Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson return to the vivid universe of Frank Herbert's Dune, bringing a vast array of rich and complex characters into conflict to shape the destiny of worlds. . . .

As Shaddam IV sits at last on the Golden Lion Throne after the secret assassination of his father, Baron Vladimir Harkonnen plots against the new Emperor and House Atreides—and against the mysterious Bene Gesserit Sisterhood.

For Leto Atreides, the new Duke of Caladan, the Sisterhood has presented him with a concubine, specially trained to be his perfect mate. Jessica. Is she his true love, or a spy? It is a time of momentous choice: between friendship and duty, safety and destiny. But for the survival of House Atreides, there is just one choice—strive for greatness or be crushed.