What Order Should I Read Throne of Glass: A Journey Through the Chaotic Symphony of Fantasy
The Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas is a sprawling epic that has captured the hearts of millions of readers worldwide. With its intricate world-building, complex characters, and a narrative that weaves through multiple timelines and perspectives, it’s no wonder that fans often find themselves asking, “What order should I read Throne of Glass?” The answer, much like the series itself, is not straightforward. It’s a labyrinth of choices, each leading to a slightly different experience. So, let’s dive into the chaotic symphony of this fantasy masterpiece and explore the various reading orders, their merits, and the philosophical implications of choosing one over the other.
The Chronological Order: A Linear Path Through Chaos
The most straightforward approach is to read the series in the order the books were published. This is the order in which Sarah J. Maas intended her readers to experience the story, and it allows for a natural progression of character development and plot twists. Here’s the publication order:
- Throne of Glass (2012)
- Crown of Midnight (2013)
- Heir of Fire (2014)
- Queen of Shadows (2015)
- Empire of Storms (2016)
- Tower of Dawn (2017)
- Kingdom of Ash (2018)
Pros:
- You experience the story as it was originally released, with all the suspense and surprises intact.
- The character arcs and world-building unfold in a way that feels organic and cohesive.
Cons:
- Some readers find Tower of Dawn (book 6) to be a detour from the main plot, as it focuses on Chaol’s journey in a different part of the world.
The “Romantic” Order: A Dance of Love and War
For those who are particularly invested in the romantic subplots, especially the love triangle between Celaena, Dorian, and Chaol, there’s an alternative reading order that emphasizes the emotional beats of the story. This order suggests reading Tower of Dawn concurrently with Empire of Storms, alternating chapters or sections between the two books.
Pros:
- This approach allows you to experience the parallel storylines of Chaol and the main group simultaneously, creating a more immersive and emotionally charged reading experience.
- It highlights the interconnectedness of the characters’ journeys, even when they are physically apart.
Cons:
- It requires a bit of juggling and can be confusing if you’re not used to reading multiple books at once.
- Some readers feel that this order disrupts the pacing of Empire of Storms, which is already a high-stakes, action-packed book.
The Prequel-First Order: Starting with the Assassin’s Blade
Some fans argue that the best way to dive into the Throne of Glass series is to start with The Assassin’s Blade, a collection of prequel novellas that delve into Celaena’s past. This order provides crucial backstory and context for the main series, making the emotional stakes even higher.
- The Assassin’s Blade (2014)
- Throne of Glass (2012)
- Crown of Midnight (2013)
- Heir of Fire (2014)
- Queen of Shadows (2015)
- Empire of Storms (2016)
- Tower of Dawn (2017)
- Kingdom of Ash (2018)
Pros:
- You get to know Celaena’s history, motivations, and relationships before diving into the main series, which can deepen your connection to her character.
- The prequel novellas are packed with action, intrigue, and heartbreak, making them a compelling entry point.
Cons:
- Some readers prefer to discover Celaena’s past gradually, as it is revealed in the main series. Starting with The Assassin’s Blade can feel like spoiling some of the mystery.
The “Chaotic Neutral” Order: A Wild Ride Through Time and Space
For the truly adventurous, there’s the “Chaotic Neutral” order, which involves reading the series in a completely random sequence. This approach is not for the faint of heart, but it can lead to a unique and unpredictable reading experience.
Pros:
- You’ll never know what’s coming next, which can make the story feel fresh and exciting.
- This order challenges you to piece together the narrative on your own, creating a sense of accomplishment when everything finally clicks into place.
Cons:
- It’s incredibly confusing and can detract from the emotional impact of key moments.
- You risk missing important plot points and character development.
The Philosophical Implications of Choosing an Order
The question of “What order should I read Throne of Glass?” is more than just a logistical one—it’s a philosophical one. It forces us to consider how we engage with stories and what we value most in our reading experiences. Do we prioritize the author’s intended structure, or do we seek a more personalized journey? Do we crave the emotional depth that comes with understanding a character’s past, or do we prefer the thrill of discovery? Ultimately, the order you choose reflects your own narrative preferences and how you want to experience the world of Throne of Glass.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I skip Tower of Dawn if I’m not interested in Chaol’s story?
A: While Tower of Dawn focuses on Chaol, it also introduces important characters and plot points that are crucial to the final book, Kingdom of Ash. Skipping it might leave you confused about certain developments.
Q: Is The Assassin’s Blade necessary to understand the main series?
A: Not strictly necessary, but it provides valuable context and emotional depth that can enhance your reading experience.
Q: What’s the best order for a first-time reader?
A: Most fans recommend starting with Throne of Glass and following the publication order. However, if you’re a fan of prequels, starting with The Assassin’s Blade can also be rewarding.
Q: Can I read Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn at the same time?
A: Yes, some readers enjoy this approach as it allows them to experience the parallel storylines simultaneously. Just be prepared for a bit of juggling!
Q: What if I want to read the series in reverse order?
A: While technically possible, reading the series in reverse order would likely be confusing and diminish the impact of key moments. It’s not recommended for first-time readers.