Game of Thrones Books: Chronological Reading Order

For over two decades, George R.R. Martin's *A Song of Ice and Fire* has captivated readers and cemented its place as a landmark fantasy saga. The series' phenomenal success, fueled by a string of bestselling novels and HBO's groundbreaking adaptation, continues with the popular *House of the Dragon*. Now, with *House of the Dragon* Season 2 streaming, it's the perfect time to explore the rich world of Westeros through Martin's original vision. This guide helps you navigate the *Game of Thrones* books in chronological order, perfect for newcomers and seasoned fans alike.

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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?

George R.R. Martin has published five novels in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* saga, with two more—*The Winds of Winter* and *A Dream of Spring*—still in progress. While fans eagerly await Martin's completion of the series, a creative individual even used ChatGPT to speculate on a possible ending. The uncertainty surrounding Martin's completion of the series adds to its ongoing intrigue.

Beyond the main novels, Martin has enriched the world with companion works: three *Dunk & Egg* novellas (collected in *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms*), three Targaryen-focused novellas (expanded in *Fire & Blood*), and the comprehensive *The World of Ice & Fire*. More details on each below.

Game of Thrones Book Sets

For those who prefer physical copies, collecting the *Game of Thrones* books as a set offers a rewarding experience. Several sets are available, but the leather-bound edition currently featured in an Amazon sale is particularly striking.

A Song of Ice and Fire Box Set

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

How to Read the Game of Thrones Books in Chronological Order

This reading order minimizes spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.

1. Fire & Blood

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*Fire & Blood*, the basis for *House of the Dragon*, chronicles the 300-year Targaryen reign. Unlike the main novels, it's presented as a historical account by Archmaester Gyldayn, providing a unique perspective on events spanning roughly 150 years (with a second volume expected to cover the remaining years).

The book incorporates and expands upon three previously released novellas: *The Princess and the Queen*, *The Rogue Prince*, and *The Sons of the Dragon*. *The Rise of the Dragon*, a condensed illustrated version, is also available.

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2. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

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This collection of three novellas features Ser Duncan the Tall and Aegon V Targaryen, set approximately 90 years before *A Game of Thrones*. While not directly part of the main storyline, it offers compelling adventures and fresh perspectives within the Seven Kingdoms. The novellas included are *The Hedge Knight*, *The Sworn Sword*, and *The Mystery Knight*. An upcoming TV adaptation is also in the works.

3. A Game of Thrones

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The inaugural novel introduces Westeros, its prominent families, and the diverse cast of characters. Set during Robert Baratheon's reign, it initiates the War of the Five Kings, highlighting themes of political intrigue, betrayal, and conflict that define the series. The narrative shifts between multiple viewpoints, including Eddard Stark, Catelyn Stark, Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Bran Stark, Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen.

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4. A Clash of Kings

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The War of the Five Kings continues, with competing claimants vying for power. The narrative follows the Lannisters consolidating their control, Jon Snow's journey with the Night's Watch, and Daenerys's experiences in Essos. Point-of-view characters include Catelyn Stark, Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Bran Stark, Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, Daenerys Targaryen, Theon Greyjoy, and Davos Seaworth.

5. A Storm of Swords

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This novel largely concludes the War of the Five Kings, though lingering conflicts remain. The Stark children face new challenges, Jon Snow ventures beyond the Wall, and Daenerys's leadership skills are tested. Point-of-view characters include Catelyn Stark, Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Bran Stark, Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, Daenerys Targaryen, Davos Seaworth, Jaime Lannister, and Samwell Tarly.

6. A Feast for Crows

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Running concurrently with *A Dance with Dragons*, this novel focuses on characters in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne, as winter approaches. Key characters from previous books—Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen—are absent, allowing for the development of new and returning characters. Point-of-view characters include Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Jaime Lannister, Samwell Tarly, Cersei Lannister, Brienne of Tarth, Aeron Greyjoy, Victarion Greyjoy, Arianne Martell, Asha Greyjoy, Areo Hotah, and Arys Oakheart.

7. A Dance with Dragons

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This novel reunites readers with characters absent from *A Feast for Crows*, picking up after *A Storm of Swords*. It features a new Lord Commander at the Night's Watch, Daenerys navigating power struggles, the Greyjoys' eastward journey, Brienne's reunion with an old friend, Arya's continued training, Tyrion's escape, and the emergence of a new Iron Throne claimant. Point-of-view characters include Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, Daenerys Targaryen, Bran Stark, Arya Stark, Theon Greyjoy, Quentyn Martell, Davos Seaworth, Barriston Selmy, Asha Greyjoy, Cersei Lannister, Jaime Lannister, Jon Connington, Victarion Greyjoy, Areo Hotah, and Melisandre.

Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire

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This companion book provides a comprehensive history of Martin's world, spanning from the arrival of the First Men to the events of *A Game of Thrones*. It features illustrations, family trees, and detailed information on Westeros, Essos, and beyond.

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

Out November 4, 2025

See it at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target

The Winds of Winter

The next installment in the main saga, picking up after *A Dance with Dragons*. Martin has shared preview chapters and insights into the plot, indicating a departure from the television series. He has stated that it will be over 1,500 pages.

A Dream of Spring

The planned final novel in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* saga.

Fire & Blood Volume 2

The second volume of the Targaryen history, covering the remaining 150 years of their reign.

Future Dunk & Egg Novellas

Martin plans to write additional *Dunk & Egg* novellas, but their release depends on the completion of *The Winds of Winter*. He has mentioned potential titles and storylines, including "The She-Wolves" and "The Village Hero". An HBO series based on these novellas is also under development.

For further reading, explore our best fantasy books list or find the perfect reading light.