Reading Dune Books: A Chronological Guide

Since Frank Herbert first captivated readers with his groundbreaking sci-fi novel, *Dune*, in 1965, the series has grown into a sprawling universe of political intrigue and interstellar adventure. Herbert's initial six novels laid the foundation, but the legacy continued after his death through the collaborative efforts of his son, Brian Herbert, and renowned author Kevin J. Anderson. Together, they have expanded the *Dune* universe to an impressive 23 novels, stretching across 15,000 years of intricate storytelling. If you're eager to explore this vast saga, understanding where to start and how to navigate the timeline is essential, especially with *Dune: Messiah* on the horizon. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide to the entire *Dune* book series, ensuring you can dive into the narrative that has enthralled generations.

How Many Dune Books Are There?

The *Dune* franchise boasts a total of 23 novels, with the original six penned by Frank Herbert himself. The subsequent books, all considered canon, have been co-authored by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, enriching the timeline and lore of the *Dune* universe.

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How to Read the Original Series in Order

To experience the core narrative as Frank Herbert intended, start with these six novels in sequence:

• Dune
• Dune Messiah
• Children of Dune
• God Emperor of Dune
• Heretics of Dune
• Chapterhouse: Dune

All Dune Books: Chronological Reading Order

Warning: Each of the blurbs in this piece contains spoilers for the Dune book series.

The Butlerian Jihad by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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Set 10,000 years before the events of Herbert's original *Dune*, this prequel trilogy's first installment delves deep into the universe's lore. It explores the origins of a devastating war between humanity and the artificial intelligence they created, setting the stage for the technologically-limited world of the *Dune* series.

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The Machine Crusade by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The second book in the trilogy introduces more key figures, including ancestors of Houses Atreides and Harkonnen, amidst the ongoing war against the sentient computer overlord, Ominus. The narrative weaves dense worldbuilding with complex plotting, advancing the saga toward a pivotal confrontation.

The Battle of Corrin by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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Taking place 100 years after *The Butlerian Jihad*, this novel marks the culmination of the war, as Ominus' plan for domination nears fruition. It introduces crucial elements of the *Dune* universe's status quo and the battle-ready Fremen, setting the stage for the events of *Dune*.

Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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In the "Schools of Dune" trilogy, this novel jumps 83 years forward, exploring a world without "thinking machines." It follows various characters navigating the galaxy and highlights the rise of the Butlerian movement amidst growing tensions.

Mentats of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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With the thinking machines nearly eradicated, a school for Mentats—humans with supreme intelligence—is established. As various academies emerge, including the sisterhood on Wallach IX, a young woman's quest for vengeance threatens the universe's stability.

Navigators of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The final book in the trilogy delves deeper into the origins of the Bene Gesserit, Mentat, and Suk Schools, focusing on the escalating threat of anti-technology forces. The narrative questions whether reason can prevail against spreading fanaticism.

House Atreides by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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Set 35 years before the original *Dune* novels, this book introduces pivotal characters like Leto Atreides and Baron Harkonnen. It intricately weaves political machinations, setting the stage for the epic battles to come.

House Harkonnen by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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Continuing the Prelude trilogy, this novel delves deeper into the political struggles between Houses Harkonnen and Atreides, while the Bene Gesserit plot to create the Kwisatz Haderach, introducing Leto to his concubine Jessica.

House Corrino by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The action-packed conclusion to the Prelude trilogy focuses on Leto, Jessica, and their soon-to-be-born son Paul. The Bene Gesserit eagerly anticipate the arrival of their chosen one, though the outcome may not meet their expectations.

Princess of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This companion novel explores the lives of the two women closest to Paul Atreides: his wife, Irulan, and his lover, Chani. Their stories provide a deeper understanding of the women who shaped Paul's journey.

The Duke of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The first in the Caladan trilogy follows Leto Atreides' rise to power through integrity and action. His growing influence sets him on a perilous path that will ultimately prove fatal.

The Lady of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This novel examines Lady Jessica's life after betraying the Bene Gesserit, exploring how her choices reshape the universe and her struggle against the ancient order.

The Heir of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The final book in the trilogy centers on Paul Atreides' journey to find his strength and leadership, leading directly into the events of the original *Dune*.

Frank Herbert's Dune

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The seminal novel that ignited the *Dune* saga introduces readers to the Atreides family and their quest for control over the spice trade on Arrakis. Its dense narrative is essential for understanding Herbert's expansive universe.

Paul of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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Serving as both a prequel and sequel to *Dune*, this novel explores Paul Atreides' life before and after the events of the original book, offering insights into his early years and his time with the Fremen.

Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah

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Set a decade after *Dune*, this sequel finds Paul Atreides as Emperor, grappling with the unintended consequences of his leadership and the universal Jihad he has inspired.

The Winds of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This novel bridges the gap between *Dune Messiah* and *Children of Dune*, following key characters like Jessica and Alia as they navigate the aftermath of Paul's presumed death.

Frank Herbert's Children of Dune

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As Arrakis undergoes ecological transformation, Paul's children, Leto and Ghanima, confront their father's legacy and the looming threats to the spice trade.

Frank Herbert's God Emperor of Dune

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3,500 years after *Children of Dune*, Leto II has merged with a sandworm, ruling the universe with an iron grip. This novel examines his reign and its cosmic impact.

Frank Herbert's Heretics of Dune

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Set 1,500 years after Leto II's death, this novel explores a resurgent humanity and the rise of three new civilizations, with the Bene Gesserit facing a pivotal decision.

Frank Herbert's Chapterhouse: Dune

In Herbert's final novel, the Bene Gesserit are embroiled in a fierce battle with the Honored Matres, ending on a cliffhanger that Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson later resolved.

Hunters of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The first of a duology based on Frank Herbert's notes for *Dune 7*, this novel continues the saga, exploring the aftermath of the Bene Gesserit's war and the return of humanity's scattered descendants.

Sandworms of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This concluding volume ties together the series' many threads, featuring clones, surprising returns, and a climactic battle that resolves the overarching narrative.

Will There Be More Dune?

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While Brian Herbert may continue to expand the *Dune* universe with more novels, the success of the *Dune* and *Dune Part 2* films ensures that the saga will live on in other media. *Dune: Prophecy* is currently streaming on Max, exploring the origins of the Bene Gesserit, while Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of *Dune Messiah* is slated for release in late 2026. Additionally, Funcom is developing *Dune: Awakening*, an open-world survival MMO set for release in early 2025 on PC, with console releases to follow.