Publishers Weekly
08/31/2020
Herbert and Anderson’s tepid 15th foray into the universe of Herbert’s father’s Dune novels (after Tales of Dune) adds little to the original series’ mix of action, politics, magic, and religion. Duke Leto Atreides, whose son, Paul, here just 14, is the fulcrum of the original Dune trilogy, is attending the inauguration of a new museum built by Emperor Shaddam IV when he notices someone lurking suspiciously in the vicinity of the emperor. Leto sounds the alarm, enabling Shaddam to get off-planet before the museum complex is destroyed by explosives launched from orbit. The subsequent hunt for the terrorist overlaps with Leto’s own search for answers after he’s accused of being involved in distributing a deadly drug. Meanwhile, teenage Paul undergoes rigorous physical training, alongside a handful of characters who will be familiar to followers of the series. Despite some nice touches, such as the elecrans, sea creatures that move like living lightning, this prequel is largely uninspired. The passable prose and lackluster plot will limit this one’s appeal to diehard fans only. (Oct.)
From the Publisher
This is a fast-paced, fun read, and it’s sure to help with the pangs of missing out on the film this year.” —Big Shiny Robot
“Dune: The Duke of Caladan is the first of a trilogy set just before Dune, and is a great entry in the series, perfect to read just before tackling a reread of the main cycle.” —Grimdark Magazine
“Characters and plot are thus beautifully set up, the timing is precise...the universe...is so vast, complex and fascinating that the magic lingers.” —Kirkus Reviews on Sisterhood of Dune
“Delivers solid action and will certainly satisfy.” —Booklist on The Winds of Dune
“Fans of the original Dune series will love seeing familiar characters, and the narrative voice smoothly evokes the elder Herbert's style.” —Publishers Weekly on The Winds of Dune
“This sequel to Paul of Dune is an important addition to the Dune chronology and will be in demand by Herbert fans.” —Library Journal, starred review on The Winds of Dune
Library Journal
12/04/2020
This first book of a projected trilogy attempts to shift the focus of the classic Dune from Paul Atreides to his father, Leto, Duke of Caladan. This is done by detailing Leto—and Paul's—final year on their home planet Caladan and showing the circumstances that led to the family's exile on Arrakis, to Leto's assassination, and to Paul's transformation into Maud'dib, the leader of the Fremen Rebellion. Unlike the classic that is both its forebearer and its successor, this is a story that gets deep into the weeds of political chicanery, corporate greed, and ruthless ambition. It also has a difficult time sustaining dramatic tension as the reader already knows the fate of the characters less than one year in their future, making the narrative illuminating but not nearly as compelling as the classic. VERDICT Recommended for readers who feel compelled to complete their knowledge of this world, fans who want to know everything there is to know before the next movie version, and libraries where previous continuations of this series have proven popular.—Marlene Harris, Reading Reality, LLC, Duluth, GA
DECEMBER 2020 - AudioFile
Scott Brick narrates a prequel to the Dune series centered on House Atreides one year before the events of the original book. Primarily aimed at die-hard fans, the story incorporates the political maneuvering, thundering action, and unusual magic that are the hallmarks of the series. Brick's narration struggles to elevate the uneven prose but injects a precise intensity. Characters are imbued with heroic voices, delivering colorful cadences that catch the ear. Scenes are masterfully undergirded by mounting tension and sinister manipulation. Writing issues slow down the story, and occasional production missteps are in evidence, but Brick turns in a rewarding performance. J.M.M. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine
