Star Wars Journal: Darth Maul presents a narrative from the perspective of Darth Maul, focusing on the period around the events of The Phantom Menace. It comprises twelve entries penned by Maul for the Sith Archives, each revealing aspects of his history, strategies, and assignments, culminating in his planned battle against Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi on Naboo. An epilogue is provided by Darth Sidious, who recounts the presumed demise of his Sith apprentice, while also commenting on his shortcomings and exceptional swordsmanship.
This concise novel is included within The Wrath of Darth Maul.
Maul recounts his birth on Iridonia and his subsequent abduction by Darth Sidious during his youth. Early chapters depict him sleeping on the floor, a method to cultivate his anger. A crucial moment in his training involves a staged confrontation by Palpatine, intended to instill hatred towards his master. Following a demanding mission, Sidious confronts Maul, feigning an intent to kill him and claiming to have found a superior apprentice. Maul passes this test by engaging in combat, only to discover that his master's lightsaber is a training saber. Prior to detailing his mission to Naboo, Maul explains his decision to construct and wield a double-bladed lightsaber, emulating Exar Kun.
Darth Sidious concludes the journal of Darth Maul following his apparent death on Naboo, summarizing the occurrences that led to his seeming demise. He resolves that his next apprentice will be without flaws, unlike Darth Maul. Sidious then contemplates whether to add the journal to the Sith archives or to destroy it.