Game of Thrones Books: Chronological Reading Guide

Over the past 27 years, George R.R. Martin's epic fantasy series, "A Song of Ice and Fire," has firmly established itself as a monumental work of fiction. This saga captured the world's imagination through its bestselling novels and HBO's groundbreaking adaptation, "Game of Thrones," further cementing its place in pop culture. The success of HBO's follow-up series, "House of the Dragon," continues to keep the world of Westeros at the forefront of fans' minds.

Now, with all of "House of the Dragon: Season 2" available to stream, it's the perfect opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Westeros through the pages penned by its creator. For those new to the series, we've crafted a comprehensive guide on how to navigate 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, with two more, "The Winds of Winter" and "A Dream of Spring," eagerly awaited by fans. Amidst the anticipation for these final volumes, some have even used AI tools like ChatGPT to envision potential endings. However, there's uncertainty about whether Martin will complete the series himself.

In addition to the main saga, Martin has enriched the universe with several companion works. These include three Dunk & Egg novellas (compiled in "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" in 2015), three Targaryen-focused novellas (expanded in "Fire & Blood" in 2018), and a comprehensive world guide, "The World of Ice & Fire."

Game of Thrones Book Sets

For enthusiasts of physical books, collecting the "Game of Thrones" series in a set offers a rewarding experience. One particularly striking option is the leather-bound set, currently featured in Amazon's ongoing book sale.

A Song of Ice and Fire Box Set

52Contains the set of 5 books.$85.00 save 46%$46.00 at Amazon

How to Read the Game of Thrones Books in Chronological Order

These summaries are designed for newcomers and contain only mild spoilers.

1. Fire & Blood

Fire & Blood: 300 Years Before A Game of Thrones

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"Fire & Blood," the basis for HBO's "House of the Dragon," chronicles the 300-year reign of House Targaryen over Westeros. Unlike the main series, it's not told through the eyes of characters but as a historical account penned by Archmaester Gyldayn. The narrative begins 300 years before "A Game of Thrones" and covers roughly the first 150 years of Targaryen rule, with the second volume expected to cover the remainder.

Every Dragon in Game of Thrones: House of the Dragon

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Covering the reigns of six Targaryen kings, "Fire & Blood" includes the pivotal event known as the Dance of the Dragons, depicted in "House of the Dragon." It expands on previously published novellas: "The Princess and the Queen," "The Rogue Prince," and "The Sons of the Dragon." A more concise and illustrated version, "The Rise of the Dragon," was also released.

2. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

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"A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" compiles three novellas about Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire, Aegon V Targaryen, set 90 years before "A Game of Thrones." While not essential to the main storyline, these tales offer additional adventures in the Seven Kingdoms and will inspire the next "Game of Thrones" TV adaptation.

The novellas included are: "The Hedge Knight," "The Sworn Sword," and "The Mystery Knight."

3. A Game of Thrones

A Game of Thrones

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Published in 1996, "A Game of Thrones" introduces readers to the world of Westeros during Robert Baratheon's reign, post-Targaryen dynasty. It sets the stage for the War of the Five Kings, with the narrative weaving through political intrigue and familial conflicts through multiple viewpoints including Eddard Stark, Catelyn Stark, and Daenerys Targaryen.

Every IGN Game of Thrones Review

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4. A Clash of Kings

A Clash of Kings

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"A Clash of Kings" continues the saga with the War of the Five Kings intensifying. The narrative expands to include new perspectives such as Theon Greyjoy and Davos Seaworth, alongside familiar characters navigating their challenges.

5. A Storm of Swords

A Storm of Swords

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In "A Storm of Swords," the War of the Five Kings nears its end, but conflicts linger. The Stark children face their trials, Jon Snow explores beyond the Wall, and Daenerys strengthens her position in the East.

6. A Feast for Crows

A Feast for Crows

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"A Feast for Crows" runs parallel to "A Dance with Dragons," focusing on new and returning characters in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne. Martin split the narrative due to its size, with "Feast" covering half the characters' stories.

7. A Dance with Dragons

A Dance with Dragons

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"A Dance with Dragons" reunites readers with beloved characters absent from "Feast," advancing their stories post-"Storm of Swords." It introduces new developments and characters, moving the saga forward.

Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire

The World of Ice and Fire

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"The World of Ice & Fire" serves as a comprehensive guide to the universe, detailing the history from the Dawn Age to the Targaryen reign and beyond. It's a must-have for fans wanting to delve deeper into the lore.

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 enhanced reading experience.

Out November 4, 2025

A Feast for Crows: The Illustrated Edition

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The Winds of Winter

"The Winds of Winter," the sixth book in the series, is eagerly awaited. Martin has shared numerous updates, including preview chapters and plans for the narrative to diverge further from the TV series. Despite being "13 years late," Martin assures fans it remains a priority.

A Dream of Spring

The final installment, "A Dream of Spring," is set to conclude the saga if completed by Martin.

Fire & Blood Volume 2

Martin is also working on the second volume of "Fire & Blood," which will cover the remaining years of the Targaryen dynasty.

Future Dunk & Egg Novellas

Martin plans to write more Dunk & Egg novellas, with two in development: "The She-Wolves," set in Winterfell, and "The Village Hero," set in the Riverlands. He has ideas for several more stories, including "The Sellsword," "The Champion," "The Kingsguard," and "The Lord Commander."

An HBO series based on the Dunk & Egg adventures, titled "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms," is in development, with Season 1 adapting "The Hedge Knight." The series is expected to premiere on Max and HBO in late 2025.

For more, check out the best fantasy books reading list or pick up one of the best reading lights.