Claudia Grey's "Star Wars: Bloodline" novel got a big assist: Rian Johnson, who is currently directing "Star Wars: Episode VIII," offered some input for the in-canon novel. According to StarWars.com, "some of the story ideas and elements in this novel came straight from Rian Johnson."

Additionally, the novel will explore many of the critical elements from "Star Wars: The Force Awakens"; it will show how and why the Resistance was formed, the rise of the First Order and Han and Leia's relationship, among other things. What's more, it appears as though the galaxy is about to learn Leia's true parentage, and the novel will find the General dealing with the fallout.

"Bloodline" will also feature new characters, like Joph -- "a New Republic pilot who craves adventure" -- and Greer, "Leia’s personal assistant... [who] has her own yearning for excitement."

"Star Wars: Bloodline" will go on sale May 3. "Star Wars: Episode VIII," which is currently in production, is scheduled to bow on December 15, 2017.