Read Red Queen Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on March 15, 2026

Note: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases when you click on the link, but you are not charged extra.

The Red Queen series, a popular young adult fantasy saga by Victoria Aveyard, has captured the imaginations of readers worldwide. A unique blend of high-stakes politics, gripping action, and intricate character dynamics, the series immerses readers in a world where power is defined by the color of one’s blood. The Red Queen universe is not just a place for thrilling battles and fierce competitions but also a stage for exploring deep themes of class struggle, loyalty, and betrayal. If you’ve heard about this series and are wondering whether it’s worth diving into, or perhaps you’re unsure about the best reading order, this article will guide you through every step.

List Of Red Queen Books In Order

More On Red Queen Books In Chronological Order

1. Red Queen (2015)

Okay, so the *Red Queen* is where everything kicks off! We meet Mare Barrow, a seemingly ordinary girl with red blood, in a world where society is divided by blood color-Silvers with their superpowers, and Reds without. But surprise, Mare finds out she has powers too, and it’s a huge game changer! The book is packed with political intrigue, family drama, and a love triangle (which, of course, makes everything even more complicated). The best part? The twists and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s the perfect start to an epic saga!

2. Glass Sword (2016)

After the bombshell ending of *Red Queen*, Mare is now on the run, trying to gather other ’newbloods’-those with powers like hers. The stakes are higher than ever as she navigates the dangerous world of rebellion. But Mare’s journey is anything but easy. As she learns more about her own powers and starts trusting others less, *Glass Sword* becomes a wild ride of betrayals, unexpected alliances, and moments where you’re like, ’Oh no, did that just happen?!’ It’s a non-stop thriller that dives deeper into Mare’s struggle with being both a weapon and a leader.

3. King’s Cage (2017)

Oh, things get even darker in *King’s Cage*. After being captured by the enemy (hello, Cal), Mare finds herself trapped in a cage, both literally and figuratively. But it’s not just about being locked up-it’s about how her mind and heart are tested, with the looming question: can she trust anyone anymore? *King’s Cage* brings a lot of emotional weight to the story, as Mare’s inner turmoil and the brewing war create some major tensions. It’s a turning point for the characters, and things are really starting to heat up.

4. War Storm (2018)

And then we reach *War Storm*, which is the grand finale of the series. The stakes are at their peak because everything is coming to a head. It’s a battle for power, and Mare, along with Cal, Maven, and the rest of the gang, is in the thick of it. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and each decision feels like it could change the entire course of the world. This book wraps up all the political machinations, battles, betrayals, and relationships in a way that will have you both heartbroken and satisfied. It’s a truly epic conclusion, filled with jaw-dropping moments!

5. Broken Throne (2019)

While *Broken Throne* isn’t technically a novel, it’s a collection of novellas, short stories, and bonus content that fills in some gaps between the main books. Think of it as an extended look into the world of *Red Queen*, and if you loved the main series, you’re gonna want this extra material. It’s got more backstory, some character perspectives that weren’t explored in the main books, and the final piece of the puzzle. It’s like getting an extra dessert after a satisfying meal-more insight into the characters you love (or love to hate)!

Background On Red Queen Books

At its core, the Red Queen series is set in a dystopian world divided by blood color. The Silver-blooded elite, blessed with extraordinary powers, rule over the Red-blooded commoners. The protagonist, Mare Barrow, a Red, finds herself thrust into the heart of this inequitable system when she discovers she possesses a power that should be impossible for someone of her blood to have.

The series consists of four main novels:

1. Red Queen (2015)
2. Glass Sword (2016)
3. King’s Cage (2017)
4. War Storm (2018)

Alongside these, there are several novellas and short stories that expand on the world, providing deeper insights into secondary characters and events that help flesh out the larger narrative.

The first book, Red Queen, introduces readers to Mare’s struggles in a world where her Red blood marks her as inferior, yet she possesses powers comparable to the Silver elites. The novel quickly establishes the central conflict: the rise of a rebellion against the oppressive Silver regime. Throughout the books, the action intensifies, secrets unravel, and Mare must navigate a complex web of alliances, betrayals, and personal growth.

The Red Queen series has been praised for its world-building, engaging plot, and strong, multifaceted characters. It delves into themes of social injustice, identity, and the consequences of absolute power.

Reading Order Explained

When it comes to reading the Red Queen series, the order in which you read the books is fairly straightforward, but the world itself can be somewhat complex. Let’s break down the sequence:

1. Red Queen (2015)

   This is the introduction to the world of Silvers and Reds, Mare’s journey from a common thief to a symbol of resistance. In this book, the premise of the series is established, and readers get a glimpse into the major conflicts that will shape the saga. It introduces key characters like Maven, Cal, and the enigmatic Queen Coriane, and sets the tone for the entire series.

2. Glass Sword (2016)

   The second book picks up right after the events of Red Queen. Mare, now a fugitive, continues her quest to find and recruit others like her-those with powers who, like her, are a threat to the Silver elite. The book dives deeper into Mare’s internal struggles, her sense of responsibility, and the consequences of her actions. It’s a fast-paced continuation that intensifies the stakes.

3. King’s Cage (2017)

   In the third book, Mare finds herself captive in the Silver palace, forced to deal with the consequences of her rebellion. As she faces the manipulations of those in power, she must decide whether to continue her fight or surrender. The emotional depth and development in this book are significant, and it introduces even more complex political intrigue.

4. War Storm (2018)

   The final book in the series concludes Mare’s journey. As war looms, alliances shift, and long-held secrets are revealed. The stakes are higher than ever, and Mare must make life-altering choices as she attempts to bring peace to a divided world. War Storm wraps up the series with an action-packed, emotionally charged conclusion.

5. Novellas

   In addition to the main books, there are several novellas, including Queen Song, Steel Scars, Storm Wing, and Broken Throne. These short stories are best read after Red Queen or even between the main novels. They provide additional context, fleshing out the backgrounds of supporting characters and explaining events from different perspectives. They also help the reader gain a better understanding of the political landscape in the world of Red Queen.

For a more complete reading experience, it’s a good idea to incorporate these novellas, as they enhance the emotional weight of the main series.

What I Like About The Series?

There are several elements of the Red Queen series that make it stand out among other young adult fantasy novels. Here are a few reasons why it resonates so strongly with readers:

1. Intricate World-Building

   The world of Red Queen is carefully crafted, filled with layers of social, political, and magical complexities. The stark contrast between the Silvers and Reds is not only the foundation of the plot but also an effective metaphor for class struggle, privilege, and oppression. The different types of magic, based on blood color, also contribute to a world that feels unique and rich with possibility.

2. Strong, Complex Characters

   Mare Barrow, the heroine of the story, is not a typical protagonist. She is flawed, uncertain, and at times, deeply conflicted. Her struggles with her own identity, her relationship with power, and her desire for justice make her a character readers can relate to. Additionally, the secondary characters, particularly Maven and Cal, are multi-dimensional and undergo significant development, creating emotional tension and suspense throughout the series.

3. Themes Of Power And Rebellion

   The Red Queen series does an exceptional job of exploring the corrupting influence of power and the cost of rebellion. It’s a thought-provoking examination of the ways in which those in power manipulate the masses and the moral compromises that come with fighting for justice. The narrative is filled with plot twists that force the reader to confront uncomfortable questions about loyalty, sacrifice, and what it means to fight for the greater good.

4. Fast-Paced, Engaging Plot

   From the very first book, the Red Queen series hooks readers with its thrilling pace. The books are full of action, suspense, and unexpected twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. At the same time, the series doesn’t shy away from quiet, reflective moments that deepen the emotional resonance of the plot.

5. Romantic Tension

   Like many YA fantasy series, the Red Queen books feature a central love triangle that adds emotional complexity to the story. The romantic tension between Mare, Cal, and Maven is not just about who she’ll end up with, but also reflects the larger themes of power and betrayal in the series.

Should You Read Red Queen Books In Order?

Yes, you absolutely should read the Red Queen books in order. The series is designed to build upon itself, with each book deepening the character arcs and advancing the overarching plot. Reading them out of sequence would likely confuse the progression of the story, especially in terms of character development and the political intrigue that unfolds across the series.

The novels also contain numerous plot twists and revelations that are better appreciated when you’ve followed the story’s development chronologically. Additionally, the novellas interweave important backstory that complements the main books, helping to fill in crucial gaps that may not be fully explained in the novels themselves.