Bloodline (novel)

Bloodline, originally announced as New Republic: Bloodline, is a canon novel written by Claudia Gray. The story takes place six years prior to Star Wars: Episode VII The Force Awakens. It was released on May 3, 2016.

Publisher's summary
WITNESS THE BIRTH OF THE RESISTANCE

''When the Rebellion defeated the Empire in the skies above Endor, Leia Organa believed it was the beginning to a lasting peace. But after decades of vicious infighting and partisan gridlock in the New Republic Senate, that hope seems like a distant memory.''

''Now a respected senator, Leia must grapple with the dangers that threaten to cripple that fledging democracy&mdash;from both within and without. Underworld kingpins, treacherous politicians, and Imperial loyalists are sowing chaos in the galaxy. Desperate to take action, senators are calling for the election of a First Senator. It is their hope that this influential post will bring strong leadership to a divided galaxy.''

''As the daughter of Darth Vader, Leia faces with distrust the prospect of any one person holding such a powerful position&mdash;even when supporters suggest Leia herself for the job. But a new enemy may make this path Leia's only option. For at the edges of the galaxy, a mysterious threat is growing....''

Release
A description of the novel along with an excerpt of its thirteenth chapter was released by USA Today on February 4, 2016.