This graphic novel collects Star Wars Age of the Republic: Heroes--Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker, Padme Amidala, and the Star Wars Age of the Republic Special.
Qui-Gon Jinn's story, "Balance," he finds himself trying to bring peace between two peoples among a planet. This balance is not the only thing he questions. When he ventures to another planet to seek answers, his loyalty to the Force is tested in an old temple.
Obi-Wan Kenobi's story, "Mission," follows the Jedi Knight as he keeps his promise to Qui-Gon, that he will train Anakin Skywalker to become a Jedi. Still new to the roles of master and apprentice, Anakin always wants more, always feels that the experiences he is receiving are far too easy. After discussing with Yoda, Obi-Wan is wary but takes Anakin on a mission in hopes that many lessons will be learned about being too eager when one is not quite ready, but also seeing how Anakin can prove himself in his abilities.
Anakin Skywalker's story, "The Sacrifice," flashes back to his mother and dips into much of Anakin's anger that eventually leads him to the dark side. The republic needs to destroy a droid foundry that they discovered, but that means there may be casualties. Anakin, tactician that he is, pushes for a way to save anyone aboard the ship. After putting his plan forward, it is shot down by his commanding officer. Of course, Anakin goes and does his own thing anyway. When he finds out the workers on the droid foundry are slaves, he knows he must save them.
Padme Amidala's story, "Bridge," follows Padme as she and her handmaids go on a mission to make peace with the inhabitants of Calbron. She finds an assassination attempt on her life as a greeting and a little less than welcoming leader. Though she finds the actual leader has been injured and may die. She must make peace before she loses this opportunity, as well as root out her assassin.
Age of Republic Special: There are actually two very short comics with this special. The first is "The Weapon," which features Mace Windu as he infiltrates enemy lands. The second is "501 Plus One" which features Jar Jar Binks and Captain Rex. Jar Jar might just be the clumsy hero this battle needs (yikes...).
Although I like the Villains collection more, Age of Republic Heroes is still one of my favorite collections. I love how there is a character article at the end of each issue highlighting the journey that some of these characters have taken since creation, as well as some of their further inspirations and influences to the Star Wars universe. I love the art and cannot wait for the next Heroes/Villains collections to come out!