A delightfully dark and gritty Fantasy book. There are none of the usual elements of High Fantasy here, such as elves or fairies (though there are Dragon's eggs and a wise-cracking dwarf!) but it still has a fantastical feel to it. Much of it feels like it could have been a Historical piece from some alternate history timeline and that really adds to its charm. 
 Plus I just adore the Starks, especially Arya, Sansa, Jon Snow, and Robb! And how GREAT is it that these kids have their own pet direwolf at the start of this? Such a fun visual/element in addition to being symbolic in the story. Just saying. 
 Oh and the Night's Watch training stuff is really cool too! 
 Not recommended for younger readers as it is rather graphic and gory, but definitely a good read for adults with strong stomachs.