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 impressive *House of the Dragon*. 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.

This guide provides a chronological reading order for all the *Game of Thrones* books, perfect for newcomers and seasoned fans alike. (Note: Mild spoilers regarding broad plot points and character introductions are included.)

**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* saga, with two more—*The Winds of Winter* and *A Dream of Spring*—still in progress. While fans eagerly await Martin's completion of the series, a ChatGPT-generated ending has sparked discussion about potential conclusions. The uncertainty surrounding Martin's completion of the series remains a topic of much debate 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 upon in *Fire & Blood*), and a comprehensive world guide, *The World of Ice & Fire*. More details on each are below.

Game of Thrones Book Sets

For those who prefer 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 a particularly striking option.

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

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, whose perspective is situated near the start of *A Song of Ice and Fire*. The history itself begins 300 years prior to *A Game of Thrones* and covers approximately 150 years; a second volume is expected to cover the remaining years of the Targaryen reign.

The book encompasses and expands on 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**

See it at Amazon

This collection features three novellas centered around 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. The novellas included are *The Hedge Knight*, *The Sworn Sword*, and *The Mystery Knight*. An HBO series adaptation is in development.

3. **A Game of Thrones**

See it at Amazon

The inaugural novel introduces Westeros, its prominent families, and a diverse cast of characters. Set during Robert Baratheon's reign, it initiates the War of the Five Kings, a conflict filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and bloodshed.

4. **A Clash of Kings**

See it at Amazon

This installment continues the War of the Five Kings, following the various claimants and their struggles for power. The story unfolds across multiple locations, showcasing the conflicts and ambitions of various characters.

5. **A Storm of Swords**

See it at Amazon

The third novel largely concludes the War of the Five Kings, though lingering conflicts and challenges remain. The Stark children face new trials, Jon Snow ventures beyond the Wall, and Daenerys continues her journey in Essos.

6. **A Feast for Crows**

See it at Amazon

This novel 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 development of new and existing characters.

7. **A Dance with Dragons**

See it at Amazon

This installment reunites readers with characters absent from *A Feast for Crows*, continuing their respective storylines. The novel explores various plots and conflicts across Westeros and Essos.

**Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire**

See it at Amazon

This companion book provides a comprehensive history of Westeros, detailing its past and the events leading up to *A Game of Thrones*. It's a rich resource for fans seeking 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, *The Winds of Winter*, will continue the story after *A Dance with Dragons*. Martin has shared preview chapters and updates on the book's progress.

**A Dream of Spring**

This will be the final book in the planned seven-book series, if completed.

**Fire & Blood Volume 2**

Martin plans a second volume to expand on the Targaryen history.

**Future Dunk & Egg Novellas**

Martin intends to write more *Dunk & Egg* novellas, but their publication depends on the completion of *The Winds of Winter*. He has outlined potential storylines and titles for future novellas.

For more reading suggestions, explore our list of the best fantasy books or browse our selection of reading lights.