Reading Dune Books: Chronological Order Guide

Ever since Frank Herbert released his groundbreaking sci-fi novel, Dune, in 1965, readers have been captivated by the intricate and expansive political machinations of his influential universe. While Herbert authored six novels during his lifetime, his legacy has been continued by his son, Brian Herbert, and co-author Kevin J. Anderson, who have expanded the series to an impressive total of 23 novels, covering a timeline spanning 15,000 years. If you're eager to explore this epic saga but unsure where to start, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Dune book series.

With Dune: Messiah on the horizon, now is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the novels that set the stage for this iconic universe. Below, we've outlined the entire Dune book timeline to assist you in planning your reading journey. Tackling the Dune books in order can be a bit challenging, but we're here to make it easier for you.

How Many Dune Books Are There?

There are currently 23 books in the Dune franchise. Of these, only six were penned by Frank Herbert himself. The rest, though considered canon, were written by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, who have enriched the series with prequels, sequels, and additional stories.

Includes 6 Books Frank Herbert Dune Box Set

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How to Read the Original Series in Order

To experience the core story as Frank Herbert envisioned it, start with these six novels:

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 blurbs contain spoilers for the Dune book series.

The Butlerian Jihad by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

The Butlerian Jihad by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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This prequel, the first in a trilogy, is set approximately 10,000 years before the events of the original Dune. It explores the origins of the feudal, technology-restricted world of the series, detailing the brutal war between humanity and the artificial intelligence and robotics they created.

The Machine Crusade by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

The Machine Crusade by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

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The second book in the trilogy introduces key figures and ancestors of Houses Atreides and Harkonnen. It delves deeper into the ongoing war against the sentient computer overlord, Ominus, and sets the stage for a monumental final confrontation.

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

Dune: The Battle of Corrin

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Set 100 years after the start of The Butlerian Jihad, this novel marks the climax of the war, introducing the battle-hardened Fremen that Paul Atreides will later encounter in Dune.

Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Sisterhood of Dune

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Part of the "Schools of Dune" trilogy, this novel takes place 83 years after The Battle of Corrin. It explores a world without "thinking machines" and the rise of the Butlerian movement.

Mentats of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Mentats of Dune

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This novel details the establishment of schools to train Mentats—humans with supreme intelligence—to replace the destroyed machines. It also introduces new academies and the rise of the Butlerian fanatics.

Navigators of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Navigators of Dune

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The final book in the "Schools of Dune" trilogy focuses on the growing threat of anti-technology forces inspired by the Butlerian Jihad, examining the struggle between reason and fanaticism.

House Atreides by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

House Atreides

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The first book in the "Prelude to Dune" trilogy, set 35 years before the original Dune, introduces major characters and sets the stage for the political intrigue that will unfold.

House Harkonnen by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

House Harkonnen

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Continuing the "Prelude to Dune" trilogy, this novel explores the power struggles between Houses Atreides and Harkonnen and the Bene Gesserit's plans for the Kwisatz Haderach.

House Corrino by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

House Corrino

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The final book in the "Prelude to Dune" trilogy centers on Leto, Jessica, and their unborn 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

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This companion novel explores the lives of Irulan and Chani, the two women central to Paul Atreides' life, offering a deeper understanding of their roles and influences.

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

The Duke of Caladan

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The first book in the "Caladan" trilogy focuses on Leto Atreides and his rise to power, detailing the political landscape that shapes his destiny.

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

The Lady of Caladan

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This novel examines Lady Jessica's betrayal of the Bene Gesserit and the consequences that follow, exploring her struggle and resilience.

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

The Heir of Caladan

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The 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

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The seminal novel that started it all, Dune introduces readers to the world of Arrakis and the intricate politics surrounding the Spice trade.

Paul of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Paul of Dune

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This novel serves as both a prequel and sequel to Dune, offering insights into Paul Atreides' life before and after the events of the original novel.

Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah

Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah

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Set a decade after Dune, this novel follows Paul Atreides as he grapples with his role as Emperor and the unintended consequences of his actions.

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

The Winds of Dune

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This book bridges the gap between Dune Messiah and Children of Dune, focusing on the aftermath of Paul's disappearance and the struggles of his family.

Frank Herbert's Children of Dune

Children of Dune

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In this novel, the ecological and political landscape of Arrakis evolves, as Paul's children, Leto and Ghanima, confront their destinies and the legacy of their father.

Frank Herbert's God Emperor of Dune

Frank Herbert's God Emperor of Dune

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Set 3,500 years after Children of Dune, this novel follows Leto II, who has transformed into a hybrid with a sandworm, and his iron-fisted rule over the universe.

Frank Herbert's Heretics of Dune

Frank Herbert's Heretics of Dune

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Taking place 1,500 years after the death of Leto II, this novel explores the resurgence of humanity and the power struggles among new civilizations.

Frank Herbert's Chapterhouse: Dune

Frank Herbert's final novel in the series ends on a cliffhanger, depicting the Bene Gesserit's battle against the Honored Matres and leaving many questions unanswered.

Hunters of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Hunters of Dune

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The first part of a duology based on Frank Herbert's notes for Dune 7, this novel continues the story from Chapterhouse: Dune and explores the aftermath of the war between the Bene Gesserit and the Honored Matres.

Sandworms of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

Sandworms of Dune

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The final novel in the series, this book ties together the many threads of the Dune saga, featuring clones, shocking returns, and a climactic battle.

Will There Be More Dune?

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Brian Herbert may continue to expand the Dune universe with new novels. Meanwhile, the success of the Dune and Dune: Part Two films ensures that the saga will continue on screen. Dune: Prophecy, a series exploring the origins of the Bene Gesserit, is now streaming on Max. Additionally, Denis Villeneuve is set to direct a third and possibly final film, adapting Dune Messiah, slated for a late 2026 release. Fans can also look forward to Dune: Awakening, an open-world survival MMO video game set to launch in early 2025 on PC, with console releases to follow.