Is George R R Martin overated?

Ok I know the series " Game of Thrones" is seen as one of the popular things on TV, however after reading the authors book series of Song of Ice and Fire which I think the TV shows are based on and I have to say they are diabolical ... I have just started the first book, A Game of Thrones but however it just seems, busy and not very well though out. I plan to carry on for a little while longer because at the moment i have a broke arm and will be off for two weeks from work. And thus have nothing else to do.



what do you think? do you believe he is overrated as an author ? - part of me makes me think, good idea but badly executedIs George R R Martin overated?
mmm... not overrated, but extremely popular. Ex: even LOTR, although epic and one of the first modern fantasy series, is also written kinda meh with more emphasis on language and history.



It could definitely be a smidge better, like the other poster said, Dany started out awesome, but now is dragged down with decadence and political intrigue - which is fine, but it's been dragging.



The series IS thought out, but it's dragged out through the whole series, so if it seems that way in book 1, it IS important and will be revealed in another book.



But as a whole, the series is definitely very epic and very gritty. This series does NOT pull any punches. And does not view magic and fantasy as a "Deus ex Machina".



I always try to convey this series as: War of the Roses/English History x Shakespeare x Fall of the Roman Empire x LOTR, as emphasis is more on political intrigue and alliances than straight up fantasy (until the later books).



If you're looking for fantasy that's clear cut and laid out, this series is not for you. :)

The author tries to convey what fantasy would really be like in real life, as opposed to fairy castles in the sky.



Hope this helps :)Is George R R Martin overated?
Somewhat overrated definately, There are whole long story lines for certain characters that I find to be unintersing, and I think that he could have done a lot more with Dany rather than have her wallow around in the desert for 5 books ignoring her dragons and taking baths all the time.

On the other end, the adventures of Tyrion and Aria are nothing short of awesome.

But, that being said the books are pretty solid fantasy with strong characters and good world building.

If you are looking for a good book try "The Way Of Kings" by robert sanderson. It starts slowly but all the characters are interesting, and when there is magic it is used heavily.Is George R R Martin overated?
Not "overrated," but maybe not your cup of tea.



I don't get the popularity of several current book series, but that is more on a personal then technical level.



Maybe his style does not resonate with you.

That's all.
I actually felt the same way when I started the series. My husband gave me the first 5 books for my birthday and I was a bit disappointed at first.(and worried that I would only read them because they were a gift that he really put time into choosing).

It seemed a little all over the place and a little too busy.

Having finished 4 of the 5, I grew to love the series. Most of my love for the series came in the 3rd book, so maybe you just need to give it time.

Martin is a fairly accomplished author, both of novels and short stories and TV material. He's been writing since the 70's. I do think he writes as if he fully intends his work to be adapted for the screen and spends far too much time describing clothing. Do I really need to know who's in boiled leather and who's in mail? Once a character is introduced, I can imagine his clothing on a day to day basis without needing to know what he wears from head to toe.