A world of breathtaking stories and characters of unfathomable depth — a world you can completely lose yourself in. A world that has it all.
(This blog may include spoilers! The first paragraph is spoiler-free.)
The Story
It all begins in the icy North of Westeros, where two old friends reunite. But as certain events unfold, chaos soon follows. Suspicion rises, alliances are forged, and the Game for the Iron Throne begins.
Now danger lurks everywhere as the great houses of Westeros go to war. Not to forget the rise of the seemingly last Targaryen in the East. Beyond the Wall, the dead begin to stir again — driven by ancient powers.
The War of the Five Kings brings bloodshed; winter comes knocking once more, and unexpected events are about to unfold. Who will conquer the Seven Kingdoms in the end?
The Characters
In my opinion, the way George R. R. Martin writes such a vast number of characters is unmatched in the fantasy world. He truly poured his heart into them.
Take Tyrion Lannister, for example. I know he’s a fan favorite, but he’s just so brilliantly written — cunning, sharp-tongued, a mastermind, and an outcast. In his own unique way, he influences major events — first as Hand of the King, and later when he kills his father, one of the most powerful men in the realm.
Like Tywin, Littlefinger (Petyr Baelish) was also one of the most dangerous men in Westeros. He basically started the war, has no sense of loyalty except to himself, and helped plot Joffrey’s death. Not to forget how he shaped Sansa, scheming to make her Lady of Winterfell and the Vale of Arryn.
There are far too many incredible characters to name them all here, but I have to mention Varys, Jon Snow, Daenerys, and many others who make this saga unforgettable.
My Favourite Parts of the Books
First, the ending of A Game of Thrones, the very first book: Daenerys stepping into the pyre and hatching her dragons. It’s such a jaw-dropping, powerful moment — written so vividly you feel like you’re standing right there.
Then, of course, the Red Wedding — one of the most shocking and pivotal moments in the entire series. While reading, I never expected anything that brutal to happen. My eyes were literally wide open in disbelief the whole time.
One of the most satisfying scenes across all five books was Joffrey’s death — him choking at his own wedding, Cersei in rage and tears, and Sansa finally managing to escape. Pure satisfaction.
And finally, the battle at Castle Black. Jon Snow proves himself to be a capable commander, defeating the massive wildling army with strategic brilliance (and, of course, Stannis’ timely help).
The Television Series
If you leave out the last season, the TV show is surely one of the greatest of all time. Still, there are aspects I didn’t like as much, or where I preferred the book version.
At times, the show felt a bit rushed, whereas the books explained everything in such beautiful detail. I understand the producers had to cut certain storylines due to time constraints, but some major points were left out — like Varys switching Aegon Targaryen with another baby to save the true heir to the throne.
I also didn’t like that Sansa was married off to Ramsay. It would have made more sense for Littlefinger to keep her in the Vale, considering his love for her.
And then there’s the highly criticized ending. Daenerys going mad did make sense narratively, but perhaps not to that extreme. I also didn’t like Bran becoming king and would have preferred the Night King’s story to last longer — or even end in victory. But let’s see how George R. R. Martin decides to end his masterpiece.
The Wait for the Last Two Books
While it’s frustrating that the final two books are still unpublished, I do believe they’ll be released eventually. Maybe they’re already finished, and Martin is just waiting to build even more anticipation.
One thing is certain: when we finally get them, he’ll surprise us with an unexpected and jaw-dropping ending — one worthy of a fantasy saga like A Song of Ice and Fire.
Recommendation
I can highly recommend the following product: A Song of Ice and Fire Leather-Bound Collection.
Each book features a beautiful leather cover and includes a different map of the world of Westeros. There’s also a list of the major houses with every current and past member. A true gem for every fan.
What do you think of the saga? Share your thoughts below!
