"We should start back," Gared urged as the woods began to grow dark around them.
An edition of A Game of Thrones
(1996)
A Game of Thrones
HBO Tie-in Edition
by George R. R. Martin
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March 10, 2025 | History
In A Game of Thrones, George R.R. Martin has created a genuine masterpiece, bringing together the best the genre has to offer. Mystery, intrigue, romance, and adventure fill the pages of the first volume in an epic series sure to delight fantansy fans everywhere.
In a land where summers can last decades and winters a lifetime, trouble is brewing. The cold is returning, and in the frozen wastes of 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. 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.
—back cover
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Subjects
Adult, Action & Adventure, Fantasy, High Fantasy, Epic, Epic Fantasy, Epic Fiction, Epic Literature, Fiction, fantasy, epic, Fiction, fantasy, general, Science Fiction, Fantastic Fiction, Fiction, Ficción, Moral Ambiguity, Betrayal, Loyalty, Family, Revenge, Vengeance, Bien y mal, Civil War, War and Conflict, Imaginary Wars and Battles, Guerras imaginarias, Politics, Intrigue, Feudalism, Royalty and Nobility, Kings and Rulers, Knights, Courts and Courtiers, Seasons, Invierno, Trial by Combat, Voyages and Travels, Walls, Penal Colonies, Magic, Dragons, Supernatural, Wights, Folk Healers, Incest, Forced Marriage, Persistent Vegetative States, Imaginary Places, Seven Kingdoms (Imaginary Place), Hugo Award Winner, Ignotus Award Winner, Locus Award Winner, New York Times BestsellerPeople
Eddard Stark, Catelyn Stark, Robb Stark, Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Bran Stark, Rickon Stark, Jon Snow, Theon Greyjoy, Luwin, Rodrik Cassel, Jory Cassel, Vayon Poole, Jeyne Poole, Alyn, Tomard, Hallis Mollen, Harwin, Mordane, Mikken, Old Nan, Hodor, Osha, Syrio Forel, Rickard Karstark, Harrion Karstark, Eddard Karstark, Torrhen Karstark, Galbart Glover, Robett Glover, Mors Umber, Hother Umber, Jon Umber (the Greatjon), Jon Umber (the Smalljon), Maege Mormont, Wylis Manderly, Wendel Manderly, Roose Bolton, Hoster Tully, Edmure Tully, Brynden Tully, Robin Ryger, Utherydes Wayn, Tytos Blackwood, Jonos Bracken, Jason Mallister, Patrek Mallister, Marq Piper, Walder Frey, Stevron Frey, Walder Frey (Black Walder), Emmon Frey, Aenys Frey, Jared Frey, Hosteen Frey, Merrett Frey, Walder Frey (Little Walder), Lothar Frey, Walder Frey (Big Walder), Walder Rivers, Lysa Arryn, Robert Arryn, Yohn Royce, Robar Royce, Nestor Royce, Mya Stone, Lyn Corbray, Anya Waynwood, Colemon, Mord, Robert Baratheon, Joffrey Baratheon, Myrcella Baratheon, Tommen Baratheon, Renly Baratheon, Bryce Caron, Tywin Lannister, Cersei Lannister, Jaime Lannister, Tyrion Lannister, Kevan Lannister, Lancel Lannister, Ilyn Payne, Podrick Payne, Bronn, Sandor Clegane, Gregor Clegane, Addam Marbrand, Harys Swyft, Loras Tyrell, Horas Redwyne, Hobber Redwyne, Barristan Selmy, Arys Oakheart, Boros Blount, Mandon Moore, Meryn Trant, Preston Greenfield, Balon Swann, Petyr Baelish, Varys, Pycelle, Gyles Rosby, Aron Santagar, Janos Slynt, Dontos Hollard, Lothor Brune, Jalabhar Xho, Gendry, Marillion, Chataya, Shae, Timett, Shagga, Beric Dondarrion, Thoros of Myr, Jeor Mormont, Aemon, Benjen Stark, Othell Yarwyck, Bowen Marsh, Donal Noye, Alliser Thorne, Dywen, Yoren, Waymar Royce, Chett, Samwell Tarly, Grenn, Pypar, Dareon, Jaremy Rykker, Three-eyed crow, Viserys Targaryen, Daenerys Targaryen, Jorah Mormont, Illyrio Mopatis, Drogo, Qotho, Cohollo, Haggo, Rakharo, Jhogo, Aggo, Doreah, Irri, Jhiqui, Mirri Maz DuurPlaces
Westeros, Seven Kingdoms, North, Winterfell, Winter town, Karhold, Last Hearth, White Harbor, Wolfswood, White Knife, Bear Island, Gift, Mole's Town, Wall, Castle Black, Shadow Tower, Eastwatch-by-the-Sea, Long Barrow, Beyond the Wall, Haunted forest, Riverlands, Riverrun, Twins, Harrenhal, Raventree Hall, Darry, Seagard, Stone Hedge, Blackwater Rush, Trident, Blue Fork, Green Fork, Red Fork, Tumblestone, Vale of Arryn, Eyrie, Bloody Gate, Stone (waycastle), Snow (waycastle), Sky (waycastle), Gates of the Moon, Gulltown, Fingers, Three Sisters, Giant's Lance, Alyssa's Tears, Mountains of the Moon, Casterly Rock, Golden Tooth, Lannisport, Crownlands, Kingsroad, King's Landing, Red Keep, Great Sept of Baelor, Kingswood, Dragonstone, Stormlands, Storm's End, Reach, Highgarden, Narrow sea, Essos, Braavos, Lys, Myr, Pentos, Norvos, Qohor, Ghoyan Drohe, Dothraki sea, Vaes Dothrak, Qarth, Meereen, Summer Isles, AsshaiShowing 10 featured editions. View all 87 editions?
| Edition | Availability ↑ |
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06
A Game of Thrones
2011, Bantam Books
Mass Market Paperback
in English
- HBO Tie-in Edition
0553573403 9780553573404
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05
Le trône de fer: L'intégrale 1
2011, J'ai Lu
Paperback
in French
- HBO Tie-in Edition
2290019437 9782290019436
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01
Juego de tronos
2013, PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE, PLAZA & JANES MEXICO
paperback
in Spanish
6073113110 9786073113113
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Showing 1 to 3 of 10 entries
Book Details
First Sentence
"“We should start back,” Gared urged as the woods began to grow dark around them."
Table of Contents
Edition Notes
US / Canada Edition.
Contains a preview excerpt of A Clash of Kings.
Frontmatter includes two maps of the A Game of Thrones territory.
© 1996 by George R. R. Martin.
Excerpt from A Clash of Kings copyright © 1999 by George R. R. Martin.
Cover art copyright © 2011 by Larry Rostant.
Maps by James Sinclair.
Heraldic crests by Virginia Norey.
Printed in the United States of America.
Contributors
The Physical Object
Edition Identifiers
Work Identifiers
Work Description
A Game of Thrones is the inaugural novel in A Song of Ice and Fire, an epic series of fantasy novels crafted by the American author George R. R. Martin. Published on August 1, 1996, this novel introduces readers to the richly detailed world of Westeros and Essos, where political intrigue, power struggles, and magical elements intertwine.
The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, each chapter focusing on a different character, allowing readers to experience the narrative from various angles. This complex structure has become a hallmark of Martin's storytelling, immersing readers in the lives and motivations of a diverse cast.
Plot Summary
Set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, the narrative revolves around the power struggles among noble families vying for the Iron Throne, the seat of power in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. The story is rich with political intrigue, betrayal, and epic battles, as well as a deep exploration of themes such as loyalty, honor, and the consequences of power.
Themes
The novel explores themes of power, loyalty, and the moral complexities of leadership. It delves into the consequences of ambition and the struggle between personal honor and political necessity. The richly detailed world-building and intricate character development make A Game of Thrones a compelling and immersive read.
Key Characters
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Eddard "Ned" Stark: The honorable Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North, known for his unwavering honor and sense of duty.
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Catelyn Stark: The devoted wife of Eddard Stark, whose strength and wisdom guide her family through challenging times.
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Robert Baratheon: The King of the Seven Kingdoms, who won the throne through rebellion. His reign is marked by political intrigue and personal struggles, reflecting the broader conflicts of the realm.
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Cersei Lannister: The ambitious and cunning Queen of Westeros, whose political acumen and determination make her a formidable presence in the court.
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Jaime Lannister: A skilled swordsman and member of the Kingsguard, known for his prowess in battle and complex loyalties.
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Tyrion Lannister: The witty and resourceful dwarf, known for his sharp mind and cunning, navigating the treacherous politics of the realm.
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Daenerys Targaryen: An exiled princess of House Targaryen, seeking to reclaim her birthright and restore her family's dynasty.
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Jon Snow: The bastard son of Eddard Stark, who joins the Night's Watch and faces unique challenges in the far north.
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Sansa Stark: The eldest daughter of Eddard Stark, initially known for her naivety and romantic ideals, who learns to navigate the complexities of court life.
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Arya Stark: The youngest daughter of Eddard Stark, known for her spirited and adventurous nature, seeking her own path in the world.
- Bran Stark: The second son of Eddard Stark, whose life takes a dramatic turn.
Awards and Recognition
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Winner of the 1997 Locus Award
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Nominated for the 1997 Nebula Award
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Nominated for the 1997 World Fantasy Award
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Winner of the 1997 Hugo Award for Best Novella for "Blood of the Dragon," which includes the Daenerys Targaryen chapters from the novel
- Became a New York Times Bestseller in January 2011 and reached No. 1 on the list in July 2011
Followed by: A Clash of Kings
Excerpts
added by Lisa.
first sentence
Bran thought about it. “Can a man still be brave if he’s afraid?” “That is the only time a man can be brave,” his father told him.
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Bran I
"Yet our way is the older way. The blood of the First Men still flows in the veins of the Starks, and we hold to the belief that the man who passes the sentence should swing the sword. If you would take a man’s life, you owe it to him to look into his eyes and hear his final words. And if you cannot bear to do that, then perhaps the man does not deserve to die."
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Bran I
Every noble house had its words. Family mottoes, touchstones, prayers of sorts, they boasted of honor and glory, promised loyalty and truth, swore faith and courage. All but the Starks. Winter is coming, said the Stark words.
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Catelyn I
Some old wounds never truly heal, and bleed again at the slightest word.
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Eddard I
"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."
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Jon I
"My mind is my weapon. My brother has his sword, King Robert has his warhammer, and I have my mind … and a mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge."
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Tyrion II
"Let me tell you something about wolves, child. When the snows fall and the white winds blow, the lone wolf dies, but the pack survives. Summer is the time for squabbles. In winter, we must protect one another, keep each other warm, share our strengths. So if you must hate, Arya, hate those who would truly do us harm. Septa Mordane is a good woman, and Sansa … Sansa is your sister. You may be as different as the sun and the moon, but the same blood flows through both your hearts. You need her, as she needs you … and I need both of you, gods help me."
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Arya II
"The common people pray for rain, healthy children, and a summer that never ends," Ser Jorah told her. "It is no matter to them if the high lords play their game of thrones, so long as they are left in peace." He gave a shrug. "They never are."
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Daenerys III
"When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground."
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Eddard XII
"Night gathers, and now my watch begins. It shall not end until my death. I shall take no wife, hold no lands, father no children. I shall wear no crowns and win no glory. I shall live and die at my post. I am the sword in the darkness. I am the watcher on the walls. I am the fire that burns against the cold, the light that brings the dawn, the horn that wakes the sleepers, the shield that guards the realms of men. I pledge my life and honor to the Night’s Watch, for this night and all the nights to come."
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Jon VI
"The things we love destroy us every time, lad. Remember that."
added by huginn4126.
Chapter: Jon VII
Links outside Open Library
Community Reviews (19)
Pace 4
Slow paced
28%
Medium paced
28%
Fast paced
28%
Meandering
14%
Enjoyability 8
Engaging
50%
Exciting
41%
Boring
8%
Clarity 6
Clearly written
42%
Dense
28%
Succinct
14%
Well organized
14%
Difficulty 7
Beginner
42%
Advanced
42%
Intermediate
14%
Breadth 3
Comprehensive
66%
Focused
33%
Genres 5
Horror
12%
Romance
12%
Mystery
12%
Drama
12%
Fantasy
6%
Review
6%
Classic
6%
Satire
6%
Exploratory
6%
Philosophical
6%
Crime
6%
Textbook
6%
Mood 3
Scientific
33%
Tense
16%
Mysterious
16%
Emotional
16%
Hopeful
16%
Impressions 4
Recommend
50%
Highly recommend
50%
Length 8
Medium
50%
Long
30%
Short
20%
Credibility 4
Trendy
25%
Accurate
25%
Objective
25%
Inaccurate
25%
Features 5
Chapters
18%
Problem sets
12%
Tables, diagrams, and figures
12%
Index
12%
Interviews
6%
Table of contents
6%
Bibliography
6%
Illustrations
6%
Glossary
6%
Appendix
6%
Proofs
6%
Content Warnings 3
Adult themes
60%
Graphic imagery
20%
Trigger warnings
20%
Style 4
Neologisms
33%
Technical
33%
Olde
16%
Slang
16%
Purpose 3
Entertainment
33%
Broaden perspective
33%
Inspiration
33%
Lists
See All
| March 10, 2025 | Edited by huginn4126 | links, sorted and removed 2 not directly related to the book |
| March 10, 2025 | Edited by huginn4126 | Description formatting, link, id |
| March 9, 2025 | Edited by huginn4126 | Edited without comment. |
| March 9, 2025 | Edited by huginn4126 | Expanded characters and places |
| October 24, 2009 | Created by WorkBot | add works page |