In What Order Should You Read the Throne of Glass Books?

For fans of epic fantasy, few authors have captivated readers like Sarah J. Maas. Her writing is rich with intrigue, magic, and unforgettable characters. Among her most iconic series is the Throne of Glass saga—a sprawling tale of assassins, empires, and destiny. But if you're new to the world of Throne of Glass, one question likely stands out: In what order should I read the books—chronologically or by publication date?

Let’s dive into both reading orders, their pros and cons, and which one might be best for your journey through this high-stakes fantasy realm.

A Quick Overview of the Throne of Glass Series

Before discussing reading orders, it’s essential to understand what the Sarah J. Maas Throne of Glass series entails. Originally pitched as a Cinderella retelling with an assassin twist, the story follows Celaena Sardothien, a teenage assassin with a tragic past and a complicated future.

What begins as a simple competition for the king's champion soon unravels into a sweeping narrative that involves fae kingdoms, ancient magic, and world-ending threats. Across the eight books, Maas weaves intense action with heart-wrenching emotional arcs, leading to a finale that readers won’t soon forget.

The main books include:

• The Assassin’s Blade (prequel novellas)
• Throne of Glass
• Crown of Midnight
• Heir of Fire
• Queen of Shadows
• Empire of Storms
• Tower of Dawn
• Kingdom of Ash

Now, the big question: What order makes the most sense?

Publication Order vs. Chronological Order

There are two primary ways to read the series:

1. Publication Order (Recommended by Most Fans)

• Throne of Glass (2012)
• Crown of Midnight (2013)
• Heir of Fire (2014)
• Queen of Shadows (2015)
• The Assassin’s Blade (2014, but prequel)
• Empire of Storms (2016)
• Tower of Dawn (2017)
• Kingdom of Ash (2018)

2. Chronological Order

• The Assassin’s Blade
• Throne of Glass
• Crown of Midnight
• Heir of Fire
• Queen of Shadows
• Empire of Storms
• Tower of Dawn
• Kingdom of Ash

At a glance, reading in chronological order may seem logical—but it isn’t always the best way to experience the story.

Why Most Readers Recommend Publication Order

While it might be tempting to start with The Assassin’s Blade, which serves as a prequel, reading in publication order offers the most impactful narrative experience.

Here’s why:

1. Character Development Is More Organic

The prequel novellas in The Assassin’s Blade reveal key moments from Celaena's past. But starting with them can spoil the sense of mystery around her character that Throne of Glass builds so well. In publication order, you uncover her secrets gradually—mirroring how the characters around her do.

2. Narrative Pacing Is Better Managed

Sarah J. Maas wrote the books with a specific reader experience in mind. Plot twists and world-building elements are designed to unfold in a particular sequence. Reading in publication order preserves that narrative rhythm.

3. Thematic Resonance Hits Harder

Certain themes—like trust, betrayal, redemption, and destiny—are more powerful when you follow Celaena’s journey as it was written. Knowing too much too early, which can happen with chronological reading, may dilute the emotional weight of later books.

When Chronological Order Might Work

That said, there are benefits to a chronological approach, particularly on a re-read.

Chronological order might work if:

• You’ve already read the series once and want a fresh perspective.
• You enjoy prequels and want to start with background context.
• You’re the kind of reader who doesn’t mind knowing character histories upfront.

Still, for a first-time reader, publication order generally leads to the most compelling experience.

What About Tower of Dawn and Empire of Storms?

These two books present a unique case. They occur simultaneously in different locations, following different characters.

Here’s how many readers handle them:

• Read Empire of Storms.
• Then read Tower of Dawn.
• Then finish with Kingdom of Ash.

Alternatively, some readers prefer to interweave chapters from both Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn to maintain the timeline. However, this method can be disruptive and is best reserved for rereads or very dedicated fans.

Connecting the Throne of Glass to Other Sarah J. Maas Works

As the Maas universe expands, readers are noticing subtle connections between her series. The Sarah J Maas Crescent City series, for instance, has hidden Easter eggs and multiverse hints that tie back to the Throne of Glass world and her other popular saga, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR).

These connections become even more intriguing when you read all her series. Some theories suggest that characters or magical elements may transcend their respective universes—a thrilling concept for fans following Maas’s broader canon.

Conclusion: Which Order Is Best?

If you're a first-time reader, the publication order is the best way to experience the highs, lows, and twists of the Sarah J Maas Throne of Glass series. It preserves mystery, enhances character development, and respects the author’s intended flow.

If you’re coming back for a second read, the chronological order offers a new lens through which to view beloved characters and events.

Either way, you’re in for an unforgettable ride through an exquisitely built fantasy world.

Final Reading Order Recommendation (For First-Timers):

1. Throne of Glass
2. Crown of Midnight
3. Heir of Fire
4. Queen of Shadows
5. The Assassin’s Blade
6. Empire of Storms
7. Tower of Dawn
8. Kingdom of Ash

By following this order, you'll savor the journey in the most impactful way—just as Sarah J. Maas intended.

And once you’ve fallen in love with her storytelling, don’t forget to explore the Sarah J Maas Crescent City series—another gem full of layered plots, fierce heroines, and breathtaking fantasy landscapes.