Okay, first let me share my thoughts on epic fantasy. Generally speaking, I have a fondness for it. There are certain epic fantasies that I hold dear. There are those multi-volume books that I keep close by, just in case the urge to re-read them strikes, or in some cases, even re-re-re-re-re-read them. However, there are also others that start off strong but then gradually lose their charm, or in some cases, completely fizzle out. For instance, I adored the first six volumes of Jordan's Wheel of Time. I still believe it had the potential to be one of the all-time great epics, but in my view, it went downhill badly. And although Brandon Sanderson is finishing it, for me, it will never quite regain its former glory.

Now, let's turn our attention to A Song of Ice and Fire. The series began in a believable manner and managed to draw me, along with countless others, into its captivating story. I followed it through the second volume, but for me, the initial excitement was already starting to wane. Then came volume three, A Storm of Swords. I held onto the hope that things would start to come together, and to some extent, a couple of things did, which is why I gave it 2 stars instead of 1. Overall, however, I was greatly disappointed. With the numerous books waiting for me to read, I just couldn't bring myself to think highly of it.

I suppose my lack of enthusiasm for the story is compounded by the fact that I really don't like more than a couple of the main characters. Jon and maybe Arya are the exceptions. I have to watch them endure various forms of hell as the entire cast of characters plots, plans, and schemes to kill one another and come out on top of the whole messy situation. As the threats from the north loom large, I couldn't care less if they wiped out the entire disreputable, worthless, lying, murderous, incestuous lot of them. This fantasy world seems to be run by the same kind of people who always manage to get into positions of power and stay there.

Maybe the dragons will return and help devour them all? That would be an interesting turn of events. I found myself constantly walking away from this book and putting off coming back to it. When I start to delay picking up a novel, it's usually a sign that it's time to move on. I skimmed and skipped my way through it just to get it over with, and I probably won't continue with the series. I know that many people love this series, and if you do, that's great. I'm happy for you. As for me, these books are going straight into my "sell or trade at the used book store" bag. It barely escapes getting a 1-star rating.

4.5⭐️

This review is going to be a long one. I hope you're ready. First of all, I must say that this book is the most impactful among the ones I've read so far. I have mixed feelings about this series. I really enjoyed reading it. The worldbuilding and politics are excellent. However, there are many problematic aspects.

The way GRRM doesn't admit rape in his works is a major issue. How could a 13-year-old girl enjoy being brutally raped by a man in his 40s? It's simply not possible. When an older character tries to seduce a younger one and the younger one seems to enjoy it or softly refuses while the older one sexually assaults them, it's not okay, especially when it involves a creepy old man and a little girl. GRRM needs to admit that non-consensual sexual touching is rape, not an expression of feelings.

Some character relationships are more telling than showing. For example, I don't understand how Daenerys went from a quiet 13-year-old girl afraid of her own brother to a 14-year-old queen who isn't afraid of anything and is going to save the world and take her throne. Her motivation wasn't well portrayed for me, and she doesn't have a deep personality compared to other characters. Her chapters are also among the most boring parts of the book.

Another example is Jon and Ygritte. I couldn't understand where their "love" came from. They just slept together a few times and then magically they love each other. Also, Jon's behavior in bed was out of character. He was so shy about girls at 13-14, but at 15 he's suddenly a master of dirty talk.

The Red Wedding was too short and underwhelming in the book compared to the show. In the show, we saw every emotion of Rob and Catelyn, and their last glances at each other were very powerful.

Now, let's talk about what I loved in this book. The politics are amazing. They are all interconnected and have consequences. One small action in one part of the world can change something in another part. For example, Brandon saving Jon and helping him escape in the body of his direwolf, or Stannis and his leeches that predicted the deaths of three characters. I also love how characters talk about the past and have different opinions about it. It gives us a better understanding of the characters and the world.

GRRM's use of miscommunication in the plot is brilliant. It's not just stupid misunderstandings, but characters deliberately not telling the full truth to each other to take advantage of a situation. This miscommunication leads to more lies and a never-ending circle of truth and falsehood.

Although I'm not happy with how some characters were written, there are others whose development was excellent. Jaime is a great example. He lost his hand, which made him reevaluate his entire life. He's no longer the ruthless knight he thought he was. Cersei and Brienne also have interesting character arcs. They both face the same problem of being women in a male-dominated world, but they try to overcome it in different ways.

Despite all the flaws, I still like this book. I hope GRRM doesn't forget about these characters in the later books. The second character development I want to mention is Tyrion's. His regression is sad. He's lost everything he had, and now he's angry and wants to show the world what a monster he can be. I also hope Little Finger dies soon. He's responsible for so much bad in the series. Theon's situation is scary, and I hope he gets some kind of redemption. Sansa deserves better, and the epilogue with Catelyn gave me chills. Sandor Clegane is still my crush, and I love it when he speaks.

(A) 88% | Extraordinary

Notes: This work is truly a tour de force of What the F’s. It is filled to the brim with blighted beddings that create a sense of chaos and disorder. The horrid japes add an element of dark humor, making the story both entertaining and slightly disturbing. The abrupt escapes keep the reader on the edge of their seat, wondering what will happen next. And let's not forget the bloody awful weddings, which are a sight to behold. Overall, this is a truly remarkable piece of work that will leave you with a lasting impression.

Freaking awesome re-read!

**OKAY, SPOILERS FOR THOSE THAT HAVEN'T READ IT YET**

Reading this was crazy because I kept looking to see if I had read it before! I thought, "Why is so much of this familiar?" Then I thought, "Oh yeah, stupid, you own and have watched all of the current shows!" <--- I mean duh!

I was initially going to give this one 4 stars because it's the one where they kill more of the Starks and the wolf, and I wanted to go in, turn into my own dragon and burn them all down!

But then...

THIS ↓

Oh happy day! Oh happy day! What joy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ❤

I love so many people on the show and in the books. But my favorites are:

1) Jon ❤

2) Tyrion

3) Arya

4) Daenerys

5) Brienne

6) Sam

7) Sansa

In no particular order because I tried that one already.

In the book, there were certain scenes I liked better than in the shows. I love both the shows and the books so far. But in this book, there were more parts with dialogue that I really enjoyed. My favorite in this book were the scenes between Brienne and Jaime. I know, you didn't see that coming right? I mean, you would think it would have been all the parts about Jon since he's my favorite. But nope. I liked his parts better in the show, and no, it's not because I can look at him in the show. Although... nevermind.

I just felt like there was so much more to Brienne and Jaime's time together in the book. I wished he would have quit calling her ugly and such though. Jerk, but they did seem to be friends of a sort at the end of their time, and I liked that.

The things you miss in any book is the commentary in someone's head. Of course, some I would rather not read about. But I really loved the parts where we could read Tyrion's thoughts about Sansa. They were sweet and true and sad in many ways.

Overall, I enjoyed the book because of the parts with Joffrey dying. Bwhahahahaahahahahahahah! And the parts with Brienne and Jaime. I loved all of my other characters' parts, but these were the highlight moments for me.

Of course, you know when you get rid of one evil b•stard, along comes another one!

MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List

Three kings are vying for the throne and King Joffrey's wedding day is drawing near. Can he manage to hold onto the throne with Robb Stark and Stannis Baratheon constantly breathing down his neck?

Yes, that's a rather insufficient summary, but it doesn't give away too many spoilers either.

Here we are, at the third installment of Weddings, Beddings, and Beheadings, and it's my favorite one so far. In fact, I was even considering downgrading the others to 4's just to emphasize how great I think this one is. Martin really outdid himself this time.

Firstly, there were quite a number of deaths in this installment. I never expected Robb Stark to meet his end in such a way. However, Tywin and Joffrey more than deserved what they got. The Red Wedding was truly astonishing, as was the trial by combat to determine Tyrion's fate. Speaking of Tyrion, his wedding to Sansa was also quite unexpected. I'm still not sure where things will go with Davos Seaworth, but I'm already eager to find out.

Jon Snow remained my favorite character. From his time with the wildlings to his defense of the Wall, his imprisonment, and eventual election as commander of the Night's Watch, he has been a captivating figure. The possibility of Snow becoming Lord of Winterfell is a fascinating one, and I can't wait to see how it all plays out.

Another plotline that I'm really enjoying is that of Arya and the Hound. The Hound could easily have been a one-dimensional villain, but he is actually a surprisingly complex character. And Arya is shockingly tough for a preteen.

I'm also surprised that I've come to like Jaime Lannister. He's an arrogant and unapologetic jerk, and I love him for it. I would definitely read an entire book about Jaime's adventures.

And what about Petyr Baelish? What a scumbag!

I'm giving this book five stars with an exclamation point next to it. After a short break, I'll be devouring the two remaining volumes.

This installment is by far the best in the series.

I find myself completely immersed in this enchanting fantasy world and simply cannot get enough of it.

The vivid descriptions and captivating storylines draw me in from the very beginning.

Every character is unique and well-developed, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative.

The world-building is truly remarkable, with its own set of rules, magic systems, and diverse landscapes.

I love how the author has created a place that feels both familiar and yet completely foreign at the same time.

It's a world that I can't wait to explore further with each new book in the series.

I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves fantasy and is looking for an exciting and engaging read.

You won't be disappointed!

  




Okay, not really. There's still a shit-ton more pages after this. In fact, it seems like the end is nowhere in sight. The amount of content that lies ahead is truly overwhelming. It's as if one has embarked on an endless journey through a vast literary landscape. Each page holds the promise of new information, new ideas, and new adventures. But with so many pages remaining, it can also be a bit daunting. One might wonder how long it will take to reach the end and what awaits them there. Will it be a satisfying conclusion or just more of the same? Only time will tell as the reader continues to plow through this seemingly never-ending tome.

Ok, so I'm 3 books into this series, which amounts to a whopping 2972 pages. Let's take a closer look at the Starks.

Eddard was once a lord, but now he is unfortunately dead.

Catelyn was a lordly lady with a loving and honorable husband and 5 beautiful children. However, now she is a widow, believing all her kids are dead (though that's not entirely true), and she herself is also dead. To make matters worse, she's a zombie.

Sansa was an annoying, helpless, and spoiled preteen. Now, everyone she's ever loved is dead, yet she remains annoying and helpless despite all the hardships.

Arya was an endearing highborn tomboy. Now, she's a murderous urchin, but still manages to retain her endearing qualities.

Jon was a bastard, and now he's a lord, but the fact that he's a bastard still lingers.

Rob was a rather nondescript dude, and now he's dead.

Bran was a little boy with two eyes who loved to climb. Now, he's a slightly older boy with three eyes, hanging out with frog-eaters, mind-melding with animals, and seeking lessons from another three-eyed mind melder who might be undead.

Rickon was just a side note and remains so.

I keep pondering whether these books are sexist or not. This usually comes down to the question of whether female characters have agency. I'm not sure if that's a fair test of gender bias, but that's where my thoughts lead. It's true that most female characters rarely make decisions that significantly influence the narrative, but the same can be said for the males. Some exceptions include Arya escaping Harrenhall, Catelyn freeing Jaime, and Danaerys freeing slaves. Cersei, despite being one of the most willfull women in the story and vocal about gender bias in her society, seems to have little real power. She wanted to spare Eddard, but he ended up dead. She wanted to save her kids, but Joffrey ended up dead. She wants to marry her brother, but her dad keeps marrying her off for political reasons.

Another way to look at this issue might be to ask if the books sanction male chauvinism. I don't think one can read these books and believe that men are inherently superior to women, as there are plenty of idiotic men and capable women. As I mentioned in a previous review, I do think these books objectify women more than men, which is at least distinctly gynophilic (a new word I just looked up!). This probably allows some hetero men and lesbians to indulge in fantasies that many women might find demeaning. That being said, as a heterosexual guy, I find most of the sex in these books to be more clumsy than arousing. However, I doubt Martin did this intentionally. I guess "clumsy" could be considered arousing if you have a strange fetish for clumsiness. Let's just stop discussing this.

Anyway, these are all my thoughts on the series. This particular book was neither better nor worse than the previous ones, which means it still had me staying up reading until 2 am most nights. I do wish Martin would include a few more comic relief characters like Dolorous Ed. Jaime and Brienne provided a few laughs. More of that would be great.

I'm finding one of the most amusing aspects of this series to be the moments when I have to stop and wonder if a sentence implies a fatality. For example, "..and then a boulder fell on him." Did he mention how big the boulder was? Exactly where did it hit him, and who is "him" referring to? It's quite entertaining. Also, am I the only one who looks ahead at chapter titles to see if a character really died? I know, it's cheating.

I have a tradition of reading one book from the Game of Thrones series after each new season, gradually immersing myself in the source material. Every time I hesitate because it's really a pain to read, and I don't want to get stuck on a huge tome. But in the end, I give in, pick up the relevant book in no time, and my fingers are eager to grab the next novel right away. J. R. R. Martin is truly an amazing writer, and after the disappointing finale of the TV series, the qualities of his story, especially his ability to create complex and intriguing heroes, shine even more.

The story initially progresses at a certain pace, but as it reaches around the halfway point, it starts to drag a little (or perhaps a lot).

This slowdown can be a bit of a deterrent, causing the reader to feel a bit impatient. However, it is important to persevere because the last third of the book truly makes it all worthwhile.

During this final section, the plot thickens, the characters develop in more profound ways, and the story takes unexpected turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat.

The author manages to bring everything together in a satisfying conclusion that makes the earlier lulls in the narrative seem almost insignificant.

Overall, while the middle portion may test the reader's patience, the payoff in the last third of the book is well worth the wait.

GRRM is truly a genius.

I am in awe of how everything in his works has parallels and symbolism, which really makes one think deeply overall.

I can fully understand why it has taken him such a long time to write the last two books. When creating something as epic as this, one simply cannot end it poorly. (Just look at the last two seasons of Game of Thrones.)

Anyway, this book takes a different turn from what was presented in the show. The ending introduces a plot that the show didn't even touch upon.

Therefore, I am extremely excited to see where this story will lead. It's like opening a door to a whole new world of possibilities, and I can't wait to embark on this literary journey and discover the hidden treasures that lie within the pages of GRRM's masterpiece.

Spoilers

Loved:

- The Red Wedding was an absolute masterpiece. Despite knowing the outcome, it still held me on the edge of my seat, making for an incredibly intense and gripping read.

- The Purple Wedding was equally enjoyable. While Joffrey's death could have been more brutal and violent to match the horror of what happened to Robb and Oberyn, it was still a satisfying moment.

- Hodor, with his single-word vocabulary, was a surprisingly entertaining character. His simplicity and loyalty added a unique charm to the story.

- The near-meetings of Bran and Jon, as well as Arya and her family, were both heart-wrenching and brilliant. The way these storylines intertwined was masterfully done.

- Arya's dreams of her direwolf and wolf pack were exciting. I can't wait to see if she reunites with Nymeria and uses her pack to exact revenge on her enemies.

- The relationship between Arya and the Hound was full of banter and antagonism, making it a joy to read. Their dynamic added a layer of complexity to both characters.

- Jaime and Brienne's evolving friendship was a highlight. Watching their relationship transform from one of captivity and mistrust to one of mutual respect and support was truly rewarding.

- Sansa's escape from King's Landing was a welcome development. Although she found herself in a new and uncertain situation, at least she was away from the Lannisters who had caused her so much pain.

- Queen Selyse's fanatical devotion to R'hllor and Melisandre was both hilarious and fascinating. Her extreme beliefs added an element of absurdity to the story.

- Dany's acquisition of the Unsullied army and her takeover of Meereen were significant moments. It was the first time she truly showed the potential to be a great ruler.

- Ygritte's constant refrain of "You know nothing, Jon Snow" was both endearing and funny. Even in her final moments, those words had an impact.

- Catelyn's revenge on the Freys was satisfying. I hope she continues to exact her vengeance and wipes out the entire Frey family.

- Oberyn's death was brutal but well-deserved. His grandstanding and overconfidence ultimately led to his downfall.

- The rich history, mythology, and legends that were woven into the story added depth and texture. Old Nan's tales to Bran were particularly enchanting.

Disliked:

- Jon's POV was often dull, especially when he wasn't interacting with Ygritte or Sam. His character seemed to lack personality and agency at times.

- Tyrion's self-pity was grating. He constantly whined about his lot in life, despite having more advantages than most. His one-liners were the only redeeming quality.

- The 'good' characters seemed to be nothing but eternal victims, constantly suffering and never getting a break. It was depressing to see the Starks endure so much pain and hardship.

- Bran's POV ending so abruptly was disappointing. I wanted to see more of his journey and his meeting with Coldhands before moving on to the next part of the story.

- Some parts of the book were slow-moving and overly descriptive, which made it a bit of a slog to get through at times.

All in all, while the book was extremely long and had its share of flaws, the twists and turns, the rich world-building, and the complex relationships and characters more than made up for the slow and boring parts. It was a captivating and unforgettable read that left me eager for more.