Converge on the Latest High Republic Book

Zoraida Córdova makes her High Republic debut with Convergence, the first adult novel release in the first wave for Phase II: Quest of the Jedi. Convergence centers on Jedi Knight Gella Nattai as she finds herself in efforts to end the conflict between Eiram and E'ronoh, also called the Forever War, that has gone on for so long neither side remembers why it started. Due to her previous mission not going as planned, Gella is tasked with bringing Eiram supplies which she feels is punishment by the Order. What is supposed to be a simple mission turns complex as forces lurk in the shadows to ensure the conflict between the two worlds persist while the ruling Prince, Phan-tu Zenn, and Princess, Xiri A'lbaran, of these worlds become closer when the Princess Xiri of E'ronoh unexpectedly crashes on Eiram and is saved by the Prince Phan-tu. Negotiations between Xiri and Phan-tu illuminate a path forward that they hope will bring an end to the conflict: marriage.

Convergence is very much a character-focused novel, unlike the Phase I novels that centered around a major devastating event, which is a refreshing change of pace that establishes a more intimate tone going into Phase II. Córdova provides adequate depth and variety for the main characters, making them memorable and allowing for connections to be formed between the character and the reader. In addition to great characterization, Córdova's descriptions of E'ronoh and Eiram, two worlds never-before seen but were mentioned in Phase I, vividly painted worlds that aren't as different as it would seem and supports highlighting the frivolous nature of their battle against each other.

Gella, one of the main characters, is struggling to find her place in the Force and work with others to meet a common goal, and overall I enjoyed her character as well as her journey throughout the novel which comes together through her interactions with Axel Greylark, the Chancellor's son. Gella and Axel, despite their differing experiences, share the struggle with coming to terms with personal failures of the past which draws them together despite a shocking truth that comes to light. Needless to say I am looking forward to Gella's story unfolding, and Axel is an intriguing character - someone I am excited to see in Cataclysm. To most of the galaxy, Axel is the Chancellor Greylark's son, but what most don't know is he has a habit of gambling away credits as if they grow on trees and owes more credits than he's worth. I enjoyed how in the beginning we see Axel at his worst - gambling more than he knows he should and drinking to forget - and struggling with the stark difference in how he really is, how the holos portray him, and what the galaxy thinks of him. Axel's arc throughout Convergence is among the best the novel has to offer and is an emotional journey.

The audiobook is narrated by Marc Thompson, who is no stranger to narrating Star Wars projects, and he delivers a fantastic performance - notably his interpretation of Axel Greylark was a joy to listen to.

Final Thoughts: Convergence by Zoraida Córdova is a near flawless start for the adult novels of Phase II, filled with intriguing characters and promise for stories to come. As I mentioned previously, Convergence is interconnected with other releases of Phase II so far but it is easily feasible to read Convergence without having read the others. With the start of Phase II, we now have yet another entry to the Star Wars universe for new readers to enjoy and begin their adventure in a galaxy far, far away.

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