Decoded
What is the correct order to read George R. R. Martin’s Game of Thrones books?
Many fans contemplate a foray into George R. R. Martin’s literary universe as anticipation mounts for The Winds of Winter. For those who want to read the series, keep Westeros’s chronological history in mind, as there is a particular order to follow.
Historians in this world focus on the era after Aegon’s conquest. They divide time into “AC” (After Conquest) and “BC” (Before Conquest). Thus, the narrative of Westeros has historically progressed since Aegon’s rise to power.
As a result, a noticeable order emerges for those seeking a cohesive reading experience. This article will serve as a guide to readers who want to read all the books in A Song Of Ice and Fire series in chronological order.
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1. Fire and Blood
George R. R. Martin’s narrative is a maze of interconnected stories. At the heart of this narrative is A Game of Thrones, which is positioned at the tail end of the series. However, the saga truly begins with Fire and Blood.
This book traces the epic tale of Aegon’s conquest and the sprawling history of House Targaryen, culminating with the reign of Aegon III. This foundation sets the stage for the ongoing prequel series, House of the Dragon.
The section covering this period is fragmented into chapters, ominously dubbed “The Dying of the Dragons.” Amidst the turmoil, figures like Jaehaerys I and Maegor I emerge, sparking debates over moral ambiguity.
Fire and Blood gives insight into the past. Many questions emerge regarding the Targaryens’ dominion over land that was not rightfully theirs, and readers ponder the repercussions of Aegon’s Conquest.
Viserys I’s reign inadvertently causes the dragons to fade into obscurity. This happens in the era of House of the Dragon and is a pivotal moment, shaping the fate of Westeros in unforeseen ways.
2. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
George R.R. Martin’s Tales of Dunk and Egg are collected into a single novel titled A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. The book covers the latter years of Daeron II’s reign, with the potential for future installments to neatly slot into this period.
Dunk, an unwitting hedge knight, finds himself caught in the machinations of royalty. He encounters Egg (Prince Aegon), who will one day ascend the throne unbeknownst to him.
The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of simmering tensions in Westeros. Most notable is the ongoing rivalry between Bloodraven and Bittersteel, which the ongoing Blackfyre Rebellions further exacerbate.
Prince Aerion, Rohanne Webber, and Bloodraven mark pivotal moments in Dunk’s journey. The series reaches a crescendo during the Second Blackfyre rebellion at Whitewalls.
Dunk and Egg become heroes, laying the foundation for becoming essential figures in the history of Westeros. Future novels promise further intrigue, including ventures to the North. Martin plans to expand upon the stories of the two, and readers can anticipate a number of future adventures.
Taking place nearly a century before the events of A Game of Thrones, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms compiles the first three official prequel novellas to George R. R. Martin’s ongoing masterwork, A Song of Ice and Fire.
3. A Game of Thrones
The genesis of George R.R. Martin’s epic saga unfurls with A Game of Thrones. This book marks the inception of a sprawling narrative that captivated audiences worldwide. It plays a pivotal role in setting the stage for the entire saga, introducing key characters and themes that will shape the narrative.
Against the backdrop of political intrigue, characters are introduced, their complexities laid bare. Robert Baratheon’s rule is marked by folly. Ned Stark navigates the treacherous waters of King’s Landing with a sense of honor that proves fatal. In the crucible of this tumultuous world, alliances are forged and shattered, and the seeds of conflict are sown.
Daenerys Targaryen emerges as a crucial figure in her journey from exile to power. Amidst the machinations of power-hungry nobles is the looming threat of the supernatural. Martin’s penchant for storytelling becomes increasingly evident as the series unfolds.
It challenges readers to grapple with the complexities of his meticulously crafted universe. With its shocking twists and unforgettable characters, A Game of Thrones is a testament to Martin’s mastery of the genre. The book laid the foundation for a literary phenomenon that continues to captivate global audiences.
4. A Clash of Kings
In “A Clash of Kings,” the turbulent aftermath of Robert’s Rebellion erupts into open warfare. Contenders vie for kingship, shattering illusions of Targaryen dominance lingering since Aerys’s downfall. The realm is plunged into chaos, teetering on the brink of civil war.
Legality is a tenuous concept and may not prevail over right. Balon Greyjoy’s rebellion and Stannis Baratheon’s claim to the throne cause further turmoil.
Renly’s bid for kingship challenges the established order. Robb Stark, heralded as the North’s savior, faces his own trials as he navigates the treacherous waters of alliances and betrayals.
Despite possessing the resources for victory, Robb’s youth and naivety are his undoing. It leads him into a fateful pact with Walder Frey that will have far-reaching consequences.
Jaime Lannister’s capture heralds a turning point, signaling the erosion of Lannister supremacy. As rival factions clash and alliances fracture, the stage is set for a cataclysmic confrontation.
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5. A Storm of Swords
In A Storm of Swords, the long-awaited and brutal Red Wedding leaves Robb Stark and his mother, Catelyn, slain. Walder Frey’s betrayal leaves few survivors aside from the likes of Stannis Baratheon and Joffrey Baratheon. The latter eventually meets his demise in the infamous Purple Wedding.
Amidst the chaos, Oberyn Martell’s fiery quest for vengeance against the Mountain ends in tragedy. Jaime Lannister finds an unlikely ally in Brienne of Tarth as he journeys through war-torn lands.
With the conflict winding down, attention shifts to King’s Landing. Tommen Baratheon ascends to the Iron Throne amidst his union with Margaery Tyrell. Across the Narrow Sea, Daenerys Targaryen solidifies her power base. She conquers Meereen and positions herself as a queen in her own right, laying the groundwork for her eventual return to Westeros.
As the forces of Westeros join and fractures deepen, the stage is set for further intrigue and upheaval in the ever-evolving Game of Thrones.
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6. A Feast For Crows
In A Feast for Crows, the political landscape of Westeros continues to evolve. Stannis Baratheon’s precarious position prompts him to seek alliances with Jon Snow, now commander of the Night’s Watch.
Stannis’s bid for power hinges on rallying the Wildlings to his cause. Meanwhile, Daenerys Targaryen grapples with the complexities of ruling in Meereen. Internal strife threatens to unravel her efforts at governance.
Tyrion Lannister’s cunning machinations bring him into Dany’s orbit. He offers his expertise to help her reclaim the Iron Throne. Jon Connington’s efforts to legitimize Rhaegar’s supposed son as the heir to the throne add a layer of intrigue.
However, doubts persist regarding this would-be ruler’s true lineage. Whispers of a connection to House Dayne cast a shadow over his claim. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, the wheels of fate continue to turn.
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7. A Dance With Dragons
A Dance with Dragons continues to weave a complex narrative across the vast and tumultuous landscapes of Westeros and Essos. Published in two parts, “Dreams and Dust” and “After the Feast,” the novel spans over 1,000 pages.
In the North, Stannis Baratheon stakes his claim to the Iron Throne, marshaling his forces at the Wall. Meanwhile, Jon Snow grapples with the daunting task of defending the realm against the looming threat of the Others.
He forges uneasy alliances with the Wildlings to bolster their defenses. However, internal strife within the Night’s Watch threatens to undermine Jon’s efforts.
Across the Narrow Sea, Daenerys struggles to maintain order in the newly liberated city of Meereen. She navigates the complexities of governance and grapples with her dragons’ untamed power.
Other players emerge onto the stage, each driven by their own ambitions and desires. The fate of Westeros hangs in the balance as rival factions vie for supremacy and the struggle for power reaches a fever pitch.
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Companion Books for A Song of Ice and Fire
In addition to the main narrative and novels of the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, George R. R. Martin has contributed to several companion books that enrich the world of Westeros. These books offer diverse content, providing fans with deeper insights into the universe he has created.
Among these books are illustrated guides to Westeros, featuring stunning artwork from talented artists. These visuals bring Martin’s vivid descriptions to life, allowing readers to immerse themselves further into the rich tapestry of the Seven Kingdoms.
Furthermore, Martin collaborated with Elio García and Linda Antonsson, the creators of the Wiki of Ice and Fire, on comprehensive guides to the world of Westeros. These guides delve into Martin’s fictional realm’s history, geography, and cultures, offering readers a deeper understanding of its intricacies.
In addition to these guides, Martin has authored a series of cookbooks inspired by the gastronomic delights described in the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series. These cookbooks feature many mouthwatering recipes, allowing fans to recreate the flavors of Westeros in their own kitchens.
Overall, these companion books enrich the reading experience for fans of Martin’s epic fantasy series, offering additional layers of detail and immersion into the captivating world of Westeros.
The Lands of Ice and Fire: Maps from King’s Landing to Across the Narrow Sea
George R. R. Martin’s expansive universe in the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series is brought to life in a dazzling collection of maps illustrated by the talented cartographer Jonathan Roberts. These twelve full-color maps, housed in a sleek hardcover case, offer fans a deeper understanding of Martin’s epic saga and are perfect for framing.
The collection features a variety of landscapes, from bitter tundra to arid wastelands, capturing the scale and richness of Martin’s world. At the heart of the collection is a complete map of the known world, uniting the Seven Kingdoms with the lands across the Narrow Sea for the first time in series history. Additionally, alternate versions track the movements of the series’ protagonists, detailed maps of the world’s western, middle, and eastern thirds, and a complete map of Westeros combining the North and South.
Unique maps include depictions of the Dothraki Sea, the Red Wastes, and the city of Braavos, alongside fan-favorite locations like King’s Landing, The Wall, and the Free Cities. Each map provides a glimpse into Westeros’s vast and captivating world, enriching fans’ reading or viewing experience.
With detailed artwork and meticulous attention to detail, this collection comprehensively depicts Martin’s universe, showcasing familiar and exotic landscapes. Whether displayed on a wall or used as a reference while reading, these maps will surely delight fans and immerse them in the world of “A Song of Ice and Fire” like never before.
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The Wit and Wisdom of Tyrion Lannister
This book celebrates the wit and wisdom of Tyrion Lannister, one of George R.R. Martin’s most beloved characters from the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series and HBO’s “Game of Thrones.” Tyrion, known for his worldly cynicism and sharp tongue, is portrayed as a humorous, brilliant, and womanizing figure throughout the books.
Compiled as a perfect gift for fans of the series, this collection gathers Tyrion’s finest, funniest, rudest, and wisest quotes, showcasing his unique perspective on life. The book, illustrated by Jonty Clark, captures Tyrion’s essence as a miniature Machiavelli with a brain the size of a planet and a heart of (tarnished) gold.
From his reflections on the power of persuasion to his musings on fine dining, love, royal politics, and even common ailments, Tyrion’s words are both charming and insightful. He offers timeless advice seasoned with his trademark irreverence, reminding readers that a sharp mind is as potent a weapon as any sword or warhammer.
Despite being derided as “Halfman” by the masses of the Seven Kingdoms, Tyrion’s intellect has consistently saved him from hazardous situations. His essential knowledge is now preserved in this illustrated volume for future generations. Each quote encapsulates Tyrion’s sharp wit and clever observations, making this book a delightful addition to any fan’s collection.
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The World of Ice & Fire: The Untold History of Westeros and the Game of Thrones
“The World of Ice & Fire” is a comprehensive companion book co-authored by Martin, Elio M. García Jr., and Linda Antonsson. This volume offers readers a fully illustrated “history compendium” of Martin’s fictional world. It is presented from the perspective of an in-world Maester, complete with new material, family trees, detailed maps, and artwork.
García and Antonsson, known for their work on the A Song of Ice and Fire fansite Westeros.org, were enlisted by Martin in 2006 to contribute to the project. Martin incorporated historical references collected by García and Antonsson from the series.
Martin clarified that “The World of Ice & Fire” is more of a basic overview of his fictional world, akin to J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Silmarillion.” He hinted at plans for a more extensive volume focusing on the Targaryens. He jokingly referred to it as “The GRRMarillion,” which later evolved into “Fire & Blood.”
The book’s format intentionally mimics an actual history book, with sources that may contradict each other. Martin collaborated with artists to portray the characters and locales as he imagined.
These depictions were intended to be distinct from their portrayals in other media adaptations. The book features the work of 27 illustrators, including renowned fantasy artists like Marc Simonetti and Ted Nasmith.
An epic history of Westeros and the lands beyond, featuring hundreds of pages of material from George R. R. Martin!
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The Rise of the Dragon
The Rise of the Dragon is a captivating visual journey into the world of House Targaryen. Through over 180 stunning illustrations, readers are immersed in the Targaryens saga, the only dragonlord family to survive the fall of Valyria.
The Rise of the Dragon delves into the origins and ascension of House Targaryen’s dominance in Westeros, tracing their journey from Aegon Targaryen’s conquest to the tumultuous Dance of the Dragons’ civil war.
This deluxe reference book brings the Targaryens and their dragons to life with vibrant artwork, making it a treasure trove for fans familiar with Westeros lore and newcomers encountering the Targaryens for the first time in House of the Dragon. Whether you’re well-versed in the intricacies of Westeros or just beginning your exploration, The Rise of the Dragon offers an essential overview of the most influential family in the realm.
Written by George R. R. Martin, Elio M. García Jr., and Linda Antonsson, The Rise of the Dragon is a companion to Martin’s Fire & Blood. Released on October 25, 2022, it presents Targaryen history in an encyclopedic style akin to The World of Ice & Fire, providing a comprehensive look at the illustrious lineage of House Targaryen.
This lavish visual history—featuring over 180 all-new illustrations—is a stunning introduction to House Targaryen, the iconic family at the heart of HBO’s Game of Thrones prequel series, House of the Dragon.
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George R.R. Martin’s other literary works
Aside from “A Song of Ice and Fire,” George R.R. Martin has a rich bibliography spanning various genres and themes. Over his extensive career, he has authored numerous novels and stories showcasing his versatility. While “A Song of Ice and Fire” remains his opus, Martin’s other works have garnered significant acclaim and a dedicated readership.
Dying of the Light
“Dying of the Light,” George R.R. Martin’s debut novel, transports readers to the dying world of Worlorn, a planet hurtling toward its demise in the frigid abyss of space. Originally titled “After the Festival,” the book immerses readers in a sad yet captivating narrative that earned nominations for prestigious awards like the Hugo and British Fantasy Award.
Set within Martin’s expansive “Thousand Worlds” universe, the novel shares thematic threads with his other works, including “Sandkings,” “Nightflyers,” and “A Song for Lya.” Its title, borrowed from Dylan Thomas’ evocative poem, encapsulates the looming sense of mortality that permeates the story.
The narrative unfolds on Worlorn, a planet adorned with fourteen cities representing diverse cultures across the galaxy. These once-vibrant cities now languish in decay as Worlorn hurtles away from its life-sustaining suns. Against this backdrop of impending doom, the characters grapple with their own existential crises.
At the center of the tale is Dirk t’Larien, whose life loses meaning after his lover, Gwen Delvano, departs. Meanwhile, the Kavalar race, to which Gwen belongs, faces its own demise, torn between preserving tradition and adapting to changing times. Their struggle mirrors Worlorn’s predicament, symbolizing the tension between clinging to the past and embracing the uncertain future.
“Dying of the Light” masterfully blends science fiction elements with profound meditations on love, loss, and cultural identity. Through its richly drawn characters and haunting imagery, Martin crafts a poignant exploration of mortality and the human condition, leaving a lasting impression on readers long after the final page is turned.
In this unforgettable space opera, #1 New York Times bestselling author George R. R. Martin presents a chilling vision of eternal night—a volatile world where cultures clash, codes of honor do not exist, and the hunter and the hunted are often interchangeable.
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The Way of Cross and Dragon
“The Way of Cross and Dragon” by George R. R. Martin is a captivating science fiction short story that delves into themes of faith, heresy, and truth. Set in the expansive “Thousand Worlds” universe, it follows Damien Har Veris, a priest tasked with investigating a sect that venerates Judas Iscariot, the infamous betrayer of Christ.
The story garnered critical acclaim, winning both the Hugo Award for Best Short Story and the Locus Award for Best Short Story in 1980. It shares the same fictional universe as Martin’s other works, such as “Dying of the Light,” “Sandkings,” and “Nightflyers.”
At the heart of the narrative is Har Veris’s journey as he confronts the unorthodox beliefs of the Judas cult, led by Lukyan Judasson. The sect’s religious text, “The Way of Cross and Dragon,” presents a fantastical reinterpretation of Judas’s life.
As Har Veris delves deeper into the sect, he uncovers a conspiracy orchestrated by nihilistic Liars who manipulate the truth. Despite his own doubts, he remains committed to upholding truth and confronting heresies. He grapples with his diminishing faith.
Through political maneuvering and moral resolve, Har Veris confronts the Judas cult. Despite losing faith, he recognizes the necessity of his role as an inquisitor. This realization is underscored by his decision to name his new starship “Dragon.”
“The Way of Cross and Dragon” explores belief, deception, and the quest for truth. It showcases Martin’s skill in crafting compelling science fiction narratives.
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