Game of Thrones Books: Chronological Reading Guide
- By Olivia
- Apr 02,2025
Over the past 27 years, George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" has cemented its place as a cornerstone of modern fiction. The saga has captured the imagination of millions through its series of bestselling novels and the groundbreaking HBO adaptation, "Game of Thrones." The cultural impact of Martin's work continues to thrive, bolstered by the success of the follow-up series, "House of the Dragon."
With the full second season of "House of the Dragon" now available to stream, it's the perfect time to explore the rich world of Westeros through the original source material. For those new to the "A Song of Ice and Fire" novels and its companion books, here's a comprehensive guide on how to read the Game of Thrones books in chronological order.
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- Game of Thrones books in chronological order
- Game of Thrones books by release date
- Upcoming GoT books
How Many Game of Thrones Books Are There in the Series?
George R.R. Martin has published five novels in his "A Song of Ice and Fire" saga. He is currently working on two more volumes: "The Winds of Winter" and "A Dream of Spring." While fans eagerly await these books, some have even used AI tools like ChatGPT to envision possible endings. However, there's uncertainty about whether Martin will complete the series himself.
In addition to the main saga, Martin has released several companion works. These include three "Dunk & Egg" novellas, collected in "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" (2015), three Targaryen-focused novellas, expanded in "Fire & Blood" (2018), and a comprehensive world guide titled "The World of Ice & Fire." More details on these works are provided below.
Game of Thrones Book Sets
For fans who cherish physical books, purchasing a set of the Game of Thrones books is a great way to immerse yourself in the series. One of the most visually appealing options is the leather-bound edition currently on sale at Amazon.
A Song of Ice and Fire Box Set
This set contains the five published books and is currently available at a significant discount.
- $85.00 save 46%
- $46.00 at Amazon
How to Read the Game of Thrones Books in Chronological Order
For those new to the series, the following brief plot synopses are designed to provide an overview with minimal spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.
- Fire & Blood
Fire & Blood: 300 Years Before A Game of Thrones
"Fire & Blood," the source material for HBO's "House of the Dragon," chronicles the 300-year reign of House Targaryen in Westeros. Unlike the main series, this book is presented as a historical account by Archmaester Gyldayn, who lived at the end of the Targaryen rule and into Robert Baratheon's reign. The events covered span roughly 150 years, with the second half of the Targaryen dynasty expected to be detailed in "Fire & Blood Volume 2."
"Fire & Blood" includes and expands upon three previously published novellas: "The Princess and the Queen" (2013), "The Rogue Prince" (2014), and "The Sons of the Dragon" (2017). Additionally, "The Rise of the Dragon" offers a condensed and illustrated version of this history.
- A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
This collection features three novellas centered on Ser Duncan the Tall (Dunk) and his squire Aegon V Targaryen (Egg). Set approximately 90 years before "A Game of Thrones," these stories will inspire the next Game of Thrones TV series, also titled "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms." While not essential to the main plot, they offer delightful additional adventures in the Seven Kingdoms.
The collection includes "The Hedge Knight" (1998), "The Sworn Sword" (2003), and "The Mystery Knight" (2010).
- A Game of Thrones
A Game of Thrones
The first novel in the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, published in 1996, introduces readers to the world of Westeros. Set during Robert Baratheon's reign, it follows the aftermath of Robert's Rebellion and the fall of the Targaryen dynasty, leading to the War of the Five Kings. The narrative is told through alternating points of view, featuring characters like Eddard Stark, Catelyn Stark, and Daenerys Targaryen.
- A Clash of Kings
A Clash of Kings
This sequel continues the War of the Five Kings, with various factions vying for power. The story follows multiple characters, including Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen, as they navigate their respective challenges.
- A Storm of Swords
A Storm of Swords
The third novel brings the War of the Five Kings to a close, focusing on the Stark children, Jon Snow's adventures beyond the Wall, and Daenerys's journey in the East. The narrative continues to alternate between multiple perspectives, including new characters like Jaime Lannister and Samwell Tarly.
- A Feast for Crows
A Feast for Crows
Set concurrently with "A Dance with Dragons," this book focuses on the political machinations in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne. It introduces new point-of-view characters while some familiar ones, like Jon Snow and Daenerys, are reserved for the next book.
- A Dance with Dragons
A Dance with Dragons
This novel brings back the characters missing from "A Feast for Crows" and continues the story from "A Storm of Swords." It covers events beyond those in "A Feast for Crows," making it the furthest along in the series' timeline. The narrative follows a wide array of characters, including Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen.
Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire
The World of Ice and Fire
This companion book serves as a comprehensive guide to the world of "A Song of Ice and Fire." It includes detailed histories, family trees, and illustrations, making it an excellent resource for fans looking to delve deeper into Martin's universe.
How to Read the Game of Thrones Books by Release Date
- 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 Game of Thrones Books
A Feast for Crows: The Illustrated Edition
Martin has announced the upcoming release of "A Feast for Crows: The Illustrated Edition," set for November 4, 2025. This follows the illustrated edition of the third book, offering fans a visually rich experience.
The Winds of Winter
The sixth book in the series, "The Winds of Winter," is eagerly anticipated. Martin has shared preview chapters and confirmed that it will feature perspectives from characters like Tyrion, Cersei, and Arya. Despite being "13 years late," Martin assures fans that it remains a priority, with an estimated length of over 1,500 pages.
A Dream of Spring
The final book in the series, "A Dream of Spring," is planned to conclude the epic saga, provided Martin completes and publishes it.
Fire & Blood Volume 2
Martin is also working on the second volume of "Fire & Blood," which will cover the remaining 150 years of the Targaryen dynasty.
Future Dunk & Egg Novellas
Martin has expressed his intention to write more "Dunk & Egg" novellas, with plans to chronicle their entire lives. The next novella, set in Winterfell and involving the Stark family, is tentatively titled "The She-Wolves." Another story, "The Village Hero," is set in the Riverlands. These novellas will follow the completion of "The Winds of Winter."
An HBO series based on the "Dunk & Egg" novellas, titled "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms," is in development, with the first season adapting "The Hedge Knight." The show is expected to premiere on Max and HBO in late 2025.
For more reading recommendations, explore our list of the best fantasy books or consider investing in one of the best reading lights to enhance your reading experience.
