In this classic adult science fiction novel, Paul Atreides becomes entrapped in a centuries long prophecy when he goes on a quest to avenge his family.
I remember enjoying this book when I original read it ages ago, but my experience with the audiobook this time around made it a chore to read. I discovered years ago I was not a fan of multicast productions when I attempted to listen to Cashore's Graceling - the audiobook would switch between a female narrator when Katsa spoke out loud, but a male narrator for her inner dialogue. It completely pulled me out of the story to have such a dramatic switch during a scene. I thought it would be okay for this story, but, in some ways, it was worse. To give an example - the Baron Harkonnen had a deep voice (think Darth Vader) when speaking, but his inner narrator had a completely different tone and pace. Additionally, the audio had this "wind" track that would play at the oddest times. It might have been one thing for it to play at the beginning of the chapter, but it would interrupt entire conversations and passages routinely.
Despite my issues with the production, I still enjoyed this multifaceted story intertwining politics and religion in a unique setting. The manipulations of the Bene Gesserit, Spacing Guild, and Emperor rival the politics of Game of Thrones. Each faction exploits, oppresses, and subjugates the natives of Dune in order to further their own agenda. Irulan's writings inserted at the beginning of each chapter painted a rich tapestry for world building as well as provided some insight into these factions and characters.
Lady Jessica is by far the most interesting character (sorry Paul). Her love and devotion to her family is admirable, although it's through this love she feeds into the myth and legend of Muad'dib. It endangers both of her children at multiple points in the story. While I love the romance between Paul and Chani, their relationship is not given nearly the time or attention needed to grow organically. In some ways, I think the movies do more justice to their relationship by inserting more visions of Chani into Paul's head prior to him meeting her.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read if you like: 🌎 Rich worldbuilding | 🔮 Free will/fate | 🌧️ Environmental issues
Find it: Amazon | Goodreads
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