George R. R. Martin’s: A Storm of Swords

If you have been following my book reviews, then you know I am a huge fan of George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire, which has been turned into a show, A Game of Thrones, on HBO. Since the show is currently in the midst of season 3, it seems only fitting that I review book 3, A Storm of Swords, for any fans who wish to delve deeper into the series. This review will, inevitably, contain spoilers for books/seasons 1 and 2. So without further delay, I must warn you of SPOILERS! (Spoilers end after the next paragraph)

In Westros, the War of Five Kings is appearing to draw to a close following the death of Renly Baratheon, and the defeat of Stannis Baratheon at the Battle of Blackwater Bay. Tyrion is abed with severe wounds, Robb Stark is watching his influence dwindle, and the Lannisters are growing in power daily. In the North, John Snow finds himself amongst enemies, far away from the civilization he pledged himself to, and the Other (White Walkers in the show) are making their presence known all too well. On the other side of the world, Daenery’s Targaryan, the Mother of Dragons, finds herself in a unique political position, and intends to make it count for all she can. END SPOILERS!

The current state of Westeros and Essos is a breeding ground for betrayal, slaughter, and underhanded politics. A Storm of Swords does not disappoint in these regards. In fact, this novel has some of my favorite moments in fictional literature. Period. I am not going to spoil it for people, but there is one moment that will hook you on this series, if you are teetering on the edge. The writing is as masterful as the rest of the series, and it is astounding to compare some areas of the world to how they were two books ago. In fact, that is one of this book’s biggest draws: the evolution of Martin’s world is highlighted throughout the entire novel, and it makes for a fascinating read. If you have been following A Game of Thrones, check out the series. But it is of vital importance that you do not try to jump from television to book without reading the previous entries: quite simply, don’t start reading here. If you have read the previous two, then I advise you rush out and pick up a copy of A Storm of Swords right now, especially if you felt the series was slowing down.

Source: Jake Depew, Assistant Editor