The History of Westeros in Chronological Order

Westeros is more than just a setting — it’s a fully realized continent with thousands of years of recorded (and disputed) history. George R. R. Martin has fleshed out this world through main novels, companion guides, and prequel novellas that shed light on the dynasties, events, and legends that shaped the Seven Kingdoms.

To truly understand the Game of Thrones, it's helpful to explore the key historical sources:

Books That Uncover Westerosi History

• Fire & Blood – A detailed history of House Targaryen from Aegon the Conqueror to the Dance of the Dragons.
• The World of Ice & Fire – A rich encyclopedia of Westeros, Essos, and beyond.
• The Tales of Dunk and Egg – A prequel series set 90 years before the main saga, following a hedge knight and his mysterious squire.

Together with A Song of Ice and Fire, these books help paint the full political, cultural, and mythological landscape of Westeros.

If you want to experience Westeros as a living, breathing world, these are your must-reads.

Suggested Chronological Reading Order

The following books are arranged in the order of the events they depict — not by publication date.