A Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire, #1)

Having watched and loved (for the most part) the TV show, I have embarked on the books. I expected them to be better and so far this has been true. The added details, foreshadowing, and excellent general writing are all a joy.

Already having a face for the names helps, except in the cases where the show and book differ, then it's hard to break out of the images in my head.

Even knowing all major plot points I remained gripped, shocked, and enthralled. Reading along with the History of Westeros podcast really adds to the experience too.

The world and stories created here, so close to episodes and peoples from our past sucks history nerds like me in, the brilliant storytelling keeps me coming back for more.

I was inspired by the show to try out the fantasy genre, I was disappointed with Gene Wolf's The Shadow of the Torturer, but thoroughly enjoyed The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss. Even without my priming I am sure I would have considered this a class above.