If you’re diving into the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas, you’re in for an unforgettable journey filled with fierce heroines, intricate world-building, and heart-pounding action. But with multiple books, prequels, and novellas, figuring out the reading order can be tricky. This SEO-optimized guide will walk you through the Throne of Glass books in order, ensuring you experience Celaena Sardothien’s epic saga the best way possible. Whether you’re a new reader or revisiting the series, we’ve got you covered!
Why Read the Throne of Glass Series?
The Throne of Glass series is a cornerstone of modern young adult fantasy, blending high-stakes adventure, romance, and political intrigue. Following Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin with a hidden past, the series spans seven main novels and a prequel novella collection. With over 4 million copies sold and a passionate fanbase, it’s no wonder readers can’t get enough of Sarah J. Maas’ richly crafted world of Erilea.
But where should you start? Below, we outline the Throne of Glass books in both publication order and a recommended reading order for maximum enjoyment, along with tips for new readers.
Throne of Glass Books in Order of Release Date
Below is the complete list of Throne of Glass books by Sarah J. Maas, arranged by their publication order, presented in a table format for easy reference.
| Book Title | Release Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Throne of Glass | August 7, 2012 | First book in the main series |
| Crown of Midnight | August 27, 2013 | Second book in the main series |
| The Assassin’s Blade | March 4, 2014 | Prequel novella collection |
| Heir of Fire | September 2, 2014 | Third book in the main series |
| Queen of Shadows | September 1, 2015 | Fourth book in the main series |
| Empire of Storms | September 6, 2016 | Fifth book in the main series |
| Tower of Dawn | September 5, 2017 | Companion novel |
| Kingdom of Ash | October 23, 2018 | Final book in the main series |
This table lists all eight Throne of Glass books, including the prequel novellas and the companion novel, in the order they were published.
Throne of Glass Books in Publication Order
The Throne of Glass series was published between 2012 and 2018. Here’s the complete list of books in the order they were released:
- The Assassin’s Blade (Prequel Novellas) (2014)
- A collection of five novellas set before the main series, exploring Celaena’s life as an assassin.
- Perfect for: Understanding Celaena’s backstory and motivations.
- Throne of Glass (2012)
- The first book introduces Celaena Sardothien, an 18-year-old assassin competing for her freedom in a deadly contest to become the King’s Champion.
- Perfect for: Meeting Celaena and the core cast in the kingdom of Adarlan.
- Crown of Midnight (2013)
- Celaena’s journey continues as she navigates her role as the King’s Champion, uncovering dark secrets and forging new alliances.
- Perfect for: Deeper character development and shocking plot twists.
- Heir of Fire (2014)
- Celaena’s world expands as she trains with a mysterious figure and confronts her past.
- Perfect for: Exploring new lands and magical elements.
- Queen of Shadows (2015)
- A pivotal book where Celaena embraces her true identity and takes on greater challenges.
- Perfect for: Fans of epic battles and emotional growth.
- Empire of Storms (2016)
- The stakes soar as war looms and alliances are tested.
- Perfect for: Intense action and romantic tension.
- Tower of Dawn (2017)
- A companion novel focusing on Chaol Westfall’s journey in the southern continent.
- Perfect for: Fans of Chaol and those craving more world-building.
- Kingdom of Ash (2018)
- The explosive finale where all threads converge for an epic conclusion.
- Perfect for: Wrapping up the series with heart-wrenching and triumphant moments.
Recommended Reading Order for New Readers
While publication order works well, many fans recommend reading The Assassin’s Blade after Crown of Midnight or Heir of Fire to avoid spoilers and maintain suspense. Here’s the suggested reading order for the best experience:
- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- The Assassin’s Blade (Prequel Novellas)
- Heir of Fire
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms
- Tower of Dawn
- Kingdom of Ash
Why this order? Reading The Assassin’s Blade after Crown of Midnight provides context for Celaena’s past without revealing major plot points too early. Tower of Dawn is best read before Kingdom of Ash to understand key events in the finale.
Tips for Enjoying the Throne of Glass Series
- Take your time with the world-building: The series introduces a vast world with complex magic systems and political intrigue. Don’t rush—savor the details!
- Keep a character guide handy: With a large cast, it helps to note key characters and their roles.
- Join the fandom: Engage with fans on platforms like X or Goodreads for theories, fan art, and discussions.
- Prepare for emotional rollercoasters: Maas is known for her gut-wrenching twists, so keep tissues nearby!
Frequently Asked Questions About Throne of Glass
How many books are in the Throne of Glass series in order?
The series includes seven main novels and one prequel novella collection (The Assassin’s Blade), totaling eight books.
Is The Assassin’s Blade necessary to read?
While not mandatory, The Assassin’s Blade enriches Celaena’s character and provides crucial backstory. It’s highly recommended for a complete experience.
Can I skip Tower of Dawn?
Tower of Dawn focuses on Chaol and is set parallel to Empire of Storms. Skipping it may leave gaps in the story, especially for Kingdom of Ash. Read it for the full narrative arc.
Is Throne of Glass suitable for young readers?
The series is aimed at young adults (14+), with themes of violence, romance, and political intrigue. Parents may want to review content for younger readers.
Why Throne of Glass Remains a Must-Read
Sarah J. Maas’ Throne of Glass series captivates with its fierce protagonist, intricate plots, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re drawn to epic fantasy, strong female leads, or sweeping romances, this series has it all. By following the recommended reading order, you’ll immerse yourself in Erilea’s magic and mayhem without missing a beat.
Ready to start? Grab Throne of Glass and step into Celaena’s world. Have questions or want to share your favorite moments? Join the conversation on X or leave a comment below!
Happy reading, and may you survive the terrors of the Endovier salt mines!
