Erin N. (runningoutof-ink) reviewed on 8/29/2012

Helpful Score: 3

I tried reading the first book in the A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin shortly after HBO announced its plans to create a TV series based off of the books. I barely got 5o pages in before I called it quitsthe beginning moved too slowly, I wasnt interested in any of the characters, etc. But after watching the first season of HBOs TV series, I decided to give it a try. This time, I was hooked. The first season served was a great introduction into the book series. I could picture the characters, I knew what was going to happen to them, and better yet, in the books, I could see more under the surface of each characters actions.

Martin is a fearless author. Every time I find myself entertaining a romantic notion about a characters future, I have to remind myself that Martin is behind the wheel. Martin doesnt entertain any romantic notions about his story or his characters. Bad things happen all the time, and Martin is all about showing that in his books. There are no miraculous saves, no triumphant heroes, no last-minute genius ideas. Even the moments where it seems like everything is going to go as planned, Martin does something that makes you want to throw the book against the wall. Martin is completely brutal and unpredictable, and its what makes me love these books.

The tension carries you through the book pretty well, considering that each chapter is another characters perspective, and usually you leave off with the previous characters plot-line until you return to that character. Its a really ingenious way to write a book. I enjoy the chapters of Arya and Daenarys the mostIve always loved strong female characters, and both of these girls take that archetype and fly with it. I think Daenarys could have a book series all her own and I would eat them up. Her story is just so epic. She charges through each obstacle with so much character. She experiences doubts and fears but refuses to let those emotions master her; she is completely self-aware. She could have ended up being this weak little queen to Khal Drogo and instead she took her situation and made it work to her own advantage. Such a good story!

Read more at my website, www.emnienhuis.com!

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