While reading A Clash of Kings for the second time, it truly dawned on me that George R.R. Martin makes writing fantasy appear almost insultingly effortless. At first glance, it seems as if Martin scarcely bothers to do more than simply sketch his characters. And yet, they rapidly transform into legends.

For instance, take Quorin Halfhand. He's just a brother in the Night's Watch. He eats an egg and perhaps has only five lines, but he's a character that readers will find it extremely difficult to forget. Why is he called "halfhand"? Well, he lost all but the thumb and an index finger of his right hand and had to learn to fight with his left hand. They say he's even more dangerous with a sword now than he was before. What about Roose Bolton? He's the lord of the Dreadfort, he uses leeches to purify his blood, and his sigil is a flayed man. He speaks quietly, but no one dares to defy him. Behold.

Usually, to create a memorable character, characterization has to be done extremely well. But all Martin seems to need to do is come up with a nickname, a slogan, and a sigil. Maybe throw in a cool sword or a notorious deed.

Like it or lump it, it's tough to forget these characters.

Martin also has an amazing talent for architecture. Here's how long it takes Martin to transform Lord Balon Greyjoy's distant castle into the coolest keep in Westeros:

Drear, dark, forbidding, Pyke stood atop those islands and pillars, almost a part of them, its curtain wall closing off the headland around the foot of the great stone bridge that leapt from the clifftop to the largest islet, dominated by the massive bulk of the Great Keep. Farther out were the Kitchen Keep and the Bloody Keep, each on its own island. Towers and outbuildings clung to the stacks beyond, linked to each other by covered archways when the pillars stood close, by long swaying walks of wood and rope when they did not.

I would rather not see Pyke in a movie if only so that I could continue to remember it as I imagine it now. In fact, I find that I have carried these characters and castles with me since I first read this story ten years ago.

It's easy to get caught up in the intrigues of Tyrion and the adventures of Jon Snow. But even Arya's scrappy determination to exact revenge on everyone that has wronged her makes for a compelling storyline. Each night, Arya recites a list of villains that have wronged her, ranging from the Lannisters to Ser Gregor Clegane to Raff the Sweetling. After Arya rescues Jaqen H'ghar and his two companions from certain death, he declares that he will kill any three people she names to even the stakes. Could he kill King Joffrey in King's Landing? Jaqen explains

Speak the name, and death will come. On this morrow, at the turn of the moon, a year from this day, it will come. A man does not fly like a bird, but one foot moves and then another and one day a man is there, and a king dies.

Arya is a courageous underdog, but perhaps the best part of her story is that she always attracts memorable mentors. Jaqen H'ghar is neither the first nor the last of Arya's guides, but like Syrio before him and Sandor Clegane after, he is impossible to forget.

It just doesn't seem fair that Martin is able to come up with so many great characters, and it seems almost criminal that he introduces and dismisses them so callously.

So I was happy to notice upon re-reading A Clash of Kings that Martin's seemingly effortless world building and characterization are largely due to a carefully structured series of revelations. Quorin is only impressive because of the many ways he stands out amongst the Night Watch's rangers. He is clean shaven, well mannered, and surprisingly loyal to the Wall's mandate. Roose Bolton is not just a strange lord with leeches: there are legends that the Starks once lost a battle to one of their bannermen -- who not only killed the Stark but also wore his skin as a cloak. Pyke isn't just a castle in the sea. It took the might of the realm to put down the Greyjoy rebellion. Jaqen H'ghar isn't just a strange man. Daenerys was betrayed by a maegi in the first novel that had occult knowledge that is tantalizingly similar to Jaqen's. Clearly, there is a great deal of thought that goes into these novels.

Thank goodness. The first time I read A Clash of Kings, I was struck by the hypocrisy of Westeros' ideals. Perhaps history teaches us that power and wealth shape our lives more than ideals and principles. So A Clash of Kings is sometimes quite depressing. However, this time, it struck me that talent counts for little without hard work, and I find that encouraging.

Love is a poison. A sweet poison, yes, but it will kill you all the same.

This statement holds a certain truth, as love can often bring both joy and pain. In the world of literature, love is a common theme that can drive characters to do extraordinary things.

In the review by Paige, she shares her thoughts on the second book of a series. She finds it not as engaging as the first one and feels that it has a lot of filler and lacks a clear plot. However, she still gives it four stars because she is happy to continue the series and was able to move through it quickly.

Paige also enjoys learning more about the Lannister deceptions and being in the midst of the corruption they cause in the kingdoms. The "clash of kings" is exciting for her, and she is rooting for the Starks while still maintaining her love for Daenerys. Her only complaint is that she didn't get enough of Daenerys in this book.

Overall, Paige's review gives us a glimpse into her reading experience and her anticipation for the next book in the series. It shows how different readers can have varying opinions on the same book, and how love and other emotions can play a role in our perception of literature.

- Paige

“Sharp steel and strong arms rule this world, don't ever believe any different.”

The second hymn of the Song of Ice and Fire picks up where the first one left off. Joffrey is now King of the Andals and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm. However, his rule is far from secure as other kings and heirs emerge, all vying for the Iron Throne. The kingdoms are constantly under threat from various directions. Stannis Baratheon claims to be the rightful heir as the elder brother of the late king, and since Joffrey is not a trueborn son. Renly Baratheon believes he is more beloved by the people and would make a better king than his brother or Robert. Meanwhile, Robb Stark leads the wolves at Winterfell, seeking vengeance for his father Ned Stark. And Daenerys Targaryen, with her Khalasar and new born dragons, follows a red comet, an omen of a new era, towards an unknown land.

This volume is filled with intense conflicts, disputes, and controversies. George R.R. Martin delights in killing off his characters, but he also creates a host of new and interesting ones to keep the story going. Davos Seaworth, Brienne of Tarth, Melisandre the Red Woman, Margaery Tyrell, and others all add depth and complexity to the narrative.

Davos Seaworth is a loyal knight in service of Stannis Baratheon. He witnesses his lord being influenced by the Red priestess Melisandre and her strange religion. Despite Stannis's sometimes harsh treatment, Davos remains faithful and is a wise and kind character. Liam Cunningham's portrayal of him in the TV show is excellent.

Tyrion Lannister, who was a witty character in the first volume, now serves as Hand of the King. He uses his slyness and cunning to navigate the political landscape, but his honor is questionable compared to Ned Stark. Nevertheless, his intelligence is still impressive.

Arya Stark, disguised as a boy, travels north with Yoren and the Night's Watch recruits. Her character has developed well through the pages, and she shows great bravery and courage in the face of violence and peril. She meets Jaqen H'ghar and begins to take the first steps towards revenge.

Robb Stark proves himself to be as bold as his father by demanding the separation of the Kingdom of the North and winning many battles. However, his apathy towards finding his sisters is a point of contention. Sansa Stark is caught in a difficult situation, treated neither as a princess nor as a prisoner. Theon Greyjoy, on the other hand, struggles to prove himself and is ultimately a cruel and ungrateful character.

Brienne of Tarth and Catelyn Stark are two honorable women in a world dominated by men. Brienne is a skilled warrior, and Catelyn is a strong and resilient mother. Jon Snow's chapters also become more interesting as he uncovers secrets from the past and beyond the Wall. Overall, this volume is a thrilling continuation of the Song of Ice and Fire series.

I know what you might be thinking... "Only 4 stars??!" Well, let me tell you the reasons.

First of all, it took me a full 11 days to reach the halfway point of this book. In my edition, which consisted of 807 pages, that's approximately 400 pages. I managed to read more than half of that just today, so for me, 11 days is an extremely long time to get engaged in a story.

Secondly, a significant portion of this book felt like setup and maneuverings, and I was eagerly anticipating for things to actually happen! "A Game of Thrones" had me on the edge of my seat almost from the very beginning, but "Clash of Kings" didn't have that same level of tension for a large part of it. I understand that, given the events, this might be appropriate, but I couldn't help but long to feel the way I did while reading "Game of Thrones" - that intense, gnaw-my-fingers-raw anxiety.

However, my wish was granted in the second half of the book, for sure.

And I want to make it abundantly clear that I don't think the writing was poor or that the story was slow or anything of the sort. All the maneuverings, setups, and everything else were exceptionally well done. But to me, it just didn't have the same impact...

"Game of Thrones" spoiler: ...with Ned and Robert and Drogo all dead. I missed the absent characters, and it truly made a difference.

The story, though... Even when I read it in fits and starts, was truly fantastic. Once again, delving into this story is like being immersed in Westeros, and I absolutely love that. The second half of the book was incredibly exciting and harrowing. When the maneuverings and plots began to converge, I could hardly tear my eyes away. It took 11 days to read the setup in the first half and only 3 to finish. But it's a testament to how amazing this series is that it affects me in such a profound way. Too bad Martin doesn't seem to care about the characters I love. He's so ruthless! *sniffle* (I secretly love that, though. Authors take note: Don't sacrifice your story to save a character.)

I'm almost scared to continue this series... scared to see what lies ahead. Chaos and winter, most likely. *shiver*

This isn't going to be a cutesy review. I am well into the third book. I fear that if I don't blurt out my thoughts about this one soon, then all the books in the series are going to meld together in my memory. Here are my three main impressions:

1. Bleak, dreary, and dismal
Don't expect any happiness in this book. Martin is merciless with his characters. And if you do see a bright light, don't trust it. One character learned she won't have to marry an abusive, horrible guy. She and I were elated. Then someone pointed out that her ex-fiancé could still abuse her as he desires, and few would be able to stop him.

2. Eeny, meeny, miny, moe
It occurred to me halfway through a big battle that I didn't know who I was rooting for. The defender is a cruel king and has a tenuous claim to the throne, but I like a few of the characters in his castle and feared what would happen to them if they lose. The attacker would probably be a fair king, yet he is cold and distant. He has a better claim than most to the throne. However I doubt he could hold it for long. Precisely who did I want to win? It was not a problem of apathy. Martin drew the characters and politics so craftily that I just could not decide. Honestly, instead of picking, I sat back and enjoyed the twists and turns.

3. Better keep up!
The scope of the plot is ever-expanding. I give Martin kudos for having such a grand vision and keeping it all straight. I don't feel that any of the storylines are unnecessary (except, I hate to say it, maybe Arya’s). And I have complete faith that they will culminate in the most amazing way by the end of series. Yet it is inevitable that you will prefer some perspectives over others. I counted the pages in between Daenerys’ chapters – an average of 130 pages! And this is a middle book. There are no cliffhangers, but very little is resolved. If it is resolved, that means someone died. Unless they are only pretending to be dead, of course.

I lied. One more point.

4. Awesomeness This book is truly amazing. The world-building is so detailed and immersive that you feel like you are actually in Westeros. The characters are complex and well-developed, and the plot is full of surprises and twists. I can't wait to see what happens next in this series.

“When the snows fall and the white winds blow, the lone wolf dies, but the pack survives.”

Wooooo! It's time to write a review for this hefty tome. I've been eager to read this book for nearly a year, but only recently summoned the courage to actually finish it.

Fyi, this review is likely to be 80% random quotes and 19% inarticulate screeching. Sorry, not sorry!

I read the first book in less than a day and was almost instantly hooked on the show. No, don't worry, this isn't going to be a comparison between the show and Martin's books. I'll just say this: I love the show and it's a good adaptation, but as the seasons progress, the holes in it keep getting bigger (that's the main reason I decided to seriously consider finishing A Song of Ice and Fire).

Martin's books have been rather challenging for me to read so far. For starters, they are really, really long. Don't get me wrong, I have no issue grappling with a 900+ page book, but it does get tiring. The writing itself is excellent, quite illustrious, and has a sort of adult-y feel that I really enjoyed. Martin's descriptions are lengthy but vivid, with an elevated tone that makes me feel like I'm reading some epic story (which it actually is, xd).

The battle scenes in ASoIaF are probably the best things ever to exist. I can't even begin to describe my awe and joy while experiencing events on the battlefield from multiple characters' perspectives. Combine that with impossibly detailed histories, politics, court schemes, secrets, and betrayals, and you get a perfect plot, which is exactly what this book has.

“Power resides only where men believe it resides. A shadow on the wall, yet shadows can kill. And ofttimes a very small man can cast a very large shadow.”

What makes this book difficult to read and follow is the sheer number of characters, places, and events portrayed. I had to maintain a high level of concentration at all times and often had to go back and reread some parts to catch details or parts important for the further development of the plot.

“The brightest flame casts the darkest shadow.”

Oh, but no amount of Westeros Houses history can make me bored with this book. I became so invested in it, its plot, characters, and this marvelous world that Martin created. From the moment I started A Game of Thrones, I knew I was going to love this amazing world, and it just kept getting better. It feels like every detail is well thought out, developed to the extreme, and everything is connected and equally important. Every character, happening, or battle is just a small piece of a huge puzzle, one that I can't wait to see whole but enjoy immensely in the process of seeing it unfold.

I'm just... ugh... my heart is filled with love for this book.

There are so many characters, but each and every one of them is developed and special in their own way, and I love them all (lol, even those who died and never even appeared in the books, hello Rhaegar and Lyanna). There are a lot of POVs constantly changing as the book progresses, and it contributes to the dynamics and rounds out the story perfectly. I can't name one character that I found underdeveloped or irrelevant or even one that annoyed me.

“So many vows... they make you swear and swear. Defend the king. Obey the king. Keep his secrets. Do his bidding. Your life for his. But obey your father. Love your sister. Protect the innocent. Defend the weak. Respect the gods. Obey the laws. It’s too much. No matter what you do, you’re forsaking one vow or the other.”

“I will hurt you for this. I don't know how yet, but give me time. A day will come when you think yourself safe and happy, and suddenly your joy will turn to ashes in your mouth, and you'll know the debt is paid.”

· Arya – well, she is my #1 in this book. I'm crazy about her. She's the ultimate badass girl. I love how she got tired of crap and decided to kill everyone at the age of... 10.

· Daenerys – book Dany is bae. She's another super-strong female character who knows what she wants and no one will ever stand in her way again. Mother of dragons, please adopt me.

· Jon Snow – I would call myself a basic bitch, BUT I loved Jon before I started watching the show because he is a cinnamon roll and deserves the world.

· Tyrion Lannister – How could I not love the wicked little cunning dwarf who actually has a soft heart but can't show it because vultures would tear him apart? I think his time as king's Hand was his life highlight. It was really his game, with his schemes, wits, and all...

“It is real, all of it, he thought, the wars, the intrigues, the great bloody game, and me in the center of it… me, the dwarf, the monster, the one they scorned and laughed at, but now I hold it all, the power, the city, the girl. This was what I was made for, and gods forgive me, but I do love it…”

· Cersei Lannister – I lOoOve Cersei. Yes, she is a bitch, and yes, I hate some things she did. But if you look at her character, it's actually quite amazing. She's badass and knows what is hers and does everything to protect it. She's cunning and rotten but has that something powerful about herself that makes her really interesting.

“When we were little, Jaime and I were so much alike that even our lord father could not tell us apart. Sometimes as a lark we would dress in each other’s clothes and spend a whole day each as the other. Yet even so, when Jaime was given his first sword, there was none for me. ‘What do I get?’ I remember asking. We were so much alike, I could never understand why they treated us so differently. Jaime learned to fight with sword and lance and mace, while I was taught to smile and sing and please. He was heir to Casterly Rock, while I was to be sold to some stranger like a horse, to be ridden whenever my new owner liked, beaten whenever he liked, and cast aside in time for a younger filly. Jaime’s lot was to be glory and power, while mine was birth and moonblood.”

· Gendry – I just love Gendry, even though he doesn't get much screen time.

· The Hound – if he isn't the eternal mood, I don't know.

“There are no true knights, no more than there are gods. If you can’t protect yourself, die and get out of the way of those who can. Sharp steel and strong arms rule this world, don't ever believe any different.”

I'm reading A Storm of Swords as my March tbr because I had to take a break from such a long book, but honestly, the more I think about it, I might start reading it even sooner. Any Game of Thrones/A Song of Ice and Fire fans out here? Show or books? And most importantly at this moment – are you ready for season 8?

“Because it will not last,” Catelyn answered, sadly. “Because they are the knights of summer, and winter is coming.”

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By far, the two most significant adjustments I've had to make after transitioning from watching the TV show to delving into these books are as follows:

Firstly, reimagining major characters and war leaders as children. In my opinion, they would have benefited from being a few years older. The idea of 13 or 14-year-olds leading armies seems rather odd, regardless of how "medieval-inspired" the fantasy setting might be.

Secondly, realizing that my beloved Tyrion is actually a creep. Peter Dinklage added so much charm to the character on screen. However, in the book, his constant fixation on his cock and the way he talks about Shae, as exemplified by the exchange Bron: "Fuck you Dwarf"

Tyrion: "That's Shae's job.", is truly unpleasant to read.

Nevertheless, I can't deny that this story is highly addictive. I believe it's the combination of the rich world-building and the great dialogue that makes it work so well. I'm rather scared for Theon's chapters in the next book, though...

WINTERFELLLLLLL!!

Obey your nerds. That's what I'm learning. Seriously, I never intended to read this series, but once I started, it's like a drug. And yes, I watched season two before reading this book, but I'm not going to wait for seasons 3 - 4 to read the next one. No way! Because I'm hooked and I MUST KNOW! And if anyone spoils the third book for me, I'm going to make one of those torture devices with the bucket, the rat, and the torch, and it's bye-bye stomach for you!

I now understand why it takes Martin so long to write these things. This is the densest and most fully-realized world I've ever read. He plants these little seeds that sometimes take hundreds of pages to sprout, but when they do - oh my word! There are so many details, so much backstory, so many overlaps and connections, and so much history and depth to this world. It feels so genuine. It's like Donald Harington, who created an entire town of people and just let them loose to live their lives. Martin's scope is even bigger, and it's mind-boggling. There's just so much going on.

I loved the second season, and reading the book after enhanced my enjoyment. Most of the show is faithful to the book, but not as much as the first season/book. But one isn't better than the other. I'm sad that some book-things didn't make it into the show and vice versa. But together, they make my brainheart happy.

The characters whose stories changed the most from the book to the screen are [spoiler characters]. Some scenes that were in the show but not the book made me sad. And there are some characters in the show who aren't even in the book! Robbed!

At first, I hated [spoiler character] because of his affectation-laden dialogue, but I came around. Now I want one for myself. And who is a worse human being, [spoiler character 1] or [spoiler character 2]? I'm still deciding, but I'm looking forward to their just desserts, although Martin's sense of justice is unpredictable.

The book isn't perfect. Every time it got to [spoiler character]'s POV chapters, I was all zzzzzzzzzzzzz. Because, obviously, the only perspective that matters is [spoiler character]. She's great in the books, but even better onscreen. And everything with [spoiler character] is wayyy better onscreen, and since she's one of my favorite actresses, I'm glad she has more to do.

George R.R. Martin... So that's hardly a book review, but there are a lot of reviews for this book and I'm ordering you to go out and read these right now. Just do it and stop your backtalk.

I leave you with these thoughts: [images]. Twins!! My beloveds!

Now go read.

Oh, but p.s. - CHAINS!!!

God, I loved this book.

If you are seeking entertainment, this book is truly topnotch and deserves a solid 5 stars. It is filled with action-packed scenes and a diverse cast of characters, including heroes, villains, and those in between. The Starks, for example, are separated and scattered across the kingdom as they strive to survive. However, while the plot is engaging, the characters' roles can sometimes be predictable and even a bit pathetic.

On the other hand, if you are in search of good writing, this book is just okay and might rate a 2 stars. The prologue, in particular, can be a bit of a struggle, especially if you haven't read the previous book in a while. Martin doesn't provide a recap of the events in Book 1, and instead introduces new characters, which can be confusing.

Finally, if you are looking for some deep life's meanings to help you grow as a person, you might be disappointed. The only metaphor I could find was about the wall, which has been used many times before. There are no really quotable quotes that you could collect and put on a greeting card.

In conclusion, if you are a fan of entertainment and don't mind a bit of predictability in your characters, this book is definitely worth a read. But if you are like me and are looking for something more profound, you might want to approach it with caution.

\\n  2023 Review\\n

This series is truly outstanding. It's been a while since I last read it, and I'd almost forgotten just how remarkable these books are. There is a plethora of great characters and captivating plots. However, what makes the series so engaging is the element of possibility and openness.

Anything can occur within the story. When you read it while being aware of the fates of many of the characters, it becomes evident how easily things could have taken a different turn. A slight deviation in direction or a different decision could have led to numerous alternative outcomes. Many characters who met their demise could have achieved victory if they had made a different move in the game.

The plot is incredibly detailed and complex. There are several standout characters who begin to develop and展示 their qualities. For me, this book belongs to Tyrion. It's the one where he is at his sharpest, demonstrating his capabilities and showing what he could accomplish if given a proper opportunity.

So, 8 years after my initial read, my opinion remains relatively unchanged: Tyrion is a boss.

\\n  2015 Review\\n

This is Tyrion's moment; this is his book. Forget about Dany and Jon Snow because this is where we witness the true essence of Tyrion Lannister.

Tyrion is my favorite character in this series, and I may be somewhat biased in my review. For me, he is the most unique and original character that George R.R Martin has created. He is wise beyond his years and has a keen perception of things. He knows his place in the world and uses it to his advantage.

Often overlooked and underestimated by his family and the other players in the game, Tyrion surprises everyone when he is appointed as the King's hand. He performs exceptionally well, much to the dismay of many. This comes as a surprise even to Tyrion himself.

He is much more than the silver-tongued drunkard he initially appears to be. He is a man of great compassion, but also one who can be ruthless when necessary. He learns to play the game quickly and becomes a master at it.

Beneath his tough exterior, Tyrion is a fragile man, but he has learned to turn this into a strength. He loves only one man, his brother Jaimie, and keeps his lover a secret to prevent his enemies from using her against him.

Throughout it all, Tyrion plays the game with a steady hand and takes no chances. He succeeds over the other schemers and solidifies his place at court. He does all this while maintaining his good nature, even in the company of snakes.

Tyrion is a great character and a major reason to love this series. He is hilarious, wise, and brave, yet also one of the book's biggest victims. I hope he gets the ending he deserves.

A Song of Ice and Fire
1. A Game of Thrones- A life chnaging five stars
2.A Clash of Kings- An Impish five stars
3. A Storm of Swords - A Lannister loving five stars
4. A Feast for Crows - A flat 3.5 stars
5. A Dance with Dragons - A convoluted 4 stars

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Although some parts of this book seemed a bit slower-paced for me compared to the first one, it truly presents an amazing world!! I'm generally a very rapid reader, yet I've relished taking more time to truly soak in this story.

I did watch a significant portion of the HBO series, and having those visualizations has enriched my experience of the book. Typically, I always read books first before watching any related series or movie! Perhaps due to the sheer magnitude of these books, in this case, it's been the opposite, and I'm glad to have those mental images of the characters.

This series is truly a must-read for all enthusiasts of the fantasy genre! It offers a rich and immersive world, filled with complex characters and captivating storylines. Whether you're a die-hard fantasy fan or new to the genre, this series has something to offer. So, don't hesitate to pick up the first book and embark on this unforgettable journey.

\\n  Second read on 13/02/2016 - 18/03/2016\\n



I must admit that I have developed an unhealthy obsession with this series. Last night, I made sure no one touched my leftover takeout in a rather creative way. I wrote a note that only my dad understood (since he watches the show), but even he didn't find it funny. So, I was left to giggle about it by myself. My friend and I are continuing our seemingly never-ending buddy read of this series, while another friend and I are driving each other crazy with theories. What really happened at the Tower of Joy? Will Cleganebowl actually happen? Is the series even fantasy? What is life?



Aside from going a little insane from waiting for The Winds of Winter, I still love this book as much as I did when I first read it. I can now afford to not pay attention to every single detail because I understand the story so much better. The minor characters are slowly becoming more prominent, and it's wonderful to see the story unfold.



As I'm making my way through the series, I'm starting to notice more and more similarities between myself and a character I used to hate. Guess who's a Cancer? [Not that I believe in astrology at all, but this is for those who do.] I think the only reason I don't hate Cersei as much as I used to is because we have so much in common, like the complete inability to have patience for anything. Give me The Winds of Winter now!



All in all, there are worse characters out there. Not many, but a few. This review is a bit of a mess, but then again, so am I.



\\n  First read on 26/01/2015 - 19/03/2015\\n



\\"Power resides where men believe it resides. No more and no less.\\"



A Clash of Kings picks up shortly after A Game of Thrones ends. Before, one king ruled over the Seven Kingdoms. Now, the War of the Five Kings has begun, and everyone wants to sit on the Iron Throne. Joffrey Baratheon, Stannis Baratheon, Renly Baratheon, Robb Stark, and Balon Greyjoy all wear crowns (though not simultaneously). Nothing is the same anymore, and it never will be.



I'm a bit biased towards Daenerys myself, even though she isn't participating in the war. Where the first book excelled in worldbuilding, this one shines in character development. The worldbuilding is still top-notch, but the characterisation really stood out for me. There's no shortage of strong female characters, which I find really refreshing considering the blatant gender discrimination within the culture of Westeros.



The oppressive gender roles are evident, too. For example, when Catelyn saw Brienne, she thought, \\n  Is there any creature on earth as unfortunate as an ugly woman?\\n This mentality isn't a surprise given the setting, but sometimes I felt it was overdone. There's definitely more incest in this book than the first, but it plays a relatively small role compared to the theme of war.



I did watch a few episodes of the show, and I have to say that everything seems off. It's a good show, but it shouldn't pretend to be based on the series when it's not. The throne isn't even the same. And how can any show possibly satisfy a reader with a vivid imagination? Overall, I enjoyed this book even more than the first. The sexism is a given, so I won't lower my rating because of it. I'm looking forward to jumping back into the world of Westeros soon.