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"Dune Books: Chronological Reading Guide"

Author:Kristen Update:Apr 04,2025

Since Frank Herbert first captivated readers with his groundbreaking sci-fi novel *Dune* in 1965, the universe of political intrigue and complex world-building has continued to expand. Herbert himself contributed six novels to the series during his lifetime, but since his passing, his son Brian Herbert and co-author Kevin J. Anderson have significantly expanded the *Dune* universe. The series now boasts an impressive total of 23 novels, covering a vast timeline of 15,000 years. If you're eager to explore this expansive saga, especially with *Dune: Messiah* on the horizon, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the *Dune* book timeline.

How Many Dune Books Are There?

The Dune franchise currently encompasses 23 books, with the original six penned by Frank Herbert himself. The rest, while considered canon, have been authored by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, adding depth and breadth to the Dune universe.

### 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

To experience the core narrative as envisioned by Frank Herbert, start with these six novels in the following order:

  • Dune
  • Dune Messiah
  • Children of Dune
  • God Emperor of Dune
  • Heretics of Dune
  • Chapterhouse: Dune

All Dune Books: Chronological Reading Order

Warning: Each of the blurbs in this piece contains 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

9$9.99 save 0%$9.99 at AmazonThis prequel, the first in a trilogy, sets the stage for the Dune universe by exploring the origins of the Butlerian Jihad, a war against artificial intelligence and robotics that takes place 10,000 years before the events of the original Dune. It lays the groundwork for the feudal, technology-averse society that defines the series.

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### 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 Dune universe, including ancestors of House Atreides and House Harkonnen, as the war against the sentient computer overlord Omnius continues. This novel deepens the lore and sets the stage for the final confrontation.

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

### Dune: The Battle of Corrin

5$9.99 save 0%$9.99 at AmazonSet a century after the start of the Butlerian Jihad, this book chronicles the climax of the war and the establishment of the universe's status quo as seen in the original Dune. It introduces the battle-ready Fremen, pivotal to Paul Atreides' journey.

Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Sisterhood of Dune

6$11.99 See it at AmazonThis novel, part of the "Schools of Dune" trilogy, jumps forward 83 years and explores the universe's adjustment to life without "thinking machines." It delves into the rise of the Butlerian movement and the ensuing violence across the galaxy.

Mentats of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Mentats of Dune

5$9.99 save 5%$9.49 at AmazonAs the thinking machines are nearly eradicated, this book focuses on the establishment of schools to train Mentats, humans with exceptional intelligence. It also introduces a vengeful young woman within the sisterhood, whose actions threaten the universe's stability.

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 "Schools of Dune" trilogy examines the growing threat of anti-technology forces inspired by the Butlerian Jihad. It questions whether reason can prevail against the rising tide of fanaticism.

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 novel introduces major characters and sets the stage for the political machinations that lead to the events of the first book. It's a crucial piece of the puzzle for understanding the Dune saga.

House Harkonnen by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### House Harkonnen

1$9.99 save 0%$9.99 at AmazonContinuing the Prelude trilogy, this book delves deeper into the power struggles between Houses Harkonnen and Atreides, and the Bene Gesserit's plans to create the Kwisatz Haderach through Leto and Jessica.

House Corrino by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### House Corrino

2$14.21 save 0%$14.21 at AmazonThe final book in the Prelude trilogy focuses on Leto, Jessica, and the impending birth of Paul Atreides. It sets the stage for the events of the original Dune and the Bene Gesserit's anticipation of their chosen one.

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, providing a deeper understanding of their roles and influences.

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 focuses 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 explores Lady Jessica's life after betraying the Bene Gesserit, and how her choices shape 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 follows 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 novel that started it all, Dune introduces readers to the Atreides family and their quest to control the spice trade on Arrakis. It's a dense, essential read for understanding the Dune universe.

Paul of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Paul of Dune

2$10.99 save 0%$10.99 at AmazonThis novel serves as both a prequel and sequel to Dune, exploring Paul Atreides' life before and after the events of the original book.

Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah

### Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah

1$9.99 save 10%$8.99 at AmazonSet a decade after Dune, this book follows Paul Atreides as he grapples with the consequences of his rule and the unintended jihad he has inspired.

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 book follows the adventures of Jessica, Alia, and Duncan Idaho, adding depth to the original narrative.

Frank Herbert's Children of Dune

### Children of Dune

2$9.99 save 10%$8.99 at AmazonThis novel explores the ecological and political changes on Arrakis and the challenges faced by Paul's children, Leto and Ghanima, as they navigate their father's legacy.

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 book follows Leto II, who has merged with a sandworm and rules the universe with an iron fist.

Frank Herbert's Heretics of Dune

### Frank Herbert's Heretics of Dune

0$9.99 save 0%$9.99 at AmazonSet 1500 years after the death of Leto II, this novel explores the resurgence of humanity and the power struggles among new civilizations, including the Bene Gesserit.

Frank Herbert's Chapterhouse: Dune

Frank Herbert's final book in the series ends on a cliffhanger, with the Bene Gesserit embroiled in a war against the Honored Matres. Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson later continued the story.

Hunters of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

### Hunters of Dune

1$10.99 save 14%$9.49 at AmazonThe first book in a duology based on Frank Herbert's notes for Dune 7, this novel 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

1$10.99 save 10%$9.89 at AmazonThe concluding book of the duology ties together the many threads of the Dune series, featuring clones, shocking returns, and a climactic battle.

Will There Be More Dune?

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

0$54.99 save 18%$44.99 at AmazonWhile Brian Herbert may continue to expand the Dune universe with more novels, the success of the Dune and Dune Part 2 films ensures that the franchise will remain active on screen. Dune: Prophecy, an HBO series exploring the origins of the Bene Gesserit, is now streaming on Max and may draw inspiration from "Sisterhood of Dune." Additionally, Denis Villeneuve is set to direct a third film, an adaptation of Dune Messiah, expected in late 2026. Meanwhile, a new video game, Dune: Awakening, an open-world survival MMO, is slated for release in early 2025 on PC, with console dates to be announced.

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