Ronin: A Visions Novel (Japanese:『浪人』) is a novel written by Emma Mieko Candon. Based off of the Star Wars: Visions short film "The Duel," the novel was published by Del Rey on October 12, 2021. The story is set in a reimagined galaxy that draws inspiration from Japanese culture, storytelling, and lore to create an alternate history of the Jedi and the Sith.
A mysterious former Sith wanders the galaxy in this stunning Star Wars tale. An original novel inspired by the world of "The Duel" from the Star Wars Visions [sic] animated anthology.
The Jedi are the most loyal servants of the Empire.
Two decades ago, Jedi clans clashed in service to feuding lords. Sickened by this endless cycle, a sect of Jedi rebelled, seeking to control their own destiny and claim power in service of no master. They called themselves Sith.
The Sith rebellion failed, succumbing to infighting and betrayal, and the once rival lords unified to create an Empire… but even an Empire at peace is not free from violence.
Far on the edge of the Outer Rim, one former Sith wanders, accompanied only by a faithful droid and the ghost of a less civilized age. He carries a lightsaber, but claims lineage to no Jedi clan, and pledges allegiance to no lord. Little is known about him, including his name, for he never speaks of his past, nor his regrets. His history is as guarded as the red blade of destruction he carries sheathed at his side.
As the galaxy's perpetual cycle of violence continues to interrupt his self-imposed exile, and he is forced to duel an enigmatic bandit claiming the title of Sith, it becomes clear that no amount of wandering will ever let him outpace the specters of his former life.
Ronin: A Visions Novel was first announced by Del Rey on March 22, 2021. Its cover and the short it was inspired by were revealed on July 8, 2021.
Author Emma Mieko Candon is a fourth-generation Japanese-American who grew up in Hawaii, a state that Candon describes as saturated with Japanese culture, but also by the trauma of war and internment. Star Wars was influenced by Japanese narratives to create an American saga, and Candon drew upon Japanese narratives in reiterating that saga.
- ISBN 9780593358665; October 12, 2021; Del Rey; US hardcover
- ISBN 9780593359365; October 12, 2021; Del Rey; US hardcover, Barnes & Noble Exclusive Edition
- ISBN 9780593358672; October 12, 2021; Del Rey; US eBook
- ISBN 9780593496978; October 12, 2021; Del Rey; US paperback, export edition
- ISBN 9780593358689; July 12, 2022; Del Rey; US paperback