How to Read the Game of Thrones Books in Chronological 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 cornerstone of modern fantasy literature. Its enduring popularity, fueled by the bestselling novels and the phenomenal success of HBO's *Game of Thrones*, continues with the captivating *House of the Dragon*. Now, with *House of the Dragon* Season 2 streaming, it's the perfect time to delve into the source material and experience Westeros through the eyes of its creator.

This guide provides a chronological reading order for all the *Game of Thrones* books, perfect for newcomers and seasoned fans alike. (Note: These plot summaries contain only minor spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.)

**Jump to:**

• 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*—currently in progress. While fans eagerly await Martin's completion of the series, a ChatGPT-generated ending has sparked considerable discussion. The question of whether Martin will finish the series himself remains a topic of much debate among fans.

Beyond the main saga, Martin has expanded the *ASoIaF* universe 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 world compendium, *The World of Ice & Fire*. More details on each are 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. While various sets exist, the leather-bound edition currently featured in an Amazon book sale stands out for its exceptional presentation.

A Song of Ice and Fire Box Set

Contains the complete five-book set. [ttpp]

How to Read the Game of Thrones Books in Chronological Order

1. Fire & Blood
   [ttpp] This historical account of House Targaryen's 300-year reign in Westeros serves as the basis for *House of the Dragon*. Unlike the main novels, *Fire & Blood* is presented as a historical record by Archmaester Gyldayn, providing a unique perspective on events spanning approximately 150 years (the first half of the Targaryen reign, with the second half planned for a sequel). While Gyldayn's writing is situated around the start of *A Song of Ice and Fire*, the events described begin 300 years prior to *A Game of Thrones*. It incorporates and expands upon three previously published novellas.
2. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
   [ttpp] This collection of three novellas follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall and Aegon V Targaryen, set roughly 90 years before *A Game of Thrones*. While not directly part of the main storyline, these novellas offer engaging supplemental reading and new perspectives within the Seven Kingdoms. The collection is also the source material for the upcoming TV adaptation of the same name.
3. A Game of Thrones
   [ttpp] The inaugural novel introduces readers to Westeros, its powerful houses, and the diverse cast of characters that populate the series. Set during Robert Baratheon's reign, it sets in motion the War of the Five Kings, showcasing themes of political intrigue, betrayal, and conflict that define the series.
4. A Clash of Kings
   [ttpp] The War of the Five Kings continues, with various claimants vying for the Iron Throne. The story unfolds across multiple locations, showing the conflicts and struggles of numerous characters.
5. A Storm of Swords
   [ttpp] This novel largely concludes the War of the Five Kings, although lingering conflicts and power struggles remain. The Stark children face numerous challenges, Jon Snow ventures beyond the Wall, and Daenerys continues her journey in the East.
6. A Feast for Crows
   [ttpp] This novel runs concurrently with *A Dance with Dragons*, focusing on characters in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne, as winter approaches Westeros. Key characters from previous books are absent, allowing new and returning characters to take center stage.
7. A Dance with Dragons
   [ttpp] This novel reunites readers with characters absent from *A Feast for Crows* and expands upon events from *A Storm of Swords*. The story progresses beyond the events of *A Feast for Crows*, making it the chronologically furthest point in the series.

Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire

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

The Winds of Winter

The next installment in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* saga, *The Winds of Winter*, will pick up where *A Dance with Dragons* left off. Martin has shared previews and updates, promising a significant departure from the television series.

A Dream of Spring

This will be the final book in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* series, pending completion by Martin.

Fire & Blood Volume 2

Martin has confirmed he is working on a second volume of *Fire & Blood*, continuing the history of House Targaryen.

Future Dunk & Egg Novellas

Martin plans to write more *Dunk & Egg* novellas, but their release is contingent upon the completion of *The Winds of Winter*. He has discussed potential storylines and titles for future installments.

An HBO series based on the *Dunk & Egg* novellas is in development, with Season 1 adapting *The Hedge Knight*. The show is expected to premiere on Max and HBO in late 2025.