There is little doubt that people are waiting for an update on The Winds of Winter. However, fans of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire book series will need to wait a little longer. The author has just announced that a new novel will be released later this year but the book, The Rise of the Dragon, is connected to the Game of Thrones prequel series House of the Dragon!
George R.R. Martin shared a new post of his blog confirming The Rise of the Dragon, "a lavish visual history of House Targaryen" who will be the main focus of House of the Dragon. According to Martin, the new book will feature more than 180 all-new illustrations depicting the Targaryens who will appear in House of the Dragon.
The Game of Thrones prequel is already based on George R.R. Martin's book Fire and Blood but the author was quick to point out the difference between the two titles.
"What’s the difference between The Rise of the Dragon and Fire & Blood? Think of The Rise of the Dragon as a deluxe reference book, in which Westeros’ most infamous family – and their dragons – come to life in partnership with some truly incredible artists," Martin wrote.
The writer also explained that the new book is more like The World of Ice and Fire, stating that The Rise of the Dragon "is written in a more encyclopedic style." Martin then confirms that The World of Ice and Fire authors Elio M. García, Jr. and Linda Antonsson were the ones who wrote the new book.
This is a comforting detail for fans who have been waiting for The Winds of Winter since it assures people that George R.R. Martin hasn't stopped working on the book. However, it looks like The Rise of the Dragon will be released a lot sooner than Book Six of A Song of Ice and Fire.
The Rise of the Dragon will be available in October 2022. House of the Dragon has not yet been given an official release date.
Related: Game of Thrones: George R.R. Martin Shares New The Winds of Winter Update
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