A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin is the first book of the international bestselling epic fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire Audio Book. It was published on August 6, 1996 and it has been almost 17 years, but all throughout it has received praise and critical acclaim. This is definitely not the first time you have heard of this title. If you have not read or watched the series, I bet you are wondering, what is the fuss all about?
As part of the subgenre epic fantasy, A Game of Thrones is set in an imaginary world rather similar to the medieval Arthurian age, only it has fantastical elements such as dragons, magic, and dark and ancient creatures that are yet to be uncovered. In the land of Westeros, there is a terrible power struggle among high-born families, all of which desire to have their own way. Lord Ned Stark of Winterfell is caught in the middle of these conflicts, and as he begins to discover horrible truths about the wealthy and powerful House Lannister, he also begins to put he and his family in danger.
In the East of Westeros, Daenerys Targaryen is determined to return to Westeros and reclaim the throne which rightfully belongs to House Targaryen. However, beyond the wall protecting the land, there are rumors arising about dark and ancient creatures far more threatening than any king, lord, or house. As the story unfolds, violence, politics, sexuality, love, death, and moral ambiguity are only a few of the themes that surfaces in the beginning of this powerful and excellently written story.
A Game of Thrones received the Locus Award in 1997 and was also nominated for the Nebula Award and World Fantasy Award in the same year. More than a decade later, in July 2011, it reached #1 in the New York Times bestseller list. On top of all the awards, the series A Song of Ice and Fire was adapted into a TV series by HBO called Game of Thrones. Written and produced by David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, the first season premiered on April 17, 2011. Since then, it has received positive critical response and universal acclaim.
As the writer of the series, George R.R. Martin has also received much praise for his work. He was acclaimed as one of the most influential people in the world, being included in the Time 100 list of 2011. While still continuing to write the book series, he is also currently one of the screenwriters of the television series along with the David Benioff and D.B. Weiss.


