If you're staring down the second half of Sarah J. Maas's epic fantasy series, you've likely hit the ultimate fandom fork in the road: how to handle Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn. Reading them simultaneously isn't a strict requirement, but it solves a massive structural problem. Because both books happen concurrently on different continents, switching back and forth keeps the timeline aligned and prevents major emotional whiplash before the finale, Kingdom of Ash.
This guide breaks down why the dual-book approach works, how to manage the page-turning logistics without getting overwhelmed, and what you need to track to maximize comprehension.
Why Do the Tandem Read?
Chronologically, Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn take place at the exact same time. Author Sarah J. Maas split them because Tower of Dawn focuses entirely on Chaol Westfall and Yrene Towers traveling to the Southern Continent, while Empire of Storms follows Aelin Galathynius gathering her allies in Erilea.
If you read Empire of Storms first, you hit a devastating cliffhanger that makes pivoting to a brand-new setting with entirely different characters feel like hitting a brick wall. Reading them together keeps the pacing balanced, lets you watch plot threads unfold simultaneously, and prevents spoilers from creeping in if you accidentally look up character fates online. For more background on the publishing history of these massive fantasy worlds, you can check out Publisher Weekly.
Essential Preparation and Logistics
Juggling two 600-plus-page hardbacks or managing two separate e-reader files requires a bit of setup. Don't try to wing it by alternating every few chapters blindly; you'll ruin the narrative tension.
- Keep two bookmarks handy: You'll be jumping between books multiple times per reading session.
- Use a physical checklist: Print out a chapter tracker or keep a digital list on your phone so you don't lose your place.
- Accept the physical awkwardness: If you're reading physical copies, carrying two heavy books around is a workout. E-readers make the transition seamless.
The Core Reading Sequence
The standard community-approved chapter breakdown ensures that major reveals hit in the correct emotional order. You'll start with Empire of Storms, switch over to Tower of Dawn early on, and weave them together until the final stretches.
- The Kickoff: Read Empire of Storms from the Nightfall prologue through Chapter 5. Then, jump over to Tower of Dawn and read Chapter 1.
- The Mid-Game Rhythm: Alternate blocks of chapters based on the standard community schedule. For instance, you might read Empire of Storms chapters 6 through 8, then switch to Tower of Dawn chapters 2 and 3.
- The Final Merge: As both books approach their respective climaxes, the blocks get longer. You will finish Empire of Storms while wrapping up the final chapters of Tower of Dawn (ending with its epilogue, Fireheart) right before you dive straight into Kingdom of Ash.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned fantasy readers stumble when tackling two massive novels at once. Avoid these common pitfalls to keep your reading experience smooth.
- Skipping Tower of Dawn: Some readers try to bypass it because it feels like a side quest. Don't. Characters and magical lore introduced in the Southern Continent are vital for the final book.
- Reading Tower of Dawn first: The epilogue of Tower of Dawn contains massive spoilers for the end of Empire of Storms. Keep the intended sequence intact.
- Getting bogged down by minor details: You don't need to memorize every single name or geographical outpost. Trust the author's pacing and let the overlapping political plots wash over you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do the tandem read on my first read-through?
Yes. In fact, many veteran readers recommend it for first-timers specifically to avoid the narrative drop-off between books. It makes the world feel massive and interconnected.
What happens if I accidentally read ahead in one book?
Don't panic. If you read an extra chapter or two ahead in Empire of Storms, just pause that book, catch up on the corresponding chapters in Tower of Dawn, and resume the alternating schedule.
Do I need to read The Assassin's Blade before this?
Ideally, yes. The Assassin's Blade collection of novellas provides emotional context for characters who reappear later. If you haven't read it yet, consider slotting it in earlier in the series rather than pausing here. To explore more about fantasy literature trends and author interviews, visit Tor.com.
Is the tandem read mandatory to understand Kingdom of Ash?
No. You can read them in publication order (Empire of Storms followed entirely by Tower of Dawn) and still understand the finale. The tandem choice is purely about maintaining momentum and timeline synchronization.
