Timothy Zahn to Write New Star Trek Deep Space Nine Novel

Next to George Lucas, Timothy Zahn stands as one of the most important names in Star Wars. The author penned the Thrawn trilogy of novels in the 1990s, which is largely credited for reviving public interest in the science fiction series and defining much of the franchise expanded universe. Even today, much of what Zahn created has made its way into the current Star Wars canon. This makes it surprising that Zahn is now working on Star Trek.

Ahead of New York Comic Con, IDW Publishing revealed to The Nerdist that Zahn will write Star Trek: Roc’s Egg. Ángel Hernández, who has worked on multiple Star Trek comics, will provide art for the graphic novel. Here is the official synopsis:

Something is rotten on Deep Space 9. When a mysterious artifact known as a Roc’s Egg arrives on the station—and is seemingly destroyed in transit—a Federation JAG investigation is called in to uncover what really happened. But the deeper the team digs, the stranger the mystery becomes: a secret auction, a station full of wealthy collectors and dangerous criminals, a priceless artifact that may not be what it seems, and a murder waiting to happen. From acclaimed author Timothy Zahn and artist Ángel Hernández comes Star Trek: Roc’s Egg, a twisty new mystery set aboard Deep Space 9 where everyone has something to hide—and the truth may be more valuable than the treasure itself.

Regarding Zahn joining Star Trek, IDW editor Heather Antos said: “I can’t wait to see what Timothy does with this corner of the Star Trek universe. And I think fans are going to have an absolute blast trying to solve the mystery alongside him.” The graphic novel is scheduled for release in October 2027.

Star Trek could use Timothy Zahn right now

Two shows are currently airing—Strange New Worlds and Starfleet Academy—but both are set to conclude next year. That will mark the first time since 2017 that television lacks a Star Trek series. A film reboot is in development, but progress on that project appears slow. Trekkies will soon have virtually nothing new on screen, and Zahn is well-positioned to help fill that gap.

By the time Zahn wrote the Thrawn trilogy in the 1990s, Star Wars lacked mainstream popularity. Years had passed since the original films debuted, and no further movies were scheduled. Zahn books revived interest and helped give the franchise the momentum required to encourage George Lucas to produce the prequel films. At a time when the franchise stalled, Zahn revitalized it. Star Trek approaches a similar transition period, and hiring talent like Zahn to craft new stories shows fans that the universe continues to grow.

Source: Polygon