Book of Tyrael

The Book of Tyrael is a 148-page volume full of original art, lore, and stories about the Diablo universe, released in October 2013. This in-game piece of merchandise is formatted as though written and illustrated by the former Archangel Tyrael during his time as a mortal, after events of Diablo 3 classic. It fills out the world lore and story leading up to events in the Reaper of Souls expansion pack with new in-world fiction and copious illustrations.

Topics covered in the book include events in the High Heavens after Diablo's defeat as the Prime Evil, the re-formation of the Horadric order as guards of the Black Soulstone, the return of the Nephalem, and more.

The BoT is a sort of sequel or companion to the Book of Cain, which was released before Diablo 3 and set up the story and lore leading into that game.

Product Description

Book of Tyrael cover art.

Blizzard's description of the book, pre-release.[1]

Emblazoned with the emblem of the Horadrim and featuring over 140 pages of tantalizing text, Diablo III: Book of Tyrael is a stunning follow-up to Diablo III: DiabloWikiBook of Cain, delving even further into the realm of Sanctuary and the individuals who shaped its fate. In this beautifully-illustrated and comprehensive tome, the Archangel of Wisdom reveals never-before-known secrets about the history of the world, the dark threats that yet face mankind, and his decision to join the ranks of humanity as a mortal. It also includes letters from Leah and additional fragments of Cain’s writings, all curated by Tyrael as he weaves together a series of complex and fascinating stories for future generations.
In addition, Diablo III: Book of Tyrael features a fully removable illustration of the Leoric family tree and other influential characters from Old Tristram including Deckard Cain, Prince Albrecht, Archbishop Lazarus, King Leoric, Prince Aidan, Queen Asylla, Leah, and Adria.

From the Amazon.com product listing.[2]

One of the most exciting and visceral action role-playing games in recent memory, Diablo® has become a worldwide gaming phenomenon. Diablo III: Book of Tyrael takes fans even further into the universe with a detailed and beautifully crafted artifact that focuses on the renowned champion Tyrael. As a former archangel of the High Heavens, he ranks among the most important and influential characters in the Diablo franchise.

Here, in this illustrated and comprehensive tome, he reveals never-before-known secrets about the history of the world, the dark threats that yet face mankind, and his decision to join the ranks of humanity as a mortal. Featuring stunning original art throughout, this beautifully illustrated follow-up to Diablo III: Book of Cain will also feature letters from Leah and additional fragments of Cain’s writings, all curated by Tyrael as he weaves together a complex and fascinating story for the members of the Horadrim.

Contributing Artists

The Book of Cain featured the work of dozens of prominent artists along with text and story by Blizzard's writers. No full roster has yet been revealed for the Book of Tyrael, but it seems likely many of the same artists from the BoC contributed work. They included:

Media Coverage

Blizzard made a concerted publicity push for the Book of Cain, with numerous artist interviews and releases. We've seen far less media push for the Book of Tyrael thus far, and there isn't any word about a book signing after release, as we saw for the Book of Cain.[3]

Deckard Cain's Journal

Original cover art from June 2011.

When the Book of Cain was announced fans immediately noted the similarities between this product and Deckard Cain's Journal, a 34-page, illustration-packed diary-like creation that Blizzard posted on the Diablo 3 site shortly after the game's reveal.

That journal is a first person account, by Deckard Cain, of the plot events of Diablo I and Diablo II, written and illustrated in similar fashion to the Books of Cain and Tyrael. Consult it for an online teaser of similar material to the published works.

Gallery

Various sample images from the Book of Tyrael.

Front cover.
Front and back cover.