A Game of Thrones is probably the first fantasy novel I truly enjoyed (though I haven't read many) and I read this so gain a better understanding of the characters for the awesome TV series airing on HBO. George R.R. Martin is a master storyteller, always changing perspectives to explore each side of the story from each of the three main families. This technique avoids making the story feel dragged out and a great way to know what the motivation from different characters is. This book is more than just a fantasy novel - I would describe this more as an epic fantasy novel - mixing family rivalries with love, sex, epic battles, coming of age aspects and many other aspects you would want in a great book. While I would love to give this book five stars, there was a part of me that is holding me back, I would say it's worthy of a four and a half star rating. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.