“Never forget what you are, for surely the world will not. Make it your strength. Then it can never be your weakness.” In a world recovering from an incredible revolution, there is finally a time of peace. But what happens when people start to realize all the hidden issues within their kingdom? Their new king is a drunkard, and his queen seems just a little too interested in her brother. While the council is filled with incompetent lords squabbling over trivial matters, a true danger begins to make itself known in the far north. How will this impact the families of the very people who started the first revolution?
An incredible story spanning generations, following dozens of characters, Game of Thrones is the ultimate fantasy book. The first book in the famous series which inspired the Game of Thrones show, its namesake is an incredible way to get into the world of Ice and Fire. Covering so many stories from so many perspectives, one might think it gets dull or confusing. While there are some slow points, the story and worldbuilding are unmatched. I’d argue that Martin’s worldbuilding and details rival and possibly surpass Tolkien’s. His characters are so easy to feel for, even the “villains”. I particularly love all the themes of life it showcases. Despite the time its set in, and the fantasy aspects, it doesn’t shy away from difficult topics like survivors’ guilt or feeling like an outcast in one’s family. It shows the good, the bad and the dirty, but that’s why it has remained a classic for so many years.