A Song of Fire and Ice: Game of Thrones Book 1: Audiobook Review

 

 

A Song of Fire and Ice: Game of Thrones Book 1 – An Audio Book Review

 

• Author: George R.R. Martin
• Narrated by: Roy Dotrice
• Length: 33 hours and 50 minutes
• Unabridged
• Genre: Fantasy

 

 

Audio book Summary:

In a land that was formed through the iron will of man where summer can last decades, a dark presence grows in the north beyond the wall of Winterfell that threatens to throw the land into chaos. To the south, at King’s Landing, ominous shadows hide in plain sight looking to capture the Iron Throne. In the middle of this maelstrom of deceit are the Starks. The importance of their role in the coming events is unknown to them as well as their enemies. As the schemers deploy their pawns and make their moves, will the Starks, known for their honor, be able to survive in a world where honor can be bought and the truth is hidden among lies? So commence a game of thrones, but as the people of Westeros bicker amongst themselves the House of Stark’s words should be kept in mind: Winter is coming.

One reason to listen:
If you are already familiar with the hit HBO series then you owe it to yourself to read the books the series is based on. There are numerous subplots and back stories that the television series did not cover so if you wish to learn more about the history of the fictional land of Westeros as well the characters that roam its lands.
 

 

Reactions:

“If you like to feel safe and secure when reading a book, this series is not for you. Nothing is sacred, no one is safe. Bad things happen to good people, and vice versa. If I had been reading a paper book, I would have a lot of holes in my walls from repeatedly throwing the books against them. However, reading them has given me plenty of practice climbing the walls. (Unfortunately, as a woman, I would still not be able to become a Black Brother.) No one is happy in any of the seven kingdoms. The only joy comes from vengeance or, more rarely, justice. I hate books like that! But I read all the books and am biting my nails waiting for the next one.” – DCinMI

“The plot has numerous twists and turns. Sometimes I think the author intentionally speculates about what the reader would expect in the plot of a fantasy novel, and then does something completely different. I gave up trying to predict what would happen, and decided to just enjoy the ride. However, there is an overall “master” plot that is slowly unveiled in this and subsequent books. If you enjoy fantasy, this is a must read. Even if you usually don’t like fantasy, you may very enjoy this one.” – Brent

“This was an incredible book. The narrator took some getting used to in particularly the way children and women are spoken. Otherwise, the narrator is brilliant. He sounds like the great actor that he is. This is not just a good narration; it is a great performance. As strange as it was at times, I have been tempted to listen to the next book in the series just for the narrator.” – Robert

“I am without words…. This book is just epic! I am still reeling from the captivating storyline and the amazing narration! This is what mature fantasy literature is all about; it is magical and yet feels so realistic. The vast array of characters is engaging and beautifully developed. The characters age so realistically in the book and the many sub-plots and intertwining leaves you just wanting more and more. The narration is so spot on I can’t think of anyone else that could do this book any more justice, Roy Dotrice, you are just plain great.” – Teddy

“For people who think this is too long and is slow to get started, I admit it took me until the bit at the inn (that description will make sense) and then I was hooked. And if you prefer things that aren’t, well, epic, then yes, this isn’t your book.” – John

“This book is not for the soft hearted. This is not for the mellow people. If being violent and explicit is what you call adult reading, well, this is it. There are some pretty rough scenes that are pretty shocking. So, if you decide to read it, brace yourself.” – Gilmara Lima Mendes

Score on Audible: 4.5 out of 5
Score on Amazon: 4.5 out of 5