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Fire & Blood

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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George R. R. Martin

Fire & Blood

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

752

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Westeros, Essos • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Fire & Blood by George R. R. Martin is a fictional history chronicled by Archmaester Gyldayn, detailing the Targaryen dynasty's rise to power in Westeros through their unique ability to ride dragons, starting from Aegon the Conqueror's brutal unification of the seven kingdoms and continuing through the tumultuous reigns of his successors, marked by familial conflict, civil wars, and political intrigue. The source material features depictions of sexual assault, sexual abuse, and other forms of gender-based violence. It also includes alcohol abuse, incest, domestic abuse, suicide, and ableist language related to limb differences and appearance.

Informative

Mysterious

Dark

Fantastical

Suspenseful

Reviews & Readership

4.3

154,679 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

In Fire & Blood, readers delve into the rich history of the Targaryen dynasty with George R. R. Martin's meticulous world-building and gripping narrative. Positive reviews highlight its depth and vivid storytelling. Critiques focus on its history book format and dry sections. Overall, it's a must-read for die-hard fans of Westeros but may not captivate casual readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Fire & Blood?

Readers who enjoy rich historical narratives, intricate political intrigue, and expansive lore akin to J.R.R. Tolkien's The Silmarillion or Bernard Cornwell's The Last Kingdom series would find Fire & Blood by George R. R. Martin captivating. It appeals to those who relish deep dives into fictional histories and complex world-building.

4.3

154,679 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Archmaester Gyldayn

A fictional historian who narrates the events in the story, providing his insights and biases on the various rulers and events of the Targaryen dynasty.

The founder of the Targaryen dynasty, known for using his dragons and military prowess to unify and rule Westeros.

A wise and effective ruler who restored stability and prosperity to Westeros after periods of conflict and controversy.

A king with a genial demeanor who struggled with decisiveness, ultimately leading to the succession conflict that shaped his legacy.

The son of Viserys I and Alicent Hightower, known for his violent and vengeful reign during a tumultuous period.

The daughter of Viserys I, whose claim to the throne sparked a significant conflict; she is notable for her attempts to rule in her own right.

A Targaryen ruler shaped by early trauma, who was challenged in his attempts to assert his authority during his reign.

A hot-tempered Targaryen prince and brother to Viserys I, known for his military prowess and ambition.

A prominent explorer and political player, who formed key alliances through marriage to strengthen his influence.

A king infamous for his violent rule and efforts to maintain power through fear, ultimately leading to his downfall.

A jester with firsthand knowledge of court events, whose irreverent and sometimes salacious accounts contrast official chroniclers' records.

The son of Aegon the Conqueror, remembered for his indecisive reign and ultimate inability to maintain the Targaryen grip on power.

The sister and warrior queen of Aegon the Conqueror, notable for her martial prowess and political influence.

The sister of Aegon the Conqueror, remembered for her diplomatic and cultural contributions to solidify Targaryen rule.

The son of Rhaenyra and Daemon, who served as Hand of the King and navigated political intrigue upon his return to Westeros.

The sister and wife of Jaehaerys I, who played a supportive role in stabilizing Westeros through diplomacy and marriage.

The second wife of Viserys I and mother of Aegon II, known for her central role in the political machinations of her era.

The Lysene wife of Viserys II, reflecting the tensions between Westerosi and foreign influences in politics.

The second son of Viserys I, whose actions and quest for vengeance played a significant role in the conflict of the era.

A daughter of House Farman who became an explorer after leaving Westeros, ultimately capturing the intrigue of later chroniclers.

The Lord of Winterfell during a critical period of conflict, noted for his adherence to justice and his role in the realm's governance.

A Machiavellian figure whose machinations during the Dance of the Dragons emphasized his cunning and ambition.

A prominent figure from Casterly Rock, whose financial policies and subsequent fall from favor highlight the period's political shifts.

An ambitious political figure during Aegon III's regency, known for his manipulative tactics and eventual downfall.

Book Details
Pages

752

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Westeros, Essos • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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