Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Writer: Brian Wood
Artist: Carlos D’Anda
Release Date: 9th July 2014

Things are getting desperate for the Rebel Alliance. Princess Leia’s attempts to find a home base for the Rebels were crushed by a traitor in issue 18 and now the search goes on. This issue sees her, Han, Luke, Chewie and Wedge Antillles scouring the galaxy’s Outer Rim but with the Empire suspiciously close on their heels.

This issue keeps the Princess in the spotlight, not as a hand to be married off to whoever will harbour the rebels this time, but as a gutsy leader and warrior, struggling with the loss of her friends, family and home planet. The heart-to-hearts she has with Luke on these subjects are written well, and we are allowed a glimpse of the pain these young kindred spirits share, away from X-Wings and gunfights.

A new character, Seren Song, has been introduced too. Apart from having a very Dr Who-ish name, she seems a damaged and interesting personality, I look forward to seeing how she is developed.

On a nostalgic note, a droid very closely resembling the legendary IG-88 makes an appearance. Having been on the bridge of Vader’s Star Destroyer in Empire Strikes Back with Boba Fett and the other bounty hunter “scum”, this droid must be badass. If he is the killer in question, I hope to see more of him!

As this is a new arc within the series, si don’t be afraid to dip in if you haven’t followed the series. Issue 19 is a good read with a pacey story and the right mix of new ideas and nostalgia, emotional struggles and humour. I recommend it.

Rating: 3/5.

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The writer of this piece was: Lewis “Daft Vader” Campbell
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