First Post-Rise of Skywalker Star Wars Novel Revealed

Star Wars fans eager to dive into the universe beyond "The Rise of Skywalker" have something exciting to look forward to, and it's not from Shawn Levy just yet. While anticipation builds for Levy's "Star Wars: Starfighter," fans can soon explore the aftermath of the 2019 film through a new young adult novel titled "Star Wars: The Last Order." Announced on publisher Penguin Random House's website, this novel promises to delve deeper into the stories of John Boyega's beloved hero, Finn, and Naomi Ackie's resistance ally, Jannah, characters introduced in "The Rise of Skywalker."

Penned by Kwame Mbalia, "Star Wars: The Last Order" is set to captivate readers with its gripping narrative. According to the official synopsis, the story unfolds after the events of "The Rise of Skywalker," where the Resistance rescues a ship full of kidnapped young passengers from the First Order. As Finn and Jannah embark on a mission to find the responsible First Order officer and prevent further harm to children, they must confront their own tumultuous pasts as former stormtroopers of the oppressive regime.

This novel marks the first project to explore the Star Wars universe post-"Rise of Skywalker," paving the way for future narratives. Despite not being the first planned project to delve into this timeline, it sets the stage for what's to come, including Shawn Levy's upcoming film. In a February interview with Deadline, Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy shed light on the timeline shift, stating, "It's all post-[the first] nine. Shawn's is a standalone Star Wars story that'll take place post-nine, maybe five or six years out." The enthusiasm for Levy's project remains high, with writer Jonathan Tropper expressing optimism to Screen Rant last month, "I hope it's on the way sooner than you think." Just days later, the release date for the film was revealed at Star Wars Celebration Japan, confirming Ryan Gosling as the star, set for a premiere on May 28, 2027.

Every Upcoming Star Wars Movie and TV Show

View 23 Images

According to Penguin Random House, "Star Wars: The Last Order" is scheduled for release on October 21, 2025. As for Shawn Levy's "Star Wars: Starfighter," fans will need to wait a bit longer, with its release slated for May 28, 2027. The anticipation for both projects continues to build, promising exciting new chapters in the Star Wars saga.