For over two decades, George R.R. Martin's *A Song of Ice and Fire* has captivated readers and viewers alike, solidifying its place as a landmark work of fantasy fiction. The series' enduring popularity stems from its bestselling novels and the phenomenal success of HBO's *Game of Thrones*, further fueled by the acclaimed prequel series, *House of the Dragon*. With *House of the Dragon* Season 2 now streaming, there's no better time to explore the rich tapestry of Westeros through the eyes of its creator. This guide provides a chronological reading order for those eager to delve into the *Game of Thrones* books.

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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?

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 conclusion offers a glimpse into potential storylines. The question of whether Martin will finish the series himself remains a topic of much discussion among fans.

Beyond the main novels, Martin has expanded the world with companion works: three *Dunk & Egg* novellas (collected in *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms*), three Targaryen-focused novellas (expanded in *Fire & Blood*), and the comprehensive *The World of Ice & Fire*. More details on these below.

Game of Thrones Book Sets

For collectors, a complete *Game of Thrones* book set is a rewarding option. Various sets are available, but the leather-bound edition currently featured in an Amazon book sale offers a particularly elegant 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: These brief plot summaries contain only minor spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.

1. *Fire & Blood*

*Fire & Blood*: 300 Years Before *A Game of Thrones*
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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 is situated near the start of *A Song of Ice and Fire*. The book covers the first 150 years of the Targaryen dynasty; a second volume is expected to cover the remaining years.

The book encompasses the reigns of six Targaryen rulers, beginning with Aegon I and his conquest. It includes and expands upon three previously published novellas: *The Princess and the Queen*, *The Rogue Prince*, and *The Sons of the Dragon*. *The Rise of the Dragon* offers a condensed, illustrated version.

2. *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms*

*A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms*
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*A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms* collects three novellas featuring Ser Duncan the Tall and Aegon V Targaryen. Set approximately 90 years before *A Game of Thrones*, these stories offer a compelling side-adventure, forming the basis for an upcoming TV adaptation.

3. *A Game of Thrones*

*A Game of Thrones*
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The inaugural novel introduces Westeros, its prominent families, and a diverse cast of characters. Set during Robert Baratheon's reign, it initiates the War of the Five Kings, setting the stage for political intrigue, betrayal, and conflict.

The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, including Eddard Stark, Catelyn Stark, Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Bran Stark, Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen.

4. *A Clash of Kings*

*A Clash of Kings*
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This installment continues the War of the Five Kings, showcasing the struggles of various factions and the journeys of key characters.

5. *A Storm of Swords*

*A Storm of Swords*
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The third novel largely concludes the War of the Five Kings, though lingering conflicts and individual challenges persist.

6. *A Feast for Crows*

*A Feast for Crows*
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Running concurrently with *A Dance with Dragons*, this novel focuses on characters in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne, as winter approaches. The story was split into two books due to its length.

7. *A Dance with Dragons*

*A Dance with Dragons*
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This novel reunites with characters absent from *A Feast for Crows*, continuing their storylines and introducing new developments.

Bonus: *The World of Ice & Fire*

*The World of Ice & Fire*
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A companion book providing a rich history of Westeros and its surrounding regions, offering detailed background information and illustrations.

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*

*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 shared previews and updates on its progress.

*A Dream of Spring*

The planned final book in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* series.

*Fire & Blood* Volume 2

A continuation of the Targaryen history.

Future *Dunk & Egg* Novellas

Martin plans to write more *Dunk & Egg* novellas after completing *The Winds of Winter*. An HBO series based on these novellas is also in development.

For further reading, explore our list of the best fantasy books or find the perfect reading light.