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Nightflyers & Other Stories
George R. R. Martin

Nightflyers & Other Stories

Quick Answer

"Nightflyers & Other Stories" is an optional companion work. It can be read at any time, though it is usually best enjoyed after reading the first few core novels of the Short Story Collections & Novellas (Author Compiled).

Quick Verdict

🟡 Optional side story — not required for main plot

âť“ Can I skip this book?
✅ Yes — Optional

This is a side story that can be safely bypassed without losing any context for the main series.

Verdict Insight: This is a comprehensive collection and bundle of the George R. R. Martin's works. It typically offers significantly better value than buying the titles individually.

Is this helpful?
201869 ppOptional Side Story
On a voyage toward the boundaries of the known universe, nine misfit academics seek out first contact with a shadowy alien race. But another enigma is the Nightflyer itself, a cybernetic wonder with an elusive captain no one has ever seen in the flesh. Soon, however, the crew discovers that their greatest mystery -- and most dangerous threat -- is an unexpected force wielding a thirst for blood and terror. Also included are five additional classic George R. R. Martin tales of science fiction that explore the breadth of technology and the dark corners of the human mind.
Next Recommended Book

Thousand Worlds

Book #9 of 16 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

high 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 Short Story Collections & Novellas (Author Compiled) 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 Nightflyers & Other Stories?

This is a side story that can be safely bypassed without losing any context for the main series.

Can I read Nightflyers & Other Stories before Selections From Dreamsongs 3 : Selections From Wild Cards And More Stories From Martin's Later Years?

Yes. Nightflyers & Other Stories is an optional side story and can be read at any time without spoiling the main series plot.

Is Nightflyers & Other Stories required reading for the Short Story Collections & Novellas (Author Compiled)?

No, it is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not essential to the central storyline.

What comes after Nightflyers & Other Stories in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Nightflyers & Other Stories is Thousand Worlds (Book #9).