Star Wars fans and casual viewers alike have come to learn about the authoritarian rise of the Galactic Empire from movies and TV shows. But from the shadows was the slow growth of the Rebellion, which will one day destroy the Empire’s authoritarian rule. From shows like Obi-Wan Kenobi, Andor, and Rogue One, it seemed like enough was said about the events leading up to A New Hope. However, as book lovers know, words can expand stories in a way that movies cannot. Books such as Star Wars: Light of the Jedi, and Star Wars: Dark Disciple, expand the Star Wars lore with new, unique tales. A new upcoming book trilogy takes on familiar perspectives as readers go to a time of terror and distrust in Alexander Freed’s Star Wars: The Mask of Fear.
Star Wars: The Mask of Fear by Alexander Freed
Freed’s take on the ever-expanding Star Wars universe takes readers back further past Andor, exploring how the Rebellion began. In the early days of Emperor Palpatine’s rule, three individuals began to doubt and despise how things came to be.
With the Jedi Order destroyed, the Republic Era ended as the Imperial Era came in with a frightening tight grip on the galaxy. Is there hope to be found in this oppressing government? From three different points of view, Mon Mothma, Saw Gerrera, and Bail Organa, this book will follow how these important figures of the Rebellion each found their way into sparking the Rebel Alliance. What made them choose to fight, and what will they fight for in this tense behind-the-scenes towards the fruition of the galaxy’s liberation? The book releases on February 25, 2025.
Connection to Andor
Is the book canon to Andor? The characters in the book are the same as in Andor, so there has to be a connection, right? Or would it be a waste of time to read a book that’s not canon? According to Freed himself in an article from Gizmodo:
“It’s a chance to write a political thriller and spy drama and sweeping historical epic all at once, as well as spotlight Mon Mothma–a character I’ve been passionate about for ages. I can only hope the end result does justice to the grand themes of the prequel films, and manages a similar blend of timelessness and relevance.”
Though not stated — in canon or otherwise —The Mask of Fear is a must-read for its intrigue and secrecy. Readers will root for the characters as they hide their intentions from the Empire’s officers and devoted followers. The book will give readers a better understanding of the bravery it took for Mon Mothma, Saw Gerrera, and Bail Organa to conspire against the Empire’s wrath. Their wish for a better tomorrow fuels them to start planning a rebellion.
With a long wait until the book’s release, it’s best to rewatch Andor (the best Star Wars has brought to viewers) and read Freed’s other Star Wars trilogy, Star Wars: Alphabet Squadron. This one is after the original movie trilogy about the veterans from the Rebellion adapting as New Republic pilots!
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