The first book in the masterpiece of George R. R. Martin, the Game of Thrones was first published on August 6 1996. It belongs to the series A Song of Ice and Fire and follows the adventures of the different clans of Westeros as they try to battle and scheme for control over the Seven Kingdoms and the Iron Throne.

While the genre and the general plot are in itself familiar to fans of these types of novels, what really set this book apart are its characters. Any Game of Thrones Review worth its salt is sure to recognize that Martin's genius is in his construction of complex characters which truly feel alive. All of the players in the novel, whether they be the barbarian Khal Drogo or the honorable Ned Stark, are all shown with their humanity clearly displayed. The author depicts them with so much detail and background that there is no real protagonist or antagonist in the story and in the common understanding of the terms.  Furthermore, simultaneous plots are started and defined leaving the reader equally interested at what is going to happen and how it develops. Despite it obviously being a fantasy, it reflects so much of reality in the sense that no one character is all good or all bad. Even the duty bound and upright Ned Stark may be criticized as being too naïve and incapable of grasping the delicate game of politics when he reaches Kings Landing and is eventually outmaneuvered. Jaime Lannister, who at first can be easily characterized and dismissed as an antagonist because of his actions and desire for personal glory, shows hints of virtue in the way he wishes to win a clean fight and in his obvious concern for his brother, Tyrion's, capture. Nuances such as these are what makes the story, and ultimately the plot into a complex, interesting and ultimately addictive narrative. It is a real page turner that leaves you wanting for more.

The tale starts with Lord Eddard Stark of Winterfell, protector of the northern border of Kings Landing, being summoned and appointed as the Hand of the King. The ruling King at this time is Robert Baratheon, Ned's closest friend, who became the king by rebelling against King Aerys Targaryen II in what is called the War of the Usurper. Eddard Stark is conflicted as he is torn between doing his duty as the King commands and leaving his beloved home of Winterfell. He is a soldier through and through and is not familiar with the game of politics that plagues the capital. This is the starting point of the story as well as the beginning of the conflicts wherein all the major characters are slowly and carefully introduced. They are shown with their attitudes displayed and their motives hidden. It is a carefully woven tale where plotting and counter plotting abounds, all with the intention of seizing control and eventually laying claim to the Iron Throne.

The Lannisters, the Baratheons, the Arryns, the Starks, the Targaryens and other more minor characters all come into play mixing realistic medieval encounters with more of the graphic imagery of fantasy that is filled with swords and dragons. In the end, they are somehow maneuvered into calculating and precise positions under the masterful guidance of GRRM, who makes a cohesive and solid whole.