Song of Fire and Ice

I might have mentioned this series before, but I will repeat my admiration for George R. R. Martin's book series that begins with Game of Thrones. The series is set in a fantasy world that is much like Medieval Europe with a touch of magic thrown in. I appreciate the depth and history Martin has given to the world.

Martin's world created here is one of Tolkien grounded in reality. Instead of elves, men and dwarves of differing backgrounds you have the men and women of Lannister, Stark, Tully and Targaryen. Each of these noble houses have a history, a personality and make for a colorful world. While Tolkien's stories are from the heroic epic tradition, this world shines from the unexpected turns derived from the machinations of the various characters.

The heroic epic fantasy focuses on a relatively few characters, but Martin's characters are wildcards. You can never be sure who will become the next major character or who will meet an untimely end. Being a protagonist in this series is dangerous and the reader is all the better for it.

So, there is my say on a favorite book series. the only drawback is that it takes a lot of time to get a book turned out, but the 5th in the series hopeully will be out this year.