A Fresh Star Wars Tale Explores Finn and Jannah’s Next Chapter

The Star Wars galaxy keeps growing, and I’m thrilled to share news about a new book that picks up where ‘The Rise of Skywalker’ left off. Titled ‘Star Wars: The Last Order,’ this young adult novel dives into the lives of Finn and Jannah, two characters who captured our hearts in the sequel trilogy. Set to hit shelves on October 21, 2025, the story promises action, heart, and a deeper look at their pasts.

Finn, played by John Boyega, started as a stormtrooper named FN-2187 in ‘The Force Awakens.’ He broke free from the First Order’s grip, refusing to harm innocents on Jakku. His journey took him from fugitive to Resistance hero, teaming up with Poe Dameron and Rey. In ‘The Rise of Skywalker,’ we saw hints of his Force sensitivity, though it was never fully explored. That tease left many of us wanting more, and this book might just deliver.

Jannah, portrayed by Naomi Ackie, joined the saga in ‘The Rise of Skywalker.’ Once a stormtrooper known as TZ-1719, she defected and led a group of fighters on the ocean moon Kef Bir. Her bond with Finn over their shared past was a highlight, especially when they teamed up during the Battle of Exegol. Their chemistry sparked curiosity about what could come next, and now we’re getting answers.

In ‘Star Wars: The Last Order,’ Finn and Jannah embark on a mission after the Resistance uncovers a ship carrying kidnapped children. The First Order, though weakened after ‘The Rise of Skywalker,’ isn’t gone. A rogue officer is behind the abductions, aiming to rebuild their army. Finn and Jannah, haunted by their own histories as stolen children turned soldiers, take on the task of stopping him. The story will dig into their origins, shedding light on the lives they lost to the First Order.

Kwame Mbalia, the author behind this tale, is no stranger to storytelling. Known for the ‘Tristan Strong’ series, he also contributed to the ‘From a Certain Point of View: Return of the Jedi’ anthology. His knack for crafting rich, action-packed stories makes him a great fit for Star Wars. This is his first full-length novel in the galaxy far, far away, and I’m eager to see his take on these heroes.

The book also hints at bigger things for the Star Wars timeline. After ‘The Rise of Skywalker,’ the galaxy is in flux. The Resistance is still active, suggesting no central government has fully taken over post-Exegol. This novel, set shortly after the 2019 film, could set the stage for future stories, like Shawn Levy’s ‘Starfighter,’ a movie slated for 2027 that takes place five years later. We might even get clarity on Finn’s Force potential or Jannah’s search for her family, a thread left open when she spoke with Lando Calrissian at the end of ‘The Rise of Skywalker.’

Boyega and Ackie brought Finn and Jannah to life with depth and charm. Boyega’s performance earned him a BAFTA Rising Star Award, while Ackie trained for months in archery and horseback riding to embody Jannah’s warrior spirit. Their real-life chemistry fueled speculation about a Finn-Jannah romance. Whether the book leans into that or keeps their bond platonic, their shared history as defectors promises emotional weight.

I can’t help but feel excited about this focus on Finn and Jannah. The sequel trilogy juggled a lot, and these characters sometimes got less screen time than we hoped. A novel lets their stories breathe, exploring their struggles and triumphs in ways a film can’t. Plus, it’s a chance to see the galaxy after the Skywalker Saga, a period that’s still largely uncharted.

‘Star Wars: The Last Order’ is shaping up to be a must-read for anyone who cheered for Finn and Jannah. It’s a story about facing the past while fighting for a better future, and I’m counting down the days until October 2025 to join them on this adventure.