Michael J Sullivan Books in Order and Beginners Guide
Sometimes the price of dreams is achieving them.
― Michael J. Sullivan, Percepliquis
Riyria Revelations
1. Theft of Swords (2011): The Crown Conspiracy (2008) & Avempartha (2009)
2. Rise of Empire (2011): Nyphron Rising (2009) & The Emerald Storm (2010)
3. Heir of Novron (2012: Wintertide (2010) & Percepliquis (2011)
Riyria Chronicles
1. The Crown Tower (2013)
1.5. The Viscount and the Witch (2011)
2. The Rose and the Thorn (2013)
2.5. The Jester (2014)
2.6. Professional Integrity (2015)
3. The Death of Dulgath (2015)
4. The Disappearance of Winter’s Daughter (2017)
Legends of the First Empire
1. Age of Myth (2016)
2. Age of Swords (2017)
3. Age of War (2018)
4. Age of Legend (2019)
5. Age of Death (2019)
6. Age of Empyre (2020)
Rise and Fall
1. Nolyn (2021)
2. Farilane (2022)
3. Esrahaddon (expected 2023)
Who is Michael J Sullivan?
Michael J. Sullivan is an American author known for his works in the fantasy genre. He was born in Detroit, Michigan, and currently resides in Fairfax, Virginia.
Sullivan initially self-published his books, gaining massive popularity and ultimately signing many traditional publishing deals. He and his wife and business manager, Robin, are very forthcoming with their publishing experiences and many interviews can be found online.
His most notable series is “The Riyria Revelations,” which follows the adventures of two main characters, Royce Melborn and Hadrian Blackwater, as they become entangled in a complex web of politics, magic, and intrigue. The series garnered a significant following and received critical acclaim for its engaging storytelling and well-developed characters.
In addition to “The Riyria Revelations,” Sullivan has written other fantasy series, including “The Riyria Chronicles,” which serves as a prequel to the main series, and “Legends of the First Empire,” a series set in a different time period within the same world.
How to Read The Riyria Revelations
This series was published in two different ways. Initially it was six books which were self-published and then they were republished by Orbit in three, two-book omnibus editions. We will refer to the Orbit version throughout all of this as that is how you will read them now. The originals are now out of print.
A note on how The Riyria Revelations and The Riyria Chronicles relate and should be read:
The Riyria Chronicles is a prequel series to The Riyria Revelations. The former explores the origin of the partnership between Royce and Hadrian, how Riyria was formed, and the adventures the two went on during the twelve years prior to the events in The Riyria Revelations.
While you can read the books in either publication order (starting with Theft of Swords) or chronologically (starting with The Crown Tower) the author suggests publication order as you are introduced to the characters and world as originally intended. In addition, there are some subtle winks and nods for veterans of Revelations when reading Chronicles. These aren’t major plot points, just little extras for “those in the know.” For this reason we’ve set our reading order to be the same.
- Theft of Swords (2011): The Crown Conspiracy (2008) & Avempartha (2009)
Riyria Revelations #1-2
244,000 words, 691 pages, 22 hrs and 38 mins to read
Published by Orbit
4.22 out of 5 on Goodreads
Royce Melborn, a skilled thief, and his mercenary partner, Hadrian Blackwater, make a profitable living carrying out dangerous assignments for conspiring nobles-until they are hired to pilfer a famed sword. What appears to be just a simple job finds them framed for the murder of the king and trapped in a conspiracy that uncovers a plot far greater than the mere overthrow of a tiny kingdom.
Can a self-serving thief and an idealistic swordsman survive long enough to unravel the first part of an ancient mystery that has toppled kings and destroyed empires?
And so begins the first tale of treachery and adventure, sword fighting and magic, myth and legend.
When author Michael J. Sullivan self-published the first books of his Riyria Revelations, they rapidly became ebook bestsellers. Now, Orbit is pleased to present the complete series for the first time in bookstores everywhere.
- Rise of Empire (2011): Nyphron Rising (2009) & The Emerald Storm (2010)
Riyria Revelations #3-4
285,000 words, 786 pages, 26 hrs and 27 mins to read
Published by Orbit
4.36 out of 5 on Goodreads
War has come to Melengar and once more Royce and Hadrian are hired to make a desperate gamble and form an alliance with the Nationalists who are fighting the Imperialists in the south. As the power of the Nyphron Empire grows, so does Royce’s suspicion that the wizard Esrahaddon is using the thieves as pawns in his own grab for power. To find the truth, he must unravel the secret of Hadrian’s past–what he discovers may end their friendship and break Riyria in two.
- Heir of Novron (2012: Wintertide (2010) & Percepliquis (2011)
Riyria Revelations #5-6
340,000 words, 924 pages, 31 hrs and 48 mins to read
Published by Orbit
4.50 out of 5 on Goodreads
The New Empire intends to celebrate its victory over the Nationalists with a day that will never be forgotten. On the high holiday of Wintertide, they plan to execute two traitors (Degan Gaunt and the Witch of Melengar) as well as force the Empress into a marriage of their own design. But they didn’t account for Royce and Hadrian finally locating the Heir of Novron—or the pair’s desire to wreak havoc on the New Empire’s carefully crafted scheme.
Heir of Novron is the final volume of The Riyria Revelations and includes “Wintertide” and —available for the first time— the final volume, “Percepliquis.”
How to Read The Riyria Chronicles
As mentioned in the above section, The Riyria Chronicles is a prequel series to The Riyria Revelations.
You can read the books chronologically (starting with The Crown Tower) but we suggest you read them in publication order as you are introduced to the characters and world as originally intended.
- The Crown Tower (2013)
The Riyria Chronicles #1
138,000 words, 384 pages, 12 hrs and 49 mins to read
Published by Orbit
4.33 out of 5 on Goodreads
A warrior with nothing to fight for is paired with a thieving assassin with nothing to lose. Together they must steal a treasure that no one can reach. The Crown Tower is the impregnable remains of the grandest fortress ever built and home to the realm’s most valuable possessions. But it isn’t gold or jewels the old wizard is after, and this prize can only be obtained by the combined talents of two remarkable men. Now if Arcadius can just keep Hadrian and Royce from killing each other, they just might succeed.
1.5. The Viscount and the Witch (2011) 
The Riyria Chronicles #1.5
5,400 words, 43 pages, 30 mins to read
Published by Orbit
4.23 out of 5 on Goodreads
Eleven years before they were framed for the murder of a king, before even assuming the title of Riyria, Royce Melborn and Hadrian Blackwater were practically strangers. Unlikely associates, this cynical thief and idealist swordsman, were just learning how to work together as a team.
In this standalone short story of The Riyria Chronicles, Royce is determined to teach his naive partner a lesson about good deeds. Join Royce and Hadrian in this short story.
This is now a chapter in Ryria Chronicles # 2: The Rose and the Thorn, so for those looking to read the entire series in order, reading this short story on its own isn’t necessary.
- The Rose and the Thorn (2013)
The Riyria Chronicles #2
128,000 words, 347 pages, 11 hrs and 53 mins to read
Published by Orbit
4.40 out of 5 on Goodreads
For more than a year Royce Melborn has tried to forget Gwen DeLancy, the woman who saved him and his partner Hadrian Blackwater from certain death. Unable to get her out of his mind, the two thieves return to Medford but receive a very different reception — Gwen refuses to see them. The victim of abuse by a powerful noble, she suspects that Royce will ignore any danger in his desire for revenge. By turning the thieves away, Gwen hopes to once more protect them. What she doesn’t realize is what the two are capable of — but she’s about to find out.
2.5. The Jester (2014) 
The Riyria Chronicles #2.5
7,200 words, 53 mins to read
Published by Audible Studios
3.95 out of 5 on Goodreads
Stop me if you’ve heard this one. A thief, a candlemaker, an ex-mercenary, and a pig farmer walk into a trap…and what happens to them is no joke. When Riyria is hired to retrieve a jester’s treasure, Royce and Hadrian must match wits with a dwarf who proves to be anything but a fool. Difficult choices will need to be made, and in the end those who laugh last do so because they are the only ones to survive.
This is a standalone short story of 7,200 words, originally published in the Unfettered anthology. No prior knowledge of The Riyria Revelations or The Riyria Chronicles is required to enjoy it to its fullest, making this a perfect introduction for new readers or a chance for Riyria veterans to spend a little more time with old friends. The Jester is a story of adventure, bonds of friendship, and a recognition that the choices we make dictates the future we find.
2.6. Professional Integrity (2015) 
The Riyria Chronicles #2.6
10,800 words, 1 hr and 17 mins to read
Published by Audible Studios
4.19 out of 5 on Goodreads
Several years have passed since the war-weary mercenary Hadrian and cynical ex-assassin Royce joined forces to start their thieves-for-hire organization better known as Riyria. Things have gone well enough for the team as they do “jobs” for various nobles throughout Elan. Usually that means stealing something, but when a young heiress asks them to steal her…well, that’s a first for the pair. All is not as it seems, but Royce is determined to get the bottom of what’s actually going on. After all, he has his professional integrity at stake.
Originally released in the Blackguards anthology published by Ragnarok Publications, this is a standalone short story of 10,800 words. No prior knowledge of The Riyria Revelations or The Riyria Chronicles is required to enjoy it to its fullest, making this a perfect introduction for new readers or a chance for existing fans to spend a little more time with old friends.
- The Death of Dulgath (2015)
The Riyria Chronicles #3
150,000 words, 448 pages, 13 hrs and 54 mins to read
Published by Riyria Enterprises, LLC
4.38 out of 5 on Goodreads
When the last member of the oldest noble family in Avryn is targeted for assassination, Riyria is hired to foil the plot. Three years have passed since the war-weary mercenary Hadrian and the cynical ex-assassin Royce joined forces to start life as rogues-for-hire. Things have gone well enough until they’re asked to help prevent a murder. Now they must venture into an ancient corner of the world to save a mysterious woman who knows more about Royce than is safe and cares less about herself than is sane.
From the best-selling author of The Riyria Revelations comes the third installment of The Riyria Chronicles. Although part of a series, it’s designed to thrill both new readers looking for fun, fast-paced fantasy and Riyria veterans wishing to reunite with old friends.
- The Disappearance of Winter’s Daughter (2017)
The Riyria Chronicles #4
150,000 words, 444 pages, 13 hrs and 42 mins to read
Published by Riyria Enterprises, LLC
4.41 out of 5 on Goodreads
A daughter vanishes. Two rogues are paid a fortune to find her. It isn’t enough.
When Gabriel Winter’s daughter mysteriously disappears and is presumed dead, the wealthy whiskey baron seeks revenge. Having lived in Colnora during the infamous Year of Fear, he hires the one man he knows can deliver a bloody retribution – the notorious Duster.
Ride with Royce and Hadrian as the cynical ex-assassin and idealistic ex-mercenary travel to a mysterious old-world city filled with nobles claiming descent from imperial aristocracy. Riyria’s job appears easy: discover what happened to the missing duchess and, if she lives, bring her home . . . if not, punish those responsible. But nothing is simple in the crowded, narrow, mist-filled streets of Rochelle, where more than one ancient legend lurks.
How to Read Legends of the First Empire
The Legends of the First Empire is a fantasy series set in the distant past of the Riyria novels. No prior knowledge of the Riyria books is required to enjoy this series to the fullest, but those who read both will find the truth in various myths and legends and see for themselves how The First Empire was formed. The six books of this series are divided into two closely related trilogies. The first half has three largely standalone tales, The second half is one long tale broken into three books. We recommend reading them in publication order but there are not hard rules in which order to read them.
- Age of Myth (2016)
The Legends of the First Empire #1
182,000 words, 432 pages, 16 hrs and 55 mins to read
Published by Del Ray
4.23 out of 5 on Goodreads
Age of Myth inaugurates another six-book series set in Elan.
Since time immemorial, humans have worshipped the gods they call Fhrey, truly a race apart: invincible in battle, masters of magic, and seemingly immortal. But when a god falls to a human blade, the balance of power between humans and those they thought were gods changes forever.
Now only a few stand between humankind and annihilation: Raithe, reluctant to embrace his destiny as the God Killer; Suri, a young seer burdened by signs of impending doom; and Persephone, who must overcome personal tragedy to lead her people. The Age of Myth is over. The time of rebellion has begun.
- Age of Swords (2017)
The Legends of the First Empire #2
215,000 words, 496 pages, 20 hrs and 3 mins to read
Published by Del Ray
4.29 out of 5 on Goodreads
The gods have been proven mortal and new heroes will arise as the battle continues in the sequel to Age of Myth–from the author of the Riyria Revelations and Riyria Chronicles series.
In Age of Myth, fantasy master Michael J. Sullivan launched readers on an epic journey of magic and adventure, heroism and betrayal, love and loss. Now the thrilling saga continues as the human uprising is threatened by powerful enemies from without–and bitter rivalries from within.
Raithe, the God Killer, may have started the rebellion by killing a Fhrey, but long-standing enmities dividing the Rhunes make it all but impossible to unite against the common foe. And even if the clans can join forces, how will they defeat an enemy whose magical prowess renders them indistinguishable from gods?
The answer lies across the sea in a faraway land populated by a reclusive and dour race who feel nothing but disdain for both Fhrey and mankind. With time running out, Persephone leads the gifted young seer Suri, the Fhrey sorceress Arion, and a small band of misfits in a desperate search for aid–a quest that will take them into the darkest depths of Elan. There, an ancient adversary waits, as fearsome as it is deadly.
- Age of War (2018)
The Legends of the First Empire #3
180,000 words, 462 pages, 16 hrs and 47 mins to read
Published by Del Ray
4.42 out of 5 on Goodreads
The alliance of humans and renegade Fhrey is fragile—and about to be tested as never before. Persephone keeps the human clans from turning on one another through her iron will and a compassionate heart. The arrogant Fhrey are barely held in check by their leader, Nyphron, who seeks to advance his own nefarious agenda through a loveless marriage that will result in the betrayal of the person Persephone loves most: Raithe, the God Killer.
As the Fhrey overlords marshal their army and sorcerers to crush the rebellion, old loyalties will be challenged while fresh conspiracies will threaten to undo all that Persephone has accomplished. In the darkest hour, when hope is all but lost, new heroes will rise . . . but at what terrible cost?
- Age of Legend (2019)
The Legends of the First Empire #4
157,000 words, 480 pages, 14 hrs and 34 mins to read
Published by Riyria Enterprises, LLC
4.34 out of 5 on Goodreads
With Age of Myth, Age of Swords, and Age of War, fantasy master Michael J. Sullivan riveted readers with a tale of unlikely heroes locked in a desperate battle to save mankind. After years of warfare, humanity has gained the upper hand and has pushed the Fhrey to the edge of their homeland, but no farther. Now comes the pivotal moment. Persephone’s plan to use the stalemate to seek peace is destroyed by an unexpected betrayal that threatens to hand victory to the Fhrey and leaves a dear friend in peril. Her only hope lies in the legend of a witch, a forgotten song, and a simple garden door.
- Age of Death (2019)
The Legends of the First Empire #5
150,000 words, 420 pages, 13 hrs and 57 mins to read
Published by Riyria Enterprises, LLC
4.28 out of 5 on Goodreads
Winter blankets the land, and more than just hope has died. Prevented from invading the Fhrey homeland by the tower of Avempartha, the western army seeks a way across the Nidwalden River before the fane obtains the secret of dragons. As time runs out for both humanity and the mystic Suri, the only chance for the living rests with the dead. Having made their fateful choice, can a handful of misfits do the impossible, or are they forever lost to an inescapable grave? Do gods truly exist? Is it possible to know the future? And what lies beyond the veil of death? In the tradition of Virgil’s Aeneid, Dante’s Divine Comedy, and Milton’s Paradise Lost, the most epic of tales transcend the world of the living. It’s time to see what lies in Elan’s Age of Death.
- Age of Empyre (2020)
The Legends of the First Empire #6
180,000 words, 395 pages, 16 hrs and 42 mins to read
Published by Riyria Enterprises, LLC
4.39 out of 5 on Goodreads
After obtaining the secret to creating dragons, the leader of the Fhrey has turned the tide of war once more—but gaining the advantage has come at a terrible price. While Imaly plots to overthrow the fane for transgressions against his people, a mystic and a Keeper are the only hope for the Rhunes. Time is short, and the future of both races hangs in the balance. In this exciting conclusion to the Legends of the First Empire series, the Great War finally comes to a climactic end, and with it dawns a new era—The Age of Empyre.
How to Read The Rise and Fall Series
With the ending of the great war between humans and those they once thought of as gods, a new empire rises and will eventually fall. This series tells the tales of how that occurred as seen through the eyes of three important historical figures in the world of Elan. This is another series set well before the events in the Riyria Revelations. It is technically a standalone series with each book continuing from where the last left off but very loosely. We’d recommend reading these after other series by Michael J Sullivan as you’ll likely get a fuller experience.
- Nolyn (2021)
The Rise and Fall #1
148,000 words, 480 pages, 13 hrs and 51 mins to read
Published by Grim Oak Press
4.20 out of 5 on Goodreads
After more than five hundred years of exile, the heir to the empyre is wary about his sudden reinstatement to active duty on the Goblin War’s front lines. His assignment to rescue an outpost leads to a dead-end canyon deep inside enemy territory, and his suspicion turns to dread when he discovers the stronghold doesn’t exist. But whoever went to the trouble of planning his death to look like a casualty of war didn’t know he would be assigned to the Seventh Sikaria Auxiliary Squadron. In the depths of an unforgiving jungle, a legend is about to be born, and the world of Elan will never be the same.
- Farilane (2022)
The Rise and Fall #2
144,000 words, 440 pages, 13 hrs and 44 mins to read
Published by Riyria Enterprises
4.58 out of 5 on Goodreads
Some truths are dangerous, certain secrets best concealed, and one story never should have been written at all.
Being an unwanted twin in the imperial line of succession, Farilane becomes a scholar, an adventurer, and—in a time when reading is forbidden—a hunter of books. Her singular obsession is finding the mythical Book of Brin, a tome not just lost but intentionally buried. Although she is respected and beloved by the Teshlor Knights, not even their legendary skills can protect her, for what she finds is more dangerous than what she sought.
- Esrahaddon (expected 2023)
The Rise and Fall #3
713 pages
Published by Riyria Enterprises LLC
4.63 out of 5 on Goodreads
A hero to some. A villain to many. The truth forever buried.
The man who became known as Esrahaddon is reported to have destroyed the world’s greatest empire—but there are those who believe he saved it. Few individuals are as divisive, but all agree on three facts: He was exiled to the wilderness, hunted by a goblin priestess, and sentenced to death by a god—all before the age of eight. How he managed to survive and why people continued to fear his name a thousand years later has always been a mystery…until now.
Overall
Michael J Sullivan is one of the most prolific and well loved fantasy authors working today. He’s had a long and successful career spanning multiple different publishers and has self published, ran kickstarter campaigns and is generally one of the most active, well rounded authors we’ve covered here on Bridging’s Books.
If you have enjoyed any of his work and want to learn more about him or any other of he’s up to next, then feel free to check out his website, Goodreads or his Twitter
Which one is your favourite or most looking forward to picking up next?
Let us know!
Happy reading!
Michael J Sullivan Books Total Word Count
Total Words: 2,814,400
Total Pages: 8,385
Total Time to Read/Listen: 262 hrs and 24 mins
More of the same, but different:
- Realm of the Elderlings Books in Order
- The First Law Books in Order
- Kingkiller Chronicle Books in Order
For More of Anything:
Things to Note:
- Word count is an approximation.
- Amount of pages may differ due to different publications, font style and/or size etc.
- Time spent reading is generally an approximation based on the word count and the average reading time. The average reader will read 250 WPM (Words Per Minute).
- This is the original publisher of the books.
- The current Goodreads score at the time of writing.
- For more information on word lengths and what they mean, check out our handy guide here.
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