The Rebel Alliance turns its attention to the shattered planet of Jedha! Once the site of great significance to the Jedi, Jedha was left in ruins when the Death Star annihilated the Holy City there. Now, new series writer Kieron Gillen joins artist Salvador Larroca to bring Luke, Leia, Han, and the rest to the remains of the tragic victim of the Empire’s fury!

Writer Kieron Gillen takes over Star Wars bringing us an issue that feels like the natural successor to Rogue One and some of the questions lingering from that film. Jedha was in ruins from the Imperial attack and Saw Gerrera dead. What remained of the world? What of the pocket of resistance? Those questions are answered here as Luke, Leia, Han, and Chewie head to the world to make contact with what remains.

The action is fierce and pacing fast as we’re given little time to breathe in what feels like a fantastic and smart follow up to the recent film and in doing so adds to canon as opposed to trying to shoehorn something in. That’s something that the rebooted Star Wars comics have excelled in and Gillen seems to be continuing that quality writing and work.

While I clearly enjoyed the issue I have to wonder how someone new might react as the impact of the issue does rely on continuity and what’s come before. The destruction of the world, who is met, and the final panel all have an impact mainly due to a film. While new readers may enjoy it, the story is one that feels like the most enjoyment will be garnered by the die hard fans and those casually picking it up might feel as if they are missing key pieces of the puzzle.

The art by Larroca is solid as I’d expect from any Star Wars comic Marvel produces. Their releases have had a consistent style about them that is fantastic to look at. You know what you’re going to get and this is no exception. While a few panels it’s a little unclear what’s going on, that is slightly intended due to the situation the characters are in.

The comic kick starts a new creative team and dives into Star Wars lore in a way that has me excited to see what comes next. It stands to answer some questions and also layer on more history in a world that’s rich with excitement.

Story: Kieron Gillen Art: Salvador Larroca Cover Art: David Marquez
Story: 8.05 Art: 8.15 Overall: 8.10 Recommendation: Buy

Marvel provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review