For fans of Sarah J. Maas’s epic fantasy series, the Throne of Glass journey is a long and emotional one. But as readers approach the sixth and seventh books, a unique question arises: should you do the tandem read?
This reading method has become a phenomenon within the community, and for good reason. It’s an unconventional approach that completely transforms the experience.
What is the Throne of Glass Tandem Read?
A New Way to Experience the Story
The tandem read involves reading two books, Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn, at the same time. Instead of finishing one and starting the next, readers alternate between them, chapter by chapter, following a specific guide.
This method might seem complicated, but it was born from a simple fact: both books cover the exact same period in the story’s timeline. They just follow different characters in different parts of the world.
Why Readers Started Doing It
The fan community developed this approach to solve a major narrative problem. After years of debate, a consensus formed that reading the two books concurrently creates a far more satisfying and cohesive story.
It essentially merges two separate novels into one giant, epic book. This allows the parallel storylines to unfold in chronological order, just as the author intended.
The Big Question: Why Tandem Read?
Avoiding the Infamous Cliffhanger
The biggest reason readers swear by the tandem read is the massive, world-altering cliffhanger at the end of Empire of Storms. It’s a moment that leaves you desperate for answers.
Reading the books separately means you have to put that on hold and dive into the 660-page Tower of Dawn, which focuses on a different set of characters. The tandem read avoids this frustration entirely.
A More Cohesive Storyline
By weaving the two narratives together, the tandem read provides a richer, more immersive experience. You get to see how events in one part of the world impact the other in real-time.
This method keeps the story’s momentum going strong. It balances the high-stakes adventure of Empire of Storms with the more character-focused journey in Tower of Dawn.
How to Conquer the Tandem Read: A Simple Guide
The Chapter-by-Chapter Breakdown
Numerous guides are available online, but the structure is simple. You’ll typically read a few chapters of Empire of Storms, then switch to a few chapters of Tower of Dawn.
For example, you might start with the first five chapters of Empire of Storms, then read the first chapter of Tower of Dawn, then return to Empire of Storms for the next few chapters, and so on.
Tips for Physical Books, E-readers, and Audiobooks
For physical books, many readers use tabs or sticky notes to mark where to switch. This saves you from constantly checking a guide.
E-readers make it even easier, as you can quickly jump between the two books. For audiobook listeners, setting bookmarks or using a home screen widget with the guide can help you keep your place.
Is the Tandem Read Worth the Hype?
A Resounding "Yes" from the Community
The overwhelming consensus is that the tandem read is absolutely worth it. Readers who have done it often say they can’t imagine experiencing the story any other way.
Many describe it as making more sense to their brain and preventing the emotional whiplash of finishing one book's climax only to start another from the beginning.
Our Verdict
After analyzing countless discussions and guides, the verdict is clear: the tandem read is the superior way to experience this part of the series. It may seem intimidating, but the payoff is huge.
It delivers a richer emotional journey and a deeper appreciation for the intricate world Sarah J. Maas has built.
Making Your Tandem Read a Success
Tabbing and Tracking
Preparation is key. Before you start, take a few minutes to tab your physical books or set up your digital checklist. This small step will make the process much smoother.
Having a clear guide in front of you removes any confusion and lets you focus on the story.
Pacing Yourself
Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. You’re tackling over 1,300 pages of dense fantasy, so don’t feel pressured to rush.
Read as much or as little as you feel comfortable with in each session. The goal is to enjoy the journey, not just get to the end.
The Final Word on the Throne of Glass Tandem Read
Embarking on the tandem read is a commitment, but it’s one that pays off in a big way. It transforms two great books into one unforgettable experience.
If you want to experience the story in the most cohesive, emotionally resonant way possible, the tandem read is the only way to go. You won’t regret it.
