20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition of Top Star Wars Novel Released

Few moments in 2025 may hit quite as hard as realizing that *Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith* has now been with us for two full decades. But rather than dwell on the passage of time, fans have plenty to celebrate: the film is set to return to theaters this May as part of a special anniversary event hosted by Lucasfilm. And if that weren’t enough, Matthew Stover’s acclaimed novelization of *Revenge of the Sith* is also being re-released to mark its 20th anniversary—available for preorder now at Amazon.

As first reported by Collider, a brand-new Deluxe Edition hardcover of the novelization will hit shelves this October. This premium edition will feature updated cover art, red foil-edged pages, and a removable acetate dust jacket. Even more exciting is the inclusion of over 170 new annotations written by Matthew Stover himself, offering readers deeper insight into the creation of this beloved adaptation.

"We couldn’t be more excited to publish this incredible deluxe edition of the *Revenge of the Sith* novelization," said Tom Hoeler, Editorial Director of Fiction and Special Projects for Random House Worlds. "It has been thrilling to work with author Matthew Stover and Lucasfilm to create a fully annotated edition that gives readers unprecedented insight into the creation of this masterpiece. Across nearly 50 years of Star Wars books, it stands alone, and even among film novelizations its approach to adapting characters and story from screen to page is unique. Two decades later, this novelization is as essential, enduring, and influential—on readers and creators—as it has ever been. Bringing the book back to hardcover in a stunning deluxe keepsake edition is a perfect way to celebrate 20 years of *Revenge of the Sith.*"

The Deluxe Edition hardcover will be available starting October 14 and is already available for preorder. Priced at $60, it's a must-have for collectors and longtime fans alike.

Why Stover’s Novelization Still Stands Out

For those unfamiliar with Matthew Stover’s *Revenge of the Sith* novelization, it’s widely considered one of the finest entries in the entire *Star Wars* literary universe—and many argue it surpasses the movie itself. While it follows George Lucas’ original screenplay closely, Stover expands key scenes and subplots, delivering a richer emotional and psychological depth to characters such as Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Count Dooku.

What makes the book especially unique is its bold narrative structure, which includes second-person interludes that pull readers directly into the minds of these iconic figures. For example, consider how the novel explores Anakin’s transformation into Darth Vader—a moment far more visceral and haunting than what appears on screen:

*"And you rage and scream and reach through the Force to crush the shadow who has destroyed you, but you are so far less now than what you were, you are more than half machine, you are like a painter gone blind, a composer gone deaf, you can remember where the power was but the power you can touch is only a memory..."*

This deeply personal narrative technique sets the novel apart from most other media tie-ins and demonstrates how powerful a well-crafted adaptation can be.

How to Get the Book

The *Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith* novelization is currently available in paperback and audiobook formats. The Deluxe Edition hardcover will release on October 14, 2025, and can be preordered now via Amazon.

If you're looking for more ways to celebrate the legacy of *Star Wars*, why not explore the wide selection of collectibles available in the IGN Store? From statues to apparel, there’s something for every fan.