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. Its popularity soared with the phenomenal success of HBO's *Game of Thrones* and continues to thrive thanks to the equally impressive *House of the Dragon*. 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 helps navigate the sprawling world of *Game of Thrones* books, presenting them in chronological order for both seasoned fans and newcomers.
**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*—still in progress. The anticipation for their release is immense, with some fans even resorting to AI tools like ChatGPT to speculate on possible endings. The uncertainty surrounding Martin's completion of the series adds to its mystique.
Beyond the main novels, 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 each are provided 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 book sale stands out for its impressive 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 mild spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.
1. Fire & Blood
See it at Amazon
*Fire & Blood*, the inspiration for HBO's *House of the Dragon*, chronicles the 300-year reign of House Targaryen. Unlike the main *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, with a second volume expected to cover the remaining years.
Fire & Blood 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
See it at Amazon
This collection features three novellas starring Ser Duncan the Tall and Aegon V Targaryen, set approximately 90 years before *A Game of Thrones*. While not essential to the main storyline, it offers engaging adventures and fresh perspectives within the Seven Kingdoms. It comprises *The Hedge Knight*, *The Sworn Sword*, and *The Mystery Knight*. An upcoming HBO series will adapt this material.
3. A Game of Thrones
See it at Amazon
The inaugural novel introduces Westeros, its prominent families, and the diverse cast of characters. It sets the stage for the War of the Five Kings, showcasing themes of political intrigue, betrayal, and conflict that define the series.
4. A Clash of Kings
See it at Amazon
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 adventures across the Narrow Sea.
5. A Storm of Swords
See it at Amazon
Brings the War of the Five Kings to a close, though conflicts linger. The Stark children face new challenges, Jon Snow interacts with wildlings, and Daenerys's power grows in Essos.
6. A Feast for Crows
See it at Amazon
Runs concurrently with *A Dance with Dragons*, focusing on characters in King's Landing, the Iron Islands, and Dorne. Key characters from previous books are absent, leading to a shift in perspective and plotlines.
7. A Dance with Dragons
See it at Amazon
Reintroduces characters absent from *A Feast for Crows*, continuing their stories from *A Storm of Swords*. The novel features multiple interwoven narratives, showcasing the expanding scope of the conflict.
Bonus: The World of Ice & Fire
See it at Amazon
A comprehensive companion book offering a detailed history of Westeros and its surrounding regions, including family trees, maps, and information on various cultures and events.
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
See it at Amazon
See it at Barnes & Noble
See it at Target
The Winds of Winter
The highly anticipated sixth novel, picking up after *A Dance with Dragons*. Martin has shared updates and preview chapters, promising a departure from the television series.
A Dream of Spring
The planned final novel in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* saga.
Fire & Blood Volume 2
A continuation of the Targaryen history, covering the second half of their 300-year reign.
Future Dunk & Egg Novellas
Martin plans to write more *Dunk & Egg* novellas, but their release is contingent on the completion of *The Winds of Winter*. He has outlined several potential stories.
For more, explore our list of the best fantasy books or find the perfect reading light.
