The Maze Cutter books must be read in chronological order, which matches the publication order, by following this sequence:⁠[1-2]

Order Cover Title First published Notes
1 Book cover of The Maze Cutter. The Maze Cutter 2022⁠[6] Introduces the new generation, the islanders, the Godhead, and the journey.
2 Book cover of The Godhead Complex. The Godhead Complex 2023⁠[7] Continues with the group divided by competing destinations and factions.
3 Book cover of The Infinite Glade. The Infinite Glade 2025⁠[2] Follows the second book and brings the storylines toward resolution.

1. The Maze Cutter

Main bookRequired reading
Book cover of The Maze Cutter.
Book cover of The Maze Cutter.

The Maze Cutter (2022)⁠[6] begins the sequel-era storyline after the original survivors have established a new settlement. It introduces descendants and successors drawn away from isolation when a ship arrives with a mission tied to the Flare, the Cure, and Newt’s bloodline.⁠[3]

This novel sets up the central factions, including the Godhead and the Remnant Nation, and ends with the main characters scattered across a dangerous mainland.⁠[3]

2. The Godhead Complex

Main bookRequired reading
Book cover of The Godhead Complex.
Book cover of The Godhead Complex.

The Godhead Complex (2023)⁠[7] continues the journey begun in The Maze Cutter, following the islanders after their encounter with the wider world. This story divides its focus between the travelers heading toward Alaska, the group drawn toward the Villa, and the internal conflict within the Godhead.⁠[4]

It expands the questions surrounding the Cure and makes the first book’s revelations essential background for the conflicts that follow.⁠[4]

3. The Infinite Glade

Main bookRequired reading
Book cover of The Infinite Glade.
Book cover of The Infinite Glade.

The Infinite Glade (2025)⁠[2] follows the separated groups after the upheavals of The Godhead Complex. It continues the threads involving the Godhead, the Remnant Nation, the Villa, and the search for the truth behind the Cure, while also returning to the Maze as a central location in the series.⁠[5]

This novel is the third stage of the continuing narrative rather than a separate entry point.⁠[5]

References

  1. The Maze Cutter Series. James Dashner.
  2. THE INFINITE GLADE. Akashic Media Enterprises.
  3. The Maze Cutter. Akashic Media Enterprises. ISBN: 9798985955217.
  4. The Godhead Complex. Akashic Media Enterprises. ISBN: 9798985955224.
  5. The Infinite Glade. Akashic Media Enterprises. ISBN: 9798988421535.
  6. THE MAZE CUTTER. Akashic Media Enterprises.
  7. THE GODHEAD COMPLEX. Akashic Media Enterprises.