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 bestselling novels and HBO's hugely successful adaptation propelled the series into the global spotlight, a popularity further fueled by the acclaimed prequel series, *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 helps you navigate the *Game of Thrones* books in chronological order, perfect for newcomers and seasoned fans alike.

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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?

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, the enduring popularity of the world he created has led to creative explorations, such as a ChatGPT-generated completion of the series. However, the question of whether Martin will finish the series himself remains unanswered.

Beyond the main novels, Martin has enriched the *ASoIaF* universe with companion works: three *Dunk & Egg* novellas (collected in 2015's *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms*), three Targaryen-focused novellas (expanded upon in 2018's *Fire & Blood*), and the comprehensive *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 the Amazon book 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

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

1. Fire & Blood

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*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 places the narrative approximately 300 years before *A Game of Thrones*. The book covers the first 150 years of the Targaryen dynasty, with a second volume anticipated to cover the remainder.

The book encompasses the reigns of six Targaryen rulers, beginning with Aegon I and his conquest of Westeros. A key event within this period is the Dance of the Dragons, depicted in *House of the Dragon*. *Fire & Blood* also incorporates and expands upon 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

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This collection features three novellas centered on 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 and will form the basis of a future TV adaptation.

3. A Game of Thrones

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The inaugural novel, published in 1996, introduces Westeros, its prominent families, and the diverse cast of characters. Set during Robert Baratheon's reign, it ignites the War of the Five Kings, setting the stage for political intrigue, betrayal, and conflict.

The narrative unfolds through multiple points of view, including Eddard Stark, Catelyn Stark, Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Bran Stark, Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen.

4. A Clash of Kings

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The War of the Five Kings continues, with competing claimants vying for power. The Lannisters consolidate their hold on King's Landing, Jon Snow journeys north of the Wall, and Daenerys navigates her path in Essos.

5. 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 various challenges, Jon Snow interacts with wildlings, and Daenerys’s leadership is tested.

6. 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. Key characters from previous books are absent, allowing for the exploration of new and existing characters.

7. A Dance with Dragons

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This novel reunites with characters absent from *A Feast for Crows*, continuing their storylines. The narrative expands upon events from *A Storm of Swords*, moving beyond the timeline of *A Feast for Crows* to become the chronologically furthest point in the series thus far.

Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire

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This companion book provides a rich history of Westeros, from the Dawn Age to Robert's Rebellion, offering detailed family trees and information on various locations and cultures.

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

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The Winds of Winter

The next installment in the main saga, picking up after *A Dance with Dragons*. Martin has shared updates and preview chapters, indicating a significant divergence from the television series.

A Dream of Spring

The planned final book in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* saga.

Fire & Blood Volume 2

The anticipated sequel to *Fire & Blood*, covering the latter half of the Targaryen dynasty.

Future Dunk & Egg Novellas

Martin plans to continue the *Dunk & Egg* series, with several novellas in development. An HBO series adaptation is also in the works.

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