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. Its 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 the eyes of its creator. This guide will help you navigate the sprawling world of *Game of Thrones* books, presenting them in chronological order.

**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* series, with two more – *The Winds of Winter* and *A Dream of Spring* – still in progress. While fans eagerly await Martin's conclusion, a creative individual even utilized ChatGPT to complete the series, offering a glimpse into a possible ending. The uncertainty surrounding Martin's completion of the series fuels ongoing fan discussion.

Beyond the main novels, Martin has enriched the *ASoIaF* universe with companion works, including three *Dunk & Egg* novellas (collected in *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms*), three Targaryen-focused novellas (expanded upon in *Fire & Blood*), and a comprehensive world guide, *The World of Ice & Fire*. More details on these are provided below.

Game of Thrones Book Sets

For fans who prefer physical copies, collecting the *Game of Thrones* books as a set offers a rewarding experience. Various sets are available, but the leather-bound edition currently featured in an Amazon sale stands out for its elegant presentation.

A Song of Ice and Fire Box Set

Contains the set of 5 books. $85.00 (46% off) - $46.00 at Amazon

How to Read the Game of Thrones Books in Chronological Order

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

1. Fire & Blood

See it at Amazon

*Fire & Blood*, the basis for HBO's *House of the Dragon*, chronicles the 300-year reign of House Targaryen. Unlike the *A Song of Ice and Fire* novels, it's presented as a historical account by Archmaester Gyldayn, offering a unique perspective on events spanning roughly 150 years (the second half is anticipated in *Fire & Blood* Volume 2). Although Gyldayn writes around the start of *A Song of Ice and Fire*, the events themselves precede *A Game of Thrones* by 300 years.

The book incorporates and expands on 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

See it at Amazon

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, it offers engaging adventures and alternative perspectives within the Seven Kingdoms. The novellas included are: *The Hedge Knight*, *The Sworn Sword*, and *The Mystery Knight*.

3. A Game of Thrones

See it at Amazon

The inaugural novel (1996), introducing Westeros, its prominent houses, and a diverse cast of characters. It sets the stage for the War of the Five Kings, introducing themes of political intrigue, betrayal, and conflict that define the series. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, including Eddard Stark, Catelyn Stark, Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Bran Stark, Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen.

4. A Clash of Kings

See it at Amazon

Continues the War of the Five Kings, showcasing the struggles of various claimants, the Lannisters' consolidation of power, Jon Snow's journey with the Night's Watch, and Daenerys's adventures in Essos.

5. A Storm of Swords

See it at Amazon

Brings the War of the Five Kings to a close (mostly), while further developing the Stark children's storylines, Jon Snow's encounters beyond the Wall, and Daenerys's rise to power.

6. A Feast for Crows

See it at Amazon

Runs concurrently with *A Dance with Dragons*, focusing on characters in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne as winter approaches. Key characters from previous books are absent, allowing for the introduction of new perspectives and storylines.

7. A Dance with Dragons

See it at Amazon

Reintroduces characters absent from *A Feast for Crows*, moving beyond the events of the previous novel. The narrative expands upon existing storylines and introduces new conflicts and characters.

Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire

See it at Amazon

A comprehensive companion book, rich with illustrations and historical details about Westeros and its surrounding regions, offering a deeper understanding of the world's history and lore.

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

See it at Amazon
See it at Barnes & Noble
See it at Target

The Winds of Winter

The next installment in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* saga, picking up after *A Dance with Dragons*. Martin has shared details and preview chapters, promising a departure from the television series' storyline.

A Dream of Spring

The planned final book in the *ASoIaF* series.

Fire & Blood Volume 2

The second volume of *Fire & Blood*, continuing the Targaryen history.

Future Dunk & Egg Novellas

Martin plans to write additional *Dunk & Egg* novellas, but their release is contingent on the completion of *The Winds of Winter*. He's shared potential titles and storylines for these future installments.

An HBO series adapting the *Dunk & Egg* stories is also in development.

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