How to Read the Game of Thrones Books in Chronological Order

A Song of Ice and Fire: A Comprehensive Reading Guide for the Game of Thrones Books

George R.R. Martin's epic fantasy saga, A Song of Ice and Fire, has captivated readers for over two decades, achieving widespread recognition through its bestselling novels and HBO's hugely successful adaptation. The enduring popularity continues, fueled by the success of House of the Dragon. With House of the Dragon Season 2 now streaming, it's the perfect time to delve into the source material. This guide outlines the optimal chronological reading order for all the Game of Thrones books.

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Chronological Reading Order | Release Order | Upcoming Books | Total Number of Books

George R.R. Martin has published five novels in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, with two more – The Winds of Winter and A Dream of Spring – currently in progress. The completion of the series remains uncertain. Independently, a ChatGPT experiment attempted to finish the series, offering a possible conclusion.

Martin has also authored several companion books, including three Dunk & Egg novellas (collected in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms), three Targaryen-focused novellas (expanded in Fire & Blood), and a world compendium, The World of Ice & Fire. Details below.

Game of Thrones Book Sets

For physical copies, consider a boxed set. Various editions exist, but a leather-bound version is currently featured in an Amazon sale.

A Song of Ice and Fire Box Set

Contains all five novels.

Chronological Reading Order

(Minor spoilers regarding broad plot points and character introductions.)

1. Fire & Blood: A history of House Targaryen's 300-year reign, serving as the basis for House of the Dragon. Narrated by Archmaester Gyldayn, it covers the first 150 years, with a second volume anticipated. Available on Amazon.

2. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: Three novellas featuring Ser Duncan the Tall and Aegon V Targaryen, set approximately 90 years before A Game of Thrones. While not essential to the main storyline, it offers enriching adventures and perspectives. Available on Amazon.

3. A Game of Thrones: The inaugural novel, introducing Westeros, its prominent houses, and key characters. It sets the stage for the War of the Five Kings. Available on Amazon.

4. A Clash of Kings: Continues the War of the Five Kings, showcasing various storylines and character arcs. Available on Amazon.

5. A Storm of Swords: Essentially concludes the War of the Five Kings, though conflicts linger. Features significant character developments and plot advancements. Available on Amazon.

6. A Feast for Crows: Runs concurrently with A Dance with Dragons, focusing on characters in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne. Key characters from previous books are absent. Available on Amazon.

7. A Dance with Dragons: Reintroduces characters absent from A Feast for Crows and continues the narrative beyond the events of A Feast for Crows. Available on Amazon.

Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire

A comprehensive companion book detailing Westeros's history, geography, and prominent families. A visually rich resource. Available on Amazon.

Release Order

A Game of Thrones (1996) A Clash of Kings (1999) A Storm of Swords (2000) A Feast for Crows (2005) A Dance with Dragons (2011) The World of Ice & Fire (2014) A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (2015) Fire & Blood (2018)

Upcoming Books

• A Feast for Crows: The Illustrated Edition: Scheduled for November 4, 2025.
• The Winds of Winter: The next installment in the main series.
• A Dream of Spring: The planned final novel.
• Fire & Blood Volume 2: A continuation of the Targaryen history.
• Future Dunk & Egg Novellas: Additional novellas are planned.

An HBO series based on A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is also in development.

For further reading, explore other fantasy book lists or find a good reading light.