Catalyst

The must-have prequel novel to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story — the upcoming film, set before the events of Star Wars: A New Hope, that reveals the untold story of the rebel effort to steal the plans to the Death Star.

War is tearing the galaxy apart. For years the Republic and the Separatists have battled across the stars, building more and more deadly technology in an attempt to win the war. As a member of Chancellor Palpatine’s top-secret Death Star project, Orson Krennic is determined to develop a super-weapon before their enemies. And an old friend of Krennic’s, the brilliant scientist Galen Erso, could be the key.

Galen’s energy-focused research has captured the attention of both Krennic and his foes, making the scientist crucial pawn in the galactic conflict. But after Krennic rescues Galen, his wife Lyra, and their young daughter Jyn from Separatist kidnappers, the Erso family is deeply in Krennic’s debt. Krennic then offers Galen an extraordinary opportunity — to continue his scientific studies with every resource at his disposal. While Galen and Lyra believe his energy research will be used purely in altruistic ways, Krennic has other plans that will finally make the Death Star a reality. Trapped in their benefactor’s tightening grasp, the Ersos must untangle Krennic’s web of deception to save themselves, their daughter, and the galaxy itself.