The Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas is a sprawling epic that has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. With its intricate plotlines, complex characters, and richly imagined world, it’s no wonder that fans often find themselves debating the best order in which to read the books. But what if the order doesn’t matter as much as we think? What if the true magic lies in the chaos of discovery?
The Chronological Conundrum
One of the most common debates among fans is whether to read the series in publication order or chronological order. The publication order starts with Throne of Glass and follows the sequence in which the books were released. On the other hand, the chronological order begins with The Assassin’s Blade, a collection of prequel novellas that delve into the backstory of Celaena Sardothien, the series’ protagonist.
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)
Chronological Order:
- 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)
The Case for Publication Order
Reading the series in publication order allows readers to experience the story as it was originally intended. The mysteries surrounding Celaena’s past are gradually unveiled, creating a sense of suspense and intrigue. This order also mirrors the journey of the author, Sarah J. Maas, as she developed the world and characters over time.
Pros:
- Suspense and Mystery: The gradual reveal of Celaena’s backstory keeps readers hooked.
- Author’s Intent: Experience the story as the author originally envisioned it.
- Character Development: Witness the growth of characters in the order they were introduced.
The Case for Chronological Order
On the other hand, starting with The Assassin’s Blade provides a deeper understanding of Celaena’s motivations and the events that shaped her into the person she becomes. This order can enhance the emotional impact of the later books, as readers have a fuller picture of the protagonist’s journey.
Pros:
- Emotional Depth: Understanding Celaena’s past can make her actions in the main series more poignant.
- World-Building: The prequel novellas offer a richer understanding of the world and its history.
- Character Connection: Readers may feel a stronger connection to Celaena from the outset.
The Hybrid Approach
Some fans advocate for a hybrid approach, where The Assassin’s Blade is read after Heir of Fire. This allows readers to first become invested in Celaena’s story before delving into her past. This method can provide a balance between suspense and emotional depth.
Pros:
- Balanced Experience: Combines the suspense of the publication order with the emotional depth of the chronological order.
- Enhanced Investment: Readers are already invested in Celaena’s journey before exploring her backstory.
- Flexible Timeline: Allows for a more nuanced understanding of the series’ timeline.
The Chaos of Discovery
Ultimately, the best order to read the Throne of Glass series may be the one that feels right to you. The beauty of literature lies in its ability to be interpreted and experienced in countless ways. Whether you choose to follow the publication order, the chronological order, or a hybrid approach, the journey through Erilea will be a memorable one.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I skip The Assassin’s Blade and still understand the main series? A: While The Assassin’s Blade provides valuable backstory, the main series can still be enjoyed without it. However, reading the prequel novellas will enhance your understanding of Celaena’s character and the world she inhabits.
Q: Is Tower of Dawn necessary to read, or can I skip it? A: Tower of Dawn is an essential part of the series, as it provides crucial developments for several key characters and plotlines. Skipping it may leave you with gaps in your understanding of the overall story.
Q: How long does it take to read the entire Throne of Glass series? A: The time it takes to read the series varies depending on your reading speed and how much time you dedicate to reading each day. On average, it may take several weeks to a few months to complete the entire series.
Q: Are there any spin-offs or related books to the Throne of Glass series? A: As of now, there are no official spin-offs, but Sarah J. Maas has written other series, such as A Court of Thorns and Roses, which shares a similar fantasy style and may appeal to fans of Throne of Glass.
In the end, the order in which you read the Throne of Glass series is a personal choice. Whether you follow the publication order, the chronological order, or a hybrid approach, the journey through Erilea will be a rich and rewarding experience. So, grab a book, settle in, and let the magic of Sarah J. Maas’s world sweep you away.
