
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 plot that twists and turns like a labyrinth, it’s no wonder that fans often find themselves asking, “What order should I read Throne of Glass in?” But beyond the simple question of reading order lies a deeper, more chaotic discussion about the nature of storytelling, the role of the reader, and the unpredictable dance between author and audience.
The Chronological Conundrum
At first glance, the question of reading order seems straightforward. The series consists of seven main books, starting with Throne of Glass and ending with Kingdom of Ash. However, the waters are muddied by the inclusion of prequel novellas, such as The Assassin’s Blade, which delves into the backstory of the protagonist, Celaena Sardothien. Should one read the prequels first, or dive straight into the main series? The answer, as with many things in life, is not so simple.
Reading The Assassin’s Blade first provides a richer understanding of Celaena’s character, her motivations, and the world she inhabits. It sets the stage for the emotional rollercoaster that is the main series. However, some argue that starting with Throne of Glass allows the reader to discover Celaena’s past organically, as the main series gradually reveals her history. This approach can create a sense of mystery and intrigue, as the reader pieces together the puzzle of Celaena’s life.
The Nonlinear Narrative: A Bold Experiment
Sarah J. Maas is no stranger to nonlinear storytelling. The Throne of Glass series is peppered with flashbacks, alternate perspectives, and time jumps that challenge the reader to keep up. This narrative style can be both exhilarating and frustrating. On one hand, it mirrors the chaotic nature of Celaena’s life, where the past is always present, and the future is uncertain. On the other hand, it can be disorienting, especially for readers who prefer a more straightforward narrative.
The question of reading order becomes even more complex when considering the novellas and short stories that are interspersed throughout the series. Some of these stories, like The Assassin and the Pirate Lord, are best read after certain events in the main series, while others, like The Assassin and the Desert, can be enjoyed at any time. This nonlinear approach to storytelling is a bold experiment, one that challenges the reader to engage with the text on a deeper level.
The Role of the Reader: Active Participant or Passive Observer?
In the Throne of Glass series, the reader is not a passive observer but an active participant in the storytelling process. The nonlinear narrative, the complex characters, and the intricate world-building all demand a high level of engagement from the reader. This is not a series that can be skimmed or read half-heartedly. It requires focus, attention, and a willingness to immerse oneself fully in the world of Erilea.
The question of reading order is, in many ways, a reflection of this active participation. There is no one “correct” way to read the series, just as there is no one “correct” way to experience life. Each reader brings their own perspective, their own biases, and their own expectations to the text. The reading order that works for one person may not work for another. This is the beauty of the Throne of Glass series—it is a living, breathing entity that evolves with each reader.
The Chaotic Symphony of Fantasy
The Throne of Glass series is often described as a symphony, with each book representing a different movement. The prequels are the overture, setting the stage for the main event. The main series is the crescendo, building to a climax that is both satisfying and heartbreaking. And the novellas and short stories are the interludes, providing moments of respite and reflection.
But this symphony is not a neatly organized piece of music. It is chaotic, unpredictable, and at times, discordant. It is a reflection of the world it portrays—a world where nothing is as it seems, and where the line between good and evil is constantly shifting. This chaos is not a flaw but a feature, a deliberate choice by the author to challenge the reader’s expectations and to keep them on their toes.
The Unpredictable Dance Between Author and Audience
At its core, the Throne of Glass series is a dance between author and audience. Sarah J. Maas leads, but the reader must follow, and sometimes, the reader must lead. The question of reading order is just one aspect of this dance. It is a negotiation, a collaboration, and a conversation. It is a reminder that storytelling is not a one-way street but a shared experience.
In the end, the question of what order to read Throne of Glass in is less about finding the “right” answer and more about embracing the journey. It is about allowing oneself to be swept up in the chaos, to lose oneself in the world of Erilea, and to emerge on the other side changed. It is about trusting the author, trusting the story, and most importantly, trusting oneself.
Related Q&A
Q: Should I read The Assassin’s Blade before or after the main series?
A: It depends on your preference. Reading it first provides backstory, but reading it after can add depth to the main series.
Q: Are the novellas essential to understanding the main series?
A: While not strictly necessary, they add richness and context to the story and characters.
Q: Can I skip the prequels and still enjoy the series?
A: Yes, but you may miss out on some of the emotional depth and character development.
Q: Is the Throne of Glass series suitable for young readers?
A: The series contains mature themes and violence, so it’s best suited for older teens and adults.
Q: How does the Throne of Glass series compare to Sarah J. Maas’s other works?
A: It shares similar themes of strong female protagonists and complex world-building but stands out for its darker tone and intricate plot.