Your Guide to the Best Books in the Fall of the Jedi Era

Journey back to a time of great turmoil and uncertainty, where the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance.

As the fall of the Jedi Order looms, a new darkness threatens to consume all that is good. But fear not, for in the pages of these books and comics, you'll find stories of hope, bravery, and the power of the Force that will reignite your love for the Star Wars universe."

Are you ready to discover the best Star Wars tales set during the Fall of the Jedi Era? Then buckle up and let's embark on this epic journey through the pages of the Galaxy's greatest books and comics!

What is the Fall of the Jedi Era?

The Fall of the Jedi era is a tumultuous period in the Star Wars universe that spans several years leading up to the events of the original trilogy. This era saw the rise of the Sith, the Clone Wars, and the eventual destruction of the Jedi Order.

The era begins with the conflict between Naboo and the Galactic Trade Federation and the subsequent election of Chancellor Palpatine. During this time, the Jedi Order discovers Anakin Skywalker, the prophesied "Chosen One," who becomes a key player in the Jedi Order’s efforts in the Clone Wars. As the war drags on, the Jedi begin to lose ground, and their numbers are steadily diminishing.

Ultimately, the era culminates during the events of Revenge of the Sith, which see the fall of the Jedi Order and the Galactic Republic and the rise of the Galactic Empire. Characters such as Darth Sidious, Count Dooku, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker, Yoda, Ahsoka Tano, and Padmé Amidala are prevalent during this period.

Best Overall Book

Master & Apprentice

by Claudia Gray

Random House Worlds

Master and Apprentice is a captivating novel written by Claudia Gray that delves deep into the complex relationship between Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and his Padawan apprentice, Obi-Wan Kenobi, set prior to the events of Star Wars: Episode I: The Phantom Menace.

In this thrilling tale, readers are taken on a journey through the galaxy as the duo is dispatched to the planet Pijal to oversee the coronation of the new queen. However, a mysterious threat threatens the whole process. Along the way, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan must confront their own personal demons and their strained relationship, which threatens to tear them apart.

Master & Apprentice is an engaging book that offers insight into the complex relationship between Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan while also delving into the larger political and social issues that plague the Republic. Gray's writing is rich and immersive, and the story is packed with action, intrigue, and emotion.

Best Overall Comic

Darth Maul: Son of Dathomir

by Jeremy Barlow

Dark Horse Comics

The comic series Darth Maul: Son of Dathomir follows the fallen Sith Lord as he seeks revenge against his former master, Darth Sidious. We follow Maul as he tries to establish his own power within the Sith order while still falling firmly into the shadow of his former master.

The story is set during the events of the Clone Wars and explores the complex relationships between the Sith and their allies, as well as their enemies in the Republic and the Jedi Order.

Darth Maul: Son of Dathomir is a gripping and visually stunning comic series that offers a unique perspective on the events of the Clone Wars. The story is packed with action, suspense, and drama, and Barlow's writing is sharp and engaging. The artwork by artist Juan Frigeri is also exceptional, with vivid and dynamic illustrations that bring the story to life.

Runner Up:

Age of Republic series

by Jody Houser

Marvel Comics

While Darth Maul takes the cake here, we would be remiss not to mention the Age of Republic series by Jody Houser. The series explores the lives and motivations of some of the most iconic characters from the Star Wars universe, including Obi-Wan Kenobi, Darth Maul, Count Dooku, and Qui-Gon Jinn.

The Age of Republic is a cohesive, thought-provoking comics series that offers insight into the characters' pasts and sheds light on their motivations and struggles. Houser's writing is intelligent and nuanced, and the artwork by various artists is stunning and visually striking.

Best Adult Novel

Dooku: Jedi Lost

by Cavan Scott

Random House Worlds

Dooku: Jedi Lost is an audio drama that explores the backstory of Count Dooku, one of the most enigmatic and complex characters from the Star Wars universe. The story follows Dooku from his roots as he rises through the ranks of the Jedi Order, becomes disillusioned with their teachings, and ultimately joins the dark side of the Force.

Dooku: Jedi Lost is a deeply immersive story that offers a fresh perspective on the events of the Fall of the Jedi era. Scott's writing is intelligent and engaging, and the story is packed with action, drama, and intrigue.

Best Young Adult Novel

Queen’s Peril

by E.K. Johnston

Disney-Lucasfilm Press

Queen’s Peril, the first book in the "Queen" Trilogy by E.K. Johnston, follows Padmé Amidala as she rises to power as the youngest elected queen of Naboo and navigates the complex political landscape of the Republic. It also dives into the complex workings of Naboo’s political landscape.

Queen's Peril is an outstanding novel that offers insight into the character of Padmé Amidala and her journey from a young and inexperienced leader to a powerful and influential senator. Johnston's writing is descriptive and immersive, and the story is packed with political intrigue, action, and emotion.

Notable Mentions

Dark Disciple

by Christie Golden

Random House Worlds

Dark Disciple, by Christie Golden, explores the story of Asajj Ventress, a former Sith apprentice, and her unlikely alliance with the Jedi Council to take down Count Dooku. The book is filled with action, emotion, and suspense and offers a fresh perspective on the events of the Clone Wars.

Obi-Wan & Anakin (2016)

by Charles Soule & Marco Checchetto

Marvel Comics

Obi-Wan & Anakin (2016) by Charles Soule & Marco Checchetto is a notable comic that explores the relationship between Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker during the early years of the Clone Wars. The comic series is packed with action, drama, and stunning artwork, and offers a unique perspective on the characters' pasts and their struggles with the dark side of the Force.