous Nihil begin their assault on the galaxy.
Adult Novel: Light of the Jedi by Charles Soule
Released: January 5th, 2021
Synopsis: It is a golden age. Intrepid hyperspace scouts expand the reach of the Republic to the furthest stars, worlds flourish under the benevolent leadership of the Senate, and peace reigns, enforced by the wisdom and strength of the renowned order of Force users known as the Jedi. With the Jedi at the height of their power, the free citizens of the galaxy are confident in their ability to weather any storm. But even the brightest light can cast a shadow, and some storms defy any preparation.
When a shocking catastrophe in hyperspace tears a ship to pieces, the flurry of shrapnel emerging from the disaster threatens an entire system. No sooner does the call for help go out than the Jedi race to the scene. The scope of the emergence, however, is enough to push even Jedi to their limit. As the sky breaks open and destruction rains down upon the peaceful alliance they helped to build, the Jedi must trust in the Force to see them through a day in which a single mistake could cost billions of lives.
Even as the Jedi battle valiantly against calamity, something truly deadly grows beyond the boundary of the Republic. The hyperspace disaster is far more sinister than the Jedi could ever suspect. A threat hides in the darkness, far from the light of the age, and harbors a secret that could strike fear into even a Jedi's heart.
Major Characters: Avar Kriss, Bell Zettifar, Loden Greatstorm, Marchion Ro, Burryaga Agaburry, Jora Malli, Chancellor Lina Soh
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: N/A
Middle-Grade Novel: A Test of Courage by Justina Ireland
Released: January 5th, 2021
Synopsis: Vernestra Rwoh has just become a Jedi Knight at age fifteen, but her first real assignment feels an awful lot like babysitting. She's been charged with supervising eleven-year old aspiring inventor Avon Starros on a cruiser headed to the dedication of a wondrous new space station called Starlight Beacon.
But soon into their journey, bombs go off aboard the cruiser. While the adult Jedi try to save the ship, Vernestra, Avon, Avon's droid J-6, a Jedi Padawan, and an ambassador's son make it to an escape shuttle, but communications are out and supplies are low. They decide to land on a nearby moon, which offers shelter but not much more. And unbeknownst to them, danger lurks in the forest?
Major Characters: Vernestra Rwoh, Avon Starros, Honesty Weft, Imri Cantaros, J-6
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: Light of the Jedi
Young Adult Novel: Into the Dark by Claudia Gray
Released: February 2nd, 2021
Synopsis: Padawan Reath Silas is being sent from the cosmopolitan galactic capital of Coruscant to the undeveloped frontier—and he couldn’t be less happy about it. He’d rather stay at the Jedi Temple, studying the archives. But when the ship he’s traveling on is knocked out of hyperspace in a galactic-wide disaster, Reath finds himself at the center of the action. The Jedi and their traveling companions find refuge on what appears to be an abandoned space station. But then strange things start happening, leading the Jedi to investigate the truth behind the mysterious station, a truth that could end in tragedy….
Major Characters: Reath Silas, Orla Jareni, Cohmac Vitus, Leox Gyasi, Affie Hollow, Geode, Nan, Dez Rydan, the Drengir
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi
Recommended Reading: N/A
Marvel Comic Series: The High Republic (2021) Vol. 1 by Cavan Scott & Ario Anindito
Released: January 6th, 2021 - May 12th, 2021
Synopsis: Centuries before the Empire and the Skywalker saga, the Jedi are at their height, protecting the galaxy as Republic pioneers push out into new territories. But as the frontier prepares for the dedication of the majestic Starlight Beacon, Padawan Keeve Trennis faces the ultimate choice — will she complete her Jedi trials, or rescue the innocent from disaster? And can she trust her closest ally? Enter a rich and vast world of new Jedi! New worlds! New ships! And new evils to fight — including the terrifying Nihil! This trade paperback collects issues #1-5 of the comic with the same name.
Major Characters: Keeve Trennis, Sskeer, Avar Kriss, Terec, Ceret, the Drengir
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: Light of the Jedi, Into the Dark
IDW Comic Series: The High Republic Adventures (2021) Vol. 1 by Daniel José Older & Harvey Tolibao
Released: February 3rd, 2021 - June 16th, 2021
Synopsis: Two hundred years before the events of the Skywalker Saga, the galaxy is experiencing unparalleled peace–until a new enemy threatens everything the Jedi have built. In the days of the High Republic, the Jedi are at the height of their power. But the emergence of the piratical, anarchic Nihil proves that even the most successful peace is fragile, and the Jedi’s influence is neither as pervasive nor as benevolent as they would believe. Now Lula, Farzala, and Qort, inexperienced Jedi Padawans, must help the inhabitants of Trymant IV in the wake of a Nihil attack. All the while, they’ll face suspicion and outright opposition from a group of subversive citizens who resent and fear the Jedi. Two of those citizens, Zeen and Krix, will have to decide whether to accept the Padawans’ aid or try to save the day on their own. This trade paperback collects issues #1-5 of the comic with the same name.
Major Characters: Lula Talisola, Zeen Mrala, Farzala Tarabal, Qort, Torban Buck, Krix Kamerat
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: Light of the Jedi, Into the Dark
Wave 2
Major Event: The Republic Fair
Chancellor Lina Soh envisions a united Republic full of peace and prosperity, and in order to achieve this, she undergoes a number of Great Works. Chief among these is The Republic Fair on Valo that will bring together all the worlds of the Republic to celebrate the spirit of prosperity and togetherness. However, the festivities are put on hold when the Nihil decide that no fair is complete without a little chaos…
Adult Novel: The Rising Storm by Cavan Scott
Released: June 29th, 2021
Synopsis: In the wake of the Great Disaster and the heroism of the Jedi, the Republic continues to grow, bringing more worlds together under a single unified banner. Led by Chancellor Lina Soh, the spirit of unity extends throughout the galaxy, with the Jedi and newly established Starlight Beacon station at the vanguard.
In celebration, the chancellor plans “The Republic Fair,” a showcase of the possibility and peace of the expanding Republic—a precept the Jedi hope to foster. Stellan Gios, Bell Zettifar, Elzar Mann, and others join the event as ambassadors of harmony. But as the eyes of the galaxy turn toward the Fair, so too does the fury of the Nihil. Their leader, Marchion Ro, is intent on destroying this spirit of unity. His storm descends on the pageantry and celebration, sowing chaos and exacting revenge.
As the Jedi struggle to curb the carnage of the rampaging Nihil, they come face to face with the true fear their enemy plans to unleash across the galaxy. The kind of fear that even the Force cannot shield them from.
Major Characters: Stellan Gios, Bell Zettifar, Elzar Mann, Marchion Ro, Ty Yorrick, Chancellor Lina Soh, Pan Eyta
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi
Recommended Reading: The High Republic Vol. 1, Into the Dark, The High Republic Adventures Vol. 1
Middle-Grade Novel: Race to Crashpoint Tower by Daniel José Older
Released: June 29th, 2021
Synopsis: The Republic Fair is coming! Visitors from all over the galaxy are traveling to the planet Valo for a massive, awe-inspiring festival celebrating the Republic. While his fellow Valons prepare for the fair, Jedi Padawan Ram Jomaram is hiding out in his favorite place: a dingy garage filled with mechanical parts and tools. But when a security alarm goes off on the nearby hilltop nicknamed Crashpoint Peak, he ventures out with his trusty droid V-18 to investigate. There he discovers that someone has knocked out Valo's communications tower—a frightening sign that Valo, and the Republic Fair, are in danger. Sure enough, as Ram races to warn the Jedi, the dreaded Nihil unleash a surprise attack! It's up to Ram to face down the enemy at Crashpoint Tower and send a call for help to the Republic. Luckily, he's about to get some assistance from unexpected new friends…
Major Characters: Ram Jomoram, Lula Talisola, Vernestra Rwoh, Ty Yorrick, Zeen Mrala, the Drengir
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm
Recommended Reading: The High Republic Adventures Vol. 1
Young Adult Novel: Out of the Shadows by Justina Ireland
Released: July 27th, 2021
Synopsis: Sylvestri Yarrow is on a streak of bad luck with no end of sight. She's been doing her best to keep the family cargo business going after her mom's death, but between mounting debt and increasing attacks by the Nihil on unsuspecting ships, Syl is in danger of losing all she has left of her mother. She heads to the galactic capital of Coruscant for help, but gets sidetracked when she's drawn into a squabble between two of the Republic's most powerful families over a patch of space on the frontier. Tangled up in familial politics is the last place Syl wants to be, but the promise of a big payoff is enough to keep her interested…
Meanwhile, Jedi Knight Vernestra Rwoh has been summoned to Coruscant, but with no idea of why or by whom. She and her Padawan Imri Cantaros arrive at the capital along with Jedi Master Cohmac Vitus and his Padawan, Reath Silas—and are asked to assist with the property dispute on the frontier. But why? What is so important about an empty patch of space? The answer will lead Vernestra to a new understanding of her abilities, and take Syl back to the past... and to truths that will finally come out of the shadows.
Major Characters: Sylvestri Yarrow, Vernestra Rwoh, Imri Cantaros, Reath Silas, Xylan Graf, Jordanna Sparkburn
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm, Into the Dark
Recommended Reading: A Test of Courage
Marvel Comic Series: The High Republic Vol. 2 by Cavan Scott, Georges Jeanty, & Ario Anindito
Released: June 30th, 2021 - October 20th, 2021
Synopsis: As the galaxy prepares to celebrate the Republic Fair on Valo, a fierce battle rages in the depths of Wild Space — and the Jedi of Starlight Beacon must join forces with their most feared enemy to face the terror of the unstoppable Drengir horde! And as Avar Kriss and her new allies fight nightmarish creatures on a harsh lava world, young Jedi Keeve Trennis puts everything on the line to save her former master from the darkness — but the scars run deep... Meanwhile, who — or what — is the Great Progenitor? And will the Jedi find that other forces are at work on the Drengir's deathworld? This trade paperback collects issues #6-10 of the comic with the same name.
Major Characters: Keeve Trennis, Avar Kriss, Sskeer, Orla Jareni, Cohmac Vitus, the Drengir
Necessary Reading: The High Republic Vol. 1, Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm
Recommended Reading: Into the Dark
IDW Comic Series: The High Republic Adventures Vol. 2 by Daniel José Older & Harvey Tolibao
Released: July 21st, 2021 - September 1st, 2021
Synopsis: It is here where we find Jedi Padawans Farzala and Qort, who are taking a break from the ongoing battle against the dangerous marauders known as the Nihil. As part of a secret mission, they join an aging Jedi Knight on the starship The Vessel to negotiate a peace treaty with the Hutt crime family. Hey, what could go wrong? As it turns out: literally everything.
Major Characters: Farzala Tarabal, Qort, Leox Gyasi, Affie Hollow, Geode
Necessary Reading: The High Republic Adventures Vol. 1, Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm
Recommended Reading: Into the Dark
Audio Drama: Tempest Runner by Cavan Scott
Released: August 31st, 2021
Synopsis: The Nihil storm has raged through the galaxy, leaving chaos and grief in its wake. Few of its raiders are as vicious as the Tempest Runner Lourna Dee. She stays one step ahead of the Jedi Order at the helm of a vessel named after one of the deadliest monsters in the galaxy: the Lourna Dee. But no one can outrun the defenders of the High Republic forever.
After the defeat of her crew, Lourna falls into the hands of the Jedi–but not before she hides her identity, becoming just another Nihil convict. Her captors fail to understand the beast they have cornered. Just like every fool she’s ever buried, their first mistake was keeping her alive.
Lourna is determined to make underestimating her their last.
Locked onto a Republic correctional ship, she's dragged across the galaxy to repair the very damage she and her fellow Tempest Runners inflicted on it. But as Lourna plans her glorious escape, she makes alliances that grow dangerously close to friendships. Outside the Nihil—separated from her infamous ship, her terrifying arsenal, and her feared name—Lourna must carve her own path. But will it lead to redemption? Or will she emerge as a deadlier threat than ever before?
Major Characters: Lourna Dee, Councilor Wittick, Ola Hest, Tasia, Pan Eyta
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm
Recommended Reading: N/A
IDW Limited Series: The Monster of Temple Peak by Cavan Scott & Rachael Stott
Released: August 11th, 2021 - November 17th, 2021
Synopsis: Ty is a brave yet superstitious monster hunter, traversing the galaxy with KL-03 and her trusty rune-stones fighting the deadliest monsters on any world. After dealing with an escaped Drewen being transported to the Republic Fair, Ty heads to Loreth, where local pioneers have tasked her with taking on the fearsome Gretalax that terrorizes them. She takes the mission but can't shake the feeling that something is amiss with the Force.
Major Characters: Ty Yorrick
Necessary Reading: The Rising Storm
Recommended Reading: N/A
VIZ Manga: The Edge of Balance Vol. 1 by Shima Shinya, Justina Ireland, & Mizuki Sakakibara
Released: September 7th, 2021
Synopsis: In the aftermath of the Great Hyperspace Disaster, young Jedi Knight Lily Tora-Asi is assigned to help displaced civilians relocate to Banchii, a planet in the Inugg system far in the Outer Rim. While balancing the arrival of incoming settlers and teaching the Padawans on their Temple outpost, Lily must also confront an attack by the insidious Drengir and, after the events of the Republic Fair, deal with the growing threat of the Nihil. But the dangers to Lily and her Padawans are much closer than she thinks….
Major Characters: Lily Tora-Asi, Arkoff, the Drengir
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi, Into the Dark The Rising Storm
Recommended Reading: N/A
Wave 3
Major Event: The Fall of Starlight Beacon
Since its inception, the Starlight Beacon has been a symbol of hope and unity throughout the Republic. Every citizen of Lina Soh’s united galaxy can look to the space station as a place of safety and aid, but this pillar of security has also become the biggest target for Marchion Ro’s devious plans. After all…what better way to topple a society than by the destruction of their heart?
Adult Novel: The Fallen Star by Claudia Gray
Released: January 4th, 2022
Synopsis: Time and again, the vicious raiders known as the Nihil have sought to bring the golden age of the High Republic to a fiery end. Time and again, the High Republic has emerged battered and weary, but victorious thanks to its Jedi protectors—and there is no monument to their cause grander than the Starlight Beacon.
Hanging like a jewel in the Outer Rim, the Beacon embodies the High Republic at the apex of its aspirations: a hub of culture and knowledge, a bright torch against the darkness of the unknown, and an extended hand of welcome to the furthest reaches of the galaxy. As survivors and refugees flee the Nihil's attacks, the Beacon and its crew stand ready to shelter and heal.
The grateful Knights and Padawans of the Jedi Order stationed there finally have a chance to recover—from the pain of their injuries and the grief of their losses. But the storm they thought had passed still rages; they are simply caught in its eye. Marchion Ro, the true mastermind of the Nihil, is preparing his most daring attack yet—one designed to snuff out the light of the Jedi.
Major Characters: Elzar Mann, Stellan Gios, Bell Zettifar, Burryaga Agaburry, Orla Jareni, Affie Hollow, Leox Gyasi, Geode
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm
Recommended Reading: Into the Dark, Out of the Shadows, The High Republic comic through Issue 13, The High Republic Adventures through Issue 12
Middle-Grade Novel: Mission to Disaster by Justina Ireland
Released: March 1st, 2022
Synopsis: The Jedi think the dreaded Nihil marauders have been all but defeated. Their leader is on the run and their numbers have dwindled. Jedi Knight Vernestra Rwoh hopes this means she will finally have time to really train her Padawan, Imri Cantaros, but reports of a Nihil attack on Port Haileap soon dash those hopes. For not only have the Nihil attacked the peaceful outpost, they have abducted Vernestra and Imri's friend, Avon Starros. The two Jedi set off for Port Haileap, determined to figure out where the Nihil have taken their friend. Meanwhile, Avon must put her smarts and skills to the ultimate test as she fights for survival among the Nihil — and uncovers a sinister plan. Can Vernestra and Imri find their friend before disaster strikes?
Major Characters: Vernestra Rwoh, Imri Cantaros, Avon Starros, J-6
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm
Recommended Reading: A Test of Courage
Young Adult Novel: Midnight Horizon by Daniel José Older
Released: February 1st, 2022
Synopsis: After a series of staggering losses, the Republic seems to finally have the villainous Nihil marauders on the run, and it looks like there's light at the end of the tunnel. Until word comes of a suspected Nihil attack on the industrial cosmopolitan world of Corellia, right in the Galactic Core.
Sent to investigate are Jedi Masters Cohmac Vitus and Kantam Sy, along with Padawans Reath Silas and Ram Jomaram, all fighting their own private battles after months of unrelenting danger. On Corellia, Reath and Ram encounter a brazen young security specialist named Crash, whose friend was one of the victims of the Nihil attack, and they team up with her to infiltrate Corellia's elite while the Masters pursue more diplomatic avenues. But going undercover with Crash is more dangerous than anyone expected, even as Ram pulls in his friend Zeen to help with an elaborate ruse involving a galactic pop star.
But what they uncover on Corellia turns out to be just one part of a greater plan, one that could lead the Jedi to their most stunning defeat yet….
Major Characters: Reath Silas, Cohmac Vitus, Ram Jomaram, Kantam Sy, Zeen Mrala, Alys “Crash” Ongwa
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm, The Fallen Star, The High Republic Adventures through Issue 13
Recommended Reading: Race to Crashpoint Tower, The High Republic Adventures Annual 1
Marvel Limited Series: Trail of Shadows by Daniel José Older & David Wachter
Released: October 13th, 2021 - February 9th, 2022
Synopsis: A Jedi Master is dead. Another is in a state of complete shock. It's a murder the likes of which the Jedi Order has never seen before. There are no leads. There are no suspects. There is no motive. But Jedi Investigator EMERICK CAPHTOR must solve the case before it's too late. The fate of the Jedi, the Hutts, the Nihil and everyone in the galaxy, hangs by this tangled thread of lies and deceit. Emerick will need to dive into the darkness, testing himself and his Jedi ideals like never before. He'll need help. Luckily, Private Eye SIAN HOLT lives in the dark. Together, they'll follow this trail of shadows wherever it leads. If they can work together, that is.
Major Characters: Emerick Caphtor, Sian Holt
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm
Recommended Reading: The Fallen Star prior to Issue 5
Marvel Limited Series: Eye of the Storm by Charles Soule & Guillermo Sanna
Released: January 12th, 2022 - March 2nd, 2022
Synopsis: Although his desire for power and chaos has been well known throughout the galaxy, Marchion Ro’s history remains a mystery. Where did he come from? What does he want? What sparked his need for vengeance? All these questions have remained unanswered…until now. The final piece of the first Phase of The High Republic.
Major Characters: Marchion Ro
Necessary Reading: Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm, The Fallen Star
Recommended Reading: N/A
The High Republic Phase II: Quest of the Jedi
Wave 1
Major Event: The Eiram-E'ronoh War
Taking a cue from George Lucas himself, the creators behind the High Republic jump back in time for their next set of stories. 150 years before the events of Light of the Jedi,the Republic’s Pathfinder teams and Jedi Knights work to explore and connect the galaxy. It is a time of growth and optimism. But unknown dangers lurk beyond the Republic’s expanding borders.
Much like the cinematic prequels, Phase 2 tells an origin story. In this case, we explore the ancestors — both literal and spiritual — of the Nihil and the secret weapon they wield against the Jedi with such devastating effect.
Young Adult Novel: Path of Deceit by Tessa Gratton & Justina Ireland
Released: October 4th, 2022
Synopsis: The Outer Rim planet Dalna has become the focus of a Jedi investigation into a stolen Force artifact, and Zallah Macri and her Padawan, Kevmo Zink, arrive on the pastoral world to follow up on a possible connection to a Dalnan missionary group called the Path of the Open Hand. Members of the Path believe that the Force must be free and should not be used by anyone, not even the Jedi. One such believer is Marda Ro, a young woman who dreams of leaving Dalna to spread word of the Path throughout the galaxy.
When Marda and Kevmo meet, their connection is instantaneous and electric ― until Marda discovers Kevmo is a Jedi. But Kevmo is so kind and eager to learn more about the Path, that she hopes she can convince him of the rightness of her beliefs. What Marda doesn't realize is that the leader of the Path, a charismatic woman known only as the Mother, has an agenda of her own, and it is one that can never coexist peacefully with the Jedi.
Major Characters: Zallah Macri, KevmoZink, Marda Ro, The Mother
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: N/A
Marvel Comic Series: The High Republic (2022) Vol. 1 by Cavan Scott, Ario Anindito, Andrea Broccardo, Mark Morales, & Frank William
Released: October 12th, 2022 - February 8th, 2023
Synopsis: On the Pilgrim Moon of Jedha, different adherents of the Force have gathered side-by-side for generations. The Convocation of the Force maintains a delicate balance between the various creeds. However, as valuable artifacts disappear, tensions begin to rise. When a stranger arrives demanding a voice for the obscure Path of the Open Hand, open chaos threatens to erupt.
Major Characters: Vildar Mac, Matthea Cathley, Tey Sirrek
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: Path of Deceit
Middle-Grade Novel: Quest for the Hidden City by George Mann
Released: November 1st, 2022
Synopsis: Daring pilots chart new routes through hyperspace, while Pathfinder teams make contact with frontier worlds to invite them to join the Republic. When a Pathfinder team's communications droid is found drifting in space, damaged and bearing a cryptic message, Jedi Knight Silandra Sho and her Padawan, Rooper Nitani, are sent to find the missing team members. Their investigation leads them to the planet Gloam, a ravaged world said to be haunted by mythical monsters. Along the way, they make new friends — and on the Republic’s frontier, you never know when you’ll need a friend.
Major Characters: Silandra Sho, Rooper Nitani, Dass Leffbruk
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: N/A
Adult Novel: Convergence by Zoraida Córdova
Released: November 22nd, 2022
Synopsis: On the close orbiting planets of Eiram and E'ronoh, the growing pains of a galaxy with limited resources but unlimited ambition are felt keenly. Their hatred for each other has fueled half a decade of escalating conflict and now threatens to consume surrounding systems. The last hope for peace emerges when heirs from the two planets' royal families plan to marry.
Before lasting peace can be established, an assassination attempt targeting the couple tilts Eiram and E'ronoh back into all-out war. To save both worlds, Jedi Knight Gella Nattai volunteers to uncover the culprit, while Chancellor Kyong appoints her son, Axel Greylark, to represent the Republic's interests in the investigation.
But Axel's deep distrust of the Jedi sparks against Gella's faith in the Force. She's never met such a puffed-up, privileged party boy, and he's never met a more self-serious, relentless do-gooder. The more they work to untangle the shadowy web of the investigation, the more complicated the conspiracy appears to be. With accusations flying and potential enemies in every shadow, the pair will have to work together to have any hope of bringing the truth to light and saving both worlds.
Major Characters: GellaNattai, Axel Greylark, Xiri A’lbaran, Phan-tu Zenn
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: N/A
Dark Horse Comic Series: The High Republic Adventures (2022) Vol. 1 by Daniel José Older & Toni Bruno
Released: November 30th, 2022 – May 3rd, 2023
Synopsis: Padawan Sav Malagán, who we first encounter as a Master in Phase I, has always wanted to join the Jedi Order, until an encounter with Maz Kanata’s band of pirates makes her reconsider her life’s direction. Once trapped on Maz’s ship, she finds herself on a crash course with destiny while she wonders if she’ll make it back to the Jedi path… or if she’ll even want to.
Major Characters: Sav Malagán, Maz Kanata, Dexter Jettster
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: The High Republic Adventures (2021) Vol. 2
Marvel Limited Series: The Blade by Charles Soule, Marco Castiello, & Jim Charalampidis
Released: December 28th, 2022 – March 29th, 2023
Synopsis: Porter Engle wasn’t always the chef for the Jedi Temple on Elphrona. With his fellow Jedi Knight Barash, Engle arrives on The Boneworld to help resolve a crisis. However, the situation is more complicated they suspect. Its resolution casts a long shadow, one that will shape the legend of one of the Order’s most skilled lightsaber duelists for centuries to come.
Major Characters: Porter Engle, Barash Silvain, Abediah Viess
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: Light of the Jedi, The Rising Storm
Audio Drama: The Battle of Jedha by George Mann
Released: January 3rd, 2023
Synopsis: After the Republic, with the help of the Jedi, persuades the planets Eiram and E’ronoh to negotiate an end to their long war, a peace summit convenes on the Pilgrim Moon of Jedha. However, not everyone wants to see peace between the two worlds .A brazen attack kills mediator Tilson Graf, tensions erupt into open combat. Simultaneously struggling to restore peace in Jedha, save the summit, and determine who instigated the attack, the Jedi expose a malign force with a more ambitious plan than anyone expected.
Major Characters: Creighton Sun, Aida Forte, Silandra Sho, Marda Ro, Keth Cerepath
Necessary Reading: Convergence, Path of Deceit
Recommended Reading: Quest for the Hidden City
Dark Horse Limited Series: The Nameless Terror by George Mann, Eduardo Mello, & Ornella Savarse
Released: February 22nd, 2023 – May 27th, 2023
Synopsis: A Republic pathfinder team and a group of Jedi on a routine mission to the planet Dalna find themselves stranded and cut off from help. Cornered by an unexpected enemy and hunted by a mysterious predator, their escape is far from certain. Who are these adversaries, and what is this ominous presence?
Major Characters: Rok Buran, Sula Badani, Coron Solstus. Xinith Tarl
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: Path of Deceit, Monster of Temple Peak
Wave 2
Major Event: The Night of Sorrow
With Jedha in chaos and the Path of the Open Hand's presence too suspicious to be a coincidence, the Jedi work to keep the violence from spreading. As the Path's leader prepares for her next step, the walls begin to close in. However, the Path have a nasty surprise in store for their pursuers. Securing peace and brining the Path's leaders to justice will test the Jedi Order like never before.
Marvel Comic Series: The High Republic (2022) Vol. 2 by Cavan Scott, Ario Anindito, Mark Morales, & Frank William
Released: March 8th, 2023 – May 24th, 2023
Synopsis: Jedi Master Vildar Mac, Padawan Matthea Cathley, and former Guardian of the Whills Tey Sirrek try to restore peace on Jedha as battle rages across the Pilgrim Moon. Under the cover the chaos provides, however, mysterious raiders and thieves scour the city hunting for select Force artifacts.
Major Characters: Vildar Mac, Matthea Cathley, Tey Sirrek, Oliviah Zeveron, Leebon
Necessary Reading: The High Republic (2022) Vol. 1, The Battle of Jedha
Recommended Reading: Convergence
Adult Novel: Cataclysm by Lydia Kang
Released: April 4th, 2023
Synopsis: Despite progress toward peace, violence returns to Eiram and E’ronoh. However, signs emerge that there is more to the conflict between the worlds than first appears. Heirs to the planets’ thrones, Xiri and Phan-tu, along with Jedi Knight Gella Nattai, follow the clues toward Dalna. Exposing the hand pulling the strings in the war set the Jedi and Republic on the road towards a final showdown with an enemy unlike any they’ve encountered. Meanwhile, Axel Greylark, disgraced son of one of the Republic’s co-chancellors, faces a choice between the Path and redemption. Parts of Cataclysm overlap with Path of Vengeance and Quest for Planet X.
Major Characters: Gella Nattai, Axel Greylark, Xiri A’lbaran, Phan-tu Zenn
Necessary Reading: Convergence, The Battle of Jedha
Recommended Reading: Path of Deceit
Young Adult Novel: Path of Vengeance by Cavan Scott
Released May 2nd, 2023
Synopsis: Following the trail of destruction and conspiracy from Jedha, Eiram, and E’ronoh, the Jedi arrive on Dalna, the home world of the Path of the Open Hand. As the Jedi prepare to face the sect in an effort to restore peace to the galaxy, we learn the Mother’s true identity and the roots of her angst with the Jedi. At the same time, the direction she has chosen for the Path threatens to split the movement and even pit family members against each other. Large portions of Path of Vengeance occur at the same time as some of the events in Cataclysm and Quest for Planet X.
Major Characters: Matthea Cathley, Marda Ro, Yana Ro, the Mother, Oliviah Zeveron
Necessary Reading: Path of Deceit, Convergence, Cataclysm, The Battle of Jedha
Recommended Reading: The High Republic (2022) Vol. 1, The High Republic (2022) Vol. 2
Middle-Grade Novel: Quest for Planet X by Tessa Graton
Released: April 4th, 2023
Synopsis: Despite the growing conflict in the Outer Rim, the Graf and San Tekka families sponsor a joint contest to chart new hyperlanes. Dass Leffbruk hopes to use the contest to retrieve a ship that their partner had stolen from him and his father while they were searching for Planet X. Reunited with Jedi Padawan Rooper Nitani and teaming up with Sky Graf, Dass sets off for the mysterious planet. At the same time, Marda Ro and other members of the Path of the Open Hand journey toward the planet as well on a special mission of their own. As the Jedi Order heads for a showdown on Dalna, Rooper’s master calls them for help, and the young trio must face a difficult choice: find Planet X, or answer destiny’s call?
Major Characters: Rooper Nattani, Dass Leffbruk, Sky Graf, Fel Ix, Marda Ro
Necessary Reading: Quest for the Hidden City, Path of Deceit
Recommended Reading: Cataclysm, The Battle of Jedha
VIZ Manga: The Edge of Balance: Precedent by Daniel José Older & Tomio Ogata
Released: May 23rd,2023
Synopsis: As Nihil raiders pillage the Jedi Temple on Banchii, they discover a droid that tells the story of the Battle of Dalna from the perspective of Wookiee Jedi Master Arkoff. During the fight, then-Padawan Arkoff and his Master, Ravna fight off hordes of Path members. They momentarily team up with Jedi Knight Azlin Rell, but after they get separated, Rell has a terrifying encounter as Arkoff senses a disturbance in the Force. The encounter leaves Rell in a sanatorium, but perhaps someday his experience will prove useful.
Major Characters: Arkoff, Azlin Rell, Creighton Sun, Vol Garat
Necessary Reading: Cataclysm, Path of Vengeance
Recommended Reading: The Edge of Balance Vol. 1, The Edge of Balance Vol. 2
Dark Horse One-Shot Comic: Quest of the Jedi by Claudia Gray
Released: April 26th, 2023
Synopsis: In a flashback to a time even earlier than the High Republic Era, Jedi Master Barnabas Vim and his Padawan Vix Fonnick visit the planet Angcord searching for Force artifacts. There, they discover the Echo Stone, which amplifies individuals’ connection to the Force… but at a cost. To prevent the stone from fully corrupting the people of Angcord, the two Jedi destroy it and scatter its shards indifferent places across the galaxy.
Major Characters: Barnabas Vim, Vix Fonnick
Necessary Reading: N/A
Recommended Reading: Path of Deceit, Path of Vengeance, The Edge of Balance: Precedent
Dark Horse Comic Series: The High Republic Adventures (2022) Vol. 2 by Daniel José Older, Harvey Tolibao, Toni Bruno, & Michael Atiyeh
Released: May 31st, 2023 – June 28th, 2023
Synopsis: Sav Malagán travels with Maz Kanata’s pirate gang, none of whom know her true identity as a Jedi Padawan. To make matters even more complicated, Sav must infiltrate a notorious rival gang, the Dank Graks, to help her new friends and free Maz as they stumble upon the Battle of Jedha.
Major Characters: Sav Malagán, Maz Kanata, Dexter Jettster
Necessary Reading: The High Republic Adventures (2002) Vol. 1, The Battle of Jedha
Recommended Reading: N/A
