Dune Book Order: Complete Guide 2025

A little history of the Dune saga

The saga of Dune, created by Frank Herbert, is one of the most influential works of the Science fiction. First published in 1965, the series transports us to a vast and complex universe where the intergalactic politics, the ecology and the power struggle.

At its center is the planet Arrakis, also known as Dune, the only place in the universe where the Spice Melange, a substance that is key to space travel and grants psychic abilities to those who consume it.

Dune is not just an adventure story, but a profound reflection on the nature of power, ecology and spirituality. Over the years, the original work of Frank Herbert It was expanded by his son Brian Herbert and the writer Kevin J. Anderson, who continued the story with multiple prequels and sequels.

They made the universe of Dune grow even more. Below I leave you the recommended reading order of the Dune books, including both the original saga and the works that expand this fascinating universe.

How many books are there in the Dune saga?

In total, the original saga of Dune written by Frank Herbert consists of six books. However, if the works of Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, the universe of Dune expands significantly, reaching more than 20 books that explore different historical periods and characters within the series.

This offers a complete experience for fans who want to immerse themselves in all the details of the vast and complex world of Arrakis and beyond.

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Order of the Dune Chronicles saga in order of publication

1. Dune (1965)

In the distant future, the universe is ruled by an intergalactic feudal empire where Noble houses compete for power and control of vital resourcesYoung Paul Atreides, heir to House Atreides, moves with his family to the desert planet Arrakis, also known as Dune.

Arrakis is the only place in the universe where the spice melange is found, an invaluable substance that prolongs life, expands consciousness and is essential for space travel.

Following a betrayal orchestrated by House Harkonnen and with the complicity of the Padishah Emperor Shaddam IV, Duke Leto Atreides is killed, and Paul and his mother Lady Jessica flee into the deep desert.

There, they find refuge with the Fremen, the native inhabitants of the planet, who have adapted their lives to the harsh conditions of the desert. Paul begins to fulfill an ancient prophecy and becomes Muad'Dib, spiritual and military leader, starting a rebellion that will change the course of galactic history.

2. The Messiah of Dune (1969)

Twelve years after overthrowing the Emperor and assuming the throne, Paul Atreides rules as Emperor and is revered as a messiah by the Fremen. However, His empire has been engulfed in a jihad which has cost billions of lives in the name of their religion.

Paul struggles with the consequences of his actions and the visions of possible futures that haunt him. Meanwhile, a conspiracy is brewing against him, involving the Bene Tleilax, the Bene Gesserit and the Space Guild, who seek to overthrow him and control the spice.

The plot includes the resurrection of Duncan Idaho as a ghola named Hayt, designed to manipulate Paul emotionallyFaced with betrayal and impossible decisions, Paul must choose between his personal love and the future of humanity.

3. Children of Dune (1976)

Following Paul Atreides' disappearance in the desert, his twin children, Leto II and Ghanima, are placed under the protection of their aunt Alia, who acts as regent of the empire. The twins possess preternatural abilities inherited from their father and mother., including complete ancestral memories.

Alia, corrupted by the abomination of internal genetic memories, is consumed by madness. Various factions, including House Corrino and other conspirators, seek to eliminate the twins to regain control of the empire.

Leto II, realizing the need for strong leadership to prevent the destruction of humanity, decides to undergo a radical transformation that will turn him into something more than humanThis decision seals their fate and sets the path for the "Golden Path," a plan to ensure humanity's long-term survival.

4. God Emperor of Dune (1981)

Thousands of years have passed since the events of "Children of Dune." Leto II Atreides, now fused with the body of a giant sandworm, Rule as the God EmperorHis transformation has granted him an extremely long life and near-omnipotent powers, but at the cost of his humanity.

Under their tyrannical rule, known as the "Stagnant Order", humanity lives in enforced peace and cultural stagnation. Leto II follows his "Golden Path," a plan to guide humanity toward a future where it can survive to any threat of extinction. However, his reign arouses discontent and conspiracies.

A group of rebels, including Siona, A descendant of the Atreides with special abilities, she seeks to overthrow the God Emperor. Leto II must face the ultimate consequences of his plan and sacrifice everything to fulfill his vision of the future.

5. Heretics of Dune (1984)

After the death of Leto II, known as the "Collapse", humanity has entered an era of dispersion, where Millions have left the old empire in search of new worldsThe Bene Gesserit have emerged as one of the major forces in the universe, attempting to maintain the balance of power.

However, new threats arise, such as the Honored Matres, a female order with similar abilities but opposite methods, who have returned from the Scattering with intentions of domination. On the planet Arrakis, now called Rakis, a new type of sandworm has appeared, and with it, a young girl named Sheeana who can control them.

The Bene Gesserit sees in Sheeana an opportunity to regain control of the spice and confront the Honored MatresPolitical, religious and personal intrigues intertwine as the forces at play fight for the future of humanity.

6. Dune Chapter House (1985)

The Bene Gesserit have established their new headquarters at Chapter House, rebuilding their order and planning their strategy against the Honored Matres, who continue to expand their domain with violence and terror. Murbella, a captured Honored Matre who has become a Bene Gesserit, represents the possibility of uniting the two orders.

Meanwhile, Duncan Idaho, the ghola who has been recreated countless times, possesses within him ancient secrets that could be the key to defeating the Honored MatresTensions rise when it is revealed that the Honored Matres are fleeing a threat even greater than themselves.

The story culminates in A confrontation that will redefine the fate of both orders and, potentially, of all humanity.

Prelude to Dune Saga Publication Order

1. Dune: House Atreides (1999)

This novel is the first in a prequel trilogy that explores the events leading up to "Dune." It focuses on the young Leto Atreides, who must assume responsibilities as a duke Following the death of his father, Leto is sent to planets such as Ix and Giedi Prime, where he uncovers the political and economic machinations that threaten the stability of the Empire.

In parallel, the stories of other key characters are explored, such as Baron Vladimir Harkonnen, whose cruelty and ambition lay the groundwork for future conflicts, and Shaddam Corrino, the imperial prince who schemes to secure his accession to the throne. The novel weaves an intricate web of intrigue and alliances that delve into the background of the Dune universe.

2. Dune: House Harkonnen (2000)

The second installment of the trilogy continues to explore the tensions between the great houses. Leto Atreides, now Duke of Caladan, He works to strengthen his house and form alliances, while facing threats from his enemies.Baron Harkonnen escalates his plots to destroy the Atreides, using ruthless tactics and manipulating other key players.

The novel delves into the corruption within the Spacing Guild and the Bene Gesserit, revealing how their secret agendas influence the balance of power. In addition, the training of characters such as Duncan Idaho is shown. and Gurney Halleck, who will become loyal allies of Leto and his family.

3. Dune: Corrino House (2001)

In the conclusion of the prequel trilogy, Emperor Shaddam IV implements a plan to maintain his control over the empire by producing a synthetic spice called amal. However, the project faces unforeseen obstacles that threaten by destabilizing the spice market and the political balance.

Leto Atreides continues to strengthen his house and establishes relations with the Fremen of Arrakis, laying the groundwork for future alliances. Baron Harkonnen, increasingly obsessed with destroying the Atreides, escalates its actions. The plots converge in a series of events that set the stage for the events of "Dune."

Order of publication of the Legends of Dune Saga

1. Dune: The Butlerian Jihad (2002)

Set more than 10,000 years before “Dune”, this novel begins the “Legends of Dune” trilogy that explores the war between humanity and thinking machines. The artificial intelligence Omnius has enslaved humanity, controlling multiple planets with ruthless logic.

Serena Butler, a charismatic leader, and Xavier Harkonnen, a military commander, team up to inspire humans in a mass rebellion known as the Butlerian Jihad. The story follows various characters fighting for freedom, including Vorian Atreides, who turns against the machines.

This epic war establishes the foundations of society and institutions that will be central to the “Dune” universe.

2. Dune: The Machine Crusade (2003)

The Butlerian Jihad continues with ferocity. Humanity faces devastating losses, but also achieves significant victories against the machines. Characters such as Iblis Ginjo, a religious and political leader, and Norma Cenva, a genius working on developing space navigation by folding space, play crucial roles.

Internal tensions threaten to divide the rebels, while the machines, led by Omnius and the independent robot Erasmus, develop more sinister strategies. The novel explores themes of sacrifice, betrayal and struggle for human identity in the face of technological oppression.

3. Dune: The Battle of Corrin (2004)

The culmination of the Butlerian Jihad takes place at the Battle of Corrin, where humanity faces the machines in a final showdown. Vorian Atreides and Abulurd Harkonnen, whose bloodlines will define future generations, play decisive roles in the war.

Victory over the machines leads to the formation of the Corrino Empire and lays the groundwork for the technological bans that characterize the Dune universe. The novel also shows the creation of orders such as the Bene Gesserit, the Mentats and the Space Brotherhood, which emerged as a response to the needs of post-war society.

Publication order of the Dune Chronicles Saga

This part of the story was published after the Legends of Dune saga, but is part of the continuation of the original saga "The Dune Chronicles".

7. Hunters of Dune (2006)

Following the events of "Chapterhouse Dune," the starship Ithaca is traveling the universe with Bene Gesserit refugees, including Duncan Idaho, Sheeana, and others, fleeing from the Honored Matres. Meanwhile, the Honored Matres have consolidated their power and face a new threat.: the mysterious and destructive forces that have haunted them since the Dispersion.

On the ship, Sheeana experiments with creating new sandworms and explores the secrets of the prescient Daniel and Marty. The story delves into ancient mysteries and introduces new dangers that could mean the end of the known universe.

8. Dune Sandworms (2007)

The conclusion of the original saga resumes the plots started in "Hunters of Dune." Duncan Idaho and the refugees on the ship Ithaca They continue to flee as they search for a way to defeat the forces that threaten all of humanity.

The true enemies are revealed to be the Omniscient Entities, evolved versions of the thinking machines led by Omnius and Erasmus. To confront them, the characters must unite the scattered factions. and take advantage of ancient knowledge.

The novel culminates in a final battle where the fate of the universe is decided, and secrets are revealed that change the understanding of the story and the characters.

Other books in the Dune saga (In English)

1. Paul from Dune (2008)

This novel explores the years between "Dune" and "Dune Messiah," focusing on Paul Atreides as he consolidates his position as EmperorPaul faces challenges in governing a vast and diverse empire, dealing with rebellions and daily administration.

Through flashbacks, events from his youth and upbringing are recounted, including conflicts with House Corrino and clashes that shaped his character. The novel delves into Paul's inner doubts about his role as a messianic leader and the consequences of the jihad waged in his name.

2. The Winds of Dune (2009)

Set after "The Messiah of Dune", The novel focuses on Lady Jessica and Gurney Halleck, who deal with Paul's apparent demise and the repercussions on the empire. Jessica returns to Caladan and faces conflicts between her loyalty to the Bene Gesserit and her love for her family.

Gurney Halleck embarks on a mission to uncover the truth about the activities of the Atreides' former enemies. The novel explores themes of loyalty, identity and the consequences of Paul's decisions. in those around him.

3. Dune: The Brotherhood (2012)

This novel delves into the origins of the Bene Gesserit after the Butlerian Jihad. Valya Harkonnen and Raquella Berto-Anirul They are central figures in the formation of the Brotherhood, developing exceptional physical and mental abilities.

The story shows how the Bene Gesserit set their long-term agenda to influence human politics and genetics, including the beginning of the breeding program that will eventually give rise to the Kwisatz HaderachThe internal and external conflicts that shaped the order in its early years are explored.

4. Dune: The Mentats (2014)

Following the ban on thinking machines, humanity needs alternatives to process information and perform complex calculations. Gilbertus Albans, Erasmus apprentice, founds the Mentat School to train humans in exceptional analytical skills.

The novel follows various characters seeking to become Mentats, as well as the political intrigues that threaten the school. It shows how Mentats become an integral part of society., serving the great houses and playing key roles in the balance of power.

5. Dune: The Navigators (2016)

The creation of the Space Guild is the focus of this novel. After discovering how to use the spice to fold space, genius Norma Cenva lays the groundwork for instant interstellar travel.

However, it faces opposition from those who fear change and from forces seeking to control this new technology. The novel explores the technical and ethical challenges of this revolution in space travel., and how the Space Guild comes to have a monopoly on transportation in the known universe.

Caladan Trilogy Release Order (In English)

1. Dune: The Duke of Caladan (2020)

Kicking off a new trilogy, this book focuses on Duke Leto Atreides one year before the events of "Dune." Leto faces political crises when he is called to serve the emperor in a delicate matter, leaving Caladan vulnerable.

Lady Jessica, his concubine and member of the Bene Gesserit, must handle the intrigues in his absence. Meanwhile, fDark forces conspire to weaken House AtreidesThe novel explores Leto's nobility and honor, as well as the decisions that will define the fate of his family and the empire.

2. Dune: The Lady of Caladan (2021)

The story continues with Lady Jessica facing dilemmas between her loyalty to the Bene Gesserit and her love for Leto and her son Paul. Tensions rise when secrets about their original mission are revealed. and the expectations of the Brotherhood.

Leto must navigate a web of political betrayals while trying to protect his family and his home. The novel delves deeper into the relationship between Jessica and Leto, and how their actions will impact events to come.

3. Dune: The Heir of Caladan (2022)

Concluding the Caladan trilogy, Duke Leto, Lady Jessica, and Paul face looming threats that will test their unity and strength. The conspiracies of the other noble houses and the manipulations of the emperor Shaddam IV reaches a critical point.

Paul begins to show glimpses of his unique potential, which attracts the attention of various factions. The novel sets the stage directly for the events of "Dune," showing how the decisions and sacrifices of the Atreides family trigger a series of events that will change the universe forever.

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Dune Saga reading order according to the chronology of the story

1. Dune: The Butlerian Jihad
2. Dune: The Machine Crusade
3. Dune: The Battle of Corrin
4. Dune: The Brotherhood
5. Dune: The Mentats
6. Dune: The Navigators
7. Dune: House Atreides
8. Dune: House Harkonnen
9. Dune: Corrino House
10. Dune: The Duke of Caladan
11. Dune: The Lady of Caladan
12. Dune: The Heir of Caladan
13. Dune
14. Paul from Dune
15. The Messiah of Dune
16. The Winds of Dune
17. Children of Dune
18. God Emperor of Dune
19. Heretics of Dune
20. Dune Chapter House
21. Hunters of Dune
22. Dune Sandworms

In short, if you are a lover of Science fiction and you are intrigued by universes full of complexity, Dune It's a series you can't miss. We hope this Dune Book Reading Order help you enjoy this epic story to the fullest. Get ready to enter the sands of Arrakis and discover the power of spice!