Dune: Edge of a Crysknife

Dune by BOOM! Studios

by Brian Herbert (Creator), Kevin J. Anderson, Simone Ragazzoni (Illustrator)

The secrets of the desert run deep in this pivotal collection from the expanded Dune universe!

Dive into two thrilling standalone stories exploring the myth and legacy of Shadout Mapes and her son, Samos!

From covert sabotage of the Harkonnen’s spice operation to a daring Fremen-led assault, this thrilling saga spans generations of rebellion fueled by honor, vengeance, and the fury of Shai-Hulud itself.

Award-winning authors Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson are joined by returning series artists Simone Ragazzoni (Dune: House Harkonnen), Andrea Scalmazzi and Francesco Mazzoli (Dune: House Corrino) to bring another corner of theDune universe to life in this essential hardcover.

Collects Dune: Edge of a Crysknife: Hiding Among Harkonnens #1 and Dune: Edge of a Crysknife: Rage of Shai-Hulud #1.

Genres: Comics

112 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication July 14, 2026

About the author

Brian Patrick Herbert is an American author who lives in Washington state. He is the elder son of science fiction author Frank Patrick Herbert.

Reviews

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thanks to NetGallery and BOOM! Studios for an advance copy of this new graphic novel that looks to the past of a planet that has always been at the center of strife and turmoil, to the early days of a revolution that caused much water to flow in tears and in lives wasted.

The future is always uncertain. Few want to admit that maybe the worst is still coming, especially in a time where water is wasted, the sands are corrupted, even the might worms are under attack. The heavy foot of an oppressive lord is crushing down, causing vibrations that shake the sands. The only option it seems is to fight, fight from the shadows, fight from the shade. However victory sometimes isn't assured, and what might follow could even be worse. Dune: Edge of a Crysknife is written by Kevin J. Anderson with Brian Herbert and illustrated by Zak Hartong is a story about the time before the rise of the Muad'Dib, telling the story of Shadout Mapes a Fremen spy and soldier, a lover and mother, and her war against those exploiting the planet known as Dune.

Arrakis, better known as the planet Dune is the most important planet in the known universe. Arrakis is the only known source of the spice melange, which extends life, restores health, opens the mind to the possibilities, and allows people to travel the great interstellar distances that make up the universe. As such those how export the spice have a power and influence in government that allows them a lot of latitude in how they mine the spice. Something that House Harkonnen, counts on. The Harkonnen's have not counted on the Fremen, the people of Arrakis, the ones who understand the sand, the creatures that live in it. And have a hunger for freedom. Rising as a leader is one known as Shadout Mapes, who has cost the Harkonnen much during her raids. Mapes is chosen to go undercover to learn the Harkonnen ways, and destroy their infrastructure from within. A task that does not come without cost. Costs that will wear on her soul, and maybe even taint the victory she so desperately wants.

The book is a prequel to the story of Dune, featuring a character that fans might remember, but to many might not mean much. One needs to know something about the story of Dune, who Mapes was, the leader of the Fremen, and about what is important about Dune. As such this is a story for fans and for fans who want all the gaps filled in. The story is ok, the plot will be familiar but does fill in why certain people are where they are in in the later books. The art is quite good. The battles are very kinetic, with a feeling that those lost mattered. The worms are pretty good too, god-like in appearance, with a destructive bent.

This is a comic, again for fans, and for fans that want to know everything. I don't see a casual reader starting here. The story fills in the blanks, give some answers to some questions, and again, places people in positions for later books. A comic for those who wishes their eyes were blue, and want to dip in the water of life to be aware of all things.

[Brian Shevory · Rating 3 out of 5]

Many thanks to BOOM! Studios and NetGalley for sharing an advanced copy of Dune: Edge of a Crysknife, written by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson with illustrations by Simone Ragazzoni, Andrea Scalmazzi, and Frank Mazzoli. I’m not completely immersed in the Dune world, but I have watched the recent adaptations and read the original Dune book by Frank Herbert. This is a story that incorporates many of the themes about colonization and rebellion, as well as the specifics of the Dune mythology, and creates some plotlines showing how the members of the Fremen are battling against the Harkonnens, enlisting the Shai-Hulud for help.
There are two interrelated stories contained in this edition, and both feature stories of resistance to the Harkonnens, but they have different artists. Nevertheless, the artwork is pretty similar, and it is colorful and bright, helping to highlight some of the unique features of the Fremen and Arrakis. Nothing stood out to me too much in either story, except that there’s a battle for spice mélange and both stories feature the shai-hulud, the giant sandworms that populate Arrakis. Both stories also feature a plot involving Dmitri Harkonnen, another ruthless Harkonnen governor. I really liked his artwork, as the artists made him appear imposing and brooding. While he doesn’t say much, his presence is felt through the harsh conditions he imposes on the people of Arrakis. Ultimately, the Fremen employ a plot to infiltrate Dmitri Harkonnen’s headquarters. Will it work? How will their inside knowledge lead to changes? This was a quick read, and it should be of interest to other fans of Dune. I would have appreciated some additional background or character lists since I sometimes struggle with keeping the varied houses and factions within the Dune mythos clear. Nevertheless, it’s pretty easy to see and understand which forces are at battle in these stories and what the stakes ultimately are. If anything, the ending of this edition left me wanting more, waiting to find out what will happen next in the saga to control Arrakis and the flow of spice.

[Read Me After Midnight · Rating 3 out of 5]

A comic book, Dune: Edge of a Crysknife by Kevin J. Anderson, is a standalone addition to the Dune series. It is a story in the universe, but it does not focus on the main storyline. The main character is Shadout Mapes, and partially her son, Samos. The story explores the myth and legacy of the Fremen rebellion against Harkonnen’s spice operation.
Most of the comic book is about the Fremen and the Harkonnens fighting with each other. There is no complex plot or strategy. It is a rather simple story focused on killing each other. I think the potential of the story was not fully used. The idea itself was great and could be a fine addition to the Dune storyline and worldbuilding. I personally liked the artwork - it fit the retro science fiction vibe of the original story. However, the dialogue writing seemed a little bit off.
I think if you are not already a fan of the Dune series, then the comic book is not gonna win you over. It was a nice, enjoyable read, but nothing spectacular. Certainly, it didn’t make me want to dive into the universe more.
I’ve received this book for free through the 'Read Now' section on NetGalley.

[Athena 💗 · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ Rounded up.

Lately I have been hearing so much about the Dune series. My husband, who is fairly new to the world of fiction reading been talking about picking up this series as his next read. Since I was feeling skeptical about picking up the series myself I thought a graphic novel would be the perfect starting point to me.

I think I can confidently say that I am just not the targeted audience for this graphic novel. I almost feel bad writing and rating this because in reality I have no idea how to even compare it to the original series, Frank Herbert’s writing or even other graphic novels wi the in this same genre.

I personally enjoyed the artwork. It wasn’t the best I have seen but it was still pleasant to look at and kept me engaged in the story. I also enjoyed the author’s writing, it was easy to follow along with and I felt like I was able to keep a steady pace going. I will be interested to have my husband and son take a look at this and get their opinions after they have read the original Dune series.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

2 -2.5 ⭐️
Net Galley

thanks to BOOM! Studios and NetGalley for sharing an advanced copy of Dune: Edge of a Crysknife, written by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson with illustrations by Simone Ragazzoni, Andrea Scalmazzi, and Frank Mazzoli.
I’m not very immersed in the Dune world, but I have watched the recent adaptations and have been wanting to read the original Dune book by Frank Herbert. I also have just started reading comics, manga and graphic novels. I thought the art style was interesting but not exactly what I would picture as Dune maybe a little too cartoonish? I also feel if you are a big fan of Dune you might not like it because it felt repetitive and boring but I could be wrong and they could just eat up and little bit they can get. I am not sure who the targeted audience would be but as I am not familiar with the Dune world I didn’t find myself wanting to dive into the world.
For me rating 2.5 ⭐️ rounded to 3

[Annette Jordan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dune: Edge of a Crysknife by Kevin J Anderson, Brian Herbert and Zak Hartong takes us to Dune before the arrival of House Atreides and focuses on the Fremem resistance to House Harkonnen. Both of the stories follow Shadout Mapes, a name that will be familiar to fans of the original novel, and gives us a glimpse of her backstory. As someone who really enjoyed the original books I was intrigued but you do not need to be familiar to read this comic, however it does not really add much to the story as a whole. There are two separate but similar tales full of fighting and action, and with a little espionage to boot and the artwork is fun and functional when it comes to telling the story. A nice little extra but not an essential read.
I read an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received from netgalley

To say I'm excited for dune in December is an understatement, and if you are as well, I highly recommend this comic.

Mapes, a small but important character in Dune (played by Queen Charlotte from bridgerton in the movie!), here takes center stage. A prequel that effectively sets the stage for the desperate acts the Fremen take once the Atreides take control of Arrakis.

I found the first story, "Hiding Amoung Harkonnes" slightly stronger than "Rage of Shai-Hulud," with Mapes taking center stage rather than being more of a spectator.

Also, while the art style is beautiful, definitely worth a read if you're nostalgic for the sci fi animated films of the 2000s, sometimes the characters could be difficult to tell a part.

Still, let's all have dune fever together!!

[Jeff · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Dune: Edge of a Crysknife” is a story that takes place in the Dune Universe but not focusing on the main storyline. Full Disclosure: I have never read a Dune book or seen any movie. So, I’m not familiar with the story or any character that may have appeared before. For that reason, I may not be the best reviewer, but I can be an honest reviewer.

If you are not already a fan, this will not win you over. I had hoped this would draw me into the Dune Universe, but instead, I’m fine standing outside. The artwork is a bit retro-ish. The story is just okay.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Amanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

The backstory of Shadout Mapes, a minor character from Dune.

I really should know by now to only read Dune books written by Frank Herbert. This title wasn't as bad as others, but the dialog is bad, the story makes the Fremen seem like fools, and the art looks like it came from a 1990s' animated TV series that was cancelled after three episodes.

Received via NetGalley.

[Thom · Rating 2 out of 5]

Note: I received access to read this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

This book felt like a notable step down in the writing from Frank Herbert. But it's still an action packed thrill. The set pieces are definitely what you want to see out of the dune universe. I didn't love the artwork. It lacked clarity and the characters looked like The Wild Kratts.

[Darrell · Rating 3 out of 5]

This gives us an origin story for Shadout Mapes, a character from the original Dune novel. In my opinion, it didn't really add anything. The Fremen and the Harkonnens kill each other back and forth and that's about it. We don't get much characterization. If you're already familiar with the Dune universe, nothing surprising happens. It's just about fighting.

[Laurel Simon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this comic and thought it was fun way to introduce people to dune. I think it serves as kind of prequel to dune focusing on a time before Paul came to the planet. The art style was interesting. But for me I wouldn’t feel the need to pick this up in stores. 3.5 stars rounded up.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boom for the chance to read this early.

[Join the Penguin Resistance! · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new graphic novel containing two exciting new action-packed, heatwrenching, tales set in the Dune Universe, by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, gloriously illustrated and including the script of one of the tales. An illustrious addition for DUNE aficionado and collectors.

[Chad · Rating 2 out of 5]

Eh. Two prequels fleshing out the minor character of Mapes before House Atreides gets involved with Arrakis. I thought the art was too cartoonish for Dune. These are kind of nothing stories and only about 80 pages with the rest being filled out with extra covers and script to page pieces.