Since Frank Herbert first unleashed the epic saga of *Dune* in 1965, readers have been captivated by the intricate and sprawling political landscapes he created. Originally, Herbert authored six novels in the series, but following his passing, his son Brian Herbert and acclaimed author Kevin J. Anderson have expanded the universe significantly. Today, the series boasts an impressive total of 23 novels, covering a vast timeline spanning 15,000 years. For newcomers and seasoned fans alike, navigating the order of these books can be daunting, but fear not—we're here to guide you through the entire *Dune* book timeline.

With *Dune: Messiah* on the horizon, there's no better time to immerse yourself in the novels that ignited this iconic franchise. Below, we've laid out the complete *Dune* book timeline to help you decide where to begin your journey.

How Many Dune Books Are There?

The *Dune* franchise now includes a total of 23 books. However, only 6 of these were penned by Frank Herbert himself. The rest, though authored by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, are considered canon and fit into the expansive *Dune* timeline.

Includes 6 Books: Frank Herbert Dune Box Set

See hardcover options as well. $108.00 save 31% $74.97 at Amazon

How to Read the Original Series in Order

To start with the core of the *Dune* saga, follow this sequence:

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

All Dune Books: Chronological Reading Order

Note: The following summaries contain spoilers for the *Dune* book series.

The Butlerian Jihad by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$9.99 save 0% $9.99 at Amazon

Though written decades after the original *Dune*, this prequel by Herbert and Anderson sets the stage for the series, taking place 10,000 years before Frank Herbert's first novel. It introduces the universe's feudal and technologically-limited setting and chronicles the start of a devastating war between humans and the AI they created.

The Machine Crusade by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$9.99 save 25% $7.48 at Amazon

The second in the trilogy, this book introduces key characters from the lineages of House Atreides and House Harkonnen. As the war against the sentient computer overlord Omnius escalates, readers delve deeper into the universe's lore and the foundations of the epic conflict.

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

$9.99 save 0% $9.99 at Amazon

Set 100 years after *The Butlerian Jihad*, this novel showcases the intensifying war as Omnius nears universal domination. It introduces pivotal elements of the *Dune* universe, including the battle-ready Fremen that Paul encounters in the original *Dune*.

Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$11.99 See it at Amazon

The first book in the "Schools of Dune" trilogy, it jumps forward 83 years and examines the universe's evolution without thinking machines. It follows diverse characters navigating the galaxy and highlights the growing Butlerian movement and its violent repercussions.

Mentats of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$9.99 save 5% $9.49 at Amazon

With the thinking machines nearly eradicated, this book introduces the Mentats, humans trained to replace the lost technology. It also follows the establishment of other schools and a young woman's quest for vengeance that threatens the universe's stability.

Navigators of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$9.99 save 6% $9.41 at Amazon

The final book in the "Schools of Dune" trilogy focuses on the rise of anti-technology factions inspired by the Butlerian Jihad. It explores the struggle between reason and fanaticism as the universe teeters on the brink.

House Atreides by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$9.99 save 25% $7.49 at Amazon

Set 35 years before the original *Dune*, this novel introduces key characters like Leto Atreides and Duncan Idaho. It sets the stage for the political machinations that will shape the universe.

House Harkonnen by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$9.99 save 0% $9.99 at Amazon

Continuing the "Prelude to Dune" 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.

House Corrino by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$14.21 save 0% $14.21 at Amazon

The concluding novel of the "Prelude to Dune" trilogy centers on Leto, Jessica, and the impending birth of their son Paul. It builds the tension leading to the events of *Dune*.

Princess of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$28.99 save 0% $28.99 at Amazon

This companion novel focuses on the lives of Irulan and Chani, the women in Paul Atreides' life, offering a deeper understanding of their roles and impact on his journey.

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

$27.99 save 27% $20.49 at Amazon

The first in the "Caladan" trilogy, this book follows Leto Atreides' rise to power and sets the stage for the events that will lead to his downfall.

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

$28.99 save 45% $15.99 at Amazon

This novel explores Lady Jessica's betrayal of the Bene Gesserit and its far-reaching consequences, as she navigates the challenges of her choices and their impact on the universe.

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

$19.99 save 0% $19.99 at Amazon

The final book in the "Caladan" trilogy focuses on Paul Atreides' journey to self-discovery and leadership, culminating in the events that lead to the original *Dune*.

Frank Herbert's Dune

$10.99 save 10% $9.89 at Amazon

The cornerstone of the series, *Dune* introduces the Atreides family's quest to control the spice trade on Arrakis. It's a dense and essential read that sets the stage for the entire saga.

Paul of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$10.99 save 0% $10.99 at Amazon

Serving as both a prequel and sequel to *Dune*, this novel explores Paul Atreides' life before and after the events of the original book, providing additional context and character development.

Frank Herbert's Dune Messiah

$9.99 save 10% $8.99 at Amazon

Set a decade after *Dune*, this book follows Paul as Emperor, grappling with the consequences of his actions and attempting to alter his foreseen future.

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

$13.99 save 21% $10.99 at Amazon

Set between *Dune Messiah* and *Children of Dune*, this novel catches up with key characters like Jessica and Alia, adding depth to the universe and bridging the gap between the original novels.

Frank Herbert's Children of Dune

$9.99 save 10% $8.99 at Amazon

This third book in the series follows Paul's children, Leto and Ghanima, as they navigate their father's legacy and the changing landscape of Arrakis.

Frank Herbert's God Emperor of Dune

$9.99 save 10% $8.99 at Amazon

Set 3500 years after *Children of Dune*, this novel explores Leto II's rule over the universe after merging with a sandworm, examining his impact and the lengths he goes to maintain control.

Frank Herbert's Heretics of Dune

$9.99 save 0% $9.99 at Amazon

Set 1500 years after *God Emperor of Dune*, this book follows the resurgence of humanity and the power struggles among new civilizations, including the Bene Gesserit.

Frank Herbert's Chapterhouse: Dune

The final book written by Frank Herbert ends on a cliffhanger as the Bene Gesserit face off against the Honored Matres in a battle for survival.

Hunters of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$10.99 save 14% $9.49 at Amazon

The first of a duology based on Frank Herbert's notes for a seventh book, it follows the aftermath of the war between the Bene Gesserit and the Honored Matres and the return of human descendants scattered by Leto II.

Sandworms of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson

$10.99 save 10% $9.89 at Amazon

The concluding novel of the series, it ties together the various threads of the *Dune* saga with clones, returns, and a climactic battle that resolves the overarching narrative.

Will There Be More Dune?

$54.99 save 18% $44.99 at Amazon

While Brian Herbert may continue to expand the *Dune* universe with more novels, the success of the *Dune* and *Dune: Part Two* films ensures that the franchise will live on in other media. *Dune: Prophecy*, a series exploring the origins of the Bene Gesserit, is currently streaming on Max, potentially drawing from "Sisterhood of Dune". Meanwhile, Denis Villeneuve is set to direct a third film, adapting *Dune Messiah*, expected in late 2026. Additionally, the video game *Dune: Awakening*, an open-world survival MMO, is slated for release in early 2025 on PC, with console dates to be announced.