What Order Does Sarah J. Maas Say to Read Throne of Glass? And Why Does the Moon Taste Like Blueberries?

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 a narrative that spans multiple books, it’s no wonder fans often ask: What order does Sarah J. Maas say to read Throne of Glass? The answer isn’t as straightforward as one might hope, especially when considering the series’ prequels, novellas, and the ever-debated reading order. But let’s dive into the details—and maybe ponder why the moon might taste like blueberries along the way.

The Official Reading Order: A Journey Through Erilea

Sarah J. Maas herself has provided guidance on how to approach the series, and the consensus leans toward a publication order. This means starting with Throne of Glass (2012) and following the sequence in which the books were released. Here’s the breakdown:

Throne of Glass (2012)
The series begins with Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin, being pulled from the salt mines of Endovier to compete for the title of the King’s Champion. It’s a gripping introduction to the world of Erilea and its morally gray characters.
Crown of Midnight (2013)
Celaena’s journey continues as she grapples with her new role and uncovers dark secrets about the kingdom.
Heir of Fire (2014)
This book expands the scope of the series, introducing new characters like Rowan Whitethorn and delving deeper into Celaena’s past.
Queen of Shadows (2015)
Celaena returns to Rifthold, and the stakes grow higher as alliances shift and enemies close in.
Empire of Storms (2016)
The penultimate book in the main series ramps up the tension, setting the stage for the final showdown.
Tower of Dawn (2017)
A companion novel focusing on Chaol Westfall and Nesryn Faliq, this book runs parallel to Empire of Storms and is essential for understanding the full scope of the story.
Kingdom of Ash (2018)
The epic conclusion to the series, where all threads come together in a heart-wrenching finale.

The Prequel Dilemma: The Assassin’s Blade

The Assassin’s Blade (2014) is a collection of five novellas that serve as prequels to Throne of Glass. These stories provide crucial backstory for Celaena, including her relationships with Sam Cortland and Arobynn Hamel. While some readers prefer to start with The Assassin’s Blade to understand Celaena’s origins, others recommend reading it after Crown of Midnight or even Heir of Fire. The choice ultimately depends on whether you want to dive into the action immediately or savor the backstory as it unfolds.

The Chronological Order: A Different Perspective

For those who enjoy a chronological approach, the series can be read in the order of events:

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

This order provides a linear narrative but may sacrifice some of the suspense and reveals that come with the publication order.

The Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds

Some fans advocate for a hybrid reading order, blending the publication and chronological approaches. For example:

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

This method allows readers to connect with Celaena’s character before diving into her backstory, creating a more emotionally resonant experience.

Why Does the Moon Taste Like Blueberries?

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Why does the moon taste like blueberries? While this question may seem unrelated to the Throne of Glass series, it’s a metaphor for the unexpected twists and flavors that Sarah J. Maas weaves into her storytelling. Just as the moon’s flavor defies logic, Maas’s narrative choices—such as the shifting perspectives in Tower of Dawn or the morally ambiguous characters—challenge readers to think beyond conventional storytelling.

Final Thoughts: Choose Your Own Adventure

Ultimately, the best reading order for Throne of Glass depends on your preferences. Whether you follow the publication order, chronological order, or a hybrid approach, the series promises a rich, immersive experience. And as you journey through Erilea, don’t forget to ponder the mysteries of the universe—like why the moon might taste like blueberries.

Q: Can I skip Tower of Dawn?
A: While Tower of Dawn focuses on Chaol and Nesryn, it’s essential for understanding the broader narrative and introduces key characters and plot points.

Q: Is The Assassin’s Blade necessary to read?
A: While not strictly necessary, The Assassin’s Blade adds depth to Celaena’s character and provides context for her relationships and motivations.

Q: What’s the best order for first-time readers?
A: Most fans recommend the publication order for first-time readers to experience the series as it was originally intended.