Saturday, February 23, 2013

A Storm of Swords

I just finished reading A Storm of Swords by George R. R. Martin.

I found I enjoyed reading this more than the previous two in the series. Most obviously because I had not seen the TV series, and had no idea what was going to happen. This gives all the reveals and twists their full horrifying or fantastic impact. This is the real beauty of Martin's work, in that just because you have built up a strong empathy with or appreciation for, or even massive hatred of a given character, it has no bearing on their longevity or fate. You read with really no idea what will happen, which is sadly missing from many novels which you read really to find out how the end is achieved, knowing really where it is going most of the time.
The language and detail remains impressive and beautiful. The dedication to character building regardless of fate likewise.
Part two in particular is filled with OMFG moments and was so much fun to read.
I look forward to reading the rest, but will do so just leading the TV series. For now it's back to SF.