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Robert Jordan

A Crown of Swords

Quick Answer

Read "A Crown of Swords" as the 7th book in the The Wheel of Time sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "Lord Of Chaos" (Book 6)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: As the 7th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2010
The Wheel of Time is now an original series on Prime Video, starring Rosamund Pike as Moiraine! In A Crown of Swords, the seventh novel in Robert Jordan’s #1 New York Times bestselling epic fantasy series, The Wheel of Time®, a rebellious uprising threatens Rand al’Thor's rule as he prepares to battle an even more dangerous enemy. Incited by nobles seeking to reclaim their places of power, armies march against the Dragon Reborn. As Rand tries to restore order, he discovers a lack of loyalty even among the warrior Aiel, and still mistrusts the rebel Aes Sedai even though they swore allegiance. But nothing can stop Rand and his Asha'man soldiers from storming the city of Illian to confront the Forsaken Sammael, and challenge him to a duel of the One Power with the winner taking the Crown of Swords... Since its debut in 1990, The Wheel of Time® by Robert Jordan has captivated millions of readers around the globe with its scope, originality, and compelling characters. The last six books in series were all instant #1 New York Times bestsellers, and The Eye of the World was named one of America's best-loved novels by PBS's The Great American Read. The Wheel of Time® New Spring: The Novel #1 The Eye of the World #2 The Great Hunt #3 The Dragon Reborn #4 The Shadow Rising #5 The Fires of Heaven #6 Lord of Chaos #7 A Crown of Swords #8 The Path of Daggers #9 Winter's Heart #10 Crossroads of Twilight #11 Knife of Dreams By Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson #12 The Gathering Storm #13 Towers of Midnight #14 A Memory of Light By Robert Jordan and Teresa Patterson The World of Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time By Robert Jordan, Harriet McDougal, Alan Romanczuk, and Maria Simons The Wheel of Time Companion By Robert Jordan and Amy Romanczuk Patterns of the Wheel: Coloring Art Based on Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
Next Recommended Book

The Path Of Daggers

Book #8 of 13 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

Medium Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for The Wheel of Time conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading A Crown of Swords?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read A Crown of Swords before Lord Of Chaos?

No. We recommend reading Lord Of Chaos first. A Crown of Swords is the 7th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is A Crown of Swords required reading for the The Wheel of Time?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after A Crown of Swords in the reading order?

The next recommended book after A Crown of Swords is The Path Of Daggers (Book #8).