The throne of glass series order by Sarah J. Maas is a thrilling journey into a world of magic, adventure, and complex characters. This beloved fantasy series has captivated readers all over the world with its gripping storyline and strong characters. However, since the series includes both main books and a prequel collection, many fans wonder what the correct reading order is. Whether you’re new to the series or looking to re-read it in the best order, this guide will help you understand the Throne of Glass series order.

The series follows the journey of Celaena Sardothien, an assassin with a mysterious past, as she faces dangerous quests, magical forces, and personal battles. Each book adds more depth to the story, creating a rich and immersive experience for readers. Let’s explore the order to read this series for the best experience.

Starting with “The Assassin’s Blade”

The Throne of Glass series technically begins with The Assassin’s Blade, a collection of novellas that offer a glimpse into Celaena’s life before the main series starts. Reading this book first gives readers background on Celaena’s past and provides valuable context for her character.

• What It Covers: The Assassin’s Blade includes five short stories that show Celaena’s life as an assassin before she is introduced in Throne of Glass.
• Importance: These novellas help readers understand Celaena’s motivations, strengths, and relationships, making it easier to connect with her character in the main series.
• Optional for New Readers: Some people skip The Assassin’s Blade on their first read-through, but it can add extra depth to the series.

Starting with The Assassin’s Blade is ideal for those who want to fully understand Celaena’s story from the beginning. It sets the stage for the main series by explaining her background.

Book 1: Throne of Glass

After reading The Assassin’s Blade, the next book in the Throne of Glass series order is Throne of Glass. This book introduces readers to Celaena’s journey in the main storyline and establishes the setting and conflicts of the series.

• Plot: Celaena is brought to the kingdom of Adarlan to compete in a deadly tournament to become the king’s assassin.
• Key Characters: Here, Celaena meets important characters like Dorian, the crown prince, and Chaol, the captain of the guard.
• Themes Introduced: The themes of power, loyalty, and personal growth start to unfold, adding depth to the series.

Throne of Glass is a thrilling start to Celaena’s main journey and sets up the stakes for the rest of the series. It combines action, fantasy, and emotional moments, making it a must-read.

Book 2: Crown of Midnight

Following Throne of Glass, the second main book in the series is Crown of Midnight. This book dives deeper into Celaena’s role as the king’s assassin and reveals more about the kingdom’s dark secrets.

• New Challenges: Celaena faces difficult choices as she navigates loyalty and betrayal.
• Character Development: In this book, Celaena’s character is tested, and readers see her grow stronger and more determined.
• Romantic Tensions: The book also explores the romantic dynamics between Celaena, Dorian, and Chaol.

Crown of Midnight adds complexity to the story by uncovering hidden motives and testing Celaena’s loyalty, making it an exciting continuation of the series.

Book 3: Heir of Fire

The third book, Heir of Fire, takes Celaena’s journey to new lands and introduces new characters and magical elements. It expands the world of the series and opens up new plotlines.

• World Expansion: Celaena travels to new territories, learning more about her own magical abilities.
• New Allies and Enemies: Important new characters, like Rowan and Maeve, play significant roles in shaping Celaena’s future.
• Character Growth: Celaena confronts her past and embraces her destiny, making her stronger than ever.

Heir of Fire is essential for understanding Celaena’s transformation from an assassin to someone with a larger role in her world. It is a powerful and emotional part of the series.

Book 4: Queen of Shadows

Queen of Shadows is the fourth main book in the Throne of Glass series order and brings Celaena back to Adarlan. In this book, Celaena faces her enemies and prepares for the battles ahead.

• Return to Adarlan: Celaena comes back to confront those who have wronged her and her friends.
• Confronting Villains: She faces dangerous enemies, including old foes, and seeks justice for past wrongs.
• Friendships and Alliances: Celaena’s connections with her allies deepen, and the stakes rise as they prepare for war.

This book is packed with action and emotional moments, showing Celaena’s growth and determination to make things right. It’s a turning point in the series.

Book 5: Empire of Storms

In Empire of Storms, the fifth book, the stakes are higher than ever as Celaena and her allies face powerful forces. This book is intense and full of action as they prepare for the final battles.

• Epic Battles: The series moves towards its climax with battles and dramatic confrontations.
• Alliances and Betrayals: The characters form alliances, but there are also betrayals that test their resolve.
• Magic and Mystery: Magic plays a bigger role, and mysteries are uncovered that impact Celaena’s future.

Empire of Storms is a thrilling read that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, building excitement for the series finale.

Book 6: Tower of Dawn

Tower of Dawn is a unique part of the Throne of Glass series order because it focuses on Chaol, a main character from the earlier books. It offers a different perspective on the story.

• Chaol’s Journey: The book follows Chaol’s personal healing journey and his mission in the southern continent.
• New Characters: New allies and characters join the story, expanding the world further.
• Parallel Storyline: The events in Tower of Dawn happen alongside Empire of Storms, adding depth to the overall plot.

This book adds valuable insight into Chaol’s character and introduces new elements that are important for the series conclusion.

Book 7: Kingdom of Ash

Kingdom of Ash is the grand finale of the Throne of Glass series, bringing together all the characters and plotlines for an epic conclusion. This book ties up loose ends and provides closure to the story.

• Final Battles: All the characters come together for the final battle against dark forces.
• Ultimate Sacrifice: There are moments of sacrifice and courage as they fight for their world’s future.
• Emotional Endings: The story concludes with emotional farewells and resolutions for the characters.

Kingdom of Ash is a powerful end to the series, leaving readers satisfied with the journey and growth of the characters.

Conclusion:

The Throne of Glass series order is straightforward if you follow the main books with The Assassin’s Blade at the start or in between. By reading in this order, readers get the full experience of Celaena’s journey, from her early days as an assassin to her role as a leader in a magical world. Each book builds on the previous one, making it a rich and rewarding series to read.

Following the right order helps readers appreciate the character growth, plot twists, and deeper themes that Sarah J. Maas carefully weaves into her books. Whether you’re new to the series or revisiting it, this guide can help you enjoy the Throne of Glass books to the fullest.

FAQs

Q: What is the best reading order for the Throne of Glass series?
A: Start with The Assassin’s Blade, then follow with Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, Heir of Fire, Queen of Shadows, Empire of Storms, Tower of Dawn, and finally Kingdom of Ash.

Q: Is The Assassin’s Blade necessary to read?
A: It’s optional but recommended, as it provides valuable background on Celaena’s past.

Q: Can I read Tower of Dawn separately?
A: Tower of Dawn is essential to the series, as it offers important events and character development for Chaol.

Q: How long is the Throne of Glass series?
A: The series has eight books, including one prequel collection, making it a lengthy but rewarding read.

Q: Is the Throne of Glass series suitable for young readers?
A: The series contains some mature themes, so it may be best suited for older teens and young adults.