Few things in 2025 remind fans of the passage of time quite like realizing that *Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith* is now two decades old. But instead of mourning the years gone by, Star Wars enthusiasts have a reason to celebrate—George Lucas’ final entry in the Skywalker saga is returning to theaters this May as part of a special anniversary event hosted by Lucasfilm. And if that weren’t exciting enough, Matthew Stover’s acclaimed novelization of the film is also receiving a 20th-anniversary re-release, complete with an expanded deluxe edition you can already preorder on Amazon.
A Deluxe Edition for a Definitive Star Wars Novel
As reported by Collider, fans can look forward to a stunning Deluxe Edition hardcover of *Revenge of the Sith*, set to arrive this October. This collector’s item features eye-catching upgrades such as red foil-edged pages, new cover art, and a removable acetate dust jacket. What makes this edition especially compelling, however, is the inclusion of over 170 brand-new annotations written by author Matthew Stover himself.
“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 at Random House Worlds. “It has been thrilling to work with Matthew Stover and Lucasfilm to create a fully annotated edition that gives readers unprecedented insight into the creation of this masterpiece.”
Hoeler went on to praise the book’s unique narrative approach, noting how it stands apart not only among Star Wars novels but within the broader category of film adaptations. Two decades after its original release, Stover’s novel remains a deeply influential piece of Star Wars literature—one that continues to resonate with both readers and creators alike. The deluxe hardcover format is a fitting tribute to its legacy.
Image Credit: Lucasfilm / Penguin Random House
Why Stover’s Novelization Still Matters
For those unfamiliar with Stover’s take on *Revenge of the Sith*, the novel is often considered one of the finest entries in the entire Star Wars literary canon—and many argue it surpasses the film itself. While it closely follows George Lucas’ screenplay, the book fleshes out key scenes, deepens character motivations, and provides a more intimate psychological portrait of Anakin Skywalker’s fall to the dark side. It also expands subplots involving Obi-Wan Kenobi, Count Dooku, and even minor characters, offering a richer storytelling experience than the movie alone.
One of the most distinctive features of the novel is its use of second-person narration during pivotal moments. This stylistic choice immerses readers directly into the emotional turmoil of characters, particularly during Anakin’s transformation into Darth Vader. Consider this excerpt:
*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… In the end, the shadow is all you have left. Because the shadow understands you, the shadow forgives you, the shadow gathers you unto itself—And within your furnace heart, you burn in your own flame.*
In contrast, the film handles the moment with significantly less depth, relying mostly on visual cues and sparse dialogue. It's moments like these that highlight why Stover’s novel continues to earn critical acclaim and fan appreciation long after its initial publication.
Where to Get the Deluxe Edition
The standard paperback and audiobook editions of *Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith* are already available for purchase. However, fans looking for a premium collectible version should mark their calendars for October 14, when the Deluxe Edition hardcover hits shelves. You can currently [preorder a copy at Amazon]([ttpp]) for $60.
If you're a dedicated Star Wars fan—or simply appreciate well-crafted science fiction—this edition promises to be a worthy addition to your collection. After all, sometimes the best way to truly understand a story is to experience it through the written word.
