NEW YORK — Random House has acquired a new "Godfather" novel titled "Connie," written by Adriana Trigiani and authorized by the estate of Mario Puzo, with publication scheduled for fall 2027. The book will center on Connie Corleone, the Corleone family member played by Talia Shire in the three "Godfather" films.

"Connie" is the third "Godfather" book approved by Puzo's estate and the first written by a woman. Trigiani is a bestselling author.

"'Connie' is a novel about how a woman works to forge her own way in a world that's already decided who she is, what she's about, and how she should be treated," Trigiani said. She framed the character alongside the saga's other principals. "People underestimated Don Vito Corleone and Michael Corleone at their peril. The same will be true for Connie Corleone," she said.

Puzo's 1969 novel "The Godfather" provided the basis and title for the first film, produced by Paramount Pictures, which holds the film rights to the "Godfather" movies. Shire, who portrayed Connie on screen, is the sister of director Francis Ford Coppola.

Puzo died in 1999. Since his death, his estate and Paramount have battled over who controls rights to the Corleone characters. In 2012, Paramount sued to block publication of Ed Falco's "The Family Corleone." After the estate countersued, the parties agreed to a settlement that allowed the estate to initiate book projects and awarded film rights to Paramount.

More than 10 years have passed since the last "Godfather" novel was published. The last "Godfather" movie was released decades ago. The announcement of "Connie" marks the return of the franchise to print under the terms of that settlement.