Warcraft Books
Title | Author | Publication Date | Series | Timeline | Wiki | Read | Rating |
Dawn of the Aspects | Richard A. Knaak | 2013 | Post Cata, Flashbacks to Ancient | wiki | 4/2023 | 4.8 3.8 | |
Rise of the Horde | Christie Golden | 2006 | World of Warcraft series, Book 2 Rise of the Horde & Lord of the Clans: The Illustrated Novels |
Ancient | wiki | 5/2023 | 4.6 4.2 |
Unbroken | Micky Neilson | 2007 | wiki | ||||
The Last Guardian | Jeff Grubb | 2002 | Part of Archive book (with Day of Dragon, Lord of the Clans, and Last Guardian, of Blood and Honor)) |
First War | 5/2023 | 4.8 3.8 | |
Tides of Darkness | Aaron Rosenberg | 2007 | World of Warcraft series, Book 3 |
Second War | 4.5 3.9 | ||
Beyond the Dark Portal | Aaron Rosenberg, Christie Golden | 2008 | World of Warcraft series, Book 4 |
Second War | 4.6 4.0 | ||
Day of the Dragon | Richard A. Knaak | 2001 | Part of Archive book (with Day of Dragon, Lord of the Clans, and Last Guardian, of Blood and Honor)) |
After Second War | 7/2024 | ||
The Well of Eternity | Richard A. Knaak | 2004 | War of the Ancients, bk 1 |
Post Battle of Mount Hyjal, but time travel back | 8/2023 | ||
The Demon Soul | Richard A. Knaak | 2004 | War of the Ancients, bk 2 |
Post Battle of Mount Hyjal, but time travel back | 2023 | ||
The Sundering | Richard A. Knaak | 2005 | War of the Ancients, bk 3 |
4/2024 | |||
Road to Damnation | Evelyn Fredricksen | 2005 | |||||
Lord of the Clans | Christie Golden | 2001 | Rise of the Horde & Lord of the Clans: The Illustrated Novels |
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Of Blood and Honor | Chris Metzen | 2000 | Part of Archive book (with Day of Dragon, Lord of the Clans, and Last Guardian, of Blood and Honor)) |
After second war | |||
Arthas: Rise of the Lich King | Christie Golden | 2009 | World of Warcraft series, Book 6 |
Spans first and second war, then third, and leads into Lich King expansion | 4/2023 | ||
Vol'jin: The Judgement | 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Cycle of Hatred | Keith R.A. DeCandido | 2006 | World of Warcraft series, Book 1 |
Between Third War and WoW | 3/204 | ||
War of the Shifting Sands | 2005 | ||||||
Illidan: World of Warcraft | William King | 2016 | Second War + Burning Crusade | ||||
Night of the Dragon | Richard A. Knaak | 2008 | World of Warcraft series, Book 5 |
Lich King? | |||
Lor'themar Theron: In the Shadow of the Sun [Short Story] (Read here) | Sarah Pine | 2008, 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Garrosh Hellscream: Heart of War [Short Story] (Read here) | Sarah Pine | 2010, 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Sylvanas Windrunner: Edge of Night [Short Story] | Dave Kosak | 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Stormrage | World of Warcraft series, Book 7 |
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The Shattering | World of Warcraft series, Book 8 |
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Gelbin Mekkatorque: Cut Short [Short Story] (Read here) | 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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The Council of Three Hammers: Fire and Iron [Short Story] (Read here) | 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Tyrande and Malfurion: Seeds of Faith [Short Story] (Read here) | 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Gallywix: Trade Secrets of a Trade Prince [Short Story] (Read here) | 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Baine Bloodhoof: As Our Fathers Before Us [Short Story] (Read here) | 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Genn Greymane: Lord of his Pack [Short Story] (Read here) | 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Wolfheart | World of Warcraft series, Book 10 |
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Velen: Prophet's Lesson [Short Story] (Read here) | 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Varian Wrynn: Blood of our Fathers [Short Story] (Read here) | 2011 | Leader Short Stories |
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Thrall: Twilight of the Aspects | World of Warcraft series, Book 9 |
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Charge of the Aspects [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
Jaina Proudmoore: Tides of War | Christie Golden | 2012 | World of Warcraft series, Book 11 |
Post Cata. Intro into Mists of Pandaria | |||
Dawn of the Aspects | World of Warcraft series, Book 12 |
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Quest for Pandaria [Short Story] (All parts linked below) | |||||||
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Part 3 | |||||||
Part 4 | |||||||
Li Li's Travel Journal [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
Death from Above [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
Bleeding Sun [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
The Trial of the Red Blossoms [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
Vol'jin: Shadows of the Horde | Michael A. Stackpole | 2013 | World of Warcraft series, Book 13 |
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The Blank Scroll [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
The Strength of Steel [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
The Jade Hunters [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
Over Water [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
The Untamed Valley [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
War Crimes | Christie Golden | 2014 | World of Warcraft series, Book 14 |
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Hellscream [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
Code of Rule [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
Apocrypha [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
Dark Mirror [Short Story] (Read here) | |||||||
Book 15: Illidan | William King | 2016 | World of Warcraft series, Book 15 |
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Book 16: Traveler | World of Warcraft series, Book 16 |
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Book 17: Traveler: The Spiral Path | World of Warcraft series, Book 17 |
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Book 18: Before the Storm | World of Warcraft series, Book 18 |
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Book 19: Traveler: The Shining Blade | World of Warcraft series, Book 19 |
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Shadows Rising | Madeleine Roux | 2020 | World of Warcraft series, Book 20 |
Post BFA | wiki | ||
Book 21: Rise of the Horde & Lord of the Clans: The Illustrated Novels | World of Warcraft series, Book 21 |
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Sylvanas | Christie Golden | 2022 | World of Warcraft series, Book 22 |
Second War, Third War, Shadowlands | wiki | 4/2022 | |
World of Warcraft Chronicles | |||||||
Bonds of Brotherhood | |||||||
War of the Scaleborn | Courtney Alameda | 2023 | World of Warcraft, Book x |
Dragonflight | wiki | 5/2024 |
Author | Richard A. Knaak |
Publication Date | 2013 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
Links | amazon |
Wiki | wiki |
Timeline | Post Cata, Flashbacks to Ancient |
Read | 4/2023 |
Dawn of the Aspects is a five-part serial novel set after the events of Cataclysm, where the former Dragon Aspects are adjusting to life without their godlike powers. The story follows Kalecgos, the former Blue Aspect, as he uncovers a mysterious artifact tied to the past of the dragonflights. Through visions triggered by the artifact, Kalec relives the ancient and violent history of the proto-dragons and witnesses how the five Aspects—Alexstrasza, Malygos, Ysera, Nozdormu, and Neltharion—were chosen and transformed by the titans. These glimpses into the past uncover ancient rivalries, the proto-dragons’ brutal existence, and Neltharion’s early signs of corruption. As Kalec gets pulled deeper into these visions, he must face both the burdens of legacy and the threats posed by those who would exploit the artifact’s power.
Author | Christie Golden |
Publication Date | 2006 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
Links | amazon |
Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 2Rise of the Horde & Lord of the Clans: The Illustrated Novels |
Wiki | wiki |
Timeline | Ancient |
Read | 5/2023 |
Rise of the Horde tells the tragic and epic origin story of the orcs and the birth of the Horde, set on the shattered world of Draenor. The novel is narrated largely from the perspective of Durotan, chieftain of the Frostwolf Clan and father of Thrall. It chronicles how the once-noble orc clans lived in harmony with the elements and their draenei neighbors—until the influence of the demon lord Kil’jaeden began to twist their fate. The manipulations of Gul’dan and the Burning Legion lead to the orcs’ descent into bloodlust, fel magic, and the eventual war against the draenei. Durotan, seeing the truth behind the corruption, struggles with his conscience and loyalty to his people. The novel is a sweeping tale of honor, betrayal, and the devastating consequences of power unchecked—laying the foundation for the Horde as we know it.
Unbroken is a short story that focuses on Nobundo, a once-respected draenei vindicator who loses everything after the orcs’ fel-fueled genocide on Draenor. Left crippled and broken by the destruction of the Temple of Karabor and the shattering of his people, Nobundo is rejected by the Light and by his fellow draenei. As he wanders alone in despair, he begins to hear whispers carried by the wind—spirits of the elements. These voices lead him to become the first draenei shaman, forging a new spiritual path for his people in a time when the Light had seemingly abandoned them. The story explores themes of loss, spiritual transformation, and redemption, portraying Nobundo’s journey from pariah to pioneer of elemental magic among the draenei.
originally published in the WarCraft: Legends manga series, then released online and in collections
Author | Jeff Grubb |
Publication Date | 2002 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
Links | |
Series | Part of Archive book (with Day of Dragon, Lord of the Clans, and Last Guardian, of Blood and Honor)) |
Timeline | First War |
Read | 5/2023 |
The Last Guardian tells the story of Medivh, the powerful and enigmatic Guardian of Tirisfal, whose tragic fall sets in motion the events of the First War. The novel is primarily told from the point of view of Khadgar, a young apprentice mage sent by Dalaran to study under Medivh in Karazhan. As Khadgar trains, he slowly uncovers disturbing secrets about his master’s past, including Medivh’s mysterious connection to Sargeras and the orcish invasion of Azeroth. The story builds a deep and suspenseful atmosphere as Khadgar grapples with loyalty, truth, and the growing darkness that threatens to consume Medivh—and the world. This novel is a crucial piece of Warcraft lore, exploring the origins of the Dark Portal and the terrible burden of unchecked power.
Author | Aaron Rosenberg |
Publication Date | 2007 |
Format | Paperback (hard to get / expensive) |
Links | youtube |
Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 3 |
Timeline | Second War |
Tides of Darkness retells the events of the Second War, following the aftermath of the orcs’ initial invasion through the Dark Portal. With Stormwind fallen, the newly formed Alliance of Lordaeron—led by King Terenas and heroes like Anduin Lothar, Turalyon, Khadgar, and Alleria Windrunner—rises to face the growing threat of the Horde, now led by the cunning and brutal Orgrim Doomhammer. The novel explores political alliances, massive military campaigns, and personal rivalries as both sides vie for control of Azeroth. It also delves into the moral complexity of war, the corruption of Gul’dan and his necrolytes, and the tension within the Horde itself. With epic battles, deep character development, and high-stakes action, Tides of Darkness is a foundational tale in Warcraft’s history, showcasing the chaos and valor of the Second War.
Author | Aaron Rosenberg, Christie Golden |
Publication Date | 2008 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
Links | |
Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 4 |
Timeline | Second War |
Beyond the Dark Portal picks up after the Second War, as the remnants of the Horde, under the desperate leadership of Ner’zhul, reopen the Dark Portal and launch raids across Azeroth—not to conquer, but to gather powerful artifacts to fuel the creation of new portals to other worlds. In response, the Alliance sends a strike force into Draenor, including heroes like Khadgar, Turalyon, Alleria, Danath Trollbane, and Kurdran Wildhammer. As Draenor begins to collapse under the chaotic magic unleashed by Ner’zhul, the heroes must make the ultimate sacrifice to stop him and save Azeroth from destruction. The novel is packed with high-stakes adventure, character-driven drama, and the first steps toward the events that would lead to the rise of the Burning Legion and the Scourge. It’s a crucial bridge between Tides of Darkness and the origins of the Lich King.
Author | Richard A. Knaak |
Publication Date | 2001 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
Links | |
Series | Part of Archive book (with Day of Dragon, Lord of the Clans, and Last Guardian, of Blood and Honor)) |
Timeline | After Second War |
Read | 7/2024 |
Day of the Dragon follows Rhonin, a disgraced mage sent on a mission to Khaz Modan under mysterious orders. Unbeknownst to him, his true task is to free the imprisoned dragon Aspect Alexstrasza, who is being used by the orcish Dragonmaw Clan to breed draconic weapons of war. Along the way, Rhonin is joined by Vereesa Windrunner and aided by Krasus, a dragon in human form. The story intertwines political intrigue, ancient power struggles, and the return of Deathwing, whose secret manipulations could doom both dragonkind and mortals. With sweeping action and major developments in dragon lore, this novel is a cornerstone of Warcraft’s pre-Warcraft III era narrative.
Author | Richard A. Knaak |
Publication Date | 2004 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
Links | |
Series | War of the Ancients, bk 1 |
Timeline | Post Battle of Mount Hyjal, but time travel back |
Read | 8/2023 |
The Well of Eternity kicks off the War of the Ancients trilogy, sending Rhonin, Krasus, and Broll Bearmantle 10,000 years into the past—just before the first Burning Legion invasion of Azeroth. In this ancient era, the night elves are at their peak, ruled by the beautiful and dangerously arrogant Queen Azshara, whose obsession with power opens the door for Sargeras and his demonic minions to enter the world. As the Well of Eternity’s magic is exploited, war brews across the land. The time-traveling trio must navigate unfamiliar political and magical landscapes to prevent history from unraveling. Meanwhile, young Malfurion Stormrage begins to sense the true danger of tampering with arcane magic. It’s a blend of epic battles, fateful alliances, and the rise of heroes destined to shape the world.
Author | Richard A. Knaak |
Publication Date | 2004 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
Links | |
Series | War of the Ancients, bk 2 |
Timeline | Post Battle of Mount Hyjal, but time travel back |
Read | 2023 |
The Demon Soul dives deeper into the apocalyptic chaos of the Burning Legion’s first invasion. As Malfurion and his allies scramble to unite the night elf resistance, the stakes grow higher with the emergence of Neltharion’s sinister plan to create the Demon Soul—a powerful artifact meant to destroy the Legion, but at a terrible cost. The dragons, led by the other Aspects, reluctantly agree to infuse their essence into the weapon, unaware of Deathwing’s true intentions. Meanwhile, Illidan seeks forbidden power, dangerously flirting with the Legion’s magic. As the fabric of history frays, the time-travelers—Rhonin and Krasus—struggle to walk the line between helping and preserving the future. This book ramps up the intensity, setting the stage for sacrifice, betrayal, and the catastrophic reshaping of the world.
Author | Richard A. Knaak |
Publication Date | 2005 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
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Series | War of the Ancients, bk 3 |
Timeline | |
Read | 4/2024 |
The Sundering is the explosive conclusion to the War of the Ancients trilogy, culminating in the cataclysm that shattered the world—literally. As the Legion presses forward, Queen Azshara and her loyalists finalize the ritual to bring Sargeras into Azeroth through the Well of Eternity. Meanwhile, Malfurion, Tyrande, and their allies—now joined by dragons, druids, and even some unexpected heroes like Jarod Shadowsong—launch a last-ditch defense. Illidan, walking a dangerous line between savior and villain, steals vials of Well water and disappears into legend. The final confrontation is massive, tragic, and world-altering, ending with the shattering of the Well and the breaking of the continent into what will become Kalimdor, the Eastern Kingdoms, and beyond. With the timeline stabilized and the world forever changed, Rhonin and Krasus return to their own time, carrying the weight of everything they’ve witnessed.
Author | Evelyn Fredricksen |
Publication Date | 2005 |
Format | Web |
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Road to Damnation is a chilling origin story of Kel’Thuzad, one of the most iconic villains in Warcraft lore. At the height of his influence as a mage of the Kirin Tor, Kel’Thuzad grows disillusioned with the limitations and moral constraints of the Council. Drawn by dark whispers and forbidden knowledge, he becomes obsessed with necromancy. Despite warnings and mounting evidence of corruption, he follows the Lich King’s call—abandoning his post, wealth, and status to travel to Northrend. There, he pledges himself to Ner’zhul, who grants him new undeath and purpose. This story sets the stage for Kel’Thuzad’s role in corrupting Arthas, spreading the Plague of Undeath, and building the Cult of the Damned, ultimately leading to the events of Warcraft III.
Author | Christie Golden |
Publication Date | 2001 |
Format | Paperback |
Links | amazon |
Series | Rise of the Horde & Lord of the Clans: The Illustrated Novels |
Timeline |
Lord of the Clans tells the origin story of Thrall, the orc who would rise to reunite the shattered clans and forge a new vision for the Horde. Born to the Frostwolf Clan but orphaned as an infant, Thrall is raised in Durnholde Keep by Aedelas Blackmoore, who intends to use him as a weaponized gladiator. Despite brutal conditions, Thrall develops a sharp mind and an unbreakable spirit. With the help of Taretha Foxton, he escapes and begins a journey of discovery—finding his people, his culture, and his spiritual connection to the elements through shamanism. Thrall’s path leads him to Drek’Thar, Orgrim Doomhammer, and ultimately to leadership, as he embraces his destiny to free the orcs from demonic corruption and reclaim their honor. This is the story that sets the moral foundation for the modern Horde.
Author | Chris Metzen |
Publication Date | 2000 |
Format | |
Links | amazon |
Series | Part of Archive book (with Day of Dragon, Lord of the Clans, and Last Guardian, of Blood and Honor)) |
Timeline | After second war |
Of Blood and Honor is a character-driven novella set in the aftermath of the Second War, exploring themes of honor, prejudice, and redemption. Tirion Fordring, a respected paladin of the Silver Hand, discovers an orc named Eitrigg living peacefully in the Eastern Kingdoms. When Tirion is wounded and aided by the orc, he’s forced to reevaluate his black-and-white view of the Horde. Choosing to honor the orc’s courage and integrity, Tirion defies his peers and defends Eitrigg’s life, leading to his own disgrace and exile from the Order. The story is foundational in establishing Tirion’s character—his unshakable moral compass and his eventual path toward becoming a central figure in Wrath of the Lich King. It also humanizes the orcs, showing that not all were corrupted or evil.
Author | Christie Golden |
Publication Date | 2009 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
Links | amazon |
Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 6 |
Timeline | Spans first and second war, then third, and leads into Lich King expansion |
Read | 4/2023 |
Arthas: Rise of the Lich King is the definitive character study of one of Warcraft’s most iconic figures. The novel traces Arthas Menethil’s journey from a noble prince and idealistic paladin to the merciless Lich King. It explores his upbringing in Lordaeron, his romance with Jaina Proudmoore, and his early struggles with leadership and responsibility. When the undead Scourge invades, Arthas makes increasingly questionable choices—culminating in the culling of Stratholme and his obsession with stopping the plague at any cost. In Northrend, he claims the cursed blade Frostmourne, sacrificing his soul to gain power. From there, the story follows his descent into undeath, betrayal of his kingdom, and eventual merger with Ner’zhul, transforming him into the Lich King. The novel weaves together scenes from Warcraft III, Wrath of the Lich King, and even flashbacks from Arthas’s youth to show the tragic unraveling of a hero.
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Publication Date | 2011 |
Format | Web |
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Series | Leader Short Stories |
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In this story, the young Vol’jin and Zalazane undergo trials in order to meet the loa, ultimately revealing their destinies as shadow hunter and witch doctor respectively. It also follows the aftermath of Zalazane’s Fall.
Author | Keith R.A. DeCandido |
Publication Date | 2006 |
Format | Paperback |
Links | amazon goodreads |
Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 1 |
Timeline | Between Third War and WoW |
Read | 3/204 |
Cycle of Hatred is set one year before the events of World of Warcraft and focuses on the fragile peace between the Horde and Alliance following the Third War. Jaina Proudmoore, now leader of Theramore, works to maintain diplomacy with Thrall, the Warchief of the Horde in Orgrimmar. However, tensions escalate as rogue attacks, misunderstandings, and deep-rooted mistrust begin to unravel their efforts. As each side suspects the other of betrayal, a hidden demonic force—Zmodlor—emerges, fanning the flames of conflict to reignite war. The novel highlights the emotional and political weight carried by both leaders, and the constant push-and-pull between vengeance and reconciliation. It’s a story about how peace is harder to keep than war—and how easily old wounds can be reopened.
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Publication Date | 2005 |
Format | Web |
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Author | William King |
Publication Date | 2016 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
Links | amazon |
Timeline | Second War + Burning Crusade |
Author | Richard A. Knaak |
Publication Date | 2008 |
Format | Audible, Kindle, Paperback |
Links | amazon |
Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 5 |
Timeline | Lich King? |
follow-up to the 2001 novel Day of the Dragon, and also provides insight into events leading up to Wrath of the Lich King. In addition, it follows up on several of the characters and storylines introduced in the Sunwell Trilogy and Shadow Wing mangas.
Author | Sarah Pine |
Publication Date | 2008, 2011 |
Format | Web |
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Series | Leader Short Stories |
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Author | Sarah Pine |
Publication Date | 2010, 2011 |
Format | Web |
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Series | Leader Short Stories |
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The first story of [the Leaders of Azeroth series], ‘Heart of War’ offers a glimpse into the experiences that have shaped Garrosh into the leader he is today: his heroic exploits in Northrend; his uncertainty as he arrived in the imposing Horde capital of Orgrimmar; and most importantly, his friendship with his mentor, the warchief he would eventually replace, Thrall
Author | Dave Kosak |
Publication Date | 2011 |
Format | Web |
Links | |
Series | Leader Short Stories |
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Edge of Night is a short story by Dave Kosak featured on the official site. It is the ninth in the Leaders of Azeroth series, released on September 27, 2011,[1] and centers on the Forsaken’s ruler Sylvanas Windrunner.
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 7 |
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 8 |
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Publication Date | 2011 |
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Series | Leader Short Stories |
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 10 |
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Publication Date | 2011 |
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Series | Leader Short Stories |
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 9 |
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Author | Christie Golden |
Publication Date | 2012 |
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Links | amazon |
Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 11 |
Timeline | Post Cata. Intro into Mists of Pandaria |
Tides of War chronicles the destruction of Theramore and the transformation of Jaina Proudmoore from peace-seeking diplomat to vengeful war mage. With Garrosh Hellscream leading the Horde down an aggressive, expansionist path, Theramore becomes a prime target. Despite warnings and growing tension, Jaina holds firm in her hope for diplomacy—until Garrosh uses a mana bomb, enhanced by Focusing Iris magic, to utterly obliterate her city and everyone in it. The devastation breaks something inside her, and Jaina, once a symbol of peace, nearly unleashes arcane annihilation in revenge. Guided by Khadgar and her growing relationship with Kalecgos, she ultimately pulls back—but emerges hardened, determined, and forever changed. The novel explores trauma, rage, betrayal, and the thin line between justice and vengeance, while setting up future conflicts for Mists of Pandaria and beyond.
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 12 |
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Author | Michael A. Stackpole |
Publication Date | 2013 |
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 13 |
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Shadows of the Horde begins in the wake of Garrosh Hellscream’s betrayal, as Vol’jin survives an assassination attempt ordered by the Warchief. Gravely wounded, he is taken to Pandaria, where the Shado-Pan seek to heal not only his body, but his fractured sense of identity. As Vol’jin recovers, he is forced to confront painful truths about his past, his role within the Horde, and what kind of future he should fight for. Alongside allies like Chen Stormstout, Anduin Wrynn, and the stoic Taran Zhu, Vol’jin comes to understand the Horde’s growing corruption—and his potential place as its moral compass. When the Zandalari trolls threaten Pandaria, Vol’jin must rise from the shadows and reclaim his voice as a leader—not only of the Darkspear, but perhaps of the Horde itself. The novel blends spiritual introspection with action, and sets the stage for Vol’jin’s eventual rise to Warchief.
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Author | Christie Golden |
Publication Date | 2014 |
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 14 |
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War Crimes takes place after Garrosh Hellscream’s defeat in Siege of Orgrimmar and centers around his trial in Pandaria, where both Alliance and Horde leaders are forced to confront their own pasts as much as Garrosh’s crimes. The trial is presided over by the August Celestials, and evidence is presented through magical visions conjured by Chromie—allowing the characters (and the reader) to relive key moments in recent Warcraft history, from the bombing of Theramore to Garrosh’s atrocities in Pandaria. As Tyrande prosecutes and Baine defends, the trial becomes less about vengeance and more about examining the very soul of the Horde and the cost of war. Meanwhile, secret machinations unfold, especially involving Sylvanas, Wrathion, and Kairozdormu of the Bronze Dragonflight. In the end, the trial doesn’t reach a true conclusion: Garrosh escapes with Kairozdormu’s help, setting the stage for the Warlords of Draenor expansion and the alternate-timeline storyline that follows.
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Author | William King |
Publication Date | 2016 |
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 15 |
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Illidan reinterprets and expands the events surrounding The Burning Crusade expansion, reframing the narrative through the eyes of Illidan Stormrage himself—and those who circle his chaotic orbit. The novel begins with Illidan’s release from his 10,000-year imprisonment by Malfurion and Tyrande, and follows his campaign to outwit the Burning Legion while appearing to serve them. His ultimate goal? To destroy the Legion from within—a mission no one but he truly understands. As Illidan establishes his power in Outland, he recruits and trains the first generation of demon hunters, including Vandel, whose journey serves as a lens into the brutal, soul-shattering trials required to become one. The story dives deep into Illidan’s inner struggle, showing that his so-called madness is driven by purpose and sacrifice. Meanwhile, Maiev Shadowsong continues her relentless hunt for Illidan, blinded by vengeance. In the end, Illidan’s fate remains tragic and misunderstood—but hints at the vital role he’ll play in future conflicts (Legion, in particular). This book completely recontextualizes Illidan’s role in Warcraft, transforming him from a rogue villain into one of the most complex antiheroes in the entire saga.
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 16 |
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 17 |
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 18 |
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 19 |
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Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 21 |
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Author | Christie Golden |
Publication Date | 2022 |
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Links | amazon |
Series | World of Warcraft series, Book 22 |
Wiki | wiki |
Timeline | Second War, Third War, Shadowlands |
Read | 4/2022 |
Sylvanas is both a biography and a redemption tale, chronicling her full life—from high elf to undead to power-hungry queen and beyond. The story moves back and forth between her past and the events of Shadowlands, providing an intimate look into her thoughts, choices, and contradictions. We see her early life in Quel’Thalas, her fierce love for her siblings, and her rise to become ranger-general. Her horrific death at the hands of Arthas, and the trauma of being raised as a banshee, are presented in visceral detail—deepening our understanding of why she chose vengeance over peace. As the Warchief of the Horde, her increasingly controversial actions (like burning Teldrassil) are recontextualized by her belief in breaking the cycle of suffering—even if it means embracing darkness. In the Shadowlands, Sylvanas’s alliance with the Jailer and her manipulation of Anduin form the emotional climax of the novel. But when she finally sees her soul reunited, she’s forced to confront everything she’s done. The book ends with a mixture of judgment and hope—fitting for one of the most divisive figures in Warcraft history.
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