3/5 stars.
Paperback, 761 pages.
Read from September 10 to November 04, 2013.
Another solid novel by Martin. Admittedly though, I feel like I have become comfortable with Martin’s writing so there were not as many surprises in this novel as in comparison to the first one, which I suppose, is the be expected to some degree. Regardless, I am still enthralled with the majority of the characters and most of the plots. My only fear is that so many of these precious details that Martin puts into his work that make his stories unique and exceptional will be lost in the coming novels. He has been successful in not missing too many so far which has provided some enthralling twists but, well there are just so many details in this novel and as reader, there are some that I don’t easily forget. Such as with Ayra’s direwolf, Nymeria, who was released to escape death in the first novel, will she return to Arya? I’m hoping so.
I think what I can appreciate most and what I think Martin could attribute the success of his novels to is the expansive and intricate characters that he creates. Even for those who don’t care for fantasy can still appreciate a well-developed character. For example, you don’t know whether to love or hate some, whether their intentions are for the better good or for their own means or if they are truly as heartless as they appear because Martin gets inside each and everyone of his characters. You’re able to see just how human they are, with all their quirks and faults, and empathize with each in one way or another. The characters that are straight forward and innately likeable, Martin doesn’t seem to keep around for very long (ie. Eddard Stark). Even with this second novel alone, some of the characters have changed so much from the first and are starting to show their true colours (ie. Theon Greyjoy).
While I have enjoyed this novel and the one prior, I don’t know if I would continue them were it not for the fact that my boyfriend really wants to continue watching the television series. There is just so much out there to read and if I’m already feeling too comfortable with Martin’s work I’m hesitant to continue and dull the excitement. However, I just can’t stand watching something that’s based on a book without having read it first! Since I have now finished this second book we can proceed in watching the second season. I hope that Martin continues to deliver.
The Pluviophile Writer 