A Clash of Kings (A Song of Ice and Fire #2) by George R.R. Martin → Start Date: January 1st, 2017

[Kikijanika]

Anyone who's interested in reading A clash of kings by George R.R. Martin is welcome to join me and Alberto :)

[Alberto]

Super excited! i'll try to start making a plan to read it :)

[Kikijanika]

Awesome!

[Whitney]

I'll join! Do you have a reading schedule or how quickly you're wanting to read? How often to post?

[Kikijanika]

Great! Welcome Whitney :) We were planning on having a reading schedule but haven't settled on any specific schedule yet. I don't know if Alberto has started planning the schedule but suggestions are welcome :)

[Alberto]

Hey guys! I made this sheet where you can go ahead and edit your progress (there is a column with our names where we can add if we could make it or not to the planned chapter) :)

Of course you can also read at your own rate, but I feel like this is to make the whole book more easy to read :)

I hope we enjoy this book!

Link to spreadsheet:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...

Chapters:
http://towerofthehand.com/books/102/

[Kikijanika]

Ooh...so cool! Thank you Alberto! I'll start this tomorrow :)

[Whitney]

This is awesome! I will start tonight!

[Alberto]

Done with Day 1 :)

It's page 80 for me guys. It'd be interesting to see which page it was for you!

Prologue - (view spoiler)[ Wow. I'm definitely liking the dark vibe that Melissandre is giving. I feel like she will portray an important role in the future. She might also replace Lady Selyse in another book. Sad to see Maester Cressen die, but it was his undermining of Melissandre that did it. (hide spoiler)]

Arya - (view spoiler)[ Interesting to see how she is faring. I know that at some point she will be super manly (thanks, mainstream culture). Sad to see she got whipped and that her peeing (thanks GRRM) is limited. I guess he says it in order for us to experience the harshness of her surroundings. (hide spoiler)]

Sansa - (view spoiler)[ It's sad that she's trapped on King's Landing. I do admit it was kind of stupid to speak against Joffrey when she knows what could happen. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ Interesting character. I'm loving the way he speaks out to Cersei. He is, in my opinion, the wisest character that I have seen in these books. He knows his limits with his family and that the woman he sleeps with is just a whore, so he doesn't pledge full allegiance to her. I wonder what will happen to him. (hide spoiler)]

Bran - (view spoiler)[ He can be really childish and irritating. I hope his character gets better or that his dreams mean something. (hide spoiler)]

Rickon - (view spoiler)[ Okay... what about him? Is he an important character anywhere in this series? I feel that GRRM just put him there to remind us readers of all that Bran could've been if he hadn't caught the Lannisters. (hide spoiler)]

I know we've just started but (view spoiler)[ I really want to see what has been going on with Daenerys (my favourite character until now). (hide spoiler)]

As for the (view spoiler)[ war between the kings... we now have the King of the Iron Throne (Joffrey), the King of the North (Robb), King of Storm's End (Stannis), and I guess the King of the Highgarden area (Renly)? There's also Daenerys, but she's not really into it right now. (hide spoiler)]

[Kikijanika]

For me it's page 72. I'm just about to start reading!

[Alberto]

Day 2 done!

I'm on page 164 now!

Arya - (view spoiler)[ Wow. Her time with the men has been rough. Do you think that the pack of wolves she saw were commanded by Nymeria? Must have been if they didn't hurt her. Also... do you think she will find out that Gendry is the late king's bastard? Creepy woman with the missing hand. I will be thinking of "Pleeeeeeaseee" in a creepy voice for the rest of the book. (hide spoiler)]

Jon - (view spoiler)[ Definitely liked hearing from him. I like that he is focused on his vows and that he will *eventually* help Sam be who he has to be. I wonder if Sam will become a Maester some day. (hide spoiler)]

Catelyn - (view spoiler)[ Girl, stop worrying about everything. She worries way to much about Robb. Also, her dad could die pretty soon, whatever that means for the war. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ So cocky sometimes. I like his character, and I like that he is doing what needs to be done in King's Landing. I wonder when he will stop talking about his whores. Never, maybe. (hide spoiler)]

[Alberto]

I just found out that I actually did an extra chapter. So here it goes.

Davos - (view spoiler)[ I actually liked his point of view more than I thought I would. I think he is an interesting character. I want to know how far he will go for King Stannis. (hide spoiler)]

Melissandre - (view spoiler)[ Wow. Her powers of persuasion and deceit go over and beyond. It is amazing to see how she convinced Stannis to do the Lightbringer thing. (hide spoiler)]

[Whitney]

I'm on a work trip, so my internet time is spotty!

Day 1 was page 80 for me also.

Day 1: Prologue--Bran I

Prologue: (view spoiler)[ Such a shame to see Maester Cressen die that way. Melissandre has her Lord of Light on her side, so she definitely knew something was up. Stannis should have stopped Lady Selyse from making Cressen wear the fool's antler hat though, that was taking it too far. He just seems very cold and bitter--understandable though since Renly has also proclaimed himself King. (hide spoiler)]

Arya: (view spoiler)[ I agree with you Alberto, I think GRRM mentions (more than once) how she has to be careful about relieving herself etc. It's good to see "the Bull" aka the blacksmith apprentice being kind to her though. (hide spoiler)]

Sansa: (view spoiler)[ While yes, it is definitely stupid of her to speak up when she knows what will happen, I think it's just hard for her to hold her tongue, because she was raised in a way to be kind to others. I could not imagine being 12-13 and dealing with that abuse though, with no one to turn to. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion: (view spoiler)[Tyrion is my favorite character (male). Again, I'll agree with you, Alberto, he really is the wisest that we've seen. He loves reading and his wit is what gets him through is how I feel. I also like that he is completely kind towards Sansa, because she does need an ally, even if it is a Lannister. We've seen his kindness in book 1, and I think we will continue seeing it--along with his whoring around. (hide spoiler)]

Bran: (view spoiler)[ It's hard to remember that he is only 8, because I agree that he is completely irritating. I'm interested to see how his dreams develop and play out. (hide spoiler)]


So have you two watched the HBO series, or are you going into the books without any knowledge of what happens?? I'll be posting Day 2 thoughts soon!

[Kikijanika]

I just finished reading day 1 and I still hope to read day 2 today. I've been watching the series. How about you?

Prologue: (view spoiler)[ The prologue was interesting. I agree with you when it comes to Cressen's death. It was sad. Stannis seems just the kind of person Littlefinger said he would be (in the first book) - cold, ruthless and proud. About Melisandre...I haven't made up my mind whether she is good or bad. I thing it's hard to make sense of her. I don't remember the comet from the tv-series but maybe I just missed it. (hide spoiler)]

Arya: (view spoiler)[ Arya's one of my favorite characters as well as Daenerys, Tyrion and Jon Snow. What I like about Arya is that she's not afraid to be herself. Not everybody wants to be a lady or a princess. I hate the tough life she must face now but if anyone can face it, it's her. (hide spoiler)]

Sansa: (view spoiler)[ I disliked Sansa in the first book. She was stupid and selfish...well I guess she was only acting her age. Anyway, I still think she's not the most clever person but at the moment she's just trying to survive. I bet she will mature as the story goes on. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion: (view spoiler)[ Tyrion's one of my favorite characters in this series. I like his attitude and how he accepts himself as he is. He seems to have the only one with some sense in King's Landing. And he's also not afraid to speak about difficult things like the stupid decisions other people have made. He's a good guy and I thinks it's sad how his family treats him and that he should hide Shae. (hide spoiler)]

Bran: (view spoiler)[ Like you, I'm not really a fan of Bran. I don't necessarily find him irritating but just boring. He's character just isn't interesting. But I also wonder about the meaning of his dreams. (hide spoiler)]

[Kikijanika]

Oops...I read one chapter too many but I guess it doesn't matter because both of you are ahead of me :D

[Whitney]

I've watched all of the seasons so far--I'm definitely a fan. I decided that it was finally time to read the books because while there are a lot of similarities, a lot of stuff is different too! And there are more characters!

[Alberto]

I haven't watched the series at all! My favourite cousin and my dad are huge fans... Yesterday when I asked my dad if certain character was important, he went like, oh, he's dying in the show right now.

I might see the series when ( if ) I ever manage to finish the books!

[Kikijanika]

I've also seen all the seasons. I think it's a great show but some things really are different from the books.

[Alberto]

Done with Day 3!

Page 228 for me.

To be honest, this all (view spoiler)[ feels like a prelude to me. I feel that what we have read so far is just going to lead to the great war. I know this is how it is supposed to go, but I wish they'd show more action. This is part of the reason why I loved Theon's chapter, it was full of it! (hide spoiler)]

Theon - (view spoiler)[ Possibly my favourite chapter up until now in the whole book. I love his rebellious and cocky attitude. I love his plan to steal the crown for his father, although I was left a little intrigued at the end of the chapter as to what place they may be talking about. (hide spoiler)]

Daenerys - (view spoiler)[ I HAD BEEN WAITING FOR THIS AND I LOVED IT. I loved hearing about how the dragons were growing and about Ser Jorah's second wife. To be honest, I have always loved it when they tell stories of the past in books since they help me understand how the world is shaped and so. It's odd to think of Ser Jorah as Dany's lover. (hide spoiler)]

Jon - (view spoiler)[ Little chapter. Interesting to see that the men are cowering but pretending to be brave while Sam is the same and still calls himself a coward. What is happening to the villages? Is it the mysterious Others? (hide spoiler)]

Fun fact: Since I'm halfway done through the Lost show, whenever someone mentions the Others, I can just imagine the antagonists in that series (they are also called the Others).

Arya - (view spoiler)[ Jeez, things have been rough for her. I'm glad that they didn't sail into Harrentown since I feel most of the action will take place there. However, part of me wishes that she will leave those men and find a safe place. (hide spoiler)]

[Whitney]

Day 2:

Arya II--Arya III

Arya (view spoiler)[ Alberto, I don't know if the wolves were commanded by Nymeria. It would be really awesome if they were though! I thought maybe they didn't hurt her because they could tell she was from the North and that she was a Stark...or some other GRRM kind of way of doing it! She really is having it rough. I'm glad we met Jaqen H'ghar (the *nice* prisoner). (hide spoiler)]

Jon (view spoiler)[ Jon is one of my favorite characters to read about. I also like seeing how Sam is coping with being on the wall. I think it would be neat to see how many books/scrolls are there at the Wall for him to see. I'm excited to read about their quest beyond the wall. (hide spoiler)]

Catelyn (view spoiler)[ Yes, I totally agree that she is worrying too much about Robb. I get that he is 15, but in this series 15 is old enough to be married, a King, and a father! She seems SOO worried likely because he is her first born. If I were her, I'd be getting back to Winterfell to care for the little ones, Bran and Rickon. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion (view spoiler)[ Tyrion always has something up his sleeve. He seems like he really wants to bring Justice to King's Landing, but I feel like he will have trouble with that due to Cersei. (hide spoiler)]

Alberto: I LOVED LOST!!! And I totally had the same thought when they mention the "Others"!

[Alberto]

Lost is amazing!

As for Catelyn, (view spoiler)[ I think she sometimes forgets that she has other children to tend. Like... Bran can't walk and Rickon is too young. What's up with that? (hide spoiler)]

About to start day four!

[Kikijanika]

I'm almost done with day three but can't finish it today. I'll write more tomorrow when I've finished Day 3.

But I definitely (view spoiler)[ agree with you on Catelyn. I know Rob is his son but so are Bran and Rickon. Sansa and Arya she can't protect at the moment but I think she should be with the young ones. Like who leaves a boy of Bran's age to act as the Lord of the house? (hide spoiler)]

[Whitney]

Day 3:

Davos I--Arya IV

Davos (view spoiler)[ I enjoyed reading from Davos' point of view. I like that he isn't afraid to tell King Stannis exactly what's on his mind. It's what Stannis expects of him, really. I look forward to reading chapters from his perspective. (hide spoiler)]

Theon (view spoiler)[ Alberto, well Baylon talked about hatesss the Starks, so I'm thinking that's a hint. I'm not a Theon fan. He was super cocky about "the old ways" of the Iron Islands, when he hadn't even been there since he was 10. (hide spoiler)]

Daenerys (view spoiler)[ I had totally forgotten that after all that has happened to her, she is only FOURTEEN years old! I love her chapters though. It's like they are so far disconnected from what's happening in the Seven Kingdoms, that it is refreshing to read from her point of view. I agree, it's odd to think of Jorah in a "lover" role for Daenerys because he's so much older than her. (hide spoiler)]

Jon (view spoiler)[ I love reading his viewpoint and hearing from Sam too. I'm curious as to how many empty villages they will find. (hide spoiler)]

Arya (view spoiler)[ So much happening! I think it's great of Yoren to look out for her and tell her to leave, even when there is a battle going on. He got her safely out of King's Landing and wants her to live. (hide spoiler)]

[Kikijanika]

I'm finally done with day 3 as well! Page 206 for me.

I agree with you Alberto, (view spoiler)[ when it comes to the amount of action. Kind of feels like things have not really started yet. I knew to expect that, though, because I've heard more than one person say that nothing happens in this second book :D However, I haven't found the story boring at all. (hide spoiler)]

Theon (view spoiler)[ Theon's never been my favorite character. Not in the tv series and not in the first book. However, I liked this chapter where he returned home. It was interesting to see how things were going on the Iron Islands and how Theon was received. I think it's kind of sad his family does not trust him but I do get it. Also I find Theon's relationship with the Starks confusing. He can't seem to make up his mind whether he hates them or likes them. But I guess that's just natural because he was just a little boy when he was taken to Winterfell. (hide spoiler)]

Daenerys (view spoiler)[ Yay! A Daenerys chapter :) I'm glad to see how she's doing. I also think that seeing Jorah as her lover feels weird. And yes Whitney...I keep forgetting how young these people actually are...Daenerys 14, Sansa..what 13? Jon 16 etc. It's because they don't look that young on tv. (hide spoiler)]

Jon (view spoiler)[ I like reading his chapters. I like how he takes his vows seriously. Makes me respect him. (hide spoiler)]

Arya (view spoiler)[ Things are getting tougher for her but she seems to be doing ok. I'm glad she freed those men in the wagon. Bad as some them might be, I don't think they'd deserve to die that way. (hide spoiler)]

[Alberto]

I agree with you both (view spoiler)[ when I think about the characters. I was actually surprised when they said Bran was only 8! (hide spoiler)]

I couldn't finish Day 4, so I'm hoping to catch up in Day 4 and 5 today!

[Kikijanika]

I'm almost done with day 4. Ten pages to go still :)

[Kikijanika]

I finished day 4. It's page 278 for me.

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ I like the way he's handling things in King's Landing. He doesn't make a big show of it but just tries to make things right. He seems to be very clever and a capable leader indeed. I love it how he works behind Cercei's back and how he plays along with Cercei even though they both know that Stannis's accusations are true. (hide spoiler)]

Bran - (view spoiler)[ Finally he's even trying to do something else than complain. I wonder if he'll eventually remember who pushed him from the tower. (hide spoiler)]

Sansa - (view spoiler)[ Sansa's so stupid. She just can't stop thinking about the songs and stories she likes. Took me a while to remember who ser Dontos was but I got it eventually. I'm not sure if Sansa should trust him or not. I wonder if she sees that the Hound is not as bad he seems. (hide spoiler)]

Arya - (view spoiler)[ I feel bad for her and Gendry for being stuck with those other boys. It seems their yielding didn't do them any good. Anyway, I'm glad Arya decided to trust Gendry. They seem to have better chances if they stick together because they both have their strengths. I wonder if Weasel will reappear later. (hide spoiler)]

It's interesting that (view spoiler)[ so many characters in this book seem to only care about themselves. It keeps the story interesting because you can never know who to trust. People like Littlefinger and Varys, for instance, should never be trusted. Or at least that's what I think. They seem to be working on multiple plans all the time and only do what serves them best. (hide spoiler)]

[Whitney]

Day 4:

Tyrion III--Arya V

Tyrion (view spoiler)[I like how stealthy he is being. He's trying to figure out who on the small council is extremely loyal to Cersei and who he could "maybe" trust. I also love his relationship with Bronn. (hide spoiler)]

Bran (view spoiler)[ I can't imagine being 8 years old and having to play Prince, listening to gripes and complaints, while the other boys get to have fun. But I also think he is very smart for his age. (hide spoiler)]

Sansa (view spoiler)[ I don't necessarily agree that she is stupid. I think she is 13, alone and afraid in a strange place with people who are mentally and physically abusing her. So she thinks of things that bring her hope and happiness. (hide spoiler)]

Arya (view spoiler)[ I love her character and how much she is growing. I feel that she is only getting stronger. I enjoy her relationship with Gendry too. (hide spoiler)]

[Kikijanika]

Whitney, I guess you're right (view spoiler)[ about Sansa. I think I'm judging her too much considering her age. I'd probably do much worse if I was in her place...and I'm much older :) Bran's life also sounds very dull for an 8 year old! I still think he should concentrate on what he has and what's possible for him instead of clinging to his dreams of knighthood. But after all he's just 8 so it must not be easy. (hide spoiler)]

[Kikijanika]

I'm done with day 5.

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ So Cercei found out his plans for marrying off her kids. No wonder she was angry. I'm not sure the wildfire is a good idea. It's not good to trust something that untrustworthy. (hide spoiler)]

Catelyn - (view spoiler)[ I liked this chapter about Catelyn, mostly because it was nice to see what was going on with Renly and his people. It strikes me quite childish of him to lead such a careless life in the middle of the war but he's not really in the middle of the fighting zone, so maybe he can afford that. Also it might be good to give his people something positive to think about. At least I found it refreshing to witness their melee and feast when most of the characters are living in such grim circumstances. I also liked seing Margaery because I like her in the tv series. And Brienne as well. (hide spoiler)]

Bran (view spoiler)[ Poor Bran's life seems so boring but he seems to be learning things, though. I'm not sure those Frey boys are good company for Rickon who's already being difficult. However, it's understandable he's acting out considering he's basically lost his whole family at such a young age. (hide spoiler)]

Jon - (view spoiler)[ Such a miserable state to be out in the continuous rain. I like how sensible he is, avoiding fights and trying to do what's right. I think it was good he didn't promise Gilly anything because he might have just ended up breaking that promise. And he seems to take his promises seriously. (hide spoiler)]

Theon - (view spoiler)[ Theon really should be more humble. I understand he expected his homecoming to be slightly different but I think he should admit he's been away a long time and doesn't know things. On the other hand, it's sad he's not being treated better because it's not his fault he was sent to Winterfell. I like Asha. She's a strong character and she knows her worth. However, she's not looking down on common folk. I think Theon totally deserved what he got. He was being a jerk and she knew it. (hide spoiler)]

[Alberto]

Hey! I've been really busy to post but I hope I can tonight! :)

[Kikijanika]

Great! Can't wait to read your thoughts! I just finished day 7. I've finally caught up with the schedule :)

Days 6 and 7

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ He's very clever when it comes to dealing with people and making them do what he wants. If I should bet between him, Varys and Littlefinger I'm not sure who I'd put my money on. I wish there were chapters from Cercei's point of view. I think that'd be interesting because there is probably a lot going on in her head. When it comes to Joffrey, I've always thought there's something wrong with him. The kid is just evil! (hide spoiler)]

Daenerys - (view spoiler)[ Qarth seems like a pretty place and I'm glad she got her Khalasar to temporary safety. But I think she's in a position where she should really trust no one. (hide spoiler)]

Bran - (view spoiler)[ I wonder why he's so afraid to talk about his dreams to anyone. I like Meera and his brother (can't remember his name right now). I hope they make Bran deal with his dreams. (hide spoiler)]

Arya - (view spoiler)[ Arya's life seems to have gotten a little easier now that she's in Harrenhall. As long as Tywin doesn't find out who she is. Kind of sad that she's so close to where her brother resides but still there's no way for her to reach him. (hide spoiler)]

Catelyn - (view spoiler)[ It's a shame she couldn't make Stannis and Renly see sense. At least she did her best. I wonder why she seems to have so much sense when it comes to some things but still she's got no sense to return to Winterfell. I get it she wants to be with her dying father but otherwise her place isn't on the battlefield. I found Renly kind of annoying. I got a feeling the whole war was more of a joke to him than a real war. It seemed like he's the youngest brother trying to annoy his big brother. Especially because he really doesn't have any grounds for his claim for the crown. The Baratheons should have joined forces but at least now there is one king less. (hide spoiler)]

Sansa - (view spoiler)[ I feel bad for her for being punished for her brother's crimes. At least there are people who try to help her. I wish she was brave enough to accept that help from people like Tyrion, who could actually do something for her. (hide spoiler)]

Jon - (view spoiler)[ There's something about the lands beyond the wall that's not right. Even Ghost is acting weird. (hide spoiler)]

I find this book interesting to read. I watched season 2 of the tv-series just before Christmas so the things that happened are fresh in my memory. It's nice to read those things in a book now and see what's different.

[Alberto]

Finally getting to post the days I had been missing! Been too busy to post!

Day 4-7:
Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ i liked the way he is running things and making certain agreements and making sure that they are followed through. He's willing to go to extremes in order to ship Myrcella and Tommen off. I wonder if he will help Sansa along the way too. It's weird to see that Cersei is growing to like him more. I think it is a ruse to get what she wants. (hide spoiler)]

Bran - (view spoiler)[ Ah, the Little Prince. Well, it is interesting to read about his "green dreams", since I feel they will tell us more about who he is eventually. I hope he can open his third eye and meet the Crow person. I also wonder about his connection with the Jojen (I think that was his name). (hide spoiler)]

Sansa - (view spoiler)[ I agree with you both that she is 13 and trying to hold on to life. I hope that Ser Dontos isn't just another parlor trick (for her sake). Hated reading that scene where she got stripped naked and beaten. (hide spoiler)]

Arya - (view spoiler)[ Wow. Her chapters are intense and tough. I like that she is learning to behave the way she has to in order to survive. Sad about Yoren though. She and Gendry's relation is fun to read, kind of Arya and Jon, a Lady and a bastard. (hide spoiler)]

Jon - (view spoiler)[ My interest was really piqued with that man from the Wall that took all his daughters as wives. I wonder who his original wife was. I'm sure that Jon will get a lot of action soon. (hide spoiler)]

Theon - (view spoiler)[ WOAH THEON. He was scorned really bad, but that's what he gets for being so spoiled and full of himself. I'm sure his development will be good. (hide spoiler)]

Daenerys - (view spoiler)[ Mother of Dragons, I like that you are in Qarth. I hope that she doesn't make any foolish decisions there and trusts the wrong people. (hide spoiler)]

Catelyn - (view spoiler)[ Well, I enjoyed reading about Renly's place and about Brienne of Tarth. I feel like Margeary will end up married to someone else soon. She's good with negotiations and tries to acknowledge everyone for their titles. It was nice of her to help Brienne after she was blamed for murdering her king. (hide spoiler)]

The Kings -
Robb - (view spoiler)[ I hope that he does not take his recent victory as a sign that he is winning. He has to keep sharp and have a lot of military intelligence. (hide spoiler)]

Joffrey - (view spoiler)[ I like that I don't like him. He is such a hateable character that it doesn't make me hate him. Is that weird? He will not reign long, and he will not reign with Sansa. (hide spoiler)]

Daenerys - (view spoiler)[ She really needs an ally in Westeros and an army. (hide spoiler)]

Renly - (view spoiler)[ HOLY MOTHER OF DRAGONS. DID HE REALLY JUST DIE? I really liked him and I thought he could have a hidden prowess in him. That's buh-bye for Highgarden in this war. I wonder who will get his forces. Stannis? (hide spoiler)]

Stannis - (view spoiler)[ He's cold and calculating, and I believe he could win the war. But did he get Renly killed with the help of Melissandre? (hide spoiler)]

I agree with you Kiki, (view spoiler)[ Dany shouldn't trust anyone. (hide spoiler)]

[Kikijanika]

Yes Alberto! (view spoiler)[ I think Jojen was the name! (hide spoiler)]

I also think that (view spoiler)[ Jon's about to see some action. He's life has been quite peaceful so far. (hide spoiler)]

Like you, I think (view spoiler)[ Stannis could actually win the war. He's so cold he probably has what it takes and with the help of Melissandre he's even more dangerous. Rob and Renly are/were too inexperienced, although Renly might have actually had a chance against Stannis if it had came to battle before he died. He could have beaten Stannis simply because his army was so much bigger. However, if I should bet who will eventually claim the Iron Throne, I'd bet on Daenerys. (hide spoiler)]

[Whitney]

Sorry I've been really busy and haven't had time to post! I also find it a little bit difficult because I don't want to give any spoilers since I've seen the entire series multiple times.

I'm on the current day (day 9) and will post some general thoughts without spoilers when I have time, work is just so crazy right now!
I'm really liking the differences I'm seeing from screen to page. I love the detail that goes into this book too. I wonder if GRRM had to have a huge wall with family lineages and such lined out. There are just SO many characters that he has to have some kind of system, you know?

[Whitney]

Alberto--

I agree with your statement about Joffrey. I think (view spoiler)[ that he is meant to be hated so much that I end up looking forward to parts that he is in. It's like I want to see the next terrible thing that he does. I love when a book has a villain that's such an unlikable character like that! (hide spoiler)]

[Kikijanika]

I've been working night shifts so I've fallen behind...again! Tomorrow I'll hope to catch up. Right now I just finished day 8 but don't have time to write my thoughts now because I must go to work. I'll get back to you later.

But really Whitney...it must take so much work to keep track on all these characters and their family trees! I could never do that!

[Alberto]

I do believe he he has to have some sort of family tree map and location map to see how what he has written develops.

I agree with you both that work has been crazy and I haven't had the time to read a lot either! I'm trying to catch up with days 9 and 10 because day 11 is fierce! It will definitely be a challenge reading all that tomorrow, but the pages fly by! When I updated my status I couldn't believe we already were around the 70%!

[Alberto]

And yes Kiki - (view spoiler)[ we have only seen the war from the Westeros' point of view, but I'm sure Dany will be a great force. (hide spoiler)]

[Alberto]

Day 8 thoughts -

Bran - (view spoiler)[ Do you think that Winterfell could end by drowning? I could interpret it as Theon, since he lives by the water yet wants Winterfell. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ Lol Margaery has had two kings in one book. However, what is up with Cersei? Her loving side is shady. (hide spoiler)]

Theon - (view spoiler)[ Theon is evil. I want to know how he thinks that he can take Winterfell, although I'm pretty sure he will manage to do it if Robb dies. (hide spoiler)]

Arya - (view spoiler)[ I don't like it that whenever she feels angry she names someone. However, I do like that Jaqen has kept good on his word. I loved when he casually signed two with his finger. (hide spoiler)]

Catelyn - (view spoiler)[ I feel sad about how Lord Hoster is faring, but I wonder if he will ever die. They are right to doubt the Freys, though. Ned might finally be at rest. (hide spoiler)]

Daenerys - (view spoiler)[ I feel so excited that she might go to Asshai and find a way to defeat Melissandre even if they are not enemies. I feel like that would be the most epic of showdowns. Hopefully the warlocks have something of use. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ This chapter was wild. I loved the way it all played out and the scenes were so bloody beautiful (bloody and beautiful), in a way that they were totally detailed and left no clue as to what happened. Felt sorry for Lady Tanda's daughter (her daughter I think or someone else's lol) after she surrendered her maidenhood to "half a hundred men." Good thing that the men have wives, imagine if not, huh? (sarcasm) (hide spoiler)]

I wonder if (view spoiler)[ the book will end with a major cliffhanger or with a battle that will leave one of the kings dead. (hide spoiler)]

As I said before, what is up with (view spoiler)[ Cersei? Is she planning an ultimate attack on Tyrion? (hide spoiler)]

[Alberto]

So, in chapter 46 (it's a Bran):

(view spoiler)[ I just have to say I felt so SAD for poor Hodor. Why do people abuse him SO much? It makes me really sad. (hide spoiler)]

I had to get it off my chest.

[Kikijanika]

Alberto...(view spoiler)[ I also thought the drowning refers to Theon. Well, I know what happens in the tv-series so I'm not going to say whether it meant Theon there or not :) I'm glad the Hound saved Sansa from the crowd. Otherwise she might have shared the same fate as Lady Tanda's daughter. And I agree that Cercei's definitely acting shady. I think the only things she really cares about are Jamie and their children. And power. I don't actually know why she seems to dislike Tyrion so much. They're brother and sister after all. (hide spoiler)]

I also agree that (view spoiler)[ Hodor doesn't deserve the treatment he receives. It's a good thing that most of the time he doesn't seem to realize that people are making fun of him. (hide spoiler)]

[Kikijanika]

Day 9

Tyrion: (view spoiler)[I'm not sure why he had to interfere with Cercei sending Tommen away. If he was happy with that plan then why did he have to seize him from Cercei's men? (hide spoiler)]

Arya: (view spoiler)[ It seems Arya's more safe now with Lord Bolton in Harrenhall. I don't know why she didn't tell him who she is. But after all, I think it's just clever of her. So many people seem to changing sides lately. (hide spoiler)]

Catelyn: (view spoiler)[ Catelyn seems to be quite safe in Riverrun for the time being but it probably won't last. I don't know why she's trying to make Brienne wear gowns and sing songs. If she wants to be a knight I think she should just let her. (hide spoiler)]

Bran: (view spoiler)[ It's too bad people didn't believe his warnings. I'm glad he yielded Winterfell to protect his people but really what other choice did he have. You would think Theon would treat the people there with more respect. He's known them for years after all. I'd hate to think there are no friendly thoughts left. (hide spoiler)]

Daenerys: (view spoiler)[I liked the chapter about the House of the undead. It was quite a strange place. I doubt if visiting there really helped Daenerys, though. (hide spoiler)]

Jon: (view spoiler)[It seems Jon finally got what he wanted in the first place. He's not really a ranger now but out there anyway. I hope he likes it. (hide spoiler)]

Davos: (view spoiler)[ I like it how he's not afraid of Stannis and is being honest with him. I guess that's why Stannis trusts him. I wonder why Stannis doesn't just have Melisandre kill all his rivals with the shadow and be done with the war. (hide spoiler)]

[Kikijanika]

DAY 10:

Theon - (view spoiler)[ It's sad he seems to care about his reputation more than the people he grew up with. However, I don't believe he's a bad person. I just feel like he makes wrong decisions. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ I think it was wrong of him to let Cercei keep Alayaya, although Alayaya didn't actually seem to mind. I still don't think he should let her suffer for him and Shae. (hide spoiler)]

Catelyn - (view spoiler)[ It must be terrible for her to receive bad news after bad news. I wonder how she bears it as well as she does. (hide spoiler)]

Jon - (view spoiler)[ Now he's having the wolf dreams, too? That's weird. But things have felt weird the whole time they've been beyond the wall. I like it that he spared Ygritte's life. (hide spoiler)]

Sansa - (view spoiler)[ Poor Sansa was trying so hard to hide her bleeding. Too bad she doesn't know they're planning on Joffrey and Margaery getting married. Perhaps then she wouldn't be so afraid. Or then she'd be even more afraid not knowing what's in store for her. (hide spoiler)]

[Alberto]

Day 9-10:
Davos - (view spoiler)[ The shadow thing was amazing. What is Melissandre, really? I love Davos' POVs because of their honest intake on the war. (hide spoiler)]

Jon - (view spoiler)[ This means that a change in his chapters will finally happen. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ Interesting that Tyrion does really care about Shae. I hope she doesn't mistreat him like the other(s).

Varys's story was interesting, although I wonder if this has any connection to Melissandre. (hide spoiler)]

Catelyn - (view spoiler)[ I wonder if she will do anything to Jaime since there are no news or Arya. (hide spoiler)]

Bran - (view spoiler)[ He yielded easily, but I understand his reasons. I hope Theon doesn't do anything stupid. I really don't trust this Reek guy. (hide spoiler)]

Arya - (view spoiler)[ JAQEN IS AMAZING. There, I said it. I liked that Arya kept her Northern customs and helped the northmen. But what is up with Jaqen changing his face and telling her 'Valar Morghulis'? (hide spoiler)]

Daenerys - (view spoiler)[ THIS WAS DEFINITELY THE BEST CHAPTER IN ALL OF THE BOOK. I loved the House of the Undying. I loved the part about, "He has a song. He is the prince that was promised, and his is the song of ice and fire." Will Aegon make a comeback? Oh Dany, you must tread carefully. I feel like what the Undying said about Dany will reflect in the next books. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ It seems like his plans are going too smoothly, so something will happen to him later, unless he is a really good strategist. (hide spoiler)]

Theon - (view spoiler)[ Good thing that they escaped. (hide spoiler)]

Jon - (view spoiler)[ The story was really interesting to hear. Ygritte seems like a character that will come up again. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ Ha, it's funny seeing how Cersei thought she was one step ahead of him but she wasn't. I love how they exchange Alayaya for Tommen, lol. (hide spoiler)]

Theon - (view spoiler)[ Okay.. Reek is weird. Although I do admit it was a good strategy. (hide spoiler)]

Catelyn - (view spoiler)[ Sad to think that she thinks her children are dead. Also... it's weird how Jaime confessed to his true crimes, but not for trying to murder her (although I'm not sure it was him at all). (hide spoiler)]

Sansa - (view spoiler)[ Sansa, you're a woman. Cersei gave her a bit of love "advice," if you can call it that. It's sad that she doesn't even know what is going on around her. (hide spoiler)]

Sansa - (view spoiler)[ The attack has begun. (hide spoiler)]

Davos - (view spoiler)[ His chapter are the best in Westeros since they give true feedback, although, honestly, I do not like naval fights a lot. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ Brave Tyrion to pay for he mistakes of his family. (hide spoiler)]

Sansa - (view spoiler)[ Damn, Cersei is clever bringing Ilyn. I hope they do not die. (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ POD? REALLY? And I thought he wasn't important in the book! (hide spoiler)]

Sansa - (view spoiler)[ Why did Cersei take Joffrey when he was supposed to be leading? Also, did Melissandre have a part of this because of Renly? (hide spoiler)]

Daenerys - (view spoiler)[ Dany is becoming a bit cocky, but I know she needs it. Belwas was way to arrogant, but it's good she is going back to Pentos. (hide spoiler)]

Arya - (view spoiler)[ Where is she going?! I'm glad she escaped, but it's weird that she killed a man. I guess Valar Morghulis. (hide spoiler)]

Sansa - (view spoiler)[ Wait, Petyr took the trident (by title)? I believe he may mean it as a way to get closer to Catelyn and maybe wed her. Finally, the day has been set for she to escape! (hide spoiler)]


Kiki - (view spoiler)[ Do you think that Stannis knows or they're just having sex? (hide spoiler)]

Kiki - (view spoiler)[ I think he was interfering because even though Tommen was going, it wasn't how he had planned it and he had to look convincing to Cersei. (hide spoiler)]

Why do you guys think that (view spoiler)[ Ned lied to Catelyn? (hide spoiler)]

[Alberto]

Ah! I've been done with this book since the last day but I haven't had time to post!

Theon - (view spoiler)[ It's kind of instantaneous karma that he couldn't even last a week without getting Winterfell taken out of him. Although Ramsay is a bastard, which got me thinking of "the prince that was promised." (hide spoiler)]

Tyrion - (view spoiler)[ Ooh, Tyrion has become uglier, which is interesting. Also, he dreams of a "feast," as in A Feast for Crows. (hide spoiler)]

Jon - (view spoiler)[ Buh-bye Qhorin! Well, Jon did prove himself to no other than Ygritte, who he let go earlier. See? Karma does have a good role in this book, lol. Will he meet Mance soon since he is headed for the Wall? (hide spoiler)]

Bran - (view spoiler)[ Perfect ending chapter, tinted with a few boom ending phrases. I loved that Bran was finally able to open his third eye, even though I'm dying to know what happened during those three days that left the castle so broken! (hide spoiler)]

[Alberto]

Ending thoughts:

(view spoiler)[ I really liked this book. I know that it was building up the big part of the war and eliminating some of the important players, but some parts were simply all war-like which I loved. I am really intrigued as to where the author can take this, since it has such a possibility of going very well or very bad. I'm sure it'll be as good as the last two books! (hide spoiler)]

Favourite part:
(view spoiler)[ The house of the Undying! I loved, as I have stated before, the part about the "prince who was promised," and the "his was the song of ice and fire." It could mean so much and may turn out to be such a good plot twist! (hide spoiler)]

Least favourite part:
(view spoiler)[ The Ser Davos maritime naval fight was kind of boring to me, but that's just cause I've never liked battles that take place in the water. (hide spoiler)]

Runner-up for best:
(view spoiler)[ Bran opening up his third eye. (hide spoiler)]

My thoughts on the war:
(view spoiler)[ I still believe that Stannis is the most likely person to win the war. Since Daenerys hasn't really made a move on the war since she doesn't know it's on (took her about half of the book to know Robert was dead).

Joffrey is being a kid (which can be justified since he acutally IS).

Renly is dead (duh).

Robb is winning, but we haven't really known much about him. (hide spoiler)]

Also,
(view spoiler)[ I just saw the TV show scene where Dany enters the House of the Undying (just that scene, since I don't watch the show), and frankly... I was disappointed that they made it such a little thing since I felt it was really important in the book. This gives me another reason to not watch the TV show.

I hope you all enjoyed the book!

Robb (hide spoiler)]

[Kikijanika]

I still have days 11 and 12 to go. I hope to finish tomorrow.

[Whitney]

Ending Thoughts:

Okay, so the book has a TON more information than the show (obviously) and then there are also some Major differences (view spoiler)[ Reek/Ramsay (hide spoiler)].

I really did like this installment of the series. I'll agree, Alberto, (view spoiler)[ it really was a lot of "build up" for what is to come I feel like. GRRM really could take this any direction for the 3rd book. (hide spoiler)]

Favorite Parts:

(view spoiler)[ Basically anything with Tyrion or Arya. I love their scenes. I really enjoy the Tyrion/Bronn dynamic. I also like to see how Tyrions "plots" will play out (like with sending Myrcella off, to see who betrayed his trust) and how he likes to outwit others. Also, I just really like his character, even though he is a Lannister and they are the "Big Bad" of the series. I also enjoyed Arya's parts. I feel like she goes through SO much in this book. I can't wait to see her journey continue in the next book. (hide spoiler)]

Least Favorite:
(view spoiler)[ Theon. I literally dreaded reading his chapters. I don't know what it is about him. He's so cocky, which is different than most characters in the books, so you'd think it would be refreshing. To me he is just irritating and ultimately it slaps him in the face. (hide spoiler)]

The War:
(view spoiler)[ Alberto, I agree that Daenerys hasn't made a significant move yet, because she is across the Narrow Sea, trying to gather some ships. Stannis does have a good bet, especially with the Lord of Light on his side. You're right, Robb is winning a lot of the battles, but in the grand scheme of things, will that be enough? The Lannisters have more men and Stannis has gained a ton of followers after Renly's death. (hide spoiler)]

As for the TV Show:
(view spoiler)[ After reading the House of the Undying scene, I agree that the TV show did a much different interpretation of it. I think they were more so wanting to show that everyone wants the dragons and will do whatever it takes to try and keep them. But, overall, even though there are some major differences, the show is amazing! I think after reading the 5 books that are out already, you should definitely give it a shot! Obviously they are already past what has happened in the book, but they are also getting direct input from GRRM. (hide spoiler)]

[Alberto]

I agree Whitney, (view spoiler)[ I should give the show a watch after I (we?) finish the books! :D (hide spoiler)]