Status Updates From A Game of Thrones #1

Remarkably high body counts and some surprisingly inglorious deaths of several high-profile people. Tyrion is probably my favorite character, and I'm sure I'm not alone in this.

Major events really get rolling in the middle third! Lots of brutal killings, and maimings, but not quite what could be called violence-porn.

I'm not absolutely wowed by the story so far, but the world-building is really well done.

Okay, I can see how this book series earned popularity; decent writing and intriguing story, told through an array of interesting characters.

At least I know what I'm getting into well in advance...