The second book in the series, "A Song of Ice and Fire" by George R.R. Martin, was much more eventful than the first. Although the prologue was more relevant to the book than the prologue in the first book, it was a little difficult to get through, as most of the first book actually was. However, I enjoyed the second book much more thoroughly than the first even though my favorite characters seemed to be described less frequently and were perhaps even nonexistence, as they perished in the first book.
I find myself more into the series and more intrigued, I can't wait to start the next book; however, I have to admit, I was disappointed with some of the occurrences in the book. Stannis, as a character, was very disappointing. I don't believe he was actually defeated at King's Landing, but I am very disappointed with him. In the first book, Stannis isn't really characterized as anything but boring, just, and stringent. The second book portrays him as being almost cruel and stupidly stubborn. Even Stannis cannot actually prove that Joffrey is a bastard, so he has no honorable claim to the throne. I'm also frustrated that Arya isn't a little more settled than she was at the start of the book. It also would have been nice to have more insight into what Robb is doing. I thought the narration additions of Theon and Davos neutralized each other; Theon was somewhat interesting, while Davos was boring, excluding only the account of Stannis' shadow being born.
I'm very interested to find out what Bran will do next and what will become of Rickon. I believe Bran is heading to the Wall and may go beyond that eventually. I don't know where Osha is taking Rickon and I'm surprised Rickon hasn't fussed more about it. I assume Arya will try to take her friends to Riverrun, but will most likely be stopped and diverted by something yet again. I get the impression that Lord Tywin isn't actually Lord Tywin, but is rather either Stannis or Melisandre. I don't know what Magister Illyrio has in store for Dany, but I don't really trust him.
Astrological additions:
Gemini:
- Theon Greyjoy
Libra:
- King Renly Baratheon
Aquarius:
- King Stannis Baratheon
