A Game of Thrones: Graphic Novel Volume 3 by George RR Martin

9/10

Writer: Daniel Abraham
Illustrator: Tommy Patterson

Starting from issues #13, to #18, this follows on from the first two volumes of collected Game of Thrones comics. The wraparound cover is made up of sketch art of the main characters in their setting flanked by a crow. With the thought that only the best writer and artist team would do to make a classic fantasy saga A Game of Thrones into a graphic novel, Daniel Abraham and Tommy Patterson were chosen to bring the book to life by adapting it for that real comic feel that would appeal to young and older fans alike.

King's Landing is the setting for King Robert Baratheon's rule with Cersei as his queen, but deceit and deception lurk behind the scenes while Jaime Lannister comforts Cersei as only he can, even though e is her brother.  Lord Eddard Stark is the trusted Hand of the King and even he has no idea who to trust with a fair choice of enemies in the king's court. Secretly, Cersei harbours great hatred for her husband, the king though this doesn't stop her plotting behind his back. Cersei has had the king's child, yet there is doubt as to his true heritage. Living in the shadows of everyone's greatness is Tyrion Lannister, known as the Imp for his short stature and lack of resemblance to the family. He also harbours secret thoughts of revenge against his father, liking his own brother and sister even less. The Starks on the other hand have led a decent life so far as Eddard has done his best as the king's trusted advisor, though others are jealous of a Stark having suck high standing at court. When the king goes out on a boar hunt, he doesn't expect that he will give him much sport until it gores him, making him bedridden.

In A Game of Thrones there are several settings where drama thrives. King's Landing, the home of Robert Baratheon and the Lannisters. Jon Snow, the bastard son of Eddard Stark is to be sent to the Wall to be initiated into the Nights' Watch and knows nothing of what lies beyond the Wall, the wolves and Wildlings. Across the Narrow Sea, another brother and sister plot greatness, though Daenerys Targaryen has a strong Dothraki warlord to keep her safe, and Khal Drogo won't allow her brother to try and take over.

Mystery and intrigue are only around the corner in this well adapted and illustrated novel for fans of Game of Thrones, they will be glad it's the third in a series.