Throne of Glass Series Order: How to Read Sarah J. Maas’ Epic Fantasy Series
Discover the complete Throne of Glass series order, with tips on reading, character insights, and tandem reading guidance for a perfect experience.
Should you follow the publication order or chronological order? And what about Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn—do they really need to be read together?
In this guide, we’ll break down the recommended reading order, explain the difference between publication and chronological order, and share tips on navigating the tandem read.
Why You Should Read the Throne of Glass Series
The Throne of Glass series follows Celaena Sardothien, a young assassin with a complicated past, as she navigates deadly competitions, political intrigue, and powerful magic.
Full of action, heart, and incredible character growth, this series offers an unforgettable journey.
1. What is the Best Reading Order for the Throne of Glass Series?
If you’re new to the series or looking to re-read, the best reading order for the Throne of Glass series depends on the type of experience you want.
Some readers prefer to go in chronological order to follow the story as it unfolds in the world of Erilea. Others suggest following the publication order for the emotional twists and turns as the series was first released.
Recommended by fans: Start with Throne of Glass and leave The Assassin’s Blade until later, so you don’t spoil some key events. Here’s how the orders differ.
2. Chronological Reading Order of the Throne of Glass Series
For readers who want the story in a straightforward timeline, the chronological order is:
- The Assassin’s Blade (Novellas)
- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- Heir of Fire
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms / Tower of Dawn (tandem read)
- Kingdom of Ash
Reading in chronological order allows you to follow Celaena’s journey from her early days in The Assassin’s Blade to her rise in Kingdom of Ash. However, starting with the novellas might spoil some of the intrigue in Throne of Glass itself.
3. Publication Reading Order of the Throne of Glass Series
If you want to experience the series as Sarah J. Maas released it, the publication order is:
- Throne of Glass (2012)
- Crown of Midnight (2013)
- Heir of Fire (2014)
- Queen of Shadows (2015)
- Empire of Storms (2016)
- Tower of Dawn (2017)
- Kingdom of Ash (2018)
- The Assassin’s Blade (2014) (Prequel)
Most fans recommend this order for first-time readers, as it keeps the surprises intact and the emotional impact stronger.
4. How to Do the Tandem Read of Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn
The Throne of Glass series has a unique challenge: the tandem read. Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn happen simultaneously, following different characters. If you want the most immersive experience, the tandem read is a must.
Here’s a brief guide on how to alternate between the two books:
- Read Empire of Storms Chapters 1-5.
- Switch to Tower of Dawn Chapters 1-3.
- Continue alternating chapters between the two books according to your reading plan.
The tandem read allows you to experience both storylines as they occur, without missing critical moments.
5. Full List of Books and Chapters in the Throne of Glass Series
If you’re ready to dive in, here’s the complete list of all the books and chapters in the Throne of Glass series:
- The Assassin’s Blade (Prequel novellas)
- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- Heir of Fire
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms
- Tower of Dawn
- Kingdom of Ash
Each book has its own arc, but they all tie together beautifully into the grand epic of Celaena’s journey.
6. Spoiler-Free Tips for Enjoying the Series
To avoid spoilers, it’s essential to follow the recommended reading order. Starting with The Assassin’s Blade may reveal too much about Celaena’s backstory before you’ve met her in Throne of Glass. Instead, many fans suggest saving it until after Crown of Midnight or even Heir of Fire.
If you’re doing the tandem read of Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn, it’s also important to switch between chapters carefully to avoid plot confusion.
7. Meet Celaena Sardothien: A Character You’ll Love
At the heart of the Throne of Glass series is Celaena Sardothien, one of the most complex and relatable characters in young adult fantasy. As a teenage assassin, she’s tough and fiercely independent, yet vulnerable beneath her hardened exterior.
Celaena’s journey from slavery to power, from fighting for her freedom to defending the world, makes her one of Sarah J. Maas’ most beloved characters. Through her trials, Celaena learns to accept both the light and darkness in her past.
8. Where Can You Find the Throne of Glass Books?
All books in the Throne of Glass series are widely available in bookstores and online. You can also find them in digital formats like Kindle or as audiobooks.
- Throne of Glass (Amazon)
- Crown of Midnight (Amazon)
- The Assassin’s Blade (Amazon)
- Heir of Fire (Amazon)
- Queen of Shadows (Amazon)
- Empire of Storms* (Amazon)
- Tower of Dawn* (Amazon)
- Kingdom of Ash (Amazon)
9. Other Series by Sarah J. Maas: What to Read After Throne of Glass
Once you’ve finished the Throne of Glass series, don’t miss Maas’s other incredible fantasy series:
- A Court of Thorns and Roses (romantic fantasy with fae politics)
- Crescent City (adult fantasy with urban settings and epic magic)
Both series have their own unique magic and intricate plots that fans of Throne of Glass will enjoy.
Conclusion: Why the Throne of Glass Series is Worth the Read
The Throne of Glass series offers everything you could want in an epic fantasy: complex characters, heart-stopping action, and a world full of magic. Whether you’re reading it for the first time or coming back for a re-read, the adventures of Celaena Sardothien are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
