Throne Of Glass Book Order

Okay, let's talk about the Throne of Glass series. Specifically, the book order. Prepare for some potentially controversial opinions.

The "Official" Order (and Why It's Maybe Wrong)

Everyone tells you to read it in publication order. You start with Throne of Glass, then Crown of Midnight, and so on. Seems simple, right?

Wrong. At least, that's what my slightly rebellious heart thinks.

The Assassin's Blade Conundrum

Here's where things get spicy. See, most people tell you to read The Assassin's Blade third. After Crown of Midnight. I disagree. Vehemently.

It’s like showing someone a flashback sequence after the main character has already faced down a monster. The emotional impact is lessened!

Imagine watching a movie about someone getting over a terrible breakup. Then, halfway through, you suddenly see the entire relationship unfold. Wouldn’t it make more sense to see the relationship first?

That's The Assassin's Blade. It's Celaena's origin story. It's her pain. It's why she is the way she is.

My "Wildly Unorthodox" Reading Order

So, here’s my suggestion. Brace yourselves.

Read The Assassin's Blade first. I know! Blasphemy! But hear me out.

Starting with The Assassin's Blade gives you the emotional foundation. You understand Celaena's motivations from the get-go. You're not just thrown into a tournament with a sassy assassin. You know her.

The Emotional Rollercoaster Advantage

Reading The Assassin's Blade first also heightens the emotional impact of the later books. Her past haunts her, but you've lived through it with her.

When things get tough, you aren't just reading about a character struggling. You're reading about a friend who's been through hell. And you're rooting for her even harder.

It also makes some of the seemingly random flashbacks and mentions in the first two books actually make sense. Less confusion, more connection.

Let's Get Specific

Here's my proposed order:

1. The Assassin's Blade 2. Throne of Glass 3. Crown of Midnight 4. Heir of Fire 5. Queen of Shadows 6. Empire of Storms 7. Tower of Dawn 8. Kingdom of Ash

The rest of the series? I think publication order works just fine after that. But that Assassin's Blade placement is crucial.

But What About Spoilers?!

I know, I know. Some argue that reading The Assassin's Blade first spoils some plot points from Throne of Glass. Honestly? Minimal spoilers.

The emotional payoff far outweighs any minor plot reveals. Plus, knowing Celaena's backstory actually enhances the suspense and intrigue of Throne of Glass.

Think of it like watching a prequel. You know where some of the characters end up, but it doesn't make the journey any less exciting.

The Chaol Dilemma (Tower of Dawn Debate)

Ah, Tower of Dawn. The book that seemingly everyone loves to hate (or at least tolerate).

There's a big debate about whether to read it before or after Empire of Storms. Some people recommend reading them simultaneously, swapping chapters back and forth.

Honestly? I think reading Empire of Storms then Tower of Dawn works perfectly fine. You get the cliffhanger from Empire of Storms and then a much-needed breather with Chaol's story before diving into the epic conclusion.

Plus, it gives you a chance to stock up on tissues before the emotional onslaught that is Kingdom of Ash. Trust me, you'll need them.

Ultimately, It's Your Choice!

Of course, this is just my opinion. And like they say, opinions are like… well, you know.

The "official" reading order exists for a reason. Sarah J. Maas intended for readers to experience the story in a certain way.

But if you're feeling adventurous, or if you've already read the series and want to try something different, give my "unorthodox" order a shot. You might just be surprised.

Happy reading, and may your Throne of Glass journey be filled with magic, adventure, and a healthy dose of emotional turmoil!

Just remember to read Kingdom of Ash last. That's non-negotiable. You have been warned.