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 series' popularity soared with the phenomenal success of HBO's *Game of Thrones*, and continues to thrive thanks to the equally compelling *House of the Dragon*. With *House of the Dragon* Season 2 now streaming, there's no better time to explore the rich tapestry of Westeros through Martin's original novels.

This guide provides a chronological reading order for all the *Game of Thrones* books, perfect for newcomers and seasoned fans alike. Whether you prefer the thrill of the main saga or the intriguing side stories, we've got you covered.

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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 has sparked creative explorations, including AI-generated continuations. The question of whether Martin will complete the series remains a topic of much discussion among fans.

Beyond the main novels, Martin has enriched the world 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 comprehensive *The World of Ice & Fire*. More details on each below.

Game of Thrones Book Sets

For those who appreciate physical books, collecting the *Game of Thrones* novels 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 summaries contain only minor spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.

1. Fire & Blood

Fire & Blood: 300 Years Before A Game of Thrones
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*Fire & Blood*, the basis for *House of the Dragon*, chronicles the 300-year Targaryen reign in Westeros. Unlike the *A Song of Ice and Fire* novels, it's presented as a historical account by Archmaester Gyldayn, whose perspective is placed near the start of *A Song of Ice and Fire*. The book covers the first 150 years of the Targaryen dynasty; a second volume is planned to cover the remaining years.

Fire & Blood incorporates and expands upon three previously published novellas: *The Princess and the Queen*, *The Rogue Prince*, and *The Sons of the Dragon*.

2. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
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This collection features three novellas starring Ser Duncan the Tall and Aegon V Targaryen, set roughly 90 years before *A Game of Thrones*. While not essential to the main saga, it offers additional adventures and perspectives within the Seven Kingdoms. It includes *The Hedge Knight*, *The Sworn Sword*, and *The Mystery Knight*.

3. A Game of Thrones

A Game of Thrones
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The inaugural novel introduces Westeros, its houses, and its diverse cast of characters. Set during Robert Baratheon's reign, it sets the stage for the War of the Five Kings, filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and conflict.

4. A Clash of Kings

A Clash of Kings
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The War of the Five Kings intensifies, with competing claimants vying for the Iron Throne. The story unfolds across various locations, following multiple characters' journeys.

5. A Storm of Swords

A Storm of Swords
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This novel largely concludes the War of the Five Kings, though lingering conflicts remain. The Stark children face challenges, Jon Snow ventures beyond the Wall, and Daenerys continues her rise to power.

6. A Feast for Crows

A Feast for Crows
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Running concurrently with *A Dance with Dragons*, this novel focuses on characters in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne, as winter approaches Westeros. Key characters from previous books are absent, allowing for new perspectives and storylines.

7. A Dance with Dragons

A Dance with Dragons
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This novel reunites readers with characters absent from *A Feast for Crows* and expands upon events from *A Storm of Swords*. The storylines progress beyond those in *Feast*, making it the chronologically furthest point in the series thus far.

Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire

The World of Ice & Fire
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A companion book offering a detailed history of Westeros, from the Age of Dawn to Robert's Rebellion. It's richly illustrated and provides extensive background information on the world's history, houses, and geography.

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

A Feast for Crows: The Illustrated Edition
Out November 4, 2025
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The Winds of Winter

The highly anticipated sixth novel in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* series, *The Winds of Winter*, will continue the story after *A Dance with Dragons*. Martin has shared updates and preview chapters, hinting at the storylines to come.

A Dream of Spring

The planned seventh and final novel in the series.

Fire & Blood Volume 2

A continuation of the Targaryen history, covering the remaining years of their 300-year reign.

Future Dunk & Egg Novellas

Martin plans to write more *Dunk & Egg* novellas, focusing on the duo's adventures. He has mentioned potential storylines and titles.

An HBO series based on the *Dunk & Egg* novellas, beginning with *The Hedge Knight*, is also in development.

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