Martin, George R.R: A Game of Thrones (buddy read revisit) Start Date: December 2, 2013 [A Song of Ice & Fire #1] - revisit Sep 12th, 2015 - revisit May 2017 **REVISIT** June 2018

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

This topic is open for discussion of A Game of Thrones by George R.R.Martin

BE PREPARED FOR SPOILERS

What is a buddy read?

About this Buddy Read
A “Relaxed Buddy Read” is similar to our usual “buddy reads” except there are less questions and break points. For example, a book may be split into three sections and those reading the book should pause at the end of the section to answer some discussion questions, make comments, or ask their own questions to other readers

Synopsis
Long ago, in a time forgotten, a preternatural event threw the seasons out of balance. In a land where summers can last decades and winters a lifetime, trouble is brewing. The cold is returning, and in the frozen wastes to the north of Winterfell, sinister and supernatural forces are massing beyond the kingdom’s protective Wall. At the center of the conflict lie the Starks of Winterfell, a family as harsh and unyielding as the land they were born to. Sweeping from a land of brutal cold to a distant summertime kingdom of epicurean plenty, here is a tale of lords and ladies, soldiers and sorcerers, assassins and bastards, who come together in a time of grim omens.

Here an enigmatic band of warriors bear swords of no human metal; a tribe of fierce wildlings carry men off into madness; a cruel young dragon prince barters his sister to win back his throne; and a determined woman undertakes the most treacherous of journeys. Amid plots and counterplots, tragedy and betrayal, victory and terror, the fate of the Starks, their allies, and their enemies hangs perilously in the balance, as each endeavors to win that deadliest of conflicts: the game of thrones

A Song of Ice and Fire Seasonal Challenge
This is the first book in a challenge to read the series. If you want to join, you can sign up here

You do not need to be part of the challenge to join this buddy read. Everyone is welcome!


Reading Schedule:

Date Chapters
December 2 Prologue - 7 (Arya)
December 5 8 (Bran) - 15 (Sansa)
December 8 16 (Eddard) - 23 (Daenerys)
December 11 24 (Bran) - 31 (Tyrion)
December 14 32 (Arya) - 39 (Eddard)
December 17 40 (Catelyn) - 47(Eddard)
December 20 48 (Jon) - 55 (Catelyn)
December 23 56 (Tyrion) - 63 (Catelyn)
December 26 64 (Daenerys) - 72 (Danerys)

Here are the chapter divisions so you can all stay in sync:

Prologue - pages 1 - 11
Chapter 1 - Bran - pages 13 - 21
Chapter 2 - Catelyn - pages 22 - 27
Chapter 3 - Daenerys - pages 28 - 38
Chapter 4 - Eddard - pages 39 - 48
Chapter 5 - Jon - pages 49 - 57
Chapter 6 - Catelyn - pages 58 - 67
Chapter 7 - Arya - Pages 68 - 75
Chapter 8 - Bran - pages 76 - 85
Chapter 9 - Tyrion - pages 86 - 92 
Chapter 10 - Jon - pages 93 - 98
Chapter 11 - Daenerys - pages 99 - 108
Chapter 12 - Eddard - pages 109 - 117
Chapter 13 - Tyrion - pages 118 - 127
Chapter 14 - Catelyn - pages 128 - 138
Chapter 15 - Sansa - pages 139 - 152
Chapter 16 - Eddard - pages 153 - 159
Chapter 17 - Bran - Pages 160 - 164 
Chapter 18 - Catelyn - pages 165 - 175
Chapter 19 - Jon - pages 176 - 189
Chapter 20 - Eddard - pages 190 - 202
Chapter 21 - Tyrion - pages 203 - 214
Chapter 22 - Arya - pages 215 - 225
Chapter 23 - Daenrys - pages 226 - 236
Chapter 24 - Bran - pages 237 - 249
Chapter 25 - Eddard - pages 250 - 258
Chapter 26 - Jon - pages 259 - 271
Chapter 27 - Eddard - Pages 272 - 282 
Chapter 28 - Catelyn - pages 283 - 292
Chapter 29 - Sansa - pages 293 - 304
Chapter 30 - Eddard - pages 305 - 323
Chapter 31 - Tyrion - pages 324 - 337
Chapter 32 - Arya - pages 338 - 350
Chapter 33 - Eddard - pages 351 - 358
Chapter 34 - Catelyn - pages 359 - 377
Chapter 35 - Eddard - pages 378 - 384
Chapter 36 - Daenerys - pages 385 - 395
Chapter 37 - Bran - Pages 396 - 409
Chapter 38 - Tyrion - pages 410 - 423
Chapter 39 - Eddard - pages 424 - 430
Chapter 40 - Caetlyn - pages 431 - 443
Chapter 41 - Jon - pages 444 - 451
Chapter 42 - Tyrion - pages 452 - 461
Chapter 43 - Eddard - pages 462 - 471
Chapter 44 - Sansa - pages 472 - 479
Chapter 45 - Eddard - pages 480 - 488
Chapter 46 - Daenerys - pages 489 - 500
Chapter 47 - Eddard - Pages 501 - 514 
Chapter 48 - jon - pages 515 - 522
Chapter 49 - Eddard - pages 523 - 529
Chapter 50 - Arya - pages 530 - 541
Chapter 51 - Sansa - pages 542 - 551
Chapter 52 - Jon - pages 552 - 567
Chapter 53 - Bran - pages 368 - 582 
Chapter 54 - Daenerys - pages 583 - 594
Chapter 55 - Catelyn - pages 595 - 606
Chapter 56 - Tyrion - pages 607 - 617
Chapter 57 - Sansa - Pages 618 - 627
Chapter 58 - Eddard - pages 628 - 637
Chapter 59 - Catelyn - pages 638 - 651
Chapter 60 - Jon - pages 652 - 664
Chapter 61 - Daenerys - pages 665 - 674
Chapter 62 - Tyrion - pages 675 - 693
Chapter 63 - Catelyn - pages 694 - 701
Chapter 64 - Daenerys - pages 702 - 715
Chapter 65 - Ayra - pages 716 - 728
Chapter 66 - Bran - pages 729 - 740
Chapter 67 - Sansa - Pages 741 - 750 
Chapter 68 - Daenerys - pages 751 - 761
Chapter 69 - Tyrion - pages 762 - 771
Chapter 70 - Jon - pages 772 - 784
Chapter 71 - Catelyn - pages 785 - 797
Chapter 72 - Daenerys - pages 798 - 807

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

This book was previously read as a buddy read, that discussion is here

The discussion questions from that read have been copied below:

Prologue through Chapter 3(Daenerys)

Some general questions:

1. Many fantasy stories have a "medieval" feel. They incorporate elements that seem or are very fitting to the medieval time period. Why do you think authors do this?

2. Tolkien was asked many times how WWII affected his writing of The Lord of the Rings. Was it allegorical? Tolkien always insisted that it wasn't. That being said, does Martin "mean" anything by setting the North vs. the South? Those things obviously "mean" something to us- the Civil War, North and South Korea, Vikings, etc.

3. For some reason, many epics start with an execution (or perhaps a death/murder). What is the author's purpose in doing that?

4. Does the direwolf, and her pups, appearance foreshadow anything? What do you make of the pups numbering the exact amount of Stark children?

5. The orphan is a powerful literary symbol. Especially historically where one's birth determined career, marriage, etc. Orphans are free to, sort of, create their own destiny. What, if anything, will Dany (Daenerys) choose to do to break with her "destiny"?
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Lisarenee's Questions for Chapters 4(Eddard) - 7(Arya)
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1. We now know what was so significant about how the direwolf was killed. The fact the antler was the means of death suggests the King, whose symbol is an antler, must somehow cause the death of Eddard (aka Ned) leaving his children orphans. The question is should this be seen as a warning as to what could happen or a prophecy of what is to come? What do you think? Knowing what could happen can the outcome be changed?

2. Knowing how close the King and Ned were do you think Catelyn was right to encourage her husband to become the King's Hand?

3. Do you think Jon Snow's jealousy of his siblings tureborn siblings will cause trouble in the future?

4. Were you surprised that Catelyn would ask that Jon either go with her husband or become one of the brother's of the Night's Watch?

5. Wall are usually put up for a reason. Any ideas as to why the Wall was put up thousands of years ago? Do you suspect it had something to do with the Others? What do you the the Others are?

6. What do you think of Tyrion's advice to Jon? "Never forget what you are, for surely the world will not. Make it your strength. Then it can never be your weakness. Armor yourself in it, and it will never be used to hurt you."

7. What character(s) do you find the most interesting so far?

8. Thoughts on why the Lannisters would want to get rid of Jon Arryn and then foster his son?

9. Sounds like Rhaegor did something to Ned's sister. Any thoughts on what that was?
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Lisa Kay’s Questions for Bran(8) – Daenerys(11)
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1) Before you found out what happened, were you apprehensive about Bran climbing all over Winterfall, especially when you discovered he was crawling the outer walls fraught with loose mortar? Did his direwolf cub’s growl cause you to have a sense of impending doom?

2) Did it take you long to figure out who the man and woman were whom Bran overheard? Did you surmise both their identities at the same time, or just one?

3) We learn from their dialogue that these two wished the King ill; did you think eavesdropping was an effective way to learn this? “That frighten cow shared Jon Arryn’s bed.” What do you deduce from this statement?

4) Since Bran is a POV character in this story, it would be surprising if he died so early in the story; therefore, what condition do you think he will be in after the push? (Any comments about the push?)

5) Were you surprised Tyrion slapped Prince Joffrey not once, but twice? What do you think his reasons were for emphatically insisting Prince Joffrey put aside his contemptuous attitude and seek out Lord and Lady Stark?

6) How much do you think Tyrion knows about the secrets of Queen Cersei and her twin, Ser Jaime, the Kingslayer?

7) How did you feel about Jon Snow defying Catelyn in order to say good-bye to Bran? Why do you think she told him about her prayers?

8) Forget Viserus’ brooding boorishness at the wedding; to me, Magister Illyrio seems overly invested in Daenerys’ behavior. Are his reasons of a pedantic, prurient, or purely solicitous nature?

9) Are the three dragon eggs gifted to Dany by Magister Illyrio still viable? If so, does he know this? Are his actions and gift-giving consistent with his moral nature and personality?

10) Looks like Khal Drago can only communicate to Daenerys with one word, but he uses it effectively, no? Comments.
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Sarah's Questions for Chapter Eddard (12) through Chapter Sansa (15)
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1. We've had a lot of speculation about Jon's parentage. Robert was with Ned the year he was away and mentions Wylla - Jon's mother. What do you think of this new development? If Wylla is Jon's mother then who was Ashara to Ned? Could it be that he had more than one affair?

2. We finally find out that Rhaegar did rape Lyanna. Does this change anything for you?

3. Ned advises Robert that "no one man should hold both the East and West". Do you think this could be foreshadowing something? Or is it just advice?

4. Does it surprise you to find out how Jaime Lannister got his nickname of Kingslayer? Also, what about Ned finding Jaime sitting on the Iron Throne?

5. What do you think about the young boys called "Rapers" being taken to the Wall? Does it shock you?

6. Does this sentence say anything important about the Lannisters? "The Lannisters took what was offered" (120). Think about it in reference to what Ned said about Jaime sitting on the throne. Does it change anything about Jaime Lannister?

7. What do you think of the bond between Jon and Tyrion?

8. Who do you think the man was, who was sent to Bran's room? Who do you think sent him? Why?

9. Many have shown dislike for Theon Grayjoy, how do you feel about him being allowed to hear what Catelyn has to say about the Lannisters?

10. Even after 15 years Catelyn does not consider herself to be a Stark. She tells Robb to stay at Winterfell because "there must always be a Stark at Winterfell" (137). Why do you think Catelyn chooses to exclude herself from being a Stark?

11. Is it significant that the "wilder" children look like Starks and the "tamer" children look like Tullys? Why?

12. What do you think about the fight between Arya and Joffrey? What kind of repercussions do you think will follow?
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Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 16 (Eddard) - Chapter 19 (Jon)
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1. Gah! They killed Lady and then Micah. I thought Micah would get off with just punishment not death. Did anyone see that coming? Wonder where Nymeria is? I love how the wolves are so smart.

2. Thoughts on Bran's dreams before he woke up? Do you think he'll remember everything? Do you think it was a dream or will he now see things? Could he have the same powers as Varys whom Catelyn referred to as a spider?

3. Do you think the Lannisters went to the wall so they could keep an eye on Bran's situation without being obvious? Why did they go to the wall in the first place?

4. After hearing about the Dagger being Tyrion's do you suspect he's more involved with his siblings plans then you may have previously thought?

5. Do you think Catelyn was wise to leave home?

6. So what are your thoughts on the mantra "Winter is coming"? What do you think it means? Could it be another way of saying be prepared?

7. Do you think it was a mistake for Jon to come to the Wall?

8. Initial thoughts of Donal Noye and the advice and the information he gave Jon?

9. Jon made an enemy. That cannot be good. Any thoughts on what Ser Alliser will do?

10. Do you think Tyrion is a "nice" guy or is he hoping to turn Jon against his family?

11. Bran named his wolf Summer. Does this mean he'll have something to do with them getting through whatever terrible events are coming?
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Vi's Questions for Chapter 20 (Eddard) to Chapter 23 (Daenrys)
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1. The treasury is more than 6 millions in debt . Did that surprise you? What do you think are its implications? Do you think that it is really 6 million in debt or was it made out to be to that amount?

2. Based on the chapters so far, what is your opinion of Robert? Were you able to get a handle on him?

3. Do you think the Starks were wise in trusting Littlefinger? Does Littlefinger still think of Catelyn favorably?

4. Do you think that the North and the Wall with its beyond is being taken too lightly? Due to the long summer, have people forgotten about it? What do you think of Mormont's request?

5. Tyrion's leaving the watch. Have you any idea/theory behind Tyrion's journey? Is it to analyze the strength/weakness of the Night watch if in case of war?

6. Jon seems to have heeded Tyrion's and Donal Noye's advice. And after Bran's news, he seems to have matured a bit. We also learn that Ben is also missing. And Jon's statement also seems to be some kind of omen. Has anything happened to Ben? Will Jon have to go after him?

7. Ned's advice to Arya is full of wisdom. Arya seems to understand that but what about Sansa? Will Arya and Sansa ever reconcile?

8. I was surprised when Ned had Arya taught "dancing" lessons. Were you surprised? Looks like this will shape Arya and Sansa's future. Agree or Disagree?

9. Oh Boy, I knew Dany would be ass-kicker if only given the chance. And Vicious had got what was coming to him. What do you think of that incident? Do you think that Dany will have a greater role as time goes on? Especially given the last scene in the chapter where Dany takes command?

10. Man, looks like the eggs might just turn viable. Are we going to see dragons? Does this have any significance more with Dany as the one who might "Wake" the dragon? Such an interesting possibility, isn't it?

11. And looks like Dany is pregnant (As an aside, so soon???). What will be the significance of the baby? And with the dragon egg on the other side as well?
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[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapter 24 (Bran) - Chapter 27 (Eddard)
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1) Were you caught up in Old Nan’s story about the last hero? Do you think there are still children of the haunted forest in the far North? How do you think Old Nan’s version of story ends; happy like Bran believes?

2) Why do you think Tyrion designed the saddle for Bran? Does his doing so assure you that he had nothing to do with the attempted assignation on Bran?

3) Why did the direwolves respond to Tyrion with such hostility? Summer was the first to start growling; what is the significance of that? Did this change your mind about Tyrion’s ulterior motives?

4) Any doubt as to which Robert was Jon Arryn was asking for on his death bed? Do you think he was poisoned, and if so, by whom? If it was by Queen Cersei, why did she leave the castle instead of assuring the deed was done and/or no information passed from Lord Arryn to the King Robert?

5) What did you make of Sansa & Arya’s dreams of Bran?

6) What was your first impression of Samwell Tarly; did it change any after hearing his life story? Did you agree with Jon’s thought that “it took a queer sort of courage to admit to cowardice”? What was the meaning of Jon’s dream of Winterfall?

7) Were you surprised Jon had Ghost partaken in straightening Rast out by leaping onto his chest? “Remember, we know where you sleep.” Impressed he used that variation on Donal Noye's words of advice? How close a bond has been formed between all these youths of the Night’s Guard?

8) What will be the consequences of Lord Stark giving up some of his own household guard to serve the Watch?

9) Who holds a vital piece of the puzzle for Lord Stark: Ser Hugh (formally Lord Arryn’s squire) or Lord Stannis (the king’s brother)? Who is more likely to part with this information?

10) What is the significance of the lineage book Lord Arryn was reading?

11) I can’t write better questions than what we ended with: “What had Jon Arryn wanted with a king’s bastard, and why was it worth his life?” Well, except to ask, which king’s bastard? (I mean which king, Robert?)
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Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 28 (Catelyn) - Chapter 31 (Tyrion)
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1. What did you think of Catelyn this time around? Do you think she did the right thing or should she have talked to Tyrion before having him taken into custody?

2. Do you believe Tyrion about never betting against his family? Did your opinion of him change? Do you believe him?

3. Did what Tyrion say make you think less of Littlefinger?

4. Sansa looks like Catelyn did when she was younger. She was receiving a lot of attention. Do you think Littlefinger would ever do anything to her? His attention seemed a little creepy to me. Anyone else think so too?

5. Did you think Prince Joeffrey would escort Sansa to her room? Do you think her opinion of him changed any because he didn't?

6. Why do you think the Queen was so upset? Is it because she likes to be the center of attention? Started picturing Snow White's step mother. I got a "Mirror, Mirror on the wall...." vibe.

7. Did you get a little nervous about Sansa being along with the Hound?

8. What did you think of The Hound's story about Ser Gregor?

9. Did you suspect the young knight that died would be the one Eddard wished to speak to?

10. If Littlefinger is lying do you think Eddard's in more trouble than you previously thought?

11. Varys' information was interesting. What do you think Ned will do with the information? Sounds like someone may be trying to kill the King. Anyone else wonder why after the King spilled his wine they were so insistent he have more? Could someone be trying to poison him or am I just getting a little wild with my thoughts?

12. Do you think Catelyn is more likely to listen to Tyrion since he saved her?
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Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 32 (Arya) - Chapter 35 (Eddard)
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1. Found all of Ayra's training to be interesting and fun. Were you surprised her father did not believe what she heard even after he found out Daenery's was pregnant?

2. Who do you think the two men were? I thought the one might be the Hound and the other might be Tywin, the Queen's father. He's still alive, right?

3. Did you agree with Eddard declining the office of the King's Hand?

4. Do you think Catelyn was wrong for going to see her sister? Why do you think she didn't travel back the same way she came?

5. What is with going to see all the King's illegitimate children? I still can't figure this one out. Though I'm disliking Robert more and more.

6. Gah! More death. Were you surprised that Jamie didn't kill Eddard? I think we'll see a lot more bloodshed before the book is done.

Vi's Questions for Chapter 36 (Daenerys) - Chapter 39 (Eddard)

1. How's your perception of Dothrakis? What do you think of them as a civilization?

2. Do you think Robb is correct in agreeing with Greyjoy's decision to call the banners? Do you think the Starks (well, some of them) can trust Greyjoy?

3. Did the men have some reason in coming so close to Winterfell?

4. With all the events that are taking place now, do you agree that Catelyn was wrong in going to Lysa place?

5. Tyrion took a very bold chance. What do you think he was trying to achieve?

6. Bah, Robert is soo not on my like-list. Now he wants Ned back as the Hand. What do you think of this?
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Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 40 (Catelyn) - Chapter 43 (Eddard)
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1. I now suspect Littlefinger is one of the men Ayra saw talking in the secret passage of the castle. His beard is pointy, and they talked about him having rings (page 440). Anyone else think so? Still unsure of his motives. Tyrion did say Littlefinger was out for Littlefinger. Maybe it's all for personal gain? Any thoughts?

2. I agree that Lysa is a bad influence on her son and he should be fostered. She seems slightly unbalanced. Anyone agree or disagree? She seems consumed by hate. I'm suspecting something more happened than just her husband being poisoned. Any ideas?

3. Loved that Jon tried to convince them to use Sam in another capacity and stop the torture of his training. Do you think they'll take his advice? I kept hoping he'd go home.

4. Tyrion's story of his first wife was shocking and sad. Do you think she really was a whore or do you think they would do that to her because she was undesirable for a wife of a Lannister? I kept struggling between the two scenarios. I'm guessing she was hired.

5. Tyrion is as smart as a whip. Did you think he'd be able to talk his way out of being enslaved? I guess he knows what drives people, but you also have to have some finesse in order to accomplish a change in thought.

6. I guess a medieval type tale isn't complete unless the villagers are pillaged? What do you think about all the chaos associate with the Lannisters? Do you believe it is the dastardly deeds of Jamie and his Motley crew?
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Lisa Kay's Questions for Chapter 41 (Sansa) - Chapter 44 (Eddard)
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1) Does Septa Mordane have reason to be upset that Lord Baelish/Littlefinger overheard what Sansa said her father’s decision regarding Ser Loras? (BTW, I think Lisarenee is right; he’s a little creepy now, stoking her face like that; do you? Though I did like what he said, “Life in not a song, sweetling.”) Comments.

2) Seems like Sansa has fully succumb to revisionist history and also a bit of arrogance. Do you think she will make a good queen? What did you think of her dreaming of Lady.

3) Interesting that Sansa brought clarity to Lord Stark by seeing Prince Joffrey by his true sigil. Still, now that her direwolf is dead, do you see her as more than just an observer? Or just someone unprotected?

4) Where you surprised Lord Stark desired to confront Queen Cersei with her sins b/f speaking with King Robert? What of his choice of location; did that have any impact on her speaking the truth? It didn’t seem to affect her propositioning him. Comments.

5) Did the horse heart eating gross you out as much as it did me (which was a lot!)? Were you ever in doubt of her keeping it down? Does the dosh khaleen’s prophesy reassure you of the safety of Dany’s baby? Were you surprise that Dany and Drogo made love in front of witnesses? Does this make her more Dothraki?

6) Were you worried about Dany and her baby when Viserys threatened her with his sword? Were you surprised with his "crown of gold"?

7) Oh, man! I thought when Lyanna was saying “Promise me, Ned,” in his dream we were finally going to get a few answers or clues as to Jon Snow’s paternity. Where are you on this speculation?

8) What were your observations and conclusions about King Robert's fight with the boar?

9) Do you think Ned should have told Robert about the parentage of Joffrey, Myrcella, and Tommen? Do you think his decision a wise one?

10) Do you think Ned’s letter will reach Lord Stannis? Is so, any idea what will happen?

11) What do you think of Litterfinger’s advice? Does this make you doubt it was him that Arya overheard? Was he just testing Lord Stark’s resolve? Or is he just keeping his finger in every pie and/or stirring the soup with it?
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Lisa Kay's Questions for Chapter 48 (Jon) - Chapter 51 (Sansa)
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1) Did you expect Jon to keep his role in Samwell’s assignment a secret?

2) Do you think Samwell’s taking his vows with Jon before the heart tree will strengthen their friendship?

3) If the the reason behind Mormont assigning him to the stewards was as Samwell stated, why was Ser Alliser smiling?

4) Do you feel Lord Stark should have said something about Prince Joffrey’s paternity when he called the small council together?

5) Ohhhhh…Litterfinger is truly a viperous snake! Did this surprise you? What are your thoughts about Janos Slynt? Will there be repercussions for Ser Barristan, the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, for his slight hesitation?

6) Did Arya learn enough from Syrio to survive and make it back to Winterfell? Will she be reunited with her direwolf on the way home?

7) Sansa! Will she ever get a clue? Can you see her parroting reflected in what other courtiers say in from of Queen Cersei? Where you as appalled as I was that she had revealed their planned departure to Queen Cersei?
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[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 52 (Jon) - Chapter 55 (Catelyn)
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1. Did anyone expect the dead men to come back to life? I did. Does that mean I've seen too many horror movies?

2. What did you think the hand going down the throat was looking for - soul or heart? CREEPY!

4. Did they say if anyone besides Jon survived? There was another zombie that he didn't deal with. Wonder what happened to him...but do I really want to know???????

3. Was anyone surprised that so much time had passed? I didn't think it'd been a full year.

4. Anyone else thinking Catelyn is a bad mom? Why is she not going home to her two youngest kids? I understand her brother's in trouble and her father is dying, but she has kids. I can't fathom being away from my kids that long.

5. Interesting that Rob's first reaction to Sansa's letter was "What's wrong with that girl." and not "They must have forced her to write this." What do you think?

6. Bran's statement about Sansa loosing her Wolf makes me wonder how close those wolves are tied to the children. Seems like there could be another story just about that.

7. Speaking of Bran, I feel so bad he can't be healed. I kept hoping he could. He's struggling so much with what he can do and what he would have been able to do. Any thoughts?

8. Looks like raising the banners was a good choice on Robb's part. I still don't like him going to war.

9. So there is a dilemma is getting the father more important than trying to defeat the Others. Which do you think they should have done first?

10. Dany and her husband were almost poisoned. Did you think it odd that Ser Jorah thought the wine was tainted? Could he have set it up to persuade Kahl Drago to wage war on the Seven Kingdoms?

11. Do you think that Dany and the Starks might become allies?
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Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 56 (Tyrion) - Chapter 59 (Catelyn)
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1. We now know that the mantra of the Lannisters is "Hear Me Roar." What is your opinion of it? I think it is not all that inventive or great.

2. Tyrion is finally back home. What did you think of the interaction between him and his father? I'm not feeling the love.

3. Anyone wondering how Tyrion's newly formed motley crew will effect the games (game of thrones that is), or do you think Tyrion's father will kill them? Could insisting that Tyrion was theirs until they were compensated lead to their downfall?

4. Bronn saved Tyrion's butt, but it sounded like Tyrion didn't have a high regard for him. He brought up the fact he'd changed sides. Anyone surprised by this?

5. Sansa. What can I say? Anyone else like to smack some sense into her? Anyone else surprised she is still considered engaged to the young King? Do you think he likes her? I was a little confused by it until I read Eddard's chapter.

6. I must confess, I was a little afraid to read chapter 58. I didn't see any other Eddard chapters. I feared our relationship with him had come to an end. Anyone else relieved it wasn't? Do you think he'll cave in because of Sansa?

7. So as I and I believe a few others of you suspected, Catelyn didn't fully believe herself a Stark. I'd think that after 5 children and several more years of being married to her husband she'd have felt she was a Stark. Anyone else think she really had a problem with her husband's infidelity? Could that be the reason?

8. What did you think of the agreement Catelyn reached with Lord Frey? That was an awful lot to ask for passage.
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Lisa Kay's Questions for Chapter 60 (Jon) – Chapter 63 (Catelyn)
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1) Uncle Benjen is still missing; what are the odds that he’s going to come back as a Zombie Leader and fight Jon Snow? Or am I totally barking up the wrong tree here?

2) Something more than WOW! for the end of Chapter 60? Was it the biggest surprise of the story for you? If not, state your biggest surprise thus far.

3) Let us say, for the purpose of this question, our suspicions about Jon Snow being the love child of Rhaegar and Lyanna are correct (of course, if they married, then he’s a Prince, right?). Question: Having read the Old Bear’s reveal, what do you make of him gifting Jon with Longclaw?

4) Daenerys has no stomach for rape or slavery. When Ser Jorah tells Dany she is like her oldest brother, Rhaegar, we get a completely different picture of him. Comments on either of these statements?

5) First impressions on Mirri Maz Duur? Do you think there will be consequences to their burning the temple?

6) What do you think of Lord Tywin placing Tyrion and his wild “motley crew” in the vanguard? Do you believe Tyrion knows exactly what his father is doing? Do you think that there are limits on what a person can forgive?

7) Was Tyrion’s defeat of the knight intelligence or luck? Were these battle scenes either too long or too graphic for you or were you too caught up in the telling to notice?

8) Were you impressed that Lord Robb Stark was more cautious than Lord Tywin expected?

9) What are the Starks are going to do with Jaime? Surely not let this Lannister brother go as easily as the first.

10) Any change from your initial impression of Theon Greyjoy? Quote: “And Lord Tywin?” Catelyn interrupted. “Have you perchance taken Lord Tywin, Theon?” Catelyn asks an eloquent question of him. How is his arrogance different from Jamie’s?
(hide spoiler)]

Questions for Chapter 64 (Daenerys) – Chapter 67 (Sansa)
(view spoiler)[

1. Wow! So much going on. Do you think Daenerys' husband will survive and if so will he still be human? This whole blood magic sounds a little scary. I can't believe so much could happen in one Chapter.

2. Eddard did die after securing his daughter's place. I frankly, wouldn't have believed they would have kept her safe. I figured once he was gone she would be exterminated (Sorry Doctor Who going on in the background). What did you think? Surprised she's still engaged? (I sound like a broken record, huh?)

3. Sansa finally gets it, and you called it Lisa Kay, she's getting smacked around. Anyone surprised? Apparently Joffrey sees heads as appropriate tokens of affection - how romantic NOT!

4. Has anyone taken notice of all the Sigils being presented? There are unicorns, bears, fish, lions, deer, wolves, golden roses, Falcons, dragons, kraken, etc Which would you want for your Sigil? Which is the least appealing? Which would you like to see come to life in the book? I hope this mean more of the sigils will come to life in the book. I want to see kraken and unicorns.

5. Okay not that I've taken a slight road trip I'll get back on track. Ayra has been surviving on the streets around the castle. Do you think Yoren from the wall will harm her? He seemed a little rough with her.

6. Anyone else think they'd find something on Jon's parentage in the family crypts? Were we totally wrong?

7. Osha looks like she may play a more key role than I previously would have thought. Anyone else surprised?
(hide spoiler)]

Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 68 (Daenerys) - Chapter 72 (Daenerys) LAST SET OF QUESTIONS
(view spoiler)[

Oh, My Gah! Sooooo much happened at the end. Must get next book NOW!

1) You called it Lisa Kay there were repercussions from burning down the temple. Mirri Maz Duur was a witch to do that to Dany. Dany tried to help in the only way she could and Mirri Maz Duur took everything away. Did you expect her to kill Dany's baby? I kind of wondered if that was the life she was referring to when she said there had to be a blood sacrifice. I kept hoping he was still alive. That maybe she just took him like Rumplestilskin wanted the princess' baby. Dang!

2) What did you think of the dragons suckling off Dany and her being unscathed by the fire? Why do you think her brother wasn't immune to the fire?

3) They want Robb to be king. Did you see that one coming? I still mourn for Eddard. *sniff* I still like Jon more than Robb.

4) There appears to be no going back for Jon. He either stays at the wall or he dies. Anyone else disliking that? The way the Old Bear talked I thought there were times when they could leave.

5) Out of curiosity, those of you of the *cough* "weaker" *cough* sex like me, would you have sided with the peace that Catelyn proposed or are you of the "off with their heads" crew? Okay, I'm somewhere in between.

6) Tyrion finally is acknowledged by his father as his son. Jamie is being talked poorly of. The Lannister family secret (all of Cersei's children being Jamie's) has still yet to be revealed. Were any of these things surprising? How do you think Tyrion will act. What do you think of his thought of taking his whore (why do I always feel bad using that word?) with him? Do we know how old he is? I kept thinking it would be ironic if the "whore" turned out to be that long lost wife of his, but I don't think that would be possible. I'm guessing that happened a very long time ago and he'd recognize her.

7) Thoughts overall on the book? Will you continue with the next book? Anyone up for reading it soon? Any thoughts as to whether we should read the series (as it won as our next series read) like this buddy read - 4 chapters at a time?

8) A last minute add - Why have we not met Lord Stannis? I kept thinking we'd get to at least meet him in this book. He doesn't seem like he'd be that great of a King.
(hide spoiler)]

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

reserved

[Andrea]

Will hopefully be joining in on this buddy read!

[Lisa Kay]

Great, Andrea!

[Leslie]

I know I'm joining in. I can't wait.

[Lisa Kay]

Wonderful, Leslie!

[Becca]

I'm in. Told my husband about this and he was so excited LOL

[Lisa Kay]

Neat, Rebecca.

[Tonya]

I would love to join in on this read when it begins!

[Lisa Kay]

Great, Tonya!

[❀Tea❀]

So, I started it yesterday.
*grins*
December is just too far away. :D

I came to oh, s**t! part (view spoiler)[Bran, tower, ooops! (hide spoiler)] (I was in the bus and I really think that was my reaction. Let's just say I went out on next stop. :P)
Should I keep notes on the side and then join in here in December?

Impressions so far: too many characters to remember who's who and how they are related to others :P But I like it.

[Lisa Kay]

❀Tea❀, oh, no! LOL! Yes, that would do it. And, yes, there are tons and tons of characters in these books! Take notes. ☺

[Michelle]

❀Tea❀ wrote: "So, I started it yesterday.
*grins*
December is just too far away. :D

I came to oh, s**t! part [spoilers removed] (I was in the bus and I really think that was my reaction. Let's just say I went o..."

I was a little overwhelmed with the amount of characters introduced in the beginning of the first book too but they amazingly all tie in together in a way that makes it quite simple to remember them all eventually.

[Lisa Kay]

Yes... eventually. ☺

[Sarah]

❀Tea❀ wrote: "So, I started it yesterday.
*grins*
December is just too far away. :D

I came to oh, s**t! part [spoilers removed] (I was in the bus and I really think that was my reaction. Let's just say I went o..."

You haven't seen nothing yet. Many more "oh sh**t!" moments to come. Especially on A Storm of Swords. But this one too.

[Sarah]

Michelle wrote: "❀Tea❀ wrote: "So, I started it yesterday.
*grins*
December is just too far away. :D

I came to oh, s**t! part [spoilers removed] (I was in the bus and I really think that was my reaction. Let's jus..."
And Michelle the characters only grow and grow in numbers. I personally can't keep track. But I don't care - I still love this series.

[❀Tea❀]

Sarah wrote: "You haven't seen nothing yet. Many more "oh sh**t!" moments to come. Especially on A Storm of Swords. But this one too. "

I thought so. :P
Funny thing is, I kinda expected it to happened, and still was shocked when it did.

I'm also ashamed that I always laughed at people who were writing down characters as they met them in the book (any book). It looks like it would come handy here, especially as you all say, they will grow in numbers.

[Debbie]

I'd like to join in this read. Count me in!

[Lisa Kay]

Neat, Debbie! Welcome.

[Becca]

I had put in a request for this from my library, thinking it would take a while... but nope, it came in today. So I canceled it. I'll put in a request again around thanksgiving I guess. Crazy!

[Lisa Kay]

Yes, crazy trying to guess when a library book will come in. Good luck, Rebecca.

[SiMo]

I'm into this too! I already have the complete saga at home and now it's time to read it. December is also a great month to start!

[Lisa Kay]

Neat, SiMo! Welcome.

[SandyC]

I would love to read this again. This will be 3rd time. :-)

[Lisa Kay]

My goodness, Sandy!

[Maddie]

Yeah I'll read this again. It'll be my second time. Is there a reading schedule?

[Lisa Kay]

Super, Maddison! Oh. I guess we could put the chapter breakdown up, but the exact date isn't set yet. Maybe start discussing the date towards the end of November? See what everyone thinks?

[Maddie]

Seems good!

[[deleted user]]

i would love to join in.

[Lisa Kay]

Great, Karen!

[Jex]

Is there a specific start date for this? Or is it just read it sometime in December?

[Lisa Kay]

I think they decided to discuss it in November...

[Becca]

I saw this on the newsletter. Is it happening this month?

[Maddie]

Hope so haha.

[Lisa Kay]

It is starting sometime in December. You all need to discuss the date.

[Maddie]

Alright. I'd prefer late December.

[SandyC]

Any time in Dec. is fine with me.

[Tonya]

I'm good with anytime in December as well. :)

[Becca]

Anytime in December is fine for me.

[Maddie]

Awesome. :D Is late December alright? It's just I'm going to Japan on the 3rd December and I get back on the 20th.

[Becca]

Works for me just fine :)

[Maddie]

Sweet!

[Leslie]

Anytime in December works for me too

[Debbie]

Anytime in December is fine with me.

[Maddie]

Actually I might not be able to read this because I've lent my copy to my friend.

[Vicky]

I'd rather start early in December due to the holidays. I know not everyone celebrates, but it's a busy time of the year for a lot of people and I'd rather be able to get most of the discussion in before the holidays kick into high gear.

I think ~50 pages a day would be small enough that everyone could keep up and we could finish before Christmas if we start on the 6th. I don't think we're all going to start on the exact date anyway, so if anyone can't start until later they can always jump in when they have a chance to start.

[Amanda]

December would be best for me because I am very busy with NaNo this month. I've barely had time to read, what with one thing or another.