Over the past 27 years, George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series has become a cornerstone of modern fantasy literature, captivating audiences with its intricate plots and rich world-building. The series gained mainstream recognition through HBO's groundbreaking adaptation, "Game of Thrones," and its success continues with the acclaimed prequel, "House of the Dragon." Now, with all episodes of "House of the Dragon: Season 2" available for streaming, there's no better time to explore the source material that inspired these epic tales. For those new to the saga, this guide will help you navigate the "Game of Thrones" books in chronological order.
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- 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 in the Series?
George R.R. Martin has published five novels in his "A Song of Ice and Fire" saga. He is currently working on two more volumes, "The Winds of Winter" and "A Dream of Spring." While fans eagerly await these concluding books, some have even used AI tools like ChatGPT to speculate on potential endings. In addition to the main series, Martin has enriched the universe with companion works, including three "Dunk & Egg" novellas (collected in "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms"), three Targaryen-focused novellas (expanded in "Fire & Blood"), and a comprehensive world guide, "The World of Ice & Fire."
Game of Thrones Book Sets
For fans who appreciate physical media, a book set is an excellent way to enjoy the series. The most visually appealing option is the leather-bound set, currently available at a discount during the Amazon book sale.
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
These brief plot synopses are designed for newcomers and contain only mild spoilers.
- Fire & Blood
Fire & Blood: 300 Years Before A Game of Thrones
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"Fire & Blood" serves as the historical backdrop for HBO's "House of the Dragon," chronicling the 300-year reign of House Targaryen. Narrated by the fictional archmaester Gyldayn, this book spans the lifetimes of six Targaryen rulers, starting with Aegon I Targaryen and his conquest of Westeros. It includes the infamous "Dance of the Dragons," and integrates three previously published novellas: "The Princess and the Queen," "The Rogue Prince," and "The Sons of the Dragon." A condensed and illustrated version, "The Rise of the Dragon," has also been released.
- A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
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This collection features three novellas centered around Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire Aegon V Targaryen, set roughly 90 years before "A Game of Thrones." These stories, which will inspire the next Game of Thrones TV series, provide additional depth to the world of Westeros. The novellas included are "The Hedge Knight," "The Sworn Sword," and "The Mystery Knight."
- A Game of Thrones
A Game of Thrones
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The inaugural novel of the series, published in 1996, introduces readers to the world of Westeros and the political turmoil following Robert Baratheon's reign. It sets the stage for the War of the Five Kings, with multiple perspectives driving the narrative, including those of the Stark family, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen.
- A Clash of Kings
A Clash of Kings
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This sequel continues the saga of the War of the Five Kings, with various factions vying for control. New perspectives, such as Theon Greyjoy and Davos Seaworth, are introduced alongside the returning characters.
- A Storm of Swords
A Storm of Swords
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The third novel brings the War of the Five Kings to a close, focusing on the aftermath and new challenges faced by the characters. Jaime Lannister and Samwell Tarly join the roster of point-of-view characters.
- A Feast for Crows
A Feast for Crows
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"A Feast for Crows" runs concurrently with the next book, focusing on political machinations in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne. It introduces new characters while some fan favorites, like Jon Snow and Daenerys, are absent, reserved for the following volume.
- A Dance with Dragons
A Dance with Dragons
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This novel reunites readers with characters missing from "A Feast for Crows" and progresses the story beyond the events of the previous books. It includes a wide array of perspectives, from Jon Snow to new characters like Jon Connington and Melisandre.
Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire
The World of Ice and Fire
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This companion book provides a detailed history of Westeros, complete with illustrations and family trees. It covers the Dawn Age to Robert's Rebellion, making it an essential resource for fans eager to dive deeper into the lore.
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
Martin has announced the upcoming release of "A Feast for Crows: The Illustrated Edition," set for November 4, 2025. This edition follows the successful illustrated version of the third book.
A Feast for Crows: The Illustrated Edition
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The Winds of Winter
The eagerly awaited sixth book, "The Winds of Winter," will continue the saga following "A Dance with Dragons." Martin has shared preview chapters and confirmed point-of-view characters such as Tyrion and Arya. Despite delays, he remains committed to finishing this volume, which he claims is 75% complete and will exceed 1,500 pages.
A Dream of Spring
The final book, tentatively titled "A Dream of Spring," remains in the planning stages, with Martin's focus currently on "The Winds of Winter."
Fire & Blood Volume 2
Martin is also working on the second volume of "Fire & Blood," which will cover the remaining 150 years of the Targaryen dynasty.
Future Dunk & Egg Novellas
Additional "Dunk & Egg" novellas are in the works, with Martin planning to write about their entire lives. The fourth novella, set in Winterfell and involving the "She-Wolves," and another titled "The Village Hero," set in the Riverlands, are among his future projects. An HBO series based on these novellas, "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms," is slated to premiere on Max and HBO in late 2025.
For more reading recommendations, explore the best fantasy books list or consider investing in one of the best reading lights to enhance your reading experience.
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