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Star Wars Disney Canon Novel
Star Wars: Legacy
Win a free print copy of this book!
3 days and 23:14:36
15 copies available
U.S. only
Set between Episodes VIII and IX, Rey and Leia embark on a quest to repair Rey’s lightsaber and rekindle the legacy of the Jedi.
After barely escaping the First Order on Crait, Rey and the Resistance are struggling to rebuild. Her friends need the last Jedi more than ever, but Rey feels alone and overwhelmed. Jedi tradition is built on masters and apprentices, and Rey’s teacher is gone. Leia Organa tries her best to train Rey in the ways of the Force as Luke did for her so many years ago, but Leia’s knowledge is limited, Rey’s lightsaber is broken, and the specter of Kylo Ren and regrets from the past haunt them both. How can Leia pass the torch when she herself is unsure of the way?
But then, the ancient Jedi texts offer a glimmer of a long-forgotten Jedi temple on Tython that might hold the key to repairing Rey’s saber. Rey leaps at the chance to journey there—and to her surprise, so does Leia.
Rey and Leia’s nascent mentorship is put to the test when they discover the temple on Tython is filled with obscure clues to decipher and arcane trials to complete. As they work to unravel the temple’s mysteries, they encounter a group of refugees living in its shadow, hiding from a First Order officer hot on the trail of two freedom fighters in their midst. With the threat of the First Order looming and the secrets of the temple yet to be unlocked, the newly forged master and apprentice must confront their pasts, reach each other in the present, and decide what it means to carry the legacy of the Jedi into the future.
After barely escaping the First Order on Crait, Rey and the Resistance are struggling to rebuild. Her friends need the last Jedi more than ever, but Rey feels alone and overwhelmed. Jedi tradition is built on masters and apprentices, and Rey’s teacher is gone. Leia Organa tries her best to train Rey in the ways of the Force as Luke did for her so many years ago, but Leia’s knowledge is limited, Rey’s lightsaber is broken, and the specter of Kylo Ren and regrets from the past haunt them both. How can Leia pass the torch when she herself is unsure of the way?
But then, the ancient Jedi texts offer a glimmer of a long-forgotten Jedi temple on Tython that might hold the key to repairing Rey’s saber. Rey leaps at the chance to journey there—and to her surprise, so does Leia.
Rey and Leia’s nascent mentorship is put to the test when they discover the temple on Tython is filled with obscure clues to decipher and arcane trials to complete. As they work to unravel the temple’s mysteries, they encounter a group of refugees living in its shadow, hiding from a First Order officer hot on the trail of two freedom fighters in their midst. With the threat of the First Order looming and the secrets of the temple yet to be unlocked, the newly forged master and apprentice must confront their pasts, reach each other in the present, and decide what it means to carry the legacy of the Jedi into the future.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2026
About the author
Madeleine Roux
46 books4,930 followersNew York Times Bestselling Author of the ASYLUM series, Allison Hewitt Is Trapped, Sadie Walker Is Stranded and the upcoming House of Furies series.
MADELEINE ROUX received her BA in Creative Writing and Acting from Beloit College in 2008. In the spring of 2009, Madeleine completed an Honors Term at Beloit College, proposing, writing and presenting a full-length historical fiction novel. Shortly after, she began the experimental fiction blog Allison Hewitt Is Trapped. Allison Hewitt Is Trapped quickly spread throughout the blogosphere, bringing a unique serial fiction experience to readers.
Born in Minnesota, she now lives and works in Seattle, Washington.
MADELEINE ROUX received her BA in Creative Writing and Acting from Beloit College in 2008. In the spring of 2009, Madeleine completed an Honors Term at Beloit College, proposing, writing and presenting a full-length historical fiction novel. Shortly after, she began the experimental fiction blog Allison Hewitt Is Trapped. Allison Hewitt Is Trapped quickly spread throughout the blogosphere, bringing a unique serial fiction experience to readers.
Born in Minnesota, she now lives and works in Seattle, Washington.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 29, 2026
I was really excited to read this book, and hopeful that it would fill in some gaps in the sequel era and tell a satisfying story. Unfortuantely, this book really did not work on multiple levels. I kept reading hoping it would get better, and unfortunately, it did not.
Let's start with the general story of the book. The main story follows Rey and Leia as they embark on a journey to the planet Tython (as seen in The Mandalorian Season 2, Episode 6 The Tragedy). There, Rey intend to find a Forge to help reform Anakin/Luke's Lightsaber, and Leia hopes to break through to Rey and help impart some wisdom and guidance to her. Meanwhile, a foiled plot to assassinate a First Order officer causes 2 rebels (Ziff Loresta and Gavrin Hyllus to go on the run, while that First Order officer (Major Brilla Wolstenholme) goes on her own vendeetta to hunt down and capture every rebel involved in the plot.
The basic plot had some promise to it. Unfortunately, so much of it is unsatisfying. What Leia and Rey find on Tython does narratively make sense...but the book takes so long to move the story forward. What should have taken roughly 1/3 or less of the book takes up almost all of Leia and Rey's storyline. Once they finally get some answers, the book is pretty much over and the answers it gives, while logical, are unsatisfying to the reader.
The story of Brilla Wolstenholme starts out quite strong. I really enjoyed reading such an arrogant character who was so blinded by her desire to catch the rebels she didn't see the potential consequences of her actions. She by far had the best chapters in the book. However!...Brilla's story also takes several very unsatisfying turns by the end of the book, and her story, rather than feel complete and entertaining, just feels like it ends and doesn't have closure nor make the journey worth it.
There is something to Madeleine Roux's writing style in this book that was also immensely frustrating. She includes so many flashbacks and/or visions, particularly with Rey and Leia's POVs (although it happens with Brilla, Gavrin, and Zeff's POVs too) and they sometimes are as short as a few sentences or as long as a few pages...but the way Roux constantly throws the reader back and forth, with little warning or explanation...was just jarring and made the book that much more difficult to read. Flashbacks and visions can be interestings and entertaining, as can visions, but there is a way to balance them, and this book just didn't do that. It gave me the feeling I had reading Thrawn Alliances whenever "Double Vision" would happen and I just inwardly groaned when it was on the page.
For a positive example within the Star Wars universe, Phasma is a story entirely based around the concept of flashbacks and I think that Delilah S Dawson did a great job crafting that story. So they can be done well, I just didn't care for them here.
Leia has some interesting conversations with *someone* in this book, and those actually did a lot to make her storyline more interesting. I expected it to be a singular conversation, but it turned out to be a few scenes, and those scenes were in fact satisfying.
Rey, in her explorations of the Jedi temple ruins on Tython, does have a scene where she has a conversation with a *different character*. That conversation, and the reveal of who she was talking to, was very well done.
One more positive note, I really like the pastel style of the cover from Sophie Cowdry. It reminds me of Master and Apprentices' cover and is a style I really enjoy!
Speaking of the cover, Kylo Ren is on it...but he is used very little in the book. Don't go in expecting a big Kylo Ren storyline, or a ton of Rey/Ben moments (though there's kind of a few...kind of).
I admit, some elements of this book were not tailor made for me. I'm not as interested in books where characters do a lot of introspection, and this book has a ton of that. I'm not interested in books where the Jedi are exploring Jedi ruins and thinking about the merits and ideas of the force....and this book has a lot of that. I'm also (usually, though there are exceptions) not a fan of books that have such minimal plot and story...and this book's plot is paper thin. I really believe it's can and should have been condensed down into 100-150 pages, and actually focused on telling a fun adventure for the rest of the novel. My storytelling proclivities might color my enjoyment of the book, and other readers who do enjoy the things I listed might therefore love this book. Unfortunately, it just didn't work for me.
This book was a let down, and I wish it wasn't so. There were so many elements here that could have made an entertaining story, but the execution of them just didn't work at all. Die-hard Leia/Rey fans will probably enjoy this novel, and if you're more into explorations of the Force, you might enjoy this novel, but otherwise I just cannot recommend it. 3.5 out of 10. Hopefully the next one will be more entertaining.
Let's start with the general story of the book. The main story follows Rey and Leia as they embark on a journey to the planet Tython (as seen in The Mandalorian Season 2, Episode 6 The Tragedy). There, Rey intend to find a Forge to help reform Anakin/Luke's Lightsaber, and Leia hopes to break through to Rey and help impart some wisdom and guidance to her. Meanwhile, a foiled plot to assassinate a First Order officer causes 2 rebels (Ziff Loresta and Gavrin Hyllus to go on the run, while that First Order officer (Major Brilla Wolstenholme) goes on her own vendeetta to hunt down and capture every rebel involved in the plot.
The basic plot had some promise to it. Unfortunately, so much of it is unsatisfying. What Leia and Rey find on Tython does narratively make sense...but the book takes so long to move the story forward. What should have taken roughly 1/3 or less of the book takes up almost all of Leia and Rey's storyline. Once they finally get some answers, the book is pretty much over and the answers it gives, while logical, are unsatisfying to the reader.
The story of Brilla Wolstenholme starts out quite strong. I really enjoyed reading such an arrogant character who was so blinded by her desire to catch the rebels she didn't see the potential consequences of her actions. She by far had the best chapters in the book. However!...Brilla's story also takes several very unsatisfying turns by the end of the book, and her story, rather than feel complete and entertaining, just feels like it ends and doesn't have closure nor make the journey worth it.
There is something to Madeleine Roux's writing style in this book that was also immensely frustrating. She includes so many flashbacks and/or visions, particularly with Rey and Leia's POVs (although it happens with Brilla, Gavrin, and Zeff's POVs too) and they sometimes are as short as a few sentences or as long as a few pages...but the way Roux constantly throws the reader back and forth, with little warning or explanation...was just jarring and made the book that much more difficult to read. Flashbacks and visions can be interestings and entertaining, as can visions, but there is a way to balance them, and this book just didn't do that. It gave me the feeling I had reading Thrawn Alliances whenever "Double Vision" would happen and I just inwardly groaned when it was on the page.
For a positive example within the Star Wars universe, Phasma is a story entirely based around the concept of flashbacks and I think that Delilah S Dawson did a great job crafting that story. So they can be done well, I just didn't care for them here.
Leia has some interesting conversations with *someone* in this book, and those actually did a lot to make her storyline more interesting. I expected it to be a singular conversation, but it turned out to be a few scenes, and those scenes were in fact satisfying.
Rey, in her explorations of the Jedi temple ruins on Tython, does have a scene where she has a conversation with a *different character*. That conversation, and the reveal of who she was talking to, was very well done.
One more positive note, I really like the pastel style of the cover from Sophie Cowdry. It reminds me of Master and Apprentices' cover and is a style I really enjoy!
Speaking of the cover, Kylo Ren is on it...but he is used very little in the book. Don't go in expecting a big Kylo Ren storyline, or a ton of Rey/Ben moments (though there's kind of a few...kind of).
I admit, some elements of this book were not tailor made for me. I'm not as interested in books where characters do a lot of introspection, and this book has a ton of that. I'm not interested in books where the Jedi are exploring Jedi ruins and thinking about the merits and ideas of the force....and this book has a lot of that. I'm also (usually, though there are exceptions) not a fan of books that have such minimal plot and story...and this book's plot is paper thin. I really believe it's can and should have been condensed down into 100-150 pages, and actually focused on telling a fun adventure for the rest of the novel. My storytelling proclivities might color my enjoyment of the book, and other readers who do enjoy the things I listed might therefore love this book. Unfortunately, it just didn't work for me.
This book was a let down, and I wish it wasn't so. There were so many elements here that could have made an entertaining story, but the execution of them just didn't work at all. Die-hard Leia/Rey fans will probably enjoy this novel, and if you're more into explorations of the Force, you might enjoy this novel, but otherwise I just cannot recommend it. 3.5 out of 10. Hopefully the next one will be more entertaining.
Currently Reading
July 26, 2026I'M SO EXCITED!
Want to Read
October 16, 2025MY GOATS TOGETHER AGAIN LET'S KRIFFING GOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!
July 28, 2026
Reylo 😭😭😭 please an after rise of skywalker rey and Ben solo novel too. Bring Ben Solo back!
Love Rey being like a mother in law to Rey. Loved the training and the inner turmoil. Hope she writes more in the future!
Love Rey being like a mother in law to Rey. Loved the training and the inner turmoil. Hope she writes more in the future!
July 14, 2026
The future of the Jedi is fractured as Rey struggles to find her place in the Order while she attempts to fix Luke Skywalker’s lightsaber and heal the kyber crystal that were damaged during her duel with Kylo Ren, now Supreme Leader of The First Order. Leia Organa, leader of the Resistance takes it upon herself to complete Rey’s Jedi training and finish what her brother could not. Darkness, doubt, and unexpected newcomers threaten to derail the last Jedi on her quest to fix what is broken.
Author Madeleine Roux delivered on the promise of the book by giving us a full story focused on Rey and Leia during this time period. Many times a book is advertised as being something and when it is released, the reality is something else. That is not the case with Legacy. This is a Rey and Leia book. Also, these beloved characters jump from the screen to the page seamlessly and feel like the versions we fell in love with in the movies. You can’t have a Star Wars story without some good old-fashioned imperial villains and Legacy introduces First Order officer Major Brilla Wolstenholme, who narrowly survives an assassination attempts on her life while stationed on Hays Major. She has her own journey separate from our heroes as she looks for those responsible for the attack and what effect her survival has inside the ranks of the First Order and her standing in it.
Of the other new characters, Gav Hyllus has the largest role and his relationship with Rey is a standout. He has a complicated relationship with his family, his friends, and the Jedi in general. Rey’s appearance complicates things, especially when she is revealed to be the hero of the Resistance as Gav is on the run from the First Order.
Legacy is a book about truths and acceptance. Accepting that you cannot do everything alone, that asking for help is a good thing. Accepting yourself despite your inner turmoil. A great addition to Sequel Era stories and fans of Rey and Leia.
Author Madeleine Roux delivered on the promise of the book by giving us a full story focused on Rey and Leia during this time period. Many times a book is advertised as being something and when it is released, the reality is something else. That is not the case with Legacy. This is a Rey and Leia book. Also, these beloved characters jump from the screen to the page seamlessly and feel like the versions we fell in love with in the movies. You can’t have a Star Wars story without some good old-fashioned imperial villains and Legacy introduces First Order officer Major Brilla Wolstenholme, who narrowly survives an assassination attempts on her life while stationed on Hays Major. She has her own journey separate from our heroes as she looks for those responsible for the attack and what effect her survival has inside the ranks of the First Order and her standing in it.
Of the other new characters, Gav Hyllus has the largest role and his relationship with Rey is a standout. He has a complicated relationship with his family, his friends, and the Jedi in general. Rey’s appearance complicates things, especially when she is revealed to be the hero of the Resistance as Gav is on the run from the First Order.
Legacy is a book about truths and acceptance. Accepting that you cannot do everything alone, that asking for help is a good thing. Accepting yourself despite your inner turmoil. A great addition to Sequel Era stories and fans of Rey and Leia.
Read
July 30, 2026Loved it!
I bought this due to the Ben Solo scene. It was a great book and really adds to the Sequels. With that said:
Save #thehuntforbensolo
I bought this due to the Ben Solo scene. It was a great book and really adds to the Sequels. With that said:
Save #thehuntforbensolo
July 29, 2026
I don't think I enjoyed this one quite as much as other people did. Dont get me wrong, I was very excited for this book, and I still enjoyed it, I just didnt love it.
I did love the things that I came here for, I.e. Leia and Rey, their characterisations and interactions. The Jedi history stuff was fun and fascinating. All the main story stuff I really enjoyed.
I think i may have just read too many Star Wars books. They all have the typical b plot about the boring imperial and the communities that need saving. I just felt that this one dragged the pacing down for me a bit. Every time there was almost something interesting plot b would rear its head, and i cared a little less.
Its still a great book, and does exactly what it aims to do. It tells a great story of a very different master and apprentice duo, filling in a very small gap between 8 and 9.
It just suffers from an uninteresting b plot that just felt a bit samey samey for these Star Wars books that I am far too aware that I have read so many of.
I did love the things that I came here for, I.e. Leia and Rey, their characterisations and interactions. The Jedi history stuff was fun and fascinating. All the main story stuff I really enjoyed.
I think i may have just read too many Star Wars books. They all have the typical b plot about the boring imperial and the communities that need saving. I just felt that this one dragged the pacing down for me a bit. Every time there was almost something interesting plot b would rear its head, and i cared a little less.
Its still a great book, and does exactly what it aims to do. It tells a great story of a very different master and apprentice duo, filling in a very small gap between 8 and 9.
It just suffers from an uninteresting b plot that just felt a bit samey samey for these Star Wars books that I am far too aware that I have read so many of.
July 25, 2026
This book is a travesty. Every single thing that should be interesting about it is short changed and truncated with ridiculous shallow nonsense instead of the deep well of Force exploration it should be. The reason, it needed a storyteller who understands the depth of Star Wars like what we saw in The Clone Wars, Rebels or the Ahsoka series. Instead we get the bare minimum.
The other issue with the book is the absolute useless introduction of characters that are so boring and bring nothing to this story. The story needed to be Leia and Rey delving into the mysteries of the Force, that’s it. Instead, half the book is given to a First Order storyline and some resistance fighters that’s pointless. I’ve seldom been more glad when a book was over.
Frustratingly this book reinforces all the mistakes that were made in the Sequels with the Legacy characters. The book may have that title but it does little to polish the tarnishing effect of an ill conceived trilogy that is a blight on the Saga as a whole.
The other issue with the book is the absolute useless introduction of characters that are so boring and bring nothing to this story. The story needed to be Leia and Rey delving into the mysteries of the Force, that’s it. Instead, half the book is given to a First Order storyline and some resistance fighters that’s pointless. I’ve seldom been more glad when a book was over.
Frustratingly this book reinforces all the mistakes that were made in the Sequels with the Legacy characters. The book may have that title but it does little to polish the tarnishing effect of an ill conceived trilogy that is a blight on the Saga as a whole.
July 29, 2026
4.75 stars rounded up. Thanks to Random House Worlds for the review copy!
Full review from my Substack:
This book reminds me why I love Star Wars books so much.
That’s the message I sent to one of the Penguin Random House editors behind Star Wars: Legacy by Madeleine Roux, which arrived this week. The book is set between The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, specifically a little bit after the events of Resistance Reborn by Rebecca Roanhorse. Whereas that book focused on rebuilding the ranks of the Resistance after a crushing defeat at Crait, Legacy slows the story to give us much-needed time with Leia and Rey.
I was cautiously optimistic going into this book. When it was announced last October, my excitement was palpable. Finally, another sequel-era novel, and this time, with Leia and Rey as the main characters. I did eventually temper my expectations because, surely, a Star Wars book wasn’t going to fill in ALL the gaps and answer ALL the questions left after watching The Rise of Skywalker. Understandably, Star Wars is protective of its characters who were created for the screen. Rey has appeared in several books, but I was hesitant to get too excited about the possibility of a book that showcases her inner thoughts and perspectives. Leia has several books largely about her, for which I am utterly grateful. And after my expectations weren't met by Master of Evil and Eyes Like Stars (both are still great stories), I didn’t want to set myself up for disappointment with Legacy.
I should’ve never doubted a Star Wars book’s ability to move me — to give me dialogue and prose that remind me of a core tenet of Star Wars storytelling. No one’s ever really gone. They live on in memories and physical belongings, yes, but also in their words. Those words are written down, preserved in holobooks or recordings, or even just kept safe in someone’s heart and mind. In this galaxy, they live on in the Force. These stories, lessons, and people appear to those who need them most, exactly when they need them.
Through much of Legacy, Rey is tangibly frustrated. I’d also argue she’s angry and afraid, too, as she wages a war within herself. She’s afraid of being afraid, and frustrated over her own anger and fear. She desperately wants to avoid the dark side, but that darkness within her — the feelings of loneliness and pressure to carry on the Jedi legacy — keep bubbling to the surface. All she’s ever been is on her own, but she doesn’t know what to do or who to trust with her darkest secrets. She is, quite literally, the last Jedi, and the pressure of rebuilding a millennia-old religion is too much to bear alone.
Leia sees herself in Rey. Legacy cements just how similar the two women are. Leia understands the loneliness and the pressure to lead and persevere despite the odds. Through Leia, we experience the exhaustion of a life lived in service of others — a life devoted to fighting back the dark and sacrificing for a chance at freedom. Her choices weigh heavily on her, especially those that she believes led her son to the dark side. Leia wants to be…something for Rey. Throughout the book, she struggles to figure out what the young Jedi needs — a mother, a mentor, a teacher? All she knows is that she’s not a Jedi and she’s no Luke.
It’s in these moments where Leia and Rey butt heads and tiptoe around each other that the story really shines. It’s apparent how much they care for one another in The Rise of Skywalker, and Legacy shows all the rough, intense, quiet, and emotional moments it took to form that relationship. Along the way, both Rey and Leia learn how to live with their darkness without fighting it or letting it rule them.
Some small gaps from the movie get filled, too — how the broken Skywalker lightsaber got fixed and how Rey learned Force healing powers. I’d also argue that Legacy presents the best reasoning for Rey taking on the Skywalker name.
While Rey and Leia are the heart of this story, the book introduces a cast of new characters that add depth to the high stakes faced by both the Resistance and the entire galaxy. There are rebels on the run and in hiding as refugees after a botched assassination attempt on a First Order major. I’m usually hesitant to get too attached to new characters in books, mainly because I don’t want them to take away from precious time with our heroes. But Major Brilla Wolstenholme was one of the most nuanced, complex, and sympathetic villains I’ve ever read in a Star Wars book. I rarely want more time in the head of a villain, but I was glued to the page whenever it was a Brilla chapter. More of these types of villains — especially women — in Star Wars, please.
If you can’t tell, I loved this book. I spent all weekend reading it, highlighting so many passages, and tearing up at least three times. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I will say that there were several moments when it all clicked — the sequels, the entire Skywalker saga, the Jedi legacy, everything I love in Star Wars. It’s an essential read for The Rise of Skywalker and to understand why no one — the Skywalkers, the Jedi, everyone who sacrificed to save the galaxy — is ever truly gone.
Full review from my Substack:
This book reminds me why I love Star Wars books so much.
That’s the message I sent to one of the Penguin Random House editors behind Star Wars: Legacy by Madeleine Roux, which arrived this week. The book is set between The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, specifically a little bit after the events of Resistance Reborn by Rebecca Roanhorse. Whereas that book focused on rebuilding the ranks of the Resistance after a crushing defeat at Crait, Legacy slows the story to give us much-needed time with Leia and Rey.
I was cautiously optimistic going into this book. When it was announced last October, my excitement was palpable. Finally, another sequel-era novel, and this time, with Leia and Rey as the main characters. I did eventually temper my expectations because, surely, a Star Wars book wasn’t going to fill in ALL the gaps and answer ALL the questions left after watching The Rise of Skywalker. Understandably, Star Wars is protective of its characters who were created for the screen. Rey has appeared in several books, but I was hesitant to get too excited about the possibility of a book that showcases her inner thoughts and perspectives. Leia has several books largely about her, for which I am utterly grateful. And after my expectations weren't met by Master of Evil and Eyes Like Stars (both are still great stories), I didn’t want to set myself up for disappointment with Legacy.
I should’ve never doubted a Star Wars book’s ability to move me — to give me dialogue and prose that remind me of a core tenet of Star Wars storytelling. No one’s ever really gone. They live on in memories and physical belongings, yes, but also in their words. Those words are written down, preserved in holobooks or recordings, or even just kept safe in someone’s heart and mind. In this galaxy, they live on in the Force. These stories, lessons, and people appear to those who need them most, exactly when they need them.
Through much of Legacy, Rey is tangibly frustrated. I’d also argue she’s angry and afraid, too, as she wages a war within herself. She’s afraid of being afraid, and frustrated over her own anger and fear. She desperately wants to avoid the dark side, but that darkness within her — the feelings of loneliness and pressure to carry on the Jedi legacy — keep bubbling to the surface. All she’s ever been is on her own, but she doesn’t know what to do or who to trust with her darkest secrets. She is, quite literally, the last Jedi, and the pressure of rebuilding a millennia-old religion is too much to bear alone.
Leia sees herself in Rey. Legacy cements just how similar the two women are. Leia understands the loneliness and the pressure to lead and persevere despite the odds. Through Leia, we experience the exhaustion of a life lived in service of others — a life devoted to fighting back the dark and sacrificing for a chance at freedom. Her choices weigh heavily on her, especially those that she believes led her son to the dark side. Leia wants to be…something for Rey. Throughout the book, she struggles to figure out what the young Jedi needs — a mother, a mentor, a teacher? All she knows is that she’s not a Jedi and she’s no Luke.
It’s in these moments where Leia and Rey butt heads and tiptoe around each other that the story really shines. It’s apparent how much they care for one another in The Rise of Skywalker, and Legacy shows all the rough, intense, quiet, and emotional moments it took to form that relationship. Along the way, both Rey and Leia learn how to live with their darkness without fighting it or letting it rule them.
Some small gaps from the movie get filled, too — how the broken Skywalker lightsaber got fixed and how Rey learned Force healing powers. I’d also argue that Legacy presents the best reasoning for Rey taking on the Skywalker name.
While Rey and Leia are the heart of this story, the book introduces a cast of new characters that add depth to the high stakes faced by both the Resistance and the entire galaxy. There are rebels on the run and in hiding as refugees after a botched assassination attempt on a First Order major. I’m usually hesitant to get too attached to new characters in books, mainly because I don’t want them to take away from precious time with our heroes. But Major Brilla Wolstenholme was one of the most nuanced, complex, and sympathetic villains I’ve ever read in a Star Wars book. I rarely want more time in the head of a villain, but I was glued to the page whenever it was a Brilla chapter. More of these types of villains — especially women — in Star Wars, please.
If you can’t tell, I loved this book. I spent all weekend reading it, highlighting so many passages, and tearing up at least three times. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I will say that there were several moments when it all clicked — the sequels, the entire Skywalker saga, the Jedi legacy, everything I love in Star Wars. It’s an essential read for The Rise of Skywalker and to understand why no one — the Skywalkers, the Jedi, everyone who sacrificed to save the galaxy — is ever truly gone.
July 31, 2026
My issues with 'Legacy' might come down to the fact I listened to it on audiobook, rather than because of the novel itself. The narrator was good but I haven't listened to any audiobooks in a while so I found myself zoning out and having to rewind quite a lot. I do think this is one that I will eventually reread physically.
Anyway, I've been really looking forward to 'Legacy' ever since it was announced because it fit so nicely into the giant sequel era chronological project that I did last year. The gap between 'The Last Jedi' and 'The Rise of Skywalker' has some good content in it, but there is surprisingly little development for Rey. This novel shows us how her and Leia grew closer between the two films and gives us some more wonderful insight into Leia and the Force.
My favourite scenes and chapters were when the novel focused on those two. I always enjoy Leia reflecting on the past and her time training with Luke still has a lot of mystery to it. Lucasfilm actually just announced a new novel coming out next year called 'Twin Crossroads' that is set in that time period, which feels perfect as a follow up to 'Legacy'. We also get some fun surprises in this book either through Force Ghosts appearing to our two leads, or people appearing in mystical visions. The planet that the bulk of the story is set on has something strange inside of it that is bringing all of these things to the surface for both women.
I didn't care about the new characters and their plots in 'Legacy' much but I think that is because I was always so desperate to get back to Rey and Leia. There is a whole extended family that we spend a lot of time with and while I liked all of the characters well enough, I can't say I was ever invested in their story. We also spend a lot of time in the perspective of a First Order captain named Brilla. I enjoyed her storyline and I always appreciate an insight into the Empire or the First Order, but she wasn't the most thrilling character of that type that I have read about. It is her portions of the story that I want to revisit most with a physical read, because I felt like I missed some stuff.
The author Madeleine Roux does a good job at emulating the voices of the characters we are familiar with, mostly Rey and Leia, and I hope she writes more 'Star Wars' stories. You can find all of my 'Star Wars' book reviews here and I also have an entire timeline of reviews (books, shows, films) here.
Anyway, I've been really looking forward to 'Legacy' ever since it was announced because it fit so nicely into the giant sequel era chronological project that I did last year. The gap between 'The Last Jedi' and 'The Rise of Skywalker' has some good content in it, but there is surprisingly little development for Rey. This novel shows us how her and Leia grew closer between the two films and gives us some more wonderful insight into Leia and the Force.
My favourite scenes and chapters were when the novel focused on those two. I always enjoy Leia reflecting on the past and her time training with Luke still has a lot of mystery to it. Lucasfilm actually just announced a new novel coming out next year called 'Twin Crossroads' that is set in that time period, which feels perfect as a follow up to 'Legacy'. We also get some fun surprises in this book either through Force Ghosts appearing to our two leads, or people appearing in mystical visions. The planet that the bulk of the story is set on has something strange inside of it that is bringing all of these things to the surface for both women.
I didn't care about the new characters and their plots in 'Legacy' much but I think that is because I was always so desperate to get back to Rey and Leia. There is a whole extended family that we spend a lot of time with and while I liked all of the characters well enough, I can't say I was ever invested in their story. We also spend a lot of time in the perspective of a First Order captain named Brilla. I enjoyed her storyline and I always appreciate an insight into the Empire or the First Order, but she wasn't the most thrilling character of that type that I have read about. It is her portions of the story that I want to revisit most with a physical read, because I felt like I missed some stuff.
The author Madeleine Roux does a good job at emulating the voices of the characters we are familiar with, mostly Rey and Leia, and I hope she writes more 'Star Wars' stories. You can find all of my 'Star Wars' book reviews here and I also have an entire timeline of reviews (books, shows, films) here.
July 31, 2026
Journey to the world of Tython, a place of deep significance within the Star Wars universe. This story unfolds after The Last Jedi but before The Rise of Skywalker, and it resonated with me more emotionally than I anticipated. The narrative shifts perspectives between Rey and General Leia Organa, with glimpses of other characters like Brilla, Gav, and Kylo Ren, allowing us to see how each is adjusting to different set circumstances pushing them all together. Rey and Leia's new roles as Master and Apprentice mirror the rule of two in its own unique way. Throughout this universe governed by the rule of two, we witness Leia's dedication to her teachings from someone she trusts so she can in turn help her apprentice, and Rey's brave exploration of her isolation/independence after the heartbreak of The Last Jedi. I appreciated how their emotional journeys unfold, highlighting their growth and the bond that develops between them. Rey’s strength and resilience shine through, yet we also see her vulnerability and the inner fears she’s learning to face—reminding us that even the bravest need support. The moment near the end when Rey shares a heartfelt conversation with Anakin Skywalker was truly moving—a beautiful full-circle moment that touched my heart.
As always, I can't resist the subtle hints to Reylo—my heart always yearns for more Ben/Rey moments! That connection keeps me eagerly awaiting more… and *screams like Kylo Ren* MORE.
As always, I can't resist the subtle hints to Reylo—my heart always yearns for more Ben/Rey moments! That connection keeps me eagerly awaiting more… and *screams like Kylo Ren* MORE.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2026
This book is one of the most frustrating Star Wars books I’ve read. The good parts are very good, some of them exceptional even. However, they are buried in almost 400 pages of uninteresting new characters and a B plot that is time wasting and almost soul sucking. However, I loved many of the Leia and Rey interactions, the Tython visions and musings on the Force. This would have made a great short story or novella back in the day but this is not a very good book.
July 31, 2026
This book is set between TLJ and TROS, and follows Rey and Leia as they explore an ancient Jedi temple on Tython, searching for a way to heal the broken kyber crystal from the Skywalker lightsaber. Rey doesn't have the inner peace needed to perform the healing; secretly, she's deeply ashamed of her failed attempt to turn Kylo Ren. Leia wants to help, but she's the last person Rey feels comfortable confiding in on this topic.
It makes sense that Rey needs to find healing for herself before she can embark on more advanced spiritual pursuits, and if this book gets one thing right, it's Rey's psychology: her stubborn self-reliance, slowness to open up and trust others, and pride that causes her to bury her own feelings. This is crucial to the story.
At the same time, this means we don't really get into a lot of Jedi-specific stuff until near the end of the book, when Rey discovers a stash of holovids of old Jedi masters. It's a delight to see her staying up all night on the Falcon, popping cassette after cassette into R2-D2, and finally getting the guidance she's been desperately seeking.
Where this book can feel unsatisfying, though, is in its relationships. I was looking forward to seeing the special master-student bond between Rey and Leia develop, but Rey spends most of the story refusing to open up to her mentor. Even if this is realistic from a psychological standpoint, it does feel like a missed opportunity.
Then there's Rey's relationship with Ben. This book seems to go out of its way to sap nearly all the warmth out of the memory of the bond that was so compellingly portrayed in The Last Jedi. We barely get a sense of the good thing that Rey is mourning the loss of. Even the hope for and compassion towards Ben that would be fitting for a Jedi to feel seems to be missing. Everything is reduced to Rey's fear that she will turn to the dark side.
At the same time, the book is coy about what Rey's attraction to the dark side actually consists of. Is she confused, like Anakin and Ben, into thinking that the dark side is actually correct? Is she just looking for an outlet for her feelings, even one that she knows is wrong? Is this all paranoia and excessive introspection? The reader shouldn't be left to guess on such an important point.
The ending does nicely tie up the theme of speculation on the road not taken, and the lines with which Rey finally accepts her situation are truly beautiful. Ultimately, Rey fans will still want to pick this up. But like Rey and Leia, I am left with a haunting sense of what this book could have been.
It makes sense that Rey needs to find healing for herself before she can embark on more advanced spiritual pursuits, and if this book gets one thing right, it's Rey's psychology: her stubborn self-reliance, slowness to open up and trust others, and pride that causes her to bury her own feelings. This is crucial to the story.
At the same time, this means we don't really get into a lot of Jedi-specific stuff until near the end of the book, when Rey discovers a stash of holovids of old Jedi masters. It's a delight to see her staying up all night on the Falcon, popping cassette after cassette into R2-D2, and finally getting the guidance she's been desperately seeking.
Where this book can feel unsatisfying, though, is in its relationships. I was looking forward to seeing the special master-student bond between Rey and Leia develop, but Rey spends most of the story refusing to open up to her mentor. Even if this is realistic from a psychological standpoint, it does feel like a missed opportunity.
Then there's Rey's relationship with Ben. This book seems to go out of its way to sap nearly all the warmth out of the memory of the bond that was so compellingly portrayed in The Last Jedi. We barely get a sense of the good thing that Rey is mourning the loss of. Even the hope for and compassion towards Ben that would be fitting for a Jedi to feel seems to be missing. Everything is reduced to Rey's fear that she will turn to the dark side.
At the same time, the book is coy about what Rey's attraction to the dark side actually consists of. Is she confused, like Anakin and Ben, into thinking that the dark side is actually correct? Is she just looking for an outlet for her feelings, even one that she knows is wrong? Is this all paranoia and excessive introspection? The reader shouldn't be left to guess on such an important point.
The ending does nicely tie up the theme of speculation on the road not taken, and the lines with which Rey finally accepts her situation are truly beautiful. Ultimately, Rey fans will still want to pick this up. But like Rey and Leia, I am left with a haunting sense of what this book could have been.
August 3, 2026
"You won't be alone...But it will be lonely."
As young Jedi Rey struggles to make peace with the darkness within her, she sets out with General Leia Organa, Wookie pilot, Chewbacca, and the droids C-3PO and RD-D2 to travel to the planet Tython, where Rey hopes to find a forge that will help her fix the lightsaber that once belong to Anakin Skywalker. As fate (or the will of the Force ) would have it, there is a small band of people camped in Tython being led by a member of the Church of the Force. As the two groups get to know each other and Rey explored a cave filled with Jedi artifacts while searching for the forge, a First Order officer, Major Brilla Wolstenholme, reeling after an attempt on her life, seeks to find those who tried to assassinate her even as she comes to suspect that she doesn't mean much to the military machine that is the First Order.
As a huge fan of birth eh Sequel Trilogy and if Rey, I eagerly anticipated this book. It didn't disappoint. Some might find the story a bit "small", as in a great majority of the story takes place in one location, and many chapters being devoid of action, I appreciated that the story took time to explore the story's characters -- their feelings, motivations, and the struggles within themselves. And damn if I didn't love the young Chadra-Fan, Meepka. What a brave little soul. If I had one real complaint, it would be that I wish Chewie had been better utilized. There were times when I forgot he was even there in Tython because he was so rarely mentioned and had such a small part to play. Not a big problem, though, as this really was Rey's story most of all, and also Leia's to a smaller extent.
4/5
As young Jedi Rey struggles to make peace with the darkness within her, she sets out with General Leia Organa, Wookie pilot, Chewbacca, and the droids C-3PO and RD-D2 to travel to the planet Tython, where Rey hopes to find a forge that will help her fix the lightsaber that once belong to Anakin Skywalker. As fate (or the will of the Force ) would have it, there is a small band of people camped in Tython being led by a member of the Church of the Force. As the two groups get to know each other and Rey explored a cave filled with Jedi artifacts while searching for the forge, a First Order officer, Major Brilla Wolstenholme, reeling after an attempt on her life, seeks to find those who tried to assassinate her even as she comes to suspect that she doesn't mean much to the military machine that is the First Order.
As a huge fan of birth eh Sequel Trilogy and if Rey, I eagerly anticipated this book. It didn't disappoint. Some might find the story a bit "small", as in a great majority of the story takes place in one location, and many chapters being devoid of action, I appreciated that the story took time to explore the story's characters -- their feelings, motivations, and the struggles within themselves. And damn if I didn't love the young Chadra-Fan, Meepka. What a brave little soul. If I had one real complaint, it would be that I wish Chewie had been better utilized. There were times when I forgot he was even there in Tython because he was so rarely mentioned and had such a small part to play. Not a big problem, though, as this really was Rey's story most of all, and also Leia's to a smaller extent.
4/5
July 30, 2026
3.75 rating! Ok, I was looking forward to this book because I was hyped for a Rey/Leia adventure to repair the Skywalker lightsaber. It halfway delivered on this but with some issues. I was more invested in Rey's journey on Tython, trying to deal with how to fix the lightsaber and in turn, letting Leia mentor her through the ways of the Force (or what little knowledge she had gained with Luke). Like a few adult Star Wars novels before, I feel like the stories of the side characters took over from the main theme. The villain in the story, Brillo, felt flat to me and I saw her as very snotty and entitled in almost a cartoonish way. The Church of the Force was an interesting group, and I did appreciate their presence in the book. I have always loved Rey and Leia's relationship, and it was nice to see the ways they communicated, the push and pull of it. Overall, this was solid but I wish I loved it more than I did!
August 3, 2026
4.5 Stars rounded up
I adored my time with Legacy and need more Madeleine Roux writing Star Wars ASAP!!!! Not just a book exploring Rey & Leia relationship as master and Apprentice but also exploring how could Rey tell Leia she has a connection with her son.
The book takes place mostly on an old and very important planet for the jedi as Rey hopes to heal Luke Skywalkers Kyber crystal and all this kept my nerdy star wars brain feeding on all the old republic lore drops that take place through out this book.
Getting some secondary characters in this book that add more conversations to think about what would the first order do after the death of Snoke to keep morale high in their ranks with their new supreme leader .
All in all i really enjoyed my time with Legacy:) Exploring relationships , building on old republic lore , filling in details around the sequels and Leia speaking some Yoda level inspiration
I adored my time with Legacy and need more Madeleine Roux writing Star Wars ASAP!!!! Not just a book exploring Rey & Leia relationship as master and Apprentice but also exploring how could Rey tell Leia she has a connection with her son.
The book takes place mostly on an old and very important planet for the jedi as Rey hopes to heal Luke Skywalkers Kyber crystal and all this kept my nerdy star wars brain feeding on all the old republic lore drops that take place through out this book.
Getting some secondary characters in this book that add more conversations to think about what would the first order do after the death of Snoke to keep morale high in their ranks with their new supreme leader .
All in all i really enjoyed my time with Legacy:) Exploring relationships , building on old republic lore , filling in details around the sequels and Leia speaking some Yoda level inspiration
July 31, 2026
I loved this book. Im a squeal defender but will admit I was left disappointed with episode 9. This book helped fill in some of the gaps I felt the story had.
But beyond that, the story Roux jas writen about belonging and the nature of legacy is a powerful one. All the characters here are faced with their own challenges about what it means to find yourself in the middle of great upheaval. I would say this is a must read for Star Wars fans. If you have never read a star wars novel, this would be a good one to go into.
But beyond that, the story Roux jas writen about belonging and the nature of legacy is a powerful one. All the characters here are faced with their own challenges about what it means to find yourself in the middle of great upheaval. I would say this is a must read for Star Wars fans. If you have never read a star wars novel, this would be a good one to go into.
Review of advance copy
A fun romp that evoked the old tales and times, of a quest and a ship and a crew of heroes. The mystery and question at the heart of the book was well worth the ride, and seeing Leia and Rey together is always brilliant. The First Order parallel plot was intriguing, and it showed us a lot of the inner workings of the awful regime. I did appreciate the Legends nods, and the continuity stitching, but it was a book with a lot of heart, and that’s what matters most with Star Wars. Great fun.
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