Jedi Knight Reath Silas leads a diverse team to Kashyyyk to confront a mysterious blight threatening the Wookiee homeworld, while facing old enemies, the return of the Drengir, and the machinations of Nihil scientist Dr. Mkampa. Themes of found family, personal growth, and the enduring power of hope and compassion are woven throughout, as characters seek redemption and closure amid looming galactic threats.

Reader Review Summary

Set during the final phase of the Star Wars: The High Republic publishing initiative, this novel serves as the concluding young adult entry in the series and acts as a direct sequel to 'Into the Dark.' The story centers on Jedi Knight Reath Silas, who leads a diverse team—including Padawan Amadeo Azzazzo, scientist Avon Starros, his former master Cohmac Vitus, Wookiee Jedi Burryaga and Kelnacca, the enigmatic Azlin Rell, and the returning crew of the Vessel (Affie Hollow, Leox Gyasi, and Geode)—to Kashyyyk to investigate and contain a mysterious blight threatening the planet. The narrative weaves together multiple plotlines, including the resurgence of the Drengir, the machinations of Nihil scientist Dr. Mkampa, and the introduction of Sith lore through the Thornseed artifact. The book is characterized by its focus on found family, the emotional and spiritual growth of its characters, and the resolution of long-running story arcs, while also setting up the final adult novel, 'Trials of the Jedi.'

Readers praised the novel for its in-depth character work, particularly the development and closure given to Reath Silas, who transitions from a bookish Padawan to a capable leader. The return of the Vessel crew and the exploration of their dynamics were frequently highlighted as enjoyable, as was the inclusion of Wookiee culture and the setting of Kashyyyk. Many appreciated the way the book tied together threads from previous High Republic entries, provided satisfying moments for fan-favorite characters, and incorporated connections to other parts of Star Wars canon, such as references to 'The Acolyte' and the planet Kenari from 'Andor.' The handling of themes like grief, hope, and the light side of the Force, as well as the emotional impact of certain character moments (notably involving Geode and Nan), were also noted as strengths.

Criticisms focused on the book's pacing, especially in the first half, which some found slow and bogged down by recaps and setup. Several readers felt the novel juggled too many characters and plotlines, resulting in underdeveloped arcs and a lack of emotional depth for some relationships, particularly those involving Reath's connections to other characters like Amadeo and Ram. The antagonist Dr. Mkampa was described as lacking depth and her motivations as unconvincing, while the integration of the Drengir and the blight plotlines was seen as rushed or insufficiently explored. Some readers noted that the frequent shifts in perspective made it difficult to fully engage with the story, and that the book did not resolve all major series-wide questions, leaving much for the final adult novel.

The book has an average reader rating of 4.28 out of 5 from 383 ratings and 53 full reviews, indicating a generally positive reception despite noted flaws. It is positioned as a key transitional entry, providing closure for many young adult characters while leaving larger narrative threads for the series finale. The novel is also recognized for its references to previous High Republic works and broader Star Wars lore, and for its thematic focus on compassion, growth, and the enduring power of hope. 'Into the Light' is scheduled for publication on April 1, 2025, and is classified under genres including Star Wars, Young Adult, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Audiobook, and Space Opera.