For over two decades, George R.R. Martin's *A Song of Ice and Fire* has captivated readers and cemented its place as a landmark fantasy saga. The bestselling novels, amplified by HBO's hugely successful adaptation, have firmly embedded themselves in popular culture, a legacy further solidified by the acclaimed *House of the Dragon* series. 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 offers a chronological reading order for those eager to explore the *Game of Thrones* books, including companion works. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to Westeros, this guide will help you navigate the rich tapestry of Martin's world.
**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—*The Winds of Winter* and *A Dream of Spring*—currently in progress. While fans eagerly await Martin's completion of the series, a ChatGPT-generated ending has sparked considerable discussion. The uncertainty surrounding Martin's completion of the series remains a point of much speculation amongst fans.
Beyond the main saga, Martin has enriched the world with several 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 below.
Game of Thrones Book Sets
For those who prefer physical copies, collecting the *Game of Thrones* books as a set offers a rewarding experience. Several sets are available, but the leather-bound edition currently featured in an Amazon sale stands out for its 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
(Note: Plot summaries below contain only minor spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.)
1. Fire & Blood
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*Fire & Blood*, the source material for HBO's *House of the Dragon*, chronicles the 300-year reign of House Targaryen. Unlike the *A Song of Ice and Fire* novels, it's presented as a historical account by Archmaester Gyldayn, whose perspective frames the narrative. While Gyldayn writes around the start of *A Song of Ice and Fire*, the events recounted begin 300 years prior to *A Game of Thrones*, spanning approximately 150 years (with a second volume expected to cover the remaining years).
This volume incorporates and expands on three previously published novellas: *The Princess and the Queen*, *The Rogue Prince*, and *The Sons of the Dragon*. *The Rise of the Dragon*, a condensed illustrated version, is also available.
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*, these stories offer supplementary adventures and perspectives, though they aren't essential to the main narrative. The novellas included are *The Hedge Knight*, *The Sworn Sword*, and *The Mystery Knight*.
3. A Game of Thrones
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The inaugural novel introduces Westeros, its prominent families, and key characters. Set during Robert Baratheon's reign, it initiates the War of the Five Kings, showcasing themes of political intrigue, betrayal, and conflict. Point-of-view characters include Eddard Stark, Catelyn Stark, Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Bran Stark, Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen.
4. A Clash of Kings
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This installment continues the War of the Five Kings, depicting the struggles for power in King's Landing, Jon Snow's journey with the Night's Watch, and Daenerys's experiences in Essos. New point-of-view characters are added, including Theon Greyjoy and Davos Seaworth.
5. A Storm of Swords
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This novel largely concludes the War of the Five Kings, though conflicts persist. The Stark children face various challenges, Jon Snow interacts with wildlings, and Daenerys's leadership is tested. Samwell Tarly and Jaime Lannister are introduced as point-of-view characters.
6. A Feast for Crows
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This book runs concurrently with *A Dance with Dragons*, focusing on characters in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne as winter approaches. Key characters from previous books are absent, allowing for the introduction of new perspectives and storylines.
7. A Dance with Dragons
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This novel reunites readers with characters absent from *A Feast for Crows*, picking up after *A Storm of Swords*. It introduces new conflicts and challenges, advancing the overall narrative while running parallel to *A Feast for Crows* in terms of timeline.
Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire
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This companion book provides a comprehensive history of Martin's world, from the Dawn Age to Robert's Rebellion. It includes detailed family trees, maps, and information on the various regions and cultures.
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, picking up after *A Dance with Dragons*. Martin has released preview chapters and blog updates, indicating the direction of the narrative.
A Dream of Spring
The planned final novel in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* series.
Fire & Blood Volume 2
A continuation of the Targaryen history, covering the remaining years of their reign.
Future Dunk & Egg Novellas
Martin intends to write further *Dunk & Egg* novellas, though their release is contingent on the completion of *The Winds of Winter*. He has outlined several potential storylines and titles.
An HBO series adaptation of *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms* is in development, with a projected premiere in late 2025.
**For further reading, explore our list of the best fantasy books or find the perfect reading light.**
