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J.R.R. Tolkien's epic Lord of the Rings saga is a cornerstone of fantasy literature that has captivated audiences worldwide, spawning an acclaimed film trilogy and continuing to inspire new adaptations, including the eagerly awaited Season 2 of Rings of Power and a new Lord of the Rings movie set for 2026. As the world of Middle-earth expands, there's never been a better time to delve into its rich tapestry of stories, exploring the timeless themes of friendship, heroism, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

For those new to Tolkien's universe or looking to deepen their journey into Middle-earth, we've crafted this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the series, whether you prefer to read the books in chronological order or by their release date. So, settle in with your favorite reading light and embark on one of the greatest literary adventures of all time.

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

Tolkien's main Middle-earth saga comprises four books: The Hobbit and the three volumes of The Lord of the Rings—The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. Additionally, numerous companion works have been published posthumously, enhancing the lore of Middle-earth. We've selected the seven most significant of these for your reading journey.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

For fans eager to immerse themselves in Tolkien's world, various book sets offer an excellent way to start or expand your collection. Our top recommendation is the luxurious leather-bound illustrated editions, but there are plenty of styles to suit any preference.

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 sections: the main saga and additional reading. The core saga follows the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins and is listed in narrative chronology. The additional reading section includes works published after Tolkien's passing, arranged by their publication date. These summaries contain minimal spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.

1. The Hobbit

The Hobbit is the first Middle-earth book in both in-universe chronology and real-world publication, released in 1937. It follows Bilbo Baggins, who joins Thorin and Company—a group led by Thorin Oakenshield, along with Gandalf and thirteen dwarves—on a quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters Gollum and acquires the One Ring. The tale concludes with the epic Battle of Five Armies.

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 one continuous story, it was published in three volumes, each containing two books. The adventure starts with Bilbo's 111th birthday party, where he leaves the One Ring to Frodo. After a 17-year gap, Gandalf urges Frodo to leave the Shire with the Ring. Frodo, joined by Samwise Gamgee, Pippin Took, Merry Brandybuck, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, Boromir, and Gandalf, forms the Fellowship tasked with destroying the Ring in the fires of Mount Doom. By the end of the volume, Frodo sets off alone toward Mordor, accompanied only by the loyal Samwise.

3. The Two Towers

In The Two Towers, the second volume, the Fellowship splits into two groups: Frodo and Sam continue their journey toward Mordor, while the others face challenges from orcs and the corrupted wizard Saruman. Frodo and Sam encounter Gollum, who becomes a pivotal figure in their quest.

4. The Return of the King

The final volume, The Return of the King, sees the Fellowship's journey culminate in the battle against Sauron's forces. Frodo and Sam reach Mount Doom, while their companions fight to distract Sauron. After the Ring's destruction, the hobbits return to the Shire for one last confrontation, a scene not included in the film adaptation. The book concludes with the fates of the beloved characters and Frodo's departure from Middle-earth.

Additional LotR Reading

5. The Silmarillion

The Silmarillion

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The Silmarillion, published posthumously in 1977 and edited by Christopher Tolkien, is a collection of myths and legends that span from the creation of Arda to the Third Age, providing a deep dive into Middle-earth's history.

6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth

Unfinished Tales Of Númenor And Middle-Earth

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Unfinished Tales, edited by Christopher Tolkien and published in 1980, offers a collection of stories and histories, 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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The History of Middle-earth, a twelve-volume series published between 1983 and 1996, edited by Christopher Tolkien, provides detailed analyses of Tolkien's writings, excluding The Hobbit, which is covered in The History of The Hobbit by John D. Rateliff.

8. The Children of Húrin

The Children of Hurin

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The Children of Húrin, published in 2007, expands on the story of Túrin Turambar from The Silmarillion, set during the First Age, detailing the tragic consequences of Húrin's defiance against Morgoth.

9. Beren and Lúthien

Beren And Lúthien

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Beren and Lúthien, published in 2017, is a love story from the First Age, inspired by Tolkien's real-life romance with his wife Edith. It follows the journey of the mortal Beren and the immortal Elf Lúthien.

10. The Fall of Gondolin

The Fall Of Gondolin

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The Fall of Gondolin, the last Middle-earth novel edited by Christopher Tolkien, published in 2018, recounts the tale of Tuor and the divine quest to Gondolin, leading to Morgoth's downfall.

11. The Fall of Númenor

The Fall of Númenor

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The Fall of Númenor, published in 2022 and assembled by Brian Sibley, covers the Second Age of Middle-earth, detailing the rise and fall of Númenor, the forging of the Rings of Power, and the rise of Sauron.