The Winds of Westeros

So, I read some articles and GRRM's blog about some big hoopla.

Apparently, a lot of people are upset and freaking out over the fact that some actor has been cast in the role of the Red Viper of Dorne.

Just the name sounds sort of mysterious and seductive, at the same time. I don't know who Pedro Pascal is, but I did read up on him on IMDB. I say, give the guy a chance. So many of the actors and actresses that were cast in the first season were unknown.

I am stoked to know that with every coming week, there seems to be a little snippet of Game of Thrones news, whether it be casting, scouting out of locations or Comic Con junkets.

SWEET!

Ah, July. One of my favourite months. Summer time, friends, family and lots of things to do.

I came across one of those Kobo readers during one of my jaunts to Chapters. Hm. While it looks nice, I just don't think I could purchase one.

Call me old school, but there's something nostalgic about the way a book looks, feels and smells. I like turning the pages. I like looking at the front and back covers. And reading the inserts.

Yup, I'll take my flesh and blood, big books, to have and to hold and stack them on my bookshelf!

I like big books and I cannot lie! Now, where the heck am I going to put my Hedge Knight books?! I need a bigger book shelf!

Oops!

I did something bad.

I kind of ordered 6 of those Funko vinyl figures. You know, the ones for Game of Thrones. Can't imagine how that happened?!

Somehow, as if by magic, or by unseen forces, the Hedge Knight, volumes one and two, were also ordered.

Um, the next Visa bill is going to be pretty interesting!

I think I need more shelf space.

Or an entire room in my house. :)

I am feeling a wee bit bummed.

I look at the clock every Sunday evening and think..."Yup! 9:00 p.m. Game of Thrones o'clock!"

Then, reality sets in.

How many more days until Season IV starts?! 277 days I think?

It's going to be *a very long winter indeed!*

Well, we have to wait another 290 days or so until Season IV, which begins March 2014. Man, is it going to be a very long winter.

I want to state that I am a HUGE Game of Thrones fan, as evidence of my blog, my articles for HBO Watch and my memorabilia are all proof. :)

I have to say that I was slightly disappointed with the season finale. To be more specific: the ending. I really thought that ending it off with Dany - once again - was a let down and totally burst my balloon.
I was left yelling at the television after the credits had started to roll. As in, "Give me a break already! What the hell is this?! The Dany Targaryen show?! Last time I looked, the title of the episode was called "Mysha." Yes, Dany is the 'Mother of Dragons' but there are other mothers in the Game of Thrones series.

You have every one's favourite wicked witch of Casterly Rock, Cersei.

Of course, we can't forget the totally awesome grandmother, Olenna Tyrell, who with a look, could freeze a person in their tracks and run roughshod over the strongest or sliest person. After all - you're talking about a woman who had the balls to stand up to Tywin. And live to tell the tale, too! Grandma got game!

Gilly the Wilding is starting to come out of her shell since escaping her cruel and depraved father.

There was mother to be Talisa Stark. May she rest in peace.

What about Catelyn Stark?! Now, there's a woman and a mother who had been thoroughly robbed of her purpose to live! There could have been a spectacular (or spooky way) of ending the season finale with her...

I loved everything in the season finale except the final scene.

Highlights: Tywin and Tyrion. And how Tywin totally intimidated Joffrey. Jaime and Brienne coming back to King's Landing. Davos risking his life to free Gendry. Bran and company meeting with Sam and Gilly. That was bittersweet. Hodor being Hodor. Yara standing up to her father and suiting up to go get Theon back and (hopefully) whipping Ramsay Snow to death. Sam being reunited with Jon! Arya and The Hound. ARYA!!!!!

Lows: Walder Frey and Roose Bolton gloating in the aftermath of the Red Wedding. SHAME ON YOU BOTH! They are MONSTERS!! Ygritte crying after shooting Jon with a few arrows. Really, Ygritte?! Ramsay Snow taunting Theon. Gross! C'mon, you knew he would flee! Showing Dany as the saviour of yet another city, Yunkai. While I am happy that she is finally acquiring some girl power and trying to right a few wrongs in a tough, unforgiving world, this ending was a huge let down. I can't recall a time where I was so unbelievably frustrated that I actually had a fandimonium tantrum!!!

Okay, end rant. I just wanted to get that off my chest! I respectfully state my opinion and that I totally respect other people's opinions about the story lines and endings.

#TeamArya

In light of the fact that the school year is coming to a close and that HBO's Game of Thrones is winding down (*sigh*), I've decided to pick up where I left off from last year.

I have been reading A Dance with Dragons.

And BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Is it ever a meaty read!

Action! Adventure! Betrayal! Surprise journeys! Power! Crime! Intrigue!

And ONE VERY BIG glitch that I did not see coming.

New characters. Shady pasts. Possible hope for a better future.

A lost, forgotten member of a House.

And that's all I'm going to say right now.

Happy reading to me! :)

I don't know how else to say this: but I am truly distraught.

Last night's episode just broke my spirit. I feel for House Stark, I really do. How much suffering can one House endure?!

I am NOT happy with House Frey or House Bolton at the moment and hope in time, that they find themselves in less than kind circumstances. As in fall on VERY hard times.

Ah, Arya. My heart just breaks for you. Ironically enough, your only source of comfort is the presence of the Hound.

Bran and Rickon: you must seperate to stay safe. It's going to be a hard journey.

Sansa, your husband will be bringing you bad news in next week's episode, I am sure.

I have to remember, this is Game of Thrones. Don't show weakness. Don't drop your guard.

You win or die. :(

So, we've come to the point where Tyrion and Sansa have now been united in holy matrimony. Or unholy. I guess it depends on how you look at it. I feel for the both of them - being used as political pawns at the behest of Tywin and Joffrey. I really wish Sansa would grow up and start showing a little more maturity - after all, it's Tyrion she's wedded to and not Joffrey. She also needs to develop a sense of cunning and keen wit. How else will she survive?

Joffrey was insufferable, as usual. However, for all the fans that can't stand him: I counsel patience. He will get his soon enough.

I find Shae annoying and a real idiot. When she said "Your father does not rule the world," to Tyrion when the news broke of Tyrion's impending nuptials, I thought what an absolute fool she was! Mind you, I've read the books and I didn't like her character to begin with, so I was on red alert with her.

I totally dug how Lady Olenna was trying to breakdown the very complicated and six degrees of separation relationships that both her grandchildren were going to have through marriage. Classic - she is the female version of Tywin, although her strength does not come from armies or brute force, but from wicked wit, intrigue and knowledge.

Cersei is nothing but a power hungry drunk. Funny, all those times she chastised Robert for drinking, eh? Her little speech to Margaery has really not endeared her to me. Mind you, I never liked Cersei to begin with. She thinks she has power and thinks she has the female gender's interests at heart but she does not. I've never seen a poorer example of a feminist being portrayed. Hence, I don't feel sorry for her and everything that she has coming to her, well, frankly, she deserves. The wedding banquet scene was priceless. I'm glad Tyrion insulted his nephew under the guise of being drunk. Or was he? Was that a spot of acting on Tyrion's part? And Tywin - very cleverly intervening - in order to save face in front of their guests and to disarm Joffrey's sadistic nature - was well timed. Who's playing who, you have to wonder...

Love Arya and the Hound. He doesn't get enough credit. He's kind of like Jaime. You can't stand them both equally and hope they get their just desserts. It's kind of weird - that moment where you actually start to like a character that you couldn't stand previously! The Hound is an observant, deep thinker. Nobody gives him credit.

The introduction of Daario Naharis into the fold is timely. He sure is nice eye candy to look at. I could feel the sparks fly between him and Dany. About time, too! And what about Melisandre? She's freaky! I'm glad Ser Davos is back in the fold, counselling Stannis. Someone needs to have some clarity and common sense where she's concerned! And let us not forget, the ravens, the hut, the dark frigid north and that eerie Weirdwood tree with all the noise from the ravens. And of course, Samwell the Slayer! Samwell has finally broken out of the timid shell. He attacked that White Walker first with his sword (but was unsuccessful), then with the Obsidian. Boo yeah! The White Walker cracked, as if made of glass, and shattered! Awesome! Three cheers for Samwell.

I'm bracing myself for the second wedding, which should take place over the final two episodes.

This wedding is not for the faint at heart - readers of the books will know exactly what I am talking about.

I have a feeling the royal wedding with Joffrey and Margaery will take place next season.

After all, I think Weiss and Benioff want to leave fans shocked, angry and above all, hungry for more!

It goes without saying that you'll have people that are happy to watch the series without reading the books. Fine, no problem.

However, if you've read the books, then you have a pretty good idea what may transpire on screen. The past two episodes, I've actually found that this was not the case. I understand that changes have to be made and that you can never really 100% fully adapt the pages to the screen.

I know there were some mixed reactions to last week's episode. I agree on two points: the ending scene with Jon and Ygritte and the Wall should not have been last. It didn't leave a powerful image in my mind, What should have been left to the end, for shock value and for a rise in tension, was Petyr Baelish's "The Climb" speech.

Wow, talk about power hungry and evil.

Dare I say....that the past few episodes with Jaime Lannister have actually started to change my opinion of the King slayer?! As in, I'm having a change of heart? I'm happy to see that he has started to become more human, away from the malicious influence of his deranged sister? That he had to suffer pain beyond humiliation, in order to feel again and get his blood pumping....to fan the fires of living again for revenge?!

First season, I loathed him. Now, I find that I am liking the fact that he has become human, with thoughts and feelings that nobody was previously witness to. I like Brienne because she seems to bring out a more sensitive side to Jaime. Perhaps these two lost souls were meant to form a strong bond.

As for the impending Frey Tully nuptials....aw man....don't want to go there...!

I wrote an episode review for Season III's episode #5 - "Kissed by Fire."

Have to say, it was a fantastic episode! Can't wait for next week! :)

Been real busy with work and report cards.....stay tuned for additional musings.

Would LOVE to see a scene with the mighty Tywin and the formidable Olenna. Imagine those two trading barbs! LOL

Olenna (aka the Queen of Thorns) and Margaery rock. Simply put.

Remember, Westeros is not an easy society to live in, especially if you're a woman. Oh, sure it helps if you have a pretty face, money and a powerful family.

Even those things may not be enough to save you from the constant threat of violence, assault and deceit.

Although, I must say, I quite enjoy every scene that has one or both of those ladies. The elder, wise in the ways of the world, court intrigue and politics is teaching and clearing the path for one who is younger, sexier and far more shrewd. Although Margaery has so far been careful the way she chooses her words and actions.

Love how she is getting under Cersei's skin.

Oh yes, and how daddy Tywin puts Cersei in her place. BOOM!

Can we please have a scene with Tywin and Olenna? Would love to overhear a conversation between those two...

I've been subscribing to Elio and Linda's http://www.westeros.org/ website.

These two people are amazing! I love this website - so comprehensive and full of links, forums, pictures, articles, fanfare and episode reviews.

Elio and Linda upload a weekly review of each episode. There are fan forums that people can post discussions on the books, the television series, theories, fan works, etc. I love it because it is everything a A Song of Ice Fire Fan could ever want for (with the exception of GRRM's website).

I follow Elio and Linda on Twitter. I totally recommend this website for people who need to get immersed in the GRRM culture.

Keep up the good work, Elio and Linda!

All I will say is that I was seriously disturbed by this past weekend's episode.

Just when you see Jamie making a change of heart...where he actually developing a conscience...off with his hand!

Westeros is no place for a woman. Or a man - if you make an attempt to flee or trust the wrong person.

Until next week.

Can't wait for a "ahem" white wedding...or should I say...'red?'

As an avid Game of Thrones fan, it's kind of funny that I am pre-ordering all the Funko Vinyl dolls.

And.....got an e-mail from Amazon. Season III can apparently be preordered now. Hm. Not that I am complaining.

Both are gifts that I am bestowing on myself. As any good Game of Thrones fan would!

:)

#DarkWingsDarkWords

As if there was any doubt! Due to the enormous popularity (and strategic campaigning) of HBO's Game of Thrones, it makes sense for them to green light a fourth season.

And why not? We, the fans, get to see more action unfold. George RR Martin acquires new fans, due to the books and people wanting to read them and jump on the bandwagon. As for DB Weiss and Daniel Benioff, it's a recipe for success: give the fans what we want while creating a high quality show.

Now, hopefully when it comes time for A Dance with Dragons to be green lit...they split it into two seasons, because that is one massive book!

I am a very content woman.

Everyone at the premiere party were pretty happy, too. Well worth the wait.

Some heavy dialogue between Tywin and Tyrion - and it was my favourite scene, to be honest. I also like how Margaery is doing her own thing, on  the sly helping the orphans and this may well be a very calculated move on her part. After all it's not like Joffrey has done anything to endear himself to the people of Westeros.

House Tyrell may be one of those Houses to keep an eye on. I can't wait to meet the 'Queen of Thorns.'

Samwell and gang are beleaguered, north of the Wall. Ghost was in fine form! As for Robb and the Stark banner men, Harrenhal was a ruin, a tomb of dead bodies. Only one person survived.

Is it April 7th yet?

"<" is the less than symbol.

As in, "there are < than 24 hours left to go until the Season III premiere of Game of Thrones!"

Yes! It's here! FINALLY!

I have two cakes for the occasion and have uploaded the images, so you can see one is for Team Lannister and the other for Team Stark!

Millions of fans have been anxiously awaiting and now....the realm is quiet.

It is the calm before the "storm."

Happy Easter and Happy Passover to those who are celebrating this long weekend.

BRING. IT. ON!

Less than a week to go.

My cake lady e-mailed me today, confirming that she would be making two amazing Game of Thrones themed cakes for this Sunday's party!

Oh yes, one more thing.

I got my MOM into Game of Thrones. All because she mentioned, "Oh by the way, I watched an episode, where I think it was a good man, he was surrounded by a lot of enemies and he was stabbed in the leg with a spear. Then, there was another man, very smug. He got rid of his own man for that action. I think the man who got hurt in the knee, his name was Ed? Or was it Ned? I can see why you like that series so much. I found it enthralling."

OH YEAH. MY MOM is AWESOME!

I went and bought her the first two books, in larger editions.

Yay for moms!

9 more days!

Two new trailers!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4XSeW4B5Rg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JUCQVQyQIw

FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Days away!! YEAH!!!

Two weeks left.

I have been watching all of the extras from the Season II Blu-ray DVDs. I must say, they are quite entertaining and educational. When you listen to all the characters speak of their respective Houses, past events and transgressions and point of view details, you are left to decide for yourself who is telling the truth, who is stretching it and who is outright lying.

It's a nice way to learn about the history and lore of Westeros.

My favourite extras are the House Lannister, House Stark and House Tyrell shorts.

14 days. Can't wait!

AWESOME.

COLOURFUL.

DETAILED.

PACKED!

This Game of Thrones Exhibit at the Design Exchange surpassed the one that I attended last year at the Bell TIFF Lightbox centre.

In total: 399 pictures were taken.

Submitted my review of the exhibit to the good folks at HBOWatch.

Will post some new pictures for your viewing pleasure.

Less than three weeks! Hip hip HOORAY!

I am having a serious case of NERD RAGE RIGHT NOW.

YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW PATIENT I'VE BEEN...

Now, finally, after a very long autumn and dreary winter, the light is at the end of the tunnel.

I have tickets to go see the Game of Thrones Toronto exhibition at the Design Exchange for this Monday night.

I would've gotten tickets to go all week if I could! I also have other obligations and work commitments to attend to during March Break.

Oh. Ma. Gawd. 21 days left to go.

I have been updating my Twitter and Facebook accounts to the point where I'm sure friends of mine probably hide my annoying status update feeds, because I tend to get, how shall I say - 'carried away?'

MARCH 31 - I can now say, you are just around the bend!

NOT LONG NOW! BOO YEAH!

EXTENDED TRAILER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I cannot begin to explain how excited I am over this new development. I think I watched the extended trailer at least 100 times.

Okay, maybe 200.

It's not March.

Nope, not in my humble opinion. Yes, we said "goodbye" to February.

This month will be officially known as "Game of Thrones" month.

Brace yourselves, FB, Twitter and blog friends. More annoying status updates are on their way!

Less than 30 days.

AWESOME.

BRING ON THE DRAGONS, THE UNSULLIED, THE REEDS, MANCE, THE WILDLINGS, TYRION AND ARYA.

In case you didn't see it on Jimmy Kimmel last night, here is the link to the new trailer.

The song is called "Bones" by UK band Ms Mr.

March 31 - HURRY UP!!!!!!!

http://io9.com/5986393/game-of-thrones-season-3-trailer-unleashes-the-dragons