Dune Books: A Chronological Reading Guide

Since the release of Frank Herbert's groundbreaking sci-fi novel *Dune* in 1965, readers have been captivated by the intricate and expansive political machinations of his universe. While Herbert himself authored six novels in the series, the legacy has been carried forward by his son Brian Herbert and co-author Kevin J. Anderson, expanding the saga to an impressive 23 novels that span over 15,000 years of history. If you're eager to dive into this vast universe, especially with the anticipation surrounding *Dune: Messiah*, we're here to guide you through the complete timeline of the Dune books.

How Many Dune Books Are There?

The Dune franchise currently boasts a total of 23 books. However, it's important to note that only the initial six were penned by Frank Herbert. The rest, while considered canon, were written by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, adding depth and breadth to the original narrative.

### Includes 6 Books Frank Herbert Dune Box Set

9See hardcover options as well.$108.00 save 31%$74.97 at Amazon### How to Read the Original Series in Order

For those wishing to experience the saga as Frank Herbert intended, start with:

1. Dune
2. Dune Messiah
3. Children of Dune
4. God Emperor of Dune
5. Heretics of Dune
6. Chapterhouse: Dune

All Dune Books: Chronological Reading Order

Warning: The following descriptions contain spoilers for the Dune series.

The Butlerian Jihad by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### The Butlerian Jihad by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

9$9.99 save 0%$9.99 at AmazonThis prequel, the first in a trilogy, sets the stage for the Dune universe, occurring 10,000 years before the original Dune. It details the origins of a war between humans and the artificial intelligences they created, laying the groundwork for the technologically-limited world of the series.

The Machine Crusade by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### The Machine Crusade by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

10$9.99 save 25%$7.48 at AmazonThe second book in the trilogy introduces key figures from the Houses Atreides and Harkonnen as the war against the sentient computer overlord, Omnius, continues. This novel deepens the lore and sets the scene for the climactic battle.

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

### Dune: The Battle of Corrin

5$9.99 save 0%$9.99 at AmazonTaking place a century after The Butlerian Jihad, this book sees Omnius nearing victory. It's crucial for establishing the status quo of the original Dune, particularly introducing the battle-ready Fremen.

Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Sisterhood of Dune

6$11.99 See it at AmazonPart of the "Schools of Dune" trilogy, this novel jumps 83 years forward and explores life without "thinking machines," focusing on the growing Butlerian movement and the universe's shifting dynamics.

Mentats of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Mentats of Dune

5$9.99 save 5%$9.49 at AmazonFollowing the near-destruction of thinking machines, schools are established to train Mentats and other specialized humans. The story centers on a young woman seeking vengeance, whose actions threaten the new order.

Navigators of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Navigators of Dune

5$9.99 save 6%$9.41 at AmazonThe final book in the trilogy delves into the origins of the Bene Gesserit, Mentat, and Suk Schools, and the rising threat of anti-technology forces inspired by the Butlerian Jihad.

House Atreides by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### House Atreides

4$9.99 save 25%$7.49 at AmazonSet 35 years before the original Dune, this book introduces key characters like Leto Atreides and Duncan Idaho, and sets the stage for the political intrigue leading to the epic conflict.

House Harkonnen by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### House Harkonnen

1$9.99 save 0%$9.99 at AmazonContinuing the Prelude trilogy, this novel explores the power struggles between Houses Atreides and Harkonnen, and the Bene Gesserit's plans to create the Kwisatz Haderach.

House Corrino by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### House Corrino

2$14.21 save 0%$14.21 at AmazonThe conclusion of the Prelude trilogy focuses on Leto, Jessica, and their soon-to-be-born son Paul, setting the stage for the events of the original Dune.

Princess of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Princess of Dune

5$28.99 save 0%$28.99 at AmazonThis companion novel explores the lives of Irulan and Chani, the two women central to Paul Atreides' life, offering a broader perspective on their roles and experiences.

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

### The Duke of Caladan

3$27.99 save 27%$20.49 at AmazonThe first book in the Caladan trilogy centers on Leto Atreides' rise to power, highlighting his integrity and the political challenges he faces.

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

### The Lady of Caladan

4$28.99 save 45%$15.99 at AmazonThis novel delves into Lady Jessica's life after betraying the Bene Gesserit, examining the consequences of her choices on the universe.

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

### The Heir of Caladan

2$19.99 save 0%$19.99 at AmazonThe final book in the Caladan trilogy focuses on Paul Atreides' journey to self-discovery and leadership, leading directly into the events of the original Dune.

Frank Herbert's Dune

### Frank Herbert's Dune

1$10.99 save 10%$9.89 at AmazonThe seminal work that started it all, Dune introduces readers to House Atreides and their quest to control the Spice trade on Arrakis, setting the stage for the expansive universe Herbert created.

Paul of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Paul of Dune

2$10.99 save 0%$10.99 at AmazonServing as both a prequel and sequel to Dune, this book explores Paul Atreides' life before and after the events of the original novel, enriching his character and the surrounding political landscape.

Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah

### Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah

1$9.99 save 10%$8.99 at AmazonPicking up a decade after Dune, this sequel focuses on Paul's reign as Emperor and his struggle to avert a future he has foreseen.

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

### The Winds of Dune

0$13.99 save 21%$10.99 at AmazonSet between Dune Messiah and Children of Dune, this novel follows the adventures of Jessica, Alia, and Duncan Idaho, adding context and expanding the lore.

Frank Herbert's Children of Dune

### Children of Dune

2$9.99 save 10%$8.99 at AmazonThis third book in the series explores the changing landscape of Arrakis and the challenges faced by Paul's children, Leto and Ghanima, as they confront their destinies.

Frank Herbert's God Emperor of Dune

### Frank Herbert's God Emperor of Dune

1$9.99 save 10%$8.99 at AmazonSet 3500 years after Children of Dune, this novel examines Leto's rule as he merges with a sandworm, controlling the universe with an iron grip and the Spice trade.

Frank Herbert's Heretics of Dune

### Frank Herbert's Heretics of Dune

0$9.99 save 0%$9.99 at AmazonJumping 1500 years after Leto's death, this book focuses on the resurgence of sandworms and the rise of new civilizations, including the Bene Gesserit's struggle for power.

Frank Herbert's Chapterhouse: Dune

In Frank Herbert's final novel, the Bene Gesserit face a brutal war with the Honored Matres, culminating in a cliffhanger that Herbert was unable to resolve before his death.

Hunters of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Hunters of Dune

1$10.99 save 14%$9.49 at AmazonThe first of a duology based on notes left by Frank Herbert, this book continues the story post-Chapterhouse: Dune, exploring the aftermath of the Bene Gesserit's war and the return of scattered human descendants.

Sandworms of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Sandworms of Dune

1$10.99 save 10%$9.89 at AmazonThe concluding book of the duology ties together many narrative threads, featuring clones, returns, and a climactic battle that brings closure to the saga.

Will There Be More Dune?

### Dune 2-Film Collection [4K UHD]

0$54.99 save 18%$44.99 at AmazonWhile Brian Herbert may continue the literary expansion of the Dune universe, the recent success of the Dune and Dune: Part Two films ensures that the franchise will continue on screen. Dune: Prophecy, streaming on Max, explores the origins of the Bene Gesserit, drawing inspiration from the "Sisterhood of Dune" book. Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of Dune Messiah is slated for a late 2026 release, potentially concluding his trilogy. Additionally, the gaming world is set to welcome Dune: Awakening, an open-world survival MMO from Funcom, expected in early 2025 on PC, with console releases to follow.