For over two decades, George R.R. Martin's *A Song of Ice and Fire* has captivated readers and cemented its place as a cornerstone of modern fantasy. The saga's popularity soared with the phenomenal success of HBO's *Game of Thrones* and continues to thrive thanks to the equally compelling prequel series, *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: Minor plot points and character introductions are mentioned below, but major spoilers are avoided.)

**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 planned: *The Winds of Winter* and *A Dream of Spring*. While fans eagerly await Martin's completion of the series, a ChatGPT-generated ending has sparked much discussion about the series' potential conclusion. The uncertainty surrounding Martin's completion of the series remains a significant talking point amongst 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 the comprehensive *The World of Ice & Fire*. More details on these are provided below.

Game of Thrones Book Sets

For those who prefer physical copies, collecting the *Game of Thrones* books as a set is a rewarding experience. Several sets are available, but the leather-bound edition currently featured in an Amazon book sale stands out for its impressive presentation.

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

This reading order considers the chronological flow of events, rather than publication date:

1. Fire & Blood

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*Fire & Blood*, the basis for *House of the Dragon*, chronicles the Targaryen dynasty's 300-year reign. Unlike the main novels, it's presented as a historical account by Archmaester Gyldayn, offering a unique perspective on the events that predate *A Game of Thrones* by roughly 300 years. The book covers approximately the first 150 years of the Targaryen reign; a second volume is expected to cover the remaining years. It incorporates and expands upon three previously published novellas.

The recently published *The Rise of the Dragon* is a condensed, illustrated version of *Fire & Blood*.

2. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

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This collection of three novellas features Ser Duncan the Tall and Aegon V Targaryen, set approximately 90 years before *A Game of Thrones*. While not directly connected to the main storyline, it offers enriching background and new perspectives. An upcoming TV adaptation is also planned.

3. A Game of Thrones

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The inaugural novel introduces Westeros, its major houses, and key characters, setting the stage for the War of the Five Kings. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, offering a broad view of the unfolding conflict.

4. A Clash of Kings

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The War of the Five Kings intensifies, with various factions vying for power. The narrative continues to follow key characters across different regions of Westeros and Essos.

5. A Storm of Swords

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This novel largely concludes the War of the Five Kings, though its ramifications continue to shape the events that follow. The storylines of several key characters intertwine, leading to significant plot developments.

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, while others are absent. The story was divided into two volumes due to its length.

7. A Dance with Dragons

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This novel reunites readers with characters absent from *A Feast for Crows* and moves beyond the events of the previous book. New conflicts emerge, and existing storylines reach critical junctures.

Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire

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This companion book provides a rich history of Westeros and its surrounding regions, serving as a valuable resource for understanding the world's complexities.

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, *The Winds of Winter*, is eagerly anticipated by fans. Martin has provided updates and previews, indicating significant plot developments.

A Dream of Spring

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

Fire & Blood Volume 2

A continuation of the Targaryen history.

Future Dunk & Egg Novellas

Martin has plans for additional *Dunk & Egg* novellas, with potential titles and storylines revealed. An HBO series based on the novellas is also in development.

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