The Rise of the Dragon

An Illustrated History of the Targaryen Dynasty, Volume One

By: George R. R. Martin, Elio M. García Jr, Linda Antonsson

Narrated by: Harry Lloyd

This lavish visual history—featuring over 180 all-new illustrations—is a stunning introduction to House Targaryen, the iconic family at the heart of HBO’s Game of Thrones prequel series, House of the Dragon.

For hundreds of years, the Targaryens sat the Iron Throne of Westeros while their dragons ruled the skies. The story of the only family of dragonlords to survive Valyria’s Doom is a tale of twisty politics, alliances and betrayals, and acts both noble and craven. The Rise of the Dragon chronicles the creation and rise of Targaryen power in Westeros, covering the history first told in George R. R. Martin’s epic Fire & Blood, from Aegon Targaryen’s conquest of Westeros through to the infamous Dance of the Dragons—the bloody civil war that nearly undid Targaryen rule for good.

Packed with all-new artwork, the Targaryens—and their dragons—come vividly to life in this deluxe reference book. Perfect for fans steeped in the lore of Westeros, as well as those who first meet the Targaryens in the HBO series House of the Dragon, The Rise of the Dragon provides a must-have overview for anyone looking to learn more about the most powerful family in Westeros.

Includes a bonus PDF of illustrations from the book

Critic reviews

“Every page of this book is filled with something beautiful to look at . . . a book that any collector of fantasy and fantasy artwork should have on their shelves.”—Forbes

“A breathtaking look at the Targaryen Dynasty.”—Collider

Dance of dragons

Great story telling love this series listened all through and the detail is a wonder

The Targaryens storied history. A must read!

I really liked the story of King Jaharheys, what a king! Also the Dance of the Dragons was a tragic end to such a storied family.

Rise Of the Dragon!!

loved the narration by Harry Lloyd, I thought it fit perfect for this telling of the Targareyns rise to power.

Its better to buy the physical copy

So I got about 10mins into this and return the title. The issue is this is one of those books its better to track done and buy the physical copy due to the presentation of the material.

Excellent pacing!

Excellent history! This is not a story for those interested in romance or action in the form of narrative storytelling. This is a great book for those who enjoy Greek histories and or medieval histories such that the pacing is quick information is extensive yet easy to follow along with. Took me a day to listen to via audiobook while I worked. 10 out of 10 recommend.