As a long time ‘Star Wars’ Expanded Universe fan, I cannot help but look at the emergence of the new book in the new “canonical” continuity with some sadness, remembering the original “first book after ‘Return of the Jedi,'” the excellent ‘Truce at Bakara’ by Kathy Tyers. However, even I must admit that there is some excitement at the dawn of the new continuity, and writer Chuck Wendig’s story that takes place after the climactic Battle of Ender certainly looks like it will not disappoint. From the explosive cover to the plot details released, claiming that the book will look into the power vacuum in the galaxy after the fall of the Emperor, the story has plenty of fertile ground to cover. And the revelation that the book is the first of a trilogy, which will lead the reader right into ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens,’ makes the story even more appealing.
Look for ‘Star Wars: Aftermath’ to hit bookstores this September, one of 20 new ‘Star Wars’ books set to be released leading up to ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens.’
Here’s what the official ‘Star Wars’ website has to say on the book:
“The second Death Star has been destroyed. Rumors are flying that the Emperor and his enforcer, Darth Vader, are dead. A new government is forming to replace the Empire. But the galaxy is a big place, and the fallout of this cataclysm will affect different worlds in different ways. Does everyone accept the fall of Imperial rule? Has everyone even heard the life-altering news? What rushes in to fill the vacuum the Empire has left? And who will try to stop them? Those are some of the themes we’ll be exploring in Aftermath, and as a lifelong Star Wars fan, just writing those words gives me chills. I can’t wait for our first canon glimpse into the state of the galaxy after the Battle of Endor.
What’s more, Aftermath will be the first book in a trilogy that begins to bridge theStar Wars timeline between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens. There is so much unknown between the Battle of Endor and the events of The Force Awakens, and we’re excited to take our first step into that space.
Obviously I wish I could tell you more about the story, but I can’t just yet. What I can reveal is that you will be introduced to a sweeping new cast of characters, along with a fan favorite from the films. And who knows what other familiar faces will pop up along the way? And once you’ve seen The Force Awakens in movie theaters, you may find that certain names and places in Aftermath have a relevance you never knew–so keep your eyes wide open!”
