The Expanse Book Order

The Expanse is an acclaimed science fiction series written by James S.A. Corey, the pseudonym of authors Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck. The saga consists of nine main novels and several short stories that expand and enrich its universe.

Set in a future where humanity has colonized much of the Solar System, the series addresses themes such as interstellar politics, military intrigue and the discovery of alien technologies.

One of the most notable curiosities is that the series was adapted to television, gaining a wide fan base and receiving praise for its faithfulness to the original material. Below is the recommended reading order to dive into this fascinating universe.

List of books The Expanse main characters

1. The awakening of the Leviathan (2011)

In this first installment, humanity has colonized the Solar System, but the stars are still out of reach. Jim Holden, an officer on an ice transport, discovers an abandoned ship that contains a secret that many would kill for. Meanwhile, Detective Miller searches for a missing young girl, and his investigations lead him to cross paths with Holden. Together, they will try to unravel a conspiracy that threatens to unleash an interstellar war.

2. Caliban's War (2012)

Following the events of the first book in The Expanse, Jupiter's moon Ganymede becomes a battlefield. A Martian Marine witnesses the annihilation of her platoon by an unknown creature. Meanwhile, on Earth, a politician attempts to prevent an impending war between the inner planets. The alien protomolecule on Venus begins to exhibit mysterious changes that could have catastrophic consequences.

3. Abaddon's Gate (2013)

An alien artifact has formed a massive gate in the orbit of Uranus, opening a portal to unknown space. Holden and the crew of the Rocinante, along with a fleet of ships, set out to investigate. However, a web of espionage and betrayal jeopardizes their mission, and a new threat emerges from within.

4. The burning of Cibola (2014)

With the opening of the gates to thousands of new worlds, humanity begins an era of colonization. Ilo, the first colony, becomes a flashpoint between colonists and a corporation seeking to exploit the planet. Holden and his team are sent to mediate, but they soon discover that the mission is more dangerous than it seemed.

5. The Nemesis Games (2015)

As the Rocinante's crew disperses to attend to personal matters, a conspiracy threatens the stability of the solar system. Natural disasters and terrorist attacks threaten humanity, and old enemies re-emerge with new alliances. Each crew member must confront their own demons as they try to reunite and save what's left of their world.

6. The Ashes of Babylon (2016)

War has broken out across the Solar System. Earth is devastated, Mars is in chaos, and the Belt is fighting for its survival. Holden and his team must navigate treacherous alliances and confront powerful enemies to protect those they love and find a path to peace.

7. The Persepolis Uprising (2017)

Decades have passed since the previous events. A new power emerges from the far reaches of space, equipped with advanced technology and a unifying vision for humanity. The crew of the Rocinante is faced with challenges they never imagined, questioning their loyalties and the future of human civilization.

8. The Wrath of Tiamat (2019)

The new regime dominates the Solar System, but resistance persists. While Holden is held prisoner, the rest of the crew undertake dangerous missions to weaken the enemy. Discoveries about ancient alien civilizations and their technologies could change the course of the war and the fate of humanity.

9. The Fall of Leviathan (2021)

The final confrontation is underway. Long-buried secrets are brought to light, and the crew of the Rocinante must face unimaginable sacrifices. The fate of humanity hangs in the balance as they confront forces beyond human understanding.

10. Memory's Legion (2023)

This latest installment of The Expanse saga adds, in addition to a new novel, all the complementary stories of the story, which will help you better understand and delve deeper into the universe of this wonderful collection.

Short stories and companion novels

In addition to the main novels, The Expanse includes several short stories and novellas that provide additional context and delve into secondary characters and important events. Although they are not essential to following the main plot, they enrich the reading experience. Some of the most notable titles are:

• The Butcher of Anderson Station (2011): Relates the events that led to Fred Johnson becoming leader of the OPA.
• Gods of Risk (2012): A short story that addresses political and family tensions on Mars.
• Drive (2012): Details the origins of the Epstein Engine, a revolutionary technology in the universe of The Expanse.
• The Churn (2014): A prequel centered on Amos Burton, exploring his dark past on Earth.
• Strange Dogs (2017): A disturbing story set in Laconia, offering clues to the developments of the later novels.
• Auberon (2019): Describes the challenges of government in one of the newly colonized worlds.

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I highly recommend The Expanse universe.

The Expanse It is an essential saga for lovers of the Science fiction. With its combination of political intrigue, space exploration and fast-paced action, has captivated both readers and viewers.

If you're looking for a series that will transport you into a complex and fascinating universe, these books are a great choice. Be sure to read the main Expanse novels in order, and if you want to go deeper, don't miss the short stories that expand on this vast universe. Get ready for an unforgettable journey among the stars!