DIABLO IV prequel novel THE LOST HORADRIM hits shelves next spring

Random House Worlds has announced an officially licensed prequel novel for the forthcoming Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred expansion. The book, The Lost Horadrim (Diablo IV), is written by award-winning author Matthew J. Kirby and will hit shelves shortly before Blizzard Entertainment releases the long-awaited game expansion.

Here’s the book synopsis from Random House Worlds:

The Horadrim must journey to the Skovos Isles to discover the fate of a long-lost expedition in this official prequel novel to Diablo: Lord of Hatred.

In a world culled by Malthael’s Reaping, the Horadric order—humanity’s only hope—struggles to gain a foothold. Within the dimming lands of Sanctuary, evils rise from all corners, and though the Horadrim are used to facing down the darkest spawn of the Burning Hells, they are far less prepared for the depravity arising within their fellow men. But as Lorath, Donan, and Tyrael seek justice and a path forward, the Horadrim’s numbers have dwindled, leaving humanity vulnerable.

Hoping to strengthen the order, Tyrael and the two mages set sail to Skovos, where Sho-Ren and four other Horadrim were sent years ago to establish diplomatic relations with the Askari . . . and were never heard from again. Though the risk is great, the chance of reclaiming kin—as well as the Horadric vault hidden deep within the heart of the isles—remains too great an opportunity to pass up.

At first glance, Skovos appears to have escaped the devastation so many others faced in the wake of the Reaping. But as the Horadrim attempt to ally with the Askari and their rulers, it becomes clear that all is not right on their shores. To gain the trust of the Amazon warriors, Lorath seeks the aid of their captain, Adreona. The Askari leader does not trust the mysterious mainlander, though—not while her soldiers are under constant threat of the Drowned and can ill afford distractions.

To save both their peoples, Lorath and Adreona must learn to battle together against not only the perils before them . . . but also those lurking just beneath the surface.

The Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred expansion adds two new classes to the game, including the Paladin. Blizzard Entertainment announced the release date for the expansion in a cinematic trailer at this year’s Game Awards.

As a bonus, players who pre-purchase the expansion ahead of its April 28, 2026 release date will gain instant access to the Paladin class, which is a fan-favorite from Diablo II.

Matthew J. Kirby’s The Lost Horadrim will release one week before Lord of Hatred, on April 21, 2026. Players who want to get their hands on the book as soon as possible can pre-order now.