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Guide to Reading The Lord of the Rings Series in Sequence

by Samuel Apr 25,2025

J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga is a cornerstone of fantasy literature, inspiring one of the greatest film trilogies ever made. The story, deeply rooted in themes of friendship and heroism, continues to captivate audiences. With the second season of "Rings of Power" on the horizon and a new Lord of the Rings movie slated for 2026, there's never been a better time to delve into the expansive lore of Middle-earth.

If you're new to Tolkien's universe or looking to revisit it, we've crafted a guide to help you navigate the series, whether you prefer reading in chronological order or by publication date. So, prepare for a journey through one of the most enchanting adventures in literary history.

How Many The Lord of the Rings Books Are There in the Series?

There are four books in Tolkien’s main Middle-earth saga: The Hobbit and the three volumes of The Lord of the Rings (Fellowship of the Ring, Two Towers, Return of the King).

Since Tolkien's passing in 1973, numerous additional works and companion books have been released. Below, we've highlighted the seven most significant ones to enhance your Middle-earth experience.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

Whether you're new to the series or expanding your collection, there are several compelling book sets available. Our top pick is the leather-bound illustrated editions, though various styles cater to different tastes.

The Lord of the Rings Deluxe Illustrated Edition

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The Hobbit And The Lord Of The Rings: Deluxe Pocket Boxed Set

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The Silmarillion Deluxe Illustrated Edition

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The Hobbit Deluxe Illustrated Edition

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The Lord of the Rings Books Reading Order

We've divided Tolkien's Middle-earth works into two categories: the core Lord of the Rings saga and additional readings. The saga follows the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, listed by their in-universe chronology. Additional readings, published posthumously, are organized by their release date.

These summaries provide broad plot points and character introductions, keeping spoilers to a minimum for newcomers.

1. The Hobbit

The Hobbit is the first book in Tolkien's Middle-earth saga, both by in-universe chronology and real-world publication. Released in 1937, it introduces us to Bilbo Baggins as he joins Thorin and Company—a group comprising Bilbo, Gandalf, and 13 dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield—on a quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. Along the journey, we meet Gollum and learn of Bilbo's acquisition of the One Ring. The adventure concludes with the Battle of Five Armies, famously depicted in the final Hobbit film.

2. The Fellowship of the Ring

Published nearly two decades after The Hobbit, The Fellowship of the Ring marks the beginning of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Originally conceived as a single narrative, it spans 9,250 pages and was published in three volumes between 1954 and 1955.

The story begins at Bilbo's 111th birthday celebration, where he passes the One Ring to his cousin Frodo. Unlike the film, the book features a 17-year gap before Frodo embarks on his quest to destroy the Ring, urged by Gandalf.

Frodo's journey leads to the formation of the Fellowship of the Ring, comprising Frodo, Samwise Gamgee, Pippin Took, Merry Brandybuck, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, Boromir, and Gandalf. Their mission is to destroy the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom. By the end of Fellowship, Frodo faces a betrayal and decides to continue to Mordor alone, accompanied only by the loyal Samwise.

3. The Two Towers

In The Two Towers, the second volume of The Lord of the Rings, the Fellowship splits into two groups: Frodo and Sam continue their trek towards Mordor, encountering Gollum along the way, while the rest of the Fellowship battles orcs and confronts the corrupted wizard Saruman.

4. The Return of the King

The final volume, The Return of the King, concludes the epic journey to Mordor. As our heroes face Sauron's dark forces, Frodo and Sam press forward with their mission. After the climactic events, the hobbits return to the Shire for a final confrontation absent from the film adaptation. The narrative wraps up with the resolution of each character's story, marking the end of Frodo's journey.

Additional LotR Reading

5. The Silmarillion

The Silmarillion

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The Silmarillion, published posthumously in 1977, is a five-part collection of myths and stories edited by Tolkien's son, Christopher. It chronicles the history of Arda, the world encompassing Middle-earth, from its creation through the Third Age.

6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth

Unfinished Tales Of Númenor And Middle-Earth

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Unfinished Tales, edited and published by Christopher Tolkien in 1980, is a collection of stories and histories. It delves into the origins of Middle-earth’s wizards, the alliance between Gondor and Rohan, Gandalf's role in The Hobbit, and Sauron's quest for the One Ring before The Lord of the Rings.

7. The History of Middle-earth

The Complete History of Middle-Earth

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The History of Middle-earth, a twelve-volume series released between 1983 and 1996, compiles and analyzes The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, and other writings. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, this series does not include analyses of The Hobbit, which are covered in The History of The Hobbit by John D. Rateliff, published in 2007.

8. The Children of Húrin

The Children of Hurin

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The Children of Húrin, set during the First Age, expands on the story of Túrin Turambar from The Silmarillion. It narrates the tragic tale of Húrin Thalion and his children, Túrin and Nienor, as they face the consequences of Húrin's defiance against Morgoth, the precursor to Sauron.

9. Beren and Lúthien

Beren And Lúthien

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Beren and Lúthien, inspired by Tolkien's romance with his wife Edith, is a love story set in the First Age. Compiled by Christopher Tolkien, it follows the adventures of the mortal man Beren and the immortal Elf Lúthien, whose names adorn the couple's gravestone.

10. The Fall of Gondolin

The Fall Of Gondolin

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The Fall of Gondolin recounts the tale of Tuor, sent to Gondolin on a divine quest, leading to Morgoth's defeat. It connects to The Lord of the Rings through Tuor's son Eärendil, the father of Elrond, who plays a pivotal role in The Fellowship of the Ring. This was the last Middle-earth novel edited by Christopher Tolkien.

11. The Fall of Númenor

The Fall of Númenor

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The Fall of Númenor, published in November 2022, is a compilation of stories from the Second Age, edited by Brian Sibley. It covers the rise and fall of Númenor, the forging of the Rings of Power, the rise of Sauron, the construction of Barad-dûr, and the Last Alliance of Elves and Men.