"First Post-'Rise of Skywalker' Novel Explores New Star Wars Universe"

We’re finally getting a glimpse into the world beyond The Rise of Skywalker, but not through Shawn Levy's lens just yet. While fans eagerly await Levy's Star Wars: Starfighter, they'll have a chance to delve into the Star Wars universe post-2019 film sooner, thanks to the upcoming young adult novel, Star Wars: The Last Order.

The book, announced via Penguin Random House's website, promises a deeper exploration of John Boyega’s beloved character Finn and Naomi Ackie’s resistance ally Jannah, both of whom we met in Rise of Skywalker. The novel, penned by Kwame Mbalia, offers an intriguing plot as described in the official synopsis:

“Following the end of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, the Resistance rescues a ship full of young passengers who had been kidnapped by the First Order. As Finn and Jannah set out to find the First Order officer responsible before he can endanger any more children, the two former stormtroopers must wrestle with their own complicated pasts as soldiers of the oppressive regime.”

In a February interview with Deadline, Lucasfilm boss Kathleen Kennedy discussed how the Star Wars timeline will evolve with this new entry. “It’s all post-[the first] nine,” she said. “Shawn’s is a standalone Star Wars story that'll take place post-nine, maybe five or six years out.” Last month, Jonathan Tropper, the writer on the project, expressed his enthusiasm to Screen Rant, stating, "I hope it's on the way sooner than you think." Days later, the release date for the film was announced at Star Wars Celebration Japan, with Ryan Gosling confirmed to star.

Every Upcoming Star Wars Movie and TV Show

View 23 ImagesAccording to Penguin Random House, Star Wars: The Last Order is set to be released on October 21, 2025. Meanwhile, fans will have to wait a bit longer for Levy’s Star Wars: Starfighter, slated for release on May 28, 2027.