What Order to Read Throne of Glass In: A Journey Through Sarah J. Maas's Epic Fantasy Series
The Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas is a sprawling, intricate fantasy saga that has captivated readers worldwide. With its rich world-building, complex characters, and intertwining storylines, it’s no wonder fans often ask, “What order to read Throne of Glass in?” While the answer might seem straightforward, the series offers multiple reading orders, each providing a unique perspective on the narrative. Let’s dive into the details and explore the best ways to experience this epic tale.
The Publication Order: The Classic Approach
The most common and recommended way to read the Throne of Glass series is in the order the books were published. This approach allows readers to follow the story as it was originally intended, with each book building upon the events of the previous one. Here’s the publication order:
- Throne of Glass (2012)
- Crown of Midnight (2013)
- Heir of Fire (2014)
- Queen of Shadows (2015)
- Empire of Storms (2016)
- Tower of Dawn (2017)
- Kingdom of Ash (2018)
This order ensures that you experience the series as it unfolded for readers over the years, with each book revealing new layers of the story and deepening your connection to the characters.
The Chronological Order: A Deeper Dive
For those who enjoy a more immersive experience, reading the series in chronological order can provide a fresh perspective. This approach includes the prequel novellas and short stories, which offer valuable backstory and context. Here’s the chronological order:
- The Assassin’s Blade (2014) – A collection of prequel novellas that delve into Celaena Sardothien’s past.
- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- Heir of Fire
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms
- Tower of Dawn – This book runs parallel to Empire of Storms, focusing on Chaol Westfall’s journey.
- Kingdom of Ash
Reading The Assassin’s Blade first provides insight into Celaena’s character and motivations, making her journey in the main series even more impactful. However, some readers prefer to read the prequel after Heir of Fire or Queen of Shadows to maintain an element of mystery.
The Hybrid Order: Balancing Mystery and Context
If you’re torn between the publication and chronological orders, a hybrid approach might be the perfect compromise. This method balances the suspense of the original release with the added depth of the prequel stories. Here’s how it works:
- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- Heir of Fire
- The Assassin’s Blade – Reading the prequel at this point enhances your understanding of Celaena’s past without spoiling key plot points.
- Queen of Shadows
- Empire of Storms
- Tower of Dawn
- Kingdom of Ash
This order allows you to experience the series with a mix of curiosity and context, making it an excellent choice for first-time readers who want the best of both worlds.
The Parallel Reading Order: For the Adventurous
For those who enjoy a more unconventional approach, reading Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn in parallel can be an exciting experiment. These two books take place simultaneously but follow different characters and storylines. Here’s how you can tackle them:
- Throne of Glass
- Crown of Midnight
- Heir of Fire
- Queen of Shadows
- Alternate chapters between Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn – This method allows you to experience the events of both books in real-time, creating a more dynamic reading experience.
- Kingdom of Ash
While this approach requires more effort, it can be incredibly rewarding for readers who enjoy piecing together a complex narrative.
Why the Reading Order Matters
The Throne of Glass series is more than just a collection of books; it’s a journey through a meticulously crafted world filled with magic, intrigue, and unforgettable characters. The order in which you read the series can significantly influence your understanding of the story and your emotional connection to the characters. Whether you choose the publication order, chronological order, hybrid order, or parallel reading order, each approach offers a unique way to experience Sarah J. Maas’s masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I skip The Assassin’s Blade?
A: While it’s not strictly necessary, The Assassin’s Blade provides valuable context and backstory that enriches the main series. Skipping it might leave you missing out on key details about Celaena’s past.
Q: Is Tower of Dawn essential to the story?
A: Yes, Tower of Dawn is crucial to the overall narrative. It introduces important characters and plotlines that play a significant role in Kingdom of Ash.
Q: Should I read Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn together?
A: This is a matter of personal preference. Reading them in parallel can enhance the experience, but it’s not required. Many readers choose to read them sequentially.
Q: How long does it take to read the entire series?
A: The series is quite lengthy, with each book ranging from 400 to nearly 1,000 pages. Depending on your reading speed, it could take several weeks to a few months to complete the entire series.
Q: Are there any spin-offs or related books?
A: While there are no direct spin-offs, Sarah J. Maas’s Crescent City series shares thematic and world-building elements with Throne of Glass, making it a great follow-up for fans.