New Star Wars trilogy set right after prequels officially announced

The Star Wars universe continues to expand thanks to an upcoming book trilogy.

Set after the events of the Star Wars prequels, these three stories will delve deeper into the birth of the resistance.

Given the success of Andor, it’s unsurprising that the fans are eager to learn more about this spy noir type narrative.

The way in which the story unfolded felt so fresh when compared with The Acolyte because it had less to do with the Force.

As much as we like space wizards, we also enjoy a change in direction sometimes.

Refresh your memories with the Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith trailer

Reign of the Empire intends to give fans what they want: a closer look at the political landscape that was shaping the resistance's actions.

The front cover of the first instalment – The Mask of Fear – doesn’t give much away.

However, while it guards its secrets well, we can surmise that familiar characters will play important roles throughout the story.

As well as featuring returning faces, such as Mon Mothma, there’ll also be new, original characters joining the fight against Palpatine.

“Before the Rebellion, the Empire reigned [...] With one speech, and thunderous applause, Chancellor Palpatine brought the era of the Republic crashing down.

“During that terrifying first year of tyranny, Mon Mothma, Saw Gerrera, and Bail Organa face the encroaching darkness. One day, they will be three architects of the Rebel Alliance,” reads the blurb.

The first book will be written by Alexander Freed, best known for the Alphabet Squadron series, while the second and third novels will be written by the equally talented Rebecca Roanhorse, and Fran Wilde.

I am very pleased to reveal REIGN OF THE EMPIRE, a new trilogy of Star Wars novels set throughout the rise of resistance against the Imperial regime... starting with an Alexander Freed political thriller set in the first year after Revenge of the Sith.https://t.co/TrrZmAVJj9

— James Whitbrook (@Jwhitbrook) July 29, 2024

In an exclusive statement to io9, Freed spoke of their excitement at being a part of this new chapter in the Star Wars universe.

“I’m enormously excited to be a part of this project and explore an era of Star Wars especially rich with the nuanced stories of ‘ordinary’ citizens,” they said.

“It’s a chance to write a political thriller and spy drama and sweeping historical epic all at once.”

Pre-orders for the first book are already open; however, The Mask of Fear won’t be released until February 2025.

As for the other two instalments, they’re scheduled for release in 2026 and 2027.