My review of:

A Game of Thrones - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

A Clash of Kings - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

Wikipedia:

A Storm of Swords is the third of seven planned novels in A Song of Ice and Fire, a fantasy series by American author George R. R. Martin. It was first published on August 8, 2000, in the United Kingdom, with a United States edition following in November 2000. Its publication was preceded by a novella called Path of the Dragon, which collects some of the Daenerys Targaryen chapters from the novel into a single book.

A Storm of Swords picks up the story slightly before the end of its predecessor, A Clash of Kings. The Seven Kingdoms of Westeros are still in the grip of the War of the Five Kings. Joffrey Baratheon and his uncle Stannis Baratheon compete for the Iron Throne. Meanwhile, Robb Stark of the North and Balon Greyjoy of the Iron Islands declare their independence. A large host of wildlings approach the Wall under the leadership of Mance Rayder. And Daenerys Targaryen sails west, planning to retake her father's throne.

Goodreads:

Here is the third volume in George R. R. Martin’s magnificent cycle of novels. This series is a genuine masterpiece of modern fantasy. Of the five contenders for power, one is dead, another in disfavor, and the wars still rage. Joffrey sits on the Iron Throne. His rival Stannis is defeated. Young Robb rules the North. The exiled queen Daenerys makes her way across a blood-drenched continent. And as opposing forces maneuver, an army of wildlings arrives, accompanied by mystical Others. The future of the land hangs in the balance, and no one will rest until the Seven Kingdoms have exploded in a storm of swords.

I have read the 1200-page monster of a book, and it was truly worth it. So far, it is the best book in the series for several reasons. There is non-stop action, with 1000 twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. Jon Snow and Tyrion are two of the most beloved characters, and their storylines are particularly engaging. The last 100 pages are simply amazing. The writing style is classic dry Martin, with a pacing that is excellent, especially in the Tyrion and Jon chapters. The characters are becoming more and more complex, with Jaime also evolving very nicely. The plot is like a puzzle, with so many pieces coming together, so many questions and answers, and so many twists and surprises. The descriptions are also very good, as Martin knows how to explain and describe things vividly. Overall, I give this book 4.5 stars, and I am rounding it up to 5. Fingers crossed that TWOW will be released in 2022.

\\"A Storm of Swords\\" is, without a doubt, my favorite book within the series up to this point.

It is filled with an enormous amount of thrilling action that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat from start to finish. Additionally, the character development in this installment is truly remarkable. We get to see the characters grow and change in profound ways, which makes them even more engaging and relatable.

This book was an absolute joy to read, a rollicking good adventure that I simply couldn't put down. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-written, action-packed fantasy novel.

Some of my favorite quotes from the book include: \\"Old stories are like old friends, she used to say. You have to visit them from time to time.\\" This quote beautifully captures the importance of looking back and learning from the past.

Another great quote is: \\"When you know what a man wants you know who he is, and how to move him.\\" It highlights the power of understanding someone's desires and motivations.

Finally, the quote \\"Sometimes I think everyone is just pretending to be brave, and none of us really are. Maybe pretending is how you get brave, I don't know.\\" makes you stop and think about the nature of bravery and how we all struggle with it in our own ways.

A Storm of Swords is truly a remarkable installment in the A Song of Ice and Fire series.

The events in this book are of great significance in the overall story arc. So much has transpired, and it's astonishing to see that events from the fifth season of the TV show have already taken place.

The length of the book is both a blessing and a curse. While it allows for in-depth exploration of the characters and plot, the long chapters sometimes made it a bit of a chore to read.

Some characters, like Tyrion, just don't interest me. I find his actions and personality rather unappealing. However, I do love the Stark family and their storylines.

The Red Wedding was a heart-wrenching moment, and I was disappointed that we didn't get a reaction from every Stark afterwards.

Arya and Dany are both more complex and interesting in the books compared to the TV show.

I also enjoyed reading about Oberyn Martell, and I'm looking forward to learning more about the Martells in the following books.

Overall, I highly recommend A Storm of Swords to any fan of the series. It's a captivating read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

I can't wait to see what happens next in A Feast for Crows and A Dance of Dragons.

Conclusion: This book is a must-read for fans of Game of Thrones. It offers a deeper understanding of the characters and plot, and I'm excited to continue reading the series.

How does one go about reviewing a Song of Ice and Fire book?
This book is truly remarkable, perhaps even greater than the previous two installments. George R.R. Martin's talent for creating an intricately woven plot is simply astonishing. Not a single chapter feels the least bit dull or uninteresting. The story unfolds continuously, with the intensity and enthusiasm never waning. When I first began the series, I was a bit concerned about keeping up with the numerous perspectives. However, that worry quickly dissipated, and I became completely hooked.

This is one of the rare books where I find myself impressed even by the antagonists. Reading from their perspectives and witnessing how cunningly they strive to secure their positions in the game of thrones is truly fascinating. The way each character devises strategies to overcome difficulties and plans for the future keeps me on the edge of my seat. I firmly believe that it is impossible to grow tired of these books.
The final chapters of each character's perspective are, in their own unique ways, mind-blowing. They leave you in a state of uncertainty, wondering where the story will lead next. I often find myself longing for the next installment with an almost desperate need.
While Arya, Tyrion, and Jon remain my favorite characters, my annoyance and frustration with Sansa continue to persist.

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What can I possibly add that hasn't already been said? This series just keeps ascending to greater heights. The third installment is a veritable rollercoaster of twists and turns, too numerous to count. It takes me from the pinnacle of elation to the depths of despair and back again, sometimes within the span of just a few pages. The story gets incredibly bleak, yet also astonishingly awesome. Everyone endures horrible suffering, but in the end, some truly pivotal events unfold that I simply did not anticipate. And, boy, are there some surprising characters! I'm eagerly looking forward to the next two books, but I'm not so keen on the potential wait of another six damn years for the sixth one to be released. Get to work, George! (P.S. I say that with love)

This book delves into the motivations of some of the more, shall we say, "unsavory" characters in the series. Jaime, in particular, has been the evil asshole who killed Aerys Targaryen and pushed Bran out of a window. Not to mention his affair with his sister. He's shallow, vain, and would kill you at the slightest provocation. Then enters Brienne, the accused killer of Renly, a stubborn (and apparently extremely ugly - we're reminded of her ugliness at least a dozen times in every chapter she appears in) woman who develops the cutest frienemy relationship with Jaime. Between that and having his hand chopped off, his character undergoes some rather interesting moral and personality changes. I hate to admit it, but I kind of like him now.

Tyrion. Oh, this poor man. He not only loses his nose and practically half his face, but he's also forced into yet another sham marriage, hoping against hope that his new wife won't find him as repulsive as he knows he must look. His father and sister want him dead, and he's stripped of all the power that made his character so delightfully cheeky and smarmy in the first two books. The realm despises him, the woman he loves betrays him, and everything just crumbles around him. I just want to give the guy a hug or something. Watching him exact some well-deserved revenge at the end of the book was satisfying, to say the least.

Bran, Arya, and Sansa. None of them have any idea what the others are up to. Half of them think the other half are dead, and so on. Sansa's story in book three is agonizingly painful to read. There's a brief moment of relief when she finally escapes the clutches of the Lannisters, only to fall into the hands of someone else with (surprise, surprise) their own designs on her. Bran hasn't found the three-eyed crow yet, but he hasn't been caught by anyone and, for once, seems to be doing okay. Arya can't seem to stop getting captured by pretty much everyone she encounters, but I almost cheered when she finally got Needle back. As for the strange father-daughter relationship she has with the Hound, I kind of wish she hadn't left him to die, but I think I'm a bit more fond of him than she is.

Samwell and Davos were two characters I had difficulty getting into. Davos spends all his time trying to convince Stannis that Melisandre is evil (duh - although she does seem rather sincere in her attempts to save the world), and Samwell just annoys me to no end because all he does is whine. About everything. I'm hoping he's finally starting to grow some backbone; it seems like he might be toward the end of the book.

Daenerys was the only character who seemed to fare relatively well. Despite the usual betrayals, she emerges unscathed. Her attraction to that random slaver guy is a bit odd. Why do all the women in the series seem to have such terrible taste in men? I'm not even that fond of her character since she took off on her own, but the dragons are pretty badass. I just wish she would reach Westeros already so her story didn't seem so disconnected from what's happening in the rest of the book. But, oh wait, she's staying in Meereen now. Great. I'm also waiting for her decision to banish Jorah to come back and haunt her, as I'm sure it inevitably will.

Jon Snow. I love Jon Snow! I can't wait to see him as the commander of the Night's Watch. He totally deserves it. I'm also very happy he reunited with Ghost. If I had to read about another direwolf disappearing or dying, I was going to throw my book out the window.

The Red Wedding chapter was by far the hardest thing to read. You'd think the Starks would eventually learn to stop trusting people they know want them dead. Seriously. Catelyn is just as bad as Eddard. It's so frustrating! Although it does open the door for an interesting plot development, or at least I'm assuming it will. The final page of the book was pretty darn cool as far as that whole thing is concerned.

As usual, this was another page-turner for me, and I'll be starting on the next book right away. I need to finish this series so I can return to my normal life already.

So I know Empire is the best film in the trilogy because I've seen it a hundred times. However, choosing the best book in a series is a different matter. Unfortunately, I've only read George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire books twice, and at this point, only the first three novels. So, who can say how A Storm of Swords will be remembered?

The focus of the series becomes a bit fragmented, reflecting the chaos of the War of the Five Kings. This war has not only devastated the smallfolk but also divided the kingdom in ways not seen since about fourteen years ago, when Ned and Robert led their rebellion against the Targaryens.

A Storm of Swords offers context on the rebellion, which I always enjoy. It also impressed me with the way past events shed new light on Ned Stark. Even though Ned died two novels ago, his life is given a new focus through a series of stories. My favorite is the fairy tale that Jojen and Meera tell Bran about Lord Whent's tourney. Martin has a great talent for unusual juxtapositions. Although Ned was a strong leader, he also needed to look up to others like his older brother Brandon, his friend and king Robert, and Ser Arthur Dayne. He wasn't lonely because of his position at the top; he was lonely because he was once part of a band of noble knights, and circumstance had killed or corrupted everyone but him.

Martin adds new layers to almost every character and conflict that we thought we understood after reading A Game of Thrones and A Clash of Kings. He even introduces new viewpoint characters like Jaime Lannister. However, Martin also creates some stunning scenes that would be impressive even without introduction.

Arya's storyline continues to be a highlight. I especially enjoyed reading about her fighting beside the Hound, even though she "prayed for him to die, hundreds and hundreds of times." I will admit that I found Daenerys' plot a little dull in the first two novels, but I love how she outwits the slavers across the Narrow Sea in this book. As for Tyrion, rather than defending King's Landing against invading armies, this time he merely watches the Red Viper's "pole-vault" duel, which I think tops Stannis' attack in A Clash of Kings.

All of these moments have stayed with me since I first read A Storm of Swords in 2000. However, this time I'll take away the "return" of Lord Beric Dondarrion. His appearance is quite striking. When we last saw him, he was a gallant knight for Sansa and her friends to fantasize about. But things have changed.

So is A Storm of Swords the best? I'm still not sure, but it's a strong contender. Books take more time to tell a story than movies, but I think in another ten years, I'll be happy to read this series again as I prepare to read the final book. Perhaps then I'll be able to say with more confidence that A Storm of Swords is the best entry in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series.

A Storm of Swords (A Song of Ice and Fire #3), George R.R. Martin

A Storm of Swords is the third installment in the highly anticipated A Song of Ice and Fire series by American author George R. R. Martin. Published on August 8, 2000, this novel continues the epic tale that began in its predecessors.

The story picks up shortly before the end of A Clash of Kings. The Seven Kingdoms of Westeros are still embroiled in the War of the Five Kings. Joffrey Baratheon and Stannis Baratheon are vying for the Iron Throne, while Robb Stark of the North and Balon Greyjoy of the Iron Islands have declared their independence. The realm is in chaos, and the people suffer.
Meanwhile, a large host of wildlings, led by Mance Rayder, the self-proclaimed "King Beyond the Wall," is approaching the Wall that marks the northern border of the Seven Kingdoms. The undermanned Night's Watch is all that stands in their way.
Finally, Daenerys Targaryen, the daughter of a deposed former king and the "mother" of the world's only living dragons, is traveling west with the intention of retaking her father's throne. Her journey is filled with challenges and opportunities, and her actions will have far-reaching consequences for the future of Westeros.
A Storm of Swords is a complex and engaging novel that weaves together multiple storylines and a large cast of characters. With its vivid descriptions, political intrigue, and thrilling action, it is a must-read for fans of fantasy and epic adventure.

It's time again for A Game of Heroes and Zeroes!
spoilers ahead

In this exciting analysis, we'll explore the characters who shine as heroes and those who fall short as zeroes.

HEROES

Lord Beric, the Revenant Robin Hood, leads a band of merry men with a noble purpose. Armed with a super-power from the Lord of Light, he returns from the dead, his scars only adding to his manliness.

Brienne, socially awkward but a True Knight, kicks ass and is loyal to a fault. She even shows her big heart by burying the dead.

Mance Rayder, once thought to be the villain, is actually a hero. He leads the Free Folk, turning his back on Westeros' rigid class system.

Melisandre, despite her flaws like red glowing eyes and a taste for blood, aims to save the world from destruction.

And a special shout-out to Lady Olenna, the Queen of Thorns, for finally realizing Joffrey's intolerable shenanigans.

ZEROES

Robb Stark, the King Asshole, breaks his word and chops off his bannerman's head. His lack of common sense is truly令人失望.

Catelyn Stark makes a series of mistakes, from capturing the wrong guy to freeing an enemy and underestimating a villain.

Jorah Mormont, once loved, becomes inappropriate with Danerys and is a jealous liar.

Even wolfie disappoints, leaving Arya to fend for herself while he chases deer.

And Tyrion the Imp, where did his brain go? He gets his ass handed to him until finally delivering some payback.

Overall, I loved this book, especially the scenes with Sandor Clegane and Arya Stark. Their relationship was both funny and moving. Now, on to the next one!

First, here is an update on the Direwolf situation.

  

I still do not have one...sadface.

This series!!! What can I say? I am loving it! I don't know if I was just sick of everything else or just needed the escape, but I am soooooo enjoying it.

The great thing is that I am on the third book and it's not like I can't say which book I like better or which was weaker. They are one long story that comes in three (so far for me) packages.

It's not like Indiana Jones. Where we say "man, I love Indiana Jones but... that second one WTH?" You know, with Kate Capshaw and her never-ending shriek and there were monkey brains. Do you remember the monkey brains? I remember the monkey brains.

Refresher

  

**I will make no mention of Indiana Jones and the skull of shit or whatever it was called because I have decided that Harrison Ford needed a new boat and it should not be included in the series.

Anyways, A Song of Fire and Ice seems to be different from the other series I have read *cough* Sookie Stackhouse *cough*. I find them very refreshing and I never have any idea where it's going or how he is going to get us there. Also, do not get attached to anyone because George R R Martin be killing bitches left right and center. No one is safe.

Confession time: I seem to have a crush on The Hound.

  

WHAT? Shut up! I don't want to talk about it!

  

Whatever! I am not even sure he is alive. The last time we saw him he was feeling a bit stabbed under a tree and I am not putting a "spoiler tag" on that because if I don't know then I am not spoiling anything. Maybe it's cause he is so grumpy? This series brings out some weird attractions. My friend said she thought Littlefinger was sexy. He is a quirky mother f@&ker I'll give ya that. Also, she did not judge my hound problem so we're good.

Absolutely stunning!

This book is truly a masterpiece. With every read, it gets more and more firmly established as my all-time favorite fantasy book. If not the absolute top, it is definitely right up there among the very best. It is a marvelous tour de force that showcases the author's incredible talent and imagination.

The story is filled with captivating characters, a rich and detailed world, and a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The writing is beautiful and engaging, drawing you in and making you feel as if you are a part of the story itself.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It is a must-read for any fan of fantasy literature. 10/10.

The beginning of A Game of Thrones seemed promising. Robert Baratheon was King of Westeros, and though he wasn't perfect, the kingdom was stable. But his death changed everything. Now, there are more kings than castles. Joffrey and Stannis both claim the Iron Throne, while Robb Stark has declared himself King in the North, angering them both. Meanwhile, Balon Greyjoy has invaded the north, and across the Narrow Sea, Daenerys Targaryen dreams of retaking Westeros with her dragons.

The situation is a chaotic mess, and it only gets worse. In A Storm of Swords, a lot of beloved characters meet their end. This has disappointed many readers, especially those who consider some of the deceased to be the series' protagonists. However, Martin's approach to his fantasy world is grim and realistic. He has never promised a happy ending for the Starks or anyone else. The political situation in Westeros is complex, and the death of King Robert broke the kingdom. It cannot be easily put back together.

Despite the deaths and disappointments, there are still many interesting developments in A Storm of Swords. The Lannisters, in particular, face new challenges. Tywin Lannister, now the Hand, manages to alienate all three of his children. Tyrion, Cersei, and Jaime all realize that they are not as powerful as they thought. Meanwhile, Daenerys returns and proves to be a capable leader and general. She is the perfect mix of outsider and familiar face that Westeros needs. I am officially on Team Daenerys, at least for now. And finally, Martin returns to the threat of the Others, creating a sense of foreboding as winter approaches.

Martin's books demand a lot from the reader. The lines between protagonist and antagonist are blurred, and it's not always clear who we should root for. But his stories are filled with intrigue, plots, betrayal, and love. I am willing to wait and see where he takes us next.

I thoroughly enjoyed this third book in the Ice and Fire cycle. It was truly a remarkable experience to witness Martin's writing reach a new level of maturity and his character development deepen significantly.

There were numerous memorable moments throughout the book that left a lasting impression on me. It is also interesting to note that it serves as the main subject of Season 3 and a part of Season 4 of the associated HBO TV show.

Comparatively, I found this book to be more engaging than its two predecessors. However, I must admit that I had an even greater enjoyment of the last two books in the series. Each installment seems to build upon the previous ones, creating a rich and immersive world that keeps readers captivated from start to finish.

Overall, this third book in the Ice and Fire cycle is a must-read for fans of the series and those who appreciate well-written fantasy novels.