Lori asked Michael J. Sullivan:

I have all 6 of the Riyria and Chronicles, and the Death of Dulgath, which order should I read them. From oldest to newest? Thank you so much! Lori

Michael J. Sullivan Hey Lori, thanks for getting all the books - I'm thrilled by your support.

It can be confusing. Let me do what I can to help you out. Originally I wrote the Riyria Revelations, six books that were re-released as three, 2-book omnibus editions. I wrote all six of those books before the first one was published, and I was really proud about how the series wrapped up and so I had no attention of writing anything more from that time period of the world of Elan and those characters.

Well, my wife became depressed because she has quite the crush on Hadrian, and more than a few readers lamented that they were lost now that the Riyria Revelations was over. I didn't want to "continue" the story as I thought that might feel like I was "tacking on" so I went the other way. You see, Royce and Hadrian (the two main characters of Riyria) had been together for 10 years at the start of the first book (The Crown Conspiracy which is the first book in Theft of Swords). I realized that people would probably like to see how the two met and travel with them on some of their early adventures. Hence The Riyria Chronicles were born.

Now, when writing that second series, I knew that some people would prefer "chronological order" while others would prefer to read in "the order of publication" so I worked hard to make it so people could get a good experience either way. So here's how it breaks down:

* Order of Publication - Theft of Swords | Rise of Empire | Heir of Novron | The Crown Tower | The Rose and the Thorn | The Death of Dulgath

* Chronological Order - The Crown Tower | The Rose and the Thorn | The Death of Dulgath | Theft of Swords | Rise of Empire | Heir of Novron

As I said, the books were designed to accommodate both types of reading preferences. Personally, I like order of publication for a few reasons.

* First, it's how I wanted people to meet my characters and the world. I should note, however, that I wrote in an unusual (and dangerous way). I didn't want to "front load" all the character background information and world building. I want to dole it out in small doses across the whole narrative so you would always have some new tidbit to learn about. The reason I say that was dangers, is because it means the first is "light" on characterization and world-building and some people have lamented the lack, and as they didn't know it was "coming" they concluded that I just wasn't capable of such. I can totally understand them coming to that conclusion. Anyway that's the first reason why I prefer order of publication.

* Second, Revelations is a better "deal." Orbit released those as three, 2-book omnibus editions so for the same price you get two full-length novels for the price of one.

* Third, I wanted to reward veteran readers so I put a few "Easter eggs" in for those who have read Revelations into Chronicles. These are nothing that would affect the plot. They are just little winks and nods to "those in the know" so that's kinda fun.

Now, all that said, I've heard from MANY people who read in chronological order and they insist THAT way was the best. I'm glad to hear this as it makes me know I hit my target that the series can be enjoyed either way.

So, my preference is Order of Publication, so start with Theft of Swords. If you REALLY prefer chronological, then you can definitely take that path and get a good experience. In that case, start with The Crown Tower.

Whew, that's a lot to cover, and I hope it wasn't more than you wanted to hear. I just wanted to be precise in answering your question.

flag