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series Reading Order

Ballantyne Books in Order

16 Books
2 Reading orders
1980 – 2024 Published
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Reading order

Where to Start the Ballantyne Series

For the best reading experience, we recommend starting with the original publication order, beginning with the classic A Falcon Flies (1980). This allows you to experience Wilbur Smith's storytelling as it was originally conceived. While the prequel Call of the Raven (2020) takes place first chronologically, it was co-authored decades later and is best appreciated after you are familiar with the main characters and themes of the original quartet.

The Original Ballantyne Quartet

The core of the Ballantyne saga consists of four novels published in the 1980s. These books follow the family's fortunes from the mid-19th century through the late 20th century:

  • A Falcon Flies (1980) – Robyn and Zouga Ballantyne search for their missionary father in 1860s Africa, clashing with slave trader Mungo St. John.
  • Men of Men (1981) – Follows Zouga's search for wealth in the Kimberley diamond mines and the rise of British colonial influence.
  • The Angels Weep (1982) – Divided into two parts, dealing with the Matabele rebellions of the 1890s and the subsequent generations in the 1970s.
  • The Leopard Hunts in Darkness (1984) – Set in post-independence Zimbabwe, following writer Craig Mellow as he returns to his ancestral home.

The Prequel and Courtney Crossovers

In his later years, Wilbur Smith returned to the Ballantyne family, merging their universe with his other famous dynasty, the Courtneys. These newer entries were written with co-authors:

  • The Triumph of the Sun (2005) – The first major crossover, set during the Siege of Khartoum in the 1880s, bringing together Ryder Courtney and Penrod Ballantyne.
  • King of Kings (2019) – Co-authored with Imogen Robertson, this sequel to The Triumph of the Sun continues the joint saga in the late 19th century.
  • Call of the Raven (2020) – Co-authored with Corban Addison, this serves as a direct prequel to A Falcon Flies, focusing on the early life of antagonist Mungo St. John.
  • Fire on the Horizon (2024) – Co-authored with Imogen Robertson, continuing the adventures of both families around the turn of the century.

Chronological Order vs. Publication Order

If you wish to follow the historical timeline of Africa and the Ballantyne family sequentially, use the chronological path. However, be prepared for a shift in writing style, as the newer collaborative works will alternate with Smith's original solo novels.

Frequently Asked

QShould I read the Ballantyne series in chronological or publication order?

We recommend publication order. Starting with A Falcon Flies introduces the family and the African landscape through Wilbur Smith's classic solo voice, which is widely considered the best introduction to the universe.

QHow are the Ballantyne and Courtney series connected?

The two families officially cross paths in The Triumph of the Sun (2005), where members of both dynasties unite during the historical Siege of Khartoum. This crossover continues in King of Kings and Fire on the Horizon.

QWhich Ballantyne books are co-authored?

The original four novels (1980–1984) were written solely by Wilbur Smith. The later books, including King of Kings and Fire on the Horizon (with Imogen Robertson) and Call of the Raven (with Corban Addison), were completed with co-authors.

QIs Call of the Raven a prequel?

Yes, Call of the Raven (2020) is a prequel to the entire series, focusing on the backstory of Mungo St. John prior to the events of A Falcon Flies.

QWhat is the chronological order of all Ballantyne books?

The chronological order is: Call of the Raven, A Falcon Flies, Men of Men, The Triumph of the Sun, King of Kings, Fire on the Horizon, The Angels Weep, and The Leopard Hunts in Darkness.