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 landmark fantasy saga. The bestselling novels, propelled further into the cultural consciousness by HBO's hugely successful adaptation, continue to resonate, thanks in no small part to the ongoing *House of the Dragon* series. With *House of the Dragon* Season 2 now streaming, there's no better time to delve into the source material and experience Westeros through the eyes of its creator.

For those yet to embark on this epic journey, we've compiled a guide to reading the *Game of Thrones* books in chronological order. This guide includes both the main novels and the companion works that enrich the overall world.

**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 in the Series?

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 conclusion, the series' enduring popularity remains a testament to its captivating world and characters.

Beyond the main novels, Martin has expanded the *ASoIaF* universe with several companion works: three *Dunk & Egg* novellas (collected in *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms*), three Targaryen-focused novellas (expanded upon in *Fire & Blood*), and the comprehensive *The World of Ice & Fire*. We'll explore each of these below.

Game of Thrones Book Sets

For fans preferring 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

Note: These brief plot summaries contain only minor spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.

1. Fire & Blood

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*Fire & Blood*, the basis for HBO's *House of the Dragon*, chronicles the 300-year reign of House Targaryen. Unlike the main novels, it's presented as a historical account by Archmaester Gyldayn, offering a unique perspective on events predating *A Game of Thrones* by approximately 300 years. The book covers the first 150 years of the Targaryen dynasty; a second volume is expected to cover the remainder.

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*Fire & Blood* incorporates and expands upon three previously published 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.

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 roughly 90 years before *A Game of Thrones*. While not directly part of the main storyline, these novellas offer additional adventures and perspectives within the Seven Kingdoms. It compiles *The Hedge Knight*, *The Sworn Sword*, and *The Mystery Knight*. An HBO series adaptation is in development.

3. A Game of Thrones

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The inaugural novel introduces the world of Westeros, its major houses, and the diverse cast of characters. Set during Robert Baratheon's reign, it sets the stage for the War of the Five Kings, a conflict fueled by political intrigue, betrayal, and bloodshed.

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The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, including Eddard Stark, Catelyn Stark, their children, Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen.

4. A Clash of Kings

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This sequel continues the War of the Five Kings, showcasing the escalating conflicts and power struggles across Westeros and Essos.

5. A Storm of Swords

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The third novel largely concludes the War of the Five Kings, though lingering conflicts and new challenges arise for the surviving characters.

6. A Feast for Crows

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This novel runs concurrently with *A Dance with Dragons*, focusing on characters in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne, while others are absent from the narrative. This division was a deliberate choice by Martin to manage the scope of the story.

7. A Dance with Dragons

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This novel reunites with characters absent from *A Feast for Crows*, continuing their storylines and introducing new conflicts. It picks up after the events of *A Storm of Swords* and progresses beyond those of *A Feast for Crows*.

Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire

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A companion book providing a detailed history of Westeros and its surrounding regions, including comprehensive family trees and information on various cultures and locations. A visually rich resource for any *ASoIaF* enthusiast.

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

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The Winds of Winter

The next installment in the main saga, *The Winds of Winter*, is eagerly awaited by fans. Martin has shared updates and preview chapters, indicating its progress and scope.

A Dream of Spring

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

Fire & Blood Volume 2

A continuation of the Targaryen history, covering the latter half of their 300-year reign.

Future Dunk & Egg Novellas

Martin intends to write further *Dunk & Egg* novellas, though their release is contingent on the completion of *The Winds of Winter*. He has outlined potential storylines and titles.

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