What Order Does Sarah J. Maas Say to Read Throne of Glass? And Why Does It Feel Like Solving a Labyrinth?

Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass series is a sprawling epic that has captivated readers worldwide. With its intricate world-building, complex characters, and interwoven storylines, it’s no wonder fans often find themselves asking: What order does Sarah J. Maas say to read Throne of Glass? The answer, much like the series itself, is layered and requires a bit of navigation. But fear not—this guide will break it down for you, while also exploring why the reading order feels like solving a labyrinth.

The Official Reading Order: A Chronological vs. Publication Debate

The Throne of Glass series consists of seven main books, a prequel collection of novellas (The Assassin’s Blade), and additional short stories. The debate over the “correct” reading order often boils down to two approaches: chronological order and publication order.

1. Publication Order
   This is the order in which the books were released, and it’s the way most readers initially experienced the series. Here’s the sequence:

   • Throne of Glass (2012)
   • Crown of Midnight (2013)
   • Heir of Fire (2014)
   • The Assassin’s Blade (2014)
   • Queen of Shadows (2015)
   • Empire of Storms (2016)
   • Tower of Dawn (2017)
   • Kingdom of Ash (2018)

   Reading in publication order allows you to experience the series as it unfolded for early fans. However, some argue that The Assassin’s Blade should be read earlier to provide crucial backstory.

2. Chronological Order
   This approach places The Assassin’s Blade at the beginning, as it contains events that predate the main series. The order would be:

   • The Assassin’s Blade
   • Throne of Glass
   • Crown of Midnight
   • Heir of Fire
   • Queen of Shadows
   • Empire of Storms
   • Tower of Dawn
   • Kingdom of Ash

   Chronological order offers a deeper understanding of Celaena Sardothien’s past and motivations, but it may also spoil some surprises.

Why the Reading Order Feels Like a Labyrinth

The Throne of Glass series is not a straightforward narrative. It’s a tapestry of interconnected stories, shifting perspectives, and timelines that span continents and characters. Here’s why the reading order feels so labyrinthine:

1. Multiple Timelines
   The series jumps between past and present, with The Assassin’s Blade serving as a prequel. This creates a narrative structure that’s both rewarding and challenging to navigate.

2. Expanding Perspectives
   As the series progresses, the focus shifts from Celaena to a broader ensemble cast. This expansion adds depth but also complexity, as readers must keep track of multiple storylines.

3. Parallel Plots in Tower of Dawn
   Tower of Dawn runs parallel to Empire of Storms, focusing on Chaol’s journey. This unique structure has led to debates about whether to read the books in tandem or separately.

4. Emotional Payoffs
   The series is packed with emotional twists and turns. The order in which you read the books can significantly impact how these moments resonate.

The Case for Hybrid Reading Orders

Some fans advocate for a hybrid approach, blending elements of both chronological and publication orders. For example:

• Start with Throne of Glass to immerse yourself in the world.
• Read The Assassin’s Blade after Crown of Midnight to deepen your understanding of Celaena’s past.
• Tackle Tower of Dawn and Empire of Storms simultaneously to experience the parallel plots.

This method offers a balance between narrative flow and emotional impact.

Sarah J. Maas’s Perspective

While Sarah J. Maas hasn’t explicitly dictated a reading order, she has acknowledged the flexibility of the series. In interviews, she’s emphasized that readers should choose the order that feels right for them. After all, the beauty of Throne of Glass lies in its ability to be experienced in multiple ways.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Labyrinth

The Throne of Glass series is a journey, and like any great adventure, it’s filled with twists, turns, and discoveries. Whether you follow the publication order, chronological order, or a hybrid approach, the key is to immerse yourself in the world Sarah J. Maas has created. After all, isn’t solving the labyrinth part of the fun?

Related Q&A

Q: Can I skip The Assassin’s Blade?
A: While it’s not mandatory, The Assassin’s Blade provides valuable context for Celaena’s character and backstory. Skipping it might diminish your understanding of her journey.

Q: Should I read Tower of Dawn and Empire of Storms together?
A: It’s not necessary, but some fans enjoy the experience of reading them in tandem to follow the parallel timelines.

Q: Is Kingdom of Ash the final book?
A: Yes, Kingdom of Ash concludes the main series, wrapping up the epic saga.

Q: Are there any spin-offs or related works?
A: While there are no direct spin-offs, Sarah J. Maas’s Crescent City series shares thematic and world-building elements with Throne of Glass.