The Recommended Reading Order
For the best experience, the Belgariad universe should be read in publication order. Starting with the prequels will spoil major plot points and mysteries in the main series, and these spin-off novels assume you are already familiar with the characters and lore.
Phase 1: The Belgariad Quintet
This is where the story begins. You follow Garion, a simple farm boy, as he is swept into an epic quest across kingdoms to retrieve the stolen Orb of Aldur and fulfill an ancient prophecy.
- Pawn of Prophecy (1982)
- Queen of Sorcery (1982)
- Magician's Gambit (1983)
- Castle of Wizardry (1984)
- Enchanters' End Game (1984)
Phase 2: The Malloreon Quintet
This direct sequel series takes place several years after the events of the original quintet. A new threat arises, forcing Garion and his companions to travel to the eastern continent of Mallorea.
- Guardians of the West (1987)
- King of the Murgos (1988)
- Demon Lord of Karanda (1988)
- Sorceress of Darshiva (1989)
- The Seeress of Kell (1991)
Phase 3: The Prequels & Companion Lore
Once you have finished both main series, you can safely dive into the background histories and companion texts that expand on the world's ancient mythology.
- Belgarath the Sorcerer (1995) – A prequel covering the life of the eternal sorcerer Belgarath, spanning thousands of years leading up to the main series.
- Polgara the Sorceress (1997) – A prequel detailing the history of the world and characters from the perspective of Polgara.
- The Rivan Codex (1998) – A compilation of background notes, world-building studies, and essays created by the authors during the development of the series.
Publication Order vs. Chronological Order
While the chronological order would put the prequels Belgarath the Sorcerer and Polgara the Sorceress first, reading them in this order is not recommended for newcomers. These prequels are written as retrospective narratives where the characters recount their long lives, referencing events and resolutions from the main ten books. Reading them first robs the original series of its tension and twists.