Introduction
If you love fantasy, powerful heroines, and epic storylines, Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass series is a must-read. But with prequels, side stories, and overlapping timelines, figuring out the perfect reading order can be confusing. Don’t worry — here’s your ultimate guide to reading the Throne of Glass books in the right order.
About the Throne of Glass Series
The Throne of Glass saga follows Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin with a mysterious past, as she fights for her freedom and destiny in a world full of magic, power, and political intrigue. Across the eight books, the series evolves from a dark fairytale to an epic high-fantasy adventure.
Sarah J. Maas: The Mind Behind the Magic
Sarah J. Maas is one of the most popular fantasy authors of the modern era. Her gripping storytelling and complex worldbuilding have made her a household name, also known for A Court of Thorns and Roses and Crescent City.
Why Reading Order Matters
The series has multiple timelines and perspectives. Reading it in the right order helps you follow Celaena’s growth and fully understand the interconnected stories and relationships.
Publication Order of the Throne of Glass Books
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Throne of Glass (2012)
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Crown of Midnight (2013)
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Heir of Fire (2014)
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Queen of Shadows (2015)
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Empire of Storms (2016)
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Tower of Dawn (2017)
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Kingdom of Ash (2018)
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The Assassin’s Blade (Prequel novellas collection)
Chronological Order of the Series
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The Assassin’s Blade
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Throne of Glass
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Crown of Midnight
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Heir of Fire
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Queen of Shadows
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Empire of Storms
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Tower of Dawn
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Kingdom of Ash
Best Order to Read for New Readers
Most fans recommend starting with Throne of Glass and reading The Assassin’s Blade after Queen of Shadows. This preserves the mystery of Celaena’s past while deepening the emotional payoff later.
About The Assassin’s Blade and Its Importance
The Assassin’s Blade is a collection of five prequel novellas that reveal Celaena’s origins. It adds depth to her motivations and relationships, making later events even more powerful.
Understanding the Parallel Stories: Empire of Storms & Tower of Dawn
These two novels happen at the same time but focus on different characters. Reading Empire of Storms first, followed by Tower of Dawn, then Kingdom of Ash gives you the smoothest story flow.
The Main Characters Across the Series
From Celaena/Aelin to Chaol, Dorian, and Rowan, every book expands the cast with unforgettable heroes and villains. Their relationships drive the emotional heart of the saga.
Themes and Worldbuilding
Magic, identity, love, freedom, and sacrifice — these are the series’ core themes. Maas’s world is filled with fae kingdoms, ancient powers, and intricate politics that keep readers hooked.
How the Series Evolves Over Time
The tone shifts from an assassin’s survival story to a full-blown fantasy war epic. As Celaena matures, so does the series — growing darker, richer, and more emotionally intense.
Similar Book Series to Throne of Glass
If you enjoyed Throne of Glass, you’ll likely love A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo, and Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard.
Why Readers Love This Fantasy Epic
It’s not just the battles or the romance — it’s the journey of transformation. Readers connect deeply with Aelin’s resilience, courage, and the friendships that define her.
Conclusion
The Throne of Glass series is an unforgettable journey of strength, destiny, and magic. Whether you’re reading it for the first time or returning for a reread, following the right order will make the story even more captivating.
