Manticore Ascendant

The Manticore Ascendant series invites readers into a world of intrigue, tactical brilliance, and the high-stakes drama of interstellar politics. Set in the same universe as David Weber’s Honor Harrington series, this prequel trilogy takes us back to the earliest days of the Manticoran Star Kingdom, a rising power on the edge of a galaxy brimming with tension and potential conflict.

At its heart, Manticore Ascendant is a story of ambition and the forging of an empire. It follows the journey of young officers and brilliant strategists who rise through the ranks of a fledgling military force, facing challenges that demand more than just skill—decisions that will shape the future of their world. With action that resonates across star systems and personal stakes that feel all too human, the series balances its expansive, world-building scope with deeply personal character arcs.

The novels are a masterclass in military science fiction, weaving together tense space battles, political maneuvering, and nuanced relationships that echo the complexities of real-world power dynamics. The authors’ collaboration blends Weber’s signature strategic depth with Zahn’s sharp character-driven storytelling and Tom Pope’s fresh perspective, resulting in a narrative that feels both grand in its scope and intimate in its execution.

Manticore Ascendant consists of four books — series is set to expand with the upcoming release of one more book. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.