How we compile reading orders
Every reading order on this site is put together by hand, from reading the series. Here is how, and where the judgment calls are.
Two orders, side by side
Most series can be read two ways: the order the books were published, and the order events happen in the story. We list both when they differ, because readers want different things from them. Publication order preserves the reveals the author timed on purpose. Chronological order can help on a reread. Neither one is "correct." We say which we would pick and why, then leave the choice to you.
Where the in-between books go
Novellas, prequels, and companion volumes are the hard part. A prequel published fourth might be best read first, or best saved for fourth, depending on what it gives away. We place each one with a one-line reason, not just a slot in a list.
When the order is disputed
Some series have no settled answer. Throne of Glass is the clearest example: there are several defensible routes and the fandom does not agree on one. Where that is true, we lay out the routes instead of pretending there is a single answer, and mark which we recommend for a first read versus a reread.
Spoilers
Reading orders are safe to read. Anything that could spoil you, like a plot summary or a character's fate, sits behind a gate you open on purpose. Nothing above a gate reveals more than the back cover of the book you are currently on.
Sources, and getting it wrong
Page counts, publication years, and ratings come from the editions we track, checked against the publishers. A book that is not out yet is marked as such and kept out of the "in order" list until it releases. If we have something wrong, tell us and we will fix it: hello@thereaderscodex.com.