Written by Simon Spurrier
Pencils by Andrea Broccardo
Inks by Marc Deering & Scott Hanna
Colors by Chris O’Halloran
Letters by Joe Caramanga
Cover Artist Ashley Witter

The start of the Dr Aphra “Unspeakable Rebel Superweapon” arc saw some very strong writing and did a good job of connecting Aphra’s back story and the current timeline. It also suggested that Aphra might be increasing in complexity as a character and played nicely with the relationship with Tolvan. This issue sees part IV of the arc so the story should be
fully in driving gear as we open today’s book. Time to dip in.

Spoilers ahead

The problem I had with this issue is that it started to unravel a lot of the things that got me excited for this arc at the beginning. Then we got complex engagement and depth from Aphra, whereas this issue sees a noticeable reversion to a more basic lovable rogue who plays both sides. That’s fine as it accords with the stereotype of the character, but I was personally enjoying the background of the character playing off against moral conundrums in the here and now. There is less of that this issue as she plays on Tolvan’s affections before reverting to type.

The other thing that is bothering me about this story is that I’m not so sure that the Rebel Alliance would have been keen to employ the Farkiller in the way suggested (see Rogue One). Leaving that long-standing reservation aside however, there are interesting points in the plot. The shutdown of Vader and the suggested ambitions of Pitina Voor suggest that this issue may be a lull in a pretty strong arc. Certainly the layup for next issue is enough to sustain interest for what is coming down the tracks.

Final thoughts

If bands refer to that difficult third album, maybe this is that difficult fourth issue in what has been a decent arc. There is enough here to keep me returning to the next issue with some anticipation, but the transfer from a different type of personal Aphra story to a more typical doublecross adventure tale is somewhat of a disappointment. That said, we get strong art from Broccardo and team, and a decent set up. Solid if not spectacular this issue.

7.1/10