I won’t hide the fact that I love Doctor Aphra—her comics, her character, and the potential she has to appear (well-written) in a Disney Star Wars live-action story. This seventh volume feels like a farewell, at least for now. The dreaded “to be continued” on the final page leaves us with a bittersweet taste, no matter how excellent this chapter has been.
I must admit that the Eternal Spark story arc felt tedious at times, leaving me somewhat disappointed. However, this finale has completely restored my faith in the series and reaffirmed my love for the character.
A Journey with Skywalker
The comic opens with Doctor Aphra and Luke Skywalker on a mission to explore a long-forgotten Jedi temple on a remote, nearly inaccessible planet. The archaeologist needs Luke to help retrieve a particular artifact, but what she doesn’t anticipate is his ongoing struggles with the Force—leading to several intriguing moments throughout the story.
The true charm of this plotline lies in the chemistry between the two characters. The dynamic between Aphra and Luke follows the classic buddy-movie formula reminiscent of Tango & Cash or Lethal Weapon—two wildly different personalities forced to work together despite their lack of mutual affinity.
Beyond this engaging duo, we’re also treated to appearances from well-known characters, including figures from the Star Wars Legends universe. Their inclusion gives the story additional depth, enhancing the narrative’s impact and making it feel more expansive.
Diving into the Dark Droids Arc
This prelude sets the stage perfectly before the story plunges into the darker territory of the Dark Droids event. Of all the Star Wars series participating in this crossover, I believe Doctor Aphra integrates the event’s themes most effectively. The tension and sense of danger in this issue surpass previous installments, delivering powerful and memorable moments.
What makes this volume particularly noteworthy isn’t just its successful incorporation of Dark Droids, but also the emotional weight it brings to the characters. Aphra finds herself pushed to the edge multiple times, and these situations unfold in an organic, gripping way. Her interactions with figures from her past add emotional depth, making her evolution feel natural and impactful.
Aphra has always walked a fine line between self-preservation and vulnerability, but here, we finally see real growth. Beneath her sharp wit and reckless demeanor, we glimpse the heart and emotions that make her such a compelling character—something that truly shines in the final stretch of this volume.
Conclusion
Doctor Aphra 7 delivers a thrilling and emotional conclusion, leaving us desperate for more. Alyssa Wong masterfully crafts an open-ended finale that makes us simultaneously love and resent the uncertainty of what’s to come. Hopefully, the “to be continued” won’t keep us waiting too long, and we’ll soon hear more about Aphra’s next adventure.
This volume has only deepened my love for Aphra’s journey, proving once again that Star Wars stories can thrive beyond the main saga characters. To say I’m eager for more from this universe is an understatement.
As of today, Doctor Aphra remains the best character introduced in the Disney era of Star Wars.