"Dune Messiah" by Frank Herbert

This, the second installment of the Dune series follows Paul Atreides from his self-made Emperorship to his disappearance from humanity. Much of this book follows the woven stories of the remaining Atreides family as Paul navigates the necessary steps to ensure the continuation or humankind in the universe. He is now, very much, a God-head and supreme ruler but his visions show him the dangers of letting the world fight in his name. What unfolds is a delicate dance, attempting to keep his self-named "golden path" open. Ultimately, he sacrifices his "life" for the good of humanity. The parallels to religion, government, classism and environmental abuses abound. Though less loved by many readers, this tale of the fall from grace was, and is, an important allegory. Herbert warns the reader of giving another unbridled trust and power.