Book Review: Dune by Frank Herbert

My rating: 4/5 stars

This was higher fantasy than what I’m used to reading, but I loved it and found the novel utterly absorbing. Though I struggled to keep track of the characters and details initially, Herbert is a masterful writer who steers the reader confidently through complex narratives. The framework plot is reassuringly simple: Paul is the son of a duke, a powerful man who is killed early on in the book. Paul manifests some unusual powers and prophecies begin to swirl around him as he escapes assassination himself and seeks to live as a fugitive and lead others, with the support of his mother, who is also more than she seems. All this in the context of space travel, a desert planet, a mysterious and addictive spice, and giant sand worms that can swallow spacecraft whole. Dune is a surprisingly tender read, a must-read for anybody even slightly interested in sci-fi or fantasy, in ruling dynasties, or in how power changes people.

An Awkward Thing

So, this is awkward, but I do need to pay my bills. Writing is my day job. I want to keep my posts free so that as many people as possible can benefit from them, especially all my writing advice. But, free posts won’t keep my kids in school shoes. So, if you’ve found this post enjoyable or helpful, would you consider buying me a coffee, or taking a look at my editing and critique services? Thanks!