J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga is a cornerstone of fantasy literature, renowned for its epic storytelling and profound themes of friendship and heroism. With the excitement building around Season 2 of Rings of Power and the announcement of a new Lord of the Rings movie set for 2026, there's never been a better time to delve into the expansive world of Middle-earth.
If you're new to Tolkien's universe, or if you're looking to expand your collection, we've crafted this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the books in both chronological and release order. So, prepare for a journey like no other as you explore one of the greatest adventures in literature.
How Many The Lord of the Rings Books Are There in the Series?
Tolkien's primary Middle-earth saga consists of four books: The Hobbit and the trilogy of The Lord of the Rings—The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. Additionally, since Tolkien's passing in 1973, numerous companion volumes have been released. We've curated a list of the seven most significant of these works.
Lord of the Rings Book Sets
For both newcomers and avid collectors, there are several exquisite book sets to enhance your library. Our top recommendation is the luxurious leather-bound illustrated editions, though a variety of styles cater to different preferences.
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 works into two sections: the main Lord of the Rings saga, which follows the narratives of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins and is ordered chronologically; and additional reading, which includes works published posthumously and is ordered by their release date. For new readers, we've kept plot spoilers to a minimum, focusing on key points and character introductions.
1. The Hobbit
Tolkien's initial foray into Middle-earth, The Hobbit, sets the stage for the entire saga. Published in 1937, it introduces us to Bilbo Baggins, who embarks on a quest with Thorin and Company to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters Gollum and gains possession of the One Ring, leading to the climactic Battle of Five Armies.
2. The Fellowship of the Ring
Published nearly two decades later in 1954, The Fellowship of the Ring begins with Bilbo's 111th birthday celebration, where he passes the One Ring to Frodo. The narrative unfolds over 17 years, culminating in Frodo's departure from the Shire, guided by Gandalf. Frodo assembles a fellowship of diverse companions—Samwise, Pippin, Merry, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, Boromir, and Gandalf—to destroy the Ring in the fires of Mount Doom. By the end, Frodo's resolve is tested, and he sets off with the loyal Samwise.
3. The Two Towers
In The Two Towers, the fellowship splits, with Frodo and Sam journeying towards Mordor, while the others confront Saruman and his forces. This volume delves deeper into the struggles and alliances formed in the fight against evil.
4. The Return of the King
The saga concludes with The Return of the King, where the battle against Sauron's forces reaches its peak. Frodo and Sam's quest reaches its climax, and the hobbits face one final challenge upon returning to the Shire. The book 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 collection of myths and legends that span the history of Arda, the world encompassing Middle-earth. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, it provides a rich backdrop to the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.
6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth
Unfinished Tales Of Númenor And Middle-Earth
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Unfinished Tales, also edited by Christopher Tolkien, offers a collection of stories and histories that flesh out the lore of Middle-earth, including the origins of the wizards, the alliance between Gondor and Rohan, and Sauron's quest for the One Ring.
7. The History of Middle-earth
The Complete History of Middle-Earth
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This twelve-volume series, published between 1983 and 1996, provides a comprehensive look at the development of Tolkien's works, edited by Christopher Tolkien. It excludes analyses of The Hobbit, which are covered in The History of The Hobbit.
8. The Children of Húrin
The Children of Hurin
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The Children of Húrin expands on the tragic tale of Húrin and his children, set during the First Age, exploring themes of defiance and its consequences against Morgoth.
9. Beren and Lúthien
Beren And Lúthien
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Inspired by Tolkien's real-life romance, Beren and Lúthien is a tale of love and adventure set in the First Age, compiled into a cohesive narrative by Christopher Tolkien.
10. The Fall of Gondolin
The Fall Of Gondolin
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The Fall of Gondolin details the divine mission of Tuor and the eventual downfall of the city, connecting to The Lord of the Rings through Tuor's son, Eärendil, who plays a crucial role in the saga.
11. The Fall of Númenor
The Fall of Númenor
5$40.00 save 46%$21.54 at Amazon
Published in 2022, The Fall of Númenor compiles stories from various sources into a single volume, edited by Brian Sibley. It covers significant events of the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor and the forging of the Rings of Power.
How to Read The Lord of the Rings By Release Date
- The Hobbit (1937)
- The Fellowship of the Ring (1954)
- The Two Towers (1954)
- The Return of the King (1955)
- The Silmarillion (1977)
- Unfinished Tales (1980)
- The History of Middle-earth (1983–1996)
- The Children of Húrin (2007)
- Beren and Lúthien (2017)
- The Fall of Gondolin (2018)
- The Fall of Númenor (2022)
Part of the main four-book Lord of the Rings saga
For Further Browsing:
New Fantasy and Sci-Fi Books
Best Books Like Lord of the Rings
How to Watch The Lord of the Rings Movies in Order
Every Lord of the Rings Blu-ray Set
