Welcome to the world of Throne of Glass—a series packed with assassins, magic, heartbreak, and more plot twists than a pretzel factory. Whether you're a die-hard Sarah J. Maas fan or just dipping your toes into her works for the first time, knowing the right order to read these books can make all the difference in understanding the full scope of this epic tale.
Why does reading order matter? Well, this isn’t just one assassin's story. The Throne of Glass series spans multiple kingdoms, introduces a sprawling cast of unforgettable characters, and weaves together threads you'd miss if you skipped around. Reading in the wrong order might feel like jumping into an intense TV series in season 4—it’s fun, but you’d probably spend half the time Googling context.
Fear not! We’re here to guide you through the series reading order, whether you're about to pick up your first book or plotting a re-read (which, let's be honest, you probably will).
Throne Of Glass Reading Order
Ah, the million-dollar question every Maas fan debates: do you read the Throne of Glass books in the order they were published or go for the chronological timeline? Both approaches have their pros and cons, so let's break it down.Option 1: Publication Order
The publication order gives you the series just the way Sarah J. Maas intended us to experience it. You start with Throne of Glass as your gateway into Celaena Sardothien's world, and the prequels (The Assassin’s Blade) come later, filling in the gaps of her mysterious past.- Pros:
- You follow the story as it was unveiled, experiencing each book's suspense and buildup the way other readers did.
- The prequels feel like bonus content that adds more depth after you’re invested in Celaena’s character.
- Cons:
- Once you’ve read the series, you might wish you’d had the background from The Assassin’s Blade earlier.
Option 2: Chronological Order
This order places The Assassin’s Blade first, giving you all the juicy details of Celaena’s backstory before plunging you into the main events of Throne of Glass.- Pros:
- Everything connects better because you already know Celaena’s history, relationships, and motivations.
- You’ll catch references in later books that might’ve flown over your head otherwise.
- Cons:
- The prequels are emotionally impactful if you’ve already fallen in love with the character. Starting with them might feel less rewarding.
Our Recommendation
Unless you’re a stickler for timelines, we suggest starting with publication order. It balances mystery and reveals perfectly, giving you enough time to grow attached to Celaena before her backstory takes center stage. Once you’ve read the series in publication order, consider doing a re-read in chronological order—it hits differently the second time!
Throne of Glass Series Order: Full Reading List
Here’s the ultimate guide to the reading order for the Throne of Glass series. We’ve included a brief, spoiler-free description of each book to help you understand what’s in store.1. The Assassin’s Blade (Optional Prequel Novellas)
This collection of five novellas explores Celaena Sardothien’s life before the events of the main series. You’ll follow her on deadly missions, uncover secrets about her past, and meet pivotal characters. It’s optional, but highly recommended—even if you come back to it after reading the first couple of books.2. Throne of Glass
The book that started it all. Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin, is plucked from a brutal prison to compete in a competition to become the King’s Champion. It’s full of magic, danger, and a sprinkling of romance. This is your starting point if you’re following publication order.3. Crown of Midnight
Celaena’s new role as the King’s Champion comes with a dark twist. Secrets deepen, alliances shift, and we learn that nothing in this kingdom is as straightforward as it seems. Expect heartbreak, revelations, and Celaena stepping into her full badassery.4. Heir of Fire
Prepare to travel far beyond the castle as Celaena grapples with loss, discovers new allies, and confronts the power she’s tried to keep hidden. This is the book where the series really levels up—seriously, grab the tissues.5. Queen of Shadows
Celaena returns with a vengeance, ready to reclaim her power and face the enemies who’ve wronged her. Friendships are tested, enemies are crushed (literally), and the stakes reach dizzying heights.6. Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn (Tandem Read)
Here’s where things get tricky—and totally worth it. These two books take place simultaneously, meaning you can read them one after the other OR alternate chapters in a tandem read for maximum drama and impact.- Empire of Storms: Celaena’s story speeds toward an epic climax, with battles, betrayals, and major plot twists that’ll leave you breathless.
- Tower of Dawn: Focusing on a beloved side character, this book offers a new perspective on the events of Empire of Storms while answering big questions about the larger world.
7. Kingdom of Ash
The final book in the series is an emotional rollercoaster. (No, seriously—prepare snacks, drinks, and emotional support.) Celaena and her allies face impossible odds in the ultimate battle for survival. Every thread in the series comes together for an explosive, unforgettable finale.
Throne Of Glass (aka TOG)
EXPLORE
The Throne of Glass Tandem Read Explained
Most book series don’t require a game plan to read, but Sarah J. Maas decided to keep us all on our toes with the Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn tandem read. What’s a tandem read, you ask? It’s when two books in the series happen at the same time, plot-wise, and the events intersect in ways that will blow your mind.Instead of reading them one after the other, you alternate between chapters or sections of Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn. Why? Because doing so reveals the story as it was meant to unfold—two sides of the same coin, coming together in epic Maas-fashion for maximum emotional impact. Trust us, it’s worth the slight headache of flipping back and forth.
Why Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn Should Be Read Together
Here’s the deal. Empire of Storms follows Celaena (hem, Aelin) and her squad as they march toward one of the most jaw-dropping finales in the series. It’s all action, scheming, and heartbreak. Meanwhile, Tower of Dawn zooms in on Chaol, one of the main characters we’ve followed since the beginning, as he deals with his own trials on a totally different continent.These two stories happen at the EXACT same time and are deeply connected. Events in one book impact the other—character choices, alliances, and big reveals. Reading them together creates a more seamless experience and pulls all the narrative threads tighter. Think of it like watching two Marvel movies that overlap in the timeline; you could watch them separately, but seeing them side-by-side gives the story so much more depth (and makes the ending hit even harder).
How to Alternate Chapters for the Best Experience
The tandem read might sound intimidating, but don’t worry—there’s a foolproof way to do it. Wing it using the simple method, or you can read using a detailed version.The Simple Version:
- Start with Empire of Storms, Chapter 1.
- Switch to Tower of Dawn after a few chapters. You’ll find several detailed reading guides online, but as a rule of thumb, alternating every couple of chapters keeps the pacing even.
- Pay attention to where major events occur. Some scenes are mirrored between the books, revealing new perspectives you’ll miss if you read them separately.
- Don’t overthink it! Whether you stick to a guide or go with the flow, the tandem read is an experience.
The Detailed TOG Tandem Read: Chapter by Chapter
- EOS - Prologue
- EOS - Chapter 1
- EOS - Chapter 2
- EOS - Chapter 3
- EOS - Chapter 4
- EOS - Chapter 5
- TOD - Chapter 1
- EOS - Chapter 6
- EOS - Chapter 7
- EOS - Chapter 8
- TOD - Chapter 2
- TOD - Chapter 3
- EOS - Chapter 9
- EOS - Chapter 10
- TOD - Chapter 4
- TOD - Chapter 5
- TOD - Chapter 6
- EOS - Chapter 11
- TOD - Chapter 7
- EOS - Chapter 12
- EOS - Chapter 13
- TOD - Chapter 8
- TOD - Chapter 9
- TOD - Chapter 10
- EOS - Chapter 14
- EOS - Chapter 15
- EOS - Chapter 16
- TOD - Chapter 11
- TOD - Chapter 12
- EOS - Chapter 17
- EOS - Chapter 18
- TOD - Chapter 13
- TOD - Chapter 14
- TOD - Chapter 15
- TOD - Chapter 16
- EOS - Chapter 19
- TOD - Chapter 17
- EOS - Chapter 20
- EOS - Chapter 21
- EOS - Chapter 22
- EOS - Chapter 23
- TOD - Chapter 18
- TOD - Chapter 19
- TOD - Chapter 20
- TOD - Chapter 21
- EOS - Chapter 24
- EOS - Chapter 25
- TOD - Chapter 22
- TOD - Chapter 23
- EOS - Chapter 26
- TOD - Chapter 24
- EOS - Chapter 27
- EOS - Chapter 28
- EOS - Chapter 29
- TOD - Chapter 25
- TOD - Chapter 26
- TOD - Chapter 27
- TOD - Chapter 28
- EOS - Chapter 30
- TOD - Chapter 29
- TOD - Chapter 30
- TOD - Chapter 31
- EOS - Chapter 31
- TOD - Chapter 32
- EOS - Chapter 32
- TOD - Chapter 33
- TOD - Chapter 34
- TOD - Chapter 35
- EOS - Chapter 33
- EOS - Chapter 34
- EOS - Chapter 35
- EOS - Chapters 36–41
- TOD - Chapters 36–Epilogue
- EOS - Chapters 42–Epilogue
Optional vs. Required Reading for TOG
With a series this expansive, it’s natural to wonder if every single book is necessary. The short answer? For the best experience, yes. But if you’re in a time crunch or on the fence about certain titles, here’s what you really need to know.Do You Need to Start with The Assassin’s Blade?
Technically, no. The Assassin’s Blade is a compilation of five prequel novellas that take place before the events of Throne of Glass. If you’re starting out, it’s not "required" to understand the main plot—but reading it will give you invaluable context about Celaena’s past, her motivations, and her relationships with key characters.Why you should read it:
- You’ll learn crucial backstory points that enrich the entire series.
- It introduces pivotal supporting characters who show up later (and trust us, you’ll care more if you know them from the start).
Is Tower of Dawn Skippable?
Absolutely, 100% NOT. Some readers initially thought Tower of Dawn was an optional spin-off because it shifts focus to Chaol while Celaena’s main story doesn’t explicitly move forward until Kingdom of Ash. But skipping this book would be a huge mistake.Why you shouldn’t skip it:
- It introduces an entirely new part of the world, which is crucial to the final book (Kingdom of Ash).
- Key characters and alliances come into play here, without which the finale doesn’t make nearly as much sense.
- Chaol’s storyline is deeply emotional and provides healing, growth, and redemption that adds layers to the series.
What Is The Throne of Glass Series About? (Spoiler-Free!)
Imagine a story where deadly assassins, ancient magic, corrupt kingdoms, and fierce warriors collide in a tale of survival, friendship, and destiny. Welcome to Throne of Glass, Sarah J. Maas’s epic fantasy series that has captivated millions of readers worldwide. At its heart, the series is about a young woman with a dark, mysterious past and a fate she never imagined taking her on a journey that will change the world.But don’t get too comfortable—this series isn’t just pretty dresses and court intrigue (although there’s plenty of that too). It’s a rollercoaster of high-stakes battles, heart-wrenching betrayals, and jaw-dropping twists that will keep you up reading “just one more chapter” until 3 AM.
If you’re into rich world-building, morally complex characters, and a narrative that grows darker and grander with each book, Throne of Glass is going to check all your boxes.
Themes of Survival, Betrayal, and Redemption
At its core, Throne of Glass is about survival. From brutal prisons to deadly competitions, our protagonist is constantly fighting the odds stacked against her. But beyond mere survival, the story is also about betrayal—friends who turn into enemies, kingdoms that crumble under deceit, and the uneasy alliances formed in the shadow of distrust.And ultimately, it’s about redemption. The characters (yes, plural) are flawed—they make mistakes, they fall, but they also rise, stronger, sharper, and more determined. It’s a series that shows you can reclaim yourself even in the face of insurmountable odds.
Sarah J Maas Book Collection
EXPLORE THE ENTIRE
Meet Celaena Sardothien and the Ensemble Cast
Celaena Sardothien
Celaena isn’t your typical fantasy heroine. She’s got swagger, a sharp tongue, and skills as an assassin that make her absolutely lethal. But she’s far from one-dimensional. Underneath her confidence lies a well of vulnerabilities, inner demons, and a tragic past she’s desperate to move on from. Celaena is the kind of character you root for even when she’s making morally questionable choices because, at her core, she’s fighting for something bigger than herself.One minute she’s disarming bad guys (literally) and the next, she’s enjoying a lavish meal while snarking her way through a royal court. Her charisma and complexity are what make her unforgettable.
The Ensemble Cast
While Celaena is undeniably the star of the show, the supporting cast brings richness and depth to the series. From loyal friends to star-crossed lovers, and power-hungry villains to anti-heroes fighting their inner darkness, everyone gets a moment to shine (and occasionally break your heart). Sarah J. Maas doesn’t craft cardboard side characters—each one has their own goals, strengths, and flaws that make them feel alive.Spotlight on Throne of Glass Characters
The Fierce Assassin, Celaena Sardothien
Celaena is equal parts deadly assassin and glamorous socialite—oh, and she has a love for books that rivals her obsession with fine clothing (relatable, right?). Throughout the series, we see her grow into her true power, grappling with her identity and destiny while slicing through anyone who dares to underestimate her. She’s witty, proud, and unapologetically herself, making her a protagonist worth following to the ends of the earth (or the nearest battlefield).But Celaena isn’t all about strength and sass. Her struggles with loss, trauma, and rebuilding trust hit hard, making her feel deeply human amid the magical chaos.
Key Allies and Foes Across the Series
- The Loyal Ally: Every great hero needs their trusty sidekick, and Celaena’s allies offer loyalty in the most unexpected ways. Some become her family, standing by her side as she takes on impossible odds.
- The Mysterious Love Interests: Without giving anything away, let's just say the romance in this series is an event. You’ll swoon, you’ll cry, and you’ll pick sides—but be warned, Maas is not afraid to wreck your heart.
- The Riveting Foes: The villains in Throne of Glass don’t just twirl their mustaches. Their motives are cunning, and their actions send waves through the story. Some you’ll hate from the start, and others might surprise you when their true colors are revealed.
How Throne of Glass Books Connect to Other Sarah J. Maas Series
Sarah J. Maas didn’t just create one iconic world—she created several. If you’re a fan of her works, you’ve likely caught wind of possible connections between Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), and Crescent City. While Throne of Glass is a standalone series, it shares threads with Maas’s other worlds that eagle-eyed fans love to dissect.Shared Themes and Easter Eggs
Maas’s books are soaked in recurring themes that resonate across her series.- Power and Redemption: Every series features characters grappling with inner demons and rising into their power (sometimes literally). Whether it’s Celaena breaking free from her past or Feyre mastering her abilities, Maas excels at heart-stirring redemption arcs.
- Found Family: Oh, the feels. From Celaena’s scrappy band of misfits to Feyre’s High Court inner circle, Maas doesn’t just write about characters who fight together—they live, love, and grow as a family.
- Easter Eggs Galore: Look closely, and you’ll find subtle references that seem to link the series. Whether it’s a particular magical artifact or the mention of a mysterious faraway world, Maas sprinkles tantalizing hints for her superfans.
Fan Theories About a Crossover
Here’s where things get wild. Fans have long speculated that Maas’s series could be connected through parallel universes or timelines.- Some theorize that the wyrdmarks from Throne of Glass may have ties to the magic seen in Crescent City.
- Others suspect characters (or worlds) might collide in future books. After all, certain cryptic scenes in Crescent City give off major connective vibes—without spoiling, let's just say keep your eyes peeled for crossover potential.
Looking For Another Series?
Throne Of Glass Book Order
FAQ
Final Thoughts on the TOG Reading Order
Why Reading in the Right Order Enhances the Experience
Each book in the Throne of Glass series builds carefully on the last, introducing new layers to the story and deepening your emotional connection to the characters. Reading in order ensures you experience every jaw-dropping reveal, gut-wrenching loss, and epic triumph as Maas intended.Shop the Throne of Glass Series
Fully hooked and ready to embark on this unforgettable adventure? Don’t wait—grab the complete series and all the Throne of Glass essentials right here. Whether you’re building your bookshelf or gifting a box set to a fellow fan, we’ve got everything you need to bring Erilea to life.Start your collection now and join the legions of readers who’ve fallen in love with Celaena and her world. Book hoarding is encouraged!
With this guide in hand, you’re ready to tackle the Throne of Glass series like a pro. No matter where you start or how you read, the magic, mayhem, and Maas-level twists are sure to leave a mark. Now, go forth and conquer TOG!