This series is what truly shaped my love for reading. I started around 2016 having not read a book since high-school, I read the first 13 chapters in one sitting and I didn't think it was possible for a book to hold my attention for more than 30 minutes.
This series is just built different and it got me into reading fantasy. I’m reading The Stormlight Archive right now and loving it, but I have come to accept that A Song Of Ice And Fire is in a league of its own. The world is so well imagined that George could release a book about some random guy running a tavern and I would be enthralled. Even his random non pov characters and their dialogue are memorable. Whenever I feel a bit depressed, I pick up this series and it cheers me up.
Have you read the Kingkiller Chronicles? For me it's up there with my all time favorites along with ASOIAF, I know Mike doesn't enjoy the series as much but to each their own haha. If you haven't read em already (fair warning that there are only two books and a novella in the series so far, fans have been waiting ten years for book three but hopefully it's going to be released soon) then I highly recommend it
Its due to GRRM's almost unparalleled character work. He makes even characters with only a few lines in the books appear as real people in a way that even writers like Sanderson can not compete with.
@@bjornerluffy in the sci-fi realm, _The Expanse_ series is incredible, and IMO quite on par with GRRM. Incidentally, one of the co-authors worked as an assistant to George Martin for years. Read The Expanse if you love the character work of GOT.
@@Trepanation21 THE EXPANSE IS INCREDIBLE! This is one of the reasons why I liked it so much, although not quite as much as ASOIAF but still. The Sci-fi realm is tbh a part of the fantasy genre, just focused on the future instead of the past, but with the same focus on creativity and "magic". The author being related in that way to GRRM makes perfect sense
I know this is controversial, but I found myself loving a Feast for Crows as much, if not more than any book in the series. I know not as much happens but it's so beautifully written and a brilliant installment where a conversation between two characters is the most exiting thing ever
Not controversial at all. FEAST is my favorite book of the bunch too. I still find it to be "action-packed", but I guess it does lack it comparatively. But agree, the CONVERSATIONS that happen in that installment is brilliant!
@@miyoko_17 yeah the conversations are enthralling. Kind of somewhat reminds me of the conversations in the Dune books. And despite the pace slowing down a bit compared to the first three books, shit still very much goes down in AFFC. What happens in regards to Brienne is very, very wild and intense to read. I highly recommend Preston Jacob’s series he did about Brienne’s chapters in Feast. It reveals just how much detail and thought George put into her story in that book.
this video right here is the work of someone who truly has a passion for reading and books. the amount of imagination, effort and passion mike puts into this stuff is incredible. he's not here for a paycheck. this man truly loves what he's talking about and it's so refreshing. i will never not watch what he puts out. absolutely one of the best booktube channels out there and it's not even close.
I only follow a handful of booktubers but Mike is at the top, along with one other channel called Bookpilled (he mainly covers old sci fi books) who describes plots and writing styles better than anyone I've come across. The two best channels for book fiends imo
I just read this for the first time ever and was so surprised how engaged I was even knowing everything that was going to happen from the show. The main characters to side characters with barely any page time all jump off the page with so much liveliness and distinctive personality. Also this does such heavy set up and world building while managing to be a complete and satisfying story on its What an awesome start to a series indeed!
I came to this series about 2006, which was coincidentally _juuuust_ before industry murmurs started about HBO potentially picking it up. I was deployed at the time, and my team leader let me borrow the first book because I didn't bring any books of my own. Absolutely captivated by the story, in my own bubble of escape while at war. While getting through the books that were available at the time, I got on Amazon and ordered the first book for my mom back home. She then ended up letting my best friend borrow each book as she finished them! That best friend ended up naming his eventual daughter (first and only so far!) Arya! All because a sergeant let a private borrow a book on the other side of the world 😊
You've gotten me so hyped for rereading this book and series! I remember watching the first season of the show and wondering how anyone who hasn't first read the book could understand several details. Inspiring review! 🔥
@@madassassin5465 I don't remember specific details anymore, but when I watched Season 1 with my husband (who had not read the books), we paused several times so I could explain certain things. I think you can get enough of the story to enjoy the show-clearly, many have-but I still think it's more impactful if you've read the books beforehand.
@@Johanna_readsi figured that would be the case. I never watched the show but reading the books for the first time. Loving it so far. Fastest i read through a book since like middle school. Its definitely a page turner
Damn so you weren't curious to how certain characters looked or if the show changed any ages because of some content in the books? I got like 3 deaths spoiled for me 😭
I absolutely love these books. I'm so excited for these Game of Throne book reviews and it makes me want to pull it back off the shelf and immerse myself in this series again.
Confession, this was the book that got me into reading. First book I read cover to cover since High School so that was 18 years lol. I was thinking damn I just read the greatest and everything else will pale in comparison. Now Iam mowing down fantasy series and have found new loves but ASOIAF and Game of Thrones will always be my favorite. Awesome vid Mike.
I agree. ASoIaF is literally the best book series I’ve ever read. Like out of everything I’ve ever read. I could re-read these books over and over and over……
It;s so readable and immersive and the character work is amazing, you really get to know who Cat, Ned, and Arya are. Distinctive and sad because you dont know whats going to happen next. You actually worry with Cat when Robb comes back from battle and you really feel sadness when Ned is sitting in that jail/dungeon. And best of all you get all the adventure/fantasy/worldbuilding stuff with Tyrion and Jon's chapters :)
Yes, all the characters truly have their own rich inner worlds. I love how the kids really have their own personalities too, their own worldview and how it changes over time
@@r21167fr, im still early on (so yeah the original comment is a mild spoiler lol but even googling a character's actor is a spoiler so...) and some of my favorite chapters are from the children Bran and Jon. Its crazy how each chapter really feels narrated by its character.
I can not give this series or GRR MARTIN the props it deserves because it will not be finished Sad , Fire and Blood is an incredible book and A Knight of The Seven Kingdoms is so much fun
I finished this book today and it was an absolute delight! I found the meeting between Ned and Cersei in the Godswood, Mirri Mazz Durr dancing with her shadows in Drogo's tent, and Arya watching Syrio make his last stand were highlights!
One of the best reviews I've ever seen and the hype is real. I'm starting this in January for the first time and it's what I'm most excited about in 2023. Thanks for this one!!!
I loved everything about this video!!! So pumped for the reread next month!! I had goosebumps during the introduction and hearing all my favorite quotes from the book!😊
Well, now I have to read it. I have only seen the first episode on tv because I don’t care to watch tv. I would much instead read. Your channel Mike is excellent. It has opened up so many new authors for me to try out. I typically read theology, and philosophy, but this year I have revisited fantasy from when I read the genre in my youth.
I finally read the first book this year and I loved it! I watched the show when it aired and I always wanted to read the books because I know there's so much more that couldn't possibly be included in the 8 seasons of the series. If you want to do a spoiler review, I'm super up for it! Something I wanted to mention about the writing is that even when I knew what was going to happen, George's writing made me cry, rage and laugh all over again. Looking forward to continue reading ASOIF :)
That's so true about being able to identify POV's by reading a single sentence. Sometimes I lose my spot and its usually easy to find for this reason. Also, I'm glad you're going through this series. It's GOAT.
i am one of these first time readers with Johanna' readalong .. thank you sooo much for this video - i cannot wait to dive into GoT eventhough I only watched the show. you did an AMAZING; FANTASTIC job with this video .. every minute screams passion for this book. love love love!
Ser Mike, so thanks for this review. ASOIAF is the last big fantasy series I have not read yet. I was debating forever trying to decide if I should read it and putting it off because “it can’t be as good as everyone says!” Well, I decided to finally read the prologue of a game of thrones. Immediately I was like “well, guess I’m continuing!!” That was 5 days ago……..I am now 120 pages into a clash of kings 😂😂😂. This series is absolutely INCREDIBLE!!!! I have never experienced anything like this
I vividly remember when I first discovered GRRM. It was 2005 & I was ahem* at work, lol, and found an excerpt of some novel called 'A Game of Thrones', where you could read the first chapter. Well, let's just say that I was hooked and fell in love with Martin's writing immediately. I texted my bf at the time, telling him that I just found this fantastic novel we need to find and buy STAT, and we did & both loved it. For those who've read George, I also recommend his early works too, like Dreamsongs short story collections (some stuff from the '70s, I believe!)
Can relate to your "Sept of Baelor" moment 😂 I was in a freshman biology lecture of over 300 students when I read that part. It took everything I had not to yell out loud in that moment.
Fantastic video, Mike. I appreciate you taking the time to explain that this series isn’t just solely nihilistic and heartless. Every few months I see somebody post that take on social media, saying it kept them from enjoying or even finishing the books, and I genuinely think they must have just watched the show. I have no idea how someone could read this series and completely miss just how much heart and hope and optimism exists in some of these characters and the overall story as a whole. The books can be cynical at times, and sometimes very gritty, but the term “nihilistic” is honestly just soooo far off the mark. And I am very much down for a spoiler talk/review. This is by far my favorite book series, so I’ll take all the ASOIAF content I can get 😆
I picked up a box set of the current books at a thrift store in near perfect condition and I was so excited. I am looking forward to starting it next year.
Great review. I'm re-reading the series for the 3rd time, just started book 5 so sadly almost done and likely won't re-read again until a true release date for Winds of Winter, so probably another 4 years. In the meantime, this series is still amazing and once I finish book 5 for the 3rd time i'm going to try First Law and hopefully if the first three catch me I can continue on while we wait for book 6 of ASOIF haha
One of my favorite conversations in the series (I can't remember which book) is when Varys asks Tyrion that riddle about who holds power. I will never forget it.
In college, this book and Fahrenheit 451 got me back into recreational reading. They also solidified the focus I wanted to have on reading sci-fi and fantasy.
I am currently reading this book, I am about 2/3 through. I have probably DNF’d it four times. I am enjoying it better this time. I think I was dealing with TV series hangover. I have the Omnibus ebook with all the books. I am not sure if I’ll read straight through or take a breather between books.
Great review! This is indeed one of the strongest first books in a series that I have ever read. George RR Martin gets a lot of criticism but the man is a fantastic writer. The characters are so compelling, too. I am hoping to re-read it and the other available ASOIAF books, and then read Fire and Blood. Love the sweater, by the way! Thanks for sharing 😃
As much as I hate that GRRM sold out to HBO and probably won't finish the series, (I'm not even sure I'd finish the series if he finished writing it) it doesn't change the fact that books 1-3 were some of the finest novels ever written. Notice i said novels and not just fantasy novels. The first 3 books can stand toe to toe with any 3 novels ever written.
One of my favorite series. GRRM will someday give it the ending it deserves. If you are looking for a series like it, have you tried Katherine Kurtz's Deryni series? I feel like it's a "primer" series for anyone who want to read GRRM. Kinda King Arthur meets X-Men. Definitely start with Camber of Culdi if you do for the most ASOIAF parallels.
Special book and special series. In 2002 I remember getting that trade paperback. I was 13, just finished Potter series (up to where it was) and wanted to really read something great. I can still remember the smell of the pages and feel of my bed when I read that first Bran POV. I don’t even know why or what it was about that beheading scene and the character of Ned and Jon and Theon in that first scene - but I felt great. I felt like I’d found my own special series. About 2 months ago I started a new re read and I’m up to Feast and it’s still incredibly special. As for Game of Thrones, I think that is pound for pound; scene for scene perhaps the most incredible book I’ve still ever read. Almost every chapter and scene pops off the page. Thanks for doing this review series. This was my number 1 series from 13-23 or so. I think only recently has First Law topped it in my head and my personal rankings/
Good ish Mike. I started the series back in 2011 along with the show but commuted long distances for a woman and lost my reading time as I grew into real adulthood..LOL. I just grabbed a special edition of the set in hardback and will read all 4 next year. I watched the series, and you are right. There are subtleties the writing captures that are totally lost in the series.
Mike, I'm a brand new subscriber to your channel and so far it is such a pleasure! I too love fantasy novels. I'm assuming you have indulged in the Eragon series by Christopher Paulini already? That is one of my personal favorites. Can't wait to see what you have planned for 2023!
Merry Christmas Mike! Thanks for another great year of your videos✌️ *edit: this vid was great, the ASOIAF books are the best of the best in the genre and an absolute must read even if you're not a fantasy fan, and ESPECIALLY if you've only seen the show because there is so much more to the story than the series portrayed. You did it justice with your take on the first book, thanks again Mike!
I finally started reading the series recently after being a huge fan because of the show for years. I've forgotten a lot of what happens after the first season so I'm excited to get past this first book. It is just as good as everyone says it is! I'm planning on hunkering down during this blizzard we're having up north to finish the first book. Which book in the series is your favorite? Which is your least favorite? If you had a tier list video of the Song of Ice and Fire books I'd be interested to see where you place them.
Can you make a video about what you're looking for in a fantasy book that makes it a 10/10 for you? It would help people who aspire to write fantasy books!
I agree. It’s a phenomenal book 1. Mike, when you reread this series, do you read book 4&5 sequentially or do you merge them and read them in parallel? I read the merged version and it’s my recommendation to anyone wanting to pick up the series. As one large book, it’s amazing. Much better than two standalone books, although I love both. Lastly, regarding that shocking death … when I finally accepted it, it dawned on me that book 1 is basically a giant prologue to the rest of the series. Great stuff. Great video.
I just don’t know if I want to start this series if it’s never going to be finished. I understand that its one of the most popular fantasy series of all time, but why would I want to read it if I’m forever going to be wondering how it ends?
It's worth reading even if it remains unfinished forever. If grrm said that we will never see the last book I'd still end up rereading them at some point
I know what you mean about packing so much into one book and how he has so much backstory. I remember reading it for the first time and had to check I was reading book one when I was reading the background about the fall of the Targaryens, it sounded dramatic enough to be its own book, same with the tourny at Harrenhal
Just finished reading this one yesterday and I had never watched the show! I only had a very vague idea of what happened in the show. Man, what a story. Its rare that a book will make me have such strong emotions towards characters. I hated the Lannisters so much that I had to take a break for a day! LOL
I've seen the TV show, but haven't read the books yet. Will be starting to read them probably in January or February and can't wait to do so. I'm looking forward to it so much! Are you going to review A Storm of Swords soon?
Awesome review as always, Mike. I would definitely love for you to make spoiler reviews for this series. I know you're not a fan of spoiler reviews but if there ever was a series that deserved one from you its obviously this one. So please make it happen. Im currently doing my first read through and I cant possibly agree more with what you've said in this video.
Great video! I always felt that the world in A Song of Ice and Fire was one of the characters! My wife said she felt the Iron Throne was also one of those characters.
Currently 90% through the book. Yeah it's as good as they say. I'm happy I started the series this month because hopefully I won't have to wait as long as you guys did for The Winds of Winter....maybe.
Nothing Beats this book and the 3rd one in fantasy for me. I've read most of the well renowned series and honestly none of them affected me nearly as much as asoiaf. I think FFC and a dance w dragons were fantastic as well and only really get hate due to how good the third book was. It's a shame we will probably never see a completed version of this series.
Started Fire and Ice in 1996 with "Game of Thrones", waited patiently for 2 years, then another two year and then... crickets for over 10 years and still not finished. Lost the story and all interest, tried again when I couldn't watch TV version, DNF and WNF. Hope you enjoy the series as a complete read. Good Stuff here.
This series is what truly shaped my love for reading. I started around 2016 having not read a book since high-school, I read the first 13 chapters in one sitting and I didn't think it was possible for a book to hold my attention for more than 30 minutes.
It certainly changed everything for me.
I'm currently going through the exact same thing! This book just grips you and doesn't let go
This series is just built different and it got me into reading fantasy. I’m reading The Stormlight Archive right now and loving it, but I have come to accept that A Song Of Ice And Fire is in a league of its own. The world is so well imagined that George could release a book about some random guy running a tavern and I would be enthralled. Even his random non pov characters and their dialogue are memorable. Whenever I feel a bit depressed, I pick up this series and it cheers me up.
Have you read the Kingkiller Chronicles? For me it's up there with my all time favorites along with ASOIAF, I know Mike doesn't enjoy the series as much but to each their own haha. If you haven't read em already (fair warning that there are only two books and a novella in the series so far, fans have been waiting ten years for book three but hopefully it's going to be released soon) then I highly recommend it
I read this series to become depressed haha. But it’s a great series
Its due to GRRM's almost unparalleled character work. He makes even characters with only a few lines in the books appear as real people in a way that even writers like Sanderson can not compete with.
@@bjornerluffy in the sci-fi realm, _The Expanse_ series is incredible, and IMO quite on par with GRRM. Incidentally, one of the co-authors worked as an assistant to George Martin for years. Read The Expanse if you love the character work of GOT.
@@Trepanation21 THE EXPANSE IS INCREDIBLE! This is one of the reasons why I liked it so much, although not quite as much as ASOIAF but still.
The Sci-fi realm is tbh a part of the fantasy genre, just focused on the future instead of the past, but with the same focus on creativity and "magic".
The author being related in that way to GRRM makes perfect sense
HYPE for the greatest series of all time reviewed by the greatest booktuber of all time.
Couldn't agree More!!!
Tru dat
@@B.LEE.DbrianleedurfeeREVIEWS Nah man ur the best booktuber of all time
It is not even finished !
I know this is controversial, but I found myself loving a Feast for Crows as much, if not more than any book in the series. I know not as much happens but it's so beautifully written and a brilliant installment where a conversation between two characters is the most exiting thing ever
I’m right there with you. My ranking is:
1. A Storm Of Swords
2. A Dance With Dragons
3. A Feast For Crows
4. A Game Of Thrones
5. A Clash Of Kings
Agreed, it's my favorite.
AFFC is my favorite as well. I really love the fact that it’s essentially half a horror book. And also yeah, very, very beautifully written.
Not controversial at all. FEAST is my favorite book of the bunch too. I still find it to be "action-packed", but I guess it does lack it comparatively. But agree, the CONVERSATIONS that happen in that installment is brilliant!
@@miyoko_17 yeah the conversations are enthralling. Kind of somewhat reminds me of the conversations in the Dune books. And despite the pace slowing down a bit compared to the first three books, shit still very much goes down in AFFC.
What happens in regards to Brienne is very, very wild and intense to read. I highly recommend Preston Jacob’s series he did about Brienne’s chapters in Feast. It reveals just how much detail and thought George put into her story in that book.
this video right here is the work of someone who truly has a passion for reading and books. the amount of imagination, effort and passion mike puts into this stuff is incredible. he's not here for a paycheck. this man truly loves what he's talking about and it's so refreshing. i will never not watch what he puts out. absolutely one of the best booktube channels out there and it's not even close.
Nailed it
He’s one of the few booktubers I watch for those exact same reasons. 🙂 Well said!
I only follow a handful of booktubers but Mike is at the top, along with one other channel called Bookpilled (he mainly covers old sci fi books) who describes plots and writing styles better than anyone I've come across. The two best channels for book fiends imo
I just read this for the first time ever and was so surprised how engaged I was even knowing everything that was going to happen from the show. The main characters to side characters with barely any page time all jump off the page with so much liveliness and distinctive personality. Also this does such heavy set up and world building while managing to be a complete and satisfying story on its What an awesome start to a series indeed!
I came to this series about 2006, which was coincidentally _juuuust_ before industry murmurs started about HBO potentially picking it up. I was deployed at the time, and my team leader let me borrow the first book because I didn't bring any books of my own. Absolutely captivated by the story, in my own bubble of escape while at war. While getting through the books that were available at the time, I got on Amazon and ordered the first book for my mom back home. She then ended up letting my best friend borrow each book as she finished them! That best friend ended up naming his eventual daughter (first and only so far!) Arya! All because a sergeant let a private borrow a book on the other side of the world 😊
Wow that’s a really cool story
dude your passion is so infectious and you're very articulate.
I appreciate that!
That’s an absolutely glorious wall of books
You've gotten me so hyped for rereading this book and series! I remember watching the first season of the show and wondering how anyone who hasn't first read the book could understand several details. Inspiring review! 🔥
Which details?
I'm curious.
@@madassassin5465 I don't remember specific details anymore, but when I watched Season 1 with my husband (who had not read the books), we paused several times so I could explain certain things. I think you can get enough of the story to enjoy the show-clearly, many have-but I still think it's more impactful if you've read the books beforehand.
@@Johanna_readsi figured that would be the case. I never watched the show but reading the books for the first time. Loving it so far. Fastest i read through a book since like middle school. Its definitely a page turner
I am reading this series for the first time, I have 0 spoilers from the show somehow. This book my favourite ever. Very excited, feelin' lucky.
Damn so you weren't curious to how certain characters looked or if the show changed any ages because of some content in the books? I got like 3 deaths spoiled for me 😭
I absolutely love these books. I'm so excited for these Game of Throne book reviews and it makes me want to pull it back off the shelf and immerse myself in this series again.
Confession, this was the book that got me into reading. First book I read cover to cover since High School so that was 18 years lol. I was thinking damn I just read the greatest and everything else will pale in comparison. Now Iam mowing down fantasy series and have found new loves but ASOIAF and Game of Thrones will always be my favorite. Awesome vid Mike.
Love to see the return of the dramatic reading intro and this is a good one.
I agree. ASoIaF is literally the best book series I’ve ever read. Like out of everything I’ve ever read. I could re-read these books over and over and over……
What I hate about ASOIAF is that it was the series that got me into fantasy and that, since then, I still haven't read anything that topped it.
It;s so readable and immersive and the character work is amazing, you really get to know who Cat, Ned, and Arya are. Distinctive and sad because you dont know whats going to happen next. You actually worry with Cat when Robb comes back from battle and you really feel sadness when Ned is sitting in that jail/dungeon. And best of all you get all the adventure/fantasy/worldbuilding stuff with Tyrion and Jon's chapters :)
Yes, all the characters truly have their own rich inner worlds. I love how the kids really have their own personalities too, their own worldview and how it changes over time
@@r21167fr, im still early on (so yeah the original comment is a mild spoiler lol but even googling a character's actor is a spoiler so...) and some of my favorite chapters are from the children Bran and Jon. Its crazy how each chapter really feels narrated by its character.
As someone in the acknowledgements :), I share your enthusiasm for the series and this volume in particular. I'll be rereading them in 2023.
I know some folks who are just refusing to start this series until GRRM finishes it. Thanks for articulating so well why it’s WORTH IT!
I can not give this series or GRR MARTIN the props it deserves because it will not be finished
Sad , Fire and Blood is an incredible book and A Knight of The Seven Kingdoms is so much fun
1,000%. Sad that GRRM has become so lazy that he wont finish the main series. Fans deserve better
@@seitavwhe's an old man, for god sake, hope you won't ever be able to retire
Seeing that Folio edition of AGoT always gives me Book Envy.
I finished this book today and it was an absolute delight! I found the meeting between Ned and Cersei in the Godswood, Mirri Mazz Durr dancing with her shadows in Drogo's tent, and Arya watching Syrio make his last stand were highlights!
Best series ever. I’m still doing annual rereads and it just gets better.
One of the best reviews I've ever seen and the hype is real. I'm starting this in January for the first time and it's what I'm most excited about in 2023. Thanks for this one!!!
I loved everything about this video!!! So pumped for the reread next month!! I had goosebumps during the introduction and hearing all my favorite quotes from the book!😊
Well, now I have to read it. I have only seen the first episode on tv because I don’t care to watch tv. I would much instead read. Your channel Mike is excellent. It has opened up so many new authors for me to try out. I typically read theology, and philosophy, but this year I have revisited fantasy from when I read the genre in my youth.
Just finished book 1. On book 2 now. First read ever with the series.
I finally read the first book this year and I loved it! I watched the show when it aired and I always wanted to read the books because I know there's so much more that couldn't possibly be included in the 8 seasons of the series. If you want to do a spoiler review, I'm super up for it! Something I wanted to mention about the writing is that even when I knew what was going to happen, George's writing made me cry, rage and laugh all over again. Looking forward to continue reading ASOIF :)
That was the first fantasy book I couldn't wait to pick back up. Tolkein was a chore sometimes with the pages and pages of describing the flowers 😅
i’ll be starting this series for 1st time soon im excited. im pretty new to fantasy and series in general ❤
That's so true about being able to identify POV's by reading a single sentence. Sometimes I lose my spot and its usually easy to find for this reason. Also, I'm glad you're going through this series. It's GOAT.
Can’t wait for you to do the rest of the series. And hell yeah, spoiler videos would be awesome
i am one of these first time readers with Johanna' readalong .. thank you sooo much for this video - i cannot wait to dive into GoT eventhough I only watched the show.
you did an AMAZING; FANTASTIC job with this video .. every minute screams passion for this book. love love love!
This reminded me how much I love this series!
Ser Mike, so thanks for this review. ASOIAF is the last big fantasy series I have not read yet. I was debating forever trying to decide if I should read it and putting it off because “it can’t be as good as everyone says!” Well, I decided to finally read the prologue of a game of thrones. Immediately I was like “well, guess I’m continuing!!” That was 5 days ago……..I am now 120 pages into a clash of kings 😂😂😂. This series is absolutely INCREDIBLE!!!! I have never experienced anything like this
Yes! It only gets better.
Yay! I’ve been so excited to see you discuss these books on the channel!
I vividly remember when I first discovered GRRM. It was 2005 & I was ahem* at work, lol, and found an excerpt of some novel called 'A Game of Thrones', where you could read the first chapter. Well, let's just say that I was hooked and fell in love with Martin's writing immediately. I texted my bf at the time, telling him that I just found this fantastic novel we need to find and buy STAT, and we did & both loved it.
For those who've read George, I also recommend his early works too, like Dreamsongs short story collections (some stuff from the '70s, I believe!)
Can relate to your "Sept of Baelor" moment 😂 I was in a freshman biology lecture of over 300 students when I read that part. It took everything I had not to yell out loud in that moment.
This book got me back into reading fantasy. Still love it!
Fantastic video, Mike. I appreciate you taking the time to explain that this series isn’t just solely nihilistic and heartless. Every few months I see somebody post that take on social media, saying it kept them from enjoying or even finishing the books, and I genuinely think they must have just watched the show. I have no idea how someone could read this series and completely miss just how much heart and hope and optimism exists in some of these characters and the overall story as a whole.
The books can be cynical at times, and sometimes very gritty, but the term “nihilistic” is honestly just soooo far off the mark. And I am very much down for a spoiler talk/review. This is by far my favorite book series, so I’ll take all the ASOIAF content I can get 😆
I picked up a box set of the current books at a thrift store in near perfect condition and I was so excited. I am looking forward to starting it next year.
I really like that there is still someone who appreciate this series regardless of it being unfinished, or the down fall of the Tv show.
Great review. I'm re-reading the series for the 3rd time, just started book 5 so sadly almost done and likely won't re-read again until a true release date for Winds of Winter, so probably another 4 years. In the meantime, this series is still amazing and once I finish book 5 for the 3rd time i'm going to try First Law and hopefully if the first three catch me I can continue on while we wait for book 6 of ASOIF haha
One of my favorite conversations in the series (I can't remember which book) is when Varys asks Tyrion that riddle about who holds power. I will never forget it.
You should make a video that’s just a compilation of all your intros. I think I’d die of happiness.
Spock would say that's only logical, and he'd be right. Except dying. Don't die of happiness. Live on in delight.
In college, this book and Fahrenheit 451 got me back into recreational reading. They also solidified the focus I wanted to have on reading sci-fi and fantasy.
I am currently reading this book, I am about 2/3 through.
I have probably DNF’d it four times. I am enjoying it better this time. I think I was dealing with TV series hangover.
I have the Omnibus ebook with all the books. I am not sure if I’ll read straight through or take a breather between books.
Literally started my re-read or ASOIAF today and then this pops up.. 💫☄️🗡
Great review! This is indeed one of the strongest first books in a series that I have ever read. George RR Martin gets a lot of criticism but the man is a fantastic writer. The characters are so compelling, too. I am hoping to re-read it and the other available ASOIAF books, and then read Fire and Blood.
Love the sweater, by the way! Thanks for sharing 😃
It's still wild to me how the book opens with a unjust beheading then Ned stark at the end......full circle!
I started A Game Of Thrones earlier this month and I’m almost done with it and it’s been amazing so far.
As much as I hate that GRRM sold out to HBO and probably won't finish the series, (I'm not even sure I'd finish the series if he finished writing it) it doesn't change the fact that books 1-3 were some of the finest novels ever written. Notice i said novels and not just fantasy novels. The first 3 books can stand toe to toe with any 3 novels ever written.
And now I want to re-read it immediately! You said it all! Well done, Mike! 👏 Love the Christmas sweater! Winter is coming 🐺
Reading Fire and Blood and getting the song of ice and fire series for Christmas! Can’t wait to read it!
Great intro, great sweater! Gets me thinking about a reread. Happy Holidays!
One of my favorite series. GRRM will someday give it the ending it deserves. If you are looking for a series like it, have you tried Katherine Kurtz's Deryni series? I feel like it's a "primer" series for anyone who want to read GRRM. Kinda King Arthur meets X-Men. Definitely start with Camber of Culdi if you do for the most ASOIAF parallels.
You're so close to 100k. I enjoy your videos greatly
That introduction was just amazing. Wonderful review.
Love the Christmas sweater. That's awesome!!
Yeah, it’s awesome. And super warm.
Great review! Makes me even more hyped to keep reading the series--halfway through a clash of kings right now
Special book and special series. In 2002 I remember getting that trade paperback. I was 13, just finished Potter series (up to where it was) and wanted to really read something great. I can still remember the smell of the pages and feel of my bed when I read that first Bran POV. I don’t even know why or what it was about that beheading scene and the character of Ned and Jon and Theon in that first scene - but I felt great. I felt like I’d found my own special series.
About 2 months ago I started a new re read and I’m up to Feast and it’s still incredibly special. As for Game of Thrones, I think that is pound for pound; scene for scene perhaps the most incredible book I’ve still ever read. Almost every chapter and scene pops off the page.
Thanks for doing this review series. This was my number 1 series from 13-23 or so. I think only recently has First Law topped it in my head and my personal rankings/
My favorite series. I think it is about time for another reread for me as well. Great video.
Good ish Mike. I started the series back in 2011 along with the show but commuted long distances for a woman and lost my reading time as I grew into real adulthood..LOL. I just grabbed a special edition of the set in hardback and will read all 4 next year. I watched the series, and you are right. There are subtleties the writing captures that are totally lost in the series.
“I was tired of reading Lord of the Rings over and over again”
HERESY!
I see the Ghost sweater😍
Mike, I'm a brand new subscriber to your channel and so far it is such a pleasure! I too love fantasy novels. I'm assuming you have indulged in the Eragon series by Christopher Paulini already? That is one of my personal favorites. Can't wait to see what you have planned for 2023!
when I read the first chapter of book one I was hooked there an then .. best fantasy I ever read 📚
Amazing intro Mike!! Best one yet! It would be great to hear your thought on the books with spoilers!
U can make all the content on ASOIAF u want and more. Hands down best story I have ever read and it´s not even done yet
Sick opening video Mike! I’m so grateful for this channel. Merry Christmas! 🎄🎁
I would love to see a spoiler talk! Great video! I just finished my reread this year and this made me want to reread again!!
Merry Christmas Mike! Thanks for another great year of your videos✌️
*edit: this vid was great, the ASOIAF books are the best of the best in the genre and an absolute must read even if you're not a fantasy fan, and ESPECIALLY if you've only seen the show because there is so much more to the story than the series portrayed. You did it justice with your take on the first book, thanks again Mike!
Awesome sweater!!❤
I finally started reading the series recently after being a huge fan because of the show for years. I've forgotten a lot of what happens after the first season so I'm excited to get past this first book. It is just as good as everyone says it is! I'm planning on hunkering down during this blizzard we're having up north to finish the first book. Which book in the series is your favorite? Which is your least favorite? If you had a tier list video of the Song of Ice and Fire books I'd be interested to see where you place them.
Hands down you have the best intros to your reviews.
Appreciate that!
Can you make a video about what you're looking for in a fantasy book that makes it a 10/10 for you? It would help people who aspire to write fantasy books!
I agree. It’s a phenomenal book 1.
Mike, when you reread this series, do you read book 4&5 sequentially or do you merge them and read them in parallel?
I read the merged version and it’s my recommendation to anyone wanting to pick up the series.
As one large book, it’s amazing. Much better than two standalone books, although I love both.
Lastly, regarding that shocking death … when I finally accepted it, it dawned on me that book 1 is basically a giant prologue to the rest of the series. Great stuff.
Great video.
I just don’t know if I want to start this series if it’s never going to be finished. I understand that its one of the most popular fantasy series of all time, but why would I want to read it if I’m forever going to be wondering how it ends?
Because it’s very good and entertaining
It's worth reading even if it remains unfinished forever. If grrm said that we will never see the last book I'd still end up rereading them at some point
bro just read it, its fucking insane
I know what you mean about packing so much into one book and how he has so much backstory. I remember reading it for the first time and had to check I was reading book one when I was reading the background about the fall of the Targaryens, it sounded dramatic enough to be its own book, same with the tourny at Harrenhal
Just finished reading this one yesterday and I had never watched the show! I only had a very vague idea of what happened in the show. Man, what a story. Its rare that a book will make me have such strong emotions towards characters. I hated the Lannisters so much that I had to take a break for a day! LOL
This was great, thank you!
Words to live by, Mike! Merry Xmas!
Awesome intro Mike, keep up the good work 👌
I've seen the TV show, but haven't read the books yet. Will be starting to read them probably in January or February and can't wait to do so. I'm looking forward to it so much!
Are you going to review A Storm of Swords soon?
Yes yes yeeees! This book is just amazing
A song of ice and fire holds a special place in my heart. Wish it would finish but oh well lol
Great video, Mike….I’d love a spoiler discussion in whatever format works for you.
Commenting twice for the algorithm cause I really want this video to do well
Awesome review as always, Mike. I would definitely love for you to make spoiler reviews for this series. I know you're not a fan of spoiler reviews but if there ever was a series that deserved one from you its obviously this one. So please make it happen. Im currently doing my first read through and I cant possibly agree more with what you've said in this video.
Great video! I always felt that the world in A Song of Ice and Fire was one of the characters! My wife said she felt the Iron Throne was also one of those characters.
Currently 90% through the book. Yeah it's as good as they say. I'm happy I started the series this month because hopefully I won't have to wait as long as you guys did for The Winds of Winter....maybe.
Got to agree it was a very satisfying read.
Fantastic review Mike. Yes, bring on more ASOIAF content! Discussions with other booktubers would be awesome. Cheers mate.
Greatest series of all time.
The introduction to the series alone made this video great.
Nothing Beats this book and the 3rd one in fantasy for me. I've read most of the well renowned series and honestly none of them affected me nearly as much as asoiaf. I think FFC and a dance w dragons were fantastic as well and only really get hate due to how good the third book was. It's a shame we will probably never see a completed version of this series.
I feel about these books how most people feel about lotr. It's just so good from front to back.
I was gifted the GOT series 😄 love your sweater Mike
Started Fire and Ice in 1996 with "Game of Thrones", waited patiently for 2 years, then another two year and then... crickets for over 10 years and still not finished. Lost the story and all interest, tried again when I couldn't watch TV version, DNF and WNF. Hope you enjoy the series as a complete read. Good Stuff here.
Awesome review as always!