About Game of Thrones

The A Song of Ice and Fire book series by George R.R. Martin, upon which the Game of Thrones television series is based, is a sprawling epic consisting of currently five published novels:

1. A Game of Thrones (1996)
2. A Clash of Kings (1999)
3. A Storm of Swords (2000)
4. A Feast for Crows (2005)
5. A Dance with Dragons (2011)

The series is known for its intricate plotlines, morally ambiguous characters, and the ruthless power struggles among the noble houses of Westeros. The books are set in a medieval-inspired world where seasons can last for years, and magic and political intrigue abound.

The story is told through the perspectives of numerous characters, each with their own motivations and agendas. Central to the plot are the Starks, Lannisters, Targaryens, and other noble families as they maneuver for power, engage in battles, form alliances, and betray one another in their quest for dominance.

The narrative also delves into supernatural elements such as dragons, direwolves, and the mysterious White Walkers who threaten the realm from the far north. The series remains unfinished, with Martin still working on the next installment, The Winds of Winter, and another planned book, A Dream of Spring, to follow.

Books Like Game of Thrones

The Wheel of Time – Robert Jordan

In The Wheel of Time, a mystical force known as the One Power drives the world’s magic, wielded by women called Aes Sedai and men known as channelers. The series begins in the small village of Emond’s Field, where five young villagers discover their destinies entwined with the fate of the world. As the Dark One, the embodiment of evil, begins to stir, prophecies foretell the coming of the Dragon Reborn, a powerful figure who will either save or doom humanity.

Spanning over fourteen books, the series follows these characters through a labyrinth of political intrigue, epic battles, and personal trials. Intricate political maneuvering and power struggles echo the intrigue of Game of Thrones, while the vast ensemble cast, including characters with morally ambiguous motivations, adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Jordan’s richly detailed world-building, complete with diverse cultures, religions, and histories, immerses readers in a fantastical realm where the fate of nations hangs in the balance.

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The Stormlight Archive – Brandon Sanderson

The Stormlight Archive transports readers to the world of Roshar, where fierce storms sweep across rocky landscapes and mystical powers known as Surgebinding are wielded by knights in armor made of living Shardplate. The series follows various characters, including Kaladin, Shallan, and Dalinar, as they navigate the intricate politics and power struggles of the Alethi kingdom and beyond.

With its expansive world-building, epic battles, and morally complex characters, The Stormlight Archive offers a narrative akin to Game of Thrones.

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The Lord of the Rings Series – J.R.R. Tolkien

The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien is a classic epic fantasy saga set in the fictional world of Middle-earth. The story follows the journey of Frodo Baggins, a hobbit tasked with destroying the One Ring, a powerful artifact that holds the fate of the world in its grasp. Joined by a fellowship of diverse companions including Gandalf the wizard, Aragorn the ranger, and Legolas the elf, Frodo embarks on a perilous quest to Mount Doom, where the Ring can be unmade. Along the way, they face dark forces, epic battles, and moral dilemmas that test their resolve and friendship.

With its rich mythology, intricate world-building, and themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the battle between good and evil, The Lord of the Rings offers readers an immersive and timeless narrative that has captivated generations of fantasy enthusiasts.

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The Malazan Book of the Fallen – Steven Erikson

The Malazan Book of the Fallen is an epic fantasy series set in the sprawling Malazan Empire, a realm rife with political intrigue, ancient mysteries, and supernatural conflicts. As various factions vie for power and dominion, gods meddle in mortal affairs, and legendary warriors clash on the battlefield.

With its vast scope, complex narrative structure, and morally ambiguous characters, the series presents a gripping tale reminiscent of the intrigue and complexity found in Game of Thrones.

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The First Law Trilogy – Joe Abercrombie

The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie follows a cast of morally gray characters navigating a gritty and violent world reminiscent of medieval Europe. As war looms on the horizon, unlikely alliances are forged, betrayals abound, and characters confront their own inner demons.

Abercrombie’s dark and realistic portrayal of human nature, coupled with intricate political machinations, offers readers a compelling narrative similar to the intrigue found in Game of Thrones.

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The Lies of Locke Lamora – Scott Lynch

In The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch, readers are introduced to the city of Camorr, a vibrant yet dangerous metropolis ruled by cunning thieves and powerful nobles. The story follows Locke Lamora, a skilled con artist, and his band of misfits as they navigate treacherous schemes and elaborate heists.

With its intricate plotting, morally ambiguous characters, and richly detailed world-building, The Lies of Locke Lamora delivers a gripping tale reminiscent of the intrigue and suspense of Game of Thrones.

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The Broken Empire Trilogy – Mark Lawrence

In The Broken Empire Trilogy, Mark Lawrence introduces readers to Prince Jorg Ancrath, a cunning and ruthless protagonist determined to reclaim his birthright and seek vengeance against those who wronged him. Set in a post-apocalyptic world filled with magic and brutality, the series explores themes of power, redemption, and the consequences of ambition.

With its dark and gritty atmosphere, morally ambiguous characters, and intricate plot twists, The Broken Empire Trilogy offers a gripping narrative reminiscent of the intrigue and complexity found in Game of Thrones.

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The Powder Mage Trilogy – Brian McClellan

The Powder Mage Trilogy by Brian McClellan is set in a world on the brink of industrial revolution, where gunpowder and muskets have begun to challenge traditional magic. Amidst political turmoil and social upheaval, Field Marshal Tamas leads a coup against the corrupt monarchy, unleashing chaos and rebellion across the land. As ancient gods awaken and new powers emerge, Tamas and his allies must navigate treacherous alliances and supernatural threats to secure their newfound freedoms.

With its blend of military strategy, political intrigue, and fantastical elements, The Powder Mage Trilogy offers readers a thrilling narrative reminiscent of the intrigue and complexity found in Game of Thrones.

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The Prince of Nothing Series – R. Scott Bakker

The Prince of Nothing series by R. Scott Bakker is a dark and complex epic fantasy set in a world torn apart by religious conflict and the ambitions of power-hungry rulers. As the Holy War rages across the continent of Earwa, various factions vie for control, and ancient secrets threaten to unravel the fabric of reality itself.

With its philosophical themes, intricate plotting, and morally ambiguous characters, The Prince of Nothing series offers readers a gripping narrative reminiscent of the intrigue and complexity found in Game of Thrones.

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The Chronicles of the Unhewn Throne Trilogy – Brian Staveley

The Chronicles of the Unhewn Throne trilogy by Brian Staveley follows the story of the children of an assassinated emperor as they navigate political intrigue, betrayal, and ancient conspiracies in a world on the brink of war. As the heirs to the throne uncover dark secrets about their family’s past, they must confront their own destinies and make difficult choices that will shape the future of their empire.

With its complex characters, intricate world-building, and epic scope, The Chronicles of the Unhewn Throne trilogy offers readers a compelling narrative reminiscent of the intrigue and complexity found in Game of Thrones.

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The Lightbringer Series – Brent Weeks

The Lightbringer Series by Brent Weeks is set in a world where magic is based on the manipulation of light, and a select few individuals known as Drafters have the ability to harness its power. As political intrigue and religious strife threaten to engulf the Seven Satrapies in chaos, a young boy named Gavin Guile discovers he is the Prism, a powerful figure prophesied to save—or doom—his world.

With its complex magic system, morally ambiguous characters, and intricate plotting, The Lightbringer Series offers readers a compelling narrative reminiscent of the depth and complexity found in Game of Thrones.

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The Dagger and the Coin Series – Daniel Abraham

The Dagger and the Coin series by Daniel Abraham follows the intertwining paths of various characters, including a banker, a nobleman’s daughter, and a mercenary, as they navigate a world on the brink of war and political upheaval. As ancient conspiracies resurface and long-held alliances crumble, each character must confront their own ambitions and loyalties in the face of shifting power dynamics.

With its intricate plot, multifaceted characters, and nuanced exploration of themes such as power and betrayal, The Dagger and the Coin series offers readers a captivating narrative reminiscent of the intrigue and complexity found in Game of Thrones.

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The Riyria Revelations Series – Michael J. Sullivan

The Riyria Revelations series by Michael J. Sullivan follows the adventures of Royce Melborn, a skilled thief, and Hadrian Blackwater, a talented swordsman, as they find themselves embroiled in political intrigue, ancient mysteries, and epic battles. Set in a world where kingdoms vie for power and dark forces threaten to plunge the land into chaos, Royce and Hadrian must navigate treacherous alliances and confront their own troubled pasts as they strive to uncover the truth behind a conspiracy that could change the fate of their world.

With its fast-paced action, witty banter, and richly developed characters, The Riyria Revelations series offers readers a thrilling narrative reminiscent of the excitement and complexity found in Game of Thrones.

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The Farseer Trilogy – Robin Hobb

The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb introduces readers to the realm of the Six Duchies, where the bastard son of a prince, FitzChivalry Farseer, is trained as an assassin for the royal family. As Fitz navigates court intrigue, supernatural threats, and personal betrayals, he uncovers a sinister plot that threatens the stability of the kingdom.

With its richly drawn characters, intricate world-building, and emotional depth, The Farseer Trilogy” offers readers a compelling narrative reminiscent of the complexity and intrigue found in Game of Thrones.

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The Witcher Series – Andrzej Sapkowski

The Witcher series by Andrzej Sapkowski follows the adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter known as a Witcher, as he traverses a dark and dangerous world filled with mythical creatures, political intrigue, and moral ambiguity. Geralt’s journey leads him to confront powerful sorcerers, treacherous kings, and the consequences of his own choices as he navigates a realm torn apart by war and chaos.

With its morally gray characters, intricate world-building, and themes of destiny and redemption, The Witcher series offers readers a captivating narrative reminiscent of the complexity and depth found in Game of Thrones.

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The Chronicles of Amber Series – Roger Zelazny

The Chronicles of Amber series by Roger Zelazny follows the adventures of Corwin, a prince of the mystical realm of Amber, as he awakens from a bout of amnesia and sets out to reclaim his birthright. As Corwin navigates the intrigues and power struggles of his family, he uncovers long-held secrets and confronts adversaries both mortal and divine.

With its blend of epic fantasy, political intrigue, and multiverse-spanning adventure, The Chronicles of Amber offers readers a captivating narrative reminiscent of the complexity and intrigue found in Game of Thrones.

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The Drenai Saga – David Gemmell

The Drenai Saga by David Gemmell is a series of heroic fantasy novels set in the war-torn land of Drenai, where legendary heroes and villains clash in battles of epic proportions. From the siege of Dros Delnoch to the exploits of the legendary Druss the Legend, the series explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the human capacity for both good and evil.

With its larger-than-life characters, epic battles, and themes of honor and redemption, The Drenai Saga offers readers a thrilling narrative reminiscent of the excitement and complexity found in Game of Thrones.

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The Belgariad Series – David Eddings

The Belgariad series by David Eddings is a classic epic fantasy tale following the journey of a young farm boy named Garion, who discovers he is the heir to a powerful sorcerer known as the Rivan King. Accompanied by a cast of colorful characters including the sorcerer Belgarath and the princess Ce’Nedra, Garion embarks on a quest to retrieve a stolen artifact and fulfill his destiny.

With its timeless themes of heroism, destiny, and the battle between light and dark, The Belgariad offers readers a captivating narrative reminiscent of the adventure and intrigue found in Game of Thrones.

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The Demon Cycle Series – Peter V. Brett

The Demon Cycle series by Peter V. Brett is set in a world plagued by demons that rise from the earth each night to terrorize humanity. The story follows several protagonists, including Arlen, Leesha, and Rojer, as they seek to uncover the secrets of ancient wards and magic in order to combat the demon threat. As the characters grapple with personal demons and the moral complexities of survival, they must band together to defend humanity against the forces of darkness.

With its unique magic system, complex characters, and themes of resilience and redemption, The Demon Cycle offers readers a thrilling narrative reminiscent of the tension and drama found in Game of Thrones.

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The Earthsea Cycle – Ursula K. Le Guin

The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin is a beloved fantasy series set in the archipelago of Earthsea, a world permeated by magic and inhabited by wizards, dragons, and other fantastical beings. The series follows the journey of Ged, a young boy with innate magical talent, as he trains to become a powerful wizard and confronts the dark shadows that threaten to engulf his world.

With its lyrical prose, philosophical depth, and exploration of themes such as power, balance, and the consequences of one’s actions, The Earthsea Cycle offers readers a thought-provoking narrative reminiscent of the depth and complexity found in Game of Thrones.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any books similar to Game of Thrones?

If you enjoyed George R.R. Martin’s epic fantasy series, you might like The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan or The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson. Both offer complex worlds, political intrigue, and rich character development reminiscent of Game of Thrones.

What book series inspired Game of Thrones?

George R.R. Martin drew inspiration from various historical events, such as the Wars of the Roses, as well as literary works like J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and historical fiction novels like Maurice Druon’s The Accursed Kings.

Will Winds of Winter ever be released?

As of now, there is no confirmed release date for The Winds of Winter, the highly anticipated next book in the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series by George R.R. Martin. Fans eagerly await updates from the author, but there has been no official announcement regarding its publication.

What style is Game of Thrones books?

George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series, which includes Game of Thrones, is characterized by its sprawling narrative, multiple viewpoint characters, intricate political plots, and morally gray characters. The books blend elements of fantasy, historical fiction, and political drama, creating a complex and immersive reading experience.

The post Books Like Game of Thrones: 20 Novels to Read Next appeared first on ReignOfReads.

With the new HBO Original Series, House of the Dragon earning itself global praise, it’s only fair that we take a look at the epic story the series is based on! Whether you read the books or watch the series first, there’s definitely a lot to enjoy in Fire & Blood!

So come along and check out everything you need to know about George R.R Martin’s Fire & Blood!

Fire And Blood

Centuries before the events of A Game of Thrones, House Targaryen—the only family of dragonlords to survive the Doom of Valyria—took up residence on Dragonstone. Fire & Blood begins their tale with the legendary Aegon the Conqueror, creator of the Iron Throne, and goes on to recount the generations of Targaryens who fought to hold that iconic seat, all the way up to the civil war that nearly tore their dynasty apart.

What really happened during the Dance of the Dragons? Why was it so deadly to visit Valyria after the Doom? What were Maegor the Cruel’s worst crimes? What was it like in Westeros when dragons ruled the skies? These are but a few of the questions answered in this essential chronicle, as related by a learned maester of the Citadel and featuring more than eighty black-and-white illustrations by artist Doug Wheatley. Readers have glimpsed small parts of this narrative in such volumes as The World of Ice & Fire, but now, for the first time, the full tapestry of Targaryen history is revealed.

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“The saga is a rich and dark one, full of both the title’s promised elements. . . . It’s hard not to thrill to the descriptions of dragons engaging in airborne combat, or the dilemma of whether defeated rulers should ‘bend the knee,’ ‘take the black’ and join the Night’s Watch, or simply meet an inventive and horrible end.”

The Guardian

Our Overview

Fire and Blood is a historical fantasy novel by George R.R Martin, which is set in the world of his “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, but it is a prequel to the events of the series.

This novel tells the history of the Targaryen family and their conquest of Westeros, specifically focusing on the reigns of the first Targaryen kings and their struggles to maintain control of the Seven Kingdoms. The story covers the reigns of Aegon the Conqueror, his sons Aenys and Maegor the Cruel, and his grandson Viserys I. Throughout the novel, the Targaryens battle rivals for the Iron Throne, deal with rebellions and political plots, and contend with the fiery dragons that are their family’s symbol.

We also see the exploration of the Targaryen’s relationship with the other noble houses of Westeros and the smallfolk, which ultimately led to the Targaryen’s downfall and the beginning of the events in A Song of Ice and Fire series.

Our Review

We might not have book 6 yet, but thankfully we aren’t starved for delicious fantasy content from Martin! Whislt some people may not be a fan of prequels, we can’t find anything but love for Fire & Blood! The history of the house is so rich and dynamic, it’s interesting to see how their control over their land has changed; for better and for worse, through history.

The world-building in this novel is as impressive as always. Martin’s writing never fails to deliver on the promise of letting the reader feel as if they are living in the world of Westeros, and the use of dragons as a central aspect of the story adds an extra layer of fantasy and intrigue and reminds us of our favorite Dragon Queen. The novel also does a great job of highlighting the complex relationships between the Targaryens and the other noble houses, as well as the common folk, which ultimately led to their downfall.

One minor critique is that, because of the focus on history and politics, the novel may be less accessible to readers who are not already familiar with the world and characters of “A Song of Ice and Fire” series. However, don’t let that scare you! The book is written in such a way that it can be enjoyed by anyone who is a fan of fantasy or historical fiction. (But we would still suggest you delve into the main series first).

Our rating: ★★★★☆

Fire & Blood Adaptation: House of the Dragon

With the beloved HBO series adaption of A Song of Ice and Fire, A Game of Thrones, now over, fans of the series were begging for more. Thankfully, if there’s one thing this entire series is lacking, it’s not content!

House of the Dragon is the adaptation of the Fire & Blood novel by HBO. After its release on August 21, 2022, season two was greenlit only five days following. The first seraon was coveted with praise for its cast, visual effects, writing, score and character development.

The cast have received outstanding praise for their performances. And we can see why! With a wonderful range of cast members, it’s no surprise each episode only gets better and better.

Some notable cast include:

• Rhys Ifans as Ser Otto Hightower
• Matt Smith as Prince Daemon Targaryen
• Fabien Frankel as Ser Criston Cole
• Graham McTavish as Ser Harrold Westerling
• Paddy Considine as King Viserys I Targaryen
• Eve Best as Princess Rhaenys Targaryen
• Milly Alcock as Princess Rhaenys Targaryen
• Steve Toussaint as Lord Corlys

and many more!

Interested? Check out the trailer!

Check out the series now on HBO!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct order of Game of Thrones Books?

The branching canons and miscellanies of genre fiction are commonplace to some fans but the unusual running order of A Song of Ice and Fire has been known to put off newcomers to the series. Have no fear though, the publishing order of the books is still the most sensible reading order.

Here are all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series in (publishing) order:

1. A Game of Thrones (1996)
2. A Clash of Kings (1999)
3. A Storm of Swords (2000)
4. A Feast for Crows (2005)
5. A Dance with Dragons (2011)
6. The Winds of Winter (unreleased)
7. A Dream of Spring (unreleased)

What is Fire & Blood about?

Fire and Blood is about the history of the Targaryen family and their conquest of Westeros, specifically focusing on the reigns of the first Targaryen kings and their struggles to maintain control of the Seven Kingdoms.

Is Fire and Blood a prequel to the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series?

Yes, Fire and Blood is a prequel. Although it can be enjoyed as a standalone, we suggest reading the main novels first.

How many books are in the Fire and Blood series?

Currently there is one book in the series in the Fire and Blood series.

Is Fire and Blood available as an audiobook?

Yes, Fire and Blood is available as an audiobook, check it out here!

Have you read the novel behind the acclaimed TV Series? Let us know!

The post Fire And Blood Book That Inspires House Of The Dragon appeared first on ReignOfReads.

About A Game Of Thrones

A Song Of Ice and Fire is a series of Epic Fantasy novels written by George R R Martin. The first book A Game Of Thrones was published in 1996. There are currently five books published in the series, with a sixth and seventh book planned.

In 2011 the book series was launched into the HBO Series called A Game Of Thrones. It was immediately met with much critical acclaim and was a ratings hit. The show was renewed for a second season very quickly. With popularity growing the TV series continued until the eighth and final season in 2019.

The Song Of Ice And Fire series takes place in a fictional continents of Westeros and Essos. Throughout the series three main stories unfold. A war between several families for the control of Westeros, a threat from supernatural forces, The Others in The North and the King’s exiled daughter’s quest to regain the Iron Throne.

So whether you are a fan of the TV Series or not this is one book series not to miss! Check out everything you need to know about the books below!

A Song Of Ice And Fire (A Game Of Thrones) Books In Order

The following is the recommended reading order of the A Song Of Ice And Fire series:

A Game Of Thrones (Book 1)

In the northernmost of the fiefdoms that owe allegiance to King Robert Baratheon, Eddard Stark of Winterfell rules with his family. But to the north, there lie unnatural beings that are a myth in summer but are all too deadly in the turning of the season.

And in the far south, Jon Arryn, the Hand of the King, has died under mysterious circumstances. Now Robert and his family are heading for Winterfell, where there waits a fateful encounter that will change the course of kingdoms.

Meanwhile, across the Narrow Sea, Prince Viserys, heir of the fallen House Targaryen, schemes to reclaim the throne with an army of barbarian Dothraki.

A Clash Of Kings (Book 2)

A comet the color of blood and flame cuts across the sky. And from the ancient citadel of Dragonstone to the forbidding shores of Winterfell, chaos reigns. Six factions struggle for control of a divided land and the Iron Throne of the Seven Kingdoms. Each preparing to stake their claims through tempest, turmoil, and civil war.

A Storm of Swords (Book 3)

The wars are still raging as violently as ever, alliances are made and broken. Joffery of House Lannister sits on the Iron Throne, an uneasy ruler of the Seven Kingdoms. Meanwhile, making her way across a blood-drenched continent is the exiled queen, Daenerys, mistress of the only three dragons still left in the world.

A Feast For Crows (Book 4)

The war, which raged out of control for so long, has burned itself out. But as in the aftermath of any climactic struggle, it is not long before the survivors, outlaws and renegades start to gather, picking over the bones of the dead and fighting for the spoils of the soon-to-be dead. Now, daring new plots and dangerous new alliances are formed, while surprising faces are seen emerging from an ominous twilight of past struggles and chaos to take up the challenges ahead.

A Dance With Dragons (Book 5)

In the aftermath of a colossal battle, the future of the Seven Kingdoms hangs in the balance, beset by newly emerging threats from every direction. In the east, Daenerys Targaryen rules with her three dragons. And fleeing from Westeros with a price on his head, Tyrion Lannister, is making his way to her. Meanwhile, to the north lies the mammoth Wall of ice and stone, Jon Snow 998th Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch will face his greatest challenge yet.

Book 6 Winds Of Winter and Book 7 A Dream Of Spring are not yet published. Unfortunately, we don’t even have an expected publication date at the moment. Watch this space because we will update as soon as we find out anything! There is also a companion guide available, The World Of Ice And Fire and a novella called Tales Of Dunk and Egg. Also, there is a new show House Of The Dragon that premiered in August 2022, which is based on the spin off novel, Fire And Blood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there 5 or 7 books in Game of Thrones?

There will eventually be 7 books in the Game Of Thrones series (A Song Of Ice And Fire) by George R R Martin. There are currently five released books. However there are two more books that are not yet published. The list of books in the Game Of Thrones series is as follows:

1. A Game Of Thrones
2. A Clash Of Kings
3. A Storm Of Swords
4. A Feast For Crows
5. A Dance With Dragons
6. Winds Of Winter (not yet released)
7. Dreams Of Spring (not yet released)

Are the Game of Thrones books finished?

No the Game Of Thrones books series by George RR Martin is not finished. There are five books released but there are two more upcoming books. The as yet unreleased books are Winds Of Winter and Dreams Of Spring.

What is the best order to read the Game of Thrones books?

The best order to read the Game Of Thrones books (A Song Of Ice And Fire) by George R R Martin is as follows:

1. A Game Of Thrones
2. A Clash Of Kings
3. A Storm Of Swords
4. A Feast For Crows
5. A Dance With Dragons

Which novel in the Game of Thrones book series is your favorite? Let us know!

The post Game Of Thrones Books – A Song Of Ice And Fire appeared first on ReignOfReads.

We’ve been sitting on this book for a while, haven’t we? It’s felt like decades since we put down A Dance With Dragons and eagerly started waiting for The Winds of Winter. It seems like we’re almost there. In preparation, let’s have a look at what we can expect and let’s answer some of the most burning questions about this icy instalment.

“I’m going to open with the two big battles that I was building up to, the battle in the ice and the battle at Meereen — the battle of Slaver’s Bay. And then take it from there.”

George R.R. Martin

What to Expect

It seems that “The Winds of Winter” will feature the resolution of several cliffhangers from the previous book, “A Dance with Dragons,” including the battle in the ice and the battle at Meereen. The story will also take place in a dark and wintery setting, and will follow the experiences of various characters who find themselves in difficult situations. It seems that the Others, a supernatural threat from the far north, will also play a role in the book.

That’s reassuring! We all know the book series isn’t known for being especially happy-go-lucky, but it looks like we’re expecting a lot of worrisome developments.

If we look at the final season of The Game of Theones, the 6-episode series which premiered in April 2019, we know that shit went down.

Without giving away any specific spoilers, the final season of “Game of Thrones” involved the bloody culmination of various plot threads, the resolution of long-running conflicts, and the ultimate fate of the main characters. The Night King and his army of the undead are finally defeated, and the survivors of the great houses of Westeros must decide who will rule the Seven Kingdoms. The final season also featured several significant battles, including the Battle of Winterfell and the Battle of King’s Landing.

Can we expect some twists involving fan-favorite Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen?

How Long Will The Winds of Winter Be?

Martin suggested in 2022 that The Winds of Winter could be bigger than A Storm of Swords or A Dance with Dragons. This led to publishers suggesting Martin split the novel into 2, as he had done with previous instalments. Martin rejected the idea.

Who Will We Be Following in The Winds of Winter?

Although we believe this information to be true at the time of writing, keep in mind that these may be subject to change.

Martin confirmed the following characters have POV chapters in The Winds of Winter (Note, this novel won’t follow the layout of A Feast for Crows, where the chapters and characters were separated by geography).

• Sansa Stark
• Arya Stark
• Arianne Martell
• Aeron Greyjoy
• Theon Greyjoy
• Victarion Greyjoy
• Tyrion Lannister
• Barristan Selmy
• Cersei Lannister
• Jaime Lannister
• Brienne of Tarth
• Areo Hotah
• Jon Connington
• Bran Stark

Martin has confirmed that there will be no new viewpoint characters in this novel.

Will We See Any Teasers?

Oh boy, will you!

Martin has already released a ton of preview chapters between 2012 – 2017. However, Martin has since stated it’s unlikely any more will be released.

Check them out! (Note, since the preview, it’s likely that a lot of these have already been rewritten).

• Alayne (Sansa I)
• Arianne I
• Arianna II
• Barristan I
• The Forsaken (Aeron I)
• Mercy (Arya I)
• Theon I
• Tyrion I
• Victarion I

(Credit to thehawke @ github for compiling these sources).

When Will Winds of Winter Be Released?

The intention was to have the book published before the sixth season of the Game of Thrones series, which aired in 2016.

In 2017, Martin believed that The Winds of Winter would be finished in 2017, but this was later pushed back until 2018. Some publishing demands took time away from his writing, with the publishers demanding Fire & Blood to be finished before The Winds of Winter.

Later in 2020, Martin confirmed he was still working on The Winds of Winter, but his primary focus was working on the TV adaption of Nnedi Okorafor’s scifi novel Who Fears Death as the executive producer.

The latest update was in October 25 2022, where Martin said in an episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert that The Winds of Winter is approximately 3/4 written. Watch below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Note: Our FAQ is shortened as we’ve addressed most questions above. If you have any questions feel free to comment below and we’ll fill you in 😉

What is the correct order of Game of Thrones Books?

The branching canons and miscellanies of genre fiction are commonplace to some fans but the unusual running order of A Song of Ice and Fire has been known to put off newcomers to the series. Have no fear though, the publishing order of the books is still the most sensible reading order.

Here are all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series in (publishing) order:

1. A Game of Thrones (1996)
2. A Clash of Kings (1999)
3. A Storm of Swords (2000)
4. A Feast for Crows (2005)
5. A Dance with Dragons (2011)
6. The Winds of Winter (unreleased)
7. A Dream of Spring (unreleased)

Will winds of winter ever be released 2022?

The expected release date for The Winds Of Winter is expected to be sometime in 2023, so no we can’t expect to see The Winds Of Winter in 2022.

Is The Winds of Winter completed?

The Winds Of Winter is not completed, George RR Martin is still working on it and he has stated that he expects it is going to be a big book. At the moment the release date is expected to be sometime in 2023.

Have you read the novel behind the acclaimed TV Series? Let us know!

The post All We Know About The Winds of Winter (A Song of Ice and Fire #6) appeared first on ReignOfReads.

Dance with Dragons is the fifth installment in author George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series, a set of books that have become immensely popular among readers of fantasy and science fiction genres. This book review will look at the latest installment in the series, Dance with Dragons, to see how it measures up to its predecessors.

So come along and check out everything you need to know about A Dance with Dragons!

A Dance with Dragons (A Song of Ice and Fire Book)

In the aftermath of a colossal battle, the future of the Seven Kingdoms hangs in the balance—beset by newly emerging threats from every direction. In the east, Daenerys Targaryen, the last scion of House Targaryen, rules with her three dragons as queen of a city built on dust and death. But Daenerys has thousands of enemies, and many have set out to find her. As they gather, one young man embarks upon his own quest for the queen, with an entirely different goal in mind.

Fleeing from Westeros with a price on his head, Tyrion Lannister, too, is making his way to Daenerys. But his newest allies in this quest are not the rag-tag band they seem, and at their heart lies one who could undo Daenerys’s claim to Westeros forever.

Meanwhile, to the north lies the mammoth Wall of ice and stone—a structure only as strong as those guarding it. There, Jon Snow, 998th Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch, will face his greatest challenge. For he has powerful foes not only within the Watch but also beyond, in the land of the creatures of ice.

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“I rose too high, loved too hard, dared too much. I tried to grasp a star, overreached, and fell.”

George R.R. Martin, A Dance of Dragons

Our Overview

Daenerys Targaryen has been trying to reclaim her throne as the rightful queen of Westeros. She has been building an army and making alliances in the city of Meereen, but her rule is challenged by the Sons of the Harpy, a secret society of rebels who want to overthrow her.

Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen is losing her grip on the Iron Throne and the citizenry of King’s Landing were living in terror of the upcoming army and dragons of the greens.

Meanwhile, Jon Snow, the lord commander of the Night’s Watch, is facing his own challenges at the Wall. Here we will see the future of the Night’s Watch will face his greatest challenge yet. An army of the undead, known as the Others, is preparing to invade, and Jon must find a way to unite the Watch and gather resources to defend against the impending attack.

Tyrion Lannister is on the run after being falsely accused of murder and has been traveling through the continent of Essos, trying to evade capture and find a new place to call home. He is smuggled across the narrow sea by Varys from King’s Landing to Pentos.

There are also a number of subplots involving other characters, such as Arya Stark, who is training to become a Faceless Man in Braavos; and Bran Stark, who is learning to use his powers as a warg and greenseer.

Our Review

Will there ever be a George R.R Martin book that we won’t love?

Unlikely!

One of the things I enjoyed most about “A Dance with Dragons” was the way it brought together a diverse cast of characters and storylines. From Daenerys Targaryen’s efforts to reclaim her throne as the rightful queen of Westeros to Jon Snow’s efforts to defend the Wall against an army of the undead, the book offers a wide range of exciting and thought-provoking subplots. We especially love seeing how Arya stark grows and develops in her independance and strength in this novel.

Martin’s writing is superb, and he does an excellent job of building tension and creating a sense of urgency as the characters face a series of challenges and make difficult choices that will have far-reaching consequences. There is no such thing as a simple black and white decision. The question of who will take the Iron Throne gets more and more difficult to answer. We can’t wait to see what might develop in the next novel!

Our rating: ★★★★★

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct order of Game of Thrones Books?

The branching canons and miscellanies of genre fiction are commonplace to some fans but the unusual running order of A Song of Ice and Fire has been known to put off newcomers to the series. Have no fear though, the publishing order of the books is still the most sensible reading order.

Here are all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series in (publishing) order:

1. A Game of Thrones (1996)
2. A Clash of Kings (1999)
3. A Storm of Swords (2000)
4. A Feast for Crows (2005)
5. A Dance with Dragons (2011)
6. The Winds of Winter (unreleased)
7. A Dream of Spring (unreleased)

What is A Dance with Dragons about?

In the aftermath of a colossal battle, the future of the Seven Kingdoms hangs in the balance—beset by newly emerging threats from every direction. In the east, Daenerys Targaryen, the last scion of House Targaryen, rules with her three dragons as queen of a city built on dust and death.

Is A Dance with Dragons suitable for all ages?

As with all books in this series, this novel has some pretty gruesome scenes and some very heavy topics. The books are for mature audiences.

How long is A Dance with Dragons?

Depending on publication, the book is around 1,500 pages, spanning across 73 chapters.

Why is a Dance with Dragons in two parts?

Due to its huge scale, Dance with Dragons was split into two parts; by location.

What seasons does A Dance with Dragons follow?

The sixth season mostly follows A Dance with Dragons.

Have you read the novel behind the acclaimed TV Series? Let us know!

The post All About A Dance With Dragons (A Song of Ice and Fire #5) appeared first on ReignOfReads.

With the Netflix show hitting our screens 20 December 2019, it catapulted the series into the spotlight. Even moreso than the game, which were hugely popular in and of itself.

The Last Wish

Geralt is a Witcher, a man whose magic powers, enhanced by long training and a mysterious elixir, have made him a brilliant fighter and a merciless hunter. Yet he is no ordinary killer. His sole purpose: to destroy the monsters that plague the world.

But not everything monstrous-looking is evil and not everything fair is good . . . and in every fairy tale there is a grain of truth.

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While it is not a part of the main saga per se, The Last Wish is definitely my favourite Witcher book. It’s a collection of tales about a man hunting monsters for money. And it’s amazingly good. It is also definitely the place to start reading Witcher stories for those looking for a gateway into this wonderful world.

Markus, Goodreads user

Our Overview

The Last Wish is a collection of short stories by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski that follows the adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a powerful and skilled witcher (a monster hunter for hire). The stories are set in a fantasy world and follow Geralt as he travels across the land, encountering a variety of creatures, magic users, and characters with their own agendas.

The Last Wish is the first book in the Witcher series and serves as a prequel to the Witcher novels.

The collection begins with the story “The Voice of Reason,” which introduces Geralt and his profession as a witcher. It also introduces his close friend and mentor, Vesemir, and his love interest, the sorceress Yennefer. In the following stories, Geralt encounters a number of challenges and must use his witcher training and magical abilities to overcome them.

One such challenge is the quest “The Lesser Evil,” in which Geralt must choose between two equally undesirable options: saving a village from a monster, or allowing the monster to continue terrorizing the village in exchange for a reward. The wizard talks about Shrikes passed and how she ran off with and lived with a group of 7 dwarves. A clear reference to the beloved Snow White tale.

In “A Grain of Truth,” Geralt must confront a djinn and deal with the consequences of making a wish. Those with a keen eye may draw parallels between this story and the old tale of Beauty and the Beast.

In “The Edge of the World,” Geralt must navigate a political intrigue involving a princess, a dragon, and a group of rebels.

We also see “A Question of Price”, in which Queen Calanthe of Cintra wants to ensure a good political marriage for her daughter Princess Pavetta. His quest involves him helping a prince find a beauty who fled the ball and lost her slipper. Jog any memories?

Our Review

When I picked up this book I wasn’t sure what to expect. Safe to say I was thoroughly impressed by the introduction to this fantasy world! I found myself falling for the world, its lore, the adventures, and the characters.

Geralt of Rivia is an incredibly well-developed and complex protagonist, and I found myself rooting for him as he navigated the dangerous and often morally gray areas of his job as a witcher. The story also goes on to explore deeper themes such as love, loyalty, and the consequences of power. Altogether, this novel has a surprising amount of depth for being a ‘prequel’, and sets the stage for what is going to be an epic fantasy.

The world that Sapkowski has crafted is incredibly immersive, and I found myself fully invested in the stories and eager to learn all about the magical creatures and characters that Geralt encounters. The writing is sharp and engaging, and the plot twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat. Not to mention, we are happy to meet Yennefer in this novel.

Overall, this series might be one to dive into. With the Witcher video game series and a Netflix series, there’s more than enough content to dig your teeth into!

Our rating: ★★★★★

Check it out on Netflix

Watch it here

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Last Wish the first Witcher book?

The Last Wish is the first book in Andrzej Sapkowski’s The Witcher series in terms of story chronology, although the original Polish edition was published in 1993, after Sword of Destiny.

Is The Last Wish a short story?

“The Last Wish” is a collection of short stories and the first story is about Geralt curing a striga’s curse. You might recognise this story as it was also shown at the start of the video game.

Is Yennefer in The Last Wish book?

Happy news! We can confirm Yennefer is present in The Last Wish.

Should I read The Last Wish first?

Although it’s not within the main series, The Last Wish is quoted as a really good entry into the series, followed by Sword of Destiny. After reading these, you should be prepared to join the main series with enthusiasm.

Is Ciri in The Last Wish?

Ciri is not in The Last Wish. Ciri and Geralt’s adventures are then the subject of the five books of the main Witcher Saga.

Do you prefer the Witcher games, novels, or show? Let us know!

The post The Last Wish – A Magical Prologue To The Epic Fantasy Series appeared first on ReignOfReads.

An intriguing read, George R.R. Martin’s A Feast for Crows is a thrilling and captivating fantasy novel. In this novel, Martin takes readers on an exciting journey into the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros.

So come along and check out everything you need to know about A Feast for Crows!

A Feast For Crows

With the death of the monstrous King Joffrey, Cersei is ruling as regent in King’s Landing. Robb Stark’s demise has broken the back of the Northern rebels, and his siblings are scattered throughout the kingdom like seeds on barren soil. Few legitimate claims to the once desperately sought Iron Throne still exist—or they are held in hands too weak or too distant to wield them effectively. The war, which raged out of control for so long, has burned itself out.

But as in the aftermath of any climactic struggle, it is not long before the survivors, outlaws, renegades, and carrion eaters start to gather, picking over the bones of the dead and fighting for the spoils of the soon-to-be dead. Now in the Seven Kingdoms, as the human crows assemble over a banquet of ashes, daring new plots and dangerous new alliances are formed, while surprising faces—some familiar, others only just appearing—are seen emerging from an ominous twilight of past struggles and chaos to take up the challenges ahead.

It is a time when the wise and the ambitious, the deceitful and the strong will acquire the skills, the power, and the magic to survive the stark and terrible times that lie before them. It is a time for nobles and commoners, soldiers and sorcerers, assassins and sages to come together and stake their fortunes . . . and their lives. For at a feast for crows, many are the guests—but only a few are the survivors.

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“Most have been forgotten. Most deserve to be forgotten. The heroes will always be remembered. The best. The best and the worst. And a few who were a bit of both.”

George R.R. Martin, A Storm of Swords

Our Overview

A Feast for Crows picks up shortly after the events of the previous book, A Storm of Swords, with the realm of Westeros still in the midst of a civil war known as the War of the Five Kings.

Cersei Lannister has seized the Iron Throne following the death of her husband, King Robert, and the arrest of her brother, Tyrion, who is believed to have killed their father, Tywin Lannister. Despite this, Cersei’s grip on the throne is fragile as she faces numerous challenges, including the return of her estranged brother, Tyrion, who has escaped to the Free Cities in Essos.

Meanwhile, Brienne of Tarth is searching for Sansa Stark, who has been on the run since the death of her father, Eddard Stark. Catelyn Stark, Sansa’s mother, has tasked Brienne with finding her daughter. Brienne’s journey takes her across Westeros, where she meets several other characters, including Podrick Payne and the Hound, and must confront her own past and the concept of loyalty.

Samwell Tarly and Gilly, who have fled the Wall and the Night’s Watch, are traveling to the Citadel in Oldtown in hopes of finding a way to defeat the White Walkers and save the realm. Along the way, they encounter numerous challenges and make some unexpected allies.

Petyr Baelish, known better as Littlefinger, is also furthering his own goal of sitting on the Iron Throne. In A Feast For Crows Baelish who has murdered his wife Lysa Arryn and named himself Protector of the Vale.

The Ironborn, led by Euron Greyjoy from the Iron Islands, are also causing trouble, as they seek to conquer and plunder the mainland of Westeros. Their actions lead to conflict with the mainland.

Finally, the city of King’s Landing is in the midst of rebuilding after being devastated by war and plague. The rebuilding effort is led by Kevan Lannister, who is attempting to restore order to the city and the realm as a whole.

Our Review

A Feast for Crows is yet another fantastic addition to George R.R. Martin’s epic fantasy series, A Song of Ice and Fire. The book continues the beloved complex and multifaceted story that began in the first three books, and expands on the political and personal struggles of the characters introduced in the series.

One of the cornerstones of the novels is the depth and complexity of the characters. Martin is known for his ability to create fully-realized, three-dimensional characters, and A Feast for Crows is no exception. The main characters are believable and realistic. They have their own complex flaws and weaknesses. Even the secondary characters are well-developed and add significant depth to the story. The character development in this book is especially interesting to follow, as we see the characters grappling with their own personal demons and making difficult choices that shape the course of the story.

Overall, this novel is an amazing addition to the series. It’s a strong follow-up from the legendary A Storm of Swords, which presented the legendary Red Wedding.

Our rating: ★★★★★

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct order of Game of Thrones Books?

The branching canons and miscellanies of genre fiction are commonplace to some fans but the unusual running order of A Song of Ice and Fire has been known to put off newcomers to the series. Have no fear though, the publishing order of the books is still the most sensible reading order.

Here are all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series in (publishing) order:

1. A Game of Thrones (1996)
2. A Clash of Kings (1999)
3. A Storm of Swords (2000)
4. A Feast for Crows (2005)
5. A Dance with Dragons (2011)
6. The Winds of Winter (unreleased)
7. A Dream of Spring (unreleased)

What is A Feast for Crows about?

A Feast for Crows follows a number of different storylines set in the fantasy world of Westeros. The book explores the continuing struggles of our returning character Cersei Lannister, who has taken control of the Iron Throne following the death of her husband, King Robert. It also follows the journey of Brienne of Tarth, who is searching for Sansa Stark, who had escaped shortly after the Red Wedding, and the adventures of Samwell Tarly and Gilly, who are traveling to the Citadel in Oldtown.

Is A Feast for Crows suitable for all ages?

As with all books in this series, this novel has some pretty gruesome scenes and some very heavy topics. The books are for mature audiences.

How long is A Feast For Crows?

Depending on publication, the book is around 860 pages, spanning across 72 chapters.

What is the best Game of Thrones book?

Call us biased, but the Red Wedding was too iconic not to bring Storm of Swords to the top of the list!

What seasons does A Feast For Crows follow?

The fifth season of Game of Thrones largely followsA Feast for Crows. Although, some elements carried over into the sixth season.

Have you read the epic fantasy series a song of ice and fire book four? Let us know!

The post A Feast For Crows: The Fourth Installment in The GoT Series appeared first on ReignOfReads.

With the legendary The Red Wedding scene being contained in the pages of this book, this following novel is full of gore, betrayal and gruesome treason. It’s regarded as one of the best books in the series, so be sure to read ahead to catch up on everything you need to know.

Just a warning, there will be spoilers ahead!

A Storm of Swords

Of the five contenders for power, one is dead, another in disfavor, and still the wars rage as violently as ever, as alliances are made and broken. Joffrey, of House Lannister, sits on the Iron Throne, the uneasy ruler of the land of the Seven Kingdoms. His most bitter rival, Lord Stannis, stands defeated and disgraced, the victim of the jealous sorceress who holds him in her evil thrall. But young Robb, of House Stark, still rules the North from the fortress of Riverrun. Robb plots against his despised Lannister enemies, even as they hold his sister hostage at King’s Landing, the seat of the Iron Throne. Meanwhile, making her way across a blood-drenched continent is the exiled queen, Daenerys, mistress of the only three dragons still left in the world. . . .

But as opposing forces maneuver for the final titanic showdown, an army of barbaric wildlings arrives from the outermost line of civilization. In their vanguard is a horde of mythical Others–a supernatural army of the living dead whose animated corpses are unstoppable. As the future of the land hangs in the balance, no one will rest until the Seven Kingdoms have exploded in a veritable storm of swords. . . .

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“Why ask for truth when you close your ears to it? “

George R.R. Martin, A Storm of Swords

Our Overview

The Riverlands

Catelyn Stark released Jaime Lannister in order to secure the release of her daughters, Sansa and Arya. Robb reveals that he has married Jeyne Westerling, violating his promise to be wed to a daughter of House Frey.

Jaime and Brienna are captured by mercenaries working for Roose Bolton, who is plotting to undermine Robb to become Warden of the North. After a short scuffle, Bolton releases Jaime and Brienne and they travel to King’s Landing.

Arya Stark, who is travelling in the Riverlands, is taken by the Brotherhood Without Banners. The group captures Joffrey’s former bodyguard and offers him trial by combat for his crimes. The Hound, who killed Beric before he was resurrected, kidnaps Arya and plans to ransom her.

Robb needs the support of the Freys. The Freys propose a new wedding between Catelyn’s brother Edmure Tully (lord of the Riverlands) to compensate for Robb breaking the marriage agreement. At the wedding, the Boltons and Freys turn on the Starks. Robb and Catelyn are killed in the Red Wedding.

Arya and the Hound witness and escape the massacre. The Hound is wounded and Ayra escapes.

King’s Landing, Dragonstone, and the Eyrie

Davos attempts to assassinate Stannis’ advisor. He blames her for Stannis’ defeat in his prior assault on King’s Landing. Davos is imprisoned but Stannis releases him and he is then appointed Hand of the King. Melisandre curses three rival Kings. Balon Greyjoy’s death is reported shortly after.

King’s Landing welcomes new allies, the Tyrells. King Joffrey sets aside his betrothal to Sansa Stark for Margaery Tyrell. The Hand of the King, Tywin Lannister, asks Sansa to marry Tyrion to enable Lannister to hold control of the North, but Tyrion refuses.

During the wedding feast, Joffrey is poisoned and dies. Tyrion is accused and is arrested. Sansa escapes.

After the Three Kings die, Davos discovers a request by the Night’s Watch for aid against Mance Rayder. Stannis prepares to execute Davos for treason but changes his mind.

The spymaster Varys and Tyrion’s lover testify falsely against Tyrion at his trial. Tyrion is sentenced to death.

Upon returning to King’s Landing, Jaime gives Brienne a sword and sends her to find Arya and Sansa and bring them home. Jaime refuses to believe that Tyrion killed Joffrey and helps free him from prison. Jamie reveals that Tyrion’s first wife was not a prostitute as he had been told, and genuinely loved Tyrion. Tyrion kills both Shae and Tywin before fleeing Westeros.

At the Eyrie, Sansa is disguised as a daughter of Littlefinger. Lysa reveals that Littlefinger had convinced her to poison Jon, and to pin the blame on the Lannisters. Littlefinger, after a fight between Sansa and Lysa, kills Lysa.

The North

The Night’s Watch is attacked. Some of the Watch mutiny and kill Mormont, but Sam escapes with the help of a wilding girl.

Robb’s brother Bran are guided north by Bran’s dreams. At the Wall, Sam guides them and returns to the headquarters at Castle Black. He swears to keep Bran’s survival secret.

Jon, on a mission to infiltrate the wildings, convinces Mance that he deserted the Night’s Watch. Jon escapes and returns to Castle Black where he repels several assaults from the wildings. He is then falsely accused of treachery. Stannis’ army arrives while he is talking to Mance, and Mance is imprisoned. Stannis offers to make Jon Lord of Winterfell, but he declines and is elected as Night Watch’s new Lord Commander.

Slaver’s Bay

Daenerys Targaryen learns that slave armies can be bought in Slaver’s Bay. Daenerys trades her dragon for armies, and upon the exchange, she orders the dragon to turn on the slave traders. She frees the slaves and they join her army.

Alongside her army, Daenerys conquers the slaver cities. Darnery’s has the city’s rulers put to death. One of her traitors asks for forgiveness and becomes Lord Commander of her Queensguard, while the other traitor is banished.

Our Review

Every one of these books as managed to completely captivate us. There’s no way to predict what is going to happen in A Storm of Swords, and it takes countless turns and unexpected paths.

While the second book paved the way for multiple kings hoping to rise to the Iron Throne, this book brings the harsh reality crashing down. The power players in A Storm of Swords are ever-changing through treason, murder, treason, and more.

Now more than ever, Martin proves to us that there are no ‘bad’ or ‘good’ characters in the series. My feelings for characters changed throughout the novel.

The Red Wedding is one of the most famous scenes in Game of Thrones, and for good reason! Characters you love will die, and it is gruesome and brutal.

A Storm of Swords may be one of the most pivotal novels in the series, and we loved every second of it.

Our rating: ★★★★★

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct order of Game of Thrones Books?

The branching canons and miscellanies of genre fiction are commonplace to some fans but the unusual running order of A Song of Ice and Fire has been known to put off newcomers to the series. Have no fear though, the publishing order of the books is still the most sensible reading order.

Here are all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series in (publishing) order:

1. A Game of Thrones (1996)
2. A Clash of Kings (1999)
3. A Storm of Swords (2000)
4. A Feast for Crows (2005)
5. A Dance with Dragons (2011)
6. The Winds of Winter (unreleased)
7. A Dream of Spring (unreleased)

How many chapters is A Storm of Swords?

A Storm of Swords has 78 chapters and an epilogue.

How long is A Storm of Swords?

It will depend on publication, but A Storm Of Swords is around 1008 pages.

Why is there 2 books for A Storm of Swords?

In certain publications, the publishers noted that there was too many stories and characters to fit nearly into one binding, so the decision came to split the novel into two books.

What is the best Game of Thrones book?

Call us biased, but the Red Wedding was too iconic not to bring Storm of Swords to the top of the list!

What seasons does A Storm of Swords follow?

The third season of Game Of Thrones roughly follows the plot of A Storm of Swords.

Have you read the second novel behind the acclaimed TV Series? Let us know!

The post A Storm of Swords: All You Need To Know About the Epic Fantasy appeared first on ReignOfReads.

Unless you’re living under a rock, you’ve heard about this epic tale. While its hype and the sheer amount of books in the series may be daunting, we’ll take you through this novel in an easy-to-follow and approachable way for all the beginners out there.

Just a warning, there will be spoilers ahead!

A Clash of Kings

A comet the color of blood and flame cuts across the sky. And from the ancient citadel of Dragonstone to the forbidding shores of Winterfell, chaos reigns. Six factions struggle for control of a divided land and the Iron Throne of the Seven Kingdoms, preparing to stake their claims through tempest, turmoil, and war. It is a tale in which brother plots against brother and the dead rise to walk in the night. Here a princess masquerades as an orphan boy; a knight of the mind prepares a poison for a treacherous sorceress; and wild men descend from the Mountains of the Moon to ravage the countryside. Against a backdrop of incest and fratricide, alchemy and murder, victory may go to the men and women possessed of the coldest steel . . . and the coldest hearts. For when kings clash, the whole land trembles. 

A Clash of Kings is the second of seven planned novels in A Song of Ice and Fire, an epic fantasy series by American author George R. R. Martin.

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“There’s no shame in fear, my father told me, what matters is how we face it.”

George R.R. Martin, A Clash of Kings

Our Overview

A Clash of Kings begins with a comet flying across the sky.

We begin again with Daenerys Targaryen who wants to claim the Iron Throne and rule all of Westeros and its seven kingdoms. However, in Westeros, the people are more concerned of rising civil war.

Rightful king, Robert Baratheon, is dead, and his sons (Joffrey, Renly, and Stannis) are fighting to claim it. With the support of the high priestess, Stannis is crowned king and makes Renly his heir, with his bodyguard, Brienne Of Tarth at his side.

However, Renly plans to steal the throne. Hearing this news, Stannis arranged Renly’s execution. Renly is killed, and Stannis is king. Joffrey wants the throne, but knows he is too young yet, so he bides his time and hashes out some plans.

The northern territories fight. Robb Stark is declared their new king. Another man, however, claims a part of the north for himself. The north is a fiercely independent place; they ask for no help and care not for what is happening on the Iron Throne.

The Queen Regent, Cersei, takes control of matters in the South. Her brother, Tyrion, is promoted to Hand of the King. Joffrey is then installed as king over Stannish, and Cersei plans to manipulate the young boy king with Tyrion’s help. Tyrion successfully arranged various noble marriages to cement alliances, and now the Lannisters secure the Iron Throne forever.

The Stark loyalists attack Winterfell because they want revenge for what they believe to be murders of some of the Stark family. For a time, it is unclear who rules Winterfell.

The Stark family know that it is in the north’s best interest to escape. Robb holds the line while others escape before drawing the Lannisters into numerous battles, to which he triumphs. Meanwhile his younger brother Bran Stark rules in his absence. And Robb’s sister, Arya, poses as a boy and learns to fight. Robb sends his friend, Theon Greyjoy to negotiate an alliance between the Iron Islands and the North but he is betrayed by Theon.

Daenarys has a group of loyal followers. She plans to use the followers and her baby dragons to convince more people to follow her. Daenerys doesn’t like that others are wanting her dragons to themselves, so she burns down various places. This earns her a reputation and increases her following, even if out of fear.

Beyond the walls of Winterfell, trouble brews. Wildings attack the fortress. Jon Snow leads the fight in their defence. As if this wild tribe wasn’t enough, a dangerous king with magical allies plan to attack Winterfell, and the time before he reaches the wall is only ticking.

Stannis disappears, the Lannister family confront the Starks in a gruesome battle. The Lannister palace falls and everyone is forced to flee.

Our Review

A Clash of Kings was a brilliant sequel that brought the spotlight of the series to one of the most well-written characters in fantasy: Tyrion Lannister.

Petrik, Goodreads User

Once again we tip off our hats to George R.R Martin, we never seem to be able to choose who to root for. Initially, we know that the defender is a cruel king, but the more I read the more I thought that the attackers also wouldn’t be a good king. We think not only about the king himself and who may be deserving of such a role, but also of the subjects whose lives may be in danger as a result.

Those who have watched the hit HBO series know all too well that this series is not one for the faint of heart. There are few happy endings to be found here. The gritty reality is one that mirrors medieval times rather than a typical fantasy series. We see illusions of happy times, but in the background there is always something dark and foreboding approaching.

The scope of the plot is ever-expanding. It’s a great feat to have such a wide scope of a novel and still not feel like any of the plots are unnecessary. Somehow, it’s surprisingly not difficult to keep track of the plot and the huge range of characters.

There may be some perspectives I preferred reading over others, but I was never tempted to skip chapters or breeze over the page.

Overall, this is an outstanding follow-up to A Game of Thrones.

Our rating: ★★★★☆

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct order of Game of Thrones Books?

The branching canons and miscellanies of genre fiction are commonplace to some fans but the unusual running order of A Song of Ice and Fire has been known to put off newcomers to the series. Have no fear though, the publishing order of the books is still the most sensible reading order.

Here are all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series in (publishing) order:

1. A Game of Thrones (1996)
2. A Clash of Kings (1999)
3. A Storm of Swords (2000)
4. A Feast for Crows (2005)
5. A Dance with Dragons (2011)
6. The Winds of Winter (unreleased)
7. A Dream of Spring (unreleased)

What is the theme of A Clash of Kings?

Through the central civil war plot of the novel, Martin explores the chaotic nature of warfare, showing that it destroys not only people and objects, but knowledge and certainty.

Is A Clash of Kings Game of Thrones?

Yes! A Clash of Kings is the second novel in the Song of Ice and Fire series, of which the HBO series Game of Thrones is based on.

How many long does it take to read A Clash of Kings?

The audiobook for A Clash Of Kings is around 37 hours. Check it out here!

How Does A Clash of Kings end?

By the novel’s end, Renly is dead, Stannis and the Greyjoys have suffered major setbacks, and the Lannisters and Starks remain the only true contenders. Note that the war doesn’t actually conclude in this novel! As with real life, war is ongoing and brutal. We barely see the war wrapping up until the third book.

What seasons does A Clash of Kings Cover?

The second season of Game Of Thrones roughly follows the plot of A Clash of Kings.

Have you read the second novel behind the acclaimed TV Series? Let us know!

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Unless you’re living under a rock, you’ve heard about this epic tale. While its hype and the sheer amount of books in the series may be daunting, we’ll take you through the novel in an easy-to-follow and approachable way for all the beginners out there. We’ll try to keep the article as spoiler-free as possible, within reason!

A Game of Thrones

Winter is coming. Such is the stern motto of House Stark, the northernmost of the fiefdoms that owe allegiance to King Robert Baratheon in far-off King’s Landing. There Eddard Stark of Winterfell rules in Robert’s name. There his family dwells in peace and comfort: his proud wife, Catelyn; his sons Robb, Brandon, and Rickon; his daughters Sansa and Arya; and his bastard son, Jon Snow. Far to the north, behind the towering Wall, lie savage Wildings and worse—unnatural things relegated to myth during the centuries-long summer, but proving all too real and all too deadly in the turning of the season.
 
Yet a more immediate threat lurks to the south, where Jon Arryn, the Hand of the King, has died under mysterious circumstances. Now Robert is riding north to Winterfell, bringing his queen, the lovely but cold Cersei, his son, the cruel, vainglorious Prince Joffrey, and the queen’s brothers Jaime and Tyrion of the powerful and wealthy House Lannister—the first a swordsman without equal, the second a dwarf whose stunted stature belies a brilliant mind. All are heading for Winterfell and a fateful encounter that will change the course of kingdoms.
 
Meanwhile, across the Narrow Sea, Prince Viserys, heir of the fallen House Targaryen, which once ruled all of Westeros, schemes to reclaim the throne with an army of barbarian Dothraki—whose loyalty he will purchase in the only coin left to him: his beautiful yet innocent sister, Daenerys.

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“Never forget what you are, for surely the world will not. Make it your strength. Then it can never be your weakness. Armour yourself in it, and it will never be used to hurt you.”

George R.R. Martin, A Game of Thrones

Our Overview

Beyond the wall, in the north of Winterfell, three men of the Night’s Watch, Gared, Waymar Royce, and Will, scout an area Will swore to contain dead men. On getting there, they discover there is no one, and believing Will is delusional, they make fun of him. However, their worst nightmare comes to life when they face monsters.

The Lord of Winterfell hears of a captured deserter who had previously abandoned his post. He takes his sons, Bran, Robb, and Jon, to deliver justice. The sons then find six direwolves who lost their mother. The decide to take the creatures as pets. Word then reaches Ned of the death of his friend, the Hand of the King. It is then known that the king, Robert Baratheon, is coming to Winterfall.

Across the sea, East of Westeros, the Targaryens live in Pentos. As the son of the mad king, Viserys promises to get back his kingdom by trading his sister, Daenerys, to a warlord.

Baratheon arrives in Winterfell with the Queen Cersei and children Joffrey, Myrcella, and Tommen. He asks for Ned to take of the position of Hand of the King, and although Ned tries and wants to refuse, he eventually accepts.

Tragedy strikes the Starks when Bran gets involved in an accident which almost kills him. With Bran unconscious, Ned leaves Winterfell with his daughters (Sansa & Arya) as Robert proposes the marriage of Joffery and Sansa.

In Pentos, Daenerys gets married to Khal Drogo. When Robert hears of his marriage, he becomes enraged.

While Catelyn watches over Bran, someone tries to murder him using a knife made from Valyrian steel, prompting Vatelyn to travel to King’s Landing to seek answers. She meets her friend, Petyr there, to which he convinces her that the Tyrion is responsible. Meanwhile, Tyrion travels to Castle Black, the Night’s Watch, to see the wall. There he meets Jon.

Jon, who had initially been denied upon his request to join the watch, realises how difficult the position is. The other boys his age are lacking in skill, so he teaches them how to fight. Ned reaches King’s Landing and holds a meeting with the council. After the meeting, Ned talks to his daughter, Arya. Upon seeing her interest in battle, he gets her a teacher.

Daenery’s, now Khaleesi, punishes her brother when he tries to harm her. She realizes that a gift given to her by the Magister of Pentos had immense power. She realises she is pregnant.

In King’s Landing, Ned begins the investigation of the death of the former Hand of the King, and uncovers a huge secret. Catelyn decides to return to Winterfell, and while staying at an inn, she meets Tyrion and has him arrested. Now a prisoner, Tyrion is tried for attempted assassination, however, he comes out as victorious.

Daenerys tries to mend her relationship with her brother, but he acts out at her and pays the ultimate price for his insolence. Ned meets Cersei and tells her he knows about her secret and tells her to leave before Robert returns. Later, Robert is revealed to be on the brink of death.

After his passing, Ned tries to rule King’s Landing, but is opposed by Cersei, who claimed the Prince Joffrey should be king. Ned is arrested.

When Daenerys tells Khal Drogo of the happenings in the west, he promises her son the throne, but in a horrible twist of events, she loses everything. Not all is lost – Daenerys becomes the dragon mother.

Robb, Ned’s son, raises an army and marches against King’s Landing when he hears of the arrest of his father. The Lannisters raise an army with Tywin as the commander. Chaos breaks out in King’s Landing. Arya escapes, but Sansa is captured. Robb captures Tywin’s first son.

With news of Ned reaching the north, Robb’s men swear their loyalty.

Our Review

A totally magnificent start to a seminal epic fantasy series. If you love watching the first season of Game of Thrones, you’re most likely going to love reading A Game of Thrones.

Petrik, Goodreads User

Martin’s work has opened our eyes to a whole different world of what fantasy writing can be, a refresh on what has been long-considered a stale genre with little new territory to explore.

Unlike the fairy-tale wonderland many fantasy books portray, George RR Martin mixes fantasy elements with a degree of gritty reality not dissimilar to that of the Middle Ages.

One of the most interesting way that Martin writes is the level of opinions knitted into each chapter. Martin has set this up where each chapter has the title of one character and the whole chapter is through their viewpoint. You get their perception of events or truths. But, if you pay attention, someone else will mention a different angle of truth. Lastly, Martin doesn’t try to tell us which person is right in their perception. He purposefully leaves it vague so that we are kept guessing.

Every character has wonders of depth and their own storyline. Few characters fall into an easy trope – none are wholly good or bad, which is why this series (upon its popularity) became a hot point of discussion in its morality for many areas of the internet. Our opinions of characters will change throughout the story, much like how our opinions on real people change.

Overall, this is the start of a worldwide recognised piece of art. With storytelling unmatched by any other, a complicated and interesting plot, and characters with depth and intrigue, this is a must-read for everyone.

Not just fantasy lovers, because the book has so much more depth to it than that. If you like a good story, you’ll like this novel.

Our rating: ★★★★★

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct order of Game of Thrones Books?

The branching canons and miscellanies of genre fiction are commonplace to some fans but the unusual running order of A Song of Ice and Fire has been known to put off newcomers to the series. Have no fear though, the publishing order of the books is still the most sensible reading order.

Here are all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series in (publishing) order:

1. A Game of Thrones (1996)
2. A Clash of Kings (1999)
3. A Storm of Swords (2000)
4. A Feast for Crows (2005)
5. A Dance with Dragons (2011)
6. The Winds of Winter (unreleased)
7. A Dream of Spring (unreleased)

Is Game of Thrones a hard book to read?

In terms of the actual writing style? No. George R.R. Martin keeps the actual writing fairly simple. However, keeping track of the huge list of characters and the new elements in a fantasy world is difficult, especially to those who haven’t read many books with a lot of world-building. It may be easier, in that case, to read alongside the show!

Is Game of Thrones book appropriate for 13 year olds?

Those who have watched the show may be surprised by this answer; but maybe! There is still violence and some parts of the book which may be a little uncomfortable, but a mature thirteen-year-old can definitely read the book. The show is a lot more suited to an adult audience.

How many hours of reading is Game of Thrones?

The audiobook sits at almost 34 hours.

Is Game of Thrones book a romance?

The book isn’t necessarily what one would consider a romance, although that isn’t to say there aren’t romances within the book – the epic politics and drama definitely take the forefront.

Have you read the first novel behind the acclaimed TV Series? Let us know!

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