Gina L. (Fanatic) reviewed on 1/18/2012 + 27 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

The first book in the "Song of Ice and Fire" series (or Game of Thrones series, as it's more commonly called.)

These are honestly some of the best books I have ever read. The amount of work the author has put into this series is mind-boggling. Every character is very well-developed and has an extensive backstory, every new place has its own history, legends, religion, customs.

The scope of the book is incredible. I'm not sure how many characters we've had point-of-view chapters from at this point, but it's more than 20. And, perhaps surprisingly, it still flows wonderfully. It would not be possible to tell a story as huge as this one without using the alternating point of view method. Every character has their own compelling story, but their chapters also serve to propel the main plot forward. You learn bits and pieces of the whole truth from every direction.

Also, I love the books because you never know what's going to happen next. Martin doesn't feel the need to fall into clichés. He's not afraid to shock you, and he's pretty good at convincing the reader that one thing is going to happen, only to do something completely different.

I strongly recommend it. However, I will issue a warning: there are some pretty graphic love scenes. Don't get it for your 13 year old. Consider it R-rated.

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