As a devoted fan of science fiction, the Dune series by Frank Herbert has always been a standout favorite. To help fellow enthusiasts, I've compiled a chronological list of all the Dune novels and short stories. This guide will ensure you know the best order to experience the epic saga.
From the original series to the expanded universe, you can explore every corner of the Dune universe. Check out the complete list below!
Dune Novels and Short Stories in Chronological Order
The Dune Universe series, created by Frank Herbert, is a monumental science fiction saga that explores themes of politics, religion, and ecology. Set in a distant future, it chronicles the rise and fall of empires, the complexities of human nature, and the struggle for control of the desert planet Arrakis, home to the valuable spice melange. The series includes the original novels by Herbert and expanded works by his son, Brian Herbert, and Kevin J. Anderson, offering a rich and immersive journey through one of the most influential sci-fi universes.
Hunting Harkonnens (Legends of Dune, #0.5)
- Book title: Hunting Harkonnens
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2002
- Goodreads Rating: 3.66/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Set before the events of the Prelude to Dune series, this short story follows the escape of a young Harkonnen family member, Piers Harkonnen, as he is hunted by enemies. It provides insight into the Harkonnen lineage and their ruthless nature.
The Butlerian Jihad (Legends of Dune, #1)
- Book title: The Butlerian Jihad
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2002
- Goodreads Rating: 3.95/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Set 10,000 years before Dune, this book chronicles the epic war between humans and thinking machines. The Butlerian Jihad is a pivotal event that leads to the creation of the Great Schools and the foundational institutions of the Dune universe.
Whipping Mek (Legends of Dune, #1.5)
- Book title: Whipping Mek
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2003
- Goodreads Rating: 3.71/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
This short story is set during the Butlerian Jihad. It follows a group of human rebels who capture a thinking machine, known as a mek. The story explores the brutal tactics used in the fight against the machines and the psychological impact on those involved.
The Machine Crusade (Legends of Dune, #2)
- Book title: The Machine Crusade
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2003
- Goodreads Rating: 3.80/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
The second book in the Legends series continues the story of the Butlerian Jihad. It focuses on key battles, the rise of significant characters, and the establishment of new orders in the fight against the machines.
The Faces of a Martyr (Legends of Dune, #2.5)
- Book title: The Faces of a Martyr
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2004
- Goodreads Rating: 3.64/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Set between Dune: The Battle of Corrin and Sisterhood of Dune, this short story focuses on the aftermath of the Butlerian Jihad. It delves into the political and religious ramifications of the war and the rise of the martyr cults.
The Battle of Corrin (Legends of Dune, #3)
- Book title: The Battle of Corrin
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2004
- Goodreads Rating: 3.79/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
The final installment of the Legends series concludes the Butlerian Jihad. It details the decisive battle at Corrin, which results in the defeat of the thinking machines and the formation of the political and social structures seen in the original Dune series.
Sisterhood of Dune (Schools of Dune, #1)
- Book title: Sisterhood of Dune
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2012
- Goodreads Rating: 3.89/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
This series explores the formation and early years of the Bene Gesserit, Mentats, and other key institutions. It reveals the origins of these powerful groups and their influence on the Dune universe.
Mentats of Dune (Schools of Dune, #2)
- Book title: Mentats of Dune
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2014
- Goodreads Rating: 3.94/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Continuing the Great Schools series, this book focuses on the development of the Mentats and their role in shaping the future. It highlights the interplay between different factions and their impact on the universe.
Dune: Red Plague (Schools of Dune, #2.5)
- Book title: Dune: Red Plague
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2016
- Goodreads Rating: 3.49/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
This short story is set in the aftermath of Chapterhouse: Dune. It explores a deadly plague that threatens the universe and the efforts to find a cure. The story ties into the broader themes of survival and adaptation within the Dune universe.
Navigators of Dune (Schools of Dune, #3)
- Book title: Navigators of Dune
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2016
- Goodreads Rating: 3.94/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
The final book in the Great Schools series explores the creation of the Spacing Guild and its Navigators. It delves into the critical role they play in space travel and commerce, and their influence on the unfolding events in the Dune universe.
House Atreides (Prelude to Dune, #1)
- Book title: House Atreides
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 1999
- Goodreads Rating: 3.81/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
This prequel explores the early lives of key characters, including Duke Leto Atreides, Baron Vladimir Harkonnen, and Shaddam Corrino IV. It delves into their backgrounds, motivations, and the events that set the stage for the original Dune series.
House Harkonnen (Prelude to Dune, #2)
- Book title: House Harkonnen
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2000
- Goodreads Rating: 3.74/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Continuing the Prelude trilogy, this book focuses on the intrigues and conflicts among the major houses. It reveals the dark machinations of House Harkonnen and the political maneuvers that shape the future of the universe.
House Corrino (Prelude to Dune, #3)
- Book title: House Corrino
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2001
- Goodreads Rating: 3.75/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
The final book in the Prelude trilogy details Emperor Shaddam Corrino IV's reign and the events leading up to the original Dune novel. It explores the political landscape and the rise of House Atreides.
Dune: The Duke of Caladan (The Caladan Trilogy, #1)
- Book title: Dune: The Duke of Caladan
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2020
- Goodreads Rating: 3.87/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
This trilogy explores the life of Duke Leto Atreides before the events of Dune. It focuses on his rise to power, his stewardship of Caladan, and his relationships with key characters.
Dune: The Lady of Caladan (The Caladan Trilogy, #2)
- Book title: Dune: The Lady of Caladan
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2021
- Goodreads Rating: 3.97/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
The second book centers on Lady Jessica, her role within the Bene Gesserit, and her relationship with Duke Leto. It provides insights into her character and motivations.
Dune: The Heir of Caladan (The Caladan Trilogy, #3)
- Book title: Dune: The Heir of Caladan
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2022
- Goodreads Rating: 3.99/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
The trilogy concludes with the story of the Atreides family as they face new challenges. It sets the stage for the events of Dune, highlighting their struggles and triumphs.
Princess of Dune
- Book title: Princess of Dune
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2023
- Goodreads Rating: 3.92/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
This short story serves as a prequel to the Caladan Trilogy. It focuses on Princess Irulan, her upbringing, and her early interactions with the Atreides family. The story provides background on her motivations and the political landscape she navigates.
Dune (Dune, #1)
- Book title: Dune
- Author: Frank Herbert
- Year Published: 1965
- Goodreads Rating: 4.27/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
The story begins on the desert planet Arrakis, also known as Dune, where the valuable spice melange is produced. Paul Atreides, the young heir of House Atreides, is thrust into a world of political intrigue and prophecy. As his family is betrayed, Paul must embrace his destiny as the Kwisatz Haderach to lead a rebellion and control the spice.
Paul of Dune (Heroes of Dune, #1)
- Book title: Paul of Dune
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2008
- Goodreads Rating: 3.73/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
This novel bridges the gap between Dune and Dune Messiah, focusing on Paul Atreides' early reign. It explores his challenges as Emperor and the conflicts that arise from his transformative rule.
Dune Messiah (Dune, #2)
- Book title: Dune Messiah
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 1969
- Goodreads Rating: 3.89/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Set twelve years after the events of Dune, Paul Atreides is now the Emperor. He faces the consequences of his jihad, which has swept across the universe. Political conspiracies and personal betrayals challenge his rule, and Paul must navigate these threats while dealing with visions that foretell his downfall.
The Winds of Dune (Heroes of Dune, #2)
- Book title: The Winds of Dune
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2009
- Goodreads Rating: 3.79/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Part of the Heroes of Dune series, this novel is set between Dune Messiah and Children of Dune. It follows Lady Jessica and Gurney Halleck as they deal with the repercussions of Paul Atreides' disappearance. The book delves into the political and personal aftermath of Paul's decisions and the impact on his family and allies.
Children of Dune (Dune, #3)
- Book title: Children of Dune
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 1976
- Goodreads Rating: 3.96/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Paul's twin children, Leto II and Ghanima, are the new hope for the Atreides dynasty. As political factions vie for control, the twins must protect their family's legacy and the future of Arrakis. Leto begins to realize his unique destiny, which involves transforming himself and the planet.
God Emperor of Dune (Dune #4)
- Book title: God Emperor of Dune
- Author: Frank Herbert
- Year Published: 1981
- Goodreads Rating: 3.88/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Leto II has transformed into a human-sandworm hybrid and has ruled the universe for thousands of years. His reign, known as the Golden Path, is designed to ensure humanity's survival. Leto's rule is absolute, but he faces growing dissent and must confront the limits of his power.
Heretics of Dune (Dune, #5)
- Book title: Heretics of Dune
- Author: Frank Herbert
- Year Published: 1984
- Goodreads Rating: 3.87/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Set 1,500 years after Leto II's death, the universe is in turmoil. The Bene Gesserit, the Tleilaxu, and the Honored Matres vie for dominance. New characters emerge, and old powers resurface as the struggle for control continues. The story focuses on the Bene Gesserit's efforts to navigate these changing dynamics.
Chapterhouse: Dune (Dune #6)
- Book title: Chapterhouse: Dune
- Author: Frank Herbert
- Year Published: 1985
- Goodreads Rating: 3.89/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
The Bene Gesserit are on the brink of extinction as they battle the Honored Matres. The planet Chapterhouse is being transformed into a new Dune. The Bene Gesserit must make critical decisions to ensure their survival and adapt to the changing universe.
Hunters of Dune (Dune, #7)
- Book title: Hunters of Dune
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2006
- Goodreads Rating: 3.69/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
Co-authored by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, this novel picks up the story after Chapterhouse: Dune. The Bene Gesserit continue their struggle against the Honored Matres while uncovering secrets about the mysterious Enemy. The book sets the stage for the conclusion of the Dune saga.
Sandworms of Dune (Dune, #8)
- Book title: Sandworms of Dune
- Author: Brian Herbert
- Year Published: 2007
- Goodreads Rating: 3.69/5
- Availability: Buy the eBook from Amazon
The direct sequel to Hunters of Dune, this novel concludes the storylines left unfinished by Frank Herbert. The characters face the ultimate battle against the Enemy, and the mysteries of the Dune universe are finally resolved. The book brings closure to the epic saga with the return of familiar characters and the resolution of long-standing conflicts.
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