Throne of Glass Reading Order: A Complete Guide

intricate world-building, complex characters, and epic plot twists, it has become one of the most beloved series in the fantasy genre. However, with several novellas and companion books surrounding the main series, it can be a little confusing for newcomers to know where to start and in what order to read the books.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the Throne of Glass reading order, ensuring you get the full experience of this incredible series. Whether you’re a new reader looking to dive into the world of assassins, magic, and royalty, or an existing fan revisiting the series, this guide will walk you through the books and novellas in the best order to enjoy them.

Table of Contents

The Main Series

The Throne of Glass series is made up of seven novels. The series follows Celaena Sardothien, an 18-year-old assassin in a fantasy world filled with magic, political intrigue, and a complex web of relationships. The main plot focuses on Celaena’s journey to freedom, redemption, and ultimately the discovery of her true destiny.

1. Throne of Glass (2012)

The first book in the series introduces readers to Celaena Sardothien, an infamous assassin who has been imprisoned in the salt mines of Endovier. She is offered a chance at freedom by the Crown Prince, Dorian Havilliard, if she agrees to participate in a deadly competition to become the King’s Champion. As Celaena navigates the treacherous politics of the royal court, she uncovers dark secrets about the kingdom and its rulers.

The first book is a fast-paced, action-packed introduction to the world of Adarlan and the characters that will become central to the series. It sets the stage for the overarching conflict and sets up the complex relationships between Celaena, Prince Dorian, and the Captain of the Guard, Chaol Westfall.

2. Crown of Midnight (2013)

In the second book of the series, Celaena Sardothien has become the King’s Champion. However, her task isn’t just to kill on command; she soon discovers the depths of the King’s cruelty and the darkness of his regime. Celaena begins to grapple with her own identity, torn between loyalty to the kingdom and the desire to see it free from tyranny.

As Celaena becomes embroiled in dangerous plots, her relationships with Dorian and Chaol grow increasingly complicated. Meanwhile, the story delves deeper into the mysteries of magic, ancient artifacts, and dark forces that threaten the world.

3. Heir of Fire (2014)

The third book in the Throne of Glass series takes Celaena to a distant land, where she begins training with the Fey warrior Rowan Whitethorn. She must come to terms with her past and her true heritage, all while seeking revenge on those who have wronged her. This book expands the world-building and introduces new characters, adding depth to the series.

In Heir of Fire, the stakes are raised as Celaena uncovers powerful magic and faces new challenges, all while dealing with the growing tensions between the various factions. Readers get a glimpse of the larger forces at play in the world and the pivotal role Celaena will have to play in the upcoming battles.

4. Queen of Shadows (2015)

In the fourth installment of the series, Celaena has embraced her true identity as Aelin Galathynius, the lost Queen of Terrasen. With a burning desire to reclaim her throne, Aelin sets out to rally allies and defeat the forces that have taken everything from her. This book is a turning point in the series as Celaena fully embraces her destiny and prepares to face the enemies who stand in her way.

Queen of Shadows is packed with thrilling action, emotional moments, and character development. Aelin’s journey is filled with difficult choices as she navigates her role as queen and the leader of a growing rebellion.

5. Empire of Storms (2016)

As the fifth book in the series, Empire of Storms takes the rebellion to new heights. Aelin and her allies confront the darkness that looms over the world, facing armies, betrayals, and dangerous magical forces. The stakes are higher than ever, and Aelin must come to terms with the consequences of her choices.

The novel also focuses on the personal relationships that have developed throughout the series. Aelin’s connection with Rowan, Dorian, Chaol, and other key characters is tested, and new alliances are formed as the battle for the throne intensifies.

6. Tower of Dawn (2017)

Although Tower of Dawn is technically a companion novel and not a direct sequel, it is a crucial book in the Throne of Glass series. This novel takes place during the events of Empire of Storms and follows Chaol Westfall as he journeys to the southern continent in search of healing after sustaining severe injuries. Along the way, Chaol forms an unlikely alliance with Yrene Towers, a healer with a mysterious past.

While Tower of Dawn primarily focuses on Chaol’s personal growth and the development of his relationship with Yrene, it also provides key insights into the larger events of the series. Many important revelations are made in this book, making it essential reading for anyone following the Throne of Glass series.

7. Kingdom of Ash (2018)

The final book in the Throne of Glass series, Kingdom of Ash, concludes the epic story of Aelin Galathynius and her fight for her throne. As the battle for Terrasen reaches its climax, Aelin and her allies face off against dark forces that threaten to destroy everything they hold dear. With high-stakes action, emotional reunions, and shocking twists, Kingdom of Ash is a thrilling and satisfying conclusion to the series.

The book is an emotional rollercoaster, as characters face the consequences of their actions and work together to defeat the ultimate evil. The series culminates in a powerful, satisfying conclusion that ties up all the loose ends.

The Novellas

In addition to the main books, Sarah J. Maas has also written a series of novellas that provide important background information, fill in gaps in the story, and offer deeper insights into some of the characters. These novellas are often recommended for readers who want to fully understand the world of Throne of Glass.

1. The Assassin’s Blade (2014)

The Assassin’s Blade is a collection of five novellas that follow Celaena Sardothien before the events of the first book. These novellas explore Celaena’s life as an assassin and provide essential context for her character. They also introduce key characters, including Sam Cortland, a love interest from Celaena’s past.

The novellas in this collection are:

The Assassin and the Pirate Lord
The Assassin and the Healer
The Assassin and the Desert
The Assassin and the Underworld
The Assassin and the Empire

Reading The Assassin’s Blade provides a deeper understanding of Celaena’s motivations, backstory, and the world she inhabits. It is recommended to read these novellas before starting the main series, although they can also be enjoyed afterward as a prequel.

2. A Court of Thorns and Roses (2015)

While not part of the Throne of Glass series, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) is another series by Sarah J. Maas that shares some thematic elements with Throne of Glass. Set in a world of magic, fae, and danger, ACOTAR is a beloved series in its own right and contains connections to the Throne of Glass world. It’s not necessary to read ACOTAR in order to understand Throne of Glass, but fans of Maas’s writing may enjoy exploring both series.

Conclusion

The Throne of Glass series is an epic tale of adventure, magic, and a young woman’s journey to claim her destiny. With a mix of main books and novellas, readers have a wealth of material to explore, each adding new layers to the world that Sarah J. Maas has created. Whether you choose to read the novellas first or dive straight into the main series, you’re in for an unforgettable ride through the world of assassins, kings, queens, and powerful magic.

throne of glass reading order