Paul of Dune, written by sci-fi powerhouses Brian Herbert (son of Dune author Frank) and Kevin J. Anderson, is a welcome addition to the Dune Saga, filling as it does an important gap between the first and second books (Dune and Dune Messiah) of the original Dune series. This new book details how the new emperor, Paul Muad’Dib, and his army of Jihadists from the spice planet Dune began to take over the planets in the known universe through military force after the fall of the Padishah Emperor.

Although Paul’s religious Fedaykin fighters are nearly invincible in battle, Paul must overcome the plots and schemes of the Spacing Guild, the Bene Gesserit witches, the rebel Landsraad houses and Count Fenring, who each try to disrupt Paul’s consolidation of the Imperium at every turn. Paul also has his own self-doubt to contend with - he is plagued by dreams of the terrible consequences to the human race should his Jihad ultimately fail.

The authors have used Frank Herbert’s extensive notes to construct a story that reveals the transformation of Paul from a young boy into the famed Emperor Maud’Dib, while also fleshing out the backstories of many minor characters who only make brief appearances in the original books.

Paul of Dune book provides a fast-paced read that will thrill the Dune enthusiast who longs to learn more about the world of Dune. It is recommended that one re-read the original Dune books before starting Paul of Dune, although this novel certainly also has the ability to stand on its own for new readers of the landmark sci-fi series. Recommended!