Ranking All Throne of Glass Books From Best to Worst

Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass series is a high-fantasy masterpiece filled with magic, assassins, fae warriors, and deeply complex characters. With a fanbase spanning the globe, the series has captivated readers with its intricate world-building, gripping plot twists, and the evolution of the fierce heroine, Celaena Sardothien.

With eight books (including a collection of novellas), it can be overwhelming for new readers to decide where to begin, or for seasoned fans to determine which books shine brightest. Here's our definitive ranking of all Throne of Glass books from best to worst — a mix of fan favorites, critical acclaim, and plot significance.

But first, if you’re new to the series and wondering how to dive in, make sure to check the throne glass series order, the correct throne of glass book series in order, and the right throne of glass order of books to avoid spoilers and enjoy the full impact of the story.

1. Queen of Shadows (Book 4)

Widely considered the crown jewel of the series, Queen of Shadows is where the saga hits its peak. Celaena fully embraces her identity as Aelin Ashryver Galathynius, and the plot explodes with character reunions, vengeance, and a major power shift in the kingdom. The action is relentless, the character development is deep, and fans see a well-earned transformation in both story and tone. It perfectly blends emotional depth with fantasy action.

2. Empire of Storms (Book 5)

Aelin’s quest to unite the continent reaches new heights in Empire of Storms. This book is known for its heart-wrenching cliffhanger and rapid pacing. The stakes are incredibly high, new alliances are forged, and the world expands dramatically. Sarah J. Maas’s signature writing style shines here, with complex strategies, epic battles, and unforgettable scenes that set the stage for the series finale.

3. Heir of Fire (Book 3)

This installment marks a shift in tone and scale. Heir of Fire introduces powerful new characters like Rowan Whitethorn and reveals more about Aelin’s Fae heritage. The world expands beyond Adarlan, diving into the magical land of Wendlyn. The emotional growth Aelin undergoes in this book is transformative and heartbreaking, making it a fan-favorite for its raw, introspective moments and major plot developments.

4. Kingdom of Ash (Book 7)

The final book in the series, Kingdom of Ash, is an 900+ page epic conclusion that delivers an emotional rollercoaster of triumphs and losses. While some feel the pacing slows in parts, it’s undeniable that the payoff is immense. Every storyline converges, characters meet their fates, and Aelin’s arc comes full circle. A satisfying end to a beloved series, filled with sacrifice, loyalty, and hope.

5. Crown of Midnight (Book 2)

This is where the Throne of Glass series truly finds its footing. The stakes rise, the plot thickens, and Celaena's character is explored in deeper shades of grey. The shocking death in this book changes everything and propels the story into darker territory. A perfect blend of romance, danger, and mystery, Crown of Midnight solidifies the series' potential early on.

6. The Assassin’s Blade (Prequel Novellas)

A collection of novellas that chronicle Celaena’s life before Throne of Glass, The Assassin’s Blade provides valuable insight into her origins, personality, and motivations. While not required reading for the main plot, it enriches the story and offers emotional depth. Fans often recommend reading it either before the first book or right before Queen of Shadows to maximize impact.

7. Throne of Glass (Book 1)

The book that started it all. While Throne of Glass is essential for understanding Celaena’s early journey, it often ranks lower due to its more straightforward plot and slightly underdeveloped world-building compared to later books. However, it’s still an enjoyable fantasy read and introduces key players and themes that blossom throughout the series.

8. Tower of Dawn (Book 6)

This companion novel follows Chaol Westfall's journey to the Southern Continent and takes place parallel to the events of Empire of Storms. While some readers find it slower-paced and miss Aelin's presence, others appreciate the deep character work and the introduction of important characters and plot threads. For fans of Chaol or those seeking world expansion, Tower of Dawn is essential.

Suggested Throne of Glass Series Order

If you're planning your reading journey, here is the recommended throne glass series order to follow for the best experience:

1. The Assassin’s Blade (Prequel novellas – optional to read first or later)
2. Throne of Glass
3. Crown of Midnight
4. Heir of Fire
5. Queen of Shadows
6. Empire of Storms
7. Tower of Dawn (takes place simultaneously with Empire of Storms)
8. Kingdom of Ash

Reading The Assassin’s Blade first gives rich backstory, but some prefer reading it later to avoid spoilers. Most fans recommend reading Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn either simultaneously (chapter by chapter using a guide) or one after the other before starting Kingdom of Ash.

So, whether you're a new reader or re-reading, it's crucial to follow the correct throne of glass book series in order to fully enjoy the development and nuances of the storyline.

Final Thoughts

Ranking the Throne of Glass books is no easy feat. Each installment brings something unique to the table, and different readers will naturally have their favorites. While Queen of Shadows and Empire of Storms tend to top most lists for their high stakes and emotional payoff, earlier books like Crown of Midnight or Heir of Fire build the strong foundation that makes the climaxes so powerful.

If you're planning to dive into this epic journey, following the right throne of glass order of books will ensure that you don’t miss the emotional beats or important revelations. Sarah J. Maas has created a world worth losing yourself in—and each book, from worst to best, plays a crucial role in that story.