Reading Order
TeixcalaanTeixcalaan Reading Order
Arkady Martine's Teixcalaan series is a complete two-book space opera set in an interstellar empire. The story begins when Mahit Dzmare, the ambassador from a small independent mining station, arrives at the empire's capital to investigate the death of her predecessor. The two novels must be read in order; both follow Mahit and Three Seagrass across two distinct crises.
Where to start
A Memory Called Empire
Complete Teixcalaan Book List
- 1Buy
A Memory Called Empire
Arkady Martine·2019·Book 1 — Ambassador Mahit Dzmare arrives at Teixcalaan's capital and discovers her predecessor was murdered; won the Hugo Award - 2Buy
A Desolation Called Peace
Arkady Martine·2021·Book 2 — Three Seagrass investigates an alien contact scenario at the edge of empire; won the Hugo Award
Teixcalaan — Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Memory Called Empire reading order?
Read A Memory Called Empire (2019) first, then A Desolation Called Peace (2021). The Teixcalaan series by Arkady Martine is a complete duology — both books must be read in order, though A Desolation Called Peace features a partially different cast.
How many Teixcalaan books are there?
The Teixcalaan series by Arkady Martine currently consists of two books: A Memory Called Empire (2019) and A Desolation Called Peace (2021). Both won the Hugo Award for Best Novel. Martine has indicated possible future books but none are announced.
What is A Memory Called Empire about?
A Memory Called Empire follows Mahit Dzmare, the ambassador from Lsel Station — a small independent mining station — who arrives at the capital of the Teixcalaan empire to investigate the death of her predecessor. She carries a neurological implant containing a copy of her predecessor's memories, which may be outdated and failing. The novel is a political thriller about empire, identity, and the seduction of assimilation.
Is A Memory Called Empire science fiction or fantasy?
A Memory Called Empire is classified as science fiction — a space opera set in an interstellar empire — but its sensibility and prose style are closer to literary fiction and political fantasy. Arkady Martine is a Byzantine historian, and the novel draws heavily on Byzantine imperial court structure and culture.
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