Introduction to the Throne of Glass Series
The Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas is one of the most beloved fantasy series of the 21st century. Following the journey of Celaena Sardothien, an assassin who finds herself tangled in political intrigue, dark magic, and dangerous enemies, the series has captivated readers worldwide. With multiple books in the series, it’s essential to read them in the correct order to fully understand the storyline and character development.
In this guide, we will answer the crucial question: what order to read Throne of Glass? Whether you’re a new reader starting the series or someone looking to revisit the books, we’ll provide the best approach to enjoy the series in its intended sequence.
What is the Correct Reading Order for Throne of Glass?
Publication Order vs. Chronological Order
When it comes to reading Throne of Glass, there are two primary reading orders: publication order and chronological order.
- Throne of Glass Books in Order (Publication Order):
This is the order in which the books were originally published. It allows readers to experience the development of the plot and characters as the author intended. Here’s the reading order for Throne of Glass based on the publication timeline:- Throne of Glass (Book 1)
- Crown of Midnight (Book 2)
- Heir of Fire (Book 3)
- Queen of Shadows (Book 4)
- Empire of Storms (Book 5)
- Tower of Dawn (Book 6) – This book runs parallel to the events of Book 5.
- Kingdom of Ash (Book 7)
- Throne of Glass Chronological Reading Order:
The Throne of Glass chronological reading order is slightly different as it follows the timeline of events in the fictional world. While reading in this order can provide a deeper understanding of certain events and character backgrounds, it’s not the most common method. The chronological sequence is as follows:- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- Heir of Fire
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms
- Tower of Dawn
- Kingdom of Ash
While the chronological order offers an alternative perspective on the series, most readers recommend the publication order for an optimal experience.

How to Read Throne of Glass: Tips and Recommendations
Why Following the Book Order Matters
When deciding the order of books in the Throne of Glass series, it’s crucial to remember that Maas’ storytelling evolves with each book. Each novel builds upon the last, revealing key plot points, character arcs, and world-building details that can be missed if read out of sequence. Following the publication order ensures that readers fully appreciate the development of Throne of Glass characters, especially Celaena’s transformation and the evolving stakes of the plot.
Reading the books in the correct order also allows readers to engage with the emotional and narrative highs of the series as they were intended, creating a more fulfilling experience.
Throne of Glass Full Reading Order
For those who want a Throne of Glass book list that is easy to follow, here’s a detailed guide:
- Throne of Glass – The beginning of Celaena’s journey, introducing the world and characters.
- Crown of Midnight – The darkening of Celaena’s path as her responsibilities and secrets grow.
- Heir of Fire – New alliances, deeper lore, and higher stakes.
- Queen of Shadows – Action-packed with significant character development.
- Empire of Storms – Intensifying conflicts and revelations that change everything.
- Tower of Dawn – A companion book focusing on different characters but still important for the full story.
- Kingdom of Ash – The climactic conclusion to the series.
Common Questions About Reading Throne of Glass
Can I Read Throne of Glass Out of Order?
While technically possible, reading Throne of Glass out of order is not recommended. The Throne of Glass books timeline is designed to flow from one book to the next, with important events building upon each other. Skipping ahead or reading out of sequence can lead to confusion or spoilers, especially when it comes to character motivations and plot twists.
Which Book Should You Start With?
The first book in the series, Throne of Glass, is where you should start. From there, continue with the Throne of Glass series recommended order to get the most out of the books. Some readers may wonder if they can jump into later books, but it’s crucial to understand the foundation laid out in the first few novels before tackling the more intense, later storylines.
Conclusion
In summary, the best way to read Throne of Glass is to follow the publication order for the most seamless reading experience. This approach allows you to appreciate the character development, plot twists, and world-building that Maas has carefully crafted. Additionally, using the Throne of Glass series reading tips outlined in this article will help you immerse yourself fully in the world of Celaena Sardothien.
Whether you’re a new reader or a returning fan, following the recommended Throne of Glass full reading order will ensure that you enjoy the series as it was intended. Happy reading!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I read the books in chronological order?
Yes, but it’s not the recommended method. The Throne of Glass books in order (publication order) offers a more engaging experience for most readers.
2. Is Tower of Dawn important to the main series?
Yes, while it focuses on different characters, it is crucial for understanding the full story arc and setting up the final book, Kingdom of Ash.
3. Can I start with the later books if I’m not interested in the beginning?
It’s not recommended to skip ahead, as early books provide important character and plot development that will enhance your understanding of the later story.
4. What is the best order to read the Throne of Glass books for first-time readers?
Follow the Throne of Glass publication order for the best experience.