The Nameless Planet - Book Reviews

A Game of Thrones - George R.R. Martin

First off I would like to say that this book blew me away. Never before have I been so involved in a novel. I got this book for Christmas 98, and didn't get to read it until I was at school in February. This book made me forget everything else. The characters are REAL, you learn to love some, and hate others with a passion. The actions of the antagonists will frustrate you, and the death of the true hero in the book will make you mourn. Jon Snow is by far the coolest character, and Eddard Stark was my absolute favorite. Tyrion Lannister, the dwarf was also quite memorable. But enough about them and on to the plot. This is the first volume in a series called "A Song of Ice and Fire". The setting of the book is in the land of Winterfell, where the house Stark resides. Summer has lasted for about 8 years, and "Winter is coming". There is a very complex political plot in this book, and boy oh boy is it awesome. I cannot say what happens (don't want to spoil it), but this book will leave you guessing until the last page. I should also note that I really thought the cover was neat, and it inspired me to get the book. The guy on the cover is a member of the "Night's Watch" which is a very interesting order of soldiers, warriors and scholars that was introduced in the book. It was described in realistic detail - you would think that the Night's Watch are regarded as heroes, but they are no more than outcasts and criminals sent to guard The Wall that separates Winterfell from the unknown regions of the North. A lot of people who have read this comment on the violence and graphic descriptions of sex. But honestly, you don't notice them. These people need to get out more. I read this book after stopping Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series at book four and I must say this new series surpasses it by far. The second book in this series is called "A Clash of Kings". I can't wait to read it! Rating: ***** (Added 1999.05.28)