I finished A Storm of Swords last week and it may be one of the best books I've read in a long time (certainly the best fantasy book I've read si nce LOTR). The book encompasses so many major events it is insane. From the weddings to Jon Snow become the Lord Commander to Tyrion's escape. Imo though what makes this book special is how it balances out the fast paced action with excellent character development.
Jaime Lannister certainly has one of the best character arcs in all of fantasy. His chapters after loosing his hand are a work of art. The reader gets a constant glimpse of his inner turmoil, his guilt and his desire to be a better person. The steam room scene with Brienne, his dream where his family and friends forsake him leaving him for the darkness. I also loved the fact that no hero here is purely white be it Jon Snow or Melisandre who is ready to sacrifice people to save humanity a noble cause but at what cost.
There were also other moments like the two weddings and Lyasa's confession (which cleared up a lot about LittleFinger, man was a mystery to me till then.)
The book even has great action sequences with the Oberyn vs the mountain being the most memorable.
I think this is one of those books which I will reread throughout my life. It's just unforgettable.
by Risb1005
2 Comments
All of the books in the *A Song of Ice and Fire* series are phenomenal. Such well written characters and amazing world-building.
Been chasing the high of this book since I first read it in 2010, and very little has come close.
Now you understand why everyone is so frustrated waiting for the series to end….