How to Read the Ruins Universe: Recommended Starting Points
For readers jumping into the universe co-authored by Christopher Hopper and J.N. Chaney, there are two primary entry points depending on your preference for narrative scope and setting.
Option 1: Publication Order (Recommended Entry)
Starting with Ruins of the Galaxy is the most common recommendation. Although it occurs chronologically after the events of the prequel series, it introduces readers to the wider galactic state, the advanced tech, and the core alien political conflicts first. Reading in publication order allows you to experience the mystery of the ancient artifacts and the history of the galaxy exactly as the authors originally designed and revealed them.
Option 2: Chronological Order
If you prefer a linear, ground-up perspective on how the galaxy reached its current state, you can begin with the prequel series, Ruins of the Earth. This series starts on Earth with human soldiers discovering ancient secrets in Antarctica, leading directly to the events that eventually set up the galactic-scale conflicts seen in the main series.
Ruins of the Galaxy: Publication Order of Books
This is the main nine-book series following Lieutenant Adonis Magnus and the 79th Recon Team. It was published rapidly between 2019 and 2020:
- Ruins of the Galaxy (2019) – Note: Also published under the title "The Eve of War".
- Galactic Breach (2019) – Note: Also published under the title "Honor Bound".
- Gateway to War (2019) – Note: Also published under the title "Last of the Luma".
- Void Horizon (2019)
- Black Labyrinth (2019)
- Imminent Failure (2020)
- Terminal Fallout (2020)
- Quantum Assault (2020)
- Rise of the Gladias (2020)
Ruins of the Earth: The Prequel Series
To fully understand the background of the galaxy, the origins of the advanced technology, and how Earth fits into the broader interstellar picture, read the prequel series. It follows Marine Raider Patrick "Wic" Finnegan:
- Ruins of the Earth (2020)
- Gods and Men (2020)
- Phantom Deadfall (2021)
- Decayed Legacy (2021)
- Valley of the Dead (2021)
- Fire and Fury (2021)
- Legacy of the Fallen (2026)
- Ashes of Halcyon (2026)
What to Know Before You Start
The Ruins universe blends classic space opera aesthetics reminiscent of Star Wars with the gritty, grounded combat elements of military sci-fi like Halo. The co-authors divide their strengths well: Hopper brings detailed world-building, ancient history, and alien mythology, while Chaney injects fast-paced, high-stakes military action and humor. The audiobooks, narrated by the award-winning R.C. Bray, are highly celebrated in the space opera community and earned an Audie Award finalist nomination for Best Science Fiction.