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A Dance with Dragons Explained | Full Book Summary & Analysis

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This content is a detailed chapter-by-chapter review and analysis of "A Dance with Dragons," the fifth book in George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series. It delves into the strengths and weaknesses of each point-of-view character's arc, highlighting plot developments, character growth, and thematic elements.

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I just want to say before this video

starts, thank you for everybody that's

watched these or watched even any of the

parts of this, but this is a full

review. It has every part, my full

coverage on Advanced Dragons starting

from chapter 1 all the way to the end of

the book, my review, my ranking of the

POVs. I hope you guys all enjoy. Um,

this was a long project. It took me a

long time to get this fully done, and I

hope you guys all enjoy it. So, I'll see

you guys maybe in another retrospective

or maybe not. Maybe we won't do it. I

know the series wasn't viewed the best,

but again, enjoy the video, guys.

>> When you play the Game of Thrones, you

>> subscribe and like

>> or you die.

There is no middle ground.

>> A dance of dragons came out on July

12th, 2011, about 6 years after the

release of A Feast for Crows and 11

years past A Storm of Swords. So, in a

lot of regards, we had not seen

characters like Daenerys, Jon Snow,

Tyrion, Davos, Bran, a lot of our major

characters that we had come to love for

11 years. And when you put that into

context, think about it like this. Us

Waiting for Winds of Winter right now is

a comparative length of time of reading

those certain characters, right? So,

again, it's a bit different because

Feast for Crows came in that time. So,

we still had a Song of Empire content,

but your favorite character more than

likely probably was not in the last

book. So, you hadn't actually seen your

best characters, your favorite

characters in a very long time at this

point when this book was coming out. So,

let's also think about it from this

point of view. And so, I want you guys

to think about this if you are a Song of

Ice and Fire fan. within a couple months

of each other during the first season of

A Game of Thrones as it would premiere

on April 17th, 2011 and would broadcast

the entire first season getting to the

release of A Dance with Dragons. So, A

Dance with Dragons in a lot of ways was

on a high, right? Because people were

reinvigorated to get back into their

favorite characters, but also Game of

Thrones its popularity. Now, it it

wouldn't reach its popularity in the

first season, but it would garner a lot

of that interest back. The first season

is by loved by many people. It's one of

the best seasons of the show, and so it

really would have drawn all those fans

that were still waiting for the series

right back into this series. And so, A

Dance with Dragons had a lot of hype

around it in my opinion. Now, was I

someone that was reading this book in

2011? No. I was 11 years old, so I would

not have been reading this when it came

out. But I want to think about it from

this point of view of Danny, Tyrion,

John are back. Three main characters are

back. Game of Thrones season 1 has just

come out along with the rest of the

series that's going to be coming out as

well. It was wellreceived the first

season in this regard. Everything was

looking really up. And so we get into a

Danced Dragons and that leads us to does

this book pay that off, right? Is this a

good book? Is this a bad book? What is

this book? And when we get into this

retrospective, I'm going to talk about

it in a lot of ways. This book has a lot

of ups. It has a lot of downs, right?

It's almost the polar opposite of A

Feast for Crows in its structure. A

Feast for Crows has a lot more more

minor characters. It has a lot more of

the plot lines in the background that

were happening almost offscreen or

building up to offscreen and a Storm of

Swords and then they kind of explode in

A Feast for Crows. There's a lot of

reactionary things that happen because

of things that happen in Storm of

Swords. A dance with dragons is almost

no different. But think about the

comparison between A Dance of Dragons

and Winds of Winter. The beginning of

this story and A Dance with Dragons is

going to be a lot about reminding the

audience what happened, right? It's been

11 years since we've touched a lot of

these plots. But that'll get us into the

first chapter of the book with Vamir.

Now, I will say right away, I think of

the five openings of the main books,

this is my least favorite. It is a lot

of And why I say that is because in my

opinion, it does the least in terms of

the entire world. Like when you look at

Pate, Pate is a really interesting POV

into our first look at Oldtown. He is

going to connect to a bunch of different

plot lines, whether that be Ario,

whether that be Sam, whether that

connects to future stuff with like

Marwin and things like that. He also

gives us kind of a fresh perspective,

the common person and how the corruption

of this world works, which I find very

interesting. And also going on that

really awesome idea of the heart and

conflict. This is not that. This is very

much a POV that is focused solely on

really one uh plot line in this book.

You could argue too, but I would say

it's it's really just for Bran. And this

is a very interesting way to start out a

book. If you look at all of the main

POVs that people do not like, Bran is by

far the least entertaining POV I think

for most people. And so starting out a

POV with or starting out the book with a

POV that is directly correlating with Bran

Bran

is interesting. And so to me, I don't

like it too much because it's just

straight up it's it's Warging, right?

How does Wargging work in this world

from somebody that's other than Bran? We

haven't seen Wargan too much in this

world when it comes to how does it work?

What is its powers? What are the rules

to it? And so a lot of this is setting

up Bran. It really think makes us think

about Bran quite a lot and how we think

about the character because when you

think about what you shouldn't be doing,

right, as your animal, it really relates

to Bran because we've seen Bran take the

mind of another human in Hodor. That's a

big no no. We're going to see Bran

eating a man's flesh through a wolf.

Kind of a no no once again. So there's a

lot of nos that we're seeing through

Bran. So this chapter makes us in a lot

of ways recontextualize the way we think

about a character like Bran. But let me

talk about a little bit of brief summary

of what happens in the chapter. So we're

introduced into this character of Vamir

who is a skin changer like Bran but just

a very powerful one. And he is fleeing

the battle of the wall. This is taken up

directly after um Stannis had come

through and won the battle for the wall.

And we see the rest of the wildlings

that had survived and how they were

falling back. Some were going to the

east and some were just dying off.

Right? These are a people that you're

struggling to find food, struggling to

find warmth. And it's a lot about this

desperation Vimir trying to live on. And

it's seeing that again the others are

still a huge threat north of the wall

and really establishing why the

wildlings came south to kind of begin

with. And again, personally, it's just a

it's almost a reminder chapter for the

John plot line, but it's a big plot.

It's a big POV to set up Bran, and it

does it pretty well. Like I I won't say

like this chapter does well for what

it's trying to do. I just don't like

what it's really trying to do that much.

I think there's a lot of other POVs that

would have been more interesting to

start this book with other than Vamir.

And so, to me personally, I was not a

big fan to the way this book starts.

Now, I will say another thing I want to

mention here because when I looked at A

Feast for Crows, I think George R.

Martin took a step back and realized

some of the issues people had with A

Feast for Crows. Because one of the

things I talked about with A Feast for

Crows that's so different than this book

is going to be is A Feast for Crows,

George R. Martin takes a lot of leaps.

He kind of frontloads a lot of the newer

plots, right? the Greyjoy plot and the

Martell plot are almost completely

frontloaded into the first half of the

book. And so when you look at that book,

the way it starts, it's, you know, you

have Pate, you have, I think it's Aeron

is second, and then Ario. You have

three, you know, newer POVs. POVs people

are just not going to care as much about

until you get to Cersei, who is chapter

4. This book does not do that. This book

jumps right into the characters that

people were wanting to read. And it

starts in probably the best way. I think

everyone wanted to see what Tyrion was

going to be up to after that stuff that

happens in Storm of Swords. How is he

going to be affected as a character?

What is his plot going to be looking

like as the story goes forward? And so

we get to Tyrion 1 as the second chapter

of the book. And I think Preston Jacobs

sums up this chapter perfectly. In a lot

of ways, it is just a catch-up chapter

trying to remind us what happened in the

last book and now catching that up to

how is that affecting Tyrion? Now, we've

see Tyrion as this character that's he's

defeated in a lot of ways. He's gone

straight to alcoholism. He is

questioning if he even wants to be alive

at this point of the story. It's a

really interesting psychological dive

into what Tyrion is going to experience

in this chapter. And Tyrion is a

character that I think is a tale of two stories.

stories.

I think I really like him in the first

half of the book and the second half of

the book he's not so good. I like Tyrion

when he's interacting with characters

that are interesting to the story that

can either outwit Tyrion or make Tyrion

use his wits or have some bigger

relevance to the plot. And so seeing

Tyrion try to figure out what Yo

Mopatis' motivations are is quite

interesting because we as the readers

also don't know what Yo's motivations

are. Again, remember the last time we

really see Yo is in the first book with Arya.

Arya.

And so we've heard about Ayio here and

there, right? We know that Barristan was

sent to Dany through the help of Yo, but

we don't know what game is playing at

this point, right? Because the plan

doesn't really go well, right? The

Dothraki are supposed to come over with

the Targaryenss and start a war, right?

But that is kind of up for suspicion

here in this chapter. It's already

brought up like why is Yo helping Dany

and it just isn't for profits and Tyrion

kind of notices that. So, I like the

back and forth between the two

characters, but again, this chapter is

pretty dark. It's a lot of Tyrion

dealing with his trauma, drinking

himself nearly to death, and being as

pessimistic and awful as possible.

Whether that's interacting with T uh

Yo's servants, whether that's

interacting with Yo as well, whether

that's Tyrion interacting with himself,

the way he kind of beats him up or

things like that. All of this makes

perfect sense into the psychology of

Tyrion. And I know a lot of people have

a issue with the way Tyrion is in this

book, but it's completely natural. It's

the way Tyrion should be as a character.

And so that old Tyrion, which again was

still Tyrion, right? Tyrion is still

Tyrion. It's just because of the events

that have happened, he has leaned into

that darker side of Tyrion that's always

been there. Alt Shift, Alt Shift X makes

a really good video on the real Tyrion

Lannister. And one of the things he

really talks about that is he looks back

at a lot of the moments of especially A

Clash of Kings and some of the things

that Tyrion did that were quite awful.

Whereas us the audience were rooting for

Tyrion but they are quite awful things.

He leans into more of those things

especially in this book.

Again I I noted here that I think a lot

of people dread Tyrion in some of his

earlier chapters because it is a lot of

a recap. I personally really do enjoy

Tyrion 1 and two and even again I like

Tyrion really from here all to the young

griff stuff and so I don't have a really

a big problem with Tyrion at this part

of the um book. I also do like again him

playing the game of thrones with yo and

also I also like the reveal at the end

of Tyrion going to Danny which again was

obvious like I feel like anyone real

reading Tyrion or even let's go back in

time let's say after Storm of Swords

there was you know YouTube wasn't really

a big thing then but if there was I

think if people would have been making

prediction videos it would have been

obvious that Tyrion was going to help

Dany that would have been an obvious

prediction so this isn't like this huge

big reveal but it is something that

George needed to establish, right? Give

Tyrion that focus, right? The big

focuses of this book for Tyrion are

going to be getting to Dany and two, his

character, right? Is he going to lean

further further into that darker side of

Tyrion or will he find some sort of

atonement? Will he find some sort of uh

higher purpose to bring him out of that

state? And that's really what Tyrion 1

is all about. Again,

that gets us into the third chapter of

the book, Danny One. So, again, Danny 1

is another one of these chapters that

it's really a lot of a catch-up. But I

will say this just really goes to prove

that George does listen to feedback. He

does understand what things people don't

like in previous books and is willing to

adjust accordingly. Because think about

it, the first four chapters of this book

are Vamir, which again, it's the first

chapter of the book. you knew it was

going to be a different POV, right? So,

you give him a pass there. But then 2,

three, and four are Tyrion, Danny, and

John. The three POVs everybody wanted to

see. And so, I think that is not a

coincidence. George understood what he

wanted to do. And I want to get this out

of the way right away because very

similar to Tyrion, is that Dany has a

stigma, especially for this book, that

she's just pretty meh in this book. And

I can see where that is coming from. But

personally, I do like Dany in this book.

I I think she goes on a different

journey and puts her and George puts her

in a very uncomfortable situation.

Whereas Dany her whole life after book

one has kind of been this conqueror,

this person that is trying to gain

power, then to go to Westeros. And we

have this big reveal in book three that

she's not going to do that, right? She's

going to try and rule. And so she's

going to struggle with that. She's never

ruled anything before. Even back in, you

know, book one or book two or these

things, she's not exactly ruling over a

place, right? The Dothraki, yes, she has

some sway over Drogo, but she's not the

person in charge of everyone, right?

That is still Drogo. Here, it is her.

She is the one making the decision. She

is the one that if the society fails,

it's on her. And so, she's dealing with

a lot of different things. And so George

sets this up all perfectly in this first

chapter because we have to see what is

Danny's goal of this book. What is

George going to do in this book for the

character? And so we have first we have

the sons of the harpy creating issues

for Dany. And this is very interesting

right away because in the past Dany has

gone against other forces, right, in

battles and sieges, but she's never

fought a war of of a shadow war more or

less of people being killed in the

streets. How do you find these people?

What motivates people to give you

information to track them down and kill

them or imprison them? Danny has never

had to deal with that. And that's gonna

be something that's very relevant to

this book for her as a character. But

again, we see that an unsullied man has

been killed. It is interesting because

we see that Dean's rule is far from

secure and establishes right away the

central theme of her arc. How to rule

something that she has not really done

before, right? How is she going to deal

with different personalities like

Resnack and the Shave Page? How is she

going to deal with a culture that's very

different from her own? We have seen her

integrate into other cultures like the

Dothraki, but she's struggling with the

ways of the Marines. The Marines are

slaver people that was built upon their

roots or the the past, you know, hundred

years or so. How do you change an in an

entire society's culture in a blink of

an eye? How do you how do you do that,

right? Because if you even think about,

again, I'm American, so I like to

reference United States history quite a

lot. How do you go from a point of

slavery to everyone being free? How does

that work? How do you get groups of

people that have been against each other

for a long time to reconcile and

integrate into that culture? And we're

still seeing some of those divides even

now. But going into the story, think

about that. It's very difficult because

you have some people who might have had

a better life in slavery. Even though

slavery isn't evil, they themselves

benefited from slavery. Which is an

interesting dilemma for Danny to

overcome because Danny realizes, and us,

the audience, agree with Danny, that

slavery is bad. But what do you do when

someone tells you they would rather be

enslaved? It's an interesting dilemma

that Dany is going to have to go through

in this book. But what this chapter does

is set her up for the future. How is

Dany going to deal with personalities

like Varys and Littlefinger, things that

Robert had to do? This is really a lot

of that prelude to what Dany will have

to deal with in Westeros. And it's a lot

of kind of that training. It's it's a

building book for Dany. But we see her

sitting the throne giving advice to

multiple people or on issues like the

yung kai and the fighting pits and

eventually ends with Dy's worst fear,

her dragons killing a child. Again, this

is great because it plays exactly on

what Dany is going to have to overcome.

Outside of all the politics going on,

her trying to rule, she also has to deal

with her dragons. Her dragons are

getting bigger. They're growing more

fearless and violent. What does she do

with that? And we're not going to figure

out what she does instantly. Yeah,

that's going to come in the next

chapter. But it poses an interesting

question for Dany. Is she still in

control of them? Obviously not because

they've killed a child at this point.

Something that Danny's not really had to

worry about up to this point. She has to

now realize how dangerous they are. And

that is a really awesome way to build a

Danny's chapter. I think Danny's first

chapter is obviously better than Tyrion.

Her chapter is not as much a catch-up

chapter. It still is, but it kind of

gets right to the point. It really

focuses on exactly what her POV is going

to be about. Whether you like that or

you don't like what her POV is about in

this book, I like that George is direct

with this character and we understand

right away. There's no dillydallying

about what her POV is about. All right,

so getting into John one. John one I

think is very similar in a lot of ways

to Danny one. It's really about

exploring again what happened in the

past. So where are we at this point of

the story? But also, it's about just

establishing where this character of Jon

is going to be. Right? This chatter

follows Jon dealing with Stannis and the

issues of trying to please a king who

saved them while also trying to stay

neutral. Because again, if you're in the

Night's Watch at this point, you're in a

very precarious position. You don't want

to be seen as helping Stannis because of

Tywin and the Lannisters rule. That's

not a good look for you. You want to be

able to get as much aid from them as

possible. You're in a very sorry state.

So you have to deal with how do you

manage those different personalities. We

also see again a lot of this chapter

also focuses on Stannis. This is almost

a almost a like POV into Stannis as a

whole because we see that Stannis is

struggling to gain support in the north.

He has sent Davos to treat with White

Harbor. But again, if we go back to

Feast with Feast for Crows, we know that

that doesn't seem to have gone well or

at least something happened to where

Davos is presumed dead. So that is a

play that Stannis is trying to do. But

we also see that Stannis is not

garnering much support from the northern

houses as a whole as the Mormonts have

now recently turned him down and White

Harbor has gone silent. But Stannis also

talks on the fate of Mans and how he

will be burned which also Jon is not a

big fan of either. Jon has kind of come

to respect Mans quite a lot and burning

is not a good way to go. It's probably

one of the worst ways possible to go

out. It's not a painless death. It's you

are in pain for quite a while and then

die. And so Jon kind of sees this as a

stupid because you can use Mance in a

lot of ways to control the wildlings

more if he's alive than if he's dead.

And that's something that we even see

that I think even Mel realizes as well.

But at this point, that's not the case.

But Stannis wants to reinforce the

castles on the wall with his own men.

Again, Stannis is seeing this as the

Night's Watch has all these castles, but

none of them are manned. So, Stannis

thinks, "Okay, let's man these castles.

Let's get the wall to be strengthened."

But that runs into a problem because

these castles are not Stannis's to do

so, right? These are the Knights Watches

castles. They stay neutral. That is not

allowed. And John says that, right? He

refuses this, only allowing that his

officers be in charge. Stannis wants to

give him men. Fine, but he will have the

men that will be over them. And this

frustrates Stannis, right? Stannis in a

in a lot of ways. This is a frustrating

time, right? The North is not rallying

to him like he would have hoped. He is

not getting as much as he would require

from Jon as he would like after he

believes he saved them, which he did.

But he's again a very precarious

position for Jon. And this is going to

encompass a lot of the early part of the

story for Jon. How does he deal with

people like Stannis and Mel? But Mel

follows him and warns him of foes behind

his back and daggers in the dark and

quotes a line from Egret. He knows

nothing. Again, it's a great open

because in a lot of ways this chapter is

just a refresher for the Jon plot line

and the Stannis poem which will be heavy

focuses of this book, but it also kind

of is foroding for the future, right? We

already have this foreshadowing of Jon's

death. We see that Jon is someone that

is struggling to play politics to be a

leader and also getting this very

cryptic line of Mel knowing Egret's

famous line. All very interesting and

also kind of peels back some of that

wound that Jon still has for Egret.

Again, it's been quite recently she

died. So again, just something that

would be something that would get under

Jon's skin a little bit. But that gets

us into Bran one, chapter five.

Something I want to point out, Bran is a

character that I think we give a lot of

criticism towards. He's probably one of

the worst POVs of the entire story in my

opinion. But I will say his at least his

first two chapters in this book are

pretty good. I have them ranked pretty

nicely. I'm kind of doing it differently

this time than I did for Feast for Crows

where I'm ranking them as I read them.

So it's a little bit more fresher in my

mind on how I want to rank things

instead of ranking them all at the end

based on my summaries and what I can

remember from them. So try to make it a

little bit more fresh. But I really

enjoy this first chapter for Bran

because it adds a bit of tension to

their story because I feel like a lot of

the problem with Bran's chapters are

there's not a lot of conflict or there's

not a lot of tension. It just kind of

feels like we're wandering around. This

chapter is not that. This chapter is

focused. We need to get here, but how do

we get to the cave? We are struggling,

right? And again, it picks up on the

ideas of who is the three-eyed crow? Who

is Cold Hands? That's a lot of this

chapter's focus. When you look at my

video talking about who Cold Hands is, a

lot of that information comes from this

chapter specifically. A lot of this

chapter's focus is on who he is and he

is not of the living. But again, this

chapter is filled with intrigue and

mystery. This chapter almost directly

correlates with the Vamir open to the

story. And again, that's one of the

reasons why I don't like the Vamir one

because I feel like it's almost a

connection to one part of the story and

really none of the others. But it's

really apparent here because we see Bran

continuously going into Summer, taking

more and more time out of his body as

he's just being lugged around and not

much is happening while they wait for

Cold Hands to come back with food and

things like that. And we also get this

disturbing description of how Bran is

going into Hodor who does not like the

process. Again, it makes you question

Bran and it's a lot of foreshadowing to

maybe things that will come to the

future. But it's very weird that Bran is

going into Hodor's skin a lot. And

George even takes the time to describe

very similar to Vamir's first chapter,

how Hodor is very uncomfortable with

this process. And Bran is basically

overpowering Hodor's will and taking

over his body and mind. That is very

scary to think about. And if Bran grows

more powerful, what is that going to

have on the effects of the story? What

will he do with that? Again, people have

kind of thought up because of the show,

was Bran someone that went into other

people's minds. Was Blood Raven doing

this in the past? Was he going into

Aerys's mind? That's why he went insane.

Maybe he was trying to give him

warnings, but instead it was something

that drove him mad. That's all very

interesting to think about when you look

at the future of the book series, things

that we could look at going back to the

past and how that could possibly be

affecting the world. At this time, we

also see that Summer interacts and takes

over the pack that we saw in the

prologue of Wolves. So again, just Bran

asserting his will and dominance, which

is again very interesting to see as

well. But we see Bran and Summer's body

actually eating the Knights Watchmen.

And this is very key because in a lot of

ways Bran is once again doing something

he shouldn't be doing. He is eating man

flesh in his wolf's um body. That is not

good. That is cannibalism more or less

because eventually we also see that cold

hands comes back to the group saying he

slaughtered a pig which is highly

doubtful. Think about the way Vamir is

described as there's no food around in

the first chapter. We even our group

here they're not finding much food to

eat and you think about it and you go

wait a second there was just some people

that were killed. the wolves were eating

them and now all of a sudden it seems

that cold hands has found some food. So

it's very much led to led for us the

audience believe that yeah they probably

went to some cannibalism here. So Bran

again eating other humans not good and

so there's a lot of intrigue a lot of

things we can look to speculate on the

rest of the story but again really good

uh open chapter for or opening chapter

for Bran that I really do enjoy. That

gets us to number six or chapter six,

Tyrion 2. So, Tyrion 2 is definitely not

as good as Tyrion 1. I think there's

much more interesting stuff between the

two characters of Tyrion and Yo, whereas

this one, it's a lot more of a travel

chapter. It's more about giving us the

histories of Essos or where they are

specifically in Essos. It's more to

establish where Tyrion is going to be

going in the future. Again, it is

explained at this chapter that Tyrion

will travel with a man named Griff to

deliver him to Dany. Already, this kind

of seems fishy because Yria notes that

the Golden Company have broken a

contract. And we get a famous line here

that it doesn't matter what the dragon

is, red or black, as long as they can go

home and it's a dragon. That is a very

interesting line that does not seem to

add up with the history of the Golden

Company. And that already is going to

get the wheels kind of turning for us

the readers as to hm what is yo actually

up to because we're going to get more of

this in the third Tyrion chapter. But

that's very fascinating because we also

get more into Yo's backstory as well

here. But again, we get to in some

interesting lore about Essos and the

political climate. But the more

interesting points is about Yo and

Varys's past, how the two operated, how

they interacted. It really paints the

picture of why Varys has become the

person that he is. But we also get his

ex-lover in which Yrio still has her

hand. And could this be a Blackfire?

That would prove a lot of that would

make a lot of reasoning as to why young

Griff a would be a Blackfire and why

loves him so much. That's a really

interesting point. And this again Tyrion

connects with about his past in Taiisha.

Again, the two can connect on their

really flawed pass when it comes to

love. And that gets me to, I think,

probably my weakest chapter of the first

like 200 pages of the story. And I've

talked about this a lot. I'm not a

Quentyn guy. I just do not like this

character. I don't really feel like he

provides much to the story. I think if

he's a lot like Sam to me for a feast

for crows where I think if we just skip

Quentyn's journey and have him be

brought up when he meets Danny through

like Danny's POV that would be

completely acceptable. I I just don't

feel like this is needed. But let's talk

about what the first Quentyn chapter

does and maybe what things I just don't

really particularly like about this

storyline. This chapter is a main focus

on Quentin, who he is as a character.

And again, he has been keeping his

identity hidden and is on a mission to

reach Dany and marry her. Again, all of

this is self-explanatory. We already

knew this from the already chapters in

Feast for Crows. So, really, it's just

rebringing that to the table. As I know,

there are people that didn't like a lot

of the more minor plots like the Dornish

plot. And so, George wants to refresh

the reader onto what is going on here.

But to me, it's just like nothing

particularly interesting happens in this

chapter outside of okay, our crew with

Quentyn realize they're going to have to

become part of a cell sword company to

get to Dany because there's not really a

good way in which they can get to her

cuz Slaver's Bay at the moment is a very

dangerous place to travel to. We get

some interesting things here and there

that uh during their passage some of

their companions have already died. One

of them being a a maester which was very

detrimental to them. But they are again

struggling to find passage to marine

because of the war breaking out. They

are stuck in ver in Volantis for the

time being. Again they attempt to get

passage from a smuggler. But this seems

like a very bad idea as it seems like

they're being fooled and it's unlikely

to actually end well. But either way on

their way back from the docks they

encounter some windb blown looking for

recruits and the party realize this is

their only option to get to Dany. Again,

personally, I don't really care about

Quentyn. I don't find his character that

interesting. He's just another failed

love interest for Danny really. And I

think he his death, if he is dead, I

believe he is dead. Other people do not.

His death will have more meaning on

other characters like Aron, like Duran,

and some of the moves that they go

forward with. So, I feel like D or

Quentyn is not exactly his own

character. He's more a character for

other characters like Daenerys, like

Barristan, and like the other Dornish

I've talked about. And so this character

just comes off as flat. Like this this

chapter by far of all the chapters we've

gotten so far is the least impactful.

Like this chapter didn't need to be

here, right? Like what is the difference

between getting Quentyn with Danny later

on in the story and Quentyn just goes

yeah I you know I tricked the wind blown

and I ended up traveling to you and then

getting the big reveal that you know

Viseris was supposed to marry Arion but

now he is going to marry her. That's

going to be how they're going to do the

deal and all of that. I think that works

the exact same except it gets rid of

some of this fluff andor filler that I

think Quentyn has in this book. But that

gets us to John two. Now John 2 is very

interesting because it's a flip of Sam

one in a feast for crows. And I

mentioned this a lot when we did that

chapter in the last book. It's an

interesting take of how to do this

because something that that chapter

really does well for Sam one and Peace

for Crows is it shows like why is Jon

making these decisions? It makes us just

like Sam questioning Jon. And so even in

that book, one of the big things that it

builds up for the story already is Jon

is someone that is really isolating

himself from his friends. He's not

making people like him andor respect him

as much as they probably could. And it's

leading people to question him because

his communication skills are not the

best. And so I love the way George flips

this. So in this chapter, we can

actually see a lot of what Jon is doing

and we understand his motivations.

Albeit we think I think that he could do

things a little bit better and explain

things better. The whole chapter is

really the focus of Jon killing the boy

and becoming the man. He is trying to

make some moves that he believes are not

going to make him wellliked but are what

needs to be done for the greater good.

Again, we see Jon commanding Gilly to

take Mance's child and Sam is forced to

go south Aean. And again, it's a hard

chapter to look at because we know all

this stuff is going to happen and what

it ends up leading to, right? Like we

know because Aean goes south that ends

up getting him killed. So in a lot of

ways Jon is responsible for Aean dying

even though Aean kind of dies more of

natural causes than anything. It's

interesting to realize this stuff with

hindsight of looking at what Jon's

decisions are going to lead to. And we

can understand Jon's rationale

perfectly. We understand that this baby

is going to die if Gilly does not take

him. We know that they need more

maesters. Sam needs to become a maester.

That's for the greater good to find more

about the others. We know that Aean

needs to go south or else he might get

burned. And that's something Maester

Aean does not deserve. And so we

understand all of Jon's decisions, but

still it's hard to read because these

are hard things and he's isolating all

the people that we care about a lot and

are John's staunchest supporters. But at

this we get some of my favorite parts of

this. the rest of the chapter. Again,

the second half focuses on some of the

forts remanded and repaired as best as

possible. But this leads to a great

payoff and it's really awesome for me

because I'm just now reading I'm getting

to that section in the Game of Thrones

reread where Janice Slint is coming into

prominence. He's betrayed Ned. He's just

gotten Harrenhal on Tuesday in the video

we did with Sans of 5. He is finally

getting his comeuppance. And so Jon

basically gives him an order and he

refuses it. And watching Jon figure out

how to deal with Slint and executing

Slint is fantastic because we see Jon

once again, he is not a bully anymore.

Slint is pleading, saying he's a coward,

and Jon still kills him. And one of the

best scenes that they executed from

season 5, from the book to season 5

anyway, is this scene. And we see again

Stannis's nod of approval at the end of

the chapter. It's kind of that nice

little cherry on top. And by far, it is

my favorite chapter of the first nine.

It's just a big moment for Jon's

character and for the story as a whole.

Something we've been waiting on for a

long time. So, Tyrion 3 again, chapter

nine gets us to meeting young Griff and

getting to that party and getting away

from Yo. And so, in this chapter, he

meets Halden and Duck. We get some nice

little nods to the Blackfire theory

again as Yio is gifting many things to

young Riff and makes us think about wait

how come Dany and Viseris did not seem

like they got any of these things. Only

Dany seemed to get a lot of these gifts

and that was because she was married or

marrying Cal Drogo in the first book.

But the three travel to the ship having

conversations about the shrouded lord,

which is also very interesting given

some theories about this could be

Tyrion's uncle, which is also very

interesting. And how Duck was kned by

Griff, because this is very interesting

as well. We now know that Griff must be

a knight and there's not many knights in

Essos. So all of that's very fascinating

because it's going to get the gears

turning for Tyrion. But all this is very

interesting. But the best part is him

meeting young Griff and eventually Griff

because Tyrion sees a lot of his father

Tywin in John Conington which is

interesting given that John Conington

wishes he had been more like Tywin. He

could have ended Robert's rebellion. And

so a lot of this is very interesting. It

gets us into I think the best part of

Tyrion in this book. And I think the

first three Tyrion chapters are all

solid. I don't think any of them are

spectacular, but they are good enough to

get the job done and really get us to I

think really the peak part of Tyrion in

this book. So, moving on, we get Davos

1. And this is again, it's a prelude.

It's really a prelude to the amazing

chapters we're going to get going

forward with Davos uh in this story. But

again, it's a reflection chapter. It's

really what it is. It's reflecting and

piecing together what happened between a

storm of swords during the timeline of

Feast for Crows and here. And so we see

that because of storms they have

shattered Salidor son's fleet and Davos

has been left stranded in Sisterton.

Davos has been captured as he was trying

to smuggle his way to White Harbor but

is caught. Again, this is going to

directly reflect what happens to Ned in

Robert's Rebellion. Something I talked

about in a past video as well. But this

is interesting, right? Because how is

this going to work with the with the

lord here with Lord Burrell? how is he

going to deal with this situation?

Right? But Lord Bell and Davos have a

conversation about what to do with him

and we get some interesting information

about the history of the sisters. Again,

as I talked about earlier about the

Roberts Rebellion stuff, it's a direct

comparison to what's happening here.

Stannis, albeit maybe isn't in the best

position at the time. Who's to say he

doesn't actually end up gathering the

North. If he was to defeat the Boltons,

that'd be a huge win. Rallying the North

behind him. Who knows what could happen?

Tywin is dead, right? That's something

that Davos finds out in this chapter.

Tommen at this point is on the throne

with really bad counselors. We see how

all that plays out in Peace for Crows.

And so, yeah, there's something that

Lord Brell really has to think about.

But we also not only get the Roberts

Rebellion stuff, we also get the kind of

the history of the Sisterton and the

Sisters as a whole as how the veil of

the North would constantly fought over

it until it was eventually brought into

Aegon's kingdom. But overall, this

chapter is a great chapter to build on

for Davos. George is really just showing

us what happened with Stannis in this

book, building up this plotline and

giving us a taste of what is to come in

the north with Davos. So, that gets us

to John 3. And I want to point this out,

right? We are only 11 chapters in and

we've gotten three Tyrion chapters and

three Jon chapters. Half of the first

part of this like little section is just

Jon and Tyrion. If that doesn't show you

that George took the advice of readers

in the past, of his fans and his readers

about the criticisms of A Feast for

Crows, this should tell you everything,

right? If we even think about the next

chapter, right? Out of the first 12

chapters, eight of them are John, Danny,

and Tyrion. I just want to point that

out as we go further in here. John 3.

Again, I I really praise what George is

able to do with his character because

this is just a really great chapter. I

love everything that it has relating to

John. Again, his plotline in this book

is really established by these first

three chapters, but the chapters open

with Mance Raider's execution or what we

believe is Mance Raider's execution. And

this is a really big moment, right?

Mance Raider has been built up as a

really big character at this point of

the story. And so, hindsight, we know

that this is a Mance Raider. But given

what we know at this point of the story,

this is a big moment. Like this is

really Jon's I wouldn't say his villain

of his arc because that's the others,

but it's been like his anti-hero of his

story. And so really big characters

going out and we see Mel performing this

ritual. But we again see the way Jon and

Stan and Stannis handle things quite

differently. Jon is not willing to let

this man be burned to death and commands

him to be shot with some arrows to again

just allow that to end quickly. Now this

is not actually Mance Raider. So it is

quite different. We are but it is quite

interesting. But something else we're

left to ponder here is that Mance Raider

starts saying that he was not the king

and that he wasn't all these things.

That leads you to think about this is

like is this just one desperate plea for

Mance Raider to get out of this? But no,

we know this is really the Lord of Bones

yelling this cuz he doesn't want to get

burned. That's very interesting. What

also does this tell us? It tells us that

Mel doesn't really believe that King's

blood is needed because it's the Lord of

Bones. It's not the king. And so, we've

kind of already realized this by the

time we get to Winds of Winter, but it's

not really King's blood that does it.

It's blood in general. It's blood magic

that's powerful. That's what gives power

in this world. We also see more of why

Jon is killed as he continues to try and

struggle with ruling and dealing with

people because at this point Bowen Marsh

does really respect Jon, but Bowen

suggests he block the gates. But Jon

disagrees, doesn't really express why.

Like he just says, "Oh, it'll leave us

blind." But he doesn't really expand

upon that. It just feels like a

one-sided conversation where Bow and

March is, you know, giving all these

reasons as to maybe why this could be

beneficial and just Jon just going,

"Nah, that's kind of how it feels." And

like we as the readers understand why

Jon doesn't want the gates to be blocked

because we're in his head. So we're

thinking, we're looking at his thoughts

and going, "Yeah, I understand that

rationale, but he's not saying those

things to Bow and Marsh." And so when

you have a building conflict, right,

where Bow and Marsh is going to have a

lot of these moments and a lot of people

in the watch will have this these

moments with Jon where they're giving

him some sort of idea that Jon doesn't

like, but Jon doesn't really give them

anything back. He just says no. And so

that's an interesting point. But we also

see that the Wildlings are basically

given a choice. You either bend the knee

and get some food and shelter or you're

basically told to leave. they can go

back up north with no clothing or well

with the clothing that they have but no

food really basically a death sentence

and so many do bend the knee to Stannis

and all of that and get food and things

like that but it doesn't really go the

way I think Stannis was kind of hoping

it would and so at this point right this

is why Bone March is like we need to

close the gates right because the

wildlings are going to come back if we

seal the gates it'll be much easier to

defend we don't have the men to defend

defend against another assault like what

happened with Mance. And that's a very

interesting point, right? Like if you

think about it, like if you think about

Bone and Marsh's rationale, we know the

others are out there. We know the

Wildlings are out there and they're

going to be coming south. We know all of

this. What is the point of having

scouts? Like what? Like what's the

point? Like the last time that they went

on a really big scouting party in book

two didn't go well. a lot of the watch's

strength died because of Mormont's

decision. Now, it was important to

understand what was going on, but at the

same time, it was also detrimental. So,

again, you can see both of the rationale

of both Mormont and Jon Snow, which is

what makes this chapter so interesting.

But not only that, we also see this

chapter having some internal conflict

about the Wildlings and the Night's

Watch relationship, right? How is Jon

going to circumvent that? but also how

is when he looks at his night watchmen

and how they react to the wildlings, a

lot of them are not too pleased. A lot

of them are not happy to have all of

these wildlings south of the wall. It

makes them feel uneasy. And if you're a

nights watchman, think about this. For

thousands of years, you've had these

issues with the nights watch and the

wildlings, right? And so, a lot of these

people don't have those experiences with

good wildlings, right? Or people that

are just normal people trying to make

their way to safety. They don't have

those relationships. A lot of people

have lost friends to these wildlings or

maybe even if you are living in the

north, family members. All of that is

very relevant to this whole argument

that's going to go on with Jon and the

other um Knights Watchmen. But we also

see Jon struggling with being a leader.

He has regret over Gilly, Aean, and Sam

as he hears of the storms that occurred

in Sam 2. Again, if you guys don't

remember, there was a big storm that

happens that ends up basically having

them struggling in around Skagos. It's a

really filler, one of the worst chapters

of A Feast for Crows, but that is what

Jon is kind of referring to at this

moment. But he also knows he can't be

friends with his men anymore and goes a

step further. So yeah, we see Jon

basically going to the dining area and

his friends want them to sit with him.

And Jon is about to, but then he thinks

this like he thinks about how Ned always

told him he can't be friends with his

men, right? you can't do that because

you may have to send them to die or

basically be sitting over them if they

commit a crime. And so John goes a step

further. He has all of his staunchest

allies, people that we have known from

book one, and sends them away, either

Shadow Tower or Eastwatch. And it's

another misstep from Jon because what

does this do? It isolates his staunchest

supporters, people that would be able to

understand him more and sends them other

places. And all in all, again, it's a

great chapter that really is a

culmination of John's entire arc in this

book and foreshadows much to come. And

that'll get us into chapter 12 or Danny

2. Again, I think it's another really

good chapter because just how I talked

about with the last two chapters for

Jon, this is a really good one. It's a

direct continuation of the issues built

up in the first Dany chapter. We see

more deaths have occurred with her

unsullied being slain by the Sons of the

Harpy. Again, one of which is actually a

brother to Missande. Doesn't really

happen in the show, but again, this is a

very big event. Missande is much younger

than she is in the show, and so this

really impacts her. But we see how Dany

deals with the Sons of the Harpy, and

what length she will go to get

information, right? She goes as far as

having these witnesses that who knows if

they're innocent or actually guilty, but

possibly tortured by the Sha Pay because

she's that desperate for information.

Again, you see those glimpses of things

that George can play on in Winds of

Winter where it's like Dany and her

desperation sometimes can make bad

decisions even if she thinks it's for

the greater good. But other things that

I find are very interesting in this

entire situation is how Dany again is

not really asserting herself. She's

playing more of a passive role, which is

much more different for her as a

character than we've seen in the past.

But Danny then has to be the one to

confront or com or comfort Missande and

struggles with how can she protect her

people, right? How is she going to

protect all these people that are

calling her mother, right? There's this

really cute line where Missande calls

Dany basically her protector and her

mother. And Danny struggles with that.

She feels guilty because she has the

weight of all these people's lives, but

yet people are still dying. But this

also makes her think about her real

children, the children that she has

always said as being her dragons. the

dragons have been imprisoned and how

they have failed to capture Drogon.

Dany is feeling an overwhelming sense of

loss of control. She feels like she

can't handle this this whole situation.

And again, what do we always talk about?

It seems like when Dany is at her lowest

point, her weakest point, she's either

having dragon dreams or being visited by

Quaith. And this is by far the most

interesting part of the chapter because

we always use this section of this

chapter to foreshadow things to come

with Dy's plotline. But we see Quaith

appear and it comes at a very

interesting point as Dany is in many

ways losing her way. Quaith tries to

remind her to be a dragon and remember

who she is, but also to warn her of

people to come like Tyrion, like

Victarion, like all these other people,

like young Griff possibly. But she also

has once again to deal with the growing

issue of the reopening of the fighting

pits. Again, Hisdar has brought some of

these pit fighters. And what's very

interesting is the pit fighters want the

pits to be reopened. This is where they

get glory. They feel like they have some

worth in this world. and Danny doesn't

know what to say to them, right? It's

the same idea that we talked about in

Danny 1 where slavery is definitely a

bad thing, but what do you do when

there's certain people that are enslaved

that had better lives because they had

better masters when they were enslaved

than they do now? Now they're, you know,

looking for bread and not being able to

live a normal life. How do you deal with

that? And that's the issues that Danny

is trying to come to is like, how does

she deny the people of the fighting pits

if that's what they want? That is a very

compelling issue to play with with the

character of Dany.

But lastly, again, like we talked about,

whenever she's at her weakest, she goes

to her dragons. She goes to see them.

She has to think of what to do. They are

no longer children, but in her words,

they are monsters. She has to recount as

she recounts how she had to deal with

the farmer after in Dany one, she had to

attempt to buy his silence as Drogon has

had killed his child. Again, Danny is

locking up her dragons, right? She

believes they're too wild. She can't

control them anymore. She's losing her

way, right? She she very similar to me

with like a character like Rob, who as

the story goes on at times seems to

become very disconnected with his wolf,

Grey Wind. And that's something that's

very detrimental, right? Because he's

kind of going away from his stark

instincts and going away from who he is.

That's something that Dany struggles

with in this chapter and why I think

it's a really good chapter for Dany

because it plays on her identity, her

growth in this character, a lot of her

struggles and things she's dealing with.

It's all going to culminate into the end

of this book that this chapter is

pivotal to understanding that we get to

chapter 13, which is Bran 2. Now, Bran 2

is a really, really awesome chapter as

well, right? Like what I talk about with

Bran is he's really good at the

beginning of this book. We see again

picking up from where we left off. Bran

and our group has been traveling and

this is the most desperate they've

probably ever been. The cold is getting

to them. Many of them haven't eaten in

days and they're struggling to reach the

cave. You can see it. It's in sight.

They're finally there, but it's this

tough uphill battle. Um, and I mean that

literally. It's going uphill. It's hard

to walk. And even some of them can't

even walk anymore. Even Jojan himself

cannot walk any longer and is had having

to be helped by his sister. Even to the

point where they really are kind of left

behind as cold hands notes the others

are approaching and even the wolves are

close by. They must hurry. So him,

Hodor, and Bran hurry to the entrance.

But before they can get there, they are

st they are run upon by the others. It

seems a trap. The others come from the

ground pulling Hodor to the ground but

also having Bran fall from his basket.

It's a really intense scene in which our

characters seem like they're about to

die at many points. But it all leads to

once again the question of Bran waring

into Hodor and again we see that ethical

issue as Hodor doesn't like it but Bran

sees it as he must do it or they are

going to die. Bran using Hodor's body

allows them to survive again helping

Meera and the others. But at this point,

they are saved by the children of the

forest, something that's been

foreshadowed really since the first two

chapters of Bran's uh story in a Game of

Thrones. But either way, they are led

through this really weird area where it

seems like there's these deep white uh

roots that they think are snakes at the

beginning. They come across skulls of

things like ravens and such, but at this

point they find Blood Raven. And this is

a really interesting point because Bran

at this point asks if he will walk

again, but Blood Raven says no, he will

fly, which gets Bran to the point of

crying. He's gone on this insane

adventure, abandoning, you know, the

North, his family, and coming to this

point just so that he could not be a

[ __ ] anymore. which has haunted Bran

from the beginning of the story and is

one of the biggest reasons why he came

to seek out the three-eyed crow at this

point that's kind of been crushed. This

seems as a lot of manipulation by Blood

Raven to get Bran here so that who knows

what could happen if Bran is basically

becoming a vessel for the old gods. Who

knows? But it comes off as very strange

and a chapter that will start Bran's arc

as becoming probably the three-eyed crow

or at least some sort of vessel for

them. It puts a lot of tension and

unease and a huge twist for Bran's story

and is by far one of his best chapters

of his entire POV throughout all four

books that he is in. And again, it's a

definitely standout chapter of the

opening story. I will say I actually

made a little bit of an oopsie that I

don't think anyone pointed out in the

first video, so I'm glad people didn't

notice. Um, but I actually forgot to do

Theon one in the first part. I was going

through my notes and I was looking

through. I'm like, "Wait a minute. I

don't seem to have the number of

chapters that it says I'm supposed to

have." And so I went back and I actually

missed Theon one or week one. It's

supposed to be right in between uh the

Bran 2 chapter that we ended the last uh

part on and the Danny 2 chapter. So, I'm

going to start with that chapter even

though we are a little bit out of order

once again, but we'll get back on track

given that we're starting with Theon 1.

This is going to be a really interesting

chapter because you have to remember we

haven't seen Theon for two books, right?

The last we see of him is at the end of

a clash of kings. And so there's nothing

no information about Theon in book

three. There's no information about

Theon in book four. There's alluding to

that he's dead or he's just not anywhere

to be seen. And so when you come back to

this character, and again, we don't know

it's Theon, right? It's just Reek. Who

is this character of Reek? And maybe if

you were in a maybe if you were a very

detailed reader and you remembered, you

would have remembered that Reek was a

character that we learned a little bit

earlier on in book two andor book three.

So you might be thinking already, okay,

this is related to Ramsay. So okay,

well, who is this character then? And we

see that this character is is basically

a husk of himself. He's starving to

death. He's desperate looking for a rat.

He's living in complete fear. And we as

the character with big Walder and little

Walder find this character and realize

that this is Theon Greyjoy, a character

that has lost fingers. His hair is

turning gray. He looks visibly aged.

Even though it hasn't been that long, he

looks like an old man at this time as

he's malnourished.

It's a horrifying thought. And this

chapter really is not like a big plot

chapter in terms of what actually

happens, but it's a huge revelation

because us the audience, you know,

especially looking at the last book

where it kind of really develops into

that Greyjoy plotline, it kind of has in

the back of your mind what happened to

Theon. Well, this is what happened. And

so, as a reader, you're going to be very

conflicted in this book about how you

feel about Theon. Theon is a character

that I think a lot of people do not like

in the first two books. And when you

come back to him here, you're sitting

here going, I can't help but feel bad

for him. Nobody should have to endure

what Theon, you know, dealt with. Maybe

Theon deserves to be killed for his

actions, betraying the Starks, whatnot.

But at the same time, does he deserve to

be tortured and all of these things?

It's an interesting little way that

George plays with it. It's something I

think it's very interesting with Cersei

as well, where he takes a character we

really don't like and puts them through

the ringer to gain them sympathy and we

can understand that character. It makes

us question our feelings on a particular

plotline or character. And so Theon

during this time really what mainly the

focus is is he is going to have to do

this mission of helping freeing up the

north from the Ironborn at Moalin. We'll

get into that at the end of this video

as his next chapter is kind of towards

the end of this retrospective or this

second part of the retrospective, but I

did want to come back and make sure we

did do that because it's a vital part of

this chapter. It's it's vital a part of

this book and it's one of the best plot

lines and so I I apologize for missing

that in the last video if any of you

guys did wonder that. So that gets us

back on track. So we're back on with

chapter 15. And Tyrion 4 to me is of the

first four chapters we get of Tyrion,

it's the best one of the first four. And

something else I want to point out as

we're going into this chapter, you got

to remember we're only 15 chapters in

that would point to the idea that over a

quarter of the chapters so far have been

Tyrion chapters. Again, it's George

taking what people had on complaints

about Feast for Crows and giving them it

here, right? giving us the main

characters frontloading them quite a lot

in this book. But in this chapter, we

are introduced into some very

interesting characters, notably Septa

Lamore and Young Griffith. We still see

how Tyrion is a very pessimistic and

broken person, but he's being given more

of a role trying to actively figure out

what's going on here. And so, we have

some of that darker side of Tyrion, but

we also have a little bit of that clever

side of Tyrion, how he's going to be

able to manipulate things and how he's

going to be able to manipulate people.

He kind of realizes something is just

not right here. Young Griff is getting a

better education and attention than most

Lords in Westeros. Why is that? What is

so important about young Griff if he's

just some sort of cell swords kid? Just

doesn't seem to add up. And so Tyrion

goes through this chapter trying to

figure that out. And we see that his

mind starts to work when he plays a game

of Savas with Halden the Half Maester.

And he basically puts on the line that

if he wins, he wants a secret. Well, we

know Tyrion eventually wins. And we find

out and he finds out a secret that we

don't know yet. But there's a very

cryptic ending to foreshadow what Tyrion

has just found out. As at the end, they

see a great to a great turtle of the

Rine signifying the crowning of a king.

Now, us the audience don't know what

Tyrion's talking about here. At this

point in the story, it's very difficult

to conclude as us an audience member

that this is young griff or some sort of Targaryen.

Targaryen.

And so Tyrion realizes that and so he

won't get the payoff of that till the

next chapter. But this is a really good

chapter just to kind of give Tyrion

something to kind of work with, right? I

think one of the biggest complaints of

the first three chapters for Tyrion is

it's a lot of contemplation in those

first three chapters for Tyrion. And

yes, there are really really interesting

parts between Tyrion and Yrio,

but it's not like as focused, right?

There's not a lot of focus to Tyrion in

those first three chapters. This gives

him something interesting to develop,

right? Us, the audience, want to know

who are all these people on board. We

want to know why this cryptic ending and

that is going to help reshift Tyrion

into what is he going to do with this

character of Young Griff? Is he going to

help him? Is he how does he feel about

this? So, that kind of really helps the

character of Tyrion. I think to me it

doesn't feel the same as like Tyrion and

Brienne because Brienne goes on to have

one of the strongest arcs arcs of a

feast for crows whereas Tyrion he kind

of has like the first half of the book

being pretty middle of the pack to then

some really good chapters and then he

really falls off a cliff but it kind of

feels like that where there's finally

some like real focus for the character

of Tyrion in this chapter specifically.

So that gets us into chapter 16 Davos 2.

So Davos 2 is a weird one, right?

Because Davos has four chapters in this

book. And the first chapter is him and

Sister Tenn. It's really a nice catch up

of what goes on after Storm of Swords.

Nice reintroduction to the character

building the world out in terms of how

Ned once came here during the Robert's

Rebellion era. All that's really

awesome. And then you have chapter three

and four also being fantastic chapters

dealing with Wyon Manderly and the

Manderlys as a whole. This chapter is

kind of that middle ground. It's Davos

kind of contemplating his options. He's

arriving at White Harbor, but what does

he do, right? He's kind of arriving as

someone that nobody knows. He's not with

an envoy. He's not showing up as like

this rich hand of the king. He's kind of

showing up as a smuggler. But really,

what this chapter is trying to do is

build the atmosphere and analyze White Harbor. Kind of showing what's been

Harbor. Kind of showing what's been going on here because we haven't been

going on here because we haven't been here, right? The closest we kind of have

here, right? The closest we kind of have been here in reality on screen is in

been here in reality on screen is in book one, Catelyn comes with the

book one, Catelyn comes with the Manderlys to Mo Kalin, but we don't see

Manderlys to Mo Kalin, but we don't see White Harbor. We learn a little bit

White Harbor. We learn a little bit about the Manderlys from that chapter,

about the Manderlys from that chapter, but it's not really enough in my

but it's not really enough in my opinion. So, in this chapter, we kind of

opinion. So, in this chapter, we kind of figure out what's going on here. The

figure out what's going on here. The Freys have shown up to White Harbor. It

Freys have shown up to White Harbor. It seems like the two are forming an

seems like the two are forming an alliance, but there's also some tragic

alliance, but there's also some tragic things going on there. Like, where is

things going on there. Like, where is Wyman's son? Is he he's a cap? It's

Wyman's son? Is he he's a cap? It's presumed he's a captive of of the

presumed he's a captive of of the phrase. Well, okay, then how is Wyman

phrase. Well, okay, then how is Wyman going to support Stannis? And so, it's

going to support Stannis? And so, it's Davos kind of rationalizing through all

Davos kind of rationalizing through all of these things. And it's Davos having

of these things. And it's Davos having to use his smuggling skills, learning

to use his smuggling skills, learning about the situation as he goes to ins

about the situation as he goes to ins and things like that. But by the end of

and things like that. But by the end of the chapter, he realizes either way, he

the chapter, he realizes either way, he has to present himself to the gates and

has to present himself to the gates and needs to speak to Wyman. Again, it's a

needs to speak to Wyman. Again, it's a good chapter. It builds up the plotline

good chapter. It builds up the plotline going forward and it really helps those

going forward and it really helps those next two chapters that Davos is going to

next two chapters that Davos is going to have truly be great chapters,

have truly be great chapters, but the fallout is, you know, not a lot

but the fallout is, you know, not a lot really happens in this chapter. It's

really happens in this chapter. It's just kind of a, you know, a basic block

just kind of a, you know, a basic block chapter where you're building up things

chapter where you're building up things to come. There's not too much to really

to come. There's not too much to really talk about in this one. And so, it's a

talk about in this one. And so, it's a good one, but it's not great really in

good one, but it's not great really in any way. Number 17 is going to be Danny

any way. Number 17 is going to be Danny 3. Danny 3 is a chapter that I really

3. Danny 3 is a chapter that I really think is good as well. I think Danny is

think is good as well. I think Danny is a weird character in this book because

a weird character in this book because especially early on where I am in my

especially early on where I am in my reread. So about 400 pages in, she's

reread. So about 400 pages in, she's definitely like a middle of the pack.

definitely like a middle of the pack. Like she doesn't have any chapters so

Like she doesn't have any chapters so far that are like your best of the book

far that are like your best of the book or any chapters that I think are like

or any chapters that I think are like terrible or the worst of the book. She's

terrible or the worst of the book. She's just kind of there in the middle. She's

just kind of there in the middle. She's just there. And so in this chapter, it's

just there. And so in this chapter, it's really focusing on if Dany will go back

really focusing on if Dany will go back to Westeros, will she go to that place

to Westeros, will she go to that place that she believes is home as she

that she believes is home as she receives Zar Exaro or Zaro, I'm not sure

receives Zar Exaro or Zaro, I'm not sure how you say his name, from Quarth, one

how you say his name, from Quarth, one of the 13 from book two. So a nice call

of the 13 from book two. So a nice call back to her arc in book two. But he

back to her arc in book two. But he comes offering 13 ships to take her home

comes offering 13 ships to take her home to Westeros and leave Slavers Bay

to Westeros and leave Slavers Bay behind. And for Danny, to me, this

behind. And for Danny, to me, this doesn't really make sense because 13

doesn't really make sense because 13 chips is not enough for Danny to go

chips is not enough for Danny to go home. You got to remember she has a ton

home. You got to remember she has a ton of unsullied. Uh any there are people

of unsullied. Uh any there are people that are still with her like Kisar that

that are still with her like Kisar that she has very small at this point, but

she has very small at this point, but still any people that want to come with

still any people that want to come with her to Westeros, it's a struggle, right?

her to Westeros, it's a struggle, right? That's not enough ships. So, it kind of

That's not enough ships. So, it kind of is interesting

is interesting in terms of does Danny just take his

in terms of does Danny just take his ships? What does she do with them? And

ships? What does she do with them? And it's great for building the wars to come

it's great for building the wars to come as the Junish are already marching on a

as the Junish are already marching on a on Astapore and will continue towards

on Astapore and will continue towards her. And something this that I think is

her. And something this that I think is very interesting and I one of the

very interesting and I one of the reasons I don't really understand

reasons I don't really understand Quentyn's plotline in this book is

Quentyn's plotline in this book is information like that we get here in

information like that we get here in like a couple sentences or a paragraph.

like a couple sentences or a paragraph. We learn about what's also going on in

We learn about what's also going on in Essos or around Slavers Bay. And so we

Essos or around Slavers Bay. And so we don't need things like Quentin. I'm

don't need things like Quentin. I'm going to talk about that when we get to

going to talk about that when we get to Quentyn 2, but I think that's important

Quentyn 2, but I think that's important because this chapter really focuses the

because this chapter really focuses the landscape of what is going on in the

landscape of what is going on in the world at this time or at least in the in

world at this time or at least in the in Essos I would I'll say specifically. But

Essos I would I'll say specifically. But we see that Dany really has no leverage.

we see that Dany really has no leverage. She's struggling to get any of this

She's struggling to get any of this economy going as she wants to trade with

economy going as she wants to trade with Karth, but again she has nothing to

Karth, but again she has nothing to trade and Exaro tells her that. But all

trade and Exaro tells her that. But all in all, Dany must decide what to do.

in all, Dany must decide what to do. Stay and attempt to rule with a people

Stay and attempt to rule with a people that dislike her or leave for home where

that dislike her or leave for home where she is presumably wanted but leaving her

she is presumably wanted but leaving her people to be enslaved. It's a really

people to be enslaved. It's a really interesting predicament that Danny's in.

interesting predicament that Danny's in. It's the one she's going to battle

It's the one she's going to battle pretty much this entire first half of

pretty much this entire first half of the book because staying is something

the book because staying is something that she personally doesn't want. It

that she personally doesn't want. It doesn't have much of a benefit to her.

doesn't have much of a benefit to her. She's not well loved here. But on the

She's not well loved here. But on the flip side of it, if she leaves, she

flip side of it, if she leaves, she abandons her people. She abandons the

abandons her people. She abandons the people around her. So she's kind of

people around her. So she's kind of split in half. Whereas personally, what

split in half. Whereas personally, what was motivating her, she wants to go

was motivating her, she wants to go reclaim the Iron Throne. She wants to go

reclaim the Iron Throne. She wants to go back to where her presumive home is. But

back to where her presumive home is. But her moral conscience and what is holding

her moral conscience and what is holding her back is the people she's slaved, the

her back is the people she's slaved, the people that she believes she's a mother

people that she believes she's a mother to. And so this chapter is really good

to. And so this chapter is really good because it paints that right there front

because it paints that right there front and center. you know, we're not shying

and center. you know, we're not shying away from it. It gives Dany an ultimatum

away from it. It gives Dany an ultimatum as to what she's going to do. But I also

as to what she's going to do. But I also find something that is interesting that

find something that is interesting that George uses. George uses Viseris to

George uses. George uses Viseris to impact Daenerys's thoughts all

impact Daenerys's thoughts all throughout this chapter in terms of

throughout this chapter in terms of going home, in terms of what she should

going home, in terms of what she should be doing that is to her own personal

be doing that is to her own personal benefit, how she thinks about him and

benefit, how she thinks about him and how she acts. All is very present in the

how she acts. All is very present in the Shadow. And I like that George does that

Shadow. And I like that George does that call back because Viseris was such an

call back because Viseris was such an integral part of her story and why she

integral part of her story and why she became a Kesi, why she became the mother

became a Kesi, why she became the mother of dragons. All of that is vital to

of dragons. All of that is vital to understanding. But in the end, she

understanding. But in the end, she decides to stay to the anger of of Aaro

decides to stay to the anger of of Aaro who leaves a bloody glove declaring war

who leaves a bloody glove declaring war again. Dany has once again made more

again. Dany has once again made more enemies. She now has enemies on all

enemies. She now has enemies on all sides of her. things that will collapse

sides of her. things that will collapse in on itself as the book continues to go

in on itself as the book continues to go on and is something that still has yet

on and is something that still has yet to be resolved in Winds of Winter.

to be resolved in Winds of Winter. Again, I noted that this chapter was not

Again, I noted that this chapter was not as good as I think her second chapter,

as good as I think her second chapter, but was still very enjoyable. Had its

but was still very enjoyable. Had its own kind of contained story, and I

own kind of contained story, and I really did enjoy it. And that gets us

really did enjoy it. And that gets us into chapter 18, which will be John 4.

into chapter 18, which will be John 4. Again, this is another good chapter for

Again, this is another good chapter for John as it's his last with Stannis. It's

John as it's his last with Stannis. It's kind of the breaking of the early Jon

kind of the breaking of the early Jon chapters where Jon has been a character

chapters where Jon has been a character that's kind of been divided and things

that's kind of been divided and things taking up the time and his POVs, you

taking up the time and his POVs, you know, with the Stannis stuff, with kind

know, with the Stannis stuff, with kind of other things going on with the Wild

of other things going on with the Wild Link plot, with, you know, the Sam Gilly

Link plot, with, you know, the Sam Gilly Aean plot of sending them uh south.

Aean plot of sending them uh south. There's been a lot of things that have

There's been a lot of things that have kind of struggled to focus Jon on like

kind of struggled to focus Jon on like one thing at this time. And so here he's

one thing at this time. And so here he's kind of trying to do a lot here because

kind of trying to do a lot here because the chapter opens with the issues of

the chapter opens with the issues of food, right? John goes down to see their

food, right? John goes down to see their stores, see what their reserves are

stores, see what their reserves are looking like for winter, and it's not

looking like for winter, and it's not good, right? Bow and Marsh even states

good, right? Bow and Marsh even states this. We don't have enough food for all

this. We don't have enough food for all of Stannis's men, all of these

of Stannis's men, all of these wildlings. We just don't have the food.

wildlings. We just don't have the food. And Jon is basically forced to make a

And Jon is basically forced to make a choice to start rationing the food.

choice to start rationing the food. another thing that's going to lead to

another thing that's going to lead to why people don't respect him and or or

why people don't respect him and or or why people dislike him and are willing

why people dislike him and are willing to kill him. But on the other side of

to kill him. But on the other side of that, you also have Jon who's not

that, you also have Jon who's not listening to Marsh. They don't have

listening to Marsh. They don't have enough food with the wildlings and

enough food with the wildlings and Stannis here. And the problem Jon faces

Stannis here. And the problem Jon faces throughout all of this book is he's not

throughout all of this book is he's not willing to tell the people why they are

willing to tell the people why they are doing things, right? He just does them

doing things, right? He just does them and expects people to just go along with

and expects people to just go along with it. One of the things if you want to

it. One of the things if you want to look at if Jon is a Targaryen that one

look at if Jon is a Targaryen that one of his ancestors did really well is

of his ancestors did really well is Jiharis would be someone that would sit

Jiharis would be someone that would sit down with people, hear their grievances

down with people, hear their grievances and explain why he thought maybe that

and explain why he thought maybe that was not the right course of action. John

was not the right course of action. John consistently in this book does not do

consistently in this book does not do that. And this chapter puts it on full

that. And this chapter puts it on full display. He doesn't listen to Bow and

display. He doesn't listen to Bow and Marsh. And when he does, he kind of just

Marsh. And when he does, he kind of just says a bland answer and then just

says a bland answer and then just leaves. Like he says, "Yeah, we'll

leaves. Like he says, "Yeah, we'll ration the food." But he doesn't give a

ration the food." But he doesn't give a how do we fix the solution? Rationing

how do we fix the solution? Rationing the food will help the situation, but

the food will help the situation, but it's not a solve. We're still going to

it's not a solve. We're still going to have the same end result. We don't have

have the same end result. We don't have enough food. And whether John doesn't

enough food. And whether John doesn't have a solution to that yet at all

have a solution to that yet at all already, fine. But you still have to

already, fine. But you still have to explain what's going on.

explain what's going on. That's where people will lose trust in

That's where people will lose trust in you. And that's exactly what we're going

you. And that's exactly what we're going to see in this book. But the second part

to see in this book. But the second part of this chapter is almost completely on

of this chapter is almost completely on Stannis. It's about what Stannis is

Stannis. It's about what Stannis is going to be doing in the north. Stannis

going to be doing in the north. Stannis is someone that realizes he cannot stay

is someone that realizes he cannot stay at the wall forever. The longer he does,

at the wall forever. The longer he does, the more he'll be forgotten about and

the more he'll be forgotten about and all of that. And so he decides, okay,

all of that. And so he decides, okay, maybe I should march to the dread for

maybe I should march to the dread for it. A lot of people have been suggesting

it. A lot of people have been suggesting that. Arnoff Kstark being one of those.

that. Arnoff Kstark being one of those. Again, we know this is actually a trap,

Again, we know this is actually a trap, but us as the readers don't know that at

but us as the readers don't know that at this point, but that is what is going

this point, but that is what is going on. And we again see that a lot of our

on. And we again see that a lot of our counselors agree to this, right? Many of

counselors agree to this, right? Many of them, all of them are not from the

them, all of them are not from the north. They don't really know what it

north. They don't really know what it the north is like and it's a dumb plan.

the north is like and it's a dumb plan. Think about how long the march is to the

Think about how long the march is to the dread for. They're at the very top of

dread for. They're at the very top of the north at the wall. It would take a

the north at the wall. It would take a long time to get there. They'd be

long time to get there. They'd be extremely lucky if they went if they

extremely lucky if they went if they even got there without being noticed.

even got there without being noticed. And to dread the dread for is a very

And to dread the dread for is a very strong castle. How were they supposing

strong castle. How were they supposing they were going to get in even if it is

they were going to get in even if it is lightly garrisoned? But also moving that

lightly garrisoned? But also moving that far south puts you right in the

far south puts you right in the crossfires of not only Ramsay's army at

crossfires of not only Ramsay's army at the time that's this far down south and

the time that's this far down south and also Roose's army coming up from Moalin.

also Roose's army coming up from Moalin. And you could be thinking okay well they

And you could be thinking okay well they hope the Ironborn are going to be able

hope the Ironborn are going to be able to hold Moalin. But Stannis is smart

to hold Moalin. But Stannis is smart enough to realize Moin's going to be

enough to realize Moin's going to be attacked from the north and the south.

attacked from the north and the south. It's going to fall very quickly. And so

It's going to fall very quickly. And so in that regard this is a terrible plan.

in that regard this is a terrible plan. And so Jon disagrees being the only one

And so Jon disagrees being the only one really able to step up and tell him

really able to step up and tell him this. It won't work. And instead he

this. It won't work. And instead he makes a trade. He wants to keep the

makes a trade. He wants to keep the wildlings and tell Stannis of different

wildlings and tell Stannis of different men that he can get in the mountain

men that he can get in the mountain clans. And so more or less we have a

clans. And so more or less we have a whole new plot. Stannis is going to head

whole new plot. Stannis is going to head to Deepwood Mott after getting the

to Deepwood Mott after getting the Mountain Clans. And that is where

Mountain Clans. And that is where Stannis will go. And this is the end of

Stannis will go. And this is the end of the Stannis and Jon plot. The two will

the Stannis and Jon plot. The two will not see each other in this book. They

not see each other in this book. They may see each other in the next book, but

may see each other in the next book, but this is kind of the end of the Stannis

this is kind of the end of the Stannis plot for Jon. Now, this kind of has an

plot for Jon. Now, this kind of has an interesting question, and I want to talk

interesting question, and I want to talk about this more when we get to it, but

about this more when we get to it, but you as a reader then might be thinking,

you as a reader then might be thinking, okay, where are we then going to get our

okay, where are we then going to get our Stannis POV? Davos is in White Harbor.

Stannis POV? Davos is in White Harbor. Mel is going to be staying here, and Mel

Mel is going to be staying here, and Mel wasn't even a POV at this time anyway.

wasn't even a POV at this time anyway. There's no one that's a POV that's going

There's no one that's a POV that's going to be with Stannis. So, are we going to

to be with Stannis. So, are we going to hear about these events? Are we going to

hear about these events? Are we going to see them through Theon's eyes, but it's

see them through Theon's eyes, but it's going to be from the Ramsay camp? We're

going to be from the Ramsay camp? We're going to definitely see that, but what

going to definitely see that, but what is going to happen there? And so, you

is going to happen there? And so, you also, I think, as a reader, you don't

also, I think, as a reader, you don't really realize, wait, who could be at

really realize, wait, who could be at Deepwood M? Asha. And so, when you get

Deepwood M? Asha. And so, when you get to that chapter, it all feels like it

to that chapter, it all feels like it flows perfectly well. And some people

flows perfectly well. And some people might be saying, oh, well, that's

might be saying, oh, well, that's convenient. You lose one POV and you

convenient. You lose one POV and you pick up another one for SAS's camp. But

pick up another one for SAS's camp. But I'm going to explain when we get there

I'm going to explain when we get there why it's not a plot convenience and it

why it's not a plot convenience and it makes perfect sense. Whereas something

makes perfect sense. Whereas something else we're going to talk about with

else we're going to talk about with Quentin is a plot convenience and I have

Quentin is a plot convenience and I have a lot of problems with that plotline.

a lot of problems with that plotline. But I wanted to bring that up here

But I wanted to bring that up here because it is important to understand.

because it is important to understand. But again, I think of another really

But again, I think of another really good chapter for Jon. I think Jon so far

good chapter for Jon. I think Jon so far is definitely been one of the stronger

is definitely been one of the stronger POVs of the book. And that'll get us

POVs of the book. And that'll get us back to Tyrion. And this is what I'm

back to Tyrion. And this is what I'm talking about, right? Like Tyrion is a

talking about, right? Like Tyrion is a dominant POV this early in the story. We

dominant POV this early in the story. We only talk about three POVs after

only talk about three POVs after Tyrion's and we're already back to him

Tyrion's and we're already back to him with Tyrion five. But Tyrion 5 is

with Tyrion five. But Tyrion 5 is definitely one of my favorite chapters,

definitely one of my favorite chapters, especially of the early part of this

especially of the early part of this book as again it's Tyrion just in his

book as again it's Tyrion just in his element, right? This is one of my

element, right? This is one of my favorite chapters from Tyrion this early

favorite chapters from Tyrion this early in the book as they're continuing their

in the book as they're continuing their journey getting past the sorrows. But

journey getting past the sorrows. But more importantly, we get the reveal of

more importantly, we get the reveal of who is in the party. Well, some of them

who is in the party. Well, some of them anyway. that young Griff is Aegon

anyway. that young Griff is Aegon Targaryen, the child of Rhaegar and

Targaryen, the child of Rhaegar and Elia, who was supposedly killed at the

Elia, who was supposedly killed at the end of Raj's rebellion. Now, we still

end of Raj's rebellion. Now, we still don't know if this is actually true, but

don't know if this is actually true, but either way, this is a massive shakeup to

either way, this is a massive shakeup to the entire story. And and that's

the entire story. And and that's regardless of if he even is a Targaryen.

regardless of if he even is a Targaryen. Him being perceived as a Targaryen is

Him being perceived as a Targaryen is huge. if he's a Blackfire,

huge. if he's a Blackfire, that has huge implications on the story.

that has huge implications on the story. And so this chapter takes this Tyrion

And so this chapter takes this Tyrion storyline that's kind of been somewhat

storyline that's kind of been somewhat muddied and really struggling to get

muddied and really struggling to get going and it just has an explosion and

going and it just has an explosion and you're sitting here going, "Whoa." But

you're sitting here going, "Whoa." But then not only that, but we also get this

then not only that, but we also get this is John Conington, one of the hands of

is John Conington, one of the hands of the king that had been exiled to Essos

the king that had been exiled to Essos after his loss at the Battle of the

after his loss at the Battle of the Bells. a lot of interesting characters

Bells. a lot of interesting characters are just revealed at this part of the

are just revealed at this part of the book for Tyrion 5. And when you look

book for Tyrion 5. And when you look back on it and you realize what is to

back on it and you realize what is to come next, you understand why this had

come next, you understand why this had to happen so quickly, why we got so many

to happen so quickly, why we got so many Tyrion chapters. And I think you can

Tyrion chapters. And I think you can make the argument that maybe Tyrion 1

make the argument that maybe Tyrion 1 and Tyrion 2 could have been combined

and Tyrion 2 could have been combined into one chapter. Maybe would have

into one chapter. Maybe would have helped the flow of this book not having

helped the flow of this book not having five Tyrion chapters within the first

five Tyrion chapters within the first 19. But you understand going forward why

19. But you understand going forward why there was so many because we need that

there was so many because we need that John Con plot to get rolling. We talk

John Con plot to get rolling. We talk about Winds of Winter how there's just

about Winds of Winter how there's just so many different plots and so much

so many different plots and so much stuff that George needs to get through.

stuff that George needs to get through. Well, think about if this plot had taken

Well, think about if this plot had taken even longer right now. I would also

even longer right now. I would also argue that the way you could have fixed

argue that the way you could have fixed this is you would have given Tyrion less

this is you would have given Tyrion less chapters going forward and given more to

chapters going forward and given more to John Con. But you know that we'll get to

John Con. But you know that we'll get to that as we go later on with Tyrion's

that as we go later on with Tyrion's arc. But right after we get this huge

arc. But right after we get this huge reveal, Tyrion also reveals himself to

reveal, Tyrion also reveals himself to the party. So, no longer is Tyrion

the party. So, no longer is Tyrion really playing the role of being this

really playing the role of being this bastard type. He is now revealed that he

bastard type. He is now revealed that he is Tyrion Lannister. At this though,

is Tyrion Lannister. At this though, they are attacked by stone men. And this

they are attacked by stone men. And this scene just plays out very horrifyingly.

scene just plays out very horrifyingly. Like these stone men could get you

Like these stone men could get you infected just by touching your skin. us,

infected just by touching your skin. us, the audience, have no idea what is going

the audience, have no idea what is going to happen here. Could this get Young

to happen here. Could this get Young Griff killed or John Conington killed or

Griff killed or John Conington killed or any of our companions killed

any of our companions killed and we end up seeing Tyrion actually

and we end up seeing Tyrion actually pushing young Griff out of the way so

pushing young Griff out of the way so that he can get this stone man off of

that he can get this stone man off of him. It shows that Tyrion does have some

him. It shows that Tyrion does have some semblance of a good morality. Now, was

semblance of a good morality. Now, was this done because Tyrion was trying to

this done because Tyrion was trying to get in good with Young Riff? Possibly.

get in good with Young Riff? Possibly. But I would go away from that idea given

But I would go away from that idea given the fact that Tyrion kind of acts just

the fact that Tyrion kind of acts just out of instinct. He does the same thing

out of instinct. He does the same thing with Catelyn Stark. It seems almost the

with Catelyn Stark. It seems almost the same, right? Tyrion has no real reason

same, right? Tyrion has no real reason to help, either Young Griff or Catelyn,

to help, either Young Griff or Catelyn, but he does so. He acts. And the chapter

but he does so. He acts. And the chapter ends with Tyrion falling and drowning.

ends with Tyrion falling and drowning. And the chapter ends with a really

And the chapter ends with a really interesting moment because it's like

interesting moment because it's like it's kind of alluding that Tyrion is

it's kind of alluding that Tyrion is going to die, but I think us, the

going to die, but I think us, the audience, we know he's not going to die.

audience, we know he's not going to die. Tyrion is not going to die by drowning

Tyrion is not going to die by drowning in a river. It's just not going to

in a river. It's just not going to happen. But the implications here are

happen. But the implications here are much more dire. Tyrion's being dragged

much more dire. Tyrion's being dragged down. Is Tyrion going to get infected

down. Is Tyrion going to get infected with Grayscale?

with Grayscale? Could it happen? What could happen

Could it happen? What could happen because of this dire moment? Tyrion

because of this dire moment? Tyrion going completely into this river filled

going completely into this river filled with the stone men possibly infected and

with the stone men possibly infected and or cursed. There's a lot there.

or cursed. There's a lot there. And so the shatter does a great job in

And so the shatter does a great job in terms of building the tension in terms

terms of building the tension in terms of having a huge plot twist that changes

of having a huge plot twist that changes up the entire story and to me is by far

up the entire story and to me is by far Tyrion's best chapter. I think probably

Tyrion's best chapter. I think probably in this book. I when I wrote it down, I

in this book. I when I wrote it down, I said best so far of my notes and of

said best so far of my notes and of these first two parts, but honestly

these first two parts, but honestly reflecting on Tyrion in this book, this

reflecting on Tyrion in this book, this is probably his best chapter within the

is probably his best chapter within the entire book. And that will get us into

entire book. And that will get us into Davos 3. Now, Davos 3, what can I say

Davos 3. Now, Davos 3, what can I say about this? It's not Davos's best

about this? It's not Davos's best chapter of the book, but it's a good one

chapter of the book, but it's a good one because this chapter, I think, of a lot

because this chapter, I think, of a lot of the chapters that are in this book,

of the chapters that are in this book, it does the best to immerse you. It

it does the best to immerse you. It almost puts you in the story, right?

almost puts you in the story, right? Because we as the audience like the

Because we as the audience like the Starks. We know what happened at the Red

Starks. We know what happened at the Red Wedding. We are kind of like the

Wedding. We are kind of like the overlooker of the world. We know all the

overlooker of the world. We know all the information.

information. But when you go into this chapter and

But when you go into this chapter and you see Davos has become more or less a

you see Davos has become more or less a prisoner. It's a luxury prisoner. Like

prisoner. It's a luxury prisoner. Like he's getting a nice cell. It's very

he's getting a nice cell. It's very similar like Sansa in book one after

similar like Sansa in book one after Ned's coup. Like she has her own

Ned's coup. Like she has her own apartments and all that, but she's not

apartments and all that, but she's not really able to go anywhere, right?

really able to go anywhere, right? That's kind of where Davos is right now.

That's kind of where Davos is right now. And so he's awaiting audience with the

And so he's awaiting audience with the Manderlys. And we see him interact with

Manderlys. And we see him interact with Wyman's court and specifically the

Wyman's court and specifically the phrase. And what is great here is

phrase. And what is great here is George makes us feel like we are in this

George makes us feel like we are in this meeting. We the audience are playing the

meeting. We the audience are playing the role of Wila Manderly because Wila

role of Wila Manderly because Wila Manderly is the one that's like no we

Manderly is the one that's like no we shouldn't be, you know, going with these

shouldn't be, you know, going with these phrase. This is wrong. The phrase suck.

phrase. This is wrong. The phrase suck. They killed Rob our king. We should help

They killed Rob our king. We should help Stannis. That's us as the audience,

Stannis. That's us as the audience, right? We know that. Like that's what

right? We know that. Like that's what they should be doing. And we're sitting

they should be doing. And we're sitting here going, why don't they do this? Why

here going, why don't they do this? Why is why mannerly believing the phrase?

is why mannerly believing the phrase? But George has already given us all

But George has already given us all those answers. He gave those answers to

those answers. He gave those answers to us in the last chapter, which is why

us in the last chapter, which is why this chapter flows so well. We already

this chapter flows so well. We already know all the information. We know that

know all the information. We know that Davos is doomed. There's still that hope

Davos is doomed. There's still that hope in us. There's still that Wa Manderly,

in us. There's still that Wa Manderly, that feeling of just we can't do

that feeling of just we can't do anything. The story is going to continue

anything. The story is going to continue with or without us. And that's what the

with or without us. And that's what the beauty of this chapter. It puts us in

beauty of this chapter. It puts us in the minds of these characters. But we

the minds of these characters. But we see how the phrase manipulate this game.

see how the phrase manipulate this game. They say the Starks win the wrong and

They say the Starks win the wrong and Wyman seems to agree with their

Wyman seems to agree with their reasoning as Rob broke this vow to marry

reasoning as Rob broke this vow to marry a Frey girl. He also turns into this

a Frey girl. He also turns into this wolf and starts attacking them during

wolf and starts attacking them during the wedding and so do the Stark men,

the wedding and so do the Stark men, painting the Starks as the bad guys. the

painting the Starks as the bad guys. the arrogance of the phrase in this moment.

arrogance of the phrase in this moment. But in reality, when you think about it,

But in reality, when you think about it, there was I mean, nobody was there, so

there was I mean, nobody was there, so nobody exactly knows what happens.

nobody exactly knows what happens. Again, the phrase can kind of spread

Again, the phrase can kind of spread this lie, but we all know this is

this lie, but we all know this is [ __ ] at the same time, but it all

[ __ ] at the same time, but it all sets up perfectly to the reveal we're

sets up perfectly to the reveal we're going to get in the next chapter because

going to get in the next chapter because all this makes sense. Wyman is stuck in

all this makes sense. Wyman is stuck in this situation where his son is a

this situation where his son is a hostage. The phrase have men here in

hostage. The phrase have men here in White Harbor to make sure that he is

White Harbor to make sure that he is loyal. He has to play this game, right?

loyal. He has to play this game, right? He can't straight out say that, "Oh

He can't straight out say that, "Oh yeah, I'm going to back Davos." The

yeah, I'm going to back Davos." The phrase suck. He has to play this game.

phrase suck. He has to play this game. And so we come to the end of this

And so we come to the end of this chapter and Davos loses the argument and

chapter and Davos loses the argument and is sentenced to death, which again lines

is sentenced to death, which again lines up exactly with what we know happens in

up exactly with what we know happens in Feast for Crows. In Feast for Crows, in

Feast for Crows. In Feast for Crows, in one of Cersei's middle chapters, we

one of Cersei's middle chapters, we learn that yes, Davos is killed at White

learn that yes, Davos is killed at White Harbor. And that's what prompts the

Harbor. And that's what prompts the phrase to release Wyman's son.

phrase to release Wyman's son. Now, with this being said, though, we're

Now, with this being said, though, we're left with the conclusion of what is to

left with the conclusion of what is to happen with Davos. We don't see him die

happen with Davos. We don't see him die on screen in this chapter. He's just

on screen in this chapter. He's just being arrested. But it seems pretty

being arrested. But it seems pretty bleak, right? Like, what can Manley

bleak, right? Like, what can Manley really do? He seems publicly to be

really do? He seems publicly to be backing the phrase. He has a knife to

backing the phrase. He has a knife to his back. There's not a lot he can

his back. There's not a lot he can really do. And it continues to make

really do. And it continues to make Davos one of my favorite POVs of this

Davos one of my favorite POVs of this book. And that concludes it. Again, that

book. And that concludes it. Again, that is one of the best chapters of this

is one of the best chapters of this early part of the book. I think I had it

early part of the book. I think I had it in my top five if I'm not mistaken. As

in my top five if I'm not mistaken. As of right now, it's not in my top five,

of right now, it's not in my top five, but it's number six, but it is one of

but it's number six, but it is one of the best of this book by far. We talked

the best of this book by far. We talked about firstly Theon one or week one in

about firstly Theon one or week one in this retrospective, but now we're with

this retrospective, but now we're with Theon 2. And again, this is a really

Theon 2. And again, this is a really good chapter for Theon. It kind of

good chapter for Theon. It kind of builds, it takes everything that was

builds, it takes everything that was great about the first chapter and just

great about the first chapter and just heightens it. It makes it more plot

heightens it. It makes it more plot relevant. It gives us more time to

relevant. It gives us more time to expand Theon's logic and how he is as a

expand Theon's logic and how he is as a person. How is his mental health at this

person. How is his mental health at this time? Very awful at this time. We see

time? Very awful at this time. We see that Theon is being cleaned up for his

that Theon is being cleaned up for his role to play his past self with the goal

role to play his past self with the goal of taking Mo Kalin still occupy the

of taking Mo Kalin still occupy the Ironborn. Now, what does this setup

Ironborn. Now, what does this setup already do? It puts us in the mind of

already do? It puts us in the mind of Reek trying to play his former self. So,

Reek trying to play his former self. So, it's again him having that split

it's again him having that split personality of of his younger self of

personality of of his younger self of reflecting on his actions, things that

reflecting on his actions, things that he did, the mistakes he may have made or

he did, the mistakes he may have made or the people that he used to care about.

the people that he used to care about. But it also takes that part of it. It

But it also takes that part of it. It takes the Stark side of him and it also

takes the Stark side of him and it also puts that in direct conflict with his

puts that in direct conflict with his Ironborn side as well as he also is

Ironborn side as well as he also is having to play the role of being the

having to play the role of being the prince of the Ironborn. taking control

prince of the Ironborn. taking control of them and making them surrender,

of them and making them surrender, offering them generous terms. It's a

offering them generous terms. It's a really great chapter because it takes

really great chapter because it takes all these things that are pivotal to

all these things that are pivotal to this character this moment and puts it

this character this moment and puts it right there. But the beauty comes from,

right there. But the beauty comes from, I think, the psychological torture that

I think, the psychological torture that Theon has gone through. Even in this

Theon has gone through. Even in this situation where Theon could try and run,

situation where Theon could try and run, he could get himself killed, let the

he could get himself killed, let the Ironborn kill him, do any of these

Ironborn kill him, do any of these things to escape what he's going

things to escape what he's going through. He's still scared. He is

through. He's still scared. He is someone that I think most people are

someone that I think most people are scared of what comes after death right

scared of what comes after death right is there some sort of afterlife is there

is there some sort of afterlife is there nothing that's what theon could be

nothing that's what theon could be feeling that you know even though all

feeling that you know even though all these torture all this torture is

these torture all this torture is horrible you know that is also another

horrible you know that is also another thing is the fear of the unknown and

thing is the fear of the unknown and theon subconsciously wants to die but at

theon subconsciously wants to die but at the same time he doesn't do it and so

the same time he doesn't do it and so you have a lot of things that are very

you have a lot of things that are very compelling for the character of Theon

compelling for the character of Theon that that kind of gets Theon to

that that kind of gets Theon to remembering ing, you know, the last time

remembering ing, you know, the last time coming here with Rob and the choices

coming here with Rob and the choices that he made. Again, he recounts

that he made. Again, he recounts basically the Catelyn chapter of coming

basically the Catelyn chapter of coming to Mo Kalin of where all they were

to Mo Kalin of where all they were situated in these towers and all the

situated in these towers and all the 20,000 men going south. But at the same

20,000 men going south. But at the same time, we see a bit of Theon come back as

time, we see a bit of Theon come back as he takes control and Mo Kalin and

he takes control and Mo Kalin and convinces them to leave the castle.

convinces them to leave the castle. Unfortunately for those men, they are

Unfortunately for those men, they are killed, but Theon gets a reward. And

killed, but Theon gets a reward. And this again shows the power dynamic of

this again shows the power dynamic of how low Theon is. Even when faced with

how low Theon is. Even when faced with as being able to get a reward, all Theon

as being able to get a reward, all Theon asks for is wine.

asks for is wine. And what does Theon get promoted to? Not

And what does Theon get promoted to? Not to a normal human, but to a dog. We see

to a normal human, but to a dog. We see the mental games Ramsay is playing,

the mental games Ramsay is playing, keeping Theon as this pet that is

keeping Theon as this pet that is completely damaged. But we end the

completely damaged. But we end the chapter meeting Roose Bolton and the

chapter meeting Roose Bolton and the phrase. But he also realizes that the

phrase. But he also realizes that the Arya that they have brought with them is

Arya that they have brought with them is not actually Arya, which us the audience

not actually Arya, which us the audience already knew. This isn't really like

already knew. This isn't really like this big twist for of us, the reader.

this big twist for of us, the reader. But it's a really cool twist for Theon

But it's a really cool twist for Theon because we're going to put again

because we're going to put again something that connects Theon to his

something that connects Theon to his past. We're going to connect him with

past. We're going to connect him with Jane Pool, someone that he would have

Jane Pool, someone that he would have known. And so that's interesting. But it

known. And so that's interesting. But it also unravels that well, we already knew

also unravels that well, we already knew that the Boltons were planning to marry

that the Boltons were planning to marry a fake Arya. Mechanism 2, chapter 22,

a fake Arya. Mechanism 2, chapter 22, John 5. And chapter 5, just like I

John 5. And chapter 5, just like I talked about chapter 4, it's kind of the

talked about chapter 4, it's kind of the end of John's early book arc. It's a

end of John's early book arc. It's a chapter mainly used to refocus Jon's

chapter mainly used to refocus Jon's plot. At this time, we're going to see

plot. At this time, we're going to see Jon as he try as he tries to recruit

Jon as he try as he tries to recruit wildlings into the watch. Um, not

wildlings into the watch. Um, not exactly into the watch. It's more like

exactly into the watch. It's more like defending the wall. they don't have to

defending the wall. they don't have to say the vows or wear a black cloak or

say the vows or wear a black cloak or any of those things, but he's trying to

any of those things, but he's trying to get the wildlings to help him and help

get the wildlings to help him and help the watch, but he's also trying to give

the watch, but he's also trying to give them food and all these things. So, we

them food and all these things. So, we see Jon traveling to Molestown. And

see Jon traveling to Molestown. And again, what is the focus of Jon's story

again, what is the focus of Jon's story going to be going forward? It's going to

going to be going forward? It's going to be integrating the wildlings into the

be integrating the wildlings into the watch. But what he does is he doesn't do

watch. But what he does is he doesn't do anything. He doesn't explain to the

anything. He doesn't explain to the people why this is an is a necessity.

people why this is an is a necessity. Us, the viewers are inside John's head.

Us, the viewers are inside John's head. We know why this is a necessity and

We know why this is a necessity and needs to happen, but others do not. And

needs to happen, but others do not. And again, this is a not a very long chapter

again, this is a not a very long chapter for John. It doesn't have a lot in here

for John. It doesn't have a lot in here that really needs to be discussed, but I

that really needs to be discussed, but I find the chapter good for exploring why

find the chapter good for exploring why Jon is killed. Again, it's not really

Jon is killed. Again, it's not really explaining or expanding on his reasoning

explaining or expanding on his reasoning to Marsh or the Watch into why they are

to Marsh or the Watch into why they are allowing the wildlings to help. Think

allowing the wildlings to help. Think about what Jon is asking. John is asking

about what Jon is asking. John is asking for not only wildlings to be part of the

for not only wildlings to be part of the wall, but women.

wall, but women. Well, there's a big reason as to why the

Well, there's a big reason as to why the watch doesn't allow women and why that

watch doesn't allow women and why that you're not allowed to take a wive or

you're not allowed to take a wive or anything like that because it's going to

anything like that because it's going to shift your loyalties. And so, it puts

shift your loyalties. And so, it puts that to the test. Should there be these

that to the test. Should there be these wildling women on the wall trying to

wildling women on the wall trying to defend it? Should there be wildlings and

defend it? Should there be wildlings and knights watchmen together who who knows?

knights watchmen together who who knows? they can't really trust each other. And

they can't really trust each other. And an army that can't trust one another

an army that can't trust one another isn't really an army. So, you're putting

isn't really an army. So, you're putting two groups of people together and you're

two groups of people together and you're just mashing them together. You're not

just mashing them together. You're not trying to let each side understand why

trying to let each side understand why this is necessary. You're just kind of

this is necessary. You're just kind of mashing two brick walls together and

mashing two brick walls together and hoping they mix. It's just not the best

hoping they mix. It's just not the best way of going about things. But again,

way of going about things. But again, really what I think George wanted to do

really what I think George wanted to do with this chapter is again integrating

with this chapter is again integrating starting that process of integrating the

starting that process of integrating the Wildlings into the wall, but also

Wildlings into the wall, but also showing Jon's lack of communication to

showing Jon's lack of communication to be crucial to his arc. Now, this gets us

be crucial to his arc. Now, this gets us to a very conflicting chapter for me.

to a very conflicting chapter for me. Uh, Tyrion 6. It's a really, really

Uh, Tyrion 6. It's a really, really weird one because the first half I love.

weird one because the first half I love. I love the first half of Furion waking

I love the first half of Furion waking up from being saved by Griff and all

up from being saved by Griff and all that comes with that, but I really enjoy

that comes with that, but I really enjoy what we get between young Griff and

what we get between young Griff and Tyrion because it's Tyrion being at his

Tyrion because it's Tyrion being at his best, you know, manipulating people,

best, you know, manipulating people, talking to people, and getting them to

talking to people, and getting them to do what he wants them to do. And so, we

do what he wants them to do. And so, we see young Griff and Tyrion playing Sas.

see young Griff and Tyrion playing Sas. And Tyrion gives Young Griff some very

And Tyrion gives Young Griff some very interesting lessons and things that are

interesting lessons and things that are going to be crucial going forward with

going to be crucial going forward with the story. He tells young Griff that he

the story. He tells young Griff that he should go to Westeros again. Going to

should go to Westeros again. Going to Westeros is very beneficial. The realm

Westeros is very beneficial. The realm is not united at the time. Cersei is

is not united at the time. Cersei is basically in control. We see how that

basically in control. We see how that worked out in Feast for Crow. So we know

worked out in Feast for Crow. So we know Tyrion is right. The North is an open

Tyrion is right. The North is an open rebellion. The Driberlands are all

rebellion. The Driberlands are all screwed up at this time. The Westerlands

screwed up at this time. The Westerlands power has been completely weakened

power has been completely weakened during this time period. The Dornish are

during this time period. The Dornish are ripe for rebellion. We know that to also

ripe for rebellion. We know that to also be true. So Tyrion says, "Take this

be true. So Tyrion says, "Take this Golden Company army and go Westeros."

Golden Company army and go Westeros." And we also see another rationale that

And we also see another rationale that Tyrion uses to justify this. If he goes

Tyrion uses to justify this. If he goes to Dany, he's going to look like a

to Dany, he's going to look like a beggar. He's going to be looking like

beggar. He's going to be looking like someone that is asking for her hand.

someone that is asking for her hand. They're not going to meet on equal

They're not going to meet on equal terms. It's going to be kind of like the

terms. It's going to be kind of like the way Quentyn goes about asking for Dany.

way Quentyn goes about asking for Dany. And so we see a lot of this play out.

And so we see a lot of this play out. But what we end up seeing is that Tyrion

But what we end up seeing is that Tyrion during the Savas game was also lying to

during the Savas game was also lying to him, trying to get young Griff to do

him, trying to get young Griff to do things like keeping his dragon away from

things like keeping his dragon away from his king so that he can beat him in this

his king so that he can beat him in this game. That's what ends up happening. We

game. That's what ends up happening. We see that Tyrion's point is driven home.

see that Tyrion's point is driven home. Trust no one. Because that's how Tyrion

Trust no one. Because that's how Tyrion thinks. He doesn't trust anyone. He is a

thinks. He doesn't trust anyone. He is a very pessimistic person. And I don't

very pessimistic person. And I don't really think that's the outlook you

really think that's the outlook you should have in the world. I think you

should have in the world. I think you can trust certain people. You just need

can trust certain people. You just need to be understanding of who you can trust

to be understanding of who you can trust and who you cannot trust. And so Tyrion

and who you cannot trust. And so Tyrion gets the better of Young Griff. And

gets the better of Young Griff. And Young Griff has a bit of that Targaryen

Young Griff has a bit of that Targaryen fieryness to him. Something that people

fieryness to him. Something that people have speculated on in the future of how

have speculated on in the future of how Young Griff is going to be. Young Griff

Young Griff is going to be. Young Griff basically rage quits. He knocks the

basically rage quits. He knocks the board and the pieces to the side. He

board and the pieces to the side. He forces Tyrion to clean them up. Very

forces Tyrion to clean them up. Very similar to the way Joffrey has like

similar to the way Joffrey has like Tyrion pick up his goblet during the

Tyrion pick up his goblet during the purple wedding. And all of this is very

purple wedding. And all of this is very interesting because it paints a lot of

interesting because it paints a lot of what we could see between the characters

what we could see between the characters of young Griff and Tyrion going forward.

of young Griff and Tyrion going forward. But the second half is where you get a

But the second half is where you get a little eh not so good in this chapter

little eh not so good in this chapter because it takes place in a town where

because it takes place in a town where they are to get some information on the

they are to get some information on the political climate going on with the war

political climate going on with the war in Meereen. But more importantly, we see

in Meereen. But more importantly, we see Tyrion's dark side as he pays for sex

Tyrion's dark side as he pays for sex and even asks for the woman to kill him

and even asks for the woman to kill him as he is suicidal. And there's some

as he is suicidal. And there's some really dark things that going go on here

really dark things that going go on here in terms of really bad alcoholism, in

in terms of really bad alcoholism, in terms of Tyrion, you know, raping this

terms of Tyrion, you know, raping this girl, in terms of just Tyrion being a

girl, in terms of just Tyrion being a awful human being. And eventually, why I

awful human being. And eventually, why I say this is a mixed bag chapter, not

say this is a mixed bag chapter, not only for those bad things that we see

only for those bad things that we see from Tyrion,

from Tyrion, but he is eventually captured by Jorah,

but he is eventually captured by Jorah, starting probably the worst plot line of

starting probably the worst plot line of the book. I think it's like this

the book. I think it's like this plotline plus Quentyn's plotline are

plotline plus Quentyn's plotline are probably the worst two of this book. I

probably the worst two of this book. I personally cannot think of a single

personally cannot think of a single chapter I like of Tyrion's after this

chapter I like of Tyrion's after this moment. And so it is that point. And

moment. And so it is that point. And another thing I find that's

another thing I find that's kind of a big problem I think George has

kind of a big problem I think George has in this book specifically,

in this book specifically, it just seems like a really big plot

it just seems like a really big plot convenience. like really out of every

convenience. like really out of every single brothel that Tyrion could go to,

single brothel that Tyrion could go to, he ends up going to the one with Jorah

he ends up going to the one with Jorah in it. And it's not one of those things

in it. And it's not one of those things where you can point to, oh well, in book

where you can point to, oh well, in book one, the same thing happens with Tyrion

one, the same thing happens with Tyrion and Catelyn. It's like, no, because both

and Catelyn. It's like, no, because both were heading towards the crossroad in

were heading towards the crossroad in and so it made sense. It's a logical hub

and so it made sense. It's a logical hub of where things would happen and where

of where things would happen and where you would go either to the west, the

you would go either to the west, the east, the north, or the south. This, it

east, the north, or the south. This, it just feels very random. it feels like

just feels very random. it feels like very convenient. And again, that's not

very convenient. And again, that's not bad to have every once in a while.

bad to have every once in a while. That's not to say conveniences are a bad

That's not to say conveniences are a bad thing, but it's when you have a lot of

thing, but it's when you have a lot of them, that's when you start to like look

them, that's when you start to like look at these and go, I don't know if that

at these and go, I don't know if that was the best point here. And the really

was the best point here. And the really I think the difficult part George has

I think the difficult part George has here is George had to come to an idea

here is George had to come to an idea where how does Tyrion now get away from

where how does Tyrion now get away from the young griff group to go to Daenerys?

the young griff group to go to Daenerys? That's the issue.

That's the issue. And I think how would you have willingly

And I think how would you have willingly gotten Tyrion away from them? That could

gotten Tyrion away from them? That could have been something difficult. Now what

have been something difficult. Now what you could have explored and this could

you could have explored and this could be something interesting that would have

be something interesting that would have I think worked a lot better is if we

I think worked a lot better is if we would have seen Tyrion actually

would have seen Tyrion actually willingly leave Young, willingly leave

willingly leave Young, willingly leave our party and try to search for Tisha.

our party and try to search for Tisha. One of the big things we see throughout

One of the big things we see throughout this entire plotline is Tyrion looking

this entire plotline is Tyrion looking for her. Where do [ __ ] go? And he's

for her. Where do [ __ ] go? And he's not going to be able to really bind that

not going to be able to really bind that with Dany and Young Griff. So you could

with Dany and Young Griff. So you could have his personal motivations kind of

have his personal motivations kind of getting through in terms of finding love

getting through in terms of finding love again. So that would have been something

again. So that would have been something where maybe he breaks off from their

where maybe he breaks off from their party and then maybe while he's out at

party and then maybe while he's out at these docks, maybe we have like a this

these docks, maybe we have like a this chapter, the second half of this chapter

chapter, the second half of this chapter is just him kind of wandering around in

is just him kind of wandering around in the city and eventually he's spotted.

the city and eventually he's spotted. That way it feels much more natural uh

That way it feels much more natural uh in terms of like people would have known

in terms of like people would have known that there was a dwarf going around and

that there was a dwarf going around and then maybe Jorah would have heard this

then maybe Jorah would have heard this and found him. It just doesn't feel as

and found him. It just doesn't feel as natural in terms of just Jorah being in

natural in terms of just Jorah being in the same brothless Tyrion at the same

the same brothless Tyrion at the same time, a complete coincidence. It just

time, a complete coincidence. It just doesn't really feel right to me. But I

doesn't really feel right to me. But I get why George did it. I just think it

get why George did it. I just think it could have been executed a bit better in

could have been executed a bit better in my opinion. That gets us into chapter

my opinion. That gets us into chapter 24, Danny 4. Again, another chapter that

24, Danny 4. Again, another chapter that has kind of its strengths and its

has kind of its strengths and its weaknesses. On one hand, I really like

weaknesses. On one hand, I really like the opening of this chapter with the

the opening of this chapter with the green grace and Danny. It oozes

green grace and Danny. It oozes suspicion. Something is not really right

suspicion. Something is not really right here. The green grace once again is

here. The green grace once again is talking down to Dany, kind of putting

talking down to Dany, kind of putting him her in her place, kind of knowing

him her in her place, kind of knowing information that it seems very

information that it seems very suspicious that she already knows before

suspicious that she already knows before Daenerys even tells her. But not only

Daenerys even tells her. But not only that, but we also have reflections of

that, but we also have reflections of the past. Dany trusting older women or

the past. Dany trusting older women or women, very similar to me. It's very

women, very similar to me. It's very apparent given that I just got done

apparent given that I just got done doing my review of the Miriam Mazdor

doing my review of the Miriam Mazdor chapter where she meets Dany. It almost

chapter where she meets Dany. It almost feels so similar here. But one of the

feels so similar here. But one of the things that comes out of this

things that comes out of this conversation is that the green grace

conversation is that the green grace suggests the only way to fix this

suggests the only way to fix this situation is for her to marry someone

situation is for her to marry someone with old Gishcari blood. Someone that

with old Gishcari blood. Someone that the Marines people can get behind. That

the Marines people can get behind. That leads to the Hisdar plot. Before we get

leads to the Hisdar plot. Before we get there, I want to talk about another

there, I want to talk about another interesting moral question that is

interesting moral question that is brought up here. The green grace kind of

brought up here. The green grace kind of brings up they have hostages.

brings up they have hostages. Why don't they kill them? Like why

Why don't they kill them? Like why doesn't Danny kill the hostages when

doesn't Danny kill the hostages when there are people dying? Free men are

there are people dying? Free men are dying. Her people are dying, but she's

dying. Her people are dying, but she's not using these hostages. And it's a

not using these hostages. And it's a part of again Danny is someone that is

part of again Danny is someone that is not a bad person. She tries to be a good

not a bad person. She tries to be a good person and she likes a lot of these

person and she likes a lot of these people, a lot of these young children

people, a lot of these young children that she's being given as hostages.

that she's being given as hostages. She's starting to enjoy them. And that's

She's starting to enjoy them. And that's the issue because it comes back to this

the issue because it comes back to this idea that Ned talks about that John and

idea that Ned talks about that John and Rob try to kind of go with or go through

Rob try to kind of go with or go through with. Don't be friends of people that

with. Don't be friends of people that are your subordinates. You may have to

are your subordinates. You may have to kill them one day or send them off to be

kill them one day or send them off to be killed. Especially in the case of Theon.

killed. Especially in the case of Theon. Ned never got close to Theon because Ned

Ned never got close to Theon because Ned knew he might one day have to kill

knew he might one day have to kill Theon. That's something that Dany

Theon. That's something that Dany doesn't do. And that's some advice that

doesn't do. And that's some advice that she probably sorely needs. I like all

she probably sorely needs. I like all that. But on the flip side, I find the

that. But on the flip side, I find the romance side of this chapter, which is

romance side of this chapter, which is the back half, to just be kind of

the back half, to just be kind of boring, kind of repetitive. It's just

boring, kind of repetitive. It's just Danny has so many love interests over

Danny has so many love interests over the entirety of the series. She also is

the entirety of the series. She also is someone that consistently thinks about

someone that consistently thinks about Dar Daario early on in this book. It

Dar Daario early on in this book. It just gets so repetitive. It's Dany

just gets so repetitive. It's Dany setting up the terms of a marriage with

setting up the terms of a marriage with Hizdar. If he can keep the peace and no

Hizdar. If he can keep the peace and no killings happen for 90 days, she will

killings happen for 90 days, she will marry him, albeit she doesn't really

marry him, albeit she doesn't really like him that much and even kisses him

like him that much and even kisses him to see if there's any type of, you know,

to see if there's any type of, you know, thing there. There isn't really. And so

thing there. There isn't really. And so Danny just sees it kind of as a win-win

Danny just sees it kind of as a win-win type scenario. If he can give the peace

type scenario. If he can give the peace for 90 days, well, at least she saved

for 90 days, well, at least she saved her people and it shows that there can

her people and it shows that there can be some stability. But on the other side

be some stability. But on the other side of it, if again he doesn't, it just kind

of it, if again he doesn't, it just kind of force stalls stuff like the marriage

of force stalls stuff like the marriage for now. And then we get to see Daario

for now. And then we get to see Daario and Daario comes back and Danny's real

and Daario comes back and Danny's real excited. She's getting all dressed up

excited. She's getting all dressed up and then he just knows she can't be with

and then he just knows she can't be with him. You know, he's a cell sword. And so

him. You know, he's a cell sword. And so part of this angers her, but it also

part of this angers her, but it also angers her because Daario tries to give

angers her because Daario tries to give her advice, telling her to be a dragon,

her advice, telling her to be a dragon, telling her to strike at her enemies,

telling her to strike at her enemies, killing the masters. And that's not who

killing the masters. And that's not who Dany is at this point. Danny is someone

Dany is at this point. Danny is someone that's not morally bad. She tries to be

that's not morally bad. She tries to be a good person and so she struggles with

a good person and so she struggles with that. It's something that the mer plot

that. It's something that the mer plot is pushing her further and further to

is pushing her further and further to the edge of how does she again get these

the edge of how does she again get these people to respect her, get these people

people to respect her, get these people to stop killing each other and bring

to stop killing each other and bring order to to Meereen? How does she do

order to to Meereen? How does she do that? And that's something she struggles

that? And that's something she struggles with a lot. So I there are bits and

with a lot. So I there are bits and pieces of this chapter I really love.

pieces of this chapter I really love. There's bits and pieces of the chapter I

There's bits and pieces of the chapter I really dislike. And that's kind of where

really dislike. And that's kind of where I am with Danny at times in this book.

I am with Danny at times in this book. But again, I don't think it's a bad

But again, I don't think it's a bad chapter at all. But I do think out of

chapter at all. But I do think out of the Danny chapter so far, probably her

the Danny chapter so far, probably her weakest. But just as I say that, this is

weakest. But just as I say that, this is probably my least favorite Dany chapter.

probably my least favorite Dany chapter. George once again seems to interspice

George once again seems to interspice his chapters perfectly. And I want to

his chapters perfectly. And I want to just kind of look at the next three

just kind of look at the next three chapters as they are the last three

chapters as they are the last three we're going to be doing in this

we're going to be doing in this retrospective for this part. We have a

retrospective for this part. We have a Danny chapter that's not so good,

Danny chapter that's not so good, followed by a John Con chapter, his

followed by a John Con chapter, his first one, one of the best chapters of

first one, one of the best chapters of the book, very highly rated for me and

the book, very highly rated for me and is my favorite of the first 27.

is my favorite of the first 27. We then get a Quentyn chapter, one of

We then get a Quentyn chapter, one of the worst chapters of the book, the

the worst chapters of the book, the second worst for me at this point. And

second worst for me at this point. And then we're followed up by another banger

then we're followed up by another banger in an Asha chapter. It really does show

in an Asha chapter. It really does show that I feel like George knows kind of

that I feel like George knows kind of his weaker chapters and he follows them

his weaker chapters and he follows them up with great chapters to kind of hide

up with great chapters to kind of hide them a little bit in his book. And so I

them a little bit in his book. And so I really love that because that's been a

really love that because that's been a consistent thing that I've seen in both

consistent thing that I've seen in both Feast for Crows and A Dance of Dragons

Feast for Crows and A Dance of Dragons in this book. So John Con 1 is a chapter

in this book. So John Con 1 is a chapter that I remember when I first started

that I remember when I first started reading this book, did not know we were

reading this book, did not know we were going to get this POV. I did not know

going to get this POV. I did not know that we were going to have this, but

that we were going to have this, but looking back it makes sense, right? You

looking back it makes sense, right? You can't really just introduce the Young

can't really just introduce the Young Griff plotline and then Tyrion leaves

Griff plotline and then Tyrion leaves and then just have no plot point here or

and then just have no plot point here or no POV here. And so John Conington is

no POV here. And so John Conington is the perfect POV because he reminds you

the perfect POV because he reminds you so much of Ned. He is someone that

so much of Ned. He is someone that reflects on the decisions he's made in

reflects on the decisions he's made in the past. He is someone that's a very

the past. He is someone that's a very complex character that has strengths and

complex character that has strengths and weaknesses. And we get a look into the

weaknesses. And we get a look into the history of the Battle of the Bells. But

history of the Battle of the Bells. But we see that John Khan is someone that is

we see that John Khan is someone that is highly untrusting of some of the people

highly untrusting of some of the people below him as again Tyrion has been lost.

below him as again Tyrion has been lost. something that would have been a very

something that would have been a very valuable piece being that he is Tyrion

valuable piece being that he is Tyrion Lannister and he was lost. But we see

Lannister and he was lost. But we see John Khan and Co heading to the Golden

John Khan and Co heading to the Golden Company's camp. We get to learn on their

Company's camp. We get to learn on their history and customs, which is always fun

history and customs, which is always fun to reread given the uh context of the

to reread given the uh context of the Duncan Egg novellas and what goes on

Duncan Egg novellas and what goes on there. It's just a really awesome

there. It's just a really awesome chapter that provides a lot of worldb

chapter that provides a lot of worldb building to the lore of the Blackfire

building to the lore of the Blackfire Rebellions and Bitter Steel and the

Rebellions and Bitter Steel and the Golden Company as a whole, how they

Golden Company as a whole, how they operate. Really fantastic chapter that I

operate. Really fantastic chapter that I love. We see the military leadership and

love. We see the military leadership and how it's changed uh from I believe it's

how it's changed uh from I believe it's Blackheart to now Harry um Strickland.

Blackheart to now Harry um Strickland. And I really love that because this is

And I really love that because this is kind of the reveal of Young Griff where

kind of the reveal of Young Griff where young Griff comes out looking like a

young Griff comes out looking like a prince. He's not just this, you know,

prince. He's not just this, you know, knight's squire or cells sword squire.

knight's squire or cells sword squire. He's now looking more like a Targaryen.

He's now looking more like a Targaryen. He's wearing rubies, fine clothing. And

He's wearing rubies, fine clothing. And we see Young Griff kind of reveal

we see Young Griff kind of reveal himself to the Golden Company. Now, what

himself to the Golden Company. Now, what I find is interesting here is that the

I find is interesting here is that the Golden Company are quite frustrated with

Golden Company are quite frustrated with the situation going on. There's been all

the situation going on. There's been all these different type of plans. First it

these different type of plans. First it was Viseris, then it was Daenerys was

was Viseris, then it was Daenerys was supposed to be they were supposed to

supposed to be they were supposed to back Daenerys, but then all those plans

back Daenerys, but then all those plans went ary. Now we're here with Young

went ary. Now we're here with Young Griff. And Young Griff steps up. He

Griff. And Young Griff steps up. He takes this chance, this thing that we

takes this chance, this thing that we haven't seen him do. And he really

haven't seen him do. And he really basically takes Tyrion's advice and uses

basically takes Tyrion's advice and uses it. He tells them, "Screw Daenerys.

it. He tells them, "Screw Daenerys. Screw trying to get to Meereine cuz

Screw trying to get to Meereine cuz that's insanely difficult. We've seen

that's insanely difficult. We've seen that with Quentyn's chapter.

that with Quentyn's chapter. Let's go to Wester. It's ripe for

Let's go to Wester. It's ripe for conquest." And at this, the Golden

conquest." And at this, the Golden Company realize they have a new leader.

Company realize they have a new leader. They realize is to be their king and to

They realize is to be their king and to lead them back home. Again, this is by

lead them back home. Again, this is by far my favorite chapter of the first 27.

far my favorite chapter of the first 27. I am a big sucker for the Blackfire lore

I am a big sucker for the Blackfire lore at this time. I love Young Griff. He's

at this time. I love Young Griff. He's one of my favorite characters going into

one of my favorite characters going into the next book. I'll give you guys a bit

the next book. I'll give you guys a bit of a spoiler for my other series going

of a spoiler for my other series going on right now. My hundred top 100

on right now. My hundred top 100 characters of A Song of Fire. Young

characters of A Song of Fire. Young Griff is unfortunately not on that list

Griff is unfortunately not on that list just because we haven't gotten a lot

just because we haven't gotten a lot with the character, but I'm really

with the character, but I'm really looking forward to getting more of this

looking forward to getting more of this character personally. Um, but yeah, it's

character personally. Um, but yeah, it's just this awesome chapter. It feels a

just this awesome chapter. It feels a lot like for instance Rob Stark's King

lot like for instance Rob Stark's King of the North chapter where it's like Rob

of the North chapter where it's like Rob coming into his own. Now, it's very

coming into his own. Now, it's very different because Rob in that is not

different because Rob in that is not really declaring himself as king. That's

really declaring himself as king. That's his bannerman. But here it's Young Griff

his bannerman. But here it's Young Griff proving his worth and them kind of

proving his worth and them kind of making the him their king. It's one of

making the him their king. It's one of those things. It feels very similar. And

those things. It feels very similar. And so I love everything this chapter does

so I love everything this chapter does and it's very vital that it's placed

and it's very vital that it's placed here because then we get Quentin 2. And

here because then we get Quentin 2. And I'm going to have a fairly big rant here

I'm going to have a fairly big rant here about Quentyn's character so far. And

about Quentyn's character so far. And that gets us to Quentyn 2. So Quentyn 2

that gets us to Quentyn 2. So Quentyn 2 is a chapter that it's slightly better

is a chapter that it's slightly better than the first one, which isn't saying

than the first one, which isn't saying much. If you guys remember, my rant for

much. If you guys remember, my rant for Quentyn one was a chapter that was

Quentyn one was a chapter that was unneeded. Didn't make really much sense

unneeded. Didn't make really much sense for this plot line to even exist. That

for this plot line to even exist. That didn't change in this chapter. Again,

didn't change in this chapter. Again, the only reason this chapter is more

the only reason this chapter is more interesting is because we get more of

interesting is because we get more of like the tattered prince and we also get

like the tattered prince and we also get like some battle stuff with Astapore.

like some battle stuff with Astapore. But what do we really get out of this

But what do we really get out of this chapter? It's a somewhat long chapter.

chapter? It's a somewhat long chapter. It's a chapter in which we learn that

It's a chapter in which we learn that Astapor has fallen and some of the stuff

Astapor has fallen and some of the stuff that we already learned with Daenerys's

that we already learned with Daenerys's chapter in terms of Yunkai and Astapor,

chapter in terms of Yunkai and Astapor, it just doesn't matter. I mean, nothing

it just doesn't matter. I mean, nothing in this chapter really adds anything to

in this chapter really adds anything to the story. And this is why I think one

the story. And this is why I think one of my biggest complaints with the early

of my biggest complaints with the early start of this book, very similar to Sam

start of this book, very similar to Sam in Feast for Crows,

in Feast for Crows, Quentyn

Quentyn didn't need to be introduced in terms of

didn't need to be introduced in terms of a POV if he wanted to until he meets

a POV if he wanted to until he meets Daenerys.

Daenerys. He just doesn't because once then he

He just doesn't because once then he actually gets to Marine, then you can

actually gets to Marine, then you can kind of explore his character. The only

kind of explore his character. The only thing that I can see as to why George

thing that I can see as to why George put this character and gave him more

put this character and gave him more POVs is because he dies at the end. And

POVs is because he dies at the end. And so you want him to be more of a

so you want him to be more of a character we like so it hits harder and

character we like so it hits harder and give him more time to develop. But the

give him more time to develop. But the problem becomes I find the character to

problem becomes I find the character to be every time he's a chapter he slows

be every time he's a chapter he slows down the pace. It comes down all the way

down the pace. It comes down all the way down to a crawl. And this chapter just

down to a crawl. And this chapter just does not and this character doesn't

does not and this character doesn't really have much going for him. Like

really have much going for him. Like there's not much in terms of defining an

there's not much in terms of defining an actual character. like the best we've

actual character. like the best we've got is he feels like he maybe is not

got is he feels like he maybe is not worthy of Daenerys. He's not the most

worthy of Daenerys. He's not the most attractive guy. Um and maybe some stuff

attractive guy. Um and maybe some stuff in terms of like honor, right? Breaking

in terms of like honor, right? Breaking oaths. Like that's something that could

oaths. Like that's something that could be interesting to explore in this

be interesting to explore in this chapter. It's one of the only things I

chapter. It's one of the only things I find interesting in this chapter. But

find interesting in this chapter. But like

like why is this character here? He's not

why is this character here? He's not interesting.

interesting. There's no reason to have this this

There's no reason to have this this character. It's very similar in my

character. It's very similar in my opinion to like Tyrion later on where

opinion to like Tyrion later on where it's like we just don't need like nine

it's like we just don't need like nine chapters or whatever it is of just

chapters or whatever it is of just Tyrion being a slave and all of that. It

Tyrion being a slave and all of that. It just you don't need it. And so I'm not

just you don't need it. And so I'm not going to really explain the tire too

going to really explain the tire too much, but more or less what we get is we

much, but more or less what we get is we see Quentyn with the windb blown, how

see Quentyn with the windb blown, how they've taken part in this battle um

they've taken part in this battle um with Astapore and it was kind of a

with Astapore and it was kind of a slaughter. It wasn't really even a

slaughter. It wasn't really even a fight. All of this we kind of already

fight. All of this we kind of already know from Danny's POVs later on anyway.

know from Danny's POVs later on anyway. So like doesn't matter. This information

So like doesn't matter. This information doesn't really matter to me. Um we also

doesn't really matter to me. Um we also then see that the group is trying to get

then see that the group is trying to get out of the windblown company.

out of the windblown company. Whatever. I mean it introduces some

Whatever. I mean it introduces some interesting conflicts of having to break

interesting conflicts of having to break oaths and vows which are more sacred um

oaths and vows which are more sacred um especially to higher people in Westeros

especially to higher people in Westeros which is kind of interesting but they

which is kind of interesting but they don't dwell on it very long and also

don't dwell on it very long and also they give them a copout they give our

they give them a copout they give our main like three Dornish a or George

main like three Dornish a or George gives our main three Dornish like a

gives our main three Dornish like a point where they have to make a decision

point where they have to make a decision you know if you go back to book one Aean

you know if you go back to book one Aean with John it comes to every point in

with John it comes to every point in someone's life where they have to make a

someone's life where they have to make a huge decision. Here is that decision you

huge decision. Here is that decision you would think. But then the story gives

would think. But then the story gives them a copout. The story goes, "Oh yeah,

them a copout. The story goes, "Oh yeah, the Tattered Prince goes, yeah, you guys

the Tattered Prince goes, yeah, you guys are going to basically start scouting

are going to basically start scouting and then we want you to basically go

and then we want you to basically go over to either the Second Sons or the

over to either the Second Sons or the Stormcloaks

Stormcloaks and then more or less be an inn with

and then more or less be an inn with Daenerys."

Daenerys." And you're sitting here and you're

And you're sitting here and you're going,

going, "How convenient can we get?" like, oh

"How convenient can we get?" like, oh wow, the main conflict of our characters

wow, the main conflict of our characters story is instantly solved, not because

story is instantly solved, not because of anything they did, but because the

of anything they did, but because the Tattered Prince wants them to do it. And

Tattered Prince wants them to do it. And I can understand the Tattered Prince's

I can understand the Tattered Prince's logic. It's not impossible, right? It's

logic. It's not impossible, right? It's not like not plausible plausible at all.

not like not plausible plausible at all. I understand his rationale,

I understand his rationale, but at the same time, for it to be out

but at the same time, for it to be out of like this group, I think I think it's

of like this group, I think I think it's like a thousand or 2,000 men, Quentyn

like a thousand or 2,000 men, Quentyn and the Dornish as new recruits are sent

and the Dornish as new recruits are sent to do this mission. Qu kind of

to do this mission. Qu kind of questionable. I know it's because they

questionable. I know it's because they speak the common tongue, but like, okay.

speak the common tongue, but like, okay. Um, it just seems too convenient. That's

Um, it just seems too convenient. That's what I've been talking about. There's

what I've been talking about. There's been a couple conveniences here and

been a couple conveniences here and there throughout this first part of the

there throughout this first part of the story, and this is the worst one because

story, and this is the worst one because it makes you kind of stretch what I

it makes you kind of stretch what I would believe the tattered prince would

would believe the tattered prince would do. It makes me question why did we even

do. It makes me question why did we even have this whole chapter setup of, oh,

have this whole chapter setup of, oh, you know, will we break our vows? Is

you know, will we break our vows? Is that dishonorable? When are we going to

that dishonorable? When are we going to break away from this? Could be a huge

break away from this? Could be a huge danger to our lives. And then the

danger to our lives. And then the chapter just resolves the conflict for

chapter just resolves the conflict for them. They didn't do anything to earn

them. They didn't do anything to earn it.

it. And so I don't like this chapter. I

And so I don't like this chapter. I don't like Quentyn as a character. The

don't like Quentyn as a character. The story is very bland for the character.

story is very bland for the character. Um I don't know what else to say. This

Um I don't know what else to say. This just isn't a very good chapter and it's

just isn't a very good chapter and it's down there with Quentyn one. At least

down there with Quentyn one. At least this one has a bit more stakes to it.

this one has a bit more stakes to it. There's more interesting concepts

There's more interesting concepts brought up. It just doesn't go anywhere.

brought up. It just doesn't go anywhere. And so I just did all of that ranting,

And so I just did all of that ranting, right? And what does George come back

right? And what does George come back and give us? He gives us Asha one, a

and give us? He gives us Asha one, a chapter that I have as my number four

chapter that I have as my number four ranked chapter of the first 27 chapters.

ranked chapter of the first 27 chapters. And it's a just a fantastic chapter. We

And it's a just a fantastic chapter. We get brought back into the character of

get brought back into the character of Asha. And it's really awesome because

Asha. And it's really awesome because you you think about Feast for Crows.

you you think about Feast for Crows. Asha kind of just disappears off the

Asha kind of just disappears off the face of the earth. You know, after the

face of the earth. You know, after the King's Mood, we get I think it's one

King's Mood, we get I think it's one more Varion chapter after the King's

more Varion chapter after the King's Mood and that's it, right? we don't get

Mood and that's it, right? we don't get a lot of what happens after and so you

a lot of what happens after and so you almost forget about Asha and what it's

almost forget about Asha and what it's great is because this is what an actual

great is because this is what an actual plotline looks like because where I just

plotline looks like because where I just talked about there was a convenience

talked about there was a convenience with the Quentyn stuff you might be

with the Quentyn stuff you might be thinking oh well it's very convenient

thinking oh well it's very convenient that Asha becomes the new POV for

that Asha becomes the new POV for Stannis but it's not convenient at all

Stannis but it's not convenient at all Asha makes logical sense would go to

Asha makes logical sense would go to Deepwood M she's nowhere that's safe

Deepwood M she's nowhere that's safe that she can stay in the Iron Islands so

that she can stay in the Iron Islands so what does she do? She could go to

what does she do? She could go to Deepwood M. She could maybe flee and go

Deepwood M. She could maybe flee and go into kind of like an exile type

into kind of like an exile type situation, go become a merchant or a

situation, go become a merchant or a pirate, but she goes to Deepwood M. And

pirate, but she goes to Deepwood M. And that makes I think a lot of sense for

that makes I think a lot of sense for her. It's something that she's taken

her. It's something that she's taken over. She can maybe kind of feel some

over. She can maybe kind of feel some sort of safety there for now. That all

sort of safety there for now. That all makes sense. Stannis would take Deepwood

makes sense. Stannis would take Deepwood M because a it's closer to the wall and

M because a it's closer to the wall and two, it gains him leverage to say he's

two, it gains him leverage to say he's the one taking out the Ironborn as well.

the one taking out the Ironborn as well. It's it's close to where he is. So it

It's it's close to where he is. So it all adds up into why this occurs in

all adds up into why this occurs in terms of storytelling. And so let's look

terms of storytelling. And so let's look at the actual chapter,

at the actual chapter, the content that we get here and how

the content that we get here and how good it is as well. So, the only thing I

good it is as well. So, the only thing I will say that kind of brings this PO

will say that kind of brings this PO down for me is that we get a very

down for me is that we get a very extended sex scene with Carl the maid

extended sex scene with Carl the maid and Asha to the point where I'm just

and Asha to the point where I'm just like,

like, I get that that Asha had sex, but do we

I get that that Asha had sex, but do we really need almost like two pages worth

really need almost like two pages worth of this? like it feels like you're

of this? like it feels like you're reading like a I don't know what you

reading like a I don't know what you would call like a sex novel or like I

would call like a sex novel or like I don't know what you would call it, but

don't know what you would call it, but it's basically how it plays out in the

it's basically how it plays out in the the two pages it's on more or less. And

the two pages it's on more or less. And so I understand why it's necessary for

so I understand why it's necessary for George to show that Asha is having sex.

George to show that Asha is having sex. You can just do it in a better way. Just

You can just do it in a better way. Just like be like, "Oh yeah, they started

like be like, "Oh yeah, they started doing it and then that's it. Cut it off

doing it and then that's it. Cut it off right there. We don't need to hear the

right there. We don't need to hear the whole thing."

whole thing." But the point of what George is trying

But the point of what George is trying to do with it is showing that Asha feels

to do with it is showing that Asha feels all the pressures of the world are are

all the pressures of the world are are slowly drag are slowly boxing her in.

slowly drag are slowly boxing her in. She sees her life will be ending soon as

She sees her life will be ending soon as either the Northmen will come for her or

either the Northmen will come for her or if she leaves the Ironborn coming for

if she leaves the Ironborn coming for her and Euron. She sees her life is

her and Euron. She sees her life is coming to a close. And so just for these

coming to a close. And so just for these few, you know, minutes or whatever long

few, you know, minutes or whatever long they're having sex, she's taken out of

they're having sex, she's taken out of that. she's able to, you know, have a

that. she's able to, you know, have a life and enjoy things going on. And so,

life and enjoy things going on. And so, it's a point of that. It's trying to

it's a point of that. It's trying to take away some of that stress on Asha.

take away some of that stress on Asha. Outside of that, this chapter is pretty

Outside of that, this chapter is pretty perfect. We see Asha trying to figure

perfect. We see Asha trying to figure out what to do as she has fled the king

out what to do as she has fled the king the king's move for Deepwood M. Should

the king's move for Deepwood M. Should she flee or fight? And we see Stannis

she flee or fight? And we see Stannis along with the Northmen attack her in

along with the Northmen attack her in the middle of the night as they try to

the middle of the night as they try to sneak into the castle to the open the

sneak into the castle to the open the gates. But Asha has faced with the

gates. But Asha has faced with the decision. She can either flee back to

decision. She can either flee back to her boats or try to fight them at

her boats or try to fight them at Deepwood Mott. And her rationale is

Deepwood Mott. And her rationale is pretty sound. When she tried to take

pretty sound. When she tried to take Deepwood Mott, it the castle didn't help

Deepwood Mott, it the castle didn't help them. It wasn't that defensible. She was

them. It wasn't that defensible. She was able to take it pretty easily. And so

able to take it pretty easily. And so she comes to the same conclusion. She

she comes to the same conclusion. She must flee to her boats. The only issue

must flee to her boats. The only issue is the Northmen know these forests

is the Northmen know these forests better than she does. And in the night

better than she does. And in the night they are caught up once again by Stannis

they are caught up once again by Stannis and the Northmen and Asha fights for a

and the Northmen and Asha fights for a while being able to kill many men along

while being able to kill many men along with some of her companions. But

with some of her companions. But eventually she is caught and she sees as

eventually she is caught and she sees as the as the banner of Stannis comes upon

the as the banner of Stannis comes upon them and leaving Asha to an interesting

them and leaving Asha to an interesting fate. Is Asha going to die or be

fate. Is Asha going to die or be captured? I think for any reader, they

captured? I think for any reader, they know she's going to be captured because

know she's going to be captured because we need a POV for Stannis, but it makes

we need a POV for Stannis, but it makes sense as to why she would just be

sense as to why she would just be captured as Asha is a very valuable

captured as Asha is a very valuable hostage. And that ends Asha one for a

hostage. And that ends Asha one for a Dance with Dragons, the 28th chapter of

Dance with Dragons, the 28th chapter of of Dance with Dragons being Tyrion 7.

of Dance with Dragons being Tyrion 7. And so before we get into this specific

And so before we get into this specific chapter, I want to talk about Tyrion

chapter, I want to talk about Tyrion specifically in terms of the rest of the

specifically in terms of the rest of the book. Tyrion still has a lot of chapters

book. Tyrion still has a lot of chapters left even in this only like 14 15

left even in this only like 14 15 chapter part of the book that we're

chapter part of the book that we're going to be covering which is more the

going to be covering which is more the middle to then a little after the

middle to then a little after the middle. He has three chapters in here

middle. He has three chapters in here and I don't think any of his chapters

and I don't think any of his chapters are particularly good after he leaves

are particularly good after he leaves the young griff section of his story. So

the young griff section of his story. So the first half of his story I thought he

the first half of his story I thought he was enjoyable. Um I think he was really

was enjoyable. Um I think he was really good in some chapters just kind of okay

good in some chapters just kind of okay in others. pretty much every chapter,

in others. pretty much every chapter, the rest of the book for me with Tyrion,

the rest of the book for me with Tyrion, I don't have a lot of positives to say

I don't have a lot of positives to say about the character. I don't enjoy

about the character. I don't enjoy really much of what's going on in his

really much of what's going on in his chapters or even who he's with. And

chapters or even who he's with. And that's I think part of the problem to me

that's I think part of the problem to me is Tyrion's journey is basically now the

is Tyrion's journey is basically now the same as Quentyn's. It's I have to get to

same as Quentyn's. It's I have to get to Daenerys. How do we get to Daenerys and

Daenerys. How do we get to Daenerys and all of that? Now for Tyrion, I will say

all of that? Now for Tyrion, I will say he's a more interesting character than

he's a more interesting character than Quentin. So that helps his case quite a

Quentin. So that helps his case quite a lot because I still have Tyrion's

lot because I still have Tyrion's chapters so far above Quentyn's. But if

chapters so far above Quentyn's. But if you even look at this chapter, so Tyrion

you even look at this chapter, so Tyrion 7 is our first chapter post the young

7 is our first chapter post the young griff storyline and it is not a good

griff storyline and it is not a good one. I think Tyrion 7 is probably one of

one. I think Tyrion 7 is probably one of the worst chapters of this book because

the worst chapters of this book because all that happens is it's Tyrion and

all that happens is it's Tyrion and Jorah and the two are not very

Jorah and the two are not very interesting to read with each other

interesting to read with each other because Jorah does not really talk to

because Jorah does not really talk to Tyrion at all. Just kind of like lugs

Tyrion at all. Just kind of like lugs him around, wants him to shut up a bunch

him around, wants him to shut up a bunch and this isn't the Jorah of the show. I

and this isn't the Jorah of the show. I think that needs to be made very

think that needs to be made very apparent. Ian Glenn, who played the

apparent. Ian Glenn, who played the character of Jorah in the show, was much

character of Jorah in the show, was much more likable. Um, Jorah in the books, in

more likable. Um, Jorah in the books, in my opinion, is not the most likable

my opinion, is not the most likable character given what he does and how

character given what he does and how kind of weird he is towards Daenerys and

kind of weird he is towards Daenerys and kind of the things that he does in that

kind of the things that he does in that does in specifically, I would say, book

does in specifically, I would say, book three. He's not the most likable

three. He's not the most likable character. And so you pair him up with

character. And so you pair him up with Tyrion where Tyrion is kind of on this

Tyrion where Tyrion is kind of on this journey of self-discovery and what comes

journey of self-discovery and what comes after King's Landing and his family and

after King's Landing and his family and being in exile. And you so you pair the

being in exile. And you so you pair the two up together and they're not the most

two up together and they're not the most interesting duo whatsoever because

interesting duo whatsoever because Tyrion has nobody really to play off of,

Tyrion has nobody really to play off of, right? It's him almost talking to a

right? It's him almost talking to a brick wall. So that part of the chapter

brick wall. So that part of the chapter is not very interesting. And so then the

is not very interesting. And so then the other part of the chapter is it's trying

other part of the chapter is it's trying to figure out how do we get some sort of

to figure out how do we get some sort of passage for Tyrion to get to Daenerys.

passage for Tyrion to get to Daenerys. It's the same idea as of Quentyn, right?

It's the same idea as of Quentyn, right? It's basically just taking what that

It's basically just taking what that chapter was and just recycling it here

chapter was and just recycling it here with Tyrion. And so Tyrion and Jorah end

with Tyrion. And so Tyrion and Jorah end up going to see the widow of the

up going to see the widow of the waterfront after they spend the night in

waterfront after they spend the night in an inn. And basically at first it's like

an inn. And basically at first it's like she doesn't seem like she's going to

she doesn't seem like she's going to give them passage and she's questioning

give them passage and she's questioning Jorah's motives to go to see Daenerys

Jorah's motives to go to see Daenerys and all this stuff. and she kind of

and all this stuff. and she kind of basically turns them down until Penny

basically turns them down until Penny attacks Tyrion and then she's like,

attacks Tyrion and then she's like, "Okay, well, you guys can, you know, go

"Okay, well, you guys can, you know, go there." As the boat is suspected not to

there." As the boat is suspected not to reach its destination. It's just a

reach its destination. It's just a really weird awkward way of them getting

really weird awkward way of them getting transportation. The Penny attack, I

transportation. The Penny attack, I guess, is the most interesting part of

guess, is the most interesting part of this chapter because it is adding

this chapter because it is adding another level to the purple wedding,

another level to the purple wedding, being that Penny was one of the people

being that Penny was one of the people in the actual joust that that started

in the actual joust that that started almost the whole conflict that

almost the whole conflict that Littlefinger bought so that it would

Littlefinger bought so that it would pretty much put Tyrion and Joffrey at

pretty much put Tyrion and Joffrey at odds during the wedding to frame him.

odds during the wedding to frame him. It's interesting that that layer comes

It's interesting that that layer comes about in this book, but I don't, you

about in this book, but I don't, you know, this and this is specifically

know, this and this is specifically going to look at the next couple

going to look at the next couple chapters. I don't particularly enjoy the

chapters. I don't particularly enjoy the characters of Penny and Tyrion together.

characters of Penny and Tyrion together. Again, it's putting Tyrion with a bunch

Again, it's putting Tyrion with a bunch of people that are not really that

of people that are not really that witty. They're not really playing off of

witty. They're not really playing off of Tyrion's best parts, and that's, you

Tyrion's best parts, and that's, you know, his political mind and things like

know, his political mind and things like that. It's putting him in this other

that. It's putting him in this other element that I just don't really find

element that I just don't really find that enjoyable. And so, the chapter kind

that enjoyable. And so, the chapter kind of ends with them getting passage. But,

of ends with them getting passage. But, as of right now, I have this as a bottom

as of right now, I have this as a bottom three chapter of the book. So far, even

three chapter of the book. So far, even with the chatters we're going to do in

with the chatters we're going to do in today's video, and even as I'm a little

today's video, and even as I'm a little bit further in my retrospective in terms

bit further in my retrospective in terms of actually reading chapters, I just

of actually reading chapters, I just didn't want to make it as long in this

didn't want to make it as long in this video. But even going further, this is

video. But even going further, this is still in my opinion the worst chap the

still in my opinion the worst chap the worst chapter outside of Quentyn

worst chapter outside of Quentyn chapters. So yeah, I'm not a big fan of

chapters. So yeah, I'm not a big fan of Tyrion 7. So let's kind of move on to

Tyrion 7. So let's kind of move on to maybe some better chapters. Now getting

maybe some better chapters. Now getting into chapter 29, we have John 6. Now,

into chapter 29, we have John 6. Now, unfortunately, once again, I don't

unfortunately, once again, I don't really think this is the strongest

really think this is the strongest chapter for John. I just think it's a,

chapter for John. I just think it's a, you know, fine middle of the book kind

you know, fine middle of the book kind of chapter. It's not anything crazy. You

of chapter. It's not anything crazy. You know, we're still post Stannis being at

know, we're still post Stannis being at the wall. So, a lot of the, I would say,

the wall. So, a lot of the, I would say, more interesting parts of the wall,

more interesting parts of the wall, which Jon has been a very consistent and

which Jon has been a very consistent and good POV so far of this book and will

good POV so far of this book and will continue to be one. This is definitely

continue to be one. This is definitely just another building block chapter. It

just another building block chapter. It doesn't really have like any real

doesn't really have like any real massive reveals. It doesn't really

massive reveals. It doesn't really forward the plot a ton. It's just kind

forward the plot a ton. It's just kind of one of those middle chapters. So,

of one of those middle chapters. So, this chapter with Jon and John 6 is

this chapter with Jon and John 6 is focused on about two or three things

focused on about two or three things really. So, the first thing that you

really. So, the first thing that you have happening in the chapter is Jon is

have happening in the chapter is Jon is sending out three rangings. One with

sending out three rangings. One with Alister Thorne included in it. And this

Alister Thorne included in it. And this could be seen as a very good play by

could be seen as a very good play by Jon, even though this is isn't what it

Jon, even though this is isn't what it is meant to do, is that you're ridding

is meant to do, is that you're ridding yourself of a big threat to your power.

yourself of a big threat to your power. Alistister Thorne being basically Jon's

Alistister Thorne being basically Jon's biggest rival outside of maybe Janos

biggest rival outside of maybe Janos Slint who is already dead in this book.

Slint who is already dead in this book. And so you can see it from that point of

And so you can see it from that point of view. It's actually a good political

view. It's actually a good political move to do so because it's kind of a

move to do so because it's kind of a win-win situation. On one hand, if he

win-win situation. On one hand, if he does die, well, oh well. You know, he's

does die, well, oh well. You know, he's somebody that was not very he was

somebody that was not very he was somebody that was not a big fan of you

somebody that was not a big fan of you and would have been probably plotting

and would have been probably plotting your demise. But if he does come back,

your demise. But if he does come back, well, all the all the better, right? He

well, all the all the better, right? He comes back with successful ranging

comes back with successful ranging finding out whatever information and

finding out whatever information and Alistister Thorne is a good warrior. And

Alistister Thorne is a good warrior. And in that sense, it makes a lot of sense

in that sense, it makes a lot of sense for Jon to send Alistister Thorne. But

for Jon to send Alistister Thorne. But that's that's not really what Jon was

that's that's not really what Jon was intending. But Thorne has to go

intending. But Thorne has to go regardless. He realizes, you know, he

regardless. He realizes, you know, he can't deny this order. If he denies an

can't deny this order. If he denies an order, he's going to end up like Slint.

order, he's going to end up like Slint. The next part of this chapter kind of

The next part of this chapter kind of follows Jon doing some training as he

follows Jon doing some training as he first starts with sparring with three

first starts with sparring with three new recruits. It's him just beating up

new recruits. It's him just beating up on them. uh kind of reminds me of Jon's

on them. uh kind of reminds me of Jon's first chapter at the wall in a game of

first chapter at the wall in a game of thrones where he's just vastly better

thrones where he's just vastly better than everybody, you know, here in these

than everybody, you know, here in these recruits specifically and kind of plays

recruits specifically and kind of plays out the same except Jon is doing a

out the same except Jon is doing a threeon-one and basically takes him out

threeon-one and basically takes him out pretty easily. But then you have

pretty easily. But then you have Rattleshirt, who we know is Mance, but

Rattleshirt, who we know is Mance, but is pretending to be Rattleshirt. He has

is pretending to be Rattleshirt. He has not been revealed yet, but he will very

not been revealed yet, but he will very soon. Rattleshirt or Mance actually

soon. Rattleshirt or Mance actually challenges Jon to a fight. Now, the

challenges Jon to a fight. Now, the fight is interesting because Jon doesn't

fight is interesting because Jon doesn't actually fight with Longclaw here. So,

actually fight with Longclaw here. So, it's quite a different fight if these

it's quite a different fight if these two would be fighting to the death if

two would be fighting to the death if they'd actually met in the field because

they'd actually met in the field because Jon would have Longclaw. And I do think

Jon would have Longclaw. And I do think that makes the difference because Mance

that makes the difference because Mance does end up getting the better of Jon.

does end up getting the better of Jon. And the fight itself is kind of

And the fight itself is kind of interesting because some people kind of

interesting because some people kind of speculate that this is Arthur Dayne. I

speculate that this is Arthur Dayne. I don't think so, but I think it is

don't think so, but I think it is interesting. I think that's what really

interesting. I think that's what really sparks this debate is kind of this fight

sparks this debate is kind of this fight and then also some of the songs that

and then also some of the songs that Mance seems to sing, but yeah, I mean

Mance seems to sing, but yeah, I mean it's it's a fight. It doesn't really

it's it's a fight. It doesn't really have much consequence to it. It's not

have much consequence to it. It's not really that important in my opinion, but

really that important in my opinion, but it is some action and passes the time in

it is some action and passes the time in this chapter a little bit. Um, after

this chapter a little bit. Um, after this point, Jon gets a letter saying

this point, Jon gets a letter saying Arya will marry Ramsay and he thinks on

Arya will marry Ramsay and he thinks on kind of their time together when they

kind of their time together when they were, you know, young in book one and

were, you know, young in book one and that leads him to taking a walk. He see

that leads him to taking a walk. He see he's, you know, he's dealing with a lot

he's, you know, he's dealing with a lot of issues right now. He's dealing with

of issues right now. He's dealing with what does he do about Arya, somebody

what does he do about Arya, somebody that he deeply cares about, marrying

that he deeply cares about, marrying this Ramsay person that doesn't have a

this Ramsay person that doesn't have a good reputation. Then you also have

good reputation. Then you also have issues with the Wildlings and the Nights

issues with the Wildlings and the Nights Watch and other issues going on. And he

Watch and other issues going on. And he just seems overwhelmed. And it even

just seems overwhelmed. And it even seems to get to him because he seems

seems to get to him because he seems like he spots Egret. He almost he sees

like he spots Egret. He almost he sees this woman in front of him and it looks

this woman in front of him and it looks like Egret, but it's actually Mel. And

like Egret, but it's actually Mel. And it's Mel kind of I would assume doing

it's Mel kind of I would assume doing tricks on Jon's mind to basically show

tricks on Jon's mind to basically show that she has power, right?

that she has power, right? Mel is very clearly trying to get on

Mel is very clearly trying to get on Jon's good side, but she tells him a

Jon's good side, but she tells him a couple things. The first thing she tells

couple things. The first thing she tells him is that she has seen three of the

him is that she has seen three of the men coming back is as well as Arya on a

men coming back is as well as Arya on a dying horse fleeing her marriage. Now,

dying horse fleeing her marriage. Now, not much truly happens here because it's

not much truly happens here because it's really just George setting the table for

really just George setting the table for things to come later, right? So, for

things to come later, right? So, for instance, in the Mel chapter we're going

instance, in the Mel chapter we're going to get, those things are going to be

to get, those things are going to be important to understanding Jon's

important to understanding Jon's plotline and going forward because it

plotline and going forward because it has to be established. Jon is not going

has to be established. Jon is not going to automatically just trust Melisandre

to automatically just trust Melisandre because she spouts some visions. He's

because she spouts some visions. He's going to need proof that her magic

going to need proof that her magic actually works and and her visions. Kind

actually works and and her visions. Kind of the same idea with like Stannis. And

of the same idea with like Stannis. And so, those things will happen a little

so, those things will happen a little bit later. It's really, this chapter

bit later. It's really, this chapter really is just setting up Jon and Mel's

really is just setting up Jon and Mel's relationship going forward and what

relationship going forward and what they're going to be kind of doing and

they're going to be kind of doing and how, you know, Mel will use Mance and

how, you know, Mel will use Mance and all that stuff. It's very much a setup

all that stuff. It's very much a setup chapter. Um, doesn't have a terrible

chapter. Um, doesn't have a terrible amount of substance to it to be honest.

amount of substance to it to be honest. It's just kind of a mid chapter for Jon.

It's just kind of a mid chapter for Jon. But saying that, right, it's not a bad

But saying that, right, it's not a bad chapter of this book, right? I like this

chapter of this book, right? I like this chapter significantly more than say like

chapter significantly more than say like Tyrion or Quentyn chapters. just for the

Tyrion or Quentyn chapters. just for the Jon story line. It's probably one of the

Jon story line. It's probably one of the weaker ones of the first kind of six for

weaker ones of the first kind of six for him. You might be thinking and we're

him. You might be thinking and we're starting this video, we've had two

starting this video, we've had two chapters that I'm not too thrilled with.

chapters that I'm not too thrilled with. Um especially the first one. The second

Um especially the first one. The second one's fine, but you know, not any

one's fine, but you know, not any bangers, but then George comes back

bangers, but then George comes back swinging. And I've always said this

swinging. And I've always said this throughout my Beast for Crows

throughout my Beast for Crows retrospective and this retrospective.

retrospective and this retrospective. George has to know what what his weakest

George has to know what what his weakest chapters are going to be or at least

chapters are going to be or at least perceives which ones are not going to be

perceives which ones are not going to be received as well. Because think about

received as well. Because think about those two chapters, right? One of the

those two chapters, right? One of the worst chapters in the story and it comes

worst chapters in the story and it comes between an Asha chapter which I think is

between an Asha chapter which I think is one of the best of the early section of

one of the best of the early section of the story and then it comes between the

the story and then it comes between the best chapter in my opinion of the book.

best chapter in my opinion of the book. Now there is also a John chapter in

Now there is also a John chapter in there but I think these two chapters

there but I think these two chapters going to hide those because we get at

going to hide those because we get at number 30 Davos 4. And I've talked about

number 30 Davos 4. And I've talked about this. I even just made a video talking

this. I even just made a video talking about this chapter a little bit because

about this chapter a little bit because for me at least early on in this

for me at least early on in this retrospective, you know, we're going to

retrospective, you know, we're going to be by the end of this video about 40 41

be by the end of this video about 40 41 chapters into the book of the possible

chapters into the book of the possible 73. And this is my favorite chapter of

73. And this is my favorite chapter of the book, I'm pretty sure. But we'll see

the book, I'm pretty sure. But we'll see if that changes by the time I get done

if that changes by the time I get done with this series. But Davos 4 is the

with this series. But Davos 4 is the North remembers chapter. And I love this

North remembers chapter. And I love this chapter so much because it parallels

chapter so much because it parallels actually Ned's last chapter in a Game of

actually Ned's last chapter in a Game of Thrones. If you guys remember with Ned's

Thrones. If you guys remember with Ned's last chapter in Game of Thrones, it's

last chapter in Game of Thrones, it's kind of all about, you know, him

kind of all about, you know, him thinking about his life and the choices

thinking about his life and the choices that he's made to, you know, getting

that he's made to, you know, getting here and the possibility of him dying

here and the possibility of him dying soon or whatever, right? Now, it's a

soon or whatever, right? Now, it's a little different in terms of the ending,

little different in terms of the ending, right? Because Ned, his whole plotline

right? Because Ned, his whole plotline is about will he give up his honor and

is about will he give up his honor and all these things to protect his family.

all these things to protect his family. Davos's isn't like that because Davos is

Davos's isn't like that because Davos is in a better situation than Ned is, but

in a better situation than Ned is, but you still see those same things kind of

you still see those same things kind of playing out with Davos's chapter, right?

playing out with Davos's chapter, right? The beginning of this chapter opens with

The beginning of this chapter opens with kind of his situation, right? His

kind of his situation, right? His connection with the guards and learning

connection with the guards and learning the history of of the Manderlys and also

the history of of the Manderlys and also this jail cell that he is in the wolf's

this jail cell that he is in the wolf's den which has a very lengthy history and

den which has a very lengthy history and is insanely awesome to like learn about

is insanely awesome to like learn about in this chapter. And we even get a

in this chapter. And we even get a little bit more about how Davos seems to

little bit more about how Davos seems to be treating being treated well. Right?

be treating being treated well. Right? If you think about Davos 3, why Manderly

If you think about Davos 3, why Manderly publicly wanted Davos's head, right? So

publicly wanted Davos's head, right? So why is Davos being able to have simple

why is Davos being able to have simple requests being filled out? You know,

requests being filled out? You know, things for parchment to be able to

things for parchment to be able to write, to be able to read. Um he's

write, to be able to read. Um he's getting a lot of luxuries that he wasn't

getting a lot of luxuries that he wasn't even getting when he say he was a

even getting when he say he was a prisoner of stannises in a storm of

prisoner of stannises in a storm of swords. Davos is treated quite well. And

swords. Davos is treated quite well. And so there's a little bit of this unease

so there's a little bit of this unease building in you, the reader and Davos.

building in you, the reader and Davos. Why has he lived this long? Why is he

Why has he lived this long? Why is he being treated kind of okay? It's a

being treated kind of okay? It's a little weird until all of a sudden

little weird until all of a sudden during the night, Robbit Glover comes to

during the night, Robbit Glover comes to Davos in the middle of the night asking

Davos in the middle of the night asking for him to follow him. And obviously

for him to follow him. And obviously Davos is going to be very wary of this,

Davos is going to be very wary of this, right? Is this the time when Davos dies?

right? Is this the time when Davos dies? What is truly happening here? And as the

What is truly happening here? And as the tension kind of builds,

tension kind of builds, Davos is introduced once again to Wyman

Davos is introduced once again to Wyman Manderly. And you have this whole huge

Manderly. And you have this whole huge reveal that ends up actually changing

reveal that ends up actually changing the northern politics completely because

the northern politics completely because we learn here that Manderly is playing

we learn here that Manderly is playing the phrase for fools, right? He's act

the phrase for fools, right? He's act he's trying to act but he can't because

he's trying to act but he can't because his son is being held captive.

his son is being held captive. And so Wyan Manderly is playing almost

And so Wyan Manderly is playing almost 3D chess, right? He's trying to make

3D chess, right? He's trying to make some moves to get the phrase out of

some moves to get the phrase out of power and the Bolton's out of power, but

power and the Bolton's out of power, but he needs some certain things from Davos.

he needs some certain things from Davos. And we learn about Wex, a character that

And we learn about Wex, a character that mysteriously kind of disappears in a

mysteriously kind of disappears in a Clash of Kings with Theon, but we never

Clash of Kings with Theon, but we never see him again, right? Theon doesn't

see him again, right? Theon doesn't really think of Wex, none of those

really think of Wex, none of those things. But Wex pops out here as Wyan

things. But Wex pops out here as Wyan Manderly and Robert Glover have found

Manderly and Robert Glover have found him. And they reveal that Bran and

him. And they reveal that Bran and Rickon seem to be alive. And

Rickon seem to be alive. And specifically, they know where Rickon is.

specifically, they know where Rickon is. He's in Skagos. And that leads Davos to

He's in Skagos. And that leads Davos to then go to Skagos.

then go to Skagos. It's so great because this chapter is so

It's so great because this chapter is so perfect for the reader because not only

perfect for the reader because not only is it a huge reveal to Davos, but it's

is it a huge reveal to Davos, but it's we're kind of in this dark period where

we're kind of in this dark period where the Starks have been scattered, right?

the Starks have been scattered, right? And none of them are really trying to

And none of them are really trying to get power, right? If you think about

get power, right? If you think about Arya, she's learning. Sans is in a

Arya, she's learning. Sans is in a learning position. All of our Stark

learning position. All of our Stark characters are kind of growing at this

characters are kind of growing at this point. None of them are looking to

point. None of them are looking to reclaim the north. It's only Stannis.

reclaim the north. It's only Stannis. And so when you have the Manorly have

And so when you have the Manorly have this idea that yeah, we'll back this

this idea that yeah, we'll back this we'll back Stannis if you get you know

we'll back Stannis if you get you know Rick on it introduces another element

Rick on it introduces another element into this chapter that's interesting.

into this chapter that's interesting. And the one thing I also find that's

And the one thing I also find that's interesting about the set of chapters

interesting about the set of chapters we're doing in this you know set in this

we're doing in this you know set in this retrospective and this part of the

retrospective and this part of the video. There's a lot of different plot

video. There's a lot of different plot lines that just end. Right? That's one

lines that just end. Right? That's one thing I find very weird about Dance

thing I find very weird about Dance Dragons is there's a lot of plot lines

Dragons is there's a lot of plot lines that even like halfway into the book,

that even like halfway into the book, they just end. Like for instance, this

they just end. Like for instance, this is our last Davos chapter until Winds of

is our last Davos chapter until Winds of Winter. Whenever we get Winds of Winter,

Winter. Whenever we get Winds of Winter, it will pick up after this chapter.

it will pick up after this chapter. There is no chapter in this book after

There is no chapter in this book after this. And you know, others that I'm

this. And you know, others that I'm going to talk about in this video, you

going to talk about in this video, you know, for instance, Mel only has one

know, for instance, Mel only has one chapter. She does not appear until

chapter. She does not appear until probably winds of winter. If you think

probably winds of winter. If you think about Arya Hoda, he has a chapter in

about Arya Hoda, he has a chapter in this book and we won't see him again

this book and we won't see him again until Winds of Winter. Bran, he only has

until Winds of Winter. Bran, he only has three chapters in this book, but this

three chapters in this book, but this will be the last chapter that he has

will be the last chapter that he has until Winds of Winters. You see a lot of

until Winds of Winters. You see a lot of the plots kind of ending quite early on

the plots kind of ending quite early on in this on in this book, which I find

in this on in this book, which I find really fascinating and I wonder why

really fascinating and I wonder why George did it that way. Now, part of it

George did it that way. Now, part of it is the timing of events. Maybe you want

is the timing of events. Maybe you want a passage of time to occur before we go

a passage of time to occur before we go back to Davos, right, of him sailing to

back to Davos, right, of him sailing to Skagos and then maybe in the next book

Skagos and then maybe in the next book we pick up on him actually being in

we pick up on him actually being in Skagos. Who knows? Number 31, we have

Skagos. Who knows? Number 31, we have Danny 5. So again, what I've talked

Danny 5. So again, what I've talked about with Daenerys pretty much

about with Daenerys pretty much throughout the early portion of this

throughout the early portion of this book is she's just a POV that's pretty

book is she's just a POV that's pretty okay, right? She's not good, but she's

okay, right? She's not good, but she's she's not terribly bad, but she's not

she's not terribly bad, but she's not really good either. She's kind of stuck

really good either. She's kind of stuck somewhere in the middle where none of

somewhere in the middle where none of her chapters really feel bad, but none

her chapters really feel bad, but none of them are like the best chapters of

of them are like the best chapters of the book, right? So like even if you

the book, right? So like even if you look at my ratings, which I'll talk

look at my ratings, which I'll talk about by the end of this book, a lot of

about by the end of this book, a lot of Daenerys's chapters are just in the

Daenerys's chapters are just in the middle. So that's kind of how I feel

middle. So that's kind of how I feel about this chapter as well because Danny

about this chapter as well because Danny in Danny 5 really feels the trap is

in Danny 5 really feels the trap is tightening on Meereen. They are being

tightening on Meereen. They are being blockaded but have no navy to combat it.

blockaded but have no navy to combat it. And Daenerys refuses to use her dragons.

And Daenerys refuses to use her dragons. She's completely lost control of

She's completely lost control of dragons. Brown Ben Plum is someone that

dragons. Brown Ben Plum is someone that keeps pushing for that. When Daenerys

keeps pushing for that. When Daenerys doesn't listen to him, those have

doesn't listen to him, those have repercussions that we'll see the

repercussions that we'll see the repercussions in the following chapters

repercussions in the following chapters because Daenerys is not using her true

because Daenerys is not using her true power, the dragons. When she gets her

power, the dragons. When she gets her army and she starts, you know, becoming

army and she starts, you know, becoming a conqueror, it's because of her

a conqueror, it's because of her dragons, right? Her dragons allow her to

dragons, right? Her dragons allow her to get the unsto, but now she has no

get the unsto, but now she has no control of them and that is really

control of them and that is really screwing her up because that's her

screwing her up because that's her advantage.

advantage. But outside of that going on, we also

But outside of that going on, we also see a lot of suspicious activity going

see a lot of suspicious activity going on. Dany has had his follow just to see

on. Dany has had his follow just to see what he's up to. And we know from the

what he's up to. And we know from the reports that he has visited all the the

reports that he has visited all the the families at the pyramids and the

families at the pyramids and the killings have stopped. So, how is it

killings have stopped. So, how is it that Hisdar is able to basically quench

that Hisdar is able to basically quench any of these killings going on where

any of these killings going on where Daenerys can't? Because it makes it feel

Daenerys can't? Because it makes it feel like Hizdar has to have some connection

like Hizdar has to have some connection to the sons of the harpy or at least

to the sons of the harpy or at least know of the people that are in charge of

know of the people that are in charge of them. And so if that is the case, Hisdar

them. And so if that is the case, Hisdar comes off as very suspicious. Is Hizdar

comes off as very suspicious. Is Hizdar part of the Sons of the Harpy like many

part of the Sons of the Harpy like many of the characters in Daenerys's council

of the characters in Daenerys's council believes, or is he actually just a

believes, or is he actually just a puppet figure for the Sons of the Harpy?

puppet figure for the Sons of the Harpy? Like they're using him to get what they

Like they're using him to get what they want. So, for instance, if you are

want. So, for instance, if you are somebody that is in the Sons of the

somebody that is in the Sons of the Harpy, if you're the Green Grace, let's

Harpy, if you're the Green Grace, let's say she's the head of the Sons of the

say she's the head of the Sons of the Harpy, which is what I believe,

Harpy, which is what I believe, you're going to want his daughter to

you're going to want his daughter to become king because you want some sort

become king because you want some sort of representation of the customs and the

of representation of the customs and the things that the Marines people, you

things that the Marines people, you know, want, right? Dany is very

know, want, right? Dany is very progressive. She doesn't listen to the

progressive. She doesn't listen to the cultures a lot a lot of the times of

cultures a lot a lot of the times of Marine. And so, you're putting Hizdar on

Marine. And so, you're putting Hizdar on the throne. And so, the only way to do

the throne. And so, the only way to do that is to stop the killings, right? So

that is to stop the killings, right? So once those killings start, you can now

once those killings start, you can now have that influence throughout through

have that influence throughout through Hizdar. And then after that point, if

Hizdar. And then after that point, if Daenerys was to say die, well, Hisdar

Daenerys was to say die, well, Hisdar has already been declared as the king.

has already been declared as the king. And so you can rule through him. And so

And so you can rule through him. And so that that even comes down to later later

that that even comes down to later later on when we see the poison, you know,

on when we see the poison, you know, Locust, those probably were meant to

Locust, those probably were meant to kill Daenerys. And if that was the case,

kill Daenerys. And if that was the case, his Dar would have become the king.

his Dar would have become the king. There's a lot of that going on right

There's a lot of that going on right now. There's a lot of like suspicious

now. There's a lot of like suspicious politics going on building up for the

politics going on building up for the kind of the last stretch of the book.

kind of the last stretch of the book. But we also find out about what is going

But we also find out about what is going on at Astapore, right? And we saw with

on at Astapore, right? And we saw with the last chapter of Quentyn what was

the last chapter of Quentyn what was going on there. But one of the reasons I

going on there. But one of the reasons I don't think that chapter is even

don't think that chapter is even necessary is because Daenerys hears all

necessary is because Daenerys hears all of it in the next coming chapters. And

of it in the next coming chapters. And so it feels like that was kind of a

so it feels like that was kind of a waste of time. It didn't really

waste of time. It didn't really establish anything. And even when you

establish anything. And even when you think about that Quentyn is given to get

think about that Quentyn is given to get to Daenerys, that's also kind of

to Daenerys, that's also kind of basically described to Daenerys by

basically described to Daenerys by Daario. It's just not very needed. But

Daario. It's just not very needed. But here she finds out what is going on. on

here she finds out what is going on. on how there's a bunch of refugees coming

how there's a bunch of refugees coming to Marine that Astapore was basically

to Marine that Astapore was basically sacked and many people died and were

sacked and many people died and were killed and just the horrors of of the

killed and just the horrors of of the Astapori of the sack of Astapore. These

Astapori of the sack of Astapore. These refugees who Daenerys feels very bad for

refugees who Daenerys feels very bad for of course these are her people

of course these are her people they are carrying a disease and that is

they are carrying a disease and that is the first issue that Dany has to deal

the first issue that Dany has to deal with. It'll become more apparent in the

with. It'll become more apparent in the next chapter but what is Daenerys

next chapter but what is Daenerys supposed to do? She's helpless. She

supposed to do? She's helpless. She can't face the Yung Kai in open battle

can't face the Yung Kai in open battle because if she does so, she has to rely

because if she does so, she has to rely on the brazen beasts to keep the city.

on the brazen beasts to keep the city. And who's to say they don't just close

And who's to say they don't just close the gates and start ruling over Marine?

the gates and start ruling over Marine? She can't trust them. And so, it's

She can't trust them. And so, it's Daenerys being backed into a corner. She

Daenerys being backed into a corner. She can't break the blockade without her

can't break the blockade without her dragons. She can't meet the Yai who are

dragons. She can't meet the Yai who are coming to Meereen

coming to Meereen in open battle. And she also can't even

in open battle. And she also can't even help these refugees at all. She doesn't

help these refugees at all. She doesn't have enough food to even support

have enough food to even support Meereen. If you open your gates to these

Meereen. If you open your gates to these refugees, that's that whole disease is

refugees, that's that whole disease is just going to carry throughout the city

just going to carry throughout the city and then bam, you're going to be not

and then bam, you're going to be not only are you going to be starving

only are you going to be starving because you don't have enough food, but

because you don't have enough food, but you're also going to have people that

you're also going to have people that are going to be sick and ill. And that's

are going to be sick and ill. And that's when the people turn against you. And so

when the people turn against you. And so Daenerys is kind of forced into an

Daenerys is kind of forced into an action. She doesn't want to marry

action. She doesn't want to marry Hisdar, but it seems like the only

Hisdar, but it seems like the only action she can do. She sets aside her

action she can do. She sets aside her own personal wants and does what she

own personal wants and does what she thinks is best for the city. because if

thinks is best for the city. because if Hizdnar is able to bring is able to give

Hizdnar is able to bring is able to give her peace, then that's something that

her peace, then that's something that she has to do to try and save her

she has to do to try and save her people. So, I really like this chapter

people. So, I really like this chapter from Daenerys, even though I don't think

from Daenerys, even though I don't think it's like anything crazy, I think it

it's like anything crazy, I think it really puts to the test how Daenerys is

really puts to the test how Daenerys is failing in her rulership and how she is

failing in her rulership and how she is as a person. She wants to help people,

as a person. She wants to help people, but she doesn't really know how to do

but she doesn't really know how to do that. She doesn't know how to rule. And

that. She doesn't know how to rule. And so, she see thinks that the way that she

so, she see thinks that the way that she can rule will be with getting Hizdar,

can rule will be with getting Hizdar, right? Appeasing people to then bring

right? Appeasing people to then bring everyone together. And that gets us to

everyone together. And that gets us to number 32, Mel. So, this chapter to me

number 32, Mel. So, this chapter to me is probably the biggest shock to me. I

is probably the biggest shock to me. I remember reading A Dance Dragons for the

remember reading A Dance Dragons for the first time and seeing this chapter. And

first time and seeing this chapter. And this chapter really is weird to me

this chapter really is weird to me because you never would have thought

because you never would have thought George would have given Mill a chapter

George would have given Mill a chapter because she's kind of like a mysterious

because she's kind of like a mysterious type of character who has a lot of

type of character who has a lot of information that we the audience don't

information that we the audience don't know. So, like for instance, it would be

know. So, like for instance, it would be weird if we ever got like a Varys or

weird if we ever got like a Varys or Littlefinger chapter because you would

Littlefinger chapter because you would have basically all their plans in their

have basically all their plans in their head. And so how would you even do that?

head. And so how would you even do that? And so George kind of navigates that

And so George kind of navigates that with Mel and some a chapter that I could

with Mel and some a chapter that I could have seen going very wrong for him

have seen going very wrong for him actually goes quite right. I I think

actually goes quite right. I I think this is a chapter that has a lot of

this is a chapter that has a lot of different functions for George. One

different functions for George. One George I think wanted to explore the

George I think wanted to explore the magic of Ror and the red god more. But

magic of Ror and the red god more. But how is he going to do that? There's not

how is he going to do that? There's not a lot of characters that are able to get

a lot of characters that are able to get kind of close to that and un and finding

kind of close to that and un and finding more out about the red god. And we see a

more out about the red god. And we see a little bit of it happen in two different

little bit of it happen in two different storylines in this book. One with kind

storylines in this book. One with kind of Tyrion and Victarion with Mquaro and

of Tyrion and Victarion with Mquaro and then also here with Mel. And this

then also here with Mel. And this chapter also serves another function

chapter also serves another function because if you think about it right, the

because if you think about it right, the wall right now has two POVs, right? It

wall right now has two POVs, right? It has Jon and Mel. But the thing is by the

has Jon and Mel. But the thing is by the end of this book, Jon is going to die.

end of this book, Jon is going to die. And so if you're George and you are

And so if you're George and you are going to have Jon come back, and even if

going to have Jon come back, and even if you aren't, you have to have some other

you aren't, you have to have some other POV take over the wall, right? as their

POV take over the wall, right? as their as our eyes into what's occurring there.

as our eyes into what's occurring there. And so it actually makes a lot of sense

And so it actually makes a lot of sense that he makes Mel a POV here because

that he makes Mel a POV here because he's going to need her to basically

he's going to need her to basically carry the wall plot until Jon gets back.

carry the wall plot until Jon gets back. But again, I really do like this

But again, I really do like this chapter. It shows us how difficult Mel's

chapter. It shows us how difficult Mel's magic is to her and how it's giving her

magic is to her and how it's giving her pain and being harmful to do sometimes,

pain and being harmful to do sometimes, but she makes it look easy. Something

but she makes it look easy. Something that we've thought about the entire

that we've thought about the entire series, like how does Mel's magic work?

series, like how does Mel's magic work? It seems very, you know, easy for her to

It seems very, you know, easy for her to do, but it's not. And a lot of her stuff

do, but it's not. And a lot of her stuff is sometimes it's interpretation with

is sometimes it's interpretation with her visions and other stuff it's just

her visions and other stuff it's just tricks. So we see kind of what Mel is

tricks. So we see kind of what Mel is doing and how she's able to play this

doing and how she's able to play this role of this powerful but yet scary

role of this powerful but yet scary sorcerer or priestess that Mel is. We

sorcerer or priestess that Mel is. We see her looking for visions as she seems

see her looking for visions as she seems to see hard maybe dragons and I the eye

to see hard maybe dragons and I the eye is rangers again Alice Karstark who she

is rangers again Alice Karstark who she believes is Arya and she sees Jon's

believes is Arya and she sees Jon's danger. And that's the biggest thing

danger. And that's the biggest thing here, right? Is that Jon is basically

here, right? Is that Jon is basically being surrounded by death. It seems to

being surrounded by death. It seems to be coming for him, but Jon won't listen

be coming for him, but Jon won't listen to Mel. And that is supposed to be our

to Mel. And that is supposed to be our warning to his death. Kind of like all

warning to his death. Kind of like all the the subtle ways George say

the the subtle ways George say foreshadowed the Red Wedding. We see her

foreshadowed the Red Wedding. We see her even doing a kindness for Davos, keeping

even doing a kindness for Davos, keeping his son actually close to her so that he

his son actually close to her so that he wouldn't have to go off to march in war

wouldn't have to go off to march in war and this horrible thing that Stannis is

and this horrible thing that Stannis is dealing with right now that we'll see in

dealing with right now that we'll see in the next Asha chapter, probably in the

the next Asha chapter, probably in the next part of the series. Uh, with, you

next part of the series. Uh, with, you know, them and this blizzard and this

know, them and this blizzard and this storm and people dying because of the

storm and people dying because of the cold or from starvation, all these

cold or from starvation, all these different things. She has saved him from

different things. She has saved him from that even though Davos's son probably

that even though Davos's son probably won't thank her for it. But it's also

won't thank her for it. But it's also going to be a big reveal is that

going to be a big reveal is that Rattleshirt is not actually Rattleshirt.

Rattleshirt is not actually Rattleshirt. He's actually Mans Raider. Now, we don't

He's actually Mans Raider. Now, we don't get that till the very end of the

get that till the very end of the chapter. But it's important because she

chapter. But it's important because she basically calls for Rattleshirt to

basically calls for Rattleshirt to basically discuss some things about Arya

basically discuss some things about Arya and she hears the horn and it's once

and she hears the horn and it's once again like she sees in the visions and

again like she sees in the visions and like what she saw and like what she told

like what she saw and like what she told Jon that these three eyeless you know

Jon that these three eyeless you know rangers come back to them right on and

rangers come back to them right on and their heads basically on spikes. And so

their heads basically on spikes. And so it's Mel now having an inn with Jon

it's Mel now having an inn with Jon because her visions now are true. You

because her visions now are true. You have if you're Jon you can't question

have if you're Jon you can't question it, right? She's predicted something

it, right? She's predicted something that is pretty unpredictable. And so Jon

that is pretty unpredictable. And so Jon is now forced to listen to Mel. And the

is now forced to listen to Mel. And the two go to talk in her corners when it's

two go to talk in her corners when it's revealed. Mel basically again trying to

revealed. Mel basically again trying to gain Jon's trust because she's like,

gain Jon's trust because she's like, "Hey, let me send Rattleshirt to go

"Hey, let me send Rattleshirt to go help, you know, Arya because my visions

help, you know, Arya because my visions are real. You now believe that, Jon."

are real. You now believe that, Jon." And Jon, you know, of course, he's not

And Jon, you know, of course, he's not going to trust Rattleshirt. And that's

going to trust Rattleshirt. And that's when the man's reveal happens. And this

when the man's reveal happens. And this is a huge reveal because it kind of

is a huge reveal because it kind of proves something else. If Mel believes

proves something else. If Mel believes right, that it's King's blood that

right, that it's King's blood that matters, right? Why does she burn

matters, right? Why does she burn Rattleshirt instead of man's? Mance is a

Rattleshirt instead of man's? Mance is a king. Rattleshirt is not. And so I think

king. Rattleshirt is not. And so I think that's very fascinating. It tells us

that's very fascinating. It tells us more that it's not doesn't have doesn't

more that it's not doesn't have doesn't really have anything to do with King's

really have anything to do with King's blood. It has something to do with

blood. It has something to do with actually blood, you know, blood

actually blood, you know, blood sacrifices and those types of things.

sacrifices and those types of things. But it also makes us question if this is

But it also makes us question if this is the case, why does Mel believe Stannis

the case, why does Mel believe Stannis is Zorah? She knows Lightbringer is not

is Zorah? She knows Lightbringer is not the true Lightbringer. It doesn't

the true Lightbringer. It doesn't produce heat like Aean said. And she

produce heat like Aean said. And she also does these trickery things to

also does these trickery things to basically fool people. Why does she

basically fool people. Why does she believe in in Stannis? Right? That's the

believe in in Stannis? Right? That's the one thing I think is fascinating about

one thing I think is fascinating about this chapter. But basically, the end of

this chapter. But basically, the end of it is just she gains Jon's trust to send

it is just she gains Jon's trust to send Mance and some spear wives to go save

Mance and some spear wives to go save Arion.

Arion. But I think the thing that's even more

But I think the thing that's even more interesting is when you see that Mance

interesting is when you see that Mance actually does arrive for Arya's wedding,

actually does arrive for Arya's wedding, it kind of disproves the vision that Mel

it kind of disproves the vision that Mel believes she's having because Arya, why

believes she's having because Arya, why would she be fleeing on a horse if she's

would she be fleeing on a horse if she's already at this wedding and already

already at this wedding and already Mance is there and all of those things.

Mance is there and all of those things. It kind of makes that not that vision

It kind of makes that not that vision not be true. But Mel doesn't know that.

not be true. But Mel doesn't know that. Again, it's hard to interpret these

Again, it's hard to interpret these things. We know it's actually end up

things. We know it's actually end up being Alice Karstark. But that'll get us

being Alice Karstark. But that'll get us to chapter 33. And that gets us to Theon

to chapter 33. And that gets us to Theon 3. So Theon 3 to me is weird because of

3. So Theon 3 to me is weird because of all the POVs, Theon is the one that I

all the POVs, Theon is the one that I think every single chapter, he just gets

think every single chapter, he just gets better. Each chapter that goes by

better. Each chapter that goes by improves and is more interesting than

improves and is more interesting than the last. And Theon 3 is no different.

the last. And Theon 3 is no different. As we see Ramsay and his boys coming

As we see Ramsay and his boys coming back to Barrow Town, who went out

back to Barrow Town, who went out searching for the missing bra that were

searching for the missing bra that were with Wyman and it seems very suspicious,

with Wyman and it seems very suspicious, right? Of course, the phrase are the

right? Of course, the phrase are the ones that go missing and Wyron Manderly

ones that go missing and Wyron Manderly would have a lot of issues with the

would have a lot of issues with the phrase, but Theon is scared because

phrase, but Theon is scared because Ramsay didn't find the phrase, and that

Ramsay didn't find the phrase, and that would mean he failed his hunt. He would

would mean he failed his hunt. He would want to hurt someone. And Theon knows

want to hurt someone. And Theon knows more than likely that will be him. Now,

more than likely that will be him. Now, Theon Theon does realize that Ramsay has

Theon Theon does realize that Ramsay has to be a little bit more discreet because

to be a little bit more discreet because they are in Barrow Town. He can't be

they are in Barrow Town. He can't be flaunting his cruelty and things like

flaunting his cruelty and things like that. But still, Theon is a bit on edge

that. But still, Theon is a bit on edge and scared. We even see that Ramsay

and scared. We even see that Ramsay killed a man just for calling him a

killed a man just for calling him a snow. It shows you how insecure Ramsay

snow. It shows you how insecure Ramsay is and petty and how cruel he is. But

is and petty and how cruel he is. But that leads us to a feast that is held as

that leads us to a feast that is held as Theon doesn't get any of the perks of

Theon doesn't get any of the perks of being at this feast. He's chained to a

being at this feast. He's chained to a wall to watch basically and getting any

wall to watch basically and getting any types of maybe scraps like a dog or

types of maybe scraps like a dog or maybe even less than a dog. Theon must

maybe even less than a dog. Theon must watch all of the festivities, but this

watch all of the festivities, but this is all interrupted when Roose Bolton

is all interrupted when Roose Bolton comes into the hall. And Roose and

comes into the hall. And Roose and Ramsay, I think their discussion is

Ramsay, I think their discussion is fascinating

fascinating because it's really Roose telling Ramsay

because it's really Roose telling Ramsay how fragile their rule over the North

how fragile their rule over the North truly is. Most of the North hates them.

truly is. Most of the North hates them. Again, they betrayed Rob Stark, the king

Again, they betrayed Rob Stark, the king that they all seemed to like. And not

that they all seemed to like. And not only that, but Ramsay's actual character

only that, but Ramsay's actual character is not very liked either. He's already

is not very liked either. He's already been shown to be a horrible person.

been shown to be a horrible person. There's all been all these rumors about

There's all been all these rumors about him. And the way he holds himself is

him. And the way he holds himself is also not great. And the way Ramsay is

also not great. And the way Ramsay is kind of using only fear, right? He's not

kind of using only fear, right? He's not understanding how you balance those

understanding how you balance those things. And Ruse is basically putting

things. And Ruse is basically putting Ramsay into his place this whole time.

Ramsay into his place this whole time. And I find it so interesting because up

And I find it so interesting because up to this point, we've kind of only seen

to this point, we've kind of only seen Ramsay being f being fully free to do

Ramsay being f being fully free to do whatever he wants, right? That's kind of

whatever he wants, right? That's kind of what Theon worries so much about. But

what Theon worries so much about. But here's somebody else that checks

here's somebody else that checks Ramsay's power. And it's something that

Ramsay's power. And it's something that could maybe lead to Ramsay killing Roose

could maybe lead to Ramsay killing Roose or Roose killing Ramsay. It's very

or Roose killing Ramsay. It's very interesting to think who is going to win

interesting to think who is going to win out because it's kind of gone back and

out because it's kind of gone back and forth. But they also speak about how

forth. But they also speak about how Stannis is also coming coming to try and

Stannis is also coming coming to try and get rid of their claim because of what

get rid of their claim because of what they've done. And Stannis is gaining

they've done. And Stannis is gaining support, not losing it. At this time,

support, not losing it. At this time, Stannis looks really good. He seems to

Stannis looks really good. He seems to have about 5,000 men with more men

have about 5,000 men with more men supposed to meet him basically when they

supposed to meet him basically when they go to Winterfell. So, so Roose's

go to Winterfell. So, so Roose's position is not looking great, but then

position is not looking great, but then something else shockingly happens.

something else shockingly happens. Theon, who's just been allowed to watch

Theon, who's just been allowed to watch this whole conversation,

this whole conversation, is actually wanted for. Now, Ramsay

is actually wanted for. Now, Ramsay basically threatens Theon to not say

basically threatens Theon to not say anything and all those things and

anything and all those things and basically be a spy. And Roose knows

basically be a spy. And Roose knows those things. Roose is not stupid. Roose

those things. Roose is not stupid. Roose seems to be nice to Theon, which is

seems to be nice to Theon, which is quite weird, right? He talks to Theon as

quite weird, right? He talks to Theon as if he actually cares, if he wants new

if he actually cares, if he wants new clothes or things like that, and he kind

clothes or things like that, and he kind of apologizes for Ramsay's behavior. It

of apologizes for Ramsay's behavior. It doesn't seem right. This isn't the

doesn't seem right. This isn't the character of Roose Bolton that we know.

character of Roose Bolton that we know. And Theon himself kind of thinks already

And Theon himself kind of thinks already that this is a trap. Roose is using him

that this is a trap. Roose is using him for something, but he just doesn't know

for something, but he just doesn't know what that is yet. And Theon's 100%

what that is yet. And Theon's 100% right. Roose is trying to get Theon to

right. Roose is trying to get Theon to play a role to play Theon again to give

play a role to play Theon again to give away Arya at Ramsay's wedding because

away Arya at Ramsay's wedding because that's going to give Arya a lot of

that's going to give Arya a lot of legitimacy. If Theon, somebody that knew

legitimacy. If Theon, somebody that knew her really well, is able is saying

her really well, is able is saying publicly or basically being shown as

publicly or basically being shown as publicly accepting that this is Arya

publicly accepting that this is Arya Stark, it gives the Boltons a lot of

Stark, it gives the Boltons a lot of legitimacy. And that's the game that

legitimacy. And that's the game that Roose is playing. But Roose even goes

Roose is playing. But Roose even goes further talking about the backstory of

further talking about the backstory of not only the first Reek, but also Ramsay

not only the first Reek, but also Ramsay himself. And so we get some of the great

himself. And so we get some of the great conversation between it's mainly Roose

conversation between it's mainly Roose talking to Theon, but you know that some

talking to Theon, but you know that some of that back and forth is very

of that back and forth is very fascinating. And when you get to the

fascinating. And when you get to the final part of this where Barbar Dustin,

final part of this where Barbar Dustin, you know, sees Theon because they're

you know, sees Theon because they're basically going to, you know, see her,

basically going to, you know, see her, she is like shocked at him, right? He

she is like shocked at him, right? He seems to be gone half mad and he doesn't

seems to be gone half mad and he doesn't look like Theon at all, right? People

look like Theon at all, right? People that used to know Theon wouldn't even

that used to know Theon wouldn't even think that this is Theon. Think about

think that this is Theon. Think about Theon one or I guess, you know, Reek

Theon one or I guess, you know, Reek one, but I'm just going to call it

one, but I'm just going to call it Theon. They don't even recognize him in

Theon. They don't even recognize him in that chapter. And that's kind of what we

that chapter. And that's kind of what we see. It's it's Theon being groomed into

see. It's it's Theon being groomed into a role to give away Arya to Ramsay and

a role to give away Arya to Ramsay and that psychological damage that's been

that psychological damage that's been placed there by Ramsay upon Theon.

placed there by Ramsay upon Theon. Really great chapter and again I think

Really great chapter and again I think he only improves through pretty much

he only improves through pretty much each and every chapter. And that gets us

each and every chapter. And that gets us into chapter 34. Chapter 34, which is

into chapter 34. Chapter 34, which is Tyrion 8 to me, is a chapter where not

Tyrion 8 to me, is a chapter where not much happens. It that's that's basically

much happens. It that's that's basically the way I'll sum it up. It's like a

the way I'll sum it up. It's like a repeat of like Tyrion with Young Griff

repeat of like Tyrion with Young Griff where they're on the boat pretty much

where they're on the boat pretty much the entire chapter. But at least in that

the entire chapter. But at least in that chatter, right, you had interesting

chatter, right, you had interesting things going on. Tyrion trying to figure

things going on. Tyrion trying to figure out who all these people are and their

out who all these people are and their interesting backstories and some of the

interesting backstories and some of the conversation with those characters.

conversation with those characters. Well, here that's just not the case.

Well, here that's just not the case. There's really a very few amount of

There's really a very few amount of people that even speak the common speech

people that even speak the common speech on this boat that they're on. And of

on this boat that they're on. And of those people, none of them are truly

those people, none of them are truly interesting outside of Mororrow. And so

interesting outside of Mororrow. And so this chapter follows basically two or

this chapter follows basically two or three things. One, Tyrion's relationship

three things. One, Tyrion's relationship with Penny, right? in trying to, you

with Penny, right? in trying to, you know, be friendly with her and make her

know, be friendly with her and make her feel better cuz they basically took

feel better cuz they basically took Penny along with them on this little

Penny along with them on this little boat trip. And that really to me, I

boat trip. And that really to me, I don't really like Penny and Terry's

don't really like Penny and Terry's Penny and Tyrion's dynamic in this book.

Penny and Tyrion's dynamic in this book. It's just to me a lot of fluff. Um

It's just to me a lot of fluff. Um there's not a ton of substance there.

there's not a ton of substance there. It's, you know, one of those things

It's, you know, one of those things where it's like, oh, Tyrion tries to

where it's like, oh, Tyrion tries to speak to Penny. Penny runs away. They

speak to Penny. Penny runs away. They speak again a little bit later and they

speak again a little bit later and they become kind of friends and it's like,

become kind of friends and it's like, eh, I just don't really care that much

eh, I just don't really care that much about it. Now, the interesting part of

about it. Now, the interesting part of this chapter is the Mcquaro stuff. I'm

this chapter is the Mcquaro stuff. I'm learning more about, you know, the about

learning more about, you know, the about Ror and, you know, the visions that he's

Ror and, you know, the visions that he's seeing. And he even has this very

seeing. And he even has this very cryptic line that seems to be about

cryptic line that seems to be about Euron, which I do find quite

Euron, which I do find quite fascinating. And again, I think of

fascinating. And again, I think of really the next two chapters, this one

really the next two chapters, this one and his next one, the only interesting

and his next one, the only interesting part about the chapter is the Mcquaro

part about the chapter is the Mcquaro stuff. And even that Muaro is going to

stuff. And even that Muaro is going to go to Victarion's plot. There's just not

go to Victarion's plot. There's just not a lot going on for Tyrion. Um,

a lot going on for Tyrion. Um, unfortunately, I I don't find much

unfortunately, I I don't find much interesting with the character. I I

interesting with the character. I I think his chapters are just not needed.

think his chapters are just not needed. Like I almost think that you could have

Like I almost think that you could have just gone from after Tyrion 6, you just

just gone from after Tyrion 6, you just basically quickly retell this stuff

basically quickly retell this stuff because again like I've kind of reviewed

because again like I've kind of reviewed for these chapters with Tyrion. There's

for these chapters with Tyrion. There's not much really to say. Um they get on a

not much really to say. Um they get on a boat, they stay on the boat for a while.

boat, they stay on the boat for a while. Tyrion talks to Aquaro and Penny and

Tyrion talks to Aquaro and Penny and that's it. Like that that that's it. It

that's it. Like that that that's it. It seems like why didn't we just pick up

seems like why didn't we just pick up with like maybe Tyrion already in

with like maybe Tyrion already in slavery or whatever? Like we just don't

slavery or whatever? Like we just don't need this chapter and the next chapter.

need this chapter and the next chapter. Like we don't we almost didn't even need

Like we don't we almost didn't even need three of Tyrion's chapters. Like the

three of Tyrion's chapters. Like the three chapters between the young Griff

three chapters between the young Griff stuff and then also becoming

stuff and then also becoming a slave or being sold into slavery.

a slave or being sold into slavery. That stuff like in between just doesn't

That stuff like in between just doesn't do anything. It doesn't really

do anything. It doesn't really particularly matter. But that'll get us

particularly matter. But that'll get us into chapter 35. So again, like I talked

into chapter 35. So again, like I talked about Tyrion's chapter, which again is

about Tyrion's chapter, which again is not a very good one in my opinion. It's

not a very good one in my opinion. It's very much look it's very much in the

very much look it's very much in the bottom like five chapters so far of the

bottom like five chapters so far of the book. It's placed between a really good

book. It's placed between a really good Theon chapter and placed between a

Theon chapter and placed between a really good Bran chapter. Again, I just

really good Bran chapter. Again, I just think George knows those things when he

think George knows those things when he has weaker and really good chapters. So

has weaker and really good chapters. So this is the end of Bran's actual journey

this is the end of Bran's actual journey within the story that we have right now

within the story that we have right now until Winds of Winter comes out. This is

until Winds of Winter comes out. This is the last chapter we have of Bran and it

the last chapter we have of Bran and it basically follows the and it basically

basically follows the and it basically fulfills in my opinion all of Bran's arc

fulfills in my opinion all of Bran's arc up to now, right? It's him finally

up to now, right? It's him finally awakening his powers and becoming

awakening his powers and becoming somewhat of e the three-eyed crow's

somewhat of e the three-eyed crow's apprentice or possibly maybe the

apprentice or possibly maybe the three-eyed crow in the in the future or

three-eyed crow in the in the future or whatever you want to say, right? But I

whatever you want to say, right? But I never thought I'd ever say this in a

never thought I'd ever say this in a book, but Bran is significantly better

book, but Bran is significantly better than Tyrion. This chapter is

than Tyrion. This chapter is fascinating, right? As Tyrion is, you

fascinating, right? As Tyrion is, you know, warging into Hodor and forcing his

know, warging into Hodor and forcing his will upon Hodor, he's in summer and he's

will upon Hodor, he's in summer and he's exploring these caves and the deep

exploring these caves and the deep places of the children of the forest and

places of the children of the forest and learning a bit more about them. But at

learning a bit more about them. But at the same time, even though they've

the same time, even though they've escaped, you know, the perils of their

escaped, you know, the perils of their journey, Jojan seems to becoming sadder

journey, Jojan seems to becoming sadder and sadder. It seems like he knows

and sadder. It seems like he knows something about his fate is to come. And

something about his fate is to come. And I've kind of talked about a lot of the

I've kind of talked about a lot of the hints. So, I've done multiple Jojan

hints. So, I've done multiple Jojan paste videos. I think the best one I've

paste videos. I think the best one I've probably done was last year when we did

probably done was last year when we did the 25 wins of winter theories um or

the 25 wins of winter theories um or some of the more popular theories. I

some of the more popular theories. I think it's pretty set in stone that

think it's pretty set in stone that Jojan became Jojan paste. This blood

Jojan became Jojan paste. This blood paste that Bran is forced to consume

paste that Bran is forced to consume more or less. And I really do think it's

more or less. And I really do think it's more like a blood sacrifice with the

more like a blood sacrifice with the power and the blood of Jojan awakens

power and the blood of Jojan awakens Bran's basically his third eye more or

Bran's basically his third eye more or less and becomes, you know, of someone

less and becomes, you know, of someone be able to see. As Bran drinks this

be able to see. As Bran drinks this blood paste, it begins to show him

blood paste, it begins to show him visions and he sees a bunch of things

visions and he sees a bunch of things through the godswood and the tree that

through the godswood and the tree that we talk about. I even referenced this in

we talk about. I even referenced this in my reread of Game of Thrones with

my reread of Game of Thrones with Callen's first chapter where she thinks

Callen's first chapter where she thinks that the basically the tree the heart

that the basically the tree the heart tree is basically following her. It's

tree is basically following her. It's its eyes seem to be watching her. That

its eyes seem to be watching her. That seems apparent here with Bran because

seems apparent here with Bran because Bran sees a number of things. He sees a

Bran sees a number of things. He sees a vision of Ned. It seems like right after

vision of Ned. It seems like right after Robert's rebellion um talking about how

Robert's rebellion um talking about how you know Jon and Ned hope Jon and Robin

you know Jon and Ned hope Jon and Robin helping them to grow up as like brothers

helping them to grow up as like brothers and things like that. We also see again

and things like that. We also see again we don't know confirmed uh who these

we don't know confirmed uh who these people are but in the vision it seems

people are but in the vision it seems like we see Lyanna and Benjen playing um

like we see Lyanna and Benjen playing um at the pool. We see some other stuff,

at the pool. We see some other stuff, right? There's there's some other stuff

right? There's there's some other stuff um like a pregnant woman coming out of

um like a pregnant woman coming out of the pool past Starks, which I think is

the pool past Starks, which I think is really interesting. But it goes to show

really interesting. But it goes to show that Brain is connected to a place of

that Brain is connected to a place of home of, you know, his interest and his

home of, you know, his interest and his emotion. And Blood Raven sees that right

emotion. And Blood Raven sees that right away because he himself is drawn to his

away because he himself is drawn to his past. And he gives one of the most

past. And he gives one of the most famous lines of this book and, you know,

famous lines of this book and, you know, trying to speculate on, you know, him as

trying to speculate on, you know, him as a character during the first Blackfire

a character during the first Blackfire Rebellion. He talks about how he had a

Rebellion. He talks about how he had a brother he loved, a brother he hated,

brother he loved, a brother he hated, and a woman he desired. Two of these are

and a woman he desired. Two of these are quite obvious as it's Shier Seaar and

quite obvious as it's Shier Seaar and Aigor in terms of the brother he hated

Aigor in terms of the brother he hated and the woman he desired. But the

and the woman he desired. But the brother he loved is left up to

brother he loved is left up to interpretation. I personally really

interpretation. I personally really subscribe to the theory that that is

subscribe to the theory that that is actually Damon Blackfire. That's the

actually Damon Blackfire. That's the person he loved, but this could also be

person he loved, but this could also be Daron, of course. But to me, I think

Daron, of course. But to me, I think it'd be really cool if it was actually

it'd be really cool if it was actually Dam and Blackfire. But at this point,

Dam and Blackfire. But at this point, the story kind of ends for Bran. He

the story kind of ends for Bran. He doesn't get another chapter in this

doesn't get another chapter in this book, which I think is a shame. Uh I

book, which I think is a shame. Uh I know why though. I think George is going

know why though. I think George is going for this kind of similar to Arya and

for this kind of similar to Arya and Sansa route of the character just needs

Sansa route of the character just needs to have a lot of time offscreen to be

to have a lot of time offscreen to be developing and learning. And so that

developing and learning. And so that when we come back to the character in

when we come back to the character in Winds of Winter, he's probably going to

Winds of Winter, he's probably going to be a very changed character. Not to say

be a very changed character. Not to say he's going to be like a robot like he

he's going to be like a robot like he was in the show, but he might not be as

was in the show, but he might not be as maybe human or might not be as much of

maybe human or might not be as much of Bran as he used to be because of these

Bran as he used to be because of these visions and all these things he's seeing

visions and all these things he's seeing and the knowledge that he may now know.

and the knowledge that he may now know. But that gets us to chapter 36, John 7.

But that gets us to chapter 36, John 7. And I I do want to say, you know, Bran,

And I I do want to say, you know, Bran, this is probably his best book. Even

this is probably his best book. Even though this is probably even though this

though this is probably even though this is the book that he's in with the least

is the book that he's in with the least amount of chapters, I think he's really

amount of chapters, I think he's really good in this book. And I wish we got a

good in this book. And I wish we got a little bit more of him. I wish we got

little bit more of him. I wish we got like one or two more chapters, but we'll

like one or two more chapters, but we'll have to wait until winds of winter. So,

have to wait until winds of winter. So, getting into John's 7. Again, this is

getting into John's 7. Again, this is just another one of those chapters that

just another one of those chapters that it's just in the middle of John's arc.

it's just in the middle of John's arc. It's building things to come for later

It's building things to come for later on. Not much really happens. It's Jon

on. Not much really happens. It's Jon going ranging with some new recruits who

going ranging with some new recruits who are going to say their vows at the for

are going to say their vows at the for the old with the old gods. It's the same

the old with the old gods. It's the same thing that Jon and Sam do in book one,

thing that Jon and Sam do in book one, but it seems a bit more risky now,

but it seems a bit more risky now, right? You just have this wildling

right? You just have this wildling attack on the wall. The others are

attack on the wall. The others are becoming more and more prominent. It

becoming more and more prominent. It seems a very dangerous mission to say

seems a very dangerous mission to say some vows. But John rightly so says, you

some vows. But John rightly so says, you know, these men are swearing their lives

know, these men are swearing their lives to the wall. I will go with them, right?

to the wall. I will go with them, right? It's a very important thing for them to

It's a very important thing for them to see me there. And I think that's a

see me there. And I think that's a really good moment from John. But

really good moment from John. But outside of that, like there'sn't much

outside of that, like there'sn't much happening, right? You have one thing

happening, right? You have one thing where Jon is trying to reopen some of

where Jon is trying to reopen some of the castles, and he's going to have one

the castles, and he's going to have one where it's basically all females. That's

where it's basically all females. That's going to be all the spear wives and

going to be all the spear wives and things. That's going to be led by Iron

things. That's going to be led by Iron EMTT and Dolores Ed, which to me is

EMTT and Dolores Ed, which to me is another kind of mistake. I know why he's

another kind of mistake. I know why he's doing it because he needs men he can

doing it because he needs men he can trust to overlook the new castles and

trust to overlook the new castles and especially with a castle full of women,

especially with a castle full of women, but at the same time, he's taking, in my

but at the same time, he's taking, in my opinion, two of his last like real loyal

opinion, two of his last like real loyal supporters and doing away with them,

supporters and doing away with them, right? so that he is slowly and slowly

right? so that he is slowly and slowly isolating himself even more. But upon

isolating himself even more. But upon arrival, they find a group of wildlings

arrival, they find a group of wildlings and a giant and they actually go end up

and a giant and they actually go end up surrounding them just in case, you know,

surrounding them just in case, you know, they're going to have to attack them.

they're going to have to attack them. But we have this weird moment of peace.

But we have this weird moment of peace. You know, these wildlings and this

You know, these wildlings and this giant, they're basically dying. They

giant, they're basically dying. They have no food left. They have no hope of

have no food left. They have no hope of getting, you know, south of the wall.

getting, you know, south of the wall. They won't be able to make it to hard.

They won't be able to make it to hard. They're dying. And so John after hearing

They're dying. And so John after hearing these vows decides that he should help

these vows decides that he should help these wildlings as well. They are men.

these wildlings as well. They are men. They they are human. They should defend

They they are human. They should defend them as well. And and they basically are

them as well. And and they basically are deciding to let them come with them

deciding to let them come with them through the wall. But not only does he

through the wall. But not only does he allow wildlings through the wall, he

allow wildlings through the wall, he also brings two of the bodies of the

also brings two of the bodies of the wildlings with them. He wants to study

wildlings with them. He wants to study them to see if, you know, if the others

them to see if, you know, if the others are able to come back or not and what

are able to come back or not and what that means. But the problem I once again

that means. But the problem I once again have with Jon, and this has been a

have with Jon, and this has been a prominent theme throughout the entire

prominent theme throughout the entire story for Jon, is he just doesn't

story for Jon, is he just doesn't communicate things well. And don't get

communicate things well. And don't get me wrong, he is the Lord Commander. He

me wrong, he is the Lord Commander. He doesn't have to tell everybody

doesn't have to tell everybody everything.

everything. But when you're bringing two dead bodies

But when you're bringing two dead bodies south of the from from north of the wall

south of the from from north of the wall to the south,

to the south, it's a little weird. Like, and he

it's a little weird. Like, and he doesn't really explain that to the

doesn't really explain that to the people. Maybe he explains that to like

people. Maybe he explains that to like Bow and Marsh or whatever. But if you're

Bow and Marsh or whatever. But if you're an average Nights Watchman and you're

an average Nights Watchman and you're seeing this and you're going, "Huh,

seeing this and you're going, "Huh, where we brought back some wildlings and

where we brought back some wildlings and a giant people that we've been against

a giant people that we've been against and fought against forever and you're

and fought against forever and you're bringing back two dead bodies." It's

bringing back two dead bodies." It's just a weird look for Jon and he doesn't

just a weird look for Jon and he doesn't help himself. And that's what I just uh

help himself. And that's what I just uh it's so frustrating to read Jon

it's so frustrating to read Jon sometimes because he does not express

sometimes because he does not express why he does things. And so you're

why he does things. And so you're leaving it up to, you know, rumors and

leaving it up to, you know, rumors and what people think Jon may be thinking.

what people think Jon may be thinking. And that's what a lot, I think, leads to

And that's what a lot, I think, leads to his death. But that is not exactly the

his death. But that is not exactly the end of it either. As he as he hears news

end of it either. As he as he hears news of Stannis's conquest, as his army is

of Stannis's conquest, as his army is growing, but he wonders if Winterfell is

growing, but he wonders if Winterfell is a trap for Stannis, which it is, right?

a trap for Stannis, which it is, right? We know that that is the case. It is a

We know that that is the case. It is a trap because the Boltons are going to

trap because the Boltons are going to get to go to a defensible position.

get to go to a defensible position. They're going to have more food and

They're going to have more food and ration than Stannis. stand. So we have

ration than Stannis. stand. So we have to siege them and be outside of the

to siege them and be outside of the wall. And we also know and we also know

wall. And we also know and we also know that he is going to be betrayed by the

that he is going to be betrayed by the carstark coming here as well. So yes,

carstark coming here as well. So yes, Jon is quite right. And also Arya isn't

Jon is quite right. And also Arya isn't the real Arya, but that doesn't matter

the real Arya, but that doesn't matter to Stannis. He doesn't know that

to Stannis. He doesn't know that information. And the mountain clans that

information. And the mountain clans that he has with him, they are going to want

he has with him, they are going to want to save Arya. And that's going to force

to save Arya. And that's going to force Stannis's hand. He has to go to

Stannis's hand. He has to go to Winterfell. He can't just allow this

Winterfell. He can't just allow this marriage and all this stuff to actually

marriage and all this stuff to actually happen. That gets us to chapter 37,

happen. That gets us to chapter 37, Danny 6. I really like the opening of

Danny 6. I really like the opening of this chapter, but I don't like the end.

this chapter, but I don't like the end. And so, we'll talk about it. There's

And so, we'll talk about it. There's there's two parts of this chapter. And

there's two parts of this chapter. And it's weird to me because it's the main

it's weird to me because it's the main two like I think conflicting forces of

two like I think conflicting forces of of why I like and don't like Daenerys in

of why I like and don't like Daenerys in this book because part of it is the side

this book because part of it is the side of her trying to rule, right? It's her

of her trying to rule, right? It's her trying to save people, but she doesn't

trying to save people, but she doesn't know how to do that. And so it's her

know how to do that. And so it's her inspecting, you know, the refugees and

inspecting, you know, the refugees and the horror that this war has created.

the horror that this war has created. You know, people are left dying outside

You know, people are left dying outside of Marine. These Ato refugees, they're,

of Marine. These Ato refugees, they're, you know, going without food and

you know, going without food and supplies and people are too afraid to

supplies and people are too afraid to even, you know, go near them and so

even, you know, go near them and so they're just left to die. Really, it

they're just left to die. Really, it reminds me a lot of one of the Daenerys

reminds me a lot of one of the Daenerys chapters in a Game of Thrones. I believe

chapters in a Game of Thrones. I believe it's Daenerys 7 if I'm not mistaken

it's Daenerys 7 if I'm not mistaken where she's basically seeing all these

where she's basically seeing all these people being, you know, sexually abused

people being, you know, sexually abused and and killed by the Dothraki. And

and and killed by the Dothraki. And that's kind of the same idea here. It's

that's kind of the same idea here. It's just it's not it's not because of people

just it's not it's not because of people actually harming them. It's because this

actually harming them. It's because this shortage of food. It's because of, you

shortage of food. It's because of, you know, this disease that has been created

know, this disease that has been created because of war. And it's George really

because of war. And it's George really hammering into us that war, this is what

hammering into us that war, this is what it does to people. And it's Daenerys

it does to people. And it's Daenerys trying to do her best, right? It's her

trying to do her best, right? It's her trying to give these people comfort,

trying to give these people comfort, whether it's just, you know, blessing

whether it's just, you know, blessing them or trying to clean them or, you

them or trying to clean them or, you know, care for them, trying to show that

know, care for them, trying to show that she cares because that's the only thing

she cares because that's the only thing that she can do for them, right? Her men

that she can do for them, right? Her men are too afraid to to bring them food and

are too afraid to to bring them food and all of those things. So, she all she can

all of those things. So, she all she can really do is try to give them attention,

really do is try to give them attention, right? She's helpless to their please uh

right? She's helpless to their please uh for help. She can do really nothing. And

for help. She can do really nothing. And so, that's the part of the chapter I

so, that's the part of the chapter I really do enjoy. I love putting Daenerys

really do enjoy. I love putting Daenerys in the Daenerys in these situations

in the Daenerys in these situations where she doesn't know what she can do.

where she doesn't know what she can do. She feels hopeless. She feels back into

She feels hopeless. She feels back into a corner. That's going to lead to some

a corner. That's going to lead to some interesting, you know, conflicts. The

interesting, you know, conflicts. The part of the chapter I'm not a huge fan

part of the chapter I'm not a huge fan of is the part where it's Daenerys

of is the part where it's Daenerys discussing like marriage traditions with

discussing like marriage traditions with Hizdar and they're at dinner kind of

Hizdar and they're at dinner kind of talking about some of those things. I

talking about some of those things. I don't really like that part of her story

don't really like that part of her story much. I I don't really like Daenerys's

much. I I don't really like Daenerys's kind of romance arcs in this with

kind of romance arcs in this with whether that's with Quentyn, whether

whether that's with Quentyn, whether it's with Daario, whether it's with his

it's with Daario, whether it's with his Dar, just not my favorite thing for

Dar, just not my favorite thing for Daenerys. Um, and that really comes up,

Daenerys. Um, and that really comes up, you know, after this as well because not

you know, after this as well because not only do we get kind of the marriage

only do we get kind of the marriage stuff going on, but after the marriage

stuff going on, but after the marriage stuff, Daario arrives telling her of how

stuff, Daario arrives telling her of how things are going, right? Y Kai is

things are going, right? Y Kai is marching on Meereen. But not only that,

marching on Meereen. But not only that, to Daenerys's heartbreak, Brown Brown

to Daenerys's heartbreak, Brown Brown Ben Plum with the second sons have

Ben Plum with the second sons have actually switched sides. And it's so

actually switched sides. And it's so heartbreaking because Daenerys really

heartbreaking because Daenerys really liked him. And that becomes very

liked him. And that becomes very apparent. She thinks about him during

apparent. She thinks about him during like their council meetings that she

like their council meetings that she really does enjoy him. And to see him

really does enjoy him. And to see him flip on her and it seems to be because

flip on her and it seems to be because she's not using her dragons. Her case is

she's not using her dragons. Her case is looking worse and worse. She not she's

looking worse and worse. She not she's not leaning into being a Targaryen. And

not leaning into being a Targaryen. And so I like that Daenerys I like I really

so I like that Daenerys I like I really like that Daenerys is facing

like that Daenerys is facing consequences for some of the things that

consequences for some of the things that she's done and for not listening to

she's done and for not listening to council. But the chapter ends with her

council. But the chapter ends with her basically having sex with Daario, which

basically having sex with Daario, which is always not my favorite stuff. But

is always not my favorite stuff. But yeah, I think a solid chapter overall.

yeah, I think a solid chapter overall. But for me, like Danny 6 is the most I

But for me, like Danny 6 is the most I don't know how would I say this, the

don't know how would I say this, the most chapter of this book. It has its

most chapter of this book. It has its good things and it also has its bad

good things and it also has its bad things unfortunately. But that'll get us

things unfortunately. But that'll get us into number 38 which is thankfully

into number 38 which is thankfully another Theon chapter. So Theon 4 to me

another Theon chapter. So Theon 4 to me is a very controversial chapter to me.

is a very controversial chapter to me. I'm not even sure how this chapter is

I'm not even sure how this chapter is viewed by most of the A Song of Fire

viewed by most of the A Song of Fire community because it's definitely one of

community because it's definitely one of the darkest chapters in A Song of Fire.

the darkest chapters in A Song of Fire. This chapter is is Jane Pool and

This chapter is is Jane Pool and Ramsay's wedding. So, you already know

Ramsay's wedding. So, you already know where this chapter is kind of going, but

where this chapter is kind of going, but I won't lie. This is definitely one of

I won't lie. This is definitely one of my favorite chapters. And it's weird to

my favorite chapters. And it's weird to me that I say that because of the such a

me that I say that because of the such a controversial ending to the chapter and

controversial ending to the chapter and how horrifying that is. But at the same

how horrifying that is. But at the same time, I'm a big Maester conspiracy fan

time, I'm a big Maester conspiracy fan and I love Barbarie Dustin's speech on

and I love Barbarie Dustin's speech on the maesters and I'm like, I'm right

the maesters and I'm like, I'm right there with you, sis. I agree. Those

there with you, sis. I agree. Those maesters are sus as hell. But let let

maesters are sus as hell. But let let me, you know, chronologically break down

me, you know, chronologically break down this chapter a little bit for you guys.

this chapter a little bit for you guys. Just a lot of things that come to mind

Just a lot of things that come to mind about this chapter that I really do

about this chapter that I really do enjoy. So the first thing I enjoy about

enjoy. So the first thing I enjoy about this is establishing that relation that

this is establishing that relation that relationship between Jane Pool and

relationship between Jane Pool and Theon. You know, her basically pleading

Theon. You know, her basically pleading Theon for help and all these things and

Theon for help and all these things and Theon who is trying to help her by

Theon who is trying to help her by telling her to be Arya, right? Don't let

telling her to be Arya, right? Don't let him don't give him a reason to hurt you.

him don't give him a reason to hurt you. It's right. It's literally Theon who's

It's right. It's literally Theon who's been abused by this person for a long

been abused by this person for a long time now. It's really shows to us kind

time now. It's really shows to us kind of how that abuse has worked and

of how that abuse has worked and psychologically broken Theon, but it's

psychologically broken Theon, but it's also an a very haunting chapter as well.

also an a very haunting chapter as well. This is Theon's first chapter back in

This is Theon's first chapter back in Winterfell. And so, it's a very dark

Winterfell. And so, it's a very dark chapter in terms of what it represents

chapter in terms of what it represents to Theon. So Theon not only has to go

to Theon. So Theon not only has to go back into kind of playing the role of

back into kind of playing the role of Theon, which is already very

Theon, which is already very uncomfortable for him, he has to give

uncomfortable for him, he has to give away Jane Pool. It's basically him

away Jane Pool. It's basically him giving her away to be abused and

giving her away to be abused and tortured the way Theon has been. And

tortured the way Theon has been. And it's just him struggling through that,

it's just him struggling through that, struggling through this mentally,

struggling through this mentally, struggling through it physically as he

struggling through it physically as he tries to make sure he walks straight and

tries to make sure he walks straight and doesn't fall or any of those things

doesn't fall or any of those things because of, you know, his toes being

because of, you know, his toes being taken or whatnot. It's an incredibly

taken or whatnot. It's an incredibly dark chapter, but even more so after the

dark chapter, but even more so after the wedding happens, because it happens, you

wedding happens, because it happens, you know, outside, Theon hears his name,

know, outside, Theon hears his name, seems to be calling for him, trying to

seems to be calling for him, trying to awaken him as being Theon and breaking

awaken him as being Theon and breaking him out of this Greek persona. It seems

him out of this Greek persona. It seems to be in my opinion Bran speaking to him

to be in my opinion Bran speaking to him from the godswood which is very

from the godswood which is very interesting telling us that maybe you

interesting telling us that maybe you know what Brendan Rivers tells Bran that

know what Brendan Rivers tells Bran that he can't change the past maybe not true

he can't change the past maybe not true Bran may be more powerful than Brendan

Bran may be more powerful than Brendan Rivers ever was because he definitely

Rivers ever was because he definitely seems to reach out to Theon or maybe

seems to reach out to Theon or maybe Theon's imagining it but either way it's

Theon's imagining it but either way it's Theon slowly breaking out of this Reek

Theon slowly breaking out of this Reek that that he's been trained to play as

that that he's been trained to play as but we get the feast. And this is where

but we get the feast. And this is where I think the chapter really gets

I think the chapter really gets interesting because on one hand you have

interesting because on one hand you have the Frey pie theory that is prevalent

the Frey pie theory that is prevalent here or why Manly is very excited about

here or why Manly is very excited about these pies and having a lot of servings

these pies and having a lot of servings of pie. And so I really enjoy that part

of pie. And so I really enjoy that part of it. It seems like that Frey pie is

of it. It seems like that Frey pie is happening, but I really enjoy the

happening, but I really enjoy the conversation that Barbarie has with

conversation that Barbarie has with Theon where she's telling him a lot

Theon where she's telling him a lot about her past and her relationship with

about her past and her relationship with Brandon Stark and the reason Ricard

Brandon Stark and the reason Ricard Stark even went south and trying to get

Stark even went south and trying to get these alliances with the South. It's

these alliances with the South. It's really interesting to see the way we

really interesting to see the way we this character was made through those

this character was made through those things and some of the things happening

things and some of the things happening before Robert's rebellion. It's very

before Robert's rebellion. It's very interesting to see those things and I

interesting to see those things and I love all of that. I love the maester

love all of that. I love the maester stuff. And then we get to probably one

stuff. And then we get to probably one of the most horrifying things of this

of the most horrifying things of this chapter. As soon as we read that Theon

chapter. As soon as we read that Theon is called by Ramsay, you can tell where

is called by Ramsay, you can tell where this is going right away because Theon

this is going right away because Theon is forced to, let's just say, get Arya

is forced to, let's just say, get Arya ready for her husband on their bedding

ready for her husband on their bedding ceremony. Let's just put it that way.

ceremony. Let's just put it that way. And it's incredibly difficult to read.

And it's incredibly difficult to read. It's incredibly difficult. Theon having

It's incredibly difficult. Theon having to get Jane ready for Ramsay. It's just

to get Jane ready for Ramsay. It's just psychological torture. It's telling

psychological torture. It's telling Theon that you can't do anything. Theon

Theon that you can't do anything. Theon even has a knife. He could try to attack

even has a knife. He could try to attack Ramsay, but he doesn't. It's just that

Ramsay, but he doesn't. It's just that breaking. It's slowly Theon being broken

breaking. It's slowly Theon being broken down. It's slowly Theon realizing he

down. It's slowly Theon realizing he needs to become Theon again. And so, I

needs to become Theon again. And so, I really like the chapter. I think it's

really like the chapter. I think it's incredibly dark. I know it's a

incredibly dark. I know it's a controversial chapter of this series,

controversial chapter of this series, but I do really like the chapter overall

but I do really like the chapter overall for what it does for the story. And that

for what it does for the story. And that gets us to number 39, Arya. Aryo Hod.

gets us to number 39, Arya. Aryo Hod. And I I mentioned this earlier on in the

And I I mentioned this earlier on in the video, but this is the one and only

video, but this is the one and only Dornish chapter we get. There's no Aron

Dornish chapter we get. There's no Aron chapters in this book. And so this is

chapters in this book. And so this is kind of our update chapter, right? Just

kind of our update chapter, right? Just to kind of tell us what's going on in

to kind of tell us what's going on in Dorne to get us ready for Winds of

Dorne to get us ready for Winds of Winter. And so we see Arya Hoda at the

Winter. And so we see Arya Hoda at the first half of this chapter is all about

first half of this chapter is all about this kind of feast that's taking place

this kind of feast that's taking place where Balon Swan has finally arrived to

where Balon Swan has finally arrived to Sunspear. And now what's going to

Sunspear. And now what's going to happen, right? Balon Swan was sent to

happen, right? Balon Swan was sent to get back Myrrcella. But where is

get back Myrrcella. But where is Myrrcella? And how is Duran going to

Myrrcella? And how is Duran going to spin this tale of what occurred or with

spin this tale of what occurred or with Aron's coup that was trying to put

Aron's coup that was trying to put Myrcella on the throne? What is going to

Myrcella on the throne? What is going to happen there? What is Doran Duran going

happen there? What is Doran Duran going to tell Balon Swan in terms of Aeros

to tell Balon Swan in terms of Aeros Oakart's death and Marcela's kind of

Oakart's death and Marcela's kind of missing ear? What is he going to tell

missing ear? What is he going to tell him? And so the whole thing plays out as

him? And so the whole thing plays out as kind of just a performance from Durant.

kind of just a performance from Durant. Even allegedly Gregor's head has been

Even allegedly Gregor's head has been delivered, which is which is complete

delivered, which is which is complete and utter BS, right? That's just not

and utter BS, right? That's just not Gregor's head. And the first half this

Gregor's head. And the first half this is just full of tension. I really like

is just full of tension. I really like that part of this chapter. It's full of

that part of this chapter. It's full of tension. The Dornish, even when there's

tension. The Dornish, even when there's like a toast for Tommen, the Dor half

like a toast for Tommen, the Dor half the Dornish seem to not even toast at

the Dornish seem to not even toast at all. It shows how Dorne is on the brink

all. It shows how Dorne is on the brink of war. But the second half talks about

of war. But the second half talks about the real Dornish plan and what Duran has

the real Dornish plan and what Duran has planned. He is going to basically get

planned. He is going to basically get Balon Swan to go after Dark Stars. My

Balon Swan to go after Dark Stars. My Marcela will be fed kind of a lie about

Marcela will be fed kind of a lie about what truly happened. And Duran is going

what truly happened. And Duran is going to set out getting the Sand Snakes in

to set out getting the Sand Snakes in positions of power or influence or

positions of power or influence or trying to basically make them spies.

trying to basically make them spies. He's going to send Obara to assist with

He's going to send Obara to assist with Dark Star's capture because he's

Dark Star's capture because he's somebody that knows what would have

somebody that knows what would have happened and you know you want him dead

happened and you know you want him dead more or less. He wants Nimriia to take

more or less. He wants Nimriia to take Oberin's seat on the council and Tyenne

Oberin's seat on the council and Tyenne needs to get close to the high septin.

needs to get close to the high septin. He wants the sand snakes in a position

He wants the sand snakes in a position to bite if needed be like a snake. And

to bite if needed be like a snake. And he also reveals the plot that was set

he also reveals the plot that was set before him that what was really supposed

before him that what was really supposed to happen was when Tristain and

to happen was when Tristain and Myrrcella were going to be on their way

Myrrcella were going to be on their way back to King's Landing, they were going

back to King's Landing, they were going to based

to based a group of basically mercenaries that

a group of basically mercenaries that was going to be shouting basically half

was going to be shouting basically half man or the imp that were going to more

man or the imp that were going to more or less make Duran not think it was

or less make Duran not think it was Cersei that did it as they were going to

Cersei that did it as they were going to have Tristane killed blaming Tyrion. And

have Tristane killed blaming Tyrion. And so you see how Duran is very smart. He's

so you see how Duran is very smart. He's understanding what the circumstances are

understanding what the circumstances are and he's changing the field. And so I

and he's changing the field. And so I really like that part of it. Now the

really like that part of it. Now the other part part of this chapter I really

other part part of this chapter I really like as well is actually sand. How she

like as well is actually sand. How she doesn't want any of this war and

doesn't want any of this war and violence to happen anymore. She doesn't

violence to happen anymore. She doesn't want killing. She doesn't want all these

want killing. She doesn't want all these things. She's very smart. But yeah, it's

things. She's very smart. But yeah, it's a very but this chapter is a very good

a very but this chapter is a very good chapter of setting up the Dornish plot

chapter of setting up the Dornish plot to go forward. But I think my only

to go forward. But I think my only problem with this chapter is just Ariota

problem with this chapter is just Ariota is not a very interesting POV. Um, since

is not a very interesting POV. Um, since we're in his head, I mean, he just kind

we're in his head, I mean, he just kind of stands there and watches everything.

of stands there and watches everything. He doesn't really have too much of an

He doesn't really have too much of an actual personality. He's very much a

actual personality. He's very much a passive POV character, which isn't

passive POV character, which isn't necessarily a bad thing all the time,

necessarily a bad thing all the time, but it's when you have a character that

but it's when you have a character that doesn't have much enjoyment value. Like

doesn't have much enjoyment value. Like he doesn't have like for instance, say

he doesn't have like for instance, say like Tyrion in the first three books

like Tyrion in the first three books where, you know, in being inside of his

where, you know, in being inside of his head, he thinks very interesting

head, he thinks very interesting thoughts and he's very interesting

thoughts and he's very interesting character. Ariota is kind of one note

character. Ariota is kind of one note but still a great chapter. Uh and

but still a great chapter. Uh and that'll move us into 40th chapter John

that'll move us into 40th chapter John 8. Now John 8 is not exactly a long

8. Now John 8 is not exactly a long chapter. It's actually quite short, but

chapter. It's actually quite short, but in my opinion, it is a pivotal chapter

in my opinion, it is a pivotal chapter into the second half of John's story

into the second half of John's story because on one hand, he's making a huge

because on one hand, he's making a huge risk of sending Val to Tormund to try

risk of sending Val to Tormund to try and get him to basically treat with him

and get him to basically treat with him and to basically create a piece in which

and to basically create a piece in which the wildlings can come south of the

the wildlings can come south of the wall. This is a massive move, right?

wall. This is a massive move, right? Because the wildlings that came through

Because the wildlings that came through the wall before, not the ones like in

the wall before, not the ones like in the last chapter I talked about with

the last chapter I talked about with John, uh that little small party that

John, uh that little small party that came through. The last time the

came through. The last time the wildlings were allowed to come south was

wildlings were allowed to come south was because Stannis allowed that to happen

because Stannis allowed that to happen and all of those things. This is

and all of those things. This is completely different, right? This is

completely different, right? This is having thousands of wildlings come

having thousands of wildlings come through the wall willingly um by Jon. It

through the wall willingly um by Jon. It is very threatening because if you think

is very threatening because if you think about the wildlings and the nights watch

about the wildlings and the nights watch have been enemies for years, right? And

have been enemies for years, right? And you're going to now allow them to go

you're going to now allow them to go through the wall, your only defense

through the wall, your only defense against the wildlings. Well, what if the

against the wildlings. Well, what if the wildlings turn on you, right? What if

wildlings turn on you, right? What if they remember all these people that that

they remember all these people that that they have lost because of the nights

they have lost because of the nights watch? What stops them from rallying up

watch? What stops them from rallying up and killing all of them, right? They

and killing all of them, right? They don't have enough men to, you know, man

don't have enough men to, you know, man the walls. And the counter to that is

the walls. And the counter to that is obviously, well, the others threat,

obviously, well, the others threat, right? It's at least they're human. You

right? It's at least they're human. You can negotiate with them. And so it's one

can negotiate with them. And so it's one of these weird things because Jon is

of these weird things because Jon is getting rid of Val, who is Stannis's

getting rid of Val, who is Stannis's prize. Stannis would not want her to be

prize. Stannis would not want her to be released. And it's also you're doing

released. And it's also you're doing something that is heavily against the

something that is heavily against the Nights Watch. And again, Shawn doesn't

Nights Watch. And again, Shawn doesn't take any type of counsel. He doesn't

take any type of counsel. He doesn't listen to anybody. He just acts. He does

listen to anybody. He just acts. He does this thing with Val without getting any

this thing with Val without getting any counsel from anybody else, seeing what

counsel from anybody else, seeing what they think about this. And so it comes

they think about this. And so it comes off as Jon going against the Night's

off as Jon going against the Night's Watch and doing things just recklessly.

Watch and doing things just recklessly. And that's the big part of this because

And that's the big part of this because the second half of the chapter is going

the second half of the chapter is going to be people voicing their complaints,

to be people voicing their complaints, right? Led by kind of Bow and Marsh

right? Led by kind of Bow and Marsh because Jon has been doing some things

because Jon has been doing some things that are quite weird because from their

that are quite weird because from their point of view who Jon is not really

point of view who Jon is not really having any council with anybody. He's

having any council with anybody. He's just making decisions on his own. People

just making decisions on his own. People don't understand what he's doing. He

don't understand what he's doing. He just doesn't explain it. And so the

just doesn't explain it. And so the reason he dies is really built upon this

reason he dies is really built upon this chapter in my opinion because not only

chapter in my opinion because not only is he going to be, you know, pissing off

is he going to be, you know, pissing off Stannis and his men, he's also going to

Stannis and his men, he's also going to be pissing off the Nights Watch as well.

be pissing off the Nights Watch as well. And so he has no backing really on any

And so he has no backing really on any of the decisions he's making. He just

of the decisions he's making. He just does them. And so Bowen Marsh and the

does them. And so Bowen Marsh and the others talk about how Leathers has been

others talk about how Leathers has been made a master of arms, but he's a

made a master of arms, but he's a wildling. and how Satine is has become

wildling. and how Satine is has become basically what Jon used to be for Gor

basically what Jon used to be for Gor Mormont and that's meant to be, you

Mormont and that's meant to be, you know, grooming him for rule. Well,

know, grooming him for rule. Well, that's not how that's supposed to work.

that's not how that's supposed to work. Satine is very lowborn, right? He is

Satine is very lowborn, right? He is someone that has a very troubled past.

someone that has a very troubled past. Why is he being groomed for rule, right?

Why is he being groomed for rule, right? It's this hierarchy and they just don't

It's this hierarchy and they just don't understand Jon's motivations. They don't

understand Jon's motivations. They don't understand why Jon is doing things and

understand why Jon is doing things and Jon doesn't bother explaining it to

Jon doesn't bother explaining it to them. But then they also argue about

them. But then they also argue about sending Val and to negotiate with

sending Val and to negotiate with Tormund at all, as well as these dead

Tormund at all, as well as these dead bodies Jon has brought back and said

bodies Jon has brought back and said nothing about. And Jon, I think in my

nothing about. And Jon, I think in my opinion, is completely wrong in the way

opinion, is completely wrong in the way he handles this conversation. What these

he handles this conversation. What these people want, they're not being

people want, they're not being antagonistic to Jon. They're questioning

antagonistic to Jon. They're questioning him. They want to know why he's doing

him. They want to know why he's doing the things he does because he doesn't

the things he does because he doesn't ask anybody for counsel. He acts alone.

ask anybody for counsel. He acts alone. And yes, you can do those things, right?

And yes, you can do those things, right? that a king or a lord commander has that

that a king or a lord commander has that power, but what does it do? It isolates

power, but what does it do? It isolates the people around you, especially when

the people around you, especially when it's controversial things, right? Think

it's controversial things, right? Think about Aegon the 5th. He's a king that is

about Aegon the 5th. He's a king that is definitely a good person at heart, but a

definitely a good person at heart, but a lot of the things that he does goes

lot of the things that he does goes against his council. It goes against the

against his council. It goes against the people that are the wealthy and the

people that are the wealthy and the highborn and it puts a massive target on

highborn and it puts a massive target on Aegon's back to where he's not able to

Aegon's back to where he's not able to ever really keep these things enforced

ever really keep these things enforced because because he just does things that

because because he just does things that a lot of people don't like. He doesn't

a lot of people don't like. He doesn't make people understand why these things

make people understand why these things need to happen. And it's a bit

need to happen. And it's a bit different. I think Aon the fifth is way

different. I think Aon the fifth is way more justified than Jon is here. But Jon

more justified than Jon is here. But Jon should be telling them a lot more. He

should be telling them a lot more. He just basically yells at them and just

just basically yells at them and just kind of like shuts the conversation

kind of like shuts the conversation down. There's no real discussion on

down. There's no real discussion on ideology or thoughts in a meaningful

ideology or thoughts in a meaningful way. It's John being very youthful and

way. It's John being very youthful and very egotistical. Right? I am somebody

very egotistical. Right? I am somebody when I was younger, I re I relate to

when I was younger, I re I relate to John a lot in this. I was somebody that

John a lot in this. I was somebody that didn't know exactly how to converse with

didn't know exactly how to converse with people when they have different

people when they have different conflicting views than your own. How do

conflicting views than your own. How do you deal with those kind of

you deal with those kind of conversations?

conversations? And John kind of reminds me of myself. I

And John kind of reminds me of myself. I wasn't able to do those things. And you

wasn't able to do those things. And you know, I've I've learned, I think, a lot

know, I've I've learned, I think, a lot from that. And so for an example, I

from that. And so for an example, I don't believe in, you know, certain

don't believe in, you know, certain things like smoking because maybe

things like smoking because maybe health, you know, or whatever, but I

health, you know, or whatever, but I still have friends that maybe do do

still have friends that maybe do do those things, but I it's not like I hate

those things, but I it's not like I hate them or anything like that. Like that's

them or anything like that. Like that's what they want to do with their life and

what they want to do with their life and that's what they want to do. So who am I

that's what they want to do. So who am I to judge them for those things? That's

to judge them for those things? That's kind of how I view like Jon right now.

kind of how I view like Jon right now. He's not doing that though. John is

He's not doing that though. John is somebody that is very much doing my way

somebody that is very much doing my way or the highway type philosophy and he's

or the highway type philosophy and he's not even explaining why he got onto his

not even explaining why he got onto his highway of thought. And so I think John

highway of thought. And so I think John is not the greatest Lord Commander

is not the greatest Lord Commander because he doesn't know how to explain

because he doesn't know how to explain things. He's not very good at

things. He's not very good at communication. But I I really brought a

communication. But I I really brought a lot of attention to this chapter and I

lot of attention to this chapter and I went on a little bit more of a tangent

went on a little bit more of a tangent with this one because this is a pivotal

with this one because this is a pivotal chapter. It is a chapter that condemns

chapter. It is a chapter that condemns Jon's fate because it's one setting up

Jon's fate because it's one setting up the plotline for Tormund to come south

the plotline for Tormund to come south to the wall and all the wildlings. The

to the wall and all the wildlings. The thing that basically nails it in the

thing that basically nails it in the coffin that Jon is going to be killed.

coffin that Jon is going to be killed. He's isolating the people that gave him

He's isolating the people that gave him power. So, something I talked about on

power. So, something I talked about on Tuesday's video with Catelyn in her

Tuesday's video with Catelyn in her first chapter of the Clash of Kings, she

first chapter of the Clash of Kings, she kind of gives Rob the same advice that

kind of gives Rob the same advice that like Jon's doing right now. Even if the

like Jon's doing right now. Even if the people around you don't like what you're

people around you don't like what you're doing, you're still the king. They can't

doing, you're still the king. They can't unmake you. And something that Rob

unmake you. And something that Rob responds with, which is very wise, is

responds with, which is very wise, is that the same people that make you a

that the same people that make you a king can unmake you a king. That's same

king can unmake you a king. That's same thing that applies here to John. So, I

thing that applies here to John. So, I really like the the the writing that

really like the the the writing that George does for this chapter because it

George does for this chapter because it needs to work. This is the flip chapter,

needs to work. This is the flip chapter, but the 41st chapter is unfortunately

but the 41st chapter is unfortunately Tyrion's. We're going to end on kind of

Tyrion's. We're going to end on kind of a eh note, but we see that we pick up

a eh note, but we see that we pick up with Tyrion and Penny back still on this

with Tyrion and Penny back still on this ship and they're doing this joust thing.

ship and they're doing this joust thing. I guess it shows again Tyrion has put

I guess it shows again Tyrion has put his pride aside and things like that.

his pride aside and things like that. He's I guess growing as a character. Um

He's I guess growing as a character. Um even though it's still kind of eh, but

even though it's still kind of eh, but we see that they've lost the wind,

we see that they've lost the wind, right? That it's actually being very

right? That it's actually being very difficult to move their ship and things

difficult to move their ship and things like that. and they think that they've

like that. and they think that they've won the day as they realize, you know,

won the day as they realize, you know, the wind is picking up, but instead it's

the wind is picking up, but instead it's a storm. And and Makoro gives a very

a storm. And and Makoro gives a very cryptic line like this is why the ship

cryptic line like this is why the ship will not reach its destination is

will not reach its destination is because of this storm. And so it really

because of this storm. And so it really is interesting because Moro is like the

is interesting because Moro is like the only thing interesting really in my

only thing interesting really in my opinion of the three chapters that we've

opinion of the three chapters that we've talked about in today's video. And so he

talked about in today's video. And so he kind of already knows what his fate

kind of already knows what his fate seems like it's going to be. One of the

seems like it's going to be. One of the things that Melisandre always sees first

things that Melisandre always sees first in her visions that she's basically

in her visions that she's basically trained herself to do is to look for

trained herself to do is to look for things that threaten herself. And so

things that threaten herself. And so it's interesting because I think Mcquaro

it's interesting because I think Mcquaro already realizes what his fate is to be

already realizes what his fate is to be with Victarion. But either way, they

with Victarion. But either way, they have this storm and in the middle of the

have this storm and in the middle of the storm, Penny and Tyrion kiss, but it's

storm, Penny and Tyrion kiss, but it's not like a romantic kiss or that's what

not like a romantic kiss or that's what they both say anyway.

they both say anyway. It's like, okay,

It's like, okay, you know, I don't really buy this

you know, I don't really buy this relationship that much and I don't

relationship that much and I don't really care about it that much, but

really care about it that much, but okay. But eventually, their boat is

okay. But eventually, their boat is basically destroyed. Um, it's damaged

basically destroyed. Um, it's damaged beyond repairs. They are basically

beyond repairs. They are basically sitting ducks until they either starve

sitting ducks until they either starve out or die, more or less. And so for 19

out or die, more or less. And so for 19 days, they wait. And during this time,

days, they wait. And during this time, actually during the storm, I should say,

actually during the storm, I should say, some of the men were basically thrown

some of the men were basically thrown overboard. Mcquaro being one of those

overboard. Mcquaro being one of those people. They are presumed dead by Tyrion

people. They are presumed dead by Tyrion and us, the audience. But that is not

and us, the audience. But that is not the case as we'll know a little later

the case as we'll know a little later on. But they eventually see a boat and

on. But they eventually see a boat and this seems like a good thing, right?

this seems like a good thing, right? They can maybe be picked up from being

They can maybe be picked up from being stranded, but Jorah sourly notes it is a

stranded, but Jorah sourly notes it is a slave ship. So yeah, I I think we end

slave ship. So yeah, I I think we end part three in kind of a more of a

part three in kind of a more of a whimper um than a big moment like we did

whimper um than a big moment like we did with I'd say part two,

with I'd say part two, but that's just the case. Uh Tyrion and

but that's just the case. Uh Tyrion and Tyrion is kind of down there with like

Tyrion is kind of down there with like Quentyn right now for me where anytime I

Quentyn right now for me where anytime I see a Quentyn or a Tyrion chapter, I

see a Quentyn or a Tyrion chapter, I know it's not really going to be a good

know it's not really going to be a good one. Um and that's just the case, right?

one. Um and that's just the case, right? It's unfortunate, but that's the

It's unfortunate, but that's the problems of A Dance with Dragons. Dance

problems of A Dance with Dragons. Dance Dragons has super huge highs like the

Dragons has super huge highs like the Davos chapter or the Theon chapters or

Davos chapter or the Theon chapters or some of Jon and Daenerys's chapters, but

some of Jon and Daenerys's chapters, but then you have the really big lows and

then you have the really big lows and that's kind of this chapter, the

that's kind of this chapter, the Tyrion's arc, Quentyn's arc, you know,

Tyrion's arc, Quentyn's arc, you know, stuff like that. But still, in this part

stuff like that. But still, in this part of the retrospective, this is where I

of the retrospective, this is where I think dance really starts to hit its

think dance really starts to hit its peaks. Now, we did see some really great

peaks. Now, we did see some really great chapters early on in Dance, don't get me

chapters early on in Dance, don't get me wrong, but a lot of the POVs were kind

wrong, but a lot of the POVs were kind of building towards things and we were

of building towards things and we were still kind of getting the ball rolling.

still kind of getting the ball rolling. This is where we're entering kind of the

This is where we're entering kind of the back, I would say, two-fifths of the

back, I would say, two-fifths of the book. There are some really good

book. There are some really good chapters where we start seeing more

chapters where we start seeing more chapters from characters in Feast for

chapters from characters in Feast for Crows, getting their some of getting

Crows, getting their some of getting some of their revelations and

some of their revelations and resolutions. Uh, specifically one we're

resolutions. Uh, specifically one we're going to talk about in this uh, video

going to talk about in this uh, video which I find very interesting and I'm

which I find very interesting and I'm really glad we got more of is Arya. I

really glad we got more of is Arya. I think Arya has her best chapters in this

think Arya has her best chapters in this book, not even in Feast for Crows, which

book, not even in Feast for Crows, which is kind of insane. But yeah, let's not

is kind of insane. But yeah, let's not waste any time. If you did want to

waste any time. If you did want to listen to these on Spotify, I do usually

listen to these on Spotify, I do usually put my longer videos on Spotify. So

put my longer videos on Spotify. So check that out if you want to listen to

check that out if you want to listen to these kind of on the road, not on the

these kind of on the road, not on the YouTube platform. I will have that in

YouTube platform. I will have that in the description as well. So look for

the description as well. So look for that. But let's start off right away

that. But let's start off right away with chapter 42, Theon 5. And what can I

with chapter 42, Theon 5. And what can I say about Theon? I feel like I say this

say about Theon? I feel like I say this every time a Theon chapter is brought

every time a Theon chapter is brought up. I did I think that almost any

up. I did I think that almost any chapter by Theon could be somebody's

chapter by Theon could be somebody's favorite Theon chapter of the book

favorite Theon chapter of the book because they're all that good. Now,

because they're all that good. Now, personally, I like the Theon chapters

personally, I like the Theon chapters almost as they go because each one

almost as they go because each one builds upon the last, and you have just

builds upon the last, and you have just more tension and more of Theon or Reek

more tension and more of Theon or Reek trying to find the version of himself

trying to find the version of himself that is Theon and trying to become a

that is Theon and trying to become a better person and man and overcoming the

better person and man and overcoming the psychological damage and physical damage

psychological damage and physical damage done to him. I just think like this

done to him. I just think like this chapter, the next chapter, the chapter

chapter, the next chapter, the chapter after are just fantastic. And so, what

after are just fantastic. And so, what do we get in Theon 5? It's Theon after

do we get in Theon 5? It's Theon after the kind of the dreaded wedding chapter

the kind of the dreaded wedding chapter between Ramsay and Jane Pool or fake

between Ramsay and Jane Pool or fake Arya. And we see that Roose is kind of

Arya. And we see that Roose is kind of declaring the snows have come to wipe

declaring the snows have come to wipe away Stannis. And this is before we

away Stannis. And this is before we actually get Asha's uh first like

actually get Asha's uh first like chapter with Stannis's march to

chapter with Stannis's march to Winterfell. So, this is kind of a re

Winterfell. So, this is kind of a re revelation to us as a as an audience to

revelation to us as a as an audience to kind of prelude what we're going to see

kind of prelude what we're going to see with Asha in the next chapter. But it's

with Asha in the next chapter. But it's interesting because you see that there's

interesting because you see that there's this sense of security, right, that it

this sense of security, right, that it seems like Roose's camp has. But slowly

seems like Roose's camp has. But slowly as this chapter goes on, that seems to

as this chapter goes on, that seems to kind of slowly dissipate to where even

kind of slowly dissipate to where even they, the side that, you know, is on the

they, the side that, you know, is on the defensive. They're in Winterfell. The

defensive. They're in Winterfell. The atmosphere is filled with tension. Theon

atmosphere is filled with tension. Theon himself gets approached by some

himself gets approached by some interesting figures in this chapter. One

interesting figures in this chapter. One of them, one of them being one of

of them, one of them being one of Mance's spear wives, wanting to know how

Mance's spear wives, wanting to know how he got into Winterfell so easily, which

he got into Winterfell so easily, which we know will have repercussions later on

we know will have repercussions later on in the book. But for now, Theon kind of

in the book. But for now, Theon kind of shrugs it off. Theon himself prefers to

shrugs it off. Theon himself prefers to kind of wander the castles. He's kind of

kind of wander the castles. He's kind of this ghost in Winterfell. He's this

this ghost in Winterfell. He's this person reminiscing about his youth and

person reminiscing about his youth and all of the decisions he's made that's

all of the decisions he's made that's now led to Winterfell being in the state

now led to Winterfell being in the state that it's in right now. And so it's so

that it's in right now. And so it's so great because not only are we forwarding

great because not only are we forwarding the plot and the northern plot, which is

the plot and the northern plot, which is by far the best plot of the book, it's

by far the best plot of the book, it's forwarding Theon's growth, reminding him

forwarding Theon's growth, reminding him who he needs to be. And we get a lot of

who he needs to be. And we get a lot of him thinking about, you know, his

him thinking about, you know, his psychological damage with Ramsay because

psychological damage with Ramsay because it's brought to the front with how he

it's brought to the front with how he thinks about Jane, right? Jane is going

thinks about Jane, right? Jane is going through the same things very similar to

through the same things very similar to what Theon was going through and he

what Theon was going through and he sympathizes with her. He even thinks

sympathizes with her. He even thinks about how he had planned or at least

about how he had planned or at least thought of trying to escape. And that's

thought of trying to escape. And that's interesting as well because he's

interesting as well because he's actually going to do that by the end of

actually going to do that by the end of this book. But it shows that Theon

this book. But it shows that Theon slowly through each chapter is becoming

slowly through each chapter is becoming more and more part of maybe this new

more and more part of maybe this new version of himself. I won't say the old

version of himself. I won't say the old version because the old version of Theon

version because the old version of Theon this isn't that, right? He's becoming a

this isn't that, right? He's becoming a better version of himself and trying to

better version of himself and trying to atone for some of the things that he

atone for some of the things that he did. He even pleads with the old gods.

did. He even pleads with the old gods. something that you something that Theon

something that you something that Theon in his younger years never would have

in his younger years never would have done. I just did Theon one a Clash of

done. I just did Theon one a Clash of Kings Theon's first POV in the entire

Kings Theon's first POV in the entire story. And even when he talks to his

story. And even when he talks to his uncle Aeron, he isn't somebody that

uncle Aeron, he isn't somebody that prays to any gods, not even the drown

prays to any gods, not even the drown god either of the Ironborn. And so when

god either of the Ironborn. And so when you get to this point of the story and

you get to this point of the story and you see that he's been so broken that

you see that he's been so broken that he's turning to the old gods of the

he's turning to the old gods of the Starks, it has a really interesting

Starks, it has a really interesting revelation because when we get to the

revelation because when we get to the Barbrey Dustin part of this chapter, you

Barbrey Dustin part of this chapter, you kind of understand why he almost goes to

kind of understand why he almost goes to the old gods. And you also would think

the old gods. And you also would think that the drown gods have never done

that the drown gods have never done anything for Theon. If anything, him

anything for Theon. If anything, him being an Ironborn has only worked

being an Ironborn has only worked against him and the decisions that he's

against him and the decisions that he's had to make to try and you be try and

had to make to try and you be try and prove himself to his father. And so we,

prove himself to his father. And so we, as we see Theon kind of wandering his

as we see Theon kind of wandering his way back, he is actually run into by

way back, he is actually run into by Lady Dustin, who also asks something of

Lady Dustin, who also asks something of him, reminding him of his past. Whereas

him, reminding him of his past. Whereas the Spearwise had asked how he'd taken

the Spearwise had asked how he'd taken Winterfell. Lady Dustin only wants to

Winterfell. Lady Dustin only wants to look at the crypts, which is interesting

look at the crypts, which is interesting considering the past, right? Theon never

considering the past, right? Theon never thought to look to the crypts for

thought to look to the crypts for Brandon Rickon, but that's where they

Brandon Rickon, but that's where they were the whole time. And there's even

were the whole time. And there's even these subtle nods that we see swords

these subtle nods that we see swords missing, especially Brandon's. And it's

missing, especially Brandon's. And it's interesting because you take a pairing

interesting because you take a pairing of Lady Dustin and Theon and they're

of Lady Dustin and Theon and they're quite similar characters in a lot of

quite similar characters in a lot of ways. Both of them kind of even stating

ways. Both of them kind of even stating to each other that they both wanted to

to each other that they both wanted to be Starks, right? And that's that great

be Starks, right? And that's that great revelation where you understand Theon

revelation where you understand Theon where he's very similar to John. I

where he's very similar to John. I talked about this in his first chapter

talked about this in his first chapter as well is that Theon and John share a

as well is that Theon and John share a lot of similarities even though they

lot of similarities even though they have very different personality traits.

have very different personality traits. And so when you have all this happening

And so when you have all this happening and especially in the crypts with this

and especially in the crypts with this eerie vibe hanging over them and you

eerie vibe hanging over them and you even get Lady Dustin's background and

even get Lady Dustin's background and her bitterly talking about, you know,

her bitterly talking about, you know, her past, I just love everything that we

her past, I just love everything that we get in this chapter. It's one of my

get in this chapter. It's one of my favorites of the book. I It's not going

favorites of the book. I It's not going to be, you know, like my favorite or

to be, you know, like my favorite or anything. There's going to be better

anything. There's going to be better chapters in this book overall. I do have

chapters in this book overall. I do have this chapter within like my top 20 of

this chapter within like my top 20 of the book. I've already ranked all of the

the book. I've already ranked all of the chapters and I've kind of gotten through

chapters and I've kind of gotten through most of my notes already, but I do think

most of my notes already, but I do think really strong chapter from Theon. And

really strong chapter from Theon. And again, I pretty much say this for every

again, I pretty much say this for every Theon chapter. I could definitely

Theon chapter. I could definitely understand if this is your favorite

understand if this is your favorite chapter, but number 43. And I got to

chapter, but number 43. And I got to say, George was cooking when he started,

say, George was cooking when he started, you know, giving us these chapters like

you know, giving us these chapters like chapter 42, which is Theon 5, 43 being

chapter 42, which is Theon 5, 43 being Asha 2, and even when we get to John um

Asha 2, and even when we get to John um 9, which is chapter 45, and even chapter

9, which is chapter 45, and even chapter 46, which is Arya 1. A really good

46, which is Arya 1. A really good string of chapters, but Arya 2 is our

string of chapters, but Arya 2 is our first chapter with her, with Stannis.

first chapter with her, with Stannis. And so, we see how this long journey is

And so, we see how this long journey is going to be from going from Deepwood M

going to be from going from Deepwood M to Winterfell. It's not really even that

to Winterfell. It's not really even that long. It's only a 15 days journey is

long. It's only a 15 days journey is what they say when they leave, but we

what they say when they leave, but we know that's not going to go well, right?

know that's not going to go well, right? We hear it from Russ's POV that the

We hear it from Russ's POV that the snows are going to start. So, this is

snows are going to start. So, this is kind of going a little bit in the past

kind of going a little bit in the past and then catching up to where we're

and then catching up to where we're going to be at with Theon's uh plotline

going to be at with Theon's uh plotline for the most part. But the way I

for the most part. But the way I described this chapter in my notes was

described this chapter in my notes was it kind of feels like if you guys have

it kind of feels like if you guys have ever played the Oregon Trail like game

ever played the Oregon Trail like game that you can play on the web browser or

that you can play on the web browser or even know anything about the Oregon

even know anything about the Oregon Trail, it feels like that but gone very

Trail, it feels like that but gone very wrong. Right? The temperature is going

wrong. Right? The temperature is going against you. Men are dying. Your horses

against you. Men are dying. Your horses are dying. Everything is going wrong.

are dying. Everything is going wrong. And the start of the journey starts, you

And the start of the journey starts, you know, pretty fine. It has Asha being

know, pretty fine. It has Asha being chained in a baggage train with Al with

chained in a baggage train with Al with Alisan Mormont to give her company,

Alisan Mormont to give her company, which not great company. You can

which not great company. You can understand why the two wouldn't like

understand why the two wouldn't like each other. Um Bear Island being kind of

each other. Um Bear Island being kind of an island nation on the west side of the

an island nation on the west side of the north. The Ironborn would probably raid

north. The Ironborn would probably raid them. You can see that there be

them. You can see that there be definitely divides between the two

definitely divides between the two households. But we also see that she

households. But we also see that she finds kind of a good companion, Justin

finds kind of a good companion, Justin Massie, or at least somebody that's easy

Massie, or at least somebody that's easy to talk to and entertaining to, even

to talk to and entertaining to, even though Justin Massie probably isn't

though Justin Massie probably isn't talking to her for the right reasons

talking to her for the right reasons given her claim and all those things,

given her claim and all those things, but she kind of just endures it. And I

but she kind of just endures it. And I personally love Asha. I like her

personally love Asha. I like her personality. I love her POVs. It really

personality. I love her POVs. It really helps that you put one of my favorite

helps that you put one of my favorite POVs going into the next book in

POVs going into the next book in probably my favorite storyline of this

probably my favorite storyline of this book. It just creates this beautiful

book. It just creates this beautiful storyline that goes horribly wrong for

storyline that goes horribly wrong for Stannis because as the journey starts to

Stannis because as the journey starts to turn, the northern storms begin and

turn, the northern storms begin and these men of the south, they are

these men of the south, they are definitely not prepared for it. Asha

definitely not prepared for it. Asha herself is even brought before Stannis,

herself is even brought before Stannis, but she messes up talking to Stannis as

but she messes up talking to Stannis as she mentions Robert because she's like,

she mentions Robert because she's like, "Well, we could turn foes into friends."

"Well, we could turn foes into friends." And that whole idea which which Robert

And that whole idea which which Robert was great at, Stannis has never been

was great at, Stannis has never been good at it. Basically ends her meeting

good at it. Basically ends her meeting with Stannis and it doesn't go

with Stannis and it doesn't go particularly well. But they continue for

particularly well. But they continue for 30 days. Stannis not allowing them to

30 days. Stannis not allowing them to stop until they reach a Coffter's

stop until they reach a Coffter's village. Asha realizes the march has

village. Asha realizes the march has basically destroyed them. They've lost

basically destroyed them. They've lost all of their mounts. Basically, they're

all of their mounts. Basically, they're running low on food. Again, if you're

running low on food. Again, if you're thinking you're going to have a 15-day

thinking you're going to have a 15-day march and then it ends up being 30 days

march and then it ends up being 30 days and you can't really forage all that

and you can't really forage all that much to get extra food to resupply

much to get extra food to resupply yourselves, it's not going to go

yourselves, it's not going to go particularly well. Morale is low,

particularly well. Morale is low, supplies are low, and they themselves

supplies are low, and they themselves seem to basically be getting thinned and

seem to basically be getting thinned and aged. Asha notes that Sannis looks like

aged. Asha notes that Sannis looks like a hollow version of himself as he seems

a hollow version of himself as he seems thinner and age like I talked about. But

thinner and age like I talked about. But overall, the quality of this Asha

overall, the quality of this Asha chapter is just fantastic. And I I

chapter is just fantastic. And I I talked about this and this is kind of my

talked about this and this is kind of my frustration with Dance is if all of the

frustration with Dance is if all of the plot lines in the book had the same

plot lines in the book had the same quality that the northern plot does,

quality that the northern plot does, this would probably be the best book of

this would probably be the best book of the entire series. But unfortunately,

the entire series. But unfortunately, you have to balance the North plot line

you have to balance the North plot line with things like the Essos plot lines.

with things like the Essos plot lines. And that's kind of where I feel like

And that's kind of where I feel like this book stuck in the mud. But that'll

this book stuck in the mud. But that'll get us to chapter 44. And mentioning

get us to chapter 44. And mentioning Essos, we have Danny 7, chapter number

Essos, we have Danny 7, chapter number 44. Now, this is a weird chapter to me

44. Now, this is a weird chapter to me because I don't particularly rate it

because I don't particularly rate it that high in terms of Danny's chapters,

that high in terms of Danny's chapters, but I did note I'm happy that this

but I did note I'm happy that this particular chapter was a Dany chapter

particular chapter was a Dany chapter because this chapter, the thing that

because this chapter, the thing that it's the most known for, the thing that

it's the most known for, the thing that has the most amount of like you're going

has the most amount of like you're going to remember it is going to be this is

to remember it is going to be this is when Quentyn and Daenerys meet. Now, I

when Quentyn and Daenerys meet. Now, I love that this interaction comes from

love that this interaction comes from Daenerys. Personally, I hate Quentyn. I

Daenerys. Personally, I hate Quentyn. I think he is just a bad POV. I would go

think he is just a bad POV. I would go as far as saying he's probably the worst

as far as saying he's probably the worst POV of the entire series given that he

POV of the entire series given that he has multiple chapters and they're all

has multiple chapters and they're all pretty bad in my opinion outside of

pretty bad in my opinion outside of maybe his last one. I think his last

maybe his last one. I think his last chapter where you know he dies in. Yes,

chapter where you know he dies in. Yes, he he does basically die in that

he he does basically die in that chapter. This is only one of note in my

chapter. This is only one of note in my opinion. But before we get to the

opinion. But before we get to the Quentyn stuff, we do see some stuff

Quentyn stuff, we do see some stuff other stuff before then. We see her a

other stuff before then. We see her a bed with Daario as she is having doubts

bed with Daario as she is having doubts about her wedding as she's kind of

about her wedding as she's kind of feeling boxed in as they are besieged

feeling boxed in as they are besieged and Daario tells her to marry him even

and Daario tells her to marry him even though he knows she cannot. Out of all

though he knows she cannot. Out of all the stuff we get with Daario and

the stuff we get with Daario and Daenerys in this book, I do like this

Daenerys in this book, I do like this interaction between the two because it

interaction between the two because it does show Daenerys not being able to get

does show Daenerys not being able to get the things that she wants as a queen,

the things that she wants as a queen, having to put her people first, and some

having to put her people first, and some of the more interesting parts of

of the more interesting parts of Daenerys's actual plotline. And we don't

Daenerys's actual plotline. And we don't get a ton of that in this because it's

get a ton of that in this because it's almost completely filled with just the

almost completely filled with just the romantic interests of Daenerys. And

romantic interests of Daenerys. And unfortunately, I don't really like a lot

unfortunately, I don't really like a lot of the romance stuff, whether it's with

of the romance stuff, whether it's with his Dar, whether it's with Daario,

his Dar, whether it's with Daario, whether it's with Quentin, whether it's

whether it's with Quentin, whether it's with, you know, whoever. I find that to

with, you know, whoever. I find that to be the weaker stuff in Daenerys's

be the weaker stuff in Daenerys's plotline in this book. But I will say um

plotline in this book. But I will say um when we do get to when Daario introduced

when we do get to when Daario introduced the recruits or and aka uh Quentyn's

the recruits or and aka uh Quentyn's party to Dany,

party to Dany, I find this interaction to be so funny

I find this interaction to be so funny because it's Daenerys like looking at

because it's Daenerys like looking at this prince of Dorne and just going hm

this prince of Dorne and just going hm not attractive. She compares him to a

not attractive. She compares him to a frog because that's what he's kind of

frog because that's what he's kind of named. And she recalls a story, right,

named. And she recalls a story, right, where the frog will turn into a great

where the frog will turn into a great prince or, you know, it's kind of this

prince or, you know, it's kind of this twist on basically our own story where

twist on basically our own story where where the frog would turn into a

where the frog would turn into a princess and all that stuff. And yeah,

princess and all that stuff. And yeah, she's basically saying, Quentyn, you're

she's basically saying, Quentyn, you're ugly. Why don't you turn good-looking?

ugly. Why don't you turn good-looking? And it's like, man, Daenerys, that's

And it's like, man, Daenerys, that's kind of some wild stuff in there. But

kind of some wild stuff in there. But honestly, because of how bad Quentyn is

honestly, because of how bad Quentyn is in this book, I completely love Daenerys

in this book, I completely love Daenerys uh in this moment. And I think it's just

uh in this moment. And I think it's just so funny because, you know, you look at

so funny because, you know, you look at Quentyn and I think he's not the best

Quentyn and I think he's not the best written character. I think he's a

written character. I think he's a character that has a lot of plot

character that has a lot of plot conveniences. And you just have Quentyn

conveniences. And you just have Quentyn rocking up like, yeah, you know, we're

rocking up like, yeah, you know, we're supposed to marry because of this

supposed to marry because of this contract, which does not involve me or

contract, which does not involve me or you in it. Um, but it is a major like

you in it. Um, but it is a major like reveal, right? The fact that we get this

reveal, right? The fact that we get this idea that there was this marriage

idea that there was this marriage contract that Oberin and the sea lord of

contract that Oberin and the sea lord of Braavos looked over that was a marriage

Braavos looked over that was a marriage pact basically between Aron and Viseris.

pact basically between Aron and Viseris. It is interesting, right? That would

It is interesting, right? That would seem to kind of confirm that the red

seem to kind of confirm that the red door was in Braavos and was probably the

door was in Braavos and was probably the sea lord of Braavos's, you know, house.

sea lord of Braavos's, you know, house. Now, people still debate that to this

Now, people still debate that to this day. I feel like to me this is kind of

day. I feel like to me this is kind of the proof you need, but

the proof you need, but I don't know. Some people will disagree

I don't know. Some people will disagree with that, but I think it's a either

with that, but I think it's a either way. It's still a massive reveal um for

way. It's still a massive reveal um for Daenerys specifically, but it's just

Daenerys specifically, but it's just Daenerys going, "Okay, but Quentyn, you

Daenerys going, "Okay, but Quentyn, you don't have much to offer here. There's

don't have much to offer here. There's no swords that can help benefit me here

no swords that can help benefit me here as well. I'm already going to be getting

as well. I'm already going to be getting married to Hisdar. I already have, not

married to Hisdar. I already have, not only do I already have somebody I'm

only do I already have somebody I'm going to marry, I already have somebody

going to marry, I already have somebody that I'm sleeping with. So, like Quentyn

that I'm sleeping with. So, like Quentyn offers literally no value to Daenerys

offers literally no value to Daenerys right now at all. Like at all. And I

right now at all. Like at all. And I just think it's so funny the way

just think it's so funny the way Daenerys puts Quentyn down. Um, you

Daenerys puts Quentyn down. Um, you know, she tries to do it in a nice way,

know, she tries to do it in a nice way, but you know, us knowing her thoughts is

but you know, us knowing her thoughts is what makes this interaction hilarious to

what makes this interaction hilarious to me. Uh, if we would have gotten

me. Uh, if we would have gotten Quentyn's side of this, it would not

Quentyn's side of this, it would not have been as interesting in my opinion.

have been as interesting in my opinion. But like to me, this is why I really

But like to me, this is why I really don't think that we needed Quentyn as a

don't think that we needed Quentyn as a POV because Quentyn kind of recounts

POV because Quentyn kind of recounts everything that they did to get here to

everything that they did to get here to Daenerys like Daario here. So it's like

Daenerys like Daario here. So it's like why did we need those chapters to begin

why did we need those chapters to begin with? And also all it's leading up to is

with? And also all it's leading up to is okay, Daenerys is going to deny him.

okay, Daenerys is going to deny him. He's going to do something foolish and

He's going to do something foolish and die. So, the the only real reason I can

die. So, the the only real reason I can see why we needed Quentyn as a POV was

see why we needed Quentyn as a POV was because George wanted to make him a

because George wanted to make him a character that we cared about when he

character that we cared about when he died, and it's like didn't care about

died, and it's like didn't care about him in the beginning, so I'm not going

him in the beginning, so I'm not going to care about him when he dies. So,

to care about him when he dies. So, I don't know. But still, I I do think

I don't know. But still, I I do think that this chapter is interesting because

that this chapter is interesting because it also does push the idea of Quaith's

it also does push the idea of Quaith's prophecy. Like, Daenerys believes it

prophecy. Like, Daenerys believes it even more now because she was right um

even more now because she was right um about the son's son coming, more or

about the son's son coming, more or less. And so I do find that it's a

less. And so I do find that it's a enjoyable chapter, but it's not one of

enjoyable chapter, but it's not one of the better Daenerys chapters whatsoever.

the better Daenerys chapters whatsoever. It lacks, I think, the really

It lacks, I think, the really interesting parts of Daenerys and how

interesting parts of Daenerys and how she has to be a queen and ruling the

she has to be a queen and ruling the decisions she has to make. And a lot of

decisions she has to make. And a lot of the things that I find enjoyable about

the things that I find enjoyable about Daenerys's arc are just not present

Daenerys's arc are just not present here. It's kind of dealing once again

here. It's kind of dealing once again with the romance side of Daenerys's arc,

with the romance side of Daenerys's arc, which in my opinion is already bloated

which in my opinion is already bloated and too full already. Um, especially

and too full already. Um, especially when you think about Victarion kind of

when you think about Victarion kind of entering into this Daenerys lovers arena

entering into this Daenerys lovers arena as well. Um, I just don't really enjoy

as well. Um, I just don't really enjoy the overcrowded romance plot lines, but

the overcrowded romance plot lines, but I don't think it's a terrible chapter by

I don't think it's a terrible chapter by any means. That leads us to number 45,

any means. That leads us to number 45, John 9. So, in the last video, I I think

John 9. So, in the last video, I I think John was very underwhelming. I think a

John was very underwhelming. I think a lot of chapters leading up to the kind

lot of chapters leading up to the kind of the endgame for John, they are just

of the endgame for John, they are just building block chapters. They're very

building block chapters. They're very middle of the the road chapters, but

middle of the the road chapters, but this is where I think Jon starts to

this is where I think Jon starts to really start to get good um again,

really start to get good um again, right? Because I think Jon is very good

right? Because I think Jon is very good at the beginning. I think he's very good

at the beginning. I think he's very good at the end. I think in the middle is

at the end. I think in the middle is kind of where he takes a bit of a

kind of where he takes a bit of a slowdown as we're rebuilding into the

slowdown as we're rebuilding into the other parts of of his arc. And I really

other parts of of his arc. And I really like what we get to see here, right?

like what we get to see here, right? Because we see the queen's party coming

Because we see the queen's party coming to Castle Black before they go on to the

to Castle Black before they go on to the Knights fort. We see the tensions right

Knights fort. We see the tensions right off the bat between the two sides

off the bat between the two sides because Jon's doing a lot of things that

because Jon's doing a lot of things that maybe the queen wouldn't like. There's

maybe the queen wouldn't like. There's just that built-in tension there, right,

just that built-in tension there, right, with people in the queen's men who also

with people in the queen's men who also are not the most friendly to Jon and are

are not the most friendly to Jon and are even antagonistic like Axel Florent is

even antagonistic like Axel Florent is kind of towards the end of this chapter.

kind of towards the end of this chapter. It's just building up the lack of

It's just building up the lack of support Jon has, right? not only is he

support Jon has, right? not only is he losing the support of the Nights Watch,

losing the support of the Nights Watch, he also doesn't really have the support

he also doesn't really have the support of Stannis's, I guess, men, even though

of Stannis's, I guess, men, even though it's really Melisandre's men. You see

it's really Melisandre's men. You see all that playing out. And so, I find

all that playing out. And so, I find that to be really fascinating. But the

that to be really fascinating. But the other part of this that is even more

other part of this that is even more interesting is a a member from the Iron

interesting is a a member from the Iron Bank actually ends up arriving here as

Bank actually ends up arriving here as well, which is great because it kind of

well, which is great because it kind of fulfills Cersei's arc, right, in Feast

fulfills Cersei's arc, right, in Feast for Crows where she's not willing to pay

for Crows where she's not willing to pay back the Iron Bank or any of those

back the Iron Bank or any of those things. She very much dismisses them.

things. She very much dismisses them. And so the Iron Bank are going to try

And so the Iron Bank are going to try and place their bets on Stannis. But Jon

and place their bets on Stannis. But Jon takes the opportunity to try and get

takes the opportunity to try and get loans, use their ships for Hard Home.

loans, use their ships for Hard Home. And it's great because you understand we

And it's great because you understand we we as an audience understand what Jon's

we as an audience understand what Jon's doing because we're in his head, right?

doing because we're in his head, right? He's trying to find a way that they're

He's trying to find a way that they're going to have enough food to survive

going to have enough food to survive winter. And so how do you do that,

winter. And so how do you do that, right? You're going to have to take

right? You're going to have to take loans. You're going to have to try and

loans. You're going to have to try and trade with other people and getting food

trade with other people and getting food and all those things.

and all those things. But the problem is going to be you're

But the problem is going to be you're going to take out loans that the nights

going to take out loans that the nights watches isn't going to be able to pay

watches isn't going to be able to pay back. Um they don't earn a lot of money.

back. Um they don't earn a lot of money. They don't have resources that they can

They don't have resources that they can give away for money. It's very much

give away for money. It's very much placing the watch in a very very

placing the watch in a very very difficult position because yes, if he

difficult position because yes, if he doesn't pay the loans, many of them are

doesn't pay the loans, many of them are going to die in the winter. But if he

going to die in the winter. But if he does take these loans afterwards,

does take these loans afterwards, they're going to be in deep, deep debt.

they're going to be in deep, deep debt. And who knows what the Iron Bank's going

And who knows what the Iron Bank's going to do to get their money back. So you

to do to get their money back. So you have this issue that you can see is kind

have this issue that you can see is kind of a lose-lose situation in my opinion,

of a lose-lose situation in my opinion, but John is right. Like this at least

but John is right. Like this at least buys them time to get through winter.

buys them time to get through winter. But he doesn't explain any of this to

But he doesn't explain any of this to anyone. He doesn't take any counsel for

anyone. He doesn't take any counsel for any from anyone. See what maybe see what

any from anyone. See what maybe see what maybe other people think about his

maybe other people think about his decision and what they should do with

decision and what they should do with the Iron Bank. Jon acts completely alone

the Iron Bank. Jon acts completely alone like he's done all throughout this book.

like he's done all throughout this book. He completely isolates himself because

He completely isolates himself because he's not willing to, you know, have

he's not willing to, you know, have counsel with other people and see

counsel with other people and see differing viewpoints and be able to

differing viewpoints and be able to communicate why he believes those things

communicate why he believes those things maybe aren't the correct uh way of doing

maybe aren't the correct uh way of doing things. And so I love this channel

things. And so I love this channel because it exemplifies all those things

because it exemplifies all those things because now that you know if you're

because now that you know if you're somebody else, if you're in the Night's

somebody else, if you're in the Night's Watch and you're sitting here going this

Watch and you're sitting here going this is all you're hearing is that John took

is all you're hearing is that John took major loans from the Iron Bank. You're

major loans from the Iron Bank. You're thinking what what is he doing? You

thinking what what is he doing? You don't understand his rationale because

don't understand his rationale because he doesn't explain it to anybody. He

he doesn't explain it to anybody. He keeps it to himself. And those are the

keeps it to himself. And those are the things that's going to get people to

things that's going to get people to turn on him. Even though these are

turn on him. Even though these are people that maybe loved him or wanted

people that maybe loved him or wanted him to be the Lord Commander, it's all

him to be the Lord Commander, it's all these different things that you have

these different things that you have working in tandem. You know, we're going

working in tandem. You know, we're going to see the Wild Link plot really kick

to see the Wild Link plot really kick off, you know, after this chapter

off, you know, after this chapter specifically. You're going to have him

specifically. You're going to have him kind of meddling in northern politics

kind of meddling in northern politics with the carstark situation. You're

with the carstark situation. You're going to have him taking loans. You're

going to have him taking loans. You're going to have him sending away his, you

going to have him sending away his, you know, closest allies and friends. You're

know, closest allies and friends. You're going to have him doing all these

going to have him doing all these different things that just add up. And

different things that just add up. And this is just one of those things that I

this is just one of those things that I find to be very interesting because it

find to be very interesting because it is the Iron Bank and we don't really get

is the Iron Bank and we don't really get to see them all that much. And so

to see them all that much. And so eventually they do settle on terms, but

eventually they do settle on terms, but we do see as the tension begins to go up

we do see as the tension begins to go up again because Jon talks with Axel

again because Jon talks with Axel Florent about Val, which they both know

Florent about Val, which they both know he doesn't have. And later he is woken

he doesn't have. And later he is woken up to find a girl on a dying horse has

up to find a girl on a dying horse has arrived. And Jon thinks about Arya, what

arrived. And Jon thinks about Arya, what he can do with her. Maybe sending her to

he can do with her. Maybe sending her to Essos to be, you know, harbored by

Essos to be, you know, harbored by somebody over there, sending him back

somebody over there, sending him back with the Iron Bank, all of those things

with the Iron Bank, all of those things until he realizes it isn't Arya Stark at

until he realizes it isn't Arya Stark at all. And he seems to recognize the girl,

all. And he seems to recognize the girl, but he can't place it at first. But when

but he can't place it at first. But when we get the reveal that is Alice Karst

we get the reveal that is Alice Karst Stark, it changes everything because on

Stark, it changes everything because on one hand we find out that Stannis is

one hand we find out that Stannis is being played as a fool by the Kar Starks

being played as a fool by the Kar Starks and two we get to see this kind of

and two we get to see this kind of interesting relationship between Jon and

interesting relationship between Jon and Alice because the two have very good

Alice because the two have very good chemistry. The two seem like if things

chemistry. The two seem like if things had gone differently, maybe they would

had gone differently, maybe they would have been the ones, you know, getting

have been the ones, you know, getting getting married, right? The two have

getting married, right? The two have really good banter and just not only

really good banter and just not only just this chapter, but the next chapter,

just this chapter, but the next chapter, it's interesting because Jon has such

it's interesting because Jon has such great relationships in my opinion with

great relationships in my opinion with both Alice and Val that it is kind of

both Alice and Val that it is kind of crazy. Jon's definitely got some women

crazy. Jon's definitely got some women that I think like him a lot. But yeah,

that I think like him a lot. But yeah, but it kind of does the next part of it,

but it kind of does the next part of it, right? It kind of does this next, okay,

right? It kind of does this next, okay, now Jon is actually going to get

now Jon is actually going to get involved in some of the northern

involved in some of the northern politics. As much as he wants to say

politics. As much as he wants to say that he's out of those things, he is

that he's out of those things, he is getting involved with it, right? He's

getting involved with it, right? He's getting involved with Stannis more and

getting involved with Stannis more and trying to help him. He's getting more

trying to help him. He's getting more involved with the Carst Stark situation,

involved with the Carst Stark situation, who Alice is eventually going to marry.

who Alice is eventually going to marry. All of that is very crucial in my

All of that is very crucial in my opinion. And I really do think this

opinion. And I really do think this chapter is great because it kind of

chapter is great because it kind of takes it into the last stretch of the

takes it into the last stretch of the book and sets all up and sets up all

book and sets all up and sets up all those things really, really well. That

those things really, really well. That gets us to chapter 46, Arya 1. And so

gets us to chapter 46, Arya 1. And so this chapter, in my opinion, is kind of

this chapter, in my opinion, is kind of the quintessential chapter for when I

the quintessential chapter for when I was younger and my first, you know,

was younger and my first, you know, reread or two uh of the books. I had

reread or two uh of the books. I had Dance Above Feast for Crows. I think if

Dance Above Feast for Crows. I think if you go back to my earliest, you know,

you go back to my earliest, you know, rankings of the books on this channel, I

rankings of the books on this channel, I might say Dance Above Feast. I don't

might say Dance Above Feast. I don't think my opinion on Feast for Crows

think my opinion on Feast for Crows really changed until I did the

really changed until I did the retrospective, and that's when I think I

retrospective, and that's when I think I I changed on that opinion. But this was

I changed on that opinion. But this was a chapter where it kind of this and the

a chapter where it kind of this and the next Arya chapter really complete Arya's

next Arya chapter really complete Arya's kind of journey from both Feast for

kind of journey from both Feast for Crows and Dance. And this is kind of why

Crows and Dance. And this is kind of why I think Feast for Crows at times, it

I think Feast for Crows at times, it gets kind of almost outdone by Dance

gets kind of almost outdone by Dance because Dance gets a lot of the

because Dance gets a lot of the conclusions to those characters that

conclusions to those characters that should have probably been in Feast for

should have probably been in Feast for Crows. Because George is trying to keep

Crows. Because George is trying to keep the timeline somewhat coherent because

the timeline somewhat coherent because you have the POVs of one book and the PO

you have the POVs of one book and the PO POVs of another book. You have

POVs of another book. You have situations like this where you only see

situations like this where you only see maybe one Arya one or two Arya chapters

maybe one Arya one or two Arya chapters or you know one or two Cersei chapters

or you know one or two Cersei chapters or things like that. But I really love

or things like that. But I really love this Arya chapter. I do think both of

this Arya chapter. I do think both of her chapters in this book are better

her chapters in this book are better than all three of her chapters in Feast

than all three of her chapters in Feast for Crows. But we see when we catch up

for Crows. But we see when we catch up with her that some time has passed as

with her that some time has passed as she has become blind Beth. She she

she has become blind Beth. She she continues to have dreams of Nimria and

continues to have dreams of Nimria and that's actually that's actually the very

that's actually that's actually the very open to this chapter is her dreaming of

open to this chapter is her dreaming of Nimria and being able to you know see

Nimria and being able to you know see and all those things but we see that

and all those things but we see that because she's become blind she's having

because she's become blind she's having more heightened senses right you know

more heightened senses right you know counting the steps and and touching and

counting the steps and and touching and smelling and hearing all those things

smelling and hearing all those things become very much enhanced and those

become very much enhanced and those things actually also seem to enhance her

things actually also seem to enhance her waring powers and I almost find it

waring powers and I almost find it interesting that maybe the faceless men

interesting that maybe the faceless men know that and they're using that right

know that and they're using that right They they particularly trying to open up

They they particularly trying to open up those abilities cuz they'd be very

those abilities cuz they'd be very useful for a faceless man. It seems like

useful for a faceless man. It seems like they know that which is also interesting

they know that which is also interesting because this chapter really starts to

because this chapter really starts to really delve into the magical elements

really delve into the magical elements of the faceless man. I'd say the next

of the faceless man. I'd say the next chapter way more than this one. But it's

chapter way more than this one. But it's those things that I think were lacking

those things that I think were lacking in a feast for crows from taking Arya to

in a feast for crows from taking Arya to being some of the best chapters of that

being some of the best chapters of that book is because we were still

book is because we were still introducing the phase of spin. We were

introducing the phase of spin. We were still introducing Arya into this plot

still introducing Arya into this plot line. This is where we start to get some

line. This is where we start to get some of those payoffs. And I find that really

of those payoffs. And I find that really interesting. And so basically what the

interesting. And so basically what the Kindly Man and the Facesman are trying

Kindly Man and the Facesman are trying to do is they're trying to mold her,

to do is they're trying to mold her, right? They're trying to get her to get

right? They're trying to get her to get rid of the Arya side of her to not kill

rid of the Arya side of her to not kill like she did with Daron or and

like she did with Daron or and especially in the next next chapter, not

especially in the next next chapter, not questioning who she's being told to

questioning who she's being told to kill, right? It's not about the

kill, right? It's not about the reasoning of why you're killing them.

reasoning of why you're killing them. It's just they need to die. The god of

It's just they need to die. The god of death is requiring his that person's

death is requiring his that person's death. And so that's what they're trying

death. And so that's what they're trying to instill in here. And we do learn a

to instill in here. And we do learn a couple interesting things. You know, as

couple interesting things. You know, as Arya is basically being sent out as

Arya is basically being sent out as blind bath to find new informations, we

blind bath to find new informations, we do find that one of the ships that had

do find that one of the ships that had been carrying wildlings from Hardome was

been carrying wildlings from Hardome was caught by the seaord of Braavos as he

caught by the seaord of Braavos as he was as they were trying to sell the

was as they were trying to sell the wildlings as slaves, which is

wildlings as slaves, which is interesting. Nice little tidbit showing

interesting. Nice little tidbit showing what was kind of going on with that plot

what was kind of going on with that plot line with Hardome before it's going to

line with Hardome before it's going to get really bad. But when she returns to

get really bad. But when she returns to the temple, we also get another

the temple, we also get another revelation. She learned to see through

revelation. She learned to see through the cat to figure out that the kindly

the cat to figure out that the kindly one was the one who had been hitting her

one was the one who had been hitting her earlier in the day. She says that's one

earlier in the day. She says that's one of the things she's found out. And I

of the things she's found out. And I don't mean that she tells the kindly man

don't mean that she tells the kindly man that, but she figures it out and that's

that, but she figures it out and that's what we know in her head. But it's

what we know in her head. But it's interesting because it shows us that

interesting because it shows us that Arya is learning to ward things outside

Arya is learning to ward things outside of just Nimriia. Something that we

of just Nimriia. Something that we haven't seen, you know, any real

haven't seen, you know, any real characters outside of like Brian be able

characters outside of like Brian be able to do. just shows you, and this is

to do. just shows you, and this is something that the show completely

something that the show completely didn't do, is going into more of the

didn't do, is going into more of the magical powers of the Stark kids. And I

magical powers of the Stark kids. And I find that very, very compelling in this.

find that very, very compelling in this. As we go forward into it, we also see

As we go forward into it, we also see things in this chapter like how hard it

things in this chapter like how hard it was to continue, you know, being this

was to continue, you know, being this blind girl at so many times she thought

blind girl at so many times she thought about, you know, leaving the temple

about, you know, leaving the temple because they would tell her, you know,

because they would tell her, you know, if she wants her vision back, all she

if she wants her vision back, all she has to do is say so and they'll give her

has to do is say so and they'll give her her eyes back, but then she'll be forced

her eyes back, but then she'll be forced to leave. And so I really love that

to leave. And so I really love that element of the story. It has tension to

element of the story. It has tension to it. It has unease. It has a magical

it. It has unease. It has a magical element and feel to it. But she

element and feel to it. But she eventually does get her sight seeing a

eventually does get her sight seeing a candle in front of her. Again, I love

candle in front of her. Again, I love the chapter. I I think it's a pretty

the chapter. I I think it's a pretty good one. I I don't think it's like in

good one. I I don't think it's like in my top chapters of the book or anything.

my top chapters of the book or anything. I think Arya 2, which we will get, is in

I think Arya 2, which we will get, is in my top 10 of the book, but Arya 1 is

my top 10 of the book, but Arya 1 is definitely I'd say an above average

definitely I'd say an above average chapter in this book. I have it ranked

chapter in this book. I have it ranked on my chapter rankings at 30 and there's

on my chapter rankings at 30 and there's a possible 73 chapters in this book. So

a possible 73 chapters in this book. So top 30 pretty solid. Both of her

top 30 pretty solid. Both of her chapters are in my top 30 with Arya 2

chapters are in my top 30 with Arya 2 eventually going to be in my top 10. But

eventually going to be in my top 10. But yeah, so that'll get us into chapter 47,

yeah, so that'll get us into chapter 47, Theon 6. So like I've said for pretty

Theon 6. So like I've said for pretty much every single Theon chapter,

much every single Theon chapter, all of them could be your favorite. And

all of them could be your favorite. And that doesn't change with Theon 6. I

that doesn't change with Theon 6. I personally have Theon 6 as the best

personally have Theon 6 as the best chapter of the first six for Theon.

chapter of the first six for Theon. Again, I talked about a lot for me. As

Again, I talked about a lot for me. As each Theon chapter we get, I think each

each Theon chapter we get, I think each one builds upon and gets better. Um,

one builds upon and gets better. Um, we're going to talk about Theon 7 as

we're going to talk about Theon 7 as well in this video, which will be his

well in this video, which will be his last chapter. And to me, it's his best

last chapter. And to me, it's his best chapter. And I'll talk about why that is

chapter. And I'll talk about why that is when we get there. But again, it builds

when we get there. But again, it builds off of what we got in the last chapter.

off of what we got in the last chapter. where the last chapter was. We kind of

where the last chapter was. We kind of start at Winterfell and there's this

start at Winterfell and there's this sense of security, safety, and as the

sense of security, safety, and as the chapter goes on, the tension builds

chapter goes on, the tension builds more, the weather starts getting worse.

more, the weather starts getting worse. People are starting to kind of feel the

People are starting to kind of feel the effects, especially, you know, the

effects, especially, you know, the phrase, for instance, because they're

phrase, for instance, because they're from the south. And so, this chapter

from the south. And so, this chapter takes what was just alluding towards

takes what was just alluding towards that tension and has it kind of explode.

that tension and has it kind of explode. We see a number of different things

We see a number of different things happen. Firstly, we see as we see slowly

happen. Firstly, we see as we see slowly as there are multiple murders occurring,

as there are multiple murders occurring, each more unsettling than the last. And

each more unsettling than the last. And these are still up for debate. Some

these are still up for debate. Some maybe being the spear wives, some maybe

maybe being the spear wives, some maybe being this hooded man that Theon sees,

being this hooded man that Theon sees, even another one of those being one of

even another one of those being one of the Walders. So, there's a lot kind of

the Walders. So, there's a lot kind of going on here, but we do see Yellow Dick

going on here, but we do see Yellow Dick being one of Ramsay's companions is

being one of Ramsay's companions is brutally killed. this with the fact that

brutally killed. this with the fact that they are wary of Stannis attacking at

they are wary of Stannis attacking at any point. The tension comes to a

any point. The tension comes to a boiling point as the lords begin to turn

boiling point as the lords begin to turn on each other only being stopped by Lady

on each other only being stopped by Lady Dustin and Lord Risewell. But my

Dustin and Lord Risewell. But my favorite little moment of this chapter

favorite little moment of this chapter in my opinion is when Theon who's

in my opinion is when Theon who's watching all of this stuff going on, he

watching all of this stuff going on, he sees almost a rare slight of fear in

sees almost a rare slight of fear in Roose's eyes. Zus is kind of seeing his

Roose's eyes. Zus is kind of seeing his army is splitting and already he has num

army is splitting and already he has num he already is suspicious of many of the

he already is suspicious of many of the lords here especially Lord Manderly this

lords here especially Lord Manderly this is going to make it even more further

is going to make it even more further when people are going disappearing and

when people are going disappearing and people are dying randomly it's not a

people are dying randomly it's not a coincidence there's sabotage being done

coincidence there's sabotage being done but Theon is later questioned was

but Theon is later questioned was basically seen in the whereabouts he's

basically seen in the whereabouts he's always wandering the castle so he is a

always wandering the castle so he is a suspect but he's basically swiftly

suspect but he's basically swiftly dismissed due to his condition again

dismissed due to his condition again he's not strong enough to be killing

he's not strong enough to be killing people very easily or overpowering

people very easily or overpowering people to begin with. And so Theon goes

people to begin with. And so Theon goes to the Weirwoods in the Godswood to pray

to the Weirwoods in the Godswood to pray when he hears a horn. And presumably

when he hears a horn. And presumably this is meant to announce Stannis. It's

this is meant to announce Stannis. It's not really. It's it's Moore's umber. Uh

not really. It's it's Moore's umber. Uh but everybody else doesn't know that.

but everybody else doesn't know that. They believe that this is Stannis and

They believe that this is Stannis and then he's finally arrived at Winterfell.

then he's finally arrived at Winterfell. Again, the tension builds because

Again, the tension builds because already inside of the castle, they're

already inside of the castle, they're not doing well. But now outside of the

not doing well. But now outside of the castle, you have a force that has made

castle, you have a force that has made it to Winterfell. All the while Theon

it to Winterfell. All the while Theon seems to be, you know, praying. He

seems to be, you know, praying. He starts to hear his name. It seems to be

starts to hear his name. It seems to be whispering Theon, but it also seems to

whispering Theon, but it also seems to be Bran. Theon kind of sees Bran in the

be Bran. Theon kind of sees Bran in the tree and it seems to be maybe his voice.

tree and it seems to be maybe his voice. All of this is very interesting given

All of this is very interesting given what we know about Bran at this point of

what we know about Bran at this point of the story and we haven't seen a Bran POV

the story and we haven't seen a Bran POV in actually a very long time now at this

in actually a very long time now at this point. And so this is all very

point. And so this is all very interesting and speculation at can Bran,

interesting and speculation at can Bran, you know, talk to other characters

you know, talk to other characters through the trees and it seems to be the

through the trees and it seems to be the case. We we'll see how that affects the

case. We we'll see how that affects the story going forward. But at the last

story going forward. But at the last part of this, he is set upon by three of

part of this, he is set upon by three of the washerwoman who need his help. And

the washerwoman who need his help. And we know this is going to be to try and

we know this is going to be to try and get Jane Pull, who they believe is Arya

get Jane Pull, who they believe is Arya Stark, out of Winterfell and getting her

Stark, out of Winterfell and getting her to Jon or it's going to end up being

to Jon or it's going to end up being Stannis. But that is what they're trying

Stannis. But that is what they're trying to do. And so we'll see how that plot

to do. And so we'll see how that plot line kind of ends with Theon 7. But to

line kind of ends with Theon 7. But to me personally, really great tra

me personally, really great tra because there's a lot of mystery and

because there's a lot of mystery and intrigue that we are still kind of

intrigue that we are still kind of thinking about even in our theories

thinking about even in our theories today about how Winds of Winter is going

today about how Winds of Winter is going to wrap them up, especially with a lot

to wrap them up, especially with a lot of the killings, the the hooded man for

of the killings, the the hooded man for instance, the Mance uh stuff, how that's

instance, the Mance uh stuff, how that's all going to play out with the pink

all going to play out with the pink letter. A lot of intrigue here and it

letter. A lot of intrigue here and it kind of builds into the finale for Theon

kind of builds into the finale for Theon uh as a character in POV. Chapter number

uh as a character in POV. Chapter number 48 we have is Tyrion 10. Now, I noted in

48 we have is Tyrion 10. Now, I noted in my notes uh that Tyrion 10 of a lot of

my notes uh that Tyrion 10 of a lot of the chapters we've gotten post Young

the chapters we've gotten post Young Griff, I would say this is probably one

Griff, I would say this is probably one of the better ones. I still don't think

of the better ones. I still don't think it's like a great chapter or anything

it's like a great chapter or anything because I have most of Tyrion's chapters

because I have most of Tyrion's chapters or I'd say not most, but I'd say all of

or I'd say not most, but I'd say all of the ones kind of post Young Griff are

the ones kind of post Young Griff are really under they're probably like in

really under they're probably like in that bottom 15 to 20 chapters. This one

that bottom 15 to 20 chapters. This one would just be on kind of like that

would just be on kind of like that higher end, I I would say. And so when I

higher end, I I would say. And so when I look at this chapter, it's the reason

look at this chapter, it's the reason that I think it's a bit better than some

that I think it's a bit better than some of the past chapters is we actually get

of the past chapters is we actually get to see Tyrion being an interesting POV.

to see Tyrion being an interesting POV. You know, what made him interesting in

You know, what made him interesting in the past, right? Him being able to

the past, right? Him being able to outsmart situations or out think things.

outsmart situations or out think things. And so we see him being sold into

And so we see him being sold into slavery. And we're also able to see him

slavery. And we're also able to see him kind of seeing what people are

kind of seeing what people are interested in him and even recognizing

interested in him and even recognizing this maybe this Brown Ben Plum character

this maybe this Brown Ben Plum character who he asks about later and has an

who he asks about later and has an interaction with at the end of this uh

interaction with at the end of this uh chapter. But you also see him

chapter. But you also see him manipulating getting Jorah to be part of

manipulating getting Jorah to be part of their act. And so you have a lot of

their act. And so you have a lot of stuff that's really interesting because

stuff that's really interesting because you see Tyrion being in an element where

you see Tyrion being in an element where he can use the things that make him so

he can use the things that make him so interesting to read. And so that part of

interesting to read. And so that part of it is interesting. And also you have

it is interesting. And also you have this actual idea of okay, we've never

this actual idea of okay, we've never actually really seen a POV who's, you

actually really seen a POV who's, you know, being a slave. We've seen Daenerys

know, being a slave. We've seen Daenerys being a POV where she is someone that is

being a POV where she is someone that is freeing slaves, but she's not herself a

freeing slaves, but she's not herself a slave necessarily. Um, and so we do get

slave necessarily. Um, and so we do get to see this side of it that, you know,

to see this side of it that, you know, showing that slavery, how bad it is. And

showing that slavery, how bad it is. And so part of that is interesting. I just

so part of that is interesting. I just don't feel like it's that necessary

don't feel like it's that necessary given the fact that we do have such a

given the fact that we do have such a big focus on it from Daenerys and really

big focus on it from Daenerys and really the last two books that I feel like,

the last two books that I feel like, yes, I don't mind it and I actually do

yes, I don't mind it and I actually do find that to be interesting with Tyrion.

find that to be interesting with Tyrion. I almost don't feel like we need it

I almost don't feel like we need it because of all the plot lines at at this

because of all the plot lines at at this point of the story, it's the weakest. I

point of the story, it's the weakest. I don't know how I feel about it. And so

don't know how I feel about it. And so Tyrion to me is like I can understand

Tyrion to me is like I can understand why George made the chapter and and it

why George made the chapter and and it is a chapter that needs to I guess be

is a chapter that needs to I guess be told, but I do feel like especially this

told, but I do feel like especially this plotline going forward. A lot of it

plotline going forward. A lot of it almost isn't really needed. Um you could

almost isn't really needed. Um you could really tell this through maybe one

really tell this through maybe one Tyrion chapter instead of having a

Tyrion chapter instead of having a number of of more Tyrion chapters left.

number of of more Tyrion chapters left. We we're not even close to the end of

We we're not even close to the end of his plotline really. And so I like it,

his plotline really. And so I like it, but I don't like it at the same time.

but I don't like it at the same time. And so we do see um as Tyrion and Penny

And so we do see um as Tyrion and Penny have to do their show uh for the slavers

have to do their show uh for the slavers and they're serving wine and eventually

and they're serving wine and eventually we see Tyrion playing SAS against Brown

we see Tyrion playing SAS against Brown Ben Plum which is quite interesting. I

Ben Plum which is quite interesting. I think it's probably my favorite part of

think it's probably my favorite part of the chapter and part of it is because I

the chapter and part of it is because I actually really like the character of

actually really like the character of Brown Ben Plum and I just enjoy when we

Brown Ben Plum and I just enjoy when we get to see him more and that's something

get to see him more and that's something that's even more apparent when we get to

that's even more apparent when we get to Daenerys's next chapter. I like seeing

Daenerys's next chapter. I like seeing her conversation with him. But again,

her conversation with him. But again, it's definitely a chapter that's a step

it's definitely a chapter that's a step up from the quality of the Tyrion

up from the quality of the Tyrion chapters in the last couple. But it's

chapters in the last couple. But it's still kind of eh in terms of the story

still kind of eh in terms of the story lines that we already have right now.

lines that we already have right now. Like I'd rather read a plot line about

Like I'd rather read a plot line about the North. I'd rather read some of these

the North. I'd rather read some of these other POVs we're getting from Dance. Um

other POVs we're getting from Dance. Um I'd rather read, you know, Danny if

I'd rather read, you know, Danny if we're just talking about the marine plot

we're just talking about the marine plot at this point. Um so yeah, I don't know.

at this point. Um so yeah, I don't know. Kind of a mixed chapter to me for Tyrion

Kind of a mixed chapter to me for Tyrion 10. Number 49. Another big surprise. We

10. Number 49. Another big surprise. We see another character from Feast for

see another character from Feast for Crows getting one chapter. This is the

Crows getting one chapter. This is the only chapter Jaime gets in Dance of

only chapter Jaime gets in Dance of Dragons. And I honestly think

Dragons. And I honestly think George has some big balls for this.

George has some big balls for this. Given that Jaime is the best POV of A

Given that Jaime is the best POV of A Feast for Crows and could be argued is

Feast for Crows and could be argued is the best POV of a Storm of Swords.

the best POV of a Storm of Swords. That's not my uh take, but people do

That's not my uh take, but people do some people do think that and so I can't

some people do think that and so I can't really fault you for that. But you give

really fault you for that. But you give us one chapter here and what we do get

us one chapter here and what we do get is fantastic. It's not Jaime's best

is fantastic. It's not Jaime's best chapter. I think he has better chapters

chapter. I think he has better chapters in A Feast for Crows, but I do think

in A Feast for Crows, but I do think it's a really strong one. It's a really

it's a really strong one. It's a really good chapter. None of Jaime's chapters

good chapter. None of Jaime's chapters are bad in Feast for Crows. He was

are bad in Feast for Crows. He was always consistently having all the

always consistently having all the chapters ranked in the top half of a

chapters ranked in the top half of a Feast for Crows. But to me, what we get

Feast for Crows. But to me, what we get with this chapter is we're seeing this

with this chapter is we're seeing this siege that's being done on the

siege that's being done on the Blackwoods by the Brackens. It's Jaime

Blackwoods by the Brackens. It's Jaime arriving and kind of settling the

arriving and kind of settling the conflict because the war really is over.

conflict because the war really is over. I mean, at this time, Riverrun has

I mean, at this time, Riverrun has fallen. There doesn't really look like

fallen. There doesn't really look like any chance that the Lannisters are going

any chance that the Lannisters are going to be taken down at this point. Uh we

to be taken down at this point. Uh we know it's probably going to happen at

know it's probably going to happen at some point, but at this time, yeah, it

some point, but at this time, yeah, it feels like the war is over. So, the

feels like the war is over. So, the Blackwoods need to be dealt with, and

Blackwoods need to be dealt with, and the Brackens have already bent the knee

the Brackens have already bent the knee rather quickly that Jaime kind of notes.

rather quickly that Jaime kind of notes. And so, it's Jaime having to deal with

And so, it's Jaime having to deal with the two families. This chapter is almost

the two families. This chapter is almost completely about the Blackwood and

completely about the Blackwood and Bracken conflict. We get a lot of our

Bracken conflict. We get a lot of our history about what actually maybe

history about what actually maybe occurred in the past with both houses.

occurred in the past with both houses. And the moral of the story here is, you

And the moral of the story here is, you know, you you have two families that

know, you you have two families that hate each other generationally, right?

hate each other generationally, right? And it almost feels like for no reason,

And it almost feels like for no reason, neither one of the histories are really

neither one of the histories are really recorded that well. They could be

recorded that well. They could be blurred together. We really don't know

blurred together. We really don't know what the true history of the Blackwoods

what the true history of the Blackwoods and Brackens are. So these two sides

and Brackens are. So these two sides could be fighting over, you know, petty

could be fighting over, you know, petty things that happened in the past and

things that happened in the past and that creates more issues, right? You

that creates more issues, right? You think about characters like Blood Raven

think about characters like Blood Raven and Bittersteel. those characters hate

and Bittersteel. those characters hate each other because of certain things

each other because of certain things that did happen during that time, but

that did happen during that time, but also a lot of their hatred was built

also a lot of their hatred was built upon things that happened generations

upon things that happened generations and generations ago. And so, it's this

and generations ago. And so, it's this pointless conflict in a lot of ways.

pointless conflict in a lot of ways. It's George writing about this pointless

It's George writing about this pointless conflict that leads to violence

conflict that leads to violence continually.

continually. And so, I find that aspect of this to be

And so, I find that aspect of this to be really interesting. It's also uh kind of

really interesting. It's also uh kind of interesting to see how Jaime deals with

interesting to see how Jaime deals with Lord Blackwood, somebody that has been

Lord Blackwood, somebody that has been in the story um really since book one.

in the story um really since book one. It's interesting to see how he deals

It's interesting to see how he deals with him and also dealing with Lord

with him and also dealing with Lord Bracken as well. Really awesome to see

Bracken as well. Really awesome to see how Jaime works through all those

how Jaime works through all those things. But then he leaves us on a

things. But then he leaves us on a massive cliffhanger. And I mean a

massive cliffhanger. And I mean a massive cliffhanger. I think of all of

massive cliffhanger. I think of all of the story lines that ends in this book.

the story lines that ends in this book. This is the one that you're almost like

This is the one that you're almost like wow. It's kind of surprising George

wow. It's kind of surprising George didn't give us more here. Especially

didn't give us more here. Especially what we know with A Feast for Crows,

what we know with A Feast for Crows, right? Where Brienne's storyline ends

right? Where Brienne's storyline ends there and with Lady Stoneheart. we see

there and with Lady Stoneheart. we see Brienne, you know, pop up here with

Brienne, you know, pop up here with Jaime and that's just how it ends,

Jaime and that's just how it ends, right? The two are going to go off um

right? The two are going to go off um alone and all of that. And it's a really

alone and all of that. And it's a really great cliffhanger because, you know, you

great cliffhanger because, you know, you really want to see more of it, but at

really want to see more of it, but at the same time, it's like, man,

the same time, it's like, man, um I could not imagine reading A Dance

um I could not imagine reading A Dance of Dragons when it first came out and

of Dragons when it first came out and now you've waited, you know, however

now you've waited, you know, however many years, and we still have not gotten

many years, and we still have not gotten any answers to that at all. Yeah, great

any answers to that at all. Yeah, great chapter by Jamie, of course. Um, but

chapter by Jamie, of course. Um, but yeah, it's very very ballsy in my

yeah, it's very very ballsy in my opinion that George gave us one chapter

opinion that George gave us one chapter of Jaime and then we do not see him for

of Jaime and then we do not see him for the rest of the book. He does that a lot

the rest of the book. He does that a lot a lot with his POVs in this book. You

a lot with his POVs in this book. You know, for instance, Bran Davos, two of

know, for instance, Bran Davos, two of my favorite POVs in the first half of

my favorite POVs in the first half of the book, they disappear. Um, Jamie pops

the book, they disappear. Um, Jamie pops up once, second half of the book, don't

up once, second half of the book, don't see him again. So, he does that quite a

see him again. So, he does that quite a lot with a lot of the POVs in the book.

lot with a lot of the POVs in the book. But, um, yeah, great chatter by Jamie.

But, um, yeah, great chatter by Jamie. Let's move on to number 50, John 10. So

Let's move on to number 50, John 10. So John 10 builds off of what we got in

John 10 builds off of what we got in John 9 where we're seeing the fallout of

John 9 where we're seeing the fallout of the Karst Stark plotline. We see Alice

the Karst Stark plotline. We see Alice Karst Stark and Sigorn who is the leader

Karst Stark and Sigorn who is the leader of the Fens at this time. He they are

of the Fens at this time. He they are being married together and it's kind of

being married together and it's kind of very interesting because you have this

very interesting because you have this mixed support. It's continually showing

mixed support. It's continually showing how the Nights Watch does not approve of

how the Nights Watch does not approve of what Jon's doing. Jon is at this time

what Jon's doing. Jon is at this time isolating many of the people of the

isolating many of the people of the Nights Watch where at this wedding we

Nights Watch where at this wedding we see a lot of the Queen's men because for

see a lot of the Queen's men because for now they kind of do like what Jon's

now they kind of do like what Jon's doing, right? You're uniting a northern

doing, right? You're uniting a northern house with the wildlings and all those

house with the wildlings and all those things, but they're not going to have a

things, but they're not going to have a great relationship in the future. And so

great relationship in the future. And so a little bit of that is foreshadowed

a little bit of that is foreshadowed here once again with Axel Florent. But

here once again with Axel Florent. But yeah, and then we also see that Jon has

yeah, and then we also see that Jon has almost no support. There's no Nights

almost no support. There's no Nights Watchmen really here whatsoever.

Watchmen really here whatsoever. And so it's interesting to see how John

And so it's interesting to see how John also was kind of playing northern

also was kind of playing northern politics like he's trying to say oh yeah

politics like he's trying to say oh yeah he's not you know taking any side or

he's not you know taking any side or whatnot but at the same time he is he's

whatnot but at the same time he is he's arranging this marriage between Alice

arranging this marriage between Alice and Sigorn and also he's taking Stark

and Sigorn and also he's taking Stark captive now he does have some precedent

captive now he does have some precedent that he's trying to use you know Alice

that he's trying to use you know Alice Karst Stark came to them and here's

Karst Stark came to them and here's Craig and Stark trying to take her

Craig and Stark trying to take her against you know her against her will

against you know her against her will you know that is you know a crime but

you know that is you know a crime but the way people are going view the

the way people are going view the situation is they're going to look at it

situation is they're going to look at it from an outside point of view. You don't

from an outside point of view. You don't have all the information. You're going

have all the information. You're going to say, "Oh, yeah, the Night's Watch is

to say, "Oh, yeah, the Night's Watch is helping Stannis or it's going against,

helping Stannis or it's going against, you know, Creek and Carstark." So, I

you know, Creek and Carstark." So, I look at all this information and I find

look at all this information and I find that very interesting because, you know,

that very interesting because, you know, for one, Jon is playing politics that

for one, Jon is playing politics that it's kind of working against him, right?

it's kind of working against him, right? People are slowly becoming more and more

People are slowly becoming more and more against him and he's losing support to

against him and he's losing support to do these actions. And we're going to see

do these actions. And we're going to see that kind of falling out in the next

that kind of falling out in the next couple chapters. But we do see this

couple chapters. But we do see this marriage and in a lot of ways it kind of

marriage and in a lot of ways it kind of feels like this uneasy bright moment for

feels like this uneasy bright moment for this late part of the Jon storyline

this late part of the Jon storyline where everything that we're hearing in

where everything that we're hearing in Jon story line is kind of not good right

Jon story line is kind of not good right you can tell there's some sort of

you can tell there's some sort of conflict coming between the wildlings

conflict coming between the wildlings and the night watch and you kind of feel

and the night watch and you kind of feel that boiling over and so when you have

that boiling over and so when you have that coming into it but you also have

that coming into it but you also have this marriage which is kind of a happy

this marriage which is kind of a happy marriage right Alice seems to at least

marriage right Alice seems to at least be happy trying to get Sigorn to open up

be happy trying to get Sigorn to open up and this interesting alliance and Alice

and this interesting alliance and Alice just as a character is very fascinating.

just as a character is very fascinating. I I really enjoy the character of Alice.

I I really enjoy the character of Alice. Again, her and Jon have really good

Again, her and Jon have really good chemistry in these chapters. And so you

chemistry in these chapters. And so you do have this happy moment in the face of

do have this happy moment in the face of impending doom for Jon. And it also

impending doom for Jon. And it also really boils over when you have Axel

really boils over when you have Axel Floren once again talking about Val to

Floren once again talking about Val to Jon when we hear a horn blow to say that

Jon when we hear a horn blow to say that Val has returned. So again, this chapter

Val has returned. So again, this chapter really does a great job of building off

really does a great job of building off of the re reveal of the last John

of the re reveal of the last John chapter and also pushing kind of the

chapter and also pushing kind of the story forward and moving us into uh

story forward and moving us into uh really the last couple chapters. John

really the last couple chapters. John has, I believe, three chapters after

has, I believe, three chapters after this. So really good chapter from John.

this. So really good chapter from John. Um I don't think it's like top 20 or

Um I don't think it's like top 20 or anything like that, but it's definitely

anything like that, but it's definitely a solid one. At number 51, we get into

a solid one. At number 51, we get into Danny 8. So Danny 8 is really weird

Danny 8. So Danny 8 is really weird because it has the issue of coming right

because it has the issue of coming right before Danny's really big chapter which

before Danny's really big chapter which is Danny 9. It's one of the best

is Danny 9. It's one of the best chapters of the book and it also doesn't

chapters of the book and it also doesn't have a lot for Daenerys to really do

have a lot for Daenerys to really do right and so in a lot of ways I don't

right and so in a lot of ways I don't feel like this is a bad chapter for

feel like this is a bad chapter for Daenerys but again it's not a good

Daenerys but again it's not a good chapter for Daenerys either. I just

chapter for Daenerys either. I just think it's very middle of the pack. And

think it's very middle of the pack. And so this chapter really follows these

so this chapter really follows these Yunkai like peace talks, right? Where

Yunkai like peace talks, right? Where hisdar is entertaining the Junkish and

hisdar is entertaining the Junkish and Daenerys is just kind of sitting back

Daenerys is just kind of sitting back just observing. It's not a lot that

just observing. It's not a lot that she's doing in this chapter in terms of

she's doing in this chapter in terms of actions, right? And so a lot of this

actions, right? And so a lot of this chapter, it's just kind of, you know,

chapter, it's just kind of, you know, whatever there, you know, it's her

whatever there, you know, it's her looking at the Junkish flaunting, you

looking at the Junkish flaunting, you know, their slaves and all flaunting

know, their slaves and all flaunting things in Daenerys's face, seeing how

things in Daenerys's face, seeing how much she'll take, see if she will maybe

much she'll take, see if she will maybe break the piece, which she ends up kind

break the piece, which she ends up kind of doing in the next chapter, not of her

of doing in the next chapter, not of her own decisions, but because of Drogon,

own decisions, but because of Drogon, but still. And so you see, you know,

but still. And so you see, you know, Hizdar playing the king role, Daenerys

Hizdar playing the king role, Daenerys just allowing it to happen. And Daenerys

just allowing it to happen. And Daenerys is kind of just sulking about this. But

is kind of just sulking about this. But the best two moments of the chapter are

the best two moments of the chapter are definitely when Daenerys is able to

definitely when Daenerys is able to actually do something and having

actually do something and having conversations with people. And so we see

conversations with people. And so we see her having a conversation with Brown Ben

her having a conversation with Brown Ben Plum. And it's interesting because Brown

Plum. And it's interesting because Brown Ben Plum tells her straight up like the

Ben Plum tells her straight up like the reason, you know, we went against you is

reason, you know, we went against you is not because we don't like you. It's

not because we don't like you. It's because, you know, you are looking like

because, you know, you are looking like you're on the losing slide. You're not,

you're on the losing slide. You're not, you know, being able to control your

you know, being able to control your dragons, which is the thing that's going

dragons, which is the thing that's going to make you, you know, you're a

to make you, you know, you're a conqueror. And so he says those things.

conqueror. And so he says those things. And so you can see that yeah, Brown Ben

And so you can see that yeah, Brown Ben Plum is somebody that would be open to

Plum is somebody that would be open to maybe coming back to Daenerys's side

maybe coming back to Daenerys's side like Tyrion inevitably, you know,

like Tyrion inevitably, you know, convinced him to do in the next couple

convinced him to do in the next couple chapters. But at the same time, you can

chapters. But at the same time, you can see that Daenerys is going against her

see that Daenerys is going against her Targaryen side, something Quaith told

Targaryen side, something Quaith told her to not do. Remember who she is.

her to not do. Remember who she is. That's something that she's going to

That's something that she's going to have to realize in Danny 10 and Danny 9,

have to realize in Danny 10 and Danny 9, I guess, as well. And then the other

I guess, as well. And then the other part of this chapter is where she

part of this chapter is where she basically has Quentyn come with her and

basically has Quentyn come with her and Daenerys is trying to basically nicely

Daenerys is trying to basically nicely say Quentyn, this is not a good place

say Quentyn, this is not a good place for you. You know, Daenerys is now

for you. You know, Daenerys is now married to Hisdar,

married to Hisdar, right? Like this is not the time for you

right? Like this is not the time for you to be here and it's very dangerous for

to be here and it's very dangerous for you to be here. And she also tries to

you to be here. And she also tries to show the dragons to him to kind of scare

show the dragons to him to kind of scare him and all those things. And funny

him and all those things. And funny enough, Quentyn takes this as, "Oh yeah,

enough, Quentyn takes this as, "Oh yeah, maybe I should release a dragon. and the

maybe I should release a dragon. and the dragons will definitely like me.

dragons will definitely like me. So again, I like what it does for

So again, I like what it does for Daenerys in terms of the last two like

Daenerys in terms of the last two like conversations. Really, the back part of

conversations. Really, the back part of this chapter is more of the enjoyable

this chapter is more of the enjoyable stuff, not the front half. And it also

stuff, not the front half. And it also kind of gets the Quentyn plot

kind of gets the Quentyn plot forwarding, keeping going and somehow

forwarding, keeping going and somehow Quentyn rationalizes what he's going to

Quentyn rationalizes what he's going to rationalize. Um, and getting kind of his

rationalize. Um, and getting kind of his plot for the last parts of this book.

plot for the last parts of this book. But yeah, it's a pretty solid nar

But yeah, it's a pretty solid nar chapter. Has some good, has some bad,

chapter. Has some good, has some bad, like a lot of this book does. Number 52

like a lot of this book does. Number 52 and we have Theon 7. And so George was

and we have Theon 7. And so George was just burning through these Theon

just burning through these Theon chapters. I mean, we've only done about

chapters. I mean, we've only done about 11. This will be the 11th chapter we've

11. This will be the 11th chapter we've done in this video, and he's already

done in this video, and he's already burned through three of them. So Theon

burned through three of them. So Theon 7, I do want to take a kind of moment

7, I do want to take a kind of moment here because this is his last chapter of

here because this is his last chapter of the book in terms of a POV. He will show

the book in terms of a POV. He will show up in one more chapter, but he is not

up in one more chapter, but he is not actually the POV in that chapter. And so

actually the POV in that chapter. And so Theon to me is the reason why Dance with

Theon to me is the reason why Dance with Dragons, I think a lot of people might

Dragons, I think a lot of people might view it better than I do. Um because I

view it better than I do. Um because I think without Theon's plotline, I think

think without Theon's plotline, I think this book would be very very very much

this book would be very very very much viewed not as great. Um because Theon to

viewed not as great. Um because Theon to me is the constant of this book. Every

me is the constant of this book. Every chapter he has is a top 20 chapter in

chapter he has is a top 20 chapter in the book. He is fantastic. I think

the book. He is fantastic. I think George does some of his best writing and

George does some of his best writing and in the entire series in this plot line

in the entire series in this plot line and he concludes it here. Um, and this

and he concludes it here. Um, and this chapter is just full of tension where

chapter is just full of tension where it's been kind of building up and

it's been kind of building up and building up. It explodes here, right? In

building up. It explodes here, right? In terms of Theon his and his character, in

terms of Theon his and his character, in terms of the actual northern plot, it

terms of the actual northern plot, it explodes, right? Because you have people

explodes, right? Because you have people on the edge of their seats, right?

on the edge of their seats, right? Because in this chapter, we see that

Because in this chapter, we see that little Walder has been killed presumably

little Walder has been killed presumably by Big Walder. Uh, and you see all that,

by Big Walder. Uh, and you see all that, you know, coming to pass, right? the

you know, coming to pass, right? the Manderlys and the Freys are coming to

Manderlys and the Freys are coming to blows. It seems like there's a going to

blows. It seems like there's a going to be a battle that's going to go out

be a battle that's going to go out between the two as Mander as Wyman

between the two as Mander as Wyman Manderly is actually assaulted in this

Manderly is actually assaulted in this actual chapter. We see that Roose has to

actual chapter. We see that Roose has to send them out to try and kill Stannis

send them out to try and kill Stannis because if he doesn't there's going to

because if he doesn't there's going to be a battle within Winterfell and it's

be a battle within Winterfell and it's not going to be a good look for Roose

not going to be a good look for Roose and so Roose sends them out and this is

and so Roose sends them out and this is the kind of the catalyst for everything

the kind of the catalyst for everything and to go into motion, right? Theon and

and to go into motion, right? Theon and the Spear wives are going to try and

the Spear wives are going to try and free Jame. And so this is huge for Theon

free Jame. And so this is huge for Theon because it's gonna be him going against

because it's gonna be him going against Ramsay. And so he has to have courage.

Ramsay. And so he has to have courage. He has to do all these things. But we

He has to do all these things. But we know if he fails at any point, right?

know if he fails at any point, right? Whether it's, you know, getting the

Whether it's, you know, getting the bathwater, whether it's trying to get

bathwater, whether it's trying to get past the guards, whether it's trying to

past the guards, whether it's trying to get Jane to actually cooperate, if any

get Jane to actually cooperate, if any of these things goes wrong and Theon

of these things goes wrong and Theon isn't killed, he's going to experience

isn't killed, he's going to experience even worse tor to torture than before.

even worse tor to torture than before. And so you have that playing on this

And so you have that playing on this situation where Theon and the Spearwise,

situation where Theon and the Spearwise, they're you trying to get past all these

they're you trying to get past all these obstacles and we see, you know, him

obstacles and we see, you know, him Theon becoming Theon once again. That's

Theon becoming Theon once again. That's why this chapter is like Theon one. Um,

why this chapter is like Theon one. Um, and so we see him getting Jane to have

and so we see him getting Jane to have some courage and to escape and the plan

some courage and to escape and the plan just slowly starts to unravel, right? It

just slowly starts to unravel, right? It just slowly starts to go wrong. you

just slowly starts to go wrong. you know, having to kill this person, that

know, having to kill this person, that making a big sound, and, you know, not

making a big sound, and, you know, not having the rope because the spear wife

having the rope because the spear wife that is kind of holding holding her

that is kind of holding holding her ground. Well, she had the rope to get

ground. Well, she had the rope to get down. So, now you're just going to have

down. So, now you're just going to have to jump for it. And so, you see Theon

to jump for it. And so, you see Theon and Jane escaping Winterfell in this

and Jane escaping Winterfell in this last stitch attempt where it's like,

last stitch attempt where it's like, okay, if we die in the fall, that's

okay, if we die in the fall, that's better than living. So, it's Theon

better than living. So, it's Theon taking this arc where we start the

taking this arc where we start the journey with him as Reek as this

journey with him as Reek as this character that has almost no part of

character that has almost no part of Theon left in him. And by the end of it,

Theon left in him. And by the end of it, through this transformation of a

through this transformation of a character, finding this new version of

character, finding this new version of Theon, it is one of the best character

Theon, it is one of the best character arcs in terms of just a single book in

arcs in terms of just a single book in the entire story. Um, it is my second uh

the entire story. Um, it is my second uh favorite chapter andor best chapter of

favorite chapter andor best chapter of the book. I still have Davos um four

the book. I still have Davos um four ahead of it. Um but it is ranked number

ahead of it. Um but it is ranked number two for me. Theon, like I talked about,

two for me. Theon, like I talked about, is a character that I don't rank outside

is a character that I don't rank outside of the top like 30 chapters. Um the

of the top like 30 chapters. Um the lowest one I have is Theon one, which is

lowest one I have is Theon one, which is um number 28. And that's the Reek

um number 28. And that's the Reek chapter, not actually like Theon one as

chapter, not actually like Theon one as it is in the book. I know it might be a

it is in the book. I know it might be a little confusing, but um yeah. So Theon

little confusing, but um yeah. So Theon 7, fantastic chapter. I gotta give

7, fantastic chapter. I gotta give George all of his flowers for what he

George all of his flowers for what he did with the character in this book. And

did with the character in this book. And uh it's a shame we won't see him really

uh it's a shame we won't see him really in the last like 20ish chapters of the

in the last like 20ish chapters of the book outside of just Asha. But uh yeah,

book outside of just Asha. But uh yeah, so getting into chapter 53 and like I

so getting into chapter 53 and like I just talked about Theon's last chapter

just talked about Theon's last chapter of the book for me is the second best

of the book for me is the second best chapter. And right after we get through

chapter. And right after we get through with that chapter, right, one of the

with that chapter, right, one of the best of the book I think for most of the

best of the book I think for most of the people in the community, George follows

people in the community, George follows it up by giving us Danny 9. And like I

it up by giving us Danny 9. And like I talk about, no matter what book we are

talk about, no matter what book we are in, if Danny has a POV in it, she has

in, if Danny has a POV in it, she has just one banger chapter, every single

just one banger chapter, every single book. The Game of Thrones, her last

book. The Game of Thrones, her last chapter, the ending of Game of Thrones

chapter, the ending of Game of Thrones is, in my opinion, the best chapter of

is, in my opinion, the best chapter of the entire book, it's up there as one of

the entire book, it's up there as one of the best of the entire series. Book two,

the best of the entire series. Book two, uh, House of the Undying, one of the

uh, House of the Undying, one of the best of the book, one of the best of the

best of the book, one of the best of the series. Storm of Swords, you could say a

series. Storm of Swords, you could say a lot of different chapters are really

lot of different chapters are really good for her. Personally, the one that

good for her. Personally, the one that always sticks to me is when she does get

always sticks to me is when she does get the Unsullied, one of the best chapters

the Unsullied, one of the best chapters of that book. And then you get to book

of that book. And then you get to book five. In book five, Danny is kind of in

five. In book five, Danny is kind of in this weird place because when we do my

this weird place because when we do my chapter rankings at the end of this

chapter rankings at the end of this series, you're going to see a lot of

series, you're going to see a lot of Daenerys's chapters are kind of in the

Daenerys's chapters are kind of in the same area. They're kind of like just

same area. They're kind of like just kind of in that middle ground of this

kind of in that middle ground of this book. But Danny comes swinging in Danny

book. But Danny comes swinging in Danny 9. Uh, I think this is probably I have

9. Uh, I think this is probably I have it ranked as of right now as the sixth

it ranked as of right now as the sixth best chapter of the book. And this is

best chapter of the book. And this is the chapter where Daenerys finally rides

the chapter where Daenerys finally rides Drogon. It's been this big uh thing

Drogon. It's been this big uh thing we've been waiting for from Daenerys for

we've been waiting for from Daenerys for a long time. You know, she having to

a long time. You know, she having to remember who she is, being a Targaryen

remember who she is, being a Targaryen and pushing back on everything the

and pushing back on everything the Yunkish have been doing to her. And so,

Yunkish have been doing to her. And so, there's that part of it, right? That is

there's that part of it, right? That is the climax of this chapter. But before

the climax of this chapter. But before we get to that part, it's the reopening

we get to that part, it's the reopening of the fighting pits. Dany has to be

of the fighting pits. Dany has to be here uh just for the customs and she's

here uh just for the customs and she's required to be here and all of that. And

required to be here and all of that. And so I even like how Daenerys is forced to

so I even like how Daenerys is forced to again building off the last chapter, she

again building off the last chapter, she feels awful that she has to watch this

feels awful that she has to watch this violence, right? That's pointless to

violence, right? That's pointless to her. Now we know why some of these

her. Now we know why some of these people might want this for glory, gold,

people might want this for glory, gold, all those type of things. But for Danny,

all those type of things. But for Danny, she views it as violence that is just

she views it as violence that is just pointless. It doesn't do anything that

pointless. It doesn't do anything that is good in her eyes. We see a number of

is good in her eyes. We see a number of interesting things happen as there's an

interesting things happen as there's an assassination attempt on her life it

assassination attempt on her life it would appear but thankfully for her

would appear but thankfully for her strong bellowis eats all of the locusts

strong bellowis eats all of the locusts and he's just that much of a Chad that

and he's just that much of a Chad that he actually is going to live but so we

he actually is going to live but so we have that mystery we still haven't

have that mystery we still haven't solved that mystery going into winds of

solved that mystery going into winds of winter and it's something we still

winter and it's something we still speculate on till till today and to me I

speculate on till till today and to me I still don't have a really concrete

still don't have a really concrete answer into what actually occurred there

answer into what actually occurred there I think it could likely be somebody like

I think it could likely be somebody like Resnak it could be somebody you know

Resnak it could be somebody you know maybe it is like his DAR, but I don't

maybe it is like his DAR, but I don't really like that idea. That seems like

really like that idea. That seems like too on the nose for George. Maybe it was

too on the nose for George. Maybe it was the Green Grace. Maybe it was somebody

the Green Grace. Maybe it was somebody in the Junish. Who knows? Could have

in the Junish. Who knows? Could have been shahasa's the shave paint. There's

been shahasa's the shave paint. There's a number of people that would have

a number of people that would have wanted Danny dead. And so, it's just an

wanted Danny dead. And so, it's just an interesting thing to think about as

interesting thing to think about as you're reread these chapters. And one

you're reread these chapters. And one thing that I specifically was looking

thing that I specifically was looking towards, and it's kind of a video I I I

towards, and it's kind of a video I I I already did, but the idea of who this

already did, but the idea of who this perfumed individual that is going to

perfumed individual that is going to betray Daenerys is is something I kind

betray Daenerys is is something I kind of tried to think about. And it's just

of tried to think about. And it's just hard because in Meereen, there's just so

hard because in Meereen, there's just so many different people that would want

many different people that would want her dead and just don't like her based

her dead and just don't like her based upon how she's ruling Meereen that it's

upon how she's ruling Meereen that it's going to be interesting to see the way

going to be interesting to see the way George kind of connects all these plots

George kind of connects all these plots and finishes them. But we also see a

and finishes them. But we also see a fight with a boar in which the boar

fight with a boar in which the boar wins. But at this because of all the

wins. But at this because of all the bloodshed and all the commotion, Drogon

bloodshed and all the commotion, Drogon comes in and eats the boar. Now, I think

comes in and eats the boar. Now, I think this is interesting because if you guys

this is interesting because if you guys remember back in book one, Robert

remember back in book one, Robert Baratheon is killed by a boar. And so, I

Baratheon is killed by a boar. And so, I find it interesting because you think

find it interesting because you think about, you know, after Robert's death,

about, you know, after Robert's death, we've had this fight for who should be

we've had this fight for who should be the heir after him, right? And so, it's

the heir after him, right? And so, it's been Joffrey, Tommen, you know, Stannis,

been Joffrey, Tommen, you know, Stannis, Renley, all these different people. And

Renley, all these different people. And I almost think this is somewhat of some

I almost think this is somewhat of some symbolism, right? that Daenerys is going

symbolism, right? that Daenerys is going to come in and she's going to be the one

to come in and she's going to be the one that's going to basically destroy all

that's going to basically destroy all these other claimments to the throne

these other claimments to the throne when she takes over. Uh referencing, you

when she takes over. Uh referencing, you know, her eating the boar. I I just

know, her eating the boar. I I just think that's a nice little tiein, you

think that's a nice little tiein, you know, referring to Rob Barraium, the one

know, referring to Rob Barraium, the one that took down her family, the thing

that took down her family, the thing that killed her, and then Daenerys's

that killed her, and then Daenerys's dragon eats a boar. I just find that a

dragon eats a boar. I just find that a little nice symbolism, something I

little nice symbolism, something I didn't pick up on um in past rereads.

didn't pick up on um in past rereads. But this all leads to Drogon landing in

But this all leads to Drogon landing in the pits and one of the most tense

the pits and one of the most tense moments in the book. Everything seems to

moments in the book. Everything seems to freeze in time as Daenerys goes towards

freeze in time as Daenerys goes towards Drogon trying to command him and to

Drogon trying to command him and to really, you know, get that connection

really, you know, get that connection that we see for instance in like House

that we see for instance in like House of the Dragon to be able to ride him. A

of the Dragon to be able to ride him. A very similar thing to like maybe, you

very similar thing to like maybe, you know, Aean with Vaggar on House of the

know, Aean with Vaggar on House of the Dragon or something like that. Maybe

Dragon or something like that. Maybe Lena with Vagar is another, you know,

Lena with Vagar is another, you know, maybe good example as well. And we see

maybe good example as well. And we see that Daenerys is finally able to ride

that Daenerys is finally able to ride Drogon and claim her dragon for the most

Drogon and claim her dragon for the most part. And at this she ends up flying

part. And at this she ends up flying off. And again, this is something as a

off. And again, this is something as a book fan that you would have been

book fan that you would have been waiting for for a long time. Ever since

waiting for for a long time. Ever since that we knew that dragons were going to

that we knew that dragons were going to be a thing in this series when they were

be a thing in this series when they were brought to, I guess, the world or to

brought to, I guess, the world or to Daenerys in book one at the very end.

Daenerys in book one at the very end. This is something we were always waiting

This is something we were always waiting for. And something that's going to be

for. And something that's going to be really interesting is how George then,

really interesting is how George then, you know, uses the other two dragons,

you know, uses the other two dragons, right? Because we've never really seen

right? Because we've never really seen somebody that's able to, you know, have

somebody that's able to, you know, have a claim on three dragons, right?

a claim on three dragons, right? Daenerys is the mother of these three

Daenerys is the mother of these three dragons, but it seems likely that

dragons, but it seems likely that Daenerys's like mental connection just

Daenerys's like mental connection just is not as strong with those other two

is not as strong with those other two dragons. And so, who eventually is going

dragons. And so, who eventually is going to tame those dragons? Right? People

to tame those dragons? Right? People have put forth this idea of maybe this

have put forth this idea of maybe this dragon tamer theory. Maybe it's going to

dragon tamer theory. Maybe it's going to be, you know, Euron. Maybe somehow

be, you know, Euron. Maybe somehow Victarion gets a dragon, maybe Young

Victarion gets a dragon, maybe Young Griff. Maybe, you know, Brown Ben Plum.

Griff. Maybe, you know, Brown Ben Plum. Maybe Jon Snow. There's just so many

Maybe Jon Snow. There's just so many people that have Targaryen blood that

people that have Targaryen blood that possibly could still claim a dragon that

possibly could still claim a dragon that it'll be interesting to see how George

it'll be interesting to see how George does it. Daenerys 9 is a chapter that I

does it. Daenerys 9 is a chapter that I think was sorely needed in this book

think was sorely needed in this book because in my opinion Daenerys doesn't

because in my opinion Daenerys doesn't have a lot of chapters that to me stick

have a lot of chapters that to me stick out that you know if you didn't reread

out that you know if you didn't reread the series um and you're you know five

the series um and you're you know five or 10 years removed from reading this

or 10 years removed from reading this book there's not many moments that I

book there's not many moments that I think really stick out for Daenerys um

think really stick out for Daenerys um outside of I'd say probably this chapter

outside of I'd say probably this chapter the next chapter and maybe some of the

the next chapter and maybe some of the just things going on politically that

just things going on politically that you see with Daenerys but I I I do think

you see with Daenerys but I I I do think this book is not her worst book. I think

this book is not her worst book. I think Clash is definitely her worst book, but

Clash is definitely her worst book, but this is definitely kind of just on her.

this is definitely kind of just on her. It's not as good as Game of Thrones, not

It's not as good as Game of Thrones, not as good as Storm of Swords, but this

as good as Storm of Swords, but this chapter definitely helps. And that'll

chapter definitely helps. And that'll get us to number 54, John 11. So John

get us to number 54, John 11. So John 11, again, kind of a switch of pace,

11, again, kind of a switch of pace, right? We come from two of the most

right? We come from two of the most tense and best chapters of the book down

tense and best chapters of the book down to John 11, which, you know, it's fine.

to John 11, which, you know, it's fine. I think it has some good things about

I think it has some good things about it. I think it has some things where

it. I think it has some things where it's like has to get done, but it's not

it's like has to get done, but it's not the most exciting stuff. So, for

the most exciting stuff. So, for instance, you know, the beginning of

instance, you know, the beginning of this, you know, chapter is all about

this, you know, chapter is all about torment and how they're going to

torment and how they're going to negotiate the wildlings, you know,

negotiate the wildlings, you know, coming south and crossing south of the

coming south and crossing south of the wall. And part of those terms are, you

wall. And part of those terms are, you know, having to give up hostages, giving

know, having to give up hostages, giving their treasures to the wall to pay for

their treasures to the wall to pay for food and where they shall actually live

food and where they shall actually live once they are established south of the

once they are established south of the wall. Eventually, all this is figured

wall. Eventually, all this is figured out. Torman agrees and Val and Jon must

out. Torman agrees and Val and Jon must tell Cis of the terms and she's not very

tell Cis of the terms and she's not very happy about this because they're not

happy about this because they're not really you know keeping to Stannis the

really you know keeping to Stannis the way he had done it in the past right

way he had done it in the past right where they had to kneel to him and all

where they had to kneel to him and all those things and so these wildlings are

those things and so these wildlings are not going to be forced to do that at all

not going to be forced to do that at all and so Ciss isn't happy with this she's

and so Ciss isn't happy with this she's also not happy the way Val has been kind

also not happy the way Val has been kind of you know let set free and being not

of you know let set free and being not forced to marry some of her own knights

forced to marry some of her own knights or whatnot and so when you see this

or whatnot and so when you see this occurring it basically isolates John

occurring it basically isolates John even more because what we saw in John 10

even more because what we saw in John 10 was, you know, Jon was losing support

was, you know, Jon was losing support from the Nights Watch, but he at least

from the Nights Watch, but he at least still seemed to have some support, you

still seemed to have some support, you know, from the Queensmen, right? At

know, from the Queensmen, right? At least that they were, you know, happy

least that they were, you know, happy with the Alice Karstark marriage. And so

with the Alice Karstark marriage. And so now at this point where, you know, you

now at this point where, you know, you have this Jon kind of severing those

have this Jon kind of severing those ties with Ciss. It's like at this point

ties with Ciss. It's like at this point at John 11, who really does Jon have

at John 11, who really does Jon have backing him up, you know? And when you

backing him up, you know? And when you think about that question, you go, hm,

think about that question, you go, hm, there really isn't anybody that like you

there really isn't anybody that like you would think is a staunch ally right now

would think is a staunch ally right now of John's. I would said maybe people

of John's. I would said maybe people like Val, Mel, maybe Tormund, um,

like Val, Mel, maybe Tormund, um, Dolores, Ed, but he's not even really

Dolores, Ed, but he's not even really currently at the Nights Watch. Um, he's,

currently at the Nights Watch. Um, he's, you know, at another castle at this

you know, at another castle at this point they're trying to repair. So Jon

point they're trying to repair. So Jon is very isolated, and that becomes very

is very isolated, and that becomes very apparent in the shatter. We also get

apparent in the shatter. We also get some interesting stuff about Val and the

some interesting stuff about Val and the way she views Shireen and Patchface as a

way she views Shireen and Patchface as a whole, saying the child is cursed and

whole, saying the child is cursed and that she should be killed and things

that she should be killed and things like that. It'll be interesting to see

like that. It'll be interesting to see if that plays a part in Shireen's death

if that plays a part in Shireen's death because it does seem like Stannis is

because it does seem like Stannis is going to burn Shireen. Will that have

going to burn Shireen. Will that have some, you know, effect? Um, will Shireen

some, you know, effect? Um, will Shireen cause, you know, this grayscale plague

cause, you know, this grayscale plague type situation? Very interesting

type situation? Very interesting foreshadowing in this chapter about

foreshadowing in this chapter about that. We just don't know fully where

that. We just don't know fully where that's going to go yet. But this kind of

that's going to go yet. But this kind of leads to, in my opinion, the moment when

leads to, in my opinion, the moment when I think Bowen Marsh and a lot of the

I think Bowen Marsh and a lot of the others leaders begin plotting Jon's

others leaders begin plotting Jon's demise because when Jon tells them that

demise because when Jon tells them that they that he's going to let the

they that he's going to let the Wildlings south of the wall for them, it

Wildlings south of the wall for them, it doesn't make any sense, right? Because

doesn't make any sense, right? Because all these issues kind of come to the

all these issues kind of come to the forefront, right? Where you have it like

forefront, right? Where you have it like how are we going to feed them? You know,

how are we going to feed them? You know, how do we trust them to not kill us,

how do we trust them to not kill us, right? They have way more people than we

right? They have way more people than we do. The only thing that gave us any

do. The only thing that gave us any advantage over the Wildlings was the

advantage over the Wildlings was the wall. So what are we going to do when we

wall. So what are we going to do when we have all these wildings south of the

have all these wildings south of the wall? What if one day they just we have

wall? What if one day they just we have a scuttle or some sort of disagreement

a scuttle or some sort of disagreement and they kill us?

and they kill us? And it's again this issue that I think

And it's again this issue that I think it's interesting that George places this

it's interesting that George places this chapter, you know, after we get a Jaime

chapter, you know, after we get a Jaime chapter where we basically this whole

chapter where we basically this whole thing where it's generations of violence

thing where it's generations of violence and hatred. It's the same thing here

and hatred. It's the same thing here with the Wildlings and um the Nights

with the Wildlings and um the Nights Watch. It's like telling the Blackwoods

Watch. It's like telling the Blackwoods and the Brackens, yeah, you're going to,

and the Brackens, yeah, you're going to, you know, go in one castle and you're

you know, go in one castle and you're going to work together. It just wouldn't

going to work together. It just wouldn't work more than likely unless you really

work more than likely unless you really sat down people and figured this all

sat down people and figured this all out. And so, we can understand Jon's

out. And so, we can understand Jon's rationale as to why he decides to bring

rationale as to why he decides to bring the Wildlings out of the wall because of

the Wildlings out of the wall because of course they're all going to die. If they

course they're all going to die. If they stay north of the wall, they're going to

stay north of the wall, they're going to be killed by the others. It's going to

be killed by the others. It's going to add to the other's army and all those

add to the other's army and all those things.

things. So, we can understand John's rationale,

So, we can understand John's rationale, but the problem is John doesn't

but the problem is John doesn't necessarily explain those things that

necessarily explain those things that well to them. He doesn't really make

well to them. He doesn't really make them at least understand or accept what

them at least understand or accept what this whole thing is going to go down,

this whole thing is going to go down, right? Like, like that is my biggest

right? Like, like that is my biggest issue. I've talked about it with John

issue. I've talked about it with John throughout this retrospective is that

throughout this retrospective is that the biggest key issue that Jon has is

the biggest key issue that Jon has is he's not a effective communicator. And

he's not a effective communicator. And I'd almost say he's not an effective

I'd almost say he's not an effective leader at times. He is somebody that I

leader at times. He is somebody that I think has a lot to learn, especially

think has a lot to learn, especially with how to lead men. And that kind of

with how to lead men. And that kind of leads us to the end of the chapter where

leads us to the end of the chapter where Bowen Marsh straight up tells Jon that

Bowen Marsh straight up tells Jon that he believes he's breaking his vows. This

he believes he's breaking his vows. This should be a huge red flag. If you're

should be a huge red flag. If you're John and you have one of your, you know,

John and you have one of your, you know, main uh leaders in Bowen Marsh telling

main uh leaders in Bowen Marsh telling you, and a lot of the other leaders

you, and a lot of the other leaders agree to this, that he's breaking his

agree to this, that he's breaking his vows, what does that say for the people

vows, what does that say for the people that aren't even leaders? you know,

that aren't even leaders? you know, let's say you're a common uh builder or

let's say you're a common uh builder or you're, you know, a ranger or whatever.

you're, you know, a ranger or whatever. You're not even going to have the

You're not even going to have the insight of what these people do. Like

insight of what these people do. Like Bow and Marsh, they don't even

Bow and Marsh, they don't even understand what Jon's doing. How about

understand what Jon's doing. How about some just random, you know, peasant

some just random, you know, peasant that's just recently come to the Nights

that's just recently come to the Nights Watch. You're going to be thinking,

Watch. You're going to be thinking, "What what is this guy doing?" And he's

"What what is this guy doing?" And he's not explaining it. He's not giving any

not explaining it. He's not giving any speeches. He's not explaining to the

speeches. He's not explaining to the vast majority of people here what

vast majority of people here what they're doing.

they're doing. And so Jon I just think makes another

And so Jon I just think makes another mistake in the way that he executes what

mistake in the way that he executes what he's trying to do. But that'll get us to

he's trying to do. But that'll get us to number 55, Cersei 1. And like I talked

number 55, Cersei 1. And like I talked about with Arya and a lot of the other

about with Arya and a lot of the other POVs that have come over from Feast for

POVs that have come over from Feast for Crows,

Crows, I think distinctively when I remember

I think distinctively when I remember first rereading Dance and Feast or

first rereading Dance and Feast or reading them for the first time. You

reading them for the first time. You know, Cersei 1 and Cersei 2 I both have

know, Cersei 1 and Cersei 2 I both have his top 15 chapters of this book. And I

his top 15 chapters of this book. And I would argue that Cersei 1 and Cersei 2

would argue that Cersei 1 and Cersei 2 are two of the best Cersei chapters that

are two of the best Cersei chapters that we ever get in the series. And so saying

we ever get in the series. And so saying that, it's like, okay, how do I look at

that, it's like, okay, how do I look at Feast for Crows? Because I think of

Feast for Crows? Because I think of Feast for Crows, Cersei's plot line is

Feast for Crows, Cersei's plot line is still good, but man, having these two

still good, but man, having these two chapters be in Dance and not Feast

chapters be in Dance and not Feast really like it just hurts Feast as an

really like it just hurts Feast as an overall because Cersei is concluded as

overall because Cersei is concluded as this whole arc in Dance and not Feast

this whole arc in Dance and not Feast for Crows. Like Feast for Crows, it

for Crows. Like Feast for Crows, it still works. She gets captured by the

still works. She gets captured by the faith and all that stuff, but here we

faith and all that stuff, but here we see like, you know, what her actual

see like, you know, what her actual conclusion should be. Her breaking down

conclusion should be. Her breaking down as a character, her going through this

as a character, her going through this traumatic experience of the walk of

traumatic experience of the walk of atonement, all that stuff. But let's

atonement, all that stuff. But let's talk about this chatter specifically.

talk about this chatter specifically. So, again, picking up from where we left

So, again, picking up from where we left off, you know, Cersei has been taken

off, you know, Cersei has been taken hostage by the Faith Militant and the

hostage by the Faith Militant and the High Sparrow. And so slowly we see her

High Sparrow. And so slowly we see her start to whittle away, you know,

start to whittle away, you know, beginning as her normal kind of [ __ ]

beginning as her normal kind of [ __ ] like self more or less. And we see her

like self more or less. And we see her slowly break down as she's being put

slowly break down as she's being put through psychological and physical

through psychological and physical torture, right? They're not letting her

torture, right? They're not letting her sleep every hour they come in asking for

sleep every hour they come in asking for her to or telling her really to confess.

her to or telling her really to confess. And it's Cersei, you know, trying to

And it's Cersei, you know, trying to understand like how much can she endure.

understand like how much can she endure. And you know, when you go from Cersei

And you know, when you go from Cersei one of Feast for Crows to this where,

one of Feast for Crows to this where, you know, you see Cersei basically

you know, you see Cersei basically trying to drink any type of water she

trying to drink any type of water she can just off of the ground, it's Cersei

can just off of the ground, it's Cersei been taken to her lowest. And in a way,

been taken to her lowest. And in a way, you know, Cersei is a character that we

you know, Cersei is a character that we should all dislike, right? Because, you

should all dislike, right? Because, you know, she's a character that was behind,

know, she's a character that was behind, you know, Ned losing in Game of Thrones.

you know, Ned losing in Game of Thrones. and she's done, you know, all sorts of

and she's done, you know, all sorts of horrible things like getting Tyrion

horrible things like getting Tyrion falsely accused and almost killed and

falsely accused and almost killed and that leading to Tywin's death. All this

that leading to Tywin's death. All this different stuff and the way she was to

different stuff and the way she was to Tyrion, for instance, when she was

Tyrion, for instance, when she was younger. But when you see Cersei reduced

younger. But when you see Cersei reduced to this, you know, level of torture and

to this, you know, level of torture and you you can't help but feel bad for her

you you can't help but feel bad for her and especially in the next chapter, I'd

and especially in the next chapter, I'd say specifically, but we see that Cersei

say specifically, but we see that Cersei still has some of her cunning left. you

still has some of her cunning left. you know, she is somebody that is, you know,

know, she is somebody that is, you know, still has an ability to maybe charm

still has an ability to maybe charm people or to lie to people, right? And

people or to lie to people, right? And so, we see her navigating through the

so, we see her navigating through the High Sparrow's accusations now.

High Sparrow's accusations now. Unfortunately for her, the High Sparrow

Unfortunately for her, the High Sparrow is not going to just let her go, right?

is not going to just let her go, right? Because Cersei says some things, yes, I

Because Cersei says some things, yes, I did this, like fortnification, you know,

did this, like fortnification, you know, sleeping out of wedlock, I did those

sleeping out of wedlock, I did those type of things, slept with Lancel, all

type of things, slept with Lancel, all those type of things. But there's other

those type of things. But there's other charges that she has placed on her,

charges that she has placed on her, right? You know, the killing of the king

right? You know, the killing of the king and things like that. And so it's Cersei

and things like that. And so it's Cersei real realizing real realistically that

real realizing real realistically that she doesn't have a way out, right? Kevin

she doesn't have a way out, right? Kevin Lannister who comes to tell her later in

Lannister who comes to tell her later in this chapter as well. It's interesting

this chapter as well. It's interesting seeing them um meet again because you

seeing them um meet again because you think about the last time they were with

think about the last time they were with each other. Cersei basically threw wine

each other. Cersei basically threw wine in his face. So

in his face. So shift of roles here where Kevin has all

shift of roles here where Kevin has all the power and Cersei has none. And Kevin

the power and Cersei has none. And Kevin even tells her the situation. It's not

even tells her the situation. It's not very good. There's cell swords landing.

very good. There's cell swords landing. Uh, there's Myrcella's ear has been cut

Uh, there's Myrcella's ear has been cut off and Aerys's death, Jaime's

off and Aerys's death, Jaime's disappearance. Cersei now knows what she

disappearance. Cersei now knows what she has to do. She must make a walk of

has to do. She must make a walk of atonement. It is the only way forward.

atonement. It is the only way forward. And it's a perfect continuation off of

And it's a perfect continuation off of what we got in Peace for Crows with

what we got in Peace for Crows with Cersei. And so this character that, you

Cersei. And so this character that, you know, was so prideful, now she's brought

know, was so prideful, now she's brought to this where she's so desperate that

to this where she's so desperate that she's willing to, you know, go naked

she's willing to, you know, go naked through the streets of King's Landing.

through the streets of King's Landing. It is a tough thing that's being asked

It is a tough thing that's being asked of Cersei, but she you can't say that

of Cersei, but she you can't say that she doesn't deserve it at least, you

she doesn't deserve it at least, you know, based on the actions that she's

know, based on the actions that she's done. But it's almost like, and the

done. But it's almost like, and the show, I think, did this really well. I

show, I think, did this really well. I think Cersei is a character that was for

think Cersei is a character that was for the most part done pretty well until the

the most part done pretty well until the later seasons, like season seven and

later seasons, like season seven and eight in my opinion, like season six

eight in my opinion, like season six still a great character, is that we is

still a great character, is that we is that George gets us to hate the High

that George gets us to hate the High Sparrow and the Faith Militant and the

Sparrow and the Faith Militant and the Faith more than we do Cersei. It's more

Faith more than we do Cersei. It's more of a uh a lesser evil type situation.

of a uh a lesser evil type situation. And I know it's probably maybe not for

And I know it's probably maybe not for everybody, but I just really enjoy the

everybody, but I just really enjoy the way George crafts Cersei, especially in

way George crafts Cersei, especially in this chapter and especially the next

this chapter and especially the next chapter, but not only do we get Cersei

chapter, but not only do we get Cersei one, right? George just keeps kind of

one, right? George just keeps kind of spitting, right? George is where again

spitting, right? George is where again dance when it hits like around the like

dance when it hits like around the like the late 40s to 50 chapters and and

the late 40s to 50 chapters and and beyond, this is a very strong end to a

beyond, this is a very strong end to a book. Um, it just has a ton of great

book. Um, it just has a ton of great POVs that we get to see the inclusions

POVs that we get to see the inclusions of. And I know Dance isn't a finished

of. And I know Dance isn't a finished like book really. Like it does feel like

like book really. Like it does feel like certain things end very weirdly. Like I

certain things end very weirdly. Like I would say the North plotline I think the

would say the North plotline I think the natural end point of where this book

natural end point of where this book should have been would have been the

should have been would have been the battle of ice and we're not going to see

battle of ice and we're not going to see that till winds of winter. Um, the

that till winds of winter. Um, the battle of fire probably should have

battle of fire probably should have happened in this book. A lot of that

happened in this book. A lot of that comes down to there just wasn't enough

comes down to there just wasn't enough pages and time to do those things. But I

pages and time to do those things. But I really enjoy, you know, some of these

really enjoy, you know, some of these POVs later in the book. Now, Barristan

POVs later in the book. Now, Barristan one. So, getting Barry the Bold um as a

one. So, getting Barry the Bold um as a POV character is something I never

POV character is something I never expected reading the books getting up to

expected reading the books getting up to this point of the story. And it's a

this point of the story. And it's a really nice surprise. Um because

really nice surprise. Um because Barristen really reminds me of Ned.

Barristen really reminds me of Ned. They're very similar characters. Uh even

They're very similar characters. Uh even when you read Barristen, he's always he

when you read Barristen, he's always he seems to be on like Ned's side, for

seems to be on like Ned's side, for instance, and in terms of policies and

instance, and in terms of policies and stuff like that in Game of Thrones. And

stuff like that in Game of Thrones. And so I really love Barrison trying to

so I really love Barrison trying to navigate this Marinese plotline, this

navigate this Marinese plotline, this political situation because even

political situation because even Daenerys struggles with that a ton and

Daenerys struggles with that a ton and Daenerys is a much better I would say

Daenerys is a much better I would say politician than someone like Barristan.

politician than someone like Barristan. Barrist tries his best but we see the

Barrist tries his best but we see the situation after Daenerys has left where

situation after Daenerys has left where his daughters are making a lot of

his daughters are making a lot of questionable decisions. It seems like

questionable decisions. It seems like he's getting very buddy buddy with the

he's getting very buddy buddy with the Junkish and the slavers. He's also

Junkish and the slavers. He's also putting away all of Daenerys's support.

putting away all of Daenerys's support. Everyone that was here that was in

Everyone that was here that was in positions of power before have been

positions of power before have been stripped of that power. Scahasa's the

stripped of that power. Scahasa's the shave page has been displaced at this

shave page has been displaced at this time. Barristan is kind of the last

time. Barristan is kind of the last person to get displaced, but all of

person to get displaced, but all of Daenerys's staunchest allies like strong

Daenerys's staunchest allies like strong Belellis is gone. Missande, you know,

Belellis is gone. Missande, you know, she's not here to announce his DAR. All

she's not here to announce his DAR. All of the people that were kind of

of the people that were kind of supporting, you know, Daenerys are gone,

supporting, you know, Daenerys are gone, or they're at least not gone, I guess,

or they're at least not gone, I guess, but they're not in power anymore. And so

but they're not in power anymore. And so we see his DAR kind of solidifying his

we see his DAR kind of solidifying his power, putting people he trusts behind

power, putting people he trusts behind him. Now, another thing I think is

him. Now, another thing I think is interesting, you think about this is,

interesting, you think about this is, okay, like I just talked about,

okay, like I just talked about, everybody from, you know, Daenerys's

everybody from, you know, Daenerys's former councils and people that she

former councils and people that she trusted are gone except Resnack, someone

trusted are gone except Resnack, someone that obviously went against Daenerys and

that obviously went against Daenerys and multiple policies. I did a whole video

multiple policies. I did a whole video basically on Resnak as a character in

basically on Resnak as a character in that video I did uh two weeks ago, I

that video I did uh two weeks ago, I believe. Um, but yeah, I just find it

believe. Um, but yeah, I just find it very interesting to see how Barry go how

very interesting to see how Barry go how Barrison goes about doing all these

Barrison goes about doing all these things as we see people thinking that

things as we see people thinking that Daenerys may have left them or even is

Daenerys may have left them or even is dead as there's been multiple rumors

dead as there's been multiple rumors going on but at this time we see a

going on but at this time we see a meeting between Sky and Barrist and it

meeting between Sky and Barrist and it feels very Ned and Littlefinger like

feels very Ned and Littlefinger like Skahasa almost seems to be taunting

Skahasa almost seems to be taunting Barrist at multiple times you know

Barrist at multiple times you know suggesting maybe Barrist will be a slave

suggesting maybe Barrist will be a slave at one point and all these things and

at one point and all these things and you know we see Scahaz's point of view

you know we see Scahaz's point of view and Barristan is really backed into the

and Barristan is really backed into the situation where all of the evidence does

situation where all of the evidence does seem to you know prove that Hisdar

seem to you know prove that Hisdar should not be on the throne. He's been

should not be on the throne. He's been making some sketchy things going on. But

making some sketchy things going on. But the problem is and the issue that

the problem is and the issue that Barrison's going to face in my opinion

Barrison's going to face in my opinion is who really can you trust? You

is who really can you trust? You definitely can't trust the Scahas the

definitely can't trust the Scahas the shave bait which Barrison doesn't but

shave bait which Barrison doesn't but you also can't really trust Resnack and

you also can't really trust Resnack and also his either. So you're left in the

also his either. So you're left in the situation where Barrison kind of takes

situation where Barrison kind of takes power off the back of both the Unsullied

power off the back of both the Unsullied and um Scahas. And so we see that all

and um Scahas. And so we see that all playing out. Now that's going to play

playing out. Now that's going to play out in, you know, a future chapter. But

out in, you know, a future chapter. But I really love the introduction of

I really love the introduction of Barrist. I think the knowledge that he

Barrist. I think the knowledge that he has, one of the reasons I'm a big

has, one of the reasons I'm a big proponent for Barrison not dying at the

proponent for Barrison not dying at the very beginning of the next book is

very beginning of the next book is because we could learn so much through

because we could learn so much through him. If George wants to expand the war

him. If George wants to expand the war of the nine penny kings or expanding,

of the nine penny kings or expanding, you know, the reigns of Targaryen kings

you know, the reigns of Targaryen kings that Barrison was serving under, you

that Barrison was serving under, you know, Barrison's the perfect character

know, Barrison's the perfect character to do that. And so, I love Barrist. Uh,

to do that. And so, I love Barrist. Uh, hope we get more of him in Winds of

hope we get more of him in Winds of Winter. Um, but yeah, that gets us to

Winter. Um, but yeah, that gets us to number 57, Victarion one. Again,

number 57, Victarion one. Again, Victarion, our lovable, bloodthirsty

Victarion, our lovable, bloodthirsty idiot Greyjoy. I can't help but say I

idiot Greyjoy. I can't help but say I really had fun reading his chapters in

really had fun reading his chapters in the Dance of Dragons. There's a lot of

the Dance of Dragons. There's a lot of chapters I didn't really have that much

chapters I didn't really have that much fun with reading. Like for instance, a

fun with reading. Like for instance, a lot of Tyrion and Quentyn chapters, you

lot of Tyrion and Quentyn chapters, you know, come to mind or even some of

know, come to mind or even some of Daenerys's lower end chapters, but

Daenerys's lower end chapters, but Victarion is just a fun character to

Victarion is just a fun character to read. He's not the best POV of this

read. He's not the best POV of this book. He's not even close to that in my

book. He's not even close to that in my opinion, but it's just fun to read the

opinion, but it's just fun to read the way his mind works, right? We see how

way his mind works, right? We see how the crossing has worked as it's been

the crossing has worked as it's been pretty costly. Um, Victarion currently

pretty costly. Um, Victarion currently is at the aisle of Cedars with less than

is at the aisle of Cedars with less than half the fleet that had left the Reach.

half the fleet that had left the Reach. He's kind of in a sticky situation,

He's kind of in a sticky situation, right? Because he traveled all this way

right? Because he traveled all this way to Essos and now he's lost about half of

to Essos and now he's lost about half of his fleet. But he can't wait any longer.

his fleet. But he can't wait any longer. The slavers are going for Marine and

The slavers are going for Marine and taking down Daenerys. He's even more

taking down Daenerys. He's even more worried because when they stopped in

worried because when they stopped in Volantis, he saw the ships. There was

Volantis, he saw the ships. There was anywhere from 300 to 500 ships, which

anywhere from 300 to 500 ships, which dwarfs the size of Victarion's fleet,

dwarfs the size of Victarion's fleet, even though Victarons are probably

even though Victarons are probably better manned um and all that stuff. But

better manned um and all that stuff. But Victarion doesn't have the strength to

Victarion doesn't have the strength to to to rival them. But we also saw

to to rival them. But we also saw something else is bothering Victarion as

something else is bothering Victarion as his hand has continued to fester and it

his hand has continued to fester and it seems infected. And the maesters,

seems infected. And the maesters, they've tried or at least the maester

they've tried or at least the maester that he has and it was given by Euron

that he has and it was given by Euron hasn't helped whatsoever. And so Victor

hasn't helped whatsoever. And so Victor kills him as as in this chapter we also

kills him as as in this chapter we also find Muarro who we haven't seen from

find Muarro who we haven't seen from Tyrion uh when they were back on the

Tyrion uh when they were back on the ship together. Muarro does some quite

ship together. Muarro does some quite interesting things here because when

interesting things here because when Muaro tries to heal Verion's hand. We

Muaro tries to heal Verion's hand. We don't see what happens inside, but it

don't see what happens inside, but it does sound a lot like Mary Mazdur's like

does sound a lot like Mary Mazdur's like ceremony with Drogo in the tent back in

ceremony with Drogo in the tent back in book one with Dany because it seems like

book one with Dany because it seems like there's shadows dancing and all these

there's shadows dancing and all these things. And when Victarion comes out, he

things. And when Victarion comes out, he has this almost black charred looking

has this almost black charred looking arm or hand, but it seems more powerful

arm or hand, but it seems more powerful and it seems very interesting. Aquaro

and it seems very interesting. Aquaro must have used some sort of fire magic

must have used some sort of fire magic andor I assume maybe blood magic. And so

andor I assume maybe blood magic. And so Victarion gets rid of the maester. And

Victarion gets rid of the maester. And this is how we kind of end Victarion 1,

this is how we kind of end Victarion 1, but I really think Victarion 1's a fun

but I really think Victarion 1's a fun chapter. It's not the best chapter or

chapter. It's not the best chapter or anything. This is probably where Dance

anything. This is probably where Dance Dragons gets to its highest point. I

Dragons gets to its highest point. I would also say a little bit of uh last

would also say a little bit of uh last video as well. I think that A Dance

video as well. I think that A Dance Dragons really hits its strides later on

Dragons really hits its strides later on in the book. Um, and so it really hits

in the book. Um, and so it really hits the big parts of it later. Whereas a lot

the big parts of it later. Whereas a lot of other books maybe it's not as similar

of other books maybe it's not as similar to that. Like for instance, Storm of

to that. Like for instance, Storm of Swords throughout its big high moments.

Swords throughout its big high moments. A Feast for Crows is really good for

A Feast for Crows is really good for certain characters at very different

certain characters at very different parts of the story. So for instance,

parts of the story. So for instance, characters like Cersei, she's really

characters like Cersei, she's really good at the beginning, very good at the

good at the beginning, very good at the end. I think the middle is kind of where

end. I think the middle is kind of where she's kind of eh of dragons very much

she's kind of eh of dragons very much falls into the category of the longer

falls into the category of the longer you read into this book I think the

you read into this book I think the better it gets because you get away from

better it gets because you get away from all of the Tyrion stuff all the Quentyn

all of the Tyrion stuff all the Quentyn stuff you start having less of those

stuff you start having less of those POVs and the POVs that are kind of you

POVs and the POVs that are kind of you know they hover around being okay start

know they hover around being okay start to become great like Daenerys and like

to become great like Daenerys and like you know I think Jon has a lot of his

you know I think Jon has a lot of his better chapters towards the very end of

better chapters towards the very end of the book Barriston gets introduced at

the book Barriston gets introduced at the very end of this book but let's get

the very end of this book but let's get into the first chapter of today's video.

into the first chapter of today's video. Chapter 58, Tyrion 11. Now, again, at

Chapter 58, Tyrion 11. Now, again, at this point of the story, Tyrion is a POV

this point of the story, Tyrion is a POV I dread reading because when you think

I dread reading because when you think about what I just said, all the other

about what I just said, all the other plot lines are starting to really get to

plot lines are starting to really get to the meat of their plots. You know, we're

the meat of their plots. You know, we're getting towards the very end of the

getting towards the very end of the book. Tyrion is just a character that I

book. Tyrion is just a character that I haven't really liked his plotline since

haven't really liked his plotline since he leaves Young Griff. That's a lot of

he leaves Young Griff. That's a lot of what the I think the community thinks as

what the I think the community thinks as well. But for me personally, I didn't

well. But for me personally, I didn't enjoy much of this Tyrion chapter. I I

enjoy much of this Tyrion chapter. I I don't think it's his worst chapter by

don't think it's his worst chapter by any means or, you know, one of his worst

any means or, you know, one of his worst because I think at least the back half

because I think at least the back half of the chapter makes up for it and is

of the chapter makes up for it and is actually some of the better stuff of

actually some of the better stuff of especially the plot line where Tyrion's

especially the plot line where Tyrion's at Marine specifically. But we see

at Marine specifically. But we see Tyrion more or less the beginning of

Tyrion more or less the beginning of this chapter is we're just seeing how

this chapter is we're just seeing how the flux has destroyed the slavers more

the flux has destroyed the slavers more or less. You have Tyrion, Penny, and

or less. You have Tyrion, Penny, and Jorah's master who is basically dying.

Jorah's master who is basically dying. They're going to try and get some water

They're going to try and get some water for him. That's at least what Tyrion

for him. That's at least what Tyrion tells them. But in fact, Tyrion is not

tells them. But in fact, Tyrion is not going to do that whatsoever. He's going

going to do that whatsoever. He's going to take Penny and Jorah to the second

to take Penny and Jorah to the second sons. He's going to try and join their

sons. He's going to try and join their company because he knows, for instance,

company because he knows, for instance, that Brown Ben Plum knows who he is. So,

that Brown Ben Plum knows who he is. So, he thinks that maybe he can sway them to

he thinks that maybe he can sway them to go to Taenerys's side. So, then that'll

go to Taenerys's side. So, then that'll more or less get him to where he needed

more or less get him to where he needed to be. And he gets out of slavery of

to be. And he gets out of slavery of course and also a slave master who liked

course and also a slave master who liked very special or unique individuals I

very special or unique individuals I should say I guess is the terminology

should say I guess is the terminology you would say for this master that

you would say for this master that Tyrion has when he dies well they're

Tyrion has when he dies well they're more than likely probably going to be

more than likely probably going to be killed. And so when we get into you know

killed. And so when we get into you know this part of it where we get to Brown

this part of it where we get to Brown Ben Plum that's where this chapter

Ben Plum that's where this chapter actually gets interesting because you

actually gets interesting because you have an interesting character like Brown

have an interesting character like Brown Ben Plum. You have the second sons who

Ben Plum. You have the second sons who we know a bit from Daenerys's arc.

we know a bit from Daenerys's arc. There's also another interesting part of

There's also another interesting part of this that you might not catch on your

this that you might not catch on your first read. something I never caught on

first read. something I never caught on my first read in Dance Dragons and I

my first read in Dance Dragons and I noticed as I went back and reread it um

noticed as I went back and reread it um you know a few years ago, but there is

you know a few years ago, but there is this moment right where you do see like

this moment right where you do see like Tyrion and Penny jousting in the actual

Tyrion and Penny jousting in the actual Daenerys chapter where she you know

Daenerys chapter where she you know rides Drogon and there's this part of it

rides Drogon and there's this part of it where they were actually going to send

where they were actually going to send Lions to more or less kill Tyrion and

Lions to more or less kill Tyrion and Penny and that's something that Penny

Penny and that's something that Penny doesn't know but Tyrion does

doesn't know but Tyrion does subconsciously know that they got lucky

subconsciously know that they got lucky that they were basically being thrown

that they were basically being thrown out there to be butchered. So that kind

out there to be butchered. So that kind of plays into Tyrion's mind as well in

of plays into Tyrion's mind as well in betraying I guess the slavers which I

betraying I guess the slavers which I mean they're slaves like yeah they

mean they're slaves like yeah they should get their freedom but still in

should get their freedom but still in terms of the the interesting part of

terms of the the interesting part of this chapter it really just is the

this chapter it really just is the flipped the second sons the interactions

flipped the second sons the interactions that Tyrion has with a character like

that Tyrion has with a character like Brown Ben Plum and all of this has been

Brown Ben Plum and all of this has been set up like it doesn't come out of

set up like it doesn't come out of nowhere the right the last chapter we

nowhere the right the last chapter we saw with Tyrion we saw him playing Sas

saw with Tyrion we saw him playing Sas with Brown Ben Plum and foreshadowing

with Brown Ben Plum and foreshadowing all of the things that are going to come

all of the things that are going to come next but yeah so Again, not a crazy

next but yeah so Again, not a crazy Tyrion chapter. There's some decent

Tyrion chapter. There's some decent things in it. There's some like eh it

things in it. There's some like eh it just feels like I we don't really need

just feels like I we don't really need more of this. And that's kind of been my

more of this. And that's kind of been my big complaint with Tyrion is I think,

big complaint with Tyrion is I think, you know, for him having 12 chapters

you know, for him having 12 chapters as that character. He doesn't do a whole

as that character. He doesn't do a whole lot in this book outside of just

lot in this book outside of just traveling. He should have been

traveling. He should have been significantly cut down in my opinion.

significantly cut down in my opinion. But yeah, Tyrion, in my opinion, only

But yeah, Tyrion, in my opinion, only serves to basically slow the pace down

serves to basically slow the pace down of the book at this point of the book.

of the book at this point of the book. And so, yeah, I don't have a lot to say

And so, yeah, I don't have a lot to say about Tyrion, especially at this part of

about Tyrion, especially at this part of the book. Let's just move on to kind of

the book. Let's just move on to kind of better things in my opinion. In John 12

better things in my opinion. In John 12 and chapter 59, we we have kind of a a

and chapter 59, we we have kind of a a very interesting but weird and 100%

very interesting but weird and 100% necessary chapter. It's not one of

necessary chapter. It's not one of John's best chapters by any means, as

John's best chapters by any means, as we're seeing the wildlings come south of

we're seeing the wildlings come south of the wall. Uh, and mainly we see Jon and

the wall. Uh, and mainly we see Jon and Tormund together as they're crossing the

Tormund together as they're crossing the wall. And this chapter builds a lot of

wall. And this chapter builds a lot of the the tension going on, right? This

the the tension going on, right? This has never been be done before really

has never been be done before really where the wildlings are willingly being

where the wildlings are willingly being allowed to come through the wall and

allowed to come through the wall and you're seeing how the black brothers are

you're seeing how the black brothers are very begrudgingly going with Jon's

very begrudgingly going with Jon's orders. And so most of the chapter fills

orders. And so most of the chapter fills up with this time of Tormund and Jon

up with this time of Tormund and Jon watching as the wildlings have to give

watching as the wildlings have to give up hostages, treasures, and cross

up hostages, treasures, and cross through the wall. It is really good

through the wall. It is really good setup to I think the next chapter that

setup to I think the next chapter that we're going to actually see and and more

we're going to actually see and and more of the reasoning as to why Jon is

of the reasoning as to why Jon is killed. A lot of it focuses on this

killed. A lot of it focuses on this chapter specifically. And so this

chapter specifically. And so this chapter in of itself is extremely

chapter in of itself is extremely consequential to I would say the rest of

consequential to I would say the rest of the story because you're going to have a

the story because you're going to have a wildlink force that at any point could

wildlink force that at any point could attack the Night's Watch if things went

attack the Night's Watch if things went arry like Jon being killed. And I think

arry like Jon being killed. And I think what's even more interesting is we we do

what's even more interesting is we we do get this very dark this seems like a

get this very dark this seems like a very forboding letter that he gets from

very forboding letter that he gets from Cotterpike that things are not going

Cotterpike that things are not going well at Hardome. There seems to be some

well at Hardome. There seems to be some mysterious other force that might be

mysterious other force that might be there. There seems like again like what

there. There seems like again like what we see in the television show, something

we see in the television show, something along those those lines may be happening

along those those lines may be happening at at Hardome. And we even get Tormund

at at Hardome. And we even get Tormund kind of describing the others and how

kind of describing the others and how they come, how the cold comes, and they

they come, how the cold comes, and they pick you off little by little. They're

pick you off little by little. They're never too far behind. Again, for for

never too far behind. Again, for for John in this late of the book, it's not

John in this late of the book, it's not a bad chapter whatsoever. It's just not

a bad chapter whatsoever. It's just not really like a standout chapter of

really like a standout chapter of John's. It it's one of those that is

John's. It it's one of those that is very much there to set up for John's big

very much there to set up for John's big chapters in terms of like his death, for

chapters in terms of like his death, for instance, in the pink letter chapter.

instance, in the pink letter chapter. This isn't very influential there. But

This isn't very influential there. But again, it's a it's a chapter that's

again, it's a it's a chapter that's building things. And that's what a lot

building things. And that's what a lot of these middle kind of chapters have

of these middle kind of chapters have felt like for Jon where they're building

felt like for Jon where they're building things to become. Getting into number

things to become. Getting into number 60, Barristan 2. This chapter is kind of

60, Barristan 2. This chapter is kind of a slight downgrade in my as I mentioned

a slight downgrade in my as I mentioned for my first one as the as the material

for my first one as the as the material just isn't I think as interesting as his

just isn't I think as interesting as his first chapter but what we do see is

first chapter but what we do see is still very interesting right he's he's

still very interesting right he's he's watching as his Dar is holding court and

watching as his Dar is holding court and the relations with the Junish which are

the relations with the Junish which are growing worse as they bring back Groio's

growing worse as they bring back Groio's head since the commander of the Junkish

head since the commander of the Junkish died during the fighting pit incident.

died during the fighting pit incident. Now, if you don't remember, Groio

Now, if you don't remember, Groio basically was the admiral for Daenerys's

basically was the admiral for Daenerys's quote unquote fleet that she didn't

quote unquote fleet that she didn't really even have anymore. So, it's

really even have anymore. So, it's interesting because you see how if

interesting because you see how if Daenerys was here, Daenerys would have

Daenerys was here, Daenerys would have handled things differently, maybe would

handled things differently, maybe would have gone for more of a direct action,

have gone for more of a direct action, would have openly gone against the

would have openly gone against the Junish. We see Hizdar trying to appease

Junish. We see Hizdar trying to appease them. We see Hizdar, you know, not being

them. We see Hizdar, you know, not being very firm. He's very pliable, it would

very firm. He's very pliable, it would appear, and very bendable, right? And so

appear, and very bendable, right? And so it kind of gets people like Barristan

it kind of gets people like Barristan thinking like okay is Hisdar in league

thinking like okay is Hisdar in league with the Junish does he want slavery to

with the Junish does he want slavery to return and all these things and that's

return and all these things and that's what gets those gears turning right when

what gets those gears turning right when you see things along those lines. I will

you see things along those lines. I will say I think the more interesting part of

say I think the more interesting part of this chapter though is how we get the

this chapter though is how we get the stuff with Quentyn and thank god it's

stuff with Quentyn and thank god it's through Barrison's eyes and not

through Barrison's eyes and not Quentyn's because Barrison's actually an

Quentyn's because Barrison's actually an interesting POV. But, you know, you have

interesting POV. But, you know, you have another part of this that I think is is

another part of this that I think is is fascinating because the Dornishman, even

fascinating because the Dornishman, even after Daenerys has left, they're staying

after Daenerys has left, they're staying at court. They're making their presence

at court. They're making their presence still known. That's something that's

still known. That's something that's going to get the attention of Hizdar,

going to get the attention of Hizdar, right? This guy comes, you know, wanting

right? This guy comes, you know, wanting your wife's hand. You are going to

your wife's hand. You are going to become a political rival. And you also

become a political rival. And you also think about something else. You think

think about something else. You think about these hostages that are coming

about these hostages that are coming back and things that make Hizdar look

back and things that make Hizdar look worse is that all of the hostages that

worse is that all of the hostages that are returned are ones that are related

are returned are ones that are related to the king. They're the ones that would

to the king. They're the ones that would be important to the king and none of

be important to the king and none of them are the ones the queen would have

them are the ones the queen would have wanted. So for instance, people like

wanted. So for instance, people like like Daario or Hero the the unsullied.

like Daario or Hero the the unsullied. Those people are not returned. And so

Those people are not returned. And so again, it makes you feel like, okay,

again, it makes you feel like, okay, this is a little too suspect. His

this is a little too suspect. His getting all the people he cares about

getting all the people he cares about back, but none but none of Daenerys's.

back, but none but none of Daenerys's. Very interesting the way those things

Very interesting the way those things work out. But either way, Ferrison tells

work out. But either way, Ferrison tells the Dornishmen that they need to leave.

the Dornishmen that they need to leave. They have been noticed by the king and

They have been noticed by the king and he urges them to flee, but they seem not

he urges them to flee, but they seem not to listen to their own doom. And this is

to listen to their own doom. And this is going to set up some of the coming

going to set up some of the coming chapters, right, with Quentyn trying to

chapters, right, with Quentyn trying to free a dragon, going to find um the

free a dragon, going to find um the tattered prince, all this stuff that

tattered prince, all this stuff that it doesn't go particularly well. And

it doesn't go particularly well. And that kind of leads us to chapter 61,

that kind of leads us to chapter 61, which unfortunately, again, this video

which unfortunately, again, this video has not had the best start, right? We've

has not had the best start, right? We've had two of the worst plot lines of the

had two of the worst plot lines of the book and two pretty, you know, I I would

book and two pretty, you know, I I would say middle ground chapters with

say middle ground chapters with Barriston and Jon, but I promise it does

Barriston and Jon, but I promise it does get better. Quentyn 3 and chapter 61 to

get better. Quentyn 3 and chapter 61 to me is not as bad as his chapters before.

me is not as bad as his chapters before. Um, you know, his chapters before, they

Um, you know, his chapters before, they lacked a lot of focus. They lacked a lot

lacked a lot of focus. They lacked a lot of meaning in my opinion. Like, why did

of meaning in my opinion. Like, why did we necessarily need these chapters? Uh,

we necessarily need these chapters? Uh, also those chapters had a a lot a lot of

also those chapters had a a lot a lot of con convenience that again convenience

con convenience that again convenience isn't always a bad thing, right? But it

isn't always a bad thing, right? But it felt like, okay, this is a little bit

felt like, okay, this is a little bit overbelievability

overbelievability and Quentyn 3 isn't that at all. Quentyn

and Quentyn 3 isn't that at all. Quentyn 3 is all about setting up this dragon

3 is all about setting up this dragon tamer plotline that we're going to see

tamer plotline that we're going to see in Quentyn 4. And so I think that it

in Quentyn 4. And so I think that it does a decent job of building up some of

does a decent job of building up some of that tension and showing how really

that tension and showing how really inexperienced Quentyn is as a man and

inexperienced Quentyn is as a man and trying to be some politically

trying to be some politically maneuvering person and how he deals with

maneuvering person and how he deals with like for instance the tattered prince.

like for instance the tattered prince. And so I do think that in terms of if

And so I do think that in terms of if you look at like the lower Tyrion

you look at like the lower Tyrion chapters and the lower Quentyn chapters,

chapters and the lower Quentyn chapters, this chapter is definitely above those,

this chapter is definitely above those, right? It's definitely more of a middle

right? It's definitely more of a middle ground of the bad chapters. like this is

ground of the bad chapters. like this is still a chapter I'm going to rank in my

still a chapter I'm going to rank in my bottom 20 of the book, but it's not as

bottom 20 of the book, but it's not as glaringly bad. There is a purpose to

glaringly bad. There is a purpose to this chapter, right? Because you need to

this chapter, right? Because you need to understand how is Quentyn going to be

understand how is Quentyn going to be able to break out this dragon. He has to

able to break out this dragon. He has to have some sort of support. And for that

have some sort of support. And for that support to happen, he also has to give

support to happen, he also has to give something up. And so I think it also

something up. And so I think it also plays in really well with, you know,

plays in really well with, you know, Daenerys and how she's telling Quentyn,

Daenerys and how she's telling Quentyn, you know, you should fear the dragons

you know, you should fear the dragons and all these things and all that. And

and all these things and all that. And really Quentyn almost takes the opposite

really Quentyn almost takes the opposite view. He goes, "Oh, wait. My key to this

view. He goes, "Oh, wait. My key to this is let me get a dragon.

is let me get a dragon. You see the desperation that's kind of

You see the desperation that's kind of building up with Quentyn. And so I think

building up with Quentyn. And so I think of all the chapters so far that we've

of all the chapters so far that we've gotten of Quentyn, this one does the

gotten of Quentyn, this one does the best of actually giving him some part of

best of actually giving him some part of a character that's interesting. And so I

a character that's interesting. And so I do I do like this character of Quentyn

do I do like this character of Quentyn being forced into position where he's

being forced into position where he's uncomfortable. He's very uncomfortable

uncomfortable. He's very uncomfortable with the situation having doing these

with the situation having doing these shady tactics, meeting the tattered

shady tactics, meeting the tattered prince in this very not wellestablished

prince in this very not wellestablished place where it feels like they could be

place where it feels like they could be killed at any point. There is a lot more

killed at any point. There is a lot more of that. There's actually more, you

of that. There's actually more, you know, meaning to this chap that makes it

know, meaning to this chap that makes it have a reason to be here. Unfortunately,

have a reason to be here. Unfortunately, I still don't like Quentyn as a

I still don't like Quentyn as a character. So, this chapter does get

character. So, this chapter does get ranked a bit lower for me because I

ranked a bit lower for me because I don't really like him all that much. But

don't really like him all that much. But more or less what happens in this

more or less what happens in this chapter, it's pretty quick, but Quentyn

chapter, it's pretty quick, but Quentyn decides to meet with the tattered prince

decides to meet with the tattered prince to attempt to hire them in the

to attempt to hire them in the windblown. And I do find again the

windblown. And I do find again the tattered prince is more interesting than

tattered prince is more interesting than Quentyn and he's not a POV character. We

Quentyn and he's not a POV character. We haven't even seen him all that much. But

haven't even seen him all that much. But I'm more interested in him as a

I'm more interested in him as a character. And so when we get that

character. And so when we get that character, you know, on the book page, I

character, you know, on the book page, I enjoy, you know, reading that character

enjoy, you know, reading that character and trying to figure out what his game

and trying to figure out what his game is. and he asks for Pentos. And that's

is. and he asks for Pentos. And that's something that Quentyn does begrudgingly

something that Quentyn does begrudgingly agree with. Albeit, how does that

agree with. Albeit, how does that actually occur? Still kind of left up in

actually occur? Still kind of left up in the air. But either way, Quentyn by the

the air. But either way, Quentyn by the end of this chapter does have his

end of this chapter does have his support to try and take dragon. So yeah,

support to try and take dragon. So yeah, not a bad chapter in terms of, you know,

not a bad chapter in terms of, you know, some of the other stuff we've gotten um

some of the other stuff we've gotten um in this book for the main worst POV

in this book for the main worst POV Tyrion and Quentin. No, nothing great.

Tyrion and Quentin. No, nothing great. But this is where I think you have you

But this is where I think you have you see some of that classic

see some of that classic George knows where to place chapter. You

George knows where to place chapter. You know, coming off of, you know, a not so

know, coming off of, you know, a not so great Tyrion chapter, a not so great

great Tyrion chapter, a not so great Quentyn chapter. He puts Quentyn 3 in

Quentyn chapter. He puts Quentyn 3 in between Barristen, who at this point of

between Barristen, who at this point of the story is probably one of the most

the story is probably one of the most entertaining POVs, one of the most

entertaining POVs, one of the most interesting to read with also one of the

interesting to read with also one of the best chapters of the book. So, George

best chapters of the book. So, George came back spitting. That's literally

came back spitting. That's literally what I have in my notes here. Like I

what I have in my notes here. Like I have the John Con uh 2 chapter ranked

have the John Con uh 2 chapter ranked number 16, which is really high praise

number 16, which is really high praise given how many Theon chapters I have up

given how many Theon chapters I have up here, you know, with the likes of

here, you know, with the likes of Cersei's chapters, you know, the

Cersei's chapters, you know, the epilogue in here, some of John's best

epilogue in here, some of John's best chapters. High praise, right? to be

chapters. High praise, right? to be especially again with Dance with

especially again with Dance with Dragons, if you're in the top 20, that

Dragons, if you're in the top 20, that means you have a very good chapter

means you have a very good chapter because what Dance of Dragons does

because what Dance of Dragons does really well is it has really great

really well is it has really great top-end chapters, but also has really

top-end chapters, but also has really low-end chapters. It doesn't have a lot

low-end chapters. It doesn't have a lot of that middle ground like say Feast for

of that middle ground like say Feast for Crows does, right? And so to be in the

Crows does, right? And so to be in the top 20 means you have a fantastic

top 20 means you have a fantastic chapter. And I I really want to, you

chapter. And I I really want to, you know, say that with John Khan, you know,

know, say that with John Khan, you know, both of his chapters I have ranked

both of his chapters I have ranked within my top 16. He has both of his

within my top 16. He has both of his chapters are top chapters of this book.

chapters are top chapters of this book. And thank God uh he decided to give us

And thank God uh he decided to give us John Khan right after Quentyn as we see

John Khan right after Quentyn as we see the Golden Company land and try to take

the Golden Company land and try to take Rook's rest which is surprisingly easy.

Rook's rest which is surprisingly easy. It tells you how unprepared Westeros

It tells you how unprepared Westeros really is. But it also tells you, yeah,

really is. But it also tells you, yeah, like if a force comes over from Essos,

like if a force comes over from Essos, the response time might be very delayed,

the response time might be very delayed, especially when you're thinking about,

especially when you're thinking about, you know, the Golden Company hasn't come

you know, the Golden Company hasn't come over to Westeros in a number of years.

over to Westeros in a number of years. There isn't, you know, it seems like any

There isn't, you know, it seems like any reason for them to do so. There's no

reason for them to do so. There's no male Blackfires that are are known at

male Blackfires that are are known at this time or even female Blackfires are

this time or even female Blackfires are known at this time. So, you do see a

known at this time. So, you do see a reason as to why this all goes

reason as to why this all goes efficiently. You see the Golden Company,

efficiently. You see the Golden Company, albeit I think they're not as good as

albeit I think they're not as good as they once were, say under Bittersteel,

they once were, say under Bittersteel, because I think they have been a little

because I think they have been a little bit more laxed and especially under

bit more laxed and especially under Harry Strickland at the leader of the

Harry Strickland at the leader of the Golden Company, still shows how great

Golden Company, still shows how great they truly are, right? Not letting birds

they truly are, right? Not letting birds get out, taking the castle efficiently,

get out, taking the castle efficiently, barely even losing anyone. They only

barely even losing anyone. They only lose four men in the taking of an entire

lose four men in the taking of an entire castle that was John Conington's home.

castle that was John Conington's home. It feels a lot like, in my opinion, you

It feels a lot like, in my opinion, you know, Theon coming back to Winterfell.

know, Theon coming back to Winterfell. John Khan is seeing kind of ghosts. He

John Khan is seeing kind of ghosts. He talks about this this one moment where

talks about this this one moment where he and Rhaegar kind of talked about his

he and Rhaegar kind of talked about his lands and things like that and how it

lands and things like that and how it kind of seems like John Khan definitely

kind of seems like John Khan definitely had a little bit of a crush on Rhaegar,

had a little bit of a crush on Rhaegar, but it kind of brings back his youth. It

but it kind of brings back his youth. It brings up John Conington's past, the

brings up John Conington's past, the things that he did during Robert's

things that he did during Robert's rebellion. It brings up kind of his

rebellion. It brings up kind of his failings where he could not find Robert

failings where he could not find Robert in the Battle of the Bells. Again, it

in the Battle of the Bells. Again, it really reminds me of Theon in this book

really reminds me of Theon in this book as well, where Theon goes back to

as well, where Theon goes back to Winterfell and he remembers his past

Winterfell and he remembers his past misdeeds when he took the castle and

misdeeds when he took the castle and betraying Rob. It brings up all these

betraying Rob. It brings up all these fascinating, interesting topics to

fascinating, interesting topics to explore for a character. And then how

explore for a character. And then how does that actually motivate them going

does that actually motivate them going into the future? We get this even

into the future? We get this even further because John Khan, who's someone

further because John Khan, who's someone that isn't like Tywin, or at least

that isn't like Tywin, or at least wasn't in his younger years, he knows

wasn't in his younger years, he knows that if he would have burned the village

that if he would have burned the village to a crisp, he would have found Robert's

to a crisp, he would have found Robert's bones after. He he thinks about this

bones after. He he thinks about this idea that maybe he should be more like

idea that maybe he should be more like Taiwan. That's very interesting when you

Taiwan. That's very interesting when you think about John Khan's position, right?

think about John Khan's position, right? He's the hand of the king, you know,

He's the hand of the king, you know, he's somebody in a very prominent

he's somebody in a very prominent position, the main backing for young

position, the main backing for young griff to be king. you know, will he

griff to be king. you know, will he become more like Taiwan if he's faced

become more like Taiwan if he's faced with situations, you know, should he be

with situations, you know, should he be more cruel, but maybe it's not as

more cruel, but maybe it's not as honorable and things like that, but it

honorable and things like that, but it gets the job done. Should he do those

gets the job done. Should he do those things? And I find that to be a very

things? And I find that to be a very fascinating part of John Conington. And

fascinating part of John Conington. And I think we'll probably explore that to

I think we'll probably explore that to some extent given the future uh of John

some extent given the future uh of John Conington. But John Conington also

Conington. But John Conington also thinks and speaks on his plans in the

thinks and speaks on his plans in the Stormlands and and Westeros as a whole

Stormlands and and Westeros as a whole and how he wants to really take Storm's

and how he wants to really take Storm's End. That is a place that will gain them

End. That is a place that will gain them a lot of respect. They won't be seen as

a lot of respect. They won't be seen as just some foreign invaders to not be

just some foreign invaders to not be taken seriously. They take Storm's End.

taken seriously. They take Storm's End. They may find more allies, specifically

They may find more allies, specifically in places like the Reach, for instance,

in places like the Reach, for instance, or other Stormlander houses. But he also

or other Stormlander houses. But he also talks about denying any marriage

talks about denying any marriage alliances to people like Aegon, as he

alliances to people like Aegon, as he once again holds true to his claim that

once again holds true to his claim that young Griff may need to marry Da

young Griff may need to marry Da Daenerys if she crosses to Westeros.

Daenerys if she crosses to Westeros. Now, the issue with that is going to be

Now, the issue with that is going to be think Ariana is going to break up and

think Ariana is going to break up and shake up that entire plan completely.

shake up that entire plan completely. But it's interesting that John

But it's interesting that John Conington's thinking about that, right?

Conington's thinking about that, right? Given the fact that Daenerys is still in

Given the fact that Daenerys is still in Esso, she's still in Marereine. John

Esso, she's still in Marereine. John Conington is still thinking very much

Conington is still thinking very much into the future. Well, another thing

into the future. Well, another thing that that shows you that John Conington

that that shows you that John Conington doesn't have full control over Young

doesn't have full control over Young Griff and why I think Young Griff will

Griff and why I think Young Griff will marry someone like Arian is because

marry someone like Arian is because we're starting to see Aegon as he

we're starting to see Aegon as he becomes more into his power of making

becomes more into his power of making his own decisions. Right? So, John

his own decisions. Right? So, John Conington for one did not want Duck to

Conington for one did not want Duck to be on Aegon's King's Guard. And Aegon

be on Aegon's King's Guard. And Aegon argues about this and he gets his way in

argues about this and he gets his way in the end because he brings up the

the end because he brings up the argument, well, hey, you know, it's not

argument, well, hey, you know, it's not always having the best fighters near you

always having the best fighters near you that's the best thing. It's people that

that's the best thing. It's people that truly care about you, people that, you

truly care about you, people that, you know, will actually die for you, but

know, will actually die for you, but also have some skill.

also have some skill. You know, he compares, this is what

You know, he compares, this is what eventually gets him to win, is that

eventually gets him to win, is that Jaime Lannister, one of the finest

Jaime Lannister, one of the finest swordsmen during that time period, and

swordsmen during that time period, and yet he killed Aerys Targaryen, his king.

yet he killed Aerys Targaryen, his king. But it shows you right away that Aegon

But it shows you right away that Aegon is taking his own liberties. And so when

is taking his own liberties. And so when I talk about, for instance, in Winds of

I talk about, for instance, in Winds of Winter, when I think, you know, Arian

Winter, when I think, you know, Arian and Aegon are going to marry, it's for

and Aegon are going to marry, it's for reasons like this. We get this talk or

reasons like this. We get this talk or this thought process within John Khan,

this thought process within John Khan, literally right after, literally right

literally right after, literally right after he thinks about how John Khan

after he thinks about how John Khan needs young Griff to marry Daenerys or

needs young Griff to marry Daenerys or to keep him free. when young Griff, you

to keep him free. when young Griff, you know, sees Arian and maybe Aron puts on

know, sees Arian and maybe Aron puts on the moves on Young Griff, Young Griff

the moves on Young Griff, Young Griff might not be able to resist and he might

might not be able to resist and he might get his way and marrying her to their

get his way and marrying her to their cause. But again, like I talked about,

cause. But again, like I talked about, the plan for John Khan is to make a

the plan for John Khan is to make a statement taking Storm's End. And Aegon

statement taking Storm's End. And Aegon agrees with this, but only has one

agrees with this, but only has one change to his plan. He wants to lead the

change to his plan. He wants to lead the attack. And this is very noble, right?

attack. And this is very noble, right? Especially when you have a lot of kings

Especially when you have a lot of kings who don't do this or a lot of lords that

who don't do this or a lot of lords that don't do this. He's very reminiscent to

don't do this. He's very reminiscent to Mar Targaryen. The problem with that,

Mar Targaryen. The problem with that, and again, this is why I think Young

and again, this is why I think Young Griff is somebody that's going to become

Griff is somebody that's going to become a little bit more arrogant. I think

a little bit more arrogant. I think power is going to corrupt him a bit

power is going to corrupt him a bit more, is that when you have somebody

more, is that when you have somebody that's, you know, becoming more like

that's, you know, becoming more like that. When you have somebody like

that. When you have somebody like Daenerys coming over, how is Young Griff

Daenerys coming over, how is Young Griff going to feel about sharing power if

going to feel about sharing power if he's the one that's done all the heavy

he's the one that's done all the heavy lifting, right? Taking Storm's End,

lifting, right? Taking Storm's End, defeating the Tyrells, going to King's

defeating the Tyrells, going to King's Landing, taking King's Landing. I just

Landing, taking King's Landing. I just don't see a world where Young Griff and

don't see a world where Young Griff and Daenerys share power, especially if

Daenerys share power, especially if Young Griff is married to Ariana

Young Griff is married to Ariana already. I This is kind of that

already. I This is kind of that foreshadowing. I feel like that that's

foreshadowing. I feel like that that's going to occur. But also, when you think

going to occur. But also, when you think about it, it's not the smartest thing in

about it, it's not the smartest thing in the world to put, you know, your person

the world to put, you know, your person that everything revolves around in the

that everything revolves around in the front line. It's great in all of that

front line. It's great in all of that things. It's great and it inspires the

things. It's great and it inspires the men, but just like during the Peak

men, but just like during the Peak Rebellion, if one, you know, stray

Rebellion, if one, you know, stray person hits you with something like a

person hits you with something like a boulder or rock from a gate or an arrow,

boulder or rock from a gate or an arrow, you know, pierces you or whatever,

you know, pierces you or whatever, okay, now your cause is doomed. You are

okay, now your cause is doomed. You are in a lot of ways the last Blackfire

in a lot of ways the last Blackfire andor last male Targaryen alive. Again,

andor last male Targaryen alive. Again, not considering Jon if he is a

not considering Jon if he is a Targaryen, if he's not, and he also

Targaryen, if he's not, and he also hasn't been revealed to be one.

hasn't been revealed to be one. putting the last line of basically the

putting the last line of basically the Targaryenss or the Blackfires on the

Targaryenss or the Blackfires on the front lines is kind of not the best

front lines is kind of not the best idea. Again,

idea. Again, I love this chapter. I don't think it's

I love this chapter. I don't think it's as good as his first one because I

as good as his first one because I really do like how we get more into the

really do like how we get more into the lore of the Golden Company and it's

lore of the Golden Company and it's young Griff coming into his own which

young Griff coming into his own which has been foreshadowed by Tyrion telling

has been foreshadowed by Tyrion telling him to go to Westeros. I love his first

him to go to Westeros. I love his first chapter more than his second chapter,

chapter more than his second chapter, but I cannot fault you one bit if you

but I cannot fault you one bit if you think that this chapter is better than

think that this chapter is better than his first chapter. They're both

his first chapter. They're both beautifully done. And this kind of

beautifully done. And this kind of continues and this is kind of the part

continues and this is kind of the part of the book that I I think I was more

of the book that I I think I was more talking about, you know, in terms of

talking about, you know, in terms of when we get to the best parts of the

when we get to the best parts of the book, you know, we just talk about John

book, you know, we just talk about John Khan and how great that chapter is. And

Khan and how great that chapter is. And you got to think about the next chapter.

you got to think about the next chapter. The next chapter is Asha 3. You guys

The next chapter is Asha 3. You guys know how I feel about Asha in this book.

know how I feel about Asha in this book. I love Asha in this book. She's one of

I love Asha in this book. She's one of my favorite characters specifically in

my favorite characters specifically in this book and also going into Winds of

this book and also going into Winds of Winter. But let's get into chapter 63,

Winter. But let's get into chapter 63, Asha 3.

Asha 3. I currently have on my list Asha 3 as

I currently have on my list Asha 3 as being the 13th best chapter of the book.

being the 13th best chapter of the book. So, I have a lot of love for this

So, I have a lot of love for this chapter, but let's kind of go into what

chapter, but let's kind of go into what it is. And this is a weird one because

it is. And this is a weird one because this is the last we have of the north

this is the last we have of the north plot line in terms of Stannis's camp for

plot line in terms of Stannis's camp for the rest of the book. And we still have,

the rest of the book. And we still have, you know, another what 10 or 15 or so

you know, another what 10 or 15 or so more chapters to do. I think one of the

more chapters to do. I think one of the biggest issues that I have with the

biggest issues that I have with the Dance of Dragons before I get into this

Dance of Dragons before I get into this chapter is that some plot lines do not

chapter is that some plot lines do not get resolved in this book and this is

get resolved in this book and this is one of them, right? Like I don't think

one of them, right? Like I don't think this is the worst place to leave it on

this is the worst place to leave it on if you're going to do, you know,

if you're going to do, you know, something before the Battle of Ice, but

something before the Battle of Ice, but at the same time, you know, feeling like

at the same time, you know, feeling like we don't really get the payoff to the

we don't really get the payoff to the Stannis Bolton conflict in this book.

Stannis Bolton conflict in this book. We're forced to wait till winds of

We're forced to wait till winds of winter does feel quite weird. And so

winter does feel quite weird. And so that to me is the weirdest part about a

that to me is the weirdest part about a dance of dragons is out of all five

dance of dragons is out of all five books, it is the one that ends probably

books, it is the one that ends probably I would say on the most cliffhers like

I would say on the most cliffhers like they don't have the most natural

they don't have the most natural conclusions. Like certain plot lines

conclusions. Like certain plot lines definitely do. Like I think Daenerys and

definitely do. Like I think Daenerys and Jon end on you know where they should be

Jon end on you know where they should be right starting up her Dothraki plot and

right starting up her Dothraki plot and then also for Jon dying. But this is the

then also for Jon dying. But this is the one that doesn't really end on that kind

one that doesn't really end on that kind of a note. In the chapter, we follow as

of a note. In the chapter, we follow as Asha and Stannis are camped at a

Asha and Stannis are camped at a Coffter's village around 3 days from

Coffter's village around 3 days from Winterfell. Food is running even shorter

Winterfell. Food is running even shorter and lower. The fish have all been fished

and lower. The fish have all been fished out of the lake. The storm is still

out of the lake. The storm is still coming hard enough to be blinding. And

coming hard enough to be blinding. And to make matters worse, people are

to make matters worse, people are getting more and more desperate. This

getting more and more desperate. This shows the brutality of trying to do some

shows the brutality of trying to do some sort of march in winter. I think a lot

sort of march in winter. I think a lot of what we see in this chapter would

of what we see in this chapter would have represented what has been seen as

have represented what has been seen as like failed invasions of Russia. whether

like failed invasions of Russia. whether that be by Napoleon or the Germans in

that be by Napoleon or the Germans in World War II. This is kind of the same

World War II. This is kind of the same note, right? You're running into the

note, right? You're running into the situation where there's no food. You you

situation where there's no food. You you can't find any. If you even go out, you

can't find any. If you even go out, you know, a little bit past the camp, you

know, a little bit past the camp, you might not ever find your way back to the

might not ever find your way back to the camp and die. People are beginning to do

camp and die. People are beginning to do cannibalism and burnings are constantly

cannibalism and burnings are constantly happening. Everyone is kind of on edge.

happening. Everyone is kind of on edge. All of that tension seems to be boiling

All of that tension seems to be boiling up into this chapter where something

up into this chapter where something drastic may need to occur. And Asha the

drastic may need to occur. And Asha the whole time fears that she may be the

whole time fears that she may be the next person to be burned. And it's one

next person to be burned. And it's one thing to expect your death, but to

thing to expect your death, but to expect your death in a terrible fashion.

expect your death in a terrible fashion. Going out, burning has to probably be

Going out, burning has to probably be one of the worst ways to die. Not

one of the worst ways to die. Not something that's swift and quick. It's a

something that's swift and quick. It's a lot of pain. And we've seen that

lot of pain. And we've seen that throughout the Stannis plotline

throughout the Stannis plotline throughout all of the books. She even

throughout all of the books. She even knows that she needs to stay with

knows that she needs to stay with someone like Justin Massie to kind of

someone like Justin Massie to kind of protect her. People are ready to kind of

protect her. People are ready to kind of sacrifice her, give us any way of

sacrifice her, give us any way of getting out of this snowstorm and going

getting out of this snowstorm and going further on to Winterfell. But eventually

further on to Winterfell. But eventually at dinner, Justin gets pissed off and

at dinner, Justin gets pissed off and leaves. Asha tries to follow, but the

leaves. Asha tries to follow, but the storm is going on too much to see where

storm is going on too much to see where he went. When suddenly Asha hears

he went. When suddenly Asha hears horses. And this is this big moment,

horses. And this is this big moment, right? If you're reading this for the

right? If you're reading this for the first time, you've got to be thinking,

first time, you've got to be thinking, who is this going to be? It's got to be

who is this going to be? It's got to be this force that we just heard about that

this force that we just heard about that we're coming towards stands trying to

we're coming towards stands trying to find them. It has to be the Freys or the

find them. It has to be the Freys or the Manderly Force. But it isn't. And even

Manderly Force. But it isn't. And even though Asha hears these horses, she

though Asha hears these horses, she herself thinks it's the Bolton. But

herself thinks it's the Bolton. But actually, it is just the party that Jon

actually, it is just the party that Jon sent to them with the Iron Bank guy. So,

sent to them with the Iron Bank guy. So, you know, you have one situation where,

you know, you have one situation where, wow, this could have been really bad.

wow, this could have been really bad. Now you go to something where it's

Now you go to something where it's something completely different and it

something completely different and it means a lot for Sus, right? Can Stanis

means a lot for Sus, right? Can Stanis get the backing of the Iron Bank? Now,

get the backing of the Iron Bank? Now, yes, this wouldn't have direct

yes, this wouldn't have direct consequences now because he's out in the

consequences now because he's out in the middle of a snowstorm. He needs to, you

middle of a snowstorm. He needs to, you know, beat Winterfell to actually have a

know, beat Winterfell to actually have a position to actually get an army because

position to actually get an army because it's going to take a long time. But this

it's going to take a long time. But this is very vital and it also is something

is very vital and it also is something else because not only is it just this

else because not only is it just this party that Jon sent to Stannis, it has a

party that Jon sent to Stannis, it has a lot of repercussions. One, you know the

lot of repercussions. One, you know the car Starks are playing you for fools

car Starks are playing you for fools because of Alice and what we've seen in

because of Alice and what we've seen in her plot line with Jon that they would

her plot line with Jon that they would end up knowing. And also, there is an

end up knowing. And also, there is an individual that Asha does not seem to

individual that Asha does not seem to notice.

notice. It is Theon who has been completely aged

It is Theon who has been completely aged and changed. And even the last little

and changed. And even the last little lines of dialogue that we have between

lines of dialogue that we have between the two is hilarious because Theon

the two is hilarious because Theon references the time when he didn't know

references the time when he didn't know who Asha was. Now the roles have been

who Asha was. Now the roles have been switched in reverse. We know that Theon

switched in reverse. We know that Theon and Jane were picked up as as Moors Crow

and Jane were picked up as as Moors Crow food umber had been playing music

food umber had been playing music outside of Winterfell, which is

outside of Winterfell, which is something we hear earlier in Theon's POV

something we hear earlier in Theon's POV that everybody believes is Stannis, but

that everybody believes is Stannis, but in turn actually ends up being Crow Food

in turn actually ends up being Crow Food Umber. But this is it for the rest of

Umber. But this is it for the rest of the book, right? We see Theon showing up

the book, right? We see Theon showing up to Stannis's camp and that's it. There's

to Stannis's camp and that's it. There's no conclusion to the Battle of Ice or

no conclusion to the Battle of Ice or conclusion to this poly that's been

conclusion to this poly that's been building up for this entire book. my

building up for this entire book. my opinion probably the most interesting

opinion probably the most interesting plot lines in terms of one as a whole

plot lines in terms of one as a whole Stannis and the Bolton plotline that we

Stannis and the Bolton plotline that we just don't get to see the conclusion of

just don't get to see the conclusion of it and I think this is why I you know

it and I think this is why I you know struggle with Dance of the Dragons as a

struggle with Dance of the Dragons as a book because I think that it could have

book because I think that it could have happened in this book if we removed

happened in this book if we removed certain plot lines that didn't need to

certain plot lines that didn't need to be there you know if Quentyn was removed

be there you know if Quentyn was removed from this book maybe we get his last

from this book maybe we get his last chapter but he's just introduced with

chapter but he's just introduced with with Danny right you know if we had just

with Danny right you know if we had just taken down a lot Tyrion's chapters

taken down a lot Tyrion's chapters having 12 down to maybe something more

having 12 down to maybe something more like seven chapters.

like seven chapters. You could have seen the battle of ice,

You could have seen the battle of ice, you know, you could have seen the battle

you know, you could have seen the battle of fire and not getting those things

of fire and not getting those things feels like wow. I mean, what a what a

feels like wow. I mean, what a what a weird way to end it for this plotline

weird way to end it for this plotline specifically. But the bangers keep

specifically. But the bangers keep coming as we move on to chapter 64,

coming as we move on to chapter 64, Victarion 2. Again, what I talk about

Victarion 2. Again, what I talk about Victarion is that he's just a fun

Victarion is that he's just a fun character to read. I don't think he's

character to read. I don't think he's the best character or anywhere close to

the best character or anywhere close to one of the my favorite characters, you

one of the my favorite characters, you know, in terms of POVs, but he's just

know, in terms of POVs, but he's just fun to read. You know, the Viction never

fun to read. You know, the Viction never has a chapter like Tyrion in this book,

has a chapter like Tyrion in this book, for instance, does where it's quite

for instance, does where it's quite boring. There's not much going on.

boring. There's not much going on. There's not much character development

There's not much character development or plot development going on. Victarion

or plot development going on. Victarion never has that. Victarion always just

never has that. Victarion always just has pure fun. He's just a joy to read

has pure fun. He's just a joy to read because you never know what he's going

because you never know what he's going to do next. He's just like a kind of a

to do next. He's just like a kind of a dumb, brutish guy and he makes some wild

dumb, brutish guy and he makes some wild decisions. We see how Victarion has made

decisions. We see how Victarion has made Mcquarro and Ror a strong position in

Mcquarro and Ror a strong position in his fleet to the unease of his crew and

his fleet to the unease of his crew and army. If you're looking at this, it's

army. If you're looking at this, it's the same idea of Stannis, but I would

the same idea of Stannis, but I would say almost even heightened. So when

say almost even heightened. So when Stannis takes Mel right into his like

Stannis takes Mel right into his like household and he starts doing these

household and he starts doing these burnings and things and having Rore be

burnings and things and having Rore be on his sigil and all that stuff, it

on his sigil and all that stuff, it sends the wrong message to a lot of

sends the wrong message to a lot of people in Westeros because they believe

people in Westeros because they believe either in the faith of the seven or the

either in the faith of the seven or the old gods. And here it's even more

old gods. And here it's even more heightened because the Ironborn are much

heightened because the Ironborn are much more extreme in their beliefs it would

more extreme in their beliefs it would appear. And so when you have Victarion

appear. And so when you have Victarion who starts, you know, giving sacrifices

who starts, you know, giving sacrifices to Mororrow and Ror, it comes off as a

to Mororrow and Ror, it comes off as a really interesting situation. And you

really interesting situation. And you also you have Victarion who has this

also you have Victarion who has this basically blackened arm and all of that

basically blackened arm and all of that stuff from the last chapter. Victarion

stuff from the last chapter. Victarion starts to become somewhat of an

starts to become somewhat of an interesting figure, right? We see him

interesting figure, right? We see him kind of taking a number of ships as well

kind of taking a number of ships as well and even does a sacrifice to a lore. The

and even does a sacrifice to a lore. The last part of this chapter revolves

last part of this chapter revolves around dragon binder and how no mortal

around dragon binder and how no mortal man can blow it and live. But the dragon

man can blow it and live. But the dragon will respond to the master of it, which

will respond to the master of it, which means he must master the horn with

means he must master the horn with blood. That seems to be the implication

blood. That seems to be the implication that the master of the horn is the one

that the master of the horn is the one that sacrifices the most blood to it.

that sacrifices the most blood to it. And again, we're seeing blood magic prop

And again, we're seeing blood magic prop up and all this other stuff. And again,

up and all this other stuff. And again, there's not a lot really to talk about

there's not a lot really to talk about Victrion 2. It's just a fun chapter of

Victrion 2. It's just a fun chapter of them and their journey going towards

them and their journey going towards Meereen to get to Daenerys. We see the

Meereen to get to Daenerys. We see the growing influence that Rolora has on

growing influence that Rolora has on Victarion and also some of these

Victarion and also some of these mysteries like Dragon Binder and even

mysteries like Dragon Binder and even what Mororrow's true powers are and who

what Mororrow's true powers are and who does he actually serve. There's a lot of

does he actually serve. There's a lot of interesting stuff there. Um there's not

interesting stuff there. Um there's not that much in terms of wow very in-depth

that much in terms of wow very in-depth stuff going on here or as interesting as

stuff going on here or as interesting as other characters right now in the story

other characters right now in the story like Asha and Daenerys where she's at at

like Asha and Daenerys where she's at at this point, Jon where he's at. But

this point, Jon where he's at. But Viction's just a fun character to read.

Viction's just a fun character to read. I think Quinn in his POV uh list or

I think Quinn in his POV uh list or Quinn the GM I should say if you don't

Quinn the GM I should say if you don't know, he ranked, you know, Victarion

know, he ranked, you know, Victarion quite high. But the reason he did it is

quite high. But the reason he did it is because the character is fun to read.

because the character is fun to read. And I think the character is very fun to

And I think the character is very fun to read, but he isn't necessarily all that

read, but he isn't necessarily all that high for me. But getting into chapter

high for me. But getting into chapter 65, Arya 2. And I want to say this as

65, Arya 2. And I want to say this as well before we get into it. This is one

well before we get into it. This is one of my favorite chapters of the book. I

of my favorite chapters of the book. I have this ranked as number eight. So

have this ranked as number eight. So that should tell you how much I I love

that should tell you how much I I love this. But one reason I used to really

this. But one reason I used to really like A Dance Dragons more than A Feast

like A Dance Dragons more than A Feast for Crows is like I've talked about with

for Crows is like I've talked about with certain characters like Cersei for

certain characters like Cersei for instance, they get the better chapters

instance, they get the better chapters and the better conclusion of the arcs in

and the better conclusion of the arcs in this book than in Feast. Like I think

this book than in Feast. Like I think Arya's chapters in Dance are

Arya's chapters in Dance are significantly better than her chapters

significantly better than her chapters in Feast. And this is a clear example

in Feast. And this is a clear example why

why this chapter, the perfect way to

this chapter, the perfect way to describe this chapter is it is like

describe this chapter is it is like Assassin's Creed. if you've, you know,

Assassin's Creed. if you've, you know, played those video games mixed with a

played those video games mixed with a magical element. And it's just so

magical element. And it's just so intriguing how George blends those

intriguing how George blends those elements. We see that Arya is being

elements. We see that Arya is being given this mission to go back as being

given this mission to go back as being cat of the canals, but she's basically

cat of the canals, but she's basically being sent on spy and assassinate

being sent on spy and assassinate mission. She is to spy out a target that

mission. She is to spy out a target that is an older man who makes bets with

is an older man who makes bets with captains as an insurance. And again,

captains as an insurance. And again, once again, Arya proves that she's not a

once again, Arya proves that she's not a facelessman. She's not someone like, you

facelessman. She's not someone like, you know, the kindly one or the waif because

know, the kindly one or the waif because she goes about figuring out who actually

she goes about figuring out who actually wants him dead, which is never the

wants him dead, which is never the reason. That is never something that the

reason. That is never something that the Faceless Men do. The Faceless Men do not

Faceless Men do. The Faceless Men do not care, you know, why this person is dying

care, you know, why this person is dying or who or who wants them dead. It's

or who or who wants them dead. It's about killing them. That is the only

about killing them. That is the only part that matters. And so Arya kind of

part that matters. And so Arya kind of struggles with that a little bit. Like

struggles with that a little bit. Like that's part of her arc as well. But at

that's part of her arc as well. But at the same time, she knows like the kindly

the same time, she knows like the kindly man is kind of playing these people. So

man is kind of playing these people. So she goes along with it, of course. But

she goes along with it, of course. But we see her kind of being instructed of

we see her kind of being instructed of how to do it, right? She knows she's

how to do it, right? She knows she's going to poison him, but she doesn't

going to poison him, but she doesn't know exactly how she's going to do it.

know exactly how she's going to do it. She needs to practice. And so she has

She needs to practice. And so she has help. She has the waif, you know,

help. She has the waif, you know, instruct her how to prepare. And even

instruct her how to prepare. And even she's shown the hidden place where the

she's shown the hidden place where the faces are kept. And this part of the

faces are kept. And this part of the chapter is just so interesting because

chapter is just so interesting because still up to this point, we don't know a

still up to this point, we don't know a lot of how everything works with the

lot of how everything works with the faceless men. and seeing Arya being

faceless men. and seeing Arya being given this this face of like this, you

given this this face of like this, you know, really ugly and sick and poor

know, really ugly and sick and poor looking girl.

looking girl. But how does that work? Right? It seems

But how does that work? Right? It seems like there's some magic here. It would

like there's some magic here. It would appear there's also some like carving of

appear there's also some like carving of the face into her, right? She becomes

the face into her, right? She becomes this person where she has the memories

this person where she has the memories of this girl being beaten. Incredibly

of this girl being beaten. Incredibly intriguing and really I I want to get

intriguing and really I I want to get more of this in the next book. It's why

more of this in the next book. It's why I really like Arya in the next book

I really like Arya in the next book compared to how I I haven't been the

compared to how I I haven't been the biggest fan of her and Feast for Crows.

biggest fan of her and Feast for Crows. Um I'm really interested to see, you

Um I'm really interested to see, you know, how this kind of concludes, right?

know, how this kind of concludes, right? How Arya uses this in the future. But

How Arya uses this in the future. But Arya goes about then going back and

Arya goes about then going back and doing her usual, you know, thing,

doing her usual, you know, thing, practicing how she's going to poison or

practicing how she's going to poison or how she's going to poison the man. This

how she's going to poison the man. This chapter does a great job of building the

chapter does a great job of building the tension towards that moment. Uh, if you

tension towards that moment. Uh, if you guys have watched Better Call Saul,

guys have watched Better Call Saul, there's this moment early on in the

there's this moment early on in the actual series where Nacho is more or

actual series where Nacho is more or less trying to kill Hector. He's trying

less trying to kill Hector. He's trying to take out his pills and just have them

to take out his pills and just have them be sugar pills or whatever so that

be sugar pills or whatever so that Hector will die. And so, he does this

Hector will die. And so, he does this thing where he trains trying to throw it

thing where he trains trying to throw it into his jacket pocket, right? And it's

into his jacket pocket, right? And it's very similar to what Arya is doing here,

very similar to what Arya is doing here, right? because she's going to be doing

right? because she's going to be doing some sort of slight of hand to get her

some sort of slight of hand to get her poisoned coin into this gold bag of the

poisoned coin into this gold bag of the person going to meet the old man who

person going to meet the old man who does the insurance because the insurance

does the insurance because the insurance man always bites into the gold to make

man always bites into the gold to make sure it's real or whatever. And so it

sure it's real or whatever. And so it really is so awesome the way this all

really is so awesome the way this all plays out. It feels like an Assassin's

plays out. It feels like an Assassin's Creed mission straight out of it. And we

Creed mission straight out of it. And we see that by the end of it she is able to

see that by the end of it she is able to pull it off and the man dies from the

pull it off and the man dies from the poisoning. I love the chapter. it it's

poisoning. I love the chapter. it it's just so perfectly done that I you know

just so perfectly done that I you know one of the things I think about with

one of the things I think about with Peace for Crows and what holds it back

Peace for Crows and what holds it back as being a great book in the series. I

as being a great book in the series. I think it's really good still. I have it

think it's really good still. I have it as my fourth rated book of the main

as my fourth rated book of the main series.

series. But if it had had chapters like the

But if it had had chapters like the inclusion of Arya's journey, if it had

inclusion of Arya's journey, if it had chapters like what we're going to see in

chapters like what we're going to see in the next chapter with Cersei 2,

the next chapter with Cersei 2, I think it would have been received much

I think it would have been received much better than what it was because A Dance

better than what it was because A Dance Dragons gets a lot of the high moments

Dragons gets a lot of the high moments of A Feast for Crows that A Feast for

of A Feast for Crows that A Feast for Crows took all the time to build up to.

Crows took all the time to build up to. A lot of those moments go to Dance

A lot of those moments go to Dance Dragons. And the next chapter, I think,

Dragons. And the next chapter, I think, is quite literally the biggest example

is quite literally the biggest example of them, right? Cersei 2, which is the

of them, right? Cersei 2, which is the walk of atonement chapter. It's one of

walk of atonement chapter. It's one of the most powerful and I think

the most powerful and I think fascinating and horrible chapters to

fascinating and horrible chapters to read in all of the books. It is really

read in all of the books. It is really the conclusion of her Feast for Crows

the conclusion of her Feast for Crows arc. In my opinion, I think that yes, it

arc. In my opinion, I think that yes, it was done well. if you're going to split

was done well. if you're going to split up Cersei and you didn't have time for

up Cersei and you didn't have time for her, picking the moment where she gets

her, picking the moment where she gets captured by the faith works really well

captured by the faith works really well for Feast for Crows. But in my opinion,

for Feast for Crows. But in my opinion, the true conclusion of that arc comes

the true conclusion of that arc comes here with Cersei 2. And in my opinion,

here with Cersei 2. And in my opinion, you know, getting into chapter 66,

you know, getting into chapter 66, George writes this chapter so well. The

George writes this chapter so well. The emotions that we go through in this

emotions that we go through in this chapter are just all over the place.

chapter are just all over the place. It's a slow building of tension and of

It's a slow building of tension and of emotion the morning of her walk of

emotion the morning of her walk of atonement. as Cersei herself is anxious

atonement. as Cersei herself is anxious to just get get this thing done with.

to just get get this thing done with. But it's also kind of left to slowly

But it's also kind of left to slowly build into it so that Cersei's anxious

build into it so that Cersei's anxious feeling only grows and her dread grows

feeling only grows and her dread grows because not only are they going to, you

because not only are they going to, you know, make her walk this whole journey

know, make her walk this whole journey right all the way back to the Red Keep,

right all the way back to the Red Keep, they're going to humiliate her as well.

they're going to humiliate her as well. They're going to, you know, have her

They're going to, you know, have her shaved all over her hair and all these

shaved all over her hair and all these other different things. We see this

other different things. We see this proud version of Cersei, but it's slowly

proud version of Cersei, but it's slowly broken. The more and more the chapter

broken. The more and more the chapter goes on. The more this chapter goes on,

goes on. The more this chapter goes on, the more you feel bad for her. And even

the more you feel bad for her. And even me, I dislike Cersei. I don't like her.

me, I dislike Cersei. I don't like her. I don't think a lot of people, even

I don't think a lot of people, even people that like love reading Cersei's

people that like love reading Cersei's POVs, it's not because you like her as a

POVs, it's not because you like her as a person. It's because she's entertaining

person. It's because she's entertaining to read. But you feel bad for Cersei.

to read. But you feel bad for Cersei. You you you hate the High Sparrow and

You you you hate the High Sparrow and the Septas and the Faith more than you

the Septas and the Faith more than you hate Cersei here because George does

hate Cersei here because George does this really fascinating thing where we

this really fascinating thing where we come off of a storm of where Cersei's at

come off of a storm of where Cersei's at her most unlikable and by the end of

her most unlikable and by the end of Dance Dragons, you're like, man, I

Dance Dragons, you're like, man, I actually do feel really bad for her as

actually do feel really bad for her as she's tripped naked and she's paraded

she's tripped naked and she's paraded around the city and people are calling

around the city and people are calling all sorts of names and throwing things

all sorts of names and throwing things at her and she's slipping and all these

at her and she's slipping and all these things. It's just so well done, you

things. It's just so well done, you know, in the way that those things are

know, in the way that those things are written. And it sets up this compelling

written. And it sets up this compelling arc for the next book of how does Cersei

arc for the next book of how does Cersei deal with the faith? Will she do some

deal with the faith? Will she do some sort of big explosion killing some of

sort of big explosion killing some of the leaders of the, you know, the faith

the leaders of the, you know, the faith at this time, the high sparrow

at this time, the high sparrow specifically, and maybe Marjorie like in

specifically, and maybe Marjorie like in the show? Do we never see her get her

the show? Do we never see her get her revenge on the faith until all the way

revenge on the faith until all the way when she comes back maybe to power in a

when she comes back maybe to power in a dream of spring? We just don't know. But

dream of spring? We just don't know. But the emotion that George gets us to feel

the emotion that George gets us to feel towards the faith and the high sparrow

towards the faith and the high sparrow is fantastic as Cersei is brought to

is fantastic as Cersei is brought to crying completely breaking down really

crying completely breaking down really this facade that she's had of being a

this facade that she's had of being a proud Lannister and of the lion what she

proud Lannister and of the lion what she started this chapter of trying to be.

started this chapter of trying to be. She's completely broken. And at this, it

She's completely broken. And at this, it seems a glimmer of hope appears for

seems a glimmer of hope appears for Cersei as Robert Strong, aka probably

Cersei as Robert Strong, aka probably Gregor, is introduced to her as her

Gregor, is introduced to her as her champion. In my opinion, this is a

champion. In my opinion, this is a perfect ending for the story of Cersei

perfect ending for the story of Cersei throughout the last two books, and it is

throughout the last two books, and it is a major highlight of book five for me. I

a major highlight of book five for me. I I put a lot of respect in this chapter.

I put a lot of respect in this chapter. I I It's rated number four for me. It's

I I It's rated number four for me. It's just beautifully done. I've got to give

just beautifully done. I've got to give George all of his flowers for, you know,

George all of his flowers for, you know, not only introducing and taking a risk

not only introducing and taking a risk of giving us one of our main antagonists

of giving us one of our main antagonists and villains as a POV, but also making

and villains as a POV, but also making her by far one of the best written

her by far one of the best written characters in book four and five as a

characters in book four and five as a whole. So, getting into chapter 66, we

whole. So, getting into chapter 66, we we kind of get into the finale of

we kind of get into the finale of Tyrion's whole, I guess, arc uh in this

Tyrion's whole, I guess, arc uh in this book. and saying the finale of and I

book. and saying the finale of and I guess the conclusion of his arc in this

guess the conclusion of his arc in this book is kind of a loose statement in my

book is kind of a loose statement in my opinion because very like Barrison when

opinion because very like Barrison when we talk about his final chapter this

we talk about his final chapter this isn't really the conclusion of his arc

isn't really the conclusion of his arc the conclusion of his arc is basically

the conclusion of his arc is basically going to happen within the beginning of

going to happen within the beginning of a winds of winter we've even seen some

a winds of winter we've even seen some of that in his sample chapters there's

of that in his sample chapters there's still a lot more Tyrion that needed to

still a lot more Tyrion that needed to go and you could tell we didn't

go and you could tell we didn't necessarily get there and so one of my

necessarily get there and so one of my biggest criticisms I'm going to have

biggest criticisms I'm going to have Tyrion you know when we get to the

Tyrion you know when we get to the conclusion And we talk about the POVs is

conclusion And we talk about the POVs is I think George really should have

I think George really should have allowed for Tyrion to travel a lot more

allowed for Tyrion to travel a lot more off the page uh than what we actually

off the page uh than what we actually got. You know, he has 12 chapters in

got. You know, he has 12 chapters in this book. And I think if I asked you

this book. And I think if I asked you guys right now and you hadn't read Dance

guys right now and you hadn't read Dance Dragons in say five years to name some

Dragons in say five years to name some of your favorite, you know, Tyrion

of your favorite, you know, Tyrion chapters, it'd probably be like maybe

chapters, it'd probably be like maybe the young griff section, right, where

the young griff section, right, where the reveal comes out of who he, you

the reveal comes out of who he, you know, he is or whatnot. Or, you know,

know, he is or whatnot. Or, you know, maybe him with Yo at the very beginning.

maybe him with Yo at the very beginning. And then after that, you kind of

And then after that, you kind of remember some of his bad chapters, but

remember some of his bad chapters, but they all kind of blend together. And so

they all kind of blend together. And so this finale is kind of a bittersweet one

this finale is kind of a bittersweet one for Tyrion. It's by far, in my opinion,

for Tyrion. It's by far, in my opinion, of any character in this book, even

of any character in this book, even Quentyn, like of the characters that

Quentyn, like of the characters that have multiple POVs, um, his is the

have multiple POVs, um, his is the weakest because not only is his

weakest because not only is his storyline outside of maybe Quentyn's the

storyline outside of maybe Quentyn's the weakest, it's also the fact that he has

weakest, it's also the fact that he has so much time to it and this is what we

so much time to it and this is what we get for his conclusion. So his

get for his conclusion. So his conclusion basically ends up being okay,

conclusion basically ends up being okay, he's signing some papers and all this

he's signing some papers and all this stuff for the second son. So that, you

stuff for the second son. So that, you know, if they go to king, if they go to

know, if they go to king, if they go to Westeros and they, you know, win and all

Westeros and they, you know, win and all this stuff, they're going to be granted

this stuff, they're going to be granted all this gold from Casterly Rock,

all this gold from Casterly Rock, certain lands, all this type of stuff.

certain lands, all this type of stuff. Brown Ben Plum specifically benefits

Brown Ben Plum specifically benefits really well from this deal. And so it's

really well from this deal. And so it's a lot of that stuff where it's

a lot of that stuff where it's intriguing to find out more about the

intriguing to find out more about the Second Sons. And you're seeing Tyrion

Second Sons. And you're seeing Tyrion actually, you know, use his wit with

actually, you know, use his wit with other people like the Second Sons who

other people like the Second Sons who are some more interesting characters,

are some more interesting characters, especially Brown, Ben Plum. I'm glad we

especially Brown, Ben Plum. I'm glad we got to see more of him towards the end

got to see more of him towards the end of the story after he leaves Daenerys.

of the story after he leaves Daenerys. And so that aspect of it I think is

And so that aspect of it I think is better, right? I think the supporting

better, right? I think the supporting cast for Tyrion in this chapter is

cast for Tyrion in this chapter is probably the best it's been since young

probably the best it's been since young Griff. Um, you can maybe argue like

Griff. Um, you can maybe argue like Mororrow in that one chapter that he was

Mororrow in that one chapter that he was in with Tyrion, but personally, you

in with Tyrion, but personally, you know, I think that this element made it

know, I think that this element made it just far more interesting. And so, that

just far more interesting. And so, that part of it is pretty solid, but it for a

part of it is pretty solid, but it for a final chapter of a POV, it's just not

final chapter of a POV, it's just not much really happening here in terms of

much really happening here in terms of big moments. You then go to Tyrion and

big moments. You then go to Tyrion and Penny, and Tyrion is kind of in a weird

Penny, and Tyrion is kind of in a weird spot because on one hand, he actually

spot because on one hand, he actually believes that Penny has gotten the flux,

believes that Penny has gotten the flux, that she possibly may die to the

that she possibly may die to the sickness because of the way maybe she's

sickness because of the way maybe she's sleeping, she seems weaker, whatever you

sleeping, she seems weaker, whatever you want to say. And so, you have that part

want to say. And so, you have that part of it, but you also have the part of it

of it, but you also have the part of it that Penny is just not waking up, right?

that Penny is just not waking up, right? She's still playing the girl kind of

She's still playing the girl kind of like Sansa in a lot of ways because

like Sansa in a lot of ways because she's not realizing how dire the

she's not realizing how dire the situation is, right? She talks to Tyrion

situation is, right? She talks to Tyrion about dreaming about her brother and

about dreaming about her brother and them jousting and Tyrion sort of slaps

them jousting and Tyrion sort of slaps her which you know again it should paint

her which you know again it should paint you that Tyrion is not a good person.

you that Tyrion is not a good person. You know hitting women not a right away

You know hitting women not a right away not a good good sign. But in terms of

not a good good sign. But in terms of you know Tyrion it's him wanting her to

you know Tyrion it's him wanting her to wake up right of having to hide all

wake up right of having to hide all these things from her you know

these things from her you know especially you know we hear this idea

especially you know we hear this idea that Tyrion you know knows they were

that Tyrion you know knows they were likely going to die to those lions if it

likely going to die to those lions if it wasn't for Daenerys who stopped that.

wasn't for Daenerys who stopped that. Penny still doesn't know those things.

Penny still doesn't know those things. She doesn't realize that yes, her

She doesn't realize that yes, her animals are now probably being eaten.

animals are now probably being eaten. Like she's just somebody that is not

Like she's just somebody that is not very aware of the world. And I think

very aware of the world. And I think there's a lot of people that I guess you

there's a lot of people that I guess you know you guys might maybe watching this

know you guys might maybe watching this might have someone you know that's kind

might have someone you know that's kind of like this. Like they're kind of

of like this. Like they're kind of living in their own little bubble and

living in their own little bubble and don't realize what's going on in the

don't realize what's going on in the general world. That's kind of Penny. So

general world. That's kind of Penny. So Penny and Tyrion then have to go get

Penny and Tyrion then have to go get some armor because you know they're

some armor because you know they're going to be going into a battle. It

going to be going into a battle. It could be the difference between life and

could be the difference between life and death. albeit a lot of the armor and

death. albeit a lot of the armor and weapons that they have are not the best

weapons that they have are not the best and have already been worn by people

and have already been worn by people that have died before them. We also see

that have died before them. We also see Jorah, you know, come up and he's

Jorah, you know, come up and he's getting some decent armor as well. But

getting some decent armor as well. But the final conclusion and and where this

the final conclusion and and where this whole chapter wraps up is them

whole chapter wraps up is them realizing, yeah, we've got to make sure

realizing, yeah, we've got to make sure that the second sons go for Daenerys.

that the second sons go for Daenerys. They are on the losing side. And that's

They are on the losing side. And that's true. And so that's kind of where this

true. And so that's kind of where this plot line ends. And and you're thinking

plot line ends. And and you're thinking like that's it, right? like Tyrion, who

like that's it, right? like Tyrion, who was, you know, arguably the best POV of

was, you know, arguably the best POV of the last two books that he was in, Storm

the last two books that he was in, Storm of Swords and Clash of Kings, he was up

of Swords and Clash of Kings, he was up there as probably the best POV in both

there as probably the best POV in both of those books.

of those books. And this book,

And this book, he just isn't all that great,

he just isn't all that great, unfortunately. And that's just the case

unfortunately. And that's just the case of it. He just isn't all that good. He

of it. He just isn't all that good. He doesn't have a great finale. So, for

doesn't have a great finale. So, for instance, characters like Daenerys, for

instance, characters like Daenerys, for instance, they have a really good

instance, they have a really good finale. Um, you know, at least in Danny

finale. Um, you know, at least in Danny N anyway, one of the best chapters of

N anyway, one of the best chapters of the book. And you have characters like

the book. And you have characters like maybe Jon who I think Jon's been good

maybe Jon who I think Jon's been good pretty much all throughout the whole

pretty much all throughout the whole story but he has a massive payoff at the

story but he has a massive payoff at the end with his death if you don't believe

end with his death if you don't believe that maybe him bleeding out slash

that maybe him bleeding out slash passing out Tyrion just feels like he

passing out Tyrion just feels like he didn't really function all that well in

didn't really function all that well in this story and so let's kind of move on

this story and so let's kind of move on not harp on Tyrion too much moving into

not harp on Tyrion too much moving into chapter 68 Barristen 3. So Barrison,

chapter 68 Barristen 3. So Barrison, we're, you know, only a couple uh

we're, you know, only a couple uh chapters from the end, but Barrison has

chapters from the end, but Barrison has two really important ones later in the

two really important ones later in the book. And Barrison 3 is my favorite of

book. And Barrison 3 is my favorite of all of his chapters. For me, I have

all of his chapters. For me, I have Barrison 3 ranked at number seven. So I

Barrison 3 ranked at number seven. So I really want to point, you know, some

really want to point, you know, some attention to this. If you think about my

attention to this. If you think about my rankings of the chapters of A Dance with

rankings of the chapters of A Dance with Dragons of the top 10, I have seven of

Dragons of the top 10, I have seven of those that are within the last like 25

those that are within the last like 25 chapters of the book. This is kind of

chapters of the book. This is kind of again where the book really peaks and

again where the book really peaks and really hits its stride. And Barrison 3

really hits its stride. And Barrison 3 plays out a lot like Ned's coup in a in

plays out a lot like Ned's coup in a in a lot of ways uh for book one where it's

a lot of ways uh for book one where it's Barrison, you know, he's going over this

Barrison, you know, he's going over this plan with Scahasa's the shave plate

plan with Scahasa's the shave plate about what they're going to do and it

about what they're going to do and it really feels like and it really reminds

really feels like and it really reminds me of Ned and Littlefinger. Now, it has

me of Ned and Littlefinger. Now, it has a different outcome here for Barrison.

a different outcome here for Barrison. His coup actually goes off pretty well.

His coup actually goes off pretty well. uh some things go off that aren't really

uh some things go off that aren't really in his control, but for the most part,

in his control, but for the most part, what he wanted to accomplish does

what he wanted to accomplish does happen. But it feels very Ned and

happen. But it feels very Ned and Littlefingeresque where Barriston, you

Littlefingeresque where Barriston, you know, doesn't want to do some

know, doesn't want to do some dishonorable acts and he wants to do

dishonorable acts and he wants to do this very honorably and he's kind of

this very honorably and he's kind of doubting himself if this is the right

doubting himself if this is the right thing to do while you have someone like

thing to do while you have someone like Scahas who's kind of feeding into those

Scahas who's kind of feeding into those bad impulses and trying to convince

bad impulses and trying to convince Barrison to do certain actions. Feels

Barrison to do certain actions. Feels very similar to that. It's why I like

very similar to that. It's why I like Barrison a lot. He's very similar to

Barrison a lot. He's very similar to Ned. information that Barrison has, even

Ned. information that Barrison has, even the things that he, you know, kind of

the things that he, you know, kind of thinks about, right? All throughout this

thinks about, right? All throughout this chapter, he realizes the danger he's in,

chapter, he realizes the danger he's in, how this could go all wrong and he could

how this could go all wrong and he could die. He thinks about, you know, his

die. He thinks about, you know, his life, some of the things that maybe he

life, some of the things that maybe he did wrong. You know, maybe Duskandale

did wrong. You know, maybe Duskandale with Aerys or thinking about a past love

with Aerys or thinking about a past love and a Shara Dane that never could be

and a Shara Dane that never could be because he was in the King's Guard. He

because he was in the King's Guard. He even thinks about knighting some of the

even thinks about knighting some of the boys because if he dies, who's going to

boys because if he dies, who's going to knight them? There's a lot that goes

knight them? There's a lot that goes through Barrison's mind as the tension

through Barrison's mind as the tension kind of builds in the pit of Barrison's

kind of builds in the pit of Barrison's stomach the whole day, right? This

stomach the whole day, right? This happens, you know, this talk happens a

happens, you know, this talk happens a little bit, you know, basically a day

little bit, you know, basically a day before it actually occurs. And you can

before it actually occurs. And you can feel that tension as it slowly slowly

feel that tension as it slowly slowly builds with us the you know the audience

builds with us the you know the audience and also Barrist because the last time

and also Barrist because the last time we saw somebody try to do something like

we saw somebody try to do something like this didn't go well for Ned and he got

this didn't go well for Ned and he got betrayed and we still at this point

betrayed and we still at this point don't know how much we can trust Scahas

don't know how much we can trust Scahas and what is he actually working towards

and what is he actually working towards and so you know you have Barrist who

and so you know you have Barrist who does this this coup. He basically puts

does this this coup. He basically puts his daughter off of the throne, captures

his daughter off of the throne, captures him in the middle of the night, taking

him in the middle of the night, taking down a pit fighter and all that stuff.

down a pit fighter and all that stuff. And it's really remarkable the way

And it's really remarkable the way George does it and kind of has a nice

George does it and kind of has a nice twist on it where everything seems to be

twist on it where everything seems to be going right for Barristan. It seems

going right for Barristan. It seems almost too perfect and it is because by

almost too perfect and it is because by the end of it when you see mysteriously

the end of it when you see mysteriously Resnak who is somebody that was supposed

Resnak who is somebody that was supposed to already be in captive, you know, by

to already be in captive, you know, by the shave pay by Scahas. Interesting

the shave pay by Scahas. Interesting that that didn't actually occur.

that that didn't actually occur. we see that the dragons are released and

we see that the dragons are released and so everything went out, you know, on a

so everything went out, you know, on a hitch. Everything went perfectly well

hitch. Everything went perfectly well for Barrist specifically, but

for Barrist specifically, but unfortunately the dragons have been

unfortunately the dragons have been released upon the city.

released upon the city. And that gets us to uh the next chapter,

And that gets us to uh the next chapter, which is number 69 for Quentyn or we're

which is number 69 for Quentyn or we're basically going to go in parallel to

basically going to go in parallel to what bar what's happening with Barrison,

what bar what's happening with Barrison, we're going to then go to Quentyn. And I

we're going to then go to Quentyn. And I do think this is Quentyn's best chapter

do think this is Quentyn's best chapter of the book. Undoubtedly, it's the one

of the book. Undoubtedly, it's the one where it builds off the tension of the

where it builds off the tension of the last chapter where it's completely

last chapter where it's completely foreshadowed based upon what Resnak

foreshadowed based upon what Resnak says. We know the dragons are going to

says. We know the dragons are going to at least be released, but we don't know

at least be released, but we don't know how that's going to end up. We don't

how that's going to end up. We don't know how Quentyn's plan is going to go.

know how Quentyn's plan is going to go. And so, whereas Barrison's plan seems to

And so, whereas Barrison's plan seems to go off without a hitch, Quentyn's is

go off without a hitch, Quentyn's is almost the opposite, where everything

almost the opposite, where everything that could possibly goes wrong goes

that could possibly goes wrong goes wrong. Even simple things as having the

wrong. Even simple things as having the right password to get into the pyramid

right password to get into the pyramid where the dragons are goes completely

where the dragons are goes completely wrong because Quentyn doesn't know that

wrong because Quentyn doesn't know that right now the brazen beasts are also

right now the brazen beasts are also trying to do this coup. And so they use

trying to do this coup. And so they use the wrong words. And so you have then a

the wrong words. And so you have then a whole breakout and fight that happens

whole breakout and fight that happens between the windb blown and then also

between the windb blown and then also the brazen beast.

the brazen beast. Quentyn himself is almost killed in this

Quentyn himself is almost killed in this little skirmish. But they do eventually

little skirmish. But they do eventually get to the dragons and this is where

get to the dragons and this is where everything pretty much goes wrong.

everything pretty much goes wrong. wasion looks to try and flee and get out

wasion looks to try and flee and get out of the pit that he's been trapped in. We

of the pit that he's been trapped in. We see that some of the chains have broken

see that some of the chains have broken one of the dragons. Everything is just

one of the dragons. Everything is just that could possibly go wrong for Quentyn

that could possibly go wrong for Quentyn goes wrong. Quentyn trying to be the

goes wrong. Quentyn trying to be the hero and trying to be this this person

hero and trying to be this this person to claim a dragon because he does have

to claim a dragon because he does have dragon blood within him. He tries to do

dragon blood within him. He tries to do what Daenerys did. He has this whip and

what Daenerys did. He has this whip and he tries to whip Viserion into liking

he tries to whip Viserion into liking him or submitting to him. Quentyn is

him or submitting to him. Quentyn is never that person. He's never the strong

never that person. He's never the strong willed person or the most muscular. And

willed person or the most muscular. And he goes down in a ball of flame with

he goes down in a ball of flame with Rhaegal burning him and killing him.

Rhaegal burning him and killing him. Now, we're told he doesn't die for

Now, we're told he doesn't die for another three days. And I want to

another three days. And I want to preference. Quentyn is dead. He's not

preference. Quentyn is dead. He's not coming back. I don't care what anybody

coming back. I don't care what anybody else says. If George brings back this

else says. If George brings back this character, I will just be like, I don't

character, I will just be like, I don't even know what I would say. I'd be

even know what I would say. I'd be extremely disappointed because this

extremely disappointed because this feels like the culmination of Quentyn's

feels like the culmination of Quentyn's arc. Now, do I like really love this

arc. Now, do I like really love this chapter? No. I still have this as a

chapter? No. I still have this as a middle of the pack chapter because I

middle of the pack chapter because I don't really like Quentyn that much or

don't really like Quentyn that much or even care about him as a character to

even care about him as a character to this point. I think he's wasted more

this point. I think he's wasted more time in this story than added to it. So,

time in this story than added to it. So, at least in this chapter though, there

at least in this chapter though, there is emotion there. there is, you know, a

is emotion there. there is, you know, a feeling of tension, everything going

feeling of tension, everything going wrong, a bit of, you know, sadness that

wrong, a bit of, you know, sadness that Quentyn goes out in a very horrific way,

Quentyn goes out in a very horrific way, and you almost feel like Quentyn, why

and you almost feel like Quentyn, why are you this stupid while you're reading

are you this stupid while you're reading it? And so, yes, you know, this is the

it? And so, yes, you know, this is the conclusion of the character for me. I

conclusion of the character for me. I believe Quentyn is dead. I don't see any

believe Quentyn is dead. I don't see any relevance to really bring him back as a

relevance to really bring him back as a character. I just think he needs to die.

character. I just think he needs to die. And especially when we're trying to

And especially when we're trying to condense the story and we have far too

condense the story and we have far too many POVs in Meereine, having Quentyn be

many POVs in Meereine, having Quentyn be alive just doesn't really sit right to

alive just doesn't really sit right to me and doesn't really make all that much

me and doesn't really make all that much sense. But that ends the Quentyn arc and

sense. But that ends the Quentyn arc and gets us into the last four chapters of

gets us into the last four chapters of the book, some of the best of the entire

the book, some of the best of the entire series. So chapter 70 is the conclusion

series. So chapter 70 is the conclusion to John's arc as we get into John 13.

to John's arc as we get into John 13. And John 13 to me is the perfect

And John 13 to me is the perfect conclusion of this story. Every single

conclusion of this story. Every single chapter has been building up to this

chapter has been building up to this moment where Jon basically is portraying

moment where Jon basically is portraying what the Night's Watch believe and them

what the Night's Watch believe and them turning on him. Everything has led up to

turning on him. Everything has led up to that moment. And so, so that just

that moment. And so, so that just completely boils over here. And what I

completely boils over here. And what I think is great is, you know, regardless

think is great is, you know, regardless of what you think about Quentyn, we have

of what you think about Quentyn, we have two POV characters that basically die

two POV characters that basically die backto back with Quentyn and then Jon.

backto back with Quentyn and then Jon. And so, we start this chapter and it

And so, we start this chapter and it starts kind of calm. You know, it's Jon

starts kind of calm. You know, it's Jon planning to go to Hardhome with the

planning to go to Hardhome with the Night's Watch, the bulk majority of

Night's Watch, the bulk majority of their strength to try and relieve, you

their strength to try and relieve, you know, whatever is left of what is at

know, whatever is left of what is at Hardome. And this already gets met with

Hardome. And this already gets met with massive disapproval from people like Mel

massive disapproval from people like Mel and Cise who believe they should just

and Cise who believe they should just let them have their own fate, right? And

let them have their own fate, right? And I to an extent I agree with them because

I to an extent I agree with them because what could Jon really do if there's this

what could Jon really do if there's this big, you know, army of the others there?

big, you know, army of the others there? the Knights Watchmen just do not have

the Knights Watchmen just do not have the power and strength to fight them. We

the power and strength to fight them. We saw that for instance in the television

saw that for instance in the television show where they decided to go with Jon

show where they decided to go with Jon going to hardome uh regardless. And so I

going to hardome uh regardless. And so I do personally think it's interesting

do personally think it's interesting that we start out this chapter with Jon

that we start out this chapter with Jon having one plan and then getting bounced

having one plan and then getting bounced to another plan. And it just kind of

to another plan. And it just kind of builds up John being this leader who

builds up John being this leader who hasn't been very good at this, right?

hasn't been very good at this, right? And so when we continue on after this um

And so when we continue on after this um meeting, he decides to go forward with

meeting, he decides to go forward with it anyway and starts making the plans.

it anyway and starts making the plans. But he receives a letter and this letter

But he receives a letter and this letter has sparked a ton of discussion about

has sparked a ton of discussion about who wrote it, why they wrote it, what's

who wrote it, why they wrote it, what's the point of this letter. It's one of my

the point of this letter. It's one of my favorite discussions in the community.

favorite discussions in the community. It's one of the biggest theories on the

It's one of the biggest theories on the pink letter. It's supposedly written by

pink letter. It's supposedly written by Ramsay. It could be somebody else like

Ramsay. It could be somebody else like Mance, Stannis, Theon. There's been a

Mance, Stannis, Theon. There's been a number of theories that have come from

number of theories that have come from this, but it's so intriguing because of

this, but it's so intriguing because of what's in the letter, because of what's

what's in the letter, because of what's to come with the Battle of Ice plotline.

to come with the Battle of Ice plotline. Because we didn't get Stannis's, you

Because we didn't get Stannis's, you know, plotline to finish out this book.

know, plotline to finish out this book. We don't know what to take away from

We don't know what to take away from this letter because the last time we see

this letter because the last time we see Stannis seems like he's doing a bit

Stannis seems like he's doing a bit better, right? The banker gets there, we

better, right? The banker gets there, we have this revelation about the car

have this revelation about the car Starks,

Starks, but what truly is going on, right? And

but what truly is going on, right? And especially when you think about the

especially when you think about the wording where it says Stannis has been

wording where it says Stannis has been defeated in seven days of battle. Why

defeated in seven days of battle. Why would it take seven days of battle for

would it take seven days of battle for them to beat Stannis who at this point

them to beat Stannis who at this point seems to be pretty broken down right

seems to be pretty broken down right now? I get it. They are camped three

now? I get it. They are camped three days away from Winterfell. So maybe you

days away from Winterfell. So maybe you think three days of journeying from the

think three days of journeying from the Frey Manderly forces, a day of battle,

Frey Manderly forces, a day of battle, and three days back. But that really

and three days back. But that really wouldn't be seven days of battle. So it

wouldn't be seven days of battle. So it is interesting that the context of which

is interesting that the context of which this is written. Also, it's written that

this is written. Also, it's written that they want the hostages back. So people

they want the hostages back. So people like Mel, people like Shireen, Ciss, he

like Mel, people like Shireen, Ciss, he wants Theon and Jane Pool back or he

wants Theon and Jane Pool back or he says Arya. And so there's a lot in here

says Arya. And so there's a lot in here to kind of digest and also talk about

to kind of digest and also talk about Mansa's situation because it just

Mansa's situation because it just doesn't seem to make sense as to why

doesn't seem to make sense as to why this is being stated to us when we just

this is being stated to us when we just saw Asha's chapter, you know, a couple

saw Asha's chapter, you know, a couple chapters before. And so this has sparked

chapters before. And so this has sparked a lot of the community debate. Why is

a lot of the community debate. Why is why would Ramsay send this to John or

why would Ramsay send this to John or why would man send this to John or why

why would man send this to John or why would who why was this letter sent?

would who why was this letter sent? And so I love that introduction at the

And so I love that introduction at the very end of the book because it sparks

very end of the book because it sparks your thought process of what that

your thought process of what that actually truly means. And either way,

actually truly means. And either way, either way, whatever the motivation was,

either way, whatever the motivation was, whatever whoever wrote it, it gets Jon

whatever whoever wrote it, it gets Jon to take the bait. Obviously, it's

to take the bait. Obviously, it's basically boiling over this idea that

basically boiling over this idea that Jon has been fighting his whole time as

Jon has been fighting his whole time as a Nights Watchman, his vows, and being a

a Nights Watchman, his vows, and being a Stark. And because of the wording, he

Stark. And because of the wording, he decides to abandon the hardhome journey.

decides to abandon the hardhome journey. And this is what I think is even more

And this is what I think is even more just crazy. So this group is supposedly

just crazy. So this group is supposedly going to be led by mainly Knights

going to be led by mainly Knights Watchmen, not the actual wildlings. So

Watchmen, not the actual wildlings. So why is Tormund being named the person in

why is Tormund being named the person in charge of this venture when you know the

charge of this venture when you know the Knights Watchmen do not like the

Knights Watchmen do not like the Wildlings?

Wildlings? It just seems like a very bad plan. And

It just seems like a very bad plan. And yes, you might be thinking, well,

yes, you might be thinking, well, Tormund knows, you know, all about hard

Tormund knows, you know, all about hard home, how to get there, whatever.

home, how to get there, whatever. Making him in charge is something, you

Making him in charge is something, you know, the Knights Watchmen are not going

know, the Knights Watchmen are not going to like, and it's going to cause issues.

to like, and it's going to cause issues. So, this makes no sense to me. It's just

So, this makes no sense to me. It's just another blunder of a decision that Jon

another blunder of a decision that Jon makes very close to his death. But you

makes very close to his death. But you might be thinking, okay, well, what's

might be thinking, okay, well, what's Jon going to do then if he's not going

Jon going to do then if he's not going to lead the Nights Watchmen to Hardome?

to lead the Nights Watchmen to Hardome? Well, he's going to lead whoever wants

Well, he's going to lead whoever wants to come with him to Winterfell.

to come with him to Winterfell. And this decision goes really well with

And this decision goes really well with the Wildlings. One, because a they're

the Wildlings. One, because a they're threatening the Wildlings. The Boltons

threatening the Wildlings. The Boltons don't like the Wildlings. They're going

don't like the Wildlings. They're going to push him out, try to kill them all.

to push him out, try to kill them all. Also, you have Mance's, you know,

Also, you have Mance's, you know, whereabouts and being alive. So, of

whereabouts and being alive. So, of course, the Wildlings are going to

course, the Wildlings are going to support him. Also, Jon has done

support him. Also, Jon has done everything he can for the Wildlings, and

everything he can for the Wildlings, and so they're kind of, you know, respecting

so they're kind of, you know, respecting him a bit there. But this is the final

him a bit there. But this is the final nail, right? Everything I've talked

nail, right? Everything I've talked about throughout this entire series has

about throughout this entire series has been about Jon pushing people away, not

been about Jon pushing people away, not being able to explain his situation, all

being able to explain his situation, all those things. And you see this here

those things. And you see this here where Bowen, Marsh, and Yarwick leave

where Bowen, Marsh, and Yarwick leave this little meeting. And Jon doesn't

this little meeting. And Jon doesn't seem to care, right? John's like, "Well,

seem to care, right? John's like, "Well, at least, you know, the other nights

at least, you know, the other nights watchmen don't have to break their vows,

watchmen don't have to break their vows, all those things, but he's not

all those things, but he's not understanding inwardly how this looks on

understanding inwardly how this looks on him. He is the Lord Commander and he is

him. He is the Lord Commander and he is breaking his vows."

breaking his vows." If you're somebody else, if you're a

If you're somebody else, if you're a common, you know, person, you know,

common, you know, person, you know, you're not that high up in the nights

you're not that high up in the nights watching or seeing this, you're going,

watching or seeing this, you're going, "Well, if he can break his vows, why

"Well, if he can break his vows, why shouldn't I be able to break my vows,

shouldn't I be able to break my vows, you know, leading by example and John's

you know, leading by example and John's not doing a great job of that. He's

not doing a great job of that. He's letting his feelings and things like

letting his feelings and things like that get in the way." And that leads Jon

that get in the way." And that leads Jon to go tell Cis about the news because

to go tell Cis about the news because obviously she needs to know her husband

obviously she needs to know her husband is allegedly died. Their cause is

is allegedly died. Their cause is completely gone and Ramsay is

completely gone and Ramsay is threatening them.

threatening them. But on the way, he sees one one smash

But on the way, he sees one one smash Sir Patrick's body against a tower wall.

Sir Patrick's body against a tower wall. And as he goes to calm him, he is

And as he goes to calm him, he is attacked and betrayed by his brothers.

attacked and betrayed by his brothers. With tears in their eyes, they stab him,

With tears in their eyes, they stab him, saying, "For the watch as Jon as Jon

saying, "For the watch as Jon as Jon bleeds out slash dies." Some people also

bleeds out slash dies." Some people also believe that maybe he's just still alive

believe that maybe he's just still alive and that maybe he can be healed at this

and that maybe he can be healed at this point. I don't think so. I think he is

point. I don't think so. I think he is dead. I think he is his essence is going

dead. I think he is his essence is going into ghost at this point. But this is a

into ghost at this point. But this is a crazy cliffhanger, right? John's alleged

crazy cliffhanger, right? John's alleged death the very end of the book going

death the very end of the book going into Winds of Winter, but it feels like

into Winds of Winter, but it feels like the natural conclusion. Where I've

the natural conclusion. Where I've talked about a lot of plot lines don't

talked about a lot of plot lines don't naturally conclude in this book, Jon's

naturally conclude in this book, Jon's does. J's death being the ending of the

does. J's death being the ending of the north plot line makes a lot of sense.

north plot line makes a lot of sense. And so I think George did a really

And so I think George did a really fantastic job with Jon in this book

fantastic job with Jon in this book specifically. He's probably, you know,

specifically. He's probably, you know, up there as one of the best POVs. I say

up there as one of the best POVs. I say Theon's the cemented number one, but

Theon's the cemented number one, but he's definitely in like that top three

he's definitely in like that top three area. And I I would say this is John's

area. And I I would say this is John's second book. I could definitely see you

second book. I could definitely see you saying this is his best. I I think for

saying this is his best. I I think for me it's kind of a toss up between book

me it's kind of a toss up between book three and book five. Whichever you

three and book five. Whichever you prefer. If you like the big moments of

prefer. If you like the big moments of of book three and Jon's exploration

of book three and Jon's exploration with, you know, the Wildlings and what

with, you know, the Wildlings and what they're about and the attack on the

they're about and the attack on the wall, you're going to prefer book three.

wall, you're going to prefer book three. But if you prefer Jon, you know, as Lord

But if you prefer Jon, you know, as Lord Commander, having to make tough

Commander, having to make tough decisions and his, you know, ability to

decisions and his, you know, ability to try and integrate the Wildlings into

try and integrate the Wildlings into their culture and all that stuff, you'll

their culture and all that stuff, you'll like this book more. But personally, I

like this book more. But personally, I think a great plot line for Jon. And of

think a great plot line for Jon. And of all the plot lines, I think it ends

all the plot lines, I think it ends pretty perfectly. So, getting to chapter

pretty perfectly. So, getting to chapter 71, which is our final Barristen chapter

71, which is our final Barristen chapter of the book, it's all about kind of

of the book, it's all about kind of dealing with the fallout of what has

dealing with the fallout of what has just occurred in the last two marine

just occurred in the last two marine chapters. while also setting up the big

chapters. while also setting up the big battle. And unfortunately, you know,

battle. And unfortunately, you know, like I just got done talking about with

like I just got done talking about with Jon, where Jon's ends perfectly, Barry

Jon, where Jon's ends perfectly, Barry and the Marine plot does not. The

and the Marine plot does not. The natural spot where this seemed that it

natural spot where this seemed that it should end should have been this battle

should end should have been this battle of fire or battle of marine, but that

of fire or battle of marine, but that doesn't occur in this chapter. Now, this

doesn't occur in this chapter. Now, this is a good chapter. I don't want to take

is a good chapter. I don't want to take away from that, but it doesn't seem like

away from that, but it doesn't seem like a natural chapter to end this story on.

a natural chapter to end this story on. as the thing that ends this story. I'll

as the thing that ends this story. I'll kind of go from the, you know, the back

kind of go from the, you know, the back of this chapter to the front. But the

of this chapter to the front. But the thing that ends this chapter is

thing that ends this chapter is basically Barrison deciding that we're

basically Barrison deciding that we're going to battle the slavers as the green

going to battle the slavers as the green graces come back from negotiating with

graces come back from negotiating with them and they declare that they want

them and they declare that they want both the dragons killed to even have any

both the dragons killed to even have any type of peace. Obviously, Barrison's not

type of peace. Obviously, Barrison's not going to do that. And so, we then see as

going to do that. And so, we then see as the trebuchets launch corpses into the

the trebuchets launch corpses into the city, hoping to more than likely spread

city, hoping to more than likely spread the plague and as a kind of a fear

the plague and as a kind of a fear factor. And so that all sounds good and

factor. And so that all sounds good and well, right? That's a great place to end

well, right? That's a great place to end a chapter, but that doesn't feel like a

a chapter, but that doesn't feel like a great place to end a plotline for an

great place to end a plotline for an entire book. It feels like there's

entire book. It feels like there's something that's not resolved there that

something that's not resolved there that we should have seen some conflict

we should have seen some conflict between the slavers and the free men at

between the slavers and the free men at some point and it just got pushed to

some point and it just got pushed to Winds of Winter, unfortunately. But we

Winds of Winter, unfortunately. But we see that Quentyn has died after 3 days

see that Quentyn has died after 3 days from the incident in his chapters.

from the incident in his chapters. Barristan prompts that he will hopefully

Barristan prompts that he will hopefully be sent back to the Dornish and he is

be sent back to the Dornish and he is prompted by Scahas to start the council

prompted by Scahas to start the council where they discuss a lot of different

where they discuss a lot of different issues. The sons of the harpy have not

issues. The sons of the harpy have not reacted well to his DAR being put in

reacted well to his DAR being put in prison so they've started their killings

prison so they've started their killings once again. Again, this would seem to

once again. Again, this would seem to indicate Hisdar has some connection to

indicate Hisdar has some connection to them. We also see there have been a

them. We also see there have been a protest for Hisdar to be released as

protest for Hisdar to be released as well. The captives that the Yunish have

well. The captives that the Yunish have that's, you know, how do they fix that

that's, you know, how do they fix that issue? Do they still have some of

issue? Do they still have some of Daenerys's captives? Tactics again of

Daenerys's captives? Tactics again of the coming battle is also discussed.

the coming battle is also discussed. What are they going to do? And they

What are they going to do? And they basically come to the idea that they

basically come to the idea that they need to take out the slavers. If they do

need to take out the slavers. If they do that, then the other slave and the

that, then the other slave and the other, you know, sell sword companies

other, you know, sell sword companies will fall back in line. But yeah, so

will fall back in line. But yeah, so it's really just a kind of a setup

it's really just a kind of a setup chapter mixed with also having a bit of

chapter mixed with also having a bit of a payoff to like the battle is going to

a payoff to like the battle is going to start, but it doesn't start in this

start, but it doesn't start in this book. So I would say a kind of a

book. So I would say a kind of a disappointing finish for Barristen in

disappointing finish for Barristen in this book, but albeit not a bad chapter

this book, but albeit not a bad chapter whatsoever.

whatsoever. So chapter 72 in the last main POV

So chapter 72 in the last main POV chapter before we get to the epilogue is

chapter before we get to the epilogue is Daenerys 10. And Daenerys 10 to me is a

Daenerys 10. And Daenerys 10 to me is a chapter that I almost go back and forth

chapter that I almost go back and forth on because in terms of it concluding all

on because in terms of it concluding all of the main POV stories, it's kind of a

of the main POV stories, it's kind of a weird one because it's a chapter that

weird one because it's a chapter that just doesn't have like a really big high

just doesn't have like a really big high moment to it to end out the series. You

moment to it to end out the series. You know, if you think about a game of

know, if you think about a game of thrones, right, some of the ending

thrones, right, some of the ending chapters that you have there where, you

chapters that you have there where, you know, you have Daenerys awakening the

know, you have Daenerys awakening the dragons, Rob becoming king of the north,

dragons, Rob becoming king of the north, Jon picking side, like he's going to

Jon picking side, like he's going to stay with the Night's Watch, you know,

stay with the Night's Watch, you know, Tyrion being named Hand of the King. You

Tyrion being named Hand of the King. You don't really have that here, right? It's

don't really have that here, right? It's just showing us Daenerys what happened

just showing us Daenerys what happened after Meereen. She's landed kind of in

after Meereen. She's landed kind of in the do in the Dothraki sea on this

the do in the Dothraki sea on this random like rock face more or less

random like rock face more or less that's basically become Drogon's home

that's basically become Drogon's home which Daenerys thematically names

which Daenerys thematically names Dragonstone which is I think is pretty

Dragonstone which is I think is pretty cool but we don't really see much right

cool but we don't really see much right it's kind of Daenerys just wandering

it's kind of Daenerys just wandering around the Dothraki Sea hoping she's

around the Dothraki Sea hoping she's going south to marine

going south to marine it's not anything crazy I mean the the

it's not anything crazy I mean the the good stuff of this chapter which I think

good stuff of this chapter which I think is good is we get a little bit more into

is good is we get a little bit more into the connection between the dragon in the

the connection between the dragon in the rider. Even though Daenerys has been

rider. Even though Daenerys has been able to ride Drogon, that doesn't mean

able to ride Drogon, that doesn't mean Drogon obeys her. Drogon is not willing

Drogon obeys her. Drogon is not willing to fly her back to Meereine and always

to fly her back to Meereine and always comes back to this little it feels like

comes back to this little it feels like an island within the Dothraki Sea. And

an island within the Dothraki Sea. And so you see a little bit of that

so you see a little bit of that connection which is really fascinating.

connection which is really fascinating. I I think her hallucinations in terms of

I I think her hallucinations in terms of when she sees Viseris and Jorah and

when she sees Viseris and Jorah and Quaith, it all seems to have this theme

Quaith, it all seems to have this theme of remembering who you are, which has

of remembering who you are, which has been a very present theme of this book

been a very present theme of this book specifically. And so, in that aspects of

specifically. And so, in that aspects of it, I really like it because it ties

it, I really like it because it ties into Daenerys's past and who she needs

into Daenerys's past and who she needs to become really well. But at the same

to become really well. But at the same time, a lot of this chapter is Daenerys

time, a lot of this chapter is Daenerys is wandering around starving,

is wandering around starving, dehydrated, just walking around kind of

dehydrated, just walking around kind of aimlessly,

aimlessly, getting sick, more or less. It just

getting sick, more or less. It just feels like a very weird chapter to end

feels like a very weird chapter to end on for Daenerys. I think the natural

on for Daenerys. I think the natural ending for Daenerys felt more normal

ending for Daenerys felt more normal with Daenerys 9,

with Daenerys 9, but I don't hate this chapter either.

but I don't hate this chapter either. Like, it's not a bad chapter. It's just

Like, it's not a bad chapter. It's just a kind of a casual Daenerys chapter.

a kind of a casual Daenerys chapter. Once again, it's just kind of in the

Once again, it's just kind of in the middle, right? It's just, you know, it's

middle, right? It's just, you know, it's there. And kind of how I felt about

there. And kind of how I felt about Daenerys the entire book. I think she

Daenerys the entire book. I think she has good elements to some of her

has good elements to some of her chapters and then bad elements to some

chapters and then bad elements to some of her chapters. It just kind of swings

of her chapters. It just kind of swings back and forth depending on where you

back and forth depending on where you are in her chapter. And so, it feels

are in her chapter. And so, it feels almost like a natural point of like this

almost like a natural point of like this is basically what Daenerys has been in

is basically what Daenerys has been in this book. But I do find it weird

this book. But I do find it weird because it almost feels like like

because it almost feels like like Daenerys 10 almost feels like it should

Daenerys 10 almost feels like it should have been Daenerys one of wins of winter

have been Daenerys one of wins of winter because it kind of is a good catch-up of

because it kind of is a good catch-up of everything that's happened because you

everything that's happened because you haven't been with Daenerys for a while

haven't been with Daenerys for a while after Daenerys 9 to Daenerys 10. It's

after Daenerys 9 to Daenerys 10. It's quite a bit of a gap.

quite a bit of a gap. But I don't know. But at the same time,

But I don't know. But at the same time, I also understand why George wanted to

I also understand why George wanted to have the end of this book show us where

have the end of this book show us where she's going to go in the next book with

she's going to go in the next book with the Dothraki. So, I don't know. I'm kind

the Dothraki. So, I don't know. I'm kind of back and forth on the placement of

of back and forth on the placement of this chapter. I almost feel like

this chapter. I almost feel like Daenerys 10, if it was going to be a

Daenerys 10, if it was going to be a chapter, should have been pushed back a

chapter, should have been pushed back a bit. I think personally John 13 should

bit. I think personally John 13 should have been this chapter. I think it

have been this chapter. I think it should have been placed right before the

should have been placed right before the epilogue,

epilogue, but who knows? Maybe you put Daenerys

but who knows? Maybe you put Daenerys and John's spot and then you separate.

and John's spot and then you separate. So you have one separating Barrison and

So you have one separating Barrison and Quentyn.

Quentyn. I don't know. Let me know what you guys

I don't know. Let me know what you guys think about the placement of Daenerys 10

think about the placement of Daenerys 10 at the very end besides the epilogue.

at the very end besides the epilogue. But yeah, so let's move on to the last

But yeah, so let's move on to the last chapter of A Dance Dragons, chapter 73.

chapter of A Dance Dragons, chapter 73. And in my opinion, this is the perfect

And in my opinion, this is the perfect chapter to end on. I have it ranked

chapter to end on. I have it ranked again within my top 10. It's number

again within my top 10. It's number nine. I really loved being inside Kevin

nine. I really loved being inside Kevin Lannister's head. we get to see a small

Lannister's head. we get to see a small council meeting that feels like some of

council meeting that feels like some of the older council meetings with

the older council meetings with characters like, you know, for instance,

characters like, you know, for instance, Ned and Littlefinger and Varys. It felt

Ned and Littlefinger and Varys. It felt a lot like that. It's a lot of an info

a lot like that. It's a lot of an info dump almost of what's going on in the

dump almost of what's going on in the world and how Kevin Lannister and the

world and how Kevin Lannister and the Lannister regime is going to react

Lannister regime is going to react against those. A heavy part of the first

against those. A heavy part of the first half of this chapter focuses on the

half of this chapter focuses on the threat of Young Griffith and the Golden

threat of Young Griffith and the Golden Company. And Kevin Lannister is kind of

Company. And Kevin Lannister is kind of in a weird position because his standing

in a weird position because his standing army, like his power is not with him.

army, like his power is not with him. It's actually in the Riverlands with

It's actually in the Riverlands with Jaime and you also have Jaime who's

Jaime and you also have Jaime who's disappeared. So Lannisters very much

disappeared. So Lannisters very much have to rely on the Tyrells and have to

have to rely on the Tyrells and have to basically allow them to gain more power.

basically allow them to gain more power. They can't really stop it. And so Kevin

They can't really stop it. And so Kevin Lannister realizes that, but he also is

Lannister realizes that, but he also is using their armies. He's using the

using their armies. He's using the Tyrell army to go deal with the Golden

Tyrell army to go deal with the Golden Company at Storm's End. He's using the

Company at Storm's End. He's using the Red Wine Fleet to go deal with Euron in

Red Wine Fleet to go deal with Euron in the west. So, it's kind of showing where

the west. So, it's kind of showing where all the pieces are before we head into

all the pieces are before we head into Winds of Winter, and it really works

Winds of Winter, and it really works well because you have us refreshing.

well because you have us refreshing. It's almost a summary of a lot of the

It's almost a summary of a lot of the main plots. You also mentioned Daenerys

main plots. You also mentioned Daenerys in this, like they don't want Daenerys

in this, like they don't want Daenerys to link up with young griffs. They need

to link up with young griffs. They need to deal with this swiftly. I really do

to deal with this swiftly. I really do enjoy a lot of what we get at the small

enjoy a lot of what we get at the small council meeting and how you even see

council meeting and how you even see Kevin who kind of sympathizes with

Kevin who kind of sympathizes with Cersei a bit because he's becoming

Cersei a bit because he's becoming incredibly annoyed and frustrated with

incredibly annoyed and frustrated with the Tyrells, but he knows, you know, he

the Tyrells, but he knows, you know, he needs them. So, I think that part of the

needs them. So, I think that part of the chapter is fantastic. I always enjoy the

chapter is fantastic. I always enjoy the small council meetings and especially

small council meetings and especially through Kevin's eyes who's always always

through Kevin's eyes who's always always who's always been overlooked as a

who's always been overlooked as a character being in Tywin's shadow. I

character being in Tywin's shadow. I thought this was a perfect character to

thought this was a perfect character to end it on. So, we then transition to the

end it on. So, we then transition to the next phase of this chapter, which is the

next phase of this chapter, which is the dinner sequence with Cersei. And this

dinner sequence with Cersei. And this also is really interesting because we

also is really interesting because we don't know how Cersei is feeling after

don't know how Cersei is feeling after the walk of atonement. And so it's great

the walk of atonement. And so it's great because it puts us into the eyes of of

because it puts us into the eyes of of Kevin Lannister, the head of Kevin

Kevin Lannister, the head of Kevin Lannister, where Cersei seems to be a

Lannister, where Cersei seems to be a tamed lion. She seems to have lost all

tamed lion. She seems to have lost all that pride and and I mean arrogancy that

that pride and and I mean arrogancy that she used to have. She seems more docile.

she used to have. She seems more docile. And so when you look at that, you're

And so when you look at that, you're thinking and in my head I'm thinking I'm

thinking and in my head I'm thinking I'm reading this seems all to be an act. Or

reading this seems all to be an act. Or is this truly Cersei has changed? And

is this truly Cersei has changed? And that's what Kevin Lannister has to play

that's what Kevin Lannister has to play through his head. And Kevin Lannister,

through his head. And Kevin Lannister, you know, he even thinks about things

you know, he even thinks about things that happened in the past, right? How

that happened in the past, right? How Cersei was supposed to be, you know,

Cersei was supposed to be, you know, married to Rhaegar, but that never went

married to Rhaegar, but that never went through. But what could have happened

through. But what could have happened differently that occurred even for

differently that occurred even for Cersei herself.

Cersei herself. It's very interesting to see the way

It's very interesting to see the way Kevin looks at those events because you

Kevin looks at those events because you also think about a Storm of Swords where

also think about a Storm of Swords where Kevin was the person that interacted

Kevin was the person that interacted with Tyrion when he was the one in the

with Tyrion when he was the one in the cells and how he kind of goes against

cells and how he kind of goes against Tyrion. Now, I don't blame him for that.

Tyrion. Now, I don't blame him for that. all the evidence or evidence that he was

all the evidence or evidence that he was seeing all went against him and Tyrion

seeing all went against him and Tyrion didn't really have a great defense. But

didn't really have a great defense. But it kind of interesting the way you think

it kind of interesting the way you think about how Kevin views Cersei versus

about how Kevin views Cersei versus someone like Tyrion. And so this diner

someone like Tyrion. And so this diner goes about as well as it can go and all

goes about as well as it can go and all of a sudden Pycel apparently calls for

of a sudden Pycel apparently calls for Kevin Lannister. This is very suspicious

Kevin Lannister. This is very suspicious right off the bat just based upon the

right off the bat just based upon the fact that the two were just speaking

fact that the two were just speaking only a couple pages, you know, ago.

only a couple pages, you know, ago. You're not going to see it coming, of

You're not going to see it coming, of course. But the thing is, it's like, hm,

course. But the thing is, it's like, hm, nice little interesting tidbit on a

nice little interesting tidbit on a reread to think about like, hm, that

reread to think about like, hm, that shouldn't really make much sense. You

shouldn't really make much sense. You guys were just with each other. And

guys were just with each other. And another thing to kind of foreshadow the

another thing to kind of foreshadow the events to come and the winds of winter

events to come and the winds of winter is that it seems to be heavily snowing

is that it seems to be heavily snowing at King's Landing. Winter has finally

at King's Landing. Winter has finally come for the south, hence the name for

come for the south, hence the name for the next book, The Winds of Winter. But

the next book, The Winds of Winter. But as Kevin Lannister gets to the rook to

as Kevin Lannister gets to the rook to the rookery, there's no one that seems

the rookery, there's no one that seems to be here. And as Kevin Lannister seems

to be here. And as Kevin Lannister seems to just almost leave, he is hit by a

to just almost leave, he is hit by a crossbow bolt. And this is the worst way

crossbow bolt. And this is the worst way that Kevin Lannister could possibly die

that Kevin Lannister could possibly die in his head. Going out the same way that

in his head. Going out the same way that his brother, who is always in the shadow

his brother, who is always in the shadow of went out as well. But it comes as

of went out as well. But it comes as this massive reveal because Varys has

this massive reveal because Varys has been nowhere to be found the entire

been nowhere to be found the entire book. And Kevin hearing this monologue

book. And Kevin hearing this monologue by Varys is one of the most interesting

by Varys is one of the most interesting and awesome ways to foreshadow the next

and awesome ways to foreshadow the next book as he gives his speech about young

book as he gives his speech about young Griff and even commends Kevin for doing

Griff and even commends Kevin for doing a good job almost taunting him on his

a good job almost taunting him on his deathbed. But all this comes to a head

deathbed. But all this comes to a head as you know Kevin is questioning how

as you know Kevin is questioning how young Griff or Aegon could truly be him.

young Griff or Aegon could truly be him. but he is cut off as a little birds

but he is cut off as a little birds arrive to finish the job of Kevin

arrive to finish the job of Kevin Lannister and that ends the book. Now, I

Lannister and that ends the book. Now, I think this is the perfect ending for

think this is the perfect ending for Dance of the Dragons. And I want to say

Dance of the Dragons. And I want to say towards the end of this, you know, as

towards the end of this, you know, as I'm kind of winding down in this video,

I'm kind of winding down in this video, we'll talk about the conclusion and

we'll talk about the conclusion and we'll talk about the POV rankings, all

we'll talk about the POV rankings, all that stuff.

that stuff. I do want to say I think the reason that

I do want to say I think the reason that Dance Dragons is I think regarded more

Dance Dragons is I think regarded more fondly by the casual fan base than say

fondly by the casual fan base than say something you know like A Feast for

something you know like A Feast for Crows is based upon the ending. Again,

Crows is based upon the ending. Again, remember within the last 20 chapters, 25

remember within the last 20 chapters, 25 chapters we've done, how many of those

chapters we've done, how many of those have actually been in my top 10? I even

have actually been in my top 10? I even gave you guys the number. I said seven

gave you guys the number. I said seven earlier on in the video. This book ends

earlier on in the video. This book ends on a very, very high note. It might not

on a very, very high note. It might not be a complete high note because some of

be a complete high note because some of the plot lines don't naturally conclude

the plot lines don't naturally conclude to where they should be, but a lot of

to where they should be, but a lot of them do.

them do. It end it ends on this such an

It end it ends on this such an intriguing note where you just want to

intriguing note where you just want to keep reading more. You want to see what

keep reading more. You want to see what you going to do. You want to see how the

you going to do. You want to see how the Jon Snow plot line's going to go now

Jon Snow plot line's going to go now that he's dead. You want to see the

that he's dead. You want to see the battle of ice. You want to see the

battle of ice. You want to see the battle of fire. So, it ends on this note

battle of fire. So, it ends on this note that makes you want to keep reading.

that makes you want to keep reading. It's like, for instance, think about any

It's like, for instance, think about any type of addicting game, right? where you

type of addicting game, right? where you you get to this level and you say you

you get to this level and you say you want to you're going to stop, but you

want to you're going to stop, but you just want to keep going because you want

just want to keep going because you want to know what happens. That's the way A

to know what happens. That's the way A Dance of Dragons ends. And so I want to

Dance of Dragons ends. And so I want to compare this because I think the show is

compare this because I think the show is a great comparison to this is that if

a great comparison to this is that if you think about A Dance of Dragons and A

you think about A Dance of Dragons and A Feast for Crows, I personally think A

Feast for Crows, I personally think A Feast for Crows is better than A Dance

Feast for Crows is better than A Dance Dragons because I think that A Feast for

Dragons because I think that A Feast for Crows is more is more consistently good

Crows is more is more consistently good in terms of chapter to chapter where A

in terms of chapter to chapter where A Dance Dragons is a roller coaster. You

Dance Dragons is a roller coaster. You have some chapters that are all the way

have some chapters that are all the way up here. They're great chapters. staples

up here. They're great chapters. staples of the entire series. You have a lot of

of the entire series. You have a lot of chapters down here where, you know,

chapters down here where, you know, they're just not very good. Like, I

they're just not very good. Like, I would say there's a number of chapters

would say there's a number of chapters in this book that are the worst of the

in this book that are the worst of the series. Like, if I was going to do a top

series. Like, if I was going to do a top 10 worst chapters of the series, I think

10 worst chapters of the series, I think almost half of them would be chapters

almost half of them would be chapters from this book.

from this book. And so it's almost like season five and

And so it's almost like season five and season six where I think season six ends

season six where I think season six ends on such a high note like a dance of

on such a high note like a dance of dragons does that people almost forget

dragons does that people almost forget some of the other things that were in

some of the other things that were in there like Tyrion and like Quentyn and

there like Tyrion and like Quentyn and some of the other times where the book's

some of the other times where the book's just not as good. That's not to say that

just not as good. That's not to say that season five and season 6 are even close

season five and season 6 are even close to the quality of A Dance Dragons Fast

to the quality of A Dance Dragons Fast for Crows, but it's kind of how I'm

for Crows, but it's kind of how I'm going to represent it because I think

going to represent it because I think they're they're kind of similar in a

they're they're kind of similar in a way. Like I think season 5 in terms of

way. Like I think season 5 in terms of quality from episode to episode is

quality from episode to episode is better than season 6, but yet season 6

better than season 6, but yet season 6 ends on a much higher note than season 5

ends on a much higher note than season 5 does. So most people will remember and

does. So most people will remember and think about season 6 being better than

think about season 6 being better than season 5 because it just has more

season 5 because it just has more standout moments. You remember more

standout moments. You remember more things from Dance than you're going to

things from Dance than you're going to with Feast. I think this is especially

with Feast. I think this is especially true with casual uh readers, people that

true with casual uh readers, people that have only read the books once or twice,

have only read the books once or twice, maybe. Easter Crows is the one that

maybe. Easter Crows is the one that usually people don't like as much on

usually people don't like as much on their first read or two and then as you

their first read or two and then as you reread it, I think you appreciate it

reread it, I think you appreciate it much more. But that is kind of the end

much more. But that is kind of the end of my Dance Dragons, at least my chapter

of my Dance Dragons, at least my chapter by chapter breakdown. I want to rank

by chapter breakdown. I want to rank every single POV within Adance Dragons.

every single POV within Adance Dragons. There are a lot of them and I want to

There are a lot of them and I want to kind of give my thoughts on the book as

kind of give my thoughts on the book as well just in a POV ranking within

well just in a POV ranking within Adanced Dragons. So I do have some

Adanced Dragons. So I do have some things that I use to rank these POVs.

things that I use to rank these POVs. Now, the first thing is consistency.

Now, the first thing is consistency. Just based upon chapter to chapter, how

Just based upon chapter to chapter, how good is your POV overall, right? Do you

good is your POV overall, right? Do you have some really good chapters, some

have some really good chapters, some really bad chapters, some mid chapters?

really bad chapters, some mid chapters? On average, when I open up, when I go to

On average, when I open up, when I go to your chapter, right? So, say Daenerys

your chapter, right? So, say Daenerys for instance, what should I be

for instance, what should I be expecting, right? Based upon this book,

expecting, right? Based upon this book, am I expecting a pretty mid chapter? Am

am I expecting a pretty mid chapter? Am I expecting a pretty good chapter?

I expecting a pretty good chapter? Whatever. Another thing is, how

Whatever. Another thing is, how entertaining are they as a POV? like how

entertaining are they as a POV? like how entertaining is it to be in their head

entertaining is it to be in their head as a character? For instance, one of my

as a character? For instance, one of my favorites from A Feast for Crows was

favorites from A Feast for Crows was Jaime. It's really awesome to be in his

Jaime. It's really awesome to be in his head because he has some really

head because he has some really interesting uh moral dilemmas that he's

interesting uh moral dilemmas that he's trying to work towards in that book. And

trying to work towards in that book. And so that's a big part of it as well.

so that's a big part of it as well. There is some that's just okay, I have

There is some that's just okay, I have favorite characters, so that might

favorite characters, so that might influence how I look at them as a POV. I

influence how I look at them as a POV. I think how much a character forwards the

think how much a character forwards the plot is very important as well. and how

plot is very important as well. and how do they mix that with character

do they mix that with character development and world building as well.

development and world building as well. Something that George really struggles

Something that George really struggles with, I think, in the the last two books

with, I think, in the the last two books of the series is how does he expand the

of the series is how does he expand the world while also forwarding the plot and

world while also forwarding the plot and forwarding the POV character that we

forwarding the POV character that we have and the characters around them. I

have and the characters around them. I think that's something he struggled a

think that's something he struggled a lot more with in the last two books than

lot more with in the last two books than he did with the first three. I think the

he did with the first three. I think the reason is because in the first I think

reason is because in the first I think especially the first book the chapters

especially the first book the chapters were much smaller and so you had to be

were much smaller and so you had to be very direct with how you're telling the

very direct with how you're telling the story. You had to you know maybe cut out

story. You had to you know maybe cut out some of the world building because a lot

some of the world building because a lot of it was for character development and

of it was for character development and moving the plot forward. Dragons doesn't

moving the plot forward. Dragons doesn't do that nearly as well in my opinion. So

do that nearly as well in my opinion. So let's get into the list. So number 18, I

let's get into the list. So number 18, I think this is nobody's surprise is

think this is nobody's surprise is Quentyn. I did not enjoy reading Quentyn

Quentyn. I did not enjoy reading Quentyn in this book. Uh I I think you know of

in this book. Uh I I think you know of all the POVs in each of the books, there

all the POVs in each of the books, there are very few ones that I say I just

are very few ones that I say I just genuinely do not like and hate. Quentyn

genuinely do not like and hate. Quentyn is one of those. Quentyn serves no

is one of those. Quentyn serves no purpose in my opinion to the story

purpose in my opinion to the story outside of his last chapter. I think if

outside of his last chapter. I think if you erase Quentyn completely and and

you erase Quentyn completely and and have him just sprout up when he does

have him just sprout up when he does with in Daenerys's POV and then just

with in Daenerys's POV and then just have Quentyn maybe give the quick

have Quentyn maybe give the quick summary of what you know happened

summary of what you know happened basically off the book page that we

basically off the book page that we didn't see would have worked just as

didn't see would have worked just as well in my opinion. And so I get why

well in my opinion. And so I get why Quentyn's here because somebody has to

Quentyn's here because somebody has to release the dragons and you want this

release the dragons and you want this impactful death at the end of the book.

impactful death at the end of the book. Personally, I didn't enjoy I didn't

Personally, I didn't enjoy I didn't enjoy the character of Quentyn. I think

enjoy the character of Quentyn. I think he had way too many convenient

he had way too many convenient contrivances. It almost felt like his

contrivances. It almost felt like his whole journey with the wind blown just

whole journey with the wind blown just felt kind of odd to me. It felt like,

felt kind of odd to me. It felt like, oh, you know, that's convenient. We have

oh, you know, that's convenient. We have no way of getting to Daenerys and

no way of getting to Daenerys and instantly we find the Cell Sword

instantly we find the Cell Sword company. And you know, that and of of

company. And you know, that and of of itself is is fine, but it's when you

itself is is fine, but it's when you have a lot of those things where it's,

have a lot of those things where it's, oh, okay, uh, Quentyn needs to get to

oh, okay, uh, Quentyn needs to get to Marine to speak to Daenerys. Oh, well,

Marine to speak to Daenerys. Oh, well, the windb blown are now going to have a

the windb blown are now going to have a mission where they specifically give

mission where they specifically give Quentyn and a number of others to flip

Quentyn and a number of others to flip to go to Daenerys's side. It's just a

to go to Daenerys's side. It's just a lot of conveniences that if they're

lot of conveniences that if they're isolated, they can make sense. But when

isolated, they can make sense. But when you have so many of them happening just

you have so many of them happening just in Quentyn's plotline,

in Quentyn's plotline, it just doesn't feel that great. It

it just doesn't feel that great. It doesn't feel like a normal story. And

doesn't feel like a normal story. And Quentyn himself is a character that I

Quentyn himself is a character that I don't really enjoy that much. He doesn't

don't really enjoy that much. He doesn't have all that much of a personality or a

have all that much of a personality or a character. So by the time he dies, I

character. So by the time he dies, I don't really care all that much about

don't really care all that much about him. I'm kind of glad he's out of the

him. I'm kind of glad he's out of the story. So Quentin, you know, I know he

story. So Quentin, you know, I know he has four chapters, which is more than a

has four chapters, which is more than a lot of the characters on this list, or

lot of the characters on this list, or at least equal to a good amount of them,

at least equal to a good amount of them, but I just didn't enjoy reading him.

but I just didn't enjoy reading him. Number 17, I think, is a big surprise

Number 17, I think, is a big surprise just based on how I rank, you know,

just based on how I rank, you know, characters. I think for me, I personally

characters. I think for me, I personally value a character having a lot of POV

value a character having a lot of POV chapters because that means we're

chapters because that means we're getting a lot of substance from the

getting a lot of substance from the story through this character, right?

story through this character, right? They're a major focal point of the

They're a major focal point of the story. And unfortunately for Dance of

story. And unfortunately for Dance of Dragons, Tyrion, who has the second most

Dragons, Tyrion, who has the second most amount of chapters in this book at 12,

amount of chapters in this book at 12, he is just not very good in this book at

he is just not very good in this book at all. Uh he never really hits the heights

all. Uh he never really hits the heights of a lot of the other major POVs. his

of a lot of the other major POVs. his best chapter in my opinion comes when

best chapter in my opinion comes when he's with young Griff and the reveal of

he's with young Griff and the reveal of of Aegon. And outside of that, like like

of Aegon. And outside of that, like like after he leaves Young Griff and he goes,

after he leaves Young Griff and he goes, you know, you get into more like Tyrion

you know, you get into more like Tyrion 6, seven, and forwards, his plotline is

6, seven, and forwards, his plotline is just I dreaded reading his plotline.

just I dreaded reading his plotline. Part of why I think I, you know, paused

Part of why I think I, you know, paused when I did with this series is a lot of

when I did with this series is a lot of because you get a lot of Tyrion and a

because you get a lot of Tyrion and a lot of Quentyn and they're just not very

lot of Quentyn and they're just not very good at the beginning of the book. Um,

good at the beginning of the book. Um, well, Tyrion, Tyrion, I think, is is

well, Tyrion, Tyrion, I think, is is good until he gets to about Tyrion five

good until he gets to about Tyrion five or not Tyrion five. Tyrion six and then

or not Tyrion five. Tyrion six and then Tyrion 7. It's just a lot of things

Tyrion 7. It's just a lot of things where Tyrion in this book should have

where Tyrion in this book should have been cut down. He feels like a character

been cut down. He feels like a character that is just he's just traveling. I

that is just he's just traveling. I mean, a lot of chapters he's just

mean, a lot of chapters he's just traveling. Um, there isn't a whole lot

traveling. Um, there isn't a whole lot of characters around Tyrion that he can

of characters around Tyrion that he can use his wit. And so, I think this is one

use his wit. And so, I think this is one of the biggest falls from Grace because

of the biggest falls from Grace because Tyrion was so interesting in the last

Tyrion was so interesting in the last two books and Storm of Swords and Clash

two books and Storm of Swords and Clash of Kings that he was in. And this book,

of Kings that he was in. And this book, he just didn't really have many people

he just didn't really have many people around him make his POVs all that

around him make his POVs all that interesting. Um, Penny is a character

interesting. Um, Penny is a character that is kind of like Sansa in a way

that is kind of like Sansa in a way where she's very innocent to the world

where she's very innocent to the world and things like that and it doesn't

and things like that and it doesn't really play off with Tyrion all that

really play off with Tyrion all that well in my opinion. And then you also

well in my opinion. And then you also have him with Jorah and Jorah is just

have him with Jorah and Jorah is just kind of this brute that isn't all that

kind of this brute that isn't all that interesting. And so, especially the

interesting. And so, especially the second half of his arc, he just doesn't

second half of his arc, he just doesn't have a good supporting cast around him.

have a good supporting cast around him. And it really shows and hurts him as a

And it really shows and hurts him as a character. And you start to see the old

character. And you start to see the old version of Tyrion where he actually has

version of Tyrion where he actually has some characters around him to play off

some characters around him to play off of with Brown Ben Plum, especially like

of with Brown Ben Plum, especially like in the last two chapters he has. But you

in the last two chapters he has. But you know that period, you know, Tyrion 6,

know that period, you know, Tyrion 6, seven, eight, you know, 9 10 is a tough

seven, eight, you know, 9 10 is a tough part of the book. It's just a tough part

part of the book. It's just a tough part of the book. And Tyrion to me, you know,

of the book. And Tyrion to me, you know, he has some good chapters, but they're

he has some good chapters, but they're very few and far between at times. And

very few and far between at times. And so I put a lot of, you know, characters

so I put a lot of, you know, characters that have only one or two chapters above

that have only one or two chapters above him because at least their chapters they

him because at least their chapters they show up in are usually pretty good. So

show up in are usually pretty good. So yeah, I I'm not a big fan of Tyrion in

yeah, I I'm not a big fan of Tyrion in this book. I I think he he needed to be

this book. I I think he he needed to be cut down to maybe seven to eight

cut down to maybe seven to eight chapters and that would have helped us

chapters and that would have helped us get to more important things in this

get to more important things in this book like the battle of ice and fire

book like the battle of ice and fire which in my opinion would have also then

which in my opinion would have also then helped Tyrion as a character because he

helped Tyrion as a character because he also has in my opinion the weakest

also has in my opinion the weakest conclusion of all the main characters as

conclusion of all the main characters as his conclusion is just we're going to

his conclusion is just we're going to convince the second sons to to flip to

convince the second sons to to flip to Daenerys's side. It's like, hey, that

Daenerys's side. It's like, hey, that kind of seems obvious, right? Like, he

kind of seems obvious, right? Like, he just has a very weak conclusion because

just has a very weak conclusion because we don't get to see the battle of fire.

we don't get to see the battle of fire. Number 16. So, number 16 is Vamir. I

Number 16. So, number 16 is Vamir. I I've kind of said this in the past. Of

I've kind of said this in the past. Of all the prologus, Vamir is my least

all the prologus, Vamir is my least favorite. And I don't think, you know,

favorite. And I don't think, you know, the prologue's bad to this book by any

the prologue's bad to this book by any means, but to me, all the things I enjoy

means, but to me, all the things I enjoy about The World of A Song of West and

about The World of A Song of West and Fire are more of the nittygritty, the

Fire are more of the nittygritty, the more politicky real life type stuff, the

more politicky real life type stuff, the dark fantasy elements of the story. Um,

dark fantasy elements of the story. Um, the anti-war themes. I've been someone

the anti-war themes. I've been someone that always has never been a huge fan of

that always has never been a huge fan of like magic in fantasy. Um, you know, you

like magic in fantasy. Um, you know, you think about, for instance, Lord of the

think about, for instance, Lord of the Rings, or you think about the Dragon Age

Rings, or you think about the Dragon Age series, video game series by the way, or

series, video game series by the way, or Dn D. I'm never somebody that like leans

Dn D. I'm never somebody that like leans towards the magical. I like more of the

towards the magical. I like more of the the realistic um sense. And so, this

the realistic um sense. And so, this chapter just I don't think is for me,

chapter just I don't think is for me, uh, because it's very linked to only

uh, because it's very linked to only really two plot lines. It's really

really two plot lines. It's really linked heavily to Bran's plotline and

linked heavily to Bran's plotline and then somewhat to Jon's plotline because

then somewhat to Jon's plotline because it's the fallout of the Battle of the

it's the fallout of the Battle of the Wall. And you also have that warging

Wall. And you also have that warging ability that's probably going to come

ability that's probably going to come into effect with Jon going into ghost

into effect with Jon going into ghost and living through ghost for a while.

and living through ghost for a while. And so the chapter does have

And so the chapter does have implications and teaches us a bit more

implications and teaches us a bit more about how waring works and things like

about how waring works and things like that. But I don't find this chapter to

that. But I don't find this chapter to be as entertaining as others, especially

be as entertaining as others, especially ones that have only one chapter like

ones that have only one chapter like Kevin, Mel, Jaime, those other

Kevin, Mel, Jaime, those other counterparts. So Vamir, again, I think

counterparts. So Vamir, again, I think it just isn't for me personally. I know

it just isn't for me personally. I know a lot of people really like Vamir uh for

a lot of people really like Vamir uh for the first chapter of this book. I'm not

the first chapter of this book. I'm not the biggest fan. Number 15, I have Arya

the biggest fan. Number 15, I have Arya Hoda. Now, Arya Hoda, it's so weird

Hoda. Now, Arya Hoda, it's so weird because the content and the things that

because the content and the things that happen in his chapters are usually

happen in his chapters are usually really good and really paced really

really good and really paced really well. It's just the fact that Aryod is

well. It's just the fact that Aryod is not an entertaining POV. I don't like

not an entertaining POV. I don't like being in Arya's head. Um I I think he is

being in Arya's head. Um I I think he is harried by the fact that he always gets

harried by the fact that he always gets to be the POV look into with you know

to be the POV look into with you know Duran or Arian.

Duran or Arian. I find it kind of baffling in my opinion

I find it kind of baffling in my opinion that we didn't get this POV that Hoda

that we didn't get this POV that Hoda gets as Arian because if Aron had been

gets as Arian because if Aron had been the POV for this chapter specifically

the POV for this chapter specifically that Hoda has where it's kind of them

that Hoda has where it's kind of them laying out the foundations and work of

laying out the foundations and work of what they're going to do in Winds of

what they're going to do in Winds of Winter, you know, Aron going to check

Winter, you know, Aron going to check out this young Griff character, the Sand

out this young Griff character, the Sand Snakes going to King's Landing and also

Snakes going to King's Landing and also to find Darkstar. If all of that had

to find Darkstar. If all of that had happened through Arian's, you know, eyes

happened through Arian's, you know, eyes and her head, I think I'd have Arian

and her head, I think I'd have Arian much higher than this. But Aryota really

much higher than this. But Aryota really gets held down because he just isn't

gets held down because he just isn't that interesting of a POV unfortunately.

that interesting of a POV unfortunately. Even though I do like the chapter that

Even though I do like the chapter that he has. Number 14, I have Melisandre. So

he has. Number 14, I have Melisandre. So Melisandre is probably the biggest

Melisandre is probably the biggest surprise I would say of this book in

surprise I would say of this book in terms of POVs we got in it. And I really

terms of POVs we got in it. And I really do like her POV chapter because we get

do like her POV chapter because we get to see more about her as a character,

to see more about her as a character, right? How much power does she truly

right? How much power does she truly have? Has she been tricking people?

have? Has she been tricking people? what's what is she up to, right? And so

what's what is she up to, right? And so seeing all that through, you know, her

seeing all that through, you know, her eyes, her trying to figure out what

eyes, her trying to figure out what messages were Laura sending her and

messages were Laura sending her and trying to figure out what that means and

trying to figure out what that means and what she should tell people like Jon and

what she should tell people like Jon and others about what she's seeing is very

others about what she's seeing is very fascinating because it kind of brings up

fascinating because it kind of brings up these questions like if Lightbringer,

these questions like if Lightbringer, you know, isn't actually Lightbringer.

you know, isn't actually Lightbringer. Like if Stan's sword isn't actually

Like if Stan's sword isn't actually Lightbringer,

Lightbringer, why does Mel believe in him? because Mel

why does Mel believe in him? because Mel does believe that Stannis is Azor Ah

does believe that Stannis is Azor Ah high. Why does she believe those things?

high. Why does she believe those things? And so it adds up a bunch of interesting

And so it adds up a bunch of interesting questions, but also I think this chapter

questions, but also I think this chapter is here more because a when Jon dies, we

is here more because a when Jon dies, we need a POV here and Melisandre will

need a POV here and Melisandre will probably take up that mantle until Jon

probably take up that mantle until Jon kind of returns.

kind of returns. But, you know, you also wanted to give

But, you know, you also wanted to give kind of a look into Melisandre and give,

kind of a look into Melisandre and give, you know, her a bit more character work

you know, her a bit more character work before we then have her be a full-blown

before we then have her be a full-blown POV in the next book. I found Melisandre

POV in the next book. I found Melisandre to be extremely interesting.

to be extremely interesting. Unfortunately, we only get one chapter

Unfortunately, we only get one chapter with her. So, I did put her underneath

with her. So, I did put her underneath um two of the other characters that have

um two of the other characters that have one chapter each and I think they are

one chapter each and I think they are slightly better in my opinion. Well, I'd

slightly better in my opinion. Well, I'd say for one of them much better. But

say for one of them much better. But yeah, so that gets us to number 13. I

yeah, so that gets us to number 13. I have Jaime. Now, Jaime has one chapter

have Jaime. Now, Jaime has one chapter in this book as well. It is completely

in this book as well. It is completely focusing on wrapping up the Riverland

focusing on wrapping up the Riverland conflict that Jaime has started in his

conflict that Jaime has started in his Feast for Crows arc. It's him dealing

Feast for Crows arc. It's him dealing with the Blackwoods and the Brackens,

with the Blackwoods and the Brackens, which is fantastic. We get a ton of our

which is fantastic. We get a ton of our lore between the Blackwood and Bracken

lore between the Blackwood and Bracken conflict through this chapter with

conflict through this chapter with Jaime. I wish we had gotten more Jaime.

Jaime. I wish we had gotten more Jaime. Um, he is again the best POV of Feast

Um, he is again the best POV of Feast for Crows. And being back into his head

for Crows. And being back into his head is fantastic in this book. The only

is fantastic in this book. The only thing that holds him down is just that

thing that holds him down is just that he only has one chapter. I think his

he only has one chapter. I think his chapter I don't remember exactly where I

chapter I don't remember exactly where I ranked it, but I do remember ranking it

ranked it, but I do remember ranking it like within the top at least 30. Uh just

like within the top at least 30. Uh just looking at it right now, I have it

looking at it right now, I have it ranked as the 19th best chapter of the

ranked as the 19th best chapter of the book. So that's pretty good given

book. So that's pretty good given there's 73 chapters in this book. And

there's 73 chapters in this book. And this is a very topheavy uh book in terms

this is a very topheavy uh book in terms of really great chapters. So again,

of really great chapters. So again, great chapter by Jamie, but limited

great chapter by Jamie, but limited because he only has one chapter. Number

because he only has one chapter. Number 12, I have Victarion. Now, Victarion is

12, I have Victarion. Now, Victarion is a really fun POV to read. Um, a lot of

a really fun POV to read. Um, a lot of the reason that he's higher than some of

the reason that he's higher than some of these other characters with only one POV

these other characters with only one POV or whatnot, he's just fun to read.

or whatnot, he's just fun to read. You're never bored when you read a

You're never bored when you read a Victarion, you know, chapter. You don't

Victarion, you know, chapter. You don't know what he's going to do. He's kind of

know what he's going to do. He's kind of like this wildcard character because

like this wildcard character because he's, you know, this brutish type of

he's, you know, this brutish type of guy, but he's also kind of dumb. And,

guy, but he's also kind of dumb. And, you know, his and his plotline is kind

you know, his and his plotline is kind of fascinating in my opinion just based

of fascinating in my opinion just based upon, okay, what does Euron want from

upon, okay, what does Euron want from Victarion and Victarion trying to work

Victarion and Victarion trying to work out all those things while also not

out all those things while also not being the smartest guy in the world.

being the smartest guy in the world. He's just everybody's kind of favorite

He's just everybody's kind of favorite lovable like barbarian sea guy more or

lovable like barbarian sea guy more or less is what he is. And so that's just

less is what he is. And so that's just where he is. I don't think he's, you

where he is. I don't think he's, you know, a great POV. I know other people

know, a great POV. I know other people really love Victron as POV. You know, I

really love Victron as POV. You know, I think he's he's a fine POV. I'm never

think he's he's a fine POV. I'm never going to be upset turning to a Victarion

going to be upset turning to a Victarion POV chapter, but at the same time, I'm

POV chapter, but at the same time, I'm never going to be like that excited for

never going to be like that excited for a Victarium POV chapter either. So,

a Victarium POV chapter either. So, number 11. This is kind of the the last

number 11. This is kind of the the last of the one POV chapter characters, but I

of the one POV chapter characters, but I do have the epilogue in Kevin Lannister.

do have the epilogue in Kevin Lannister. Kevin is one of my favorite characters

Kevin is one of my favorite characters because of this chapter because we

because of this chapter because we finally get to see inside of this

finally get to see inside of this character, see what he's been about this

character, see what he's been about this whole time. He's a character that I

whole time. He's a character that I find, you know, to be interesting as

find, you know, to be interesting as he's been living in his brother's

he's been living in his brother's shadow, very similar to like the

shadow, very similar to like the character of Stannis with Robert and the

character of Stannis with Robert and the way he goes about trying to fix all the

way he goes about trying to fix all the issues that Cersei has done. He's doing

issues that Cersei has done. He's doing a really good job of it. and seeing how

a really good job of it. and seeing how he plays the Tyrells and all that and

he plays the Tyrells and all that and leading to his inevitable death and this

leading to his inevitable death and this tragic end to the story for a dance with

tragic end to the story for a dance with dragons. It's in my opinion the perfect

dragons. It's in my opinion the perfect conclusion. I think of all the books,

conclusion. I think of all the books, you know, it does have a really great

you know, it does have a really great finish. I would probably put it up there

finish. I would probably put it up there as my

as my maybe my second favorite ending only

maybe my second favorite ending only behind Game of Thrones with Daenerys's

behind Game of Thrones with Daenerys's last chapter. So again, I love Kevin. He

last chapter. So again, I love Kevin. He only held down because he has one

only held down because he has one chapter. That's it. He'd be much higher

chapter. That's it. He'd be much higher if he had maybe a couple more chapters,

if he had maybe a couple more chapters, but given that, I put him at number 11.

but given that, I put him at number 11. So, reaching into our top 10, I have

So, reaching into our top 10, I have some I have someone that will either

some I have someone that will either make you happy or sad. We'll see. I feel

make you happy or sad. We'll see. I feel like the community is very divided on

like the community is very divided on how it feels about Daenerys. And to me,

how it feels about Daenerys. And to me, I think she's not great, and I don't

I think she's not great, and I don't think she's horrible in this book. I

think she's horrible in this book. I think she's just right there in the

think she's just right there in the middle. So, I that's how I placed her. I

middle. So, I that's how I placed her. I placed her at number 10. She is a

placed her at number 10. She is a character that has one really defining

character that has one really defining great chapter in this book, like she has

great chapter in this book, like she has in every single book she's in. But

in every single book she's in. But outside of that, the rest of her

outside of that, the rest of her chapters are around the middle of my

chapters are around the middle of my rankings. I mean, I went back and I

rankings. I mean, I went back and I looked at it. I almost just have a

looked at it. I almost just have a cluster of Danny chapters, kind of

cluster of Danny chapters, kind of around that 30 to 40 range. That's where

around that 30 to 40 range. That's where most of her chapters are ranked outside

most of her chapters are ranked outside of like one of them. Like I do not have

of like one of them. Like I do not have another Daenerys chapter outside of

another Daenerys chapter outside of Danny 9 in my entire top 30. So that

Danny 9 in my entire top 30. So that should tell you where how I feel about

should tell you where how I feel about Daenerys. But she also doesn't have a

Daenerys. But she also doesn't have a chapter that's like in the bottom 10 of

chapter that's like in the bottom 10 of the book either. So she's a character

the book either. So she's a character that is kind of just okay. Like there's

that is kind of just okay. Like there's good things about her plotline and

good things about her plotline and there's bad things about her plot line.

there's bad things about her plot line. Let's talk about the good for instance.

Let's talk about the good for instance. Why I think she's above some of the

Why I think she's above some of the other characters in here. I think when

other characters in here. I think when we're putting when we get stuff where

we're putting when we get stuff where it's Daenerys having to make hard

it's Daenerys having to make hard decisions and looking and testing her

decisions and looking and testing her morale, it's very interesting, right?

morale, it's very interesting, right? Putting her in uncomfortable situations

Putting her in uncomfortable situations where, you know, she has all these

where, you know, she has all these refugees from Aapor coming to Meereen.

refugees from Aapor coming to Meereen. What does she do about that, right? Like

What does she do about that, right? Like they have this plague, they can't feed

they have this plague, they can't feed them. Well, what does she do about that?

them. Well, what does she do about that? Right? It's a really tough decision she

Right? It's a really tough decision she has to make. or the multiple times early

has to make. or the multiple times early in the book where, you know, she is

in the book where, you know, she is given an option to maybe leave Marine

given an option to maybe leave Marine and go to Westeros, but she doesn't and

and go to Westeros, but she doesn't and she has to make compromises to try and

she has to make compromises to try and rule over the city. So, I love those

rule over the city. So, I love those aspects of Daenerys's character. I love

aspects of Daenerys's character. I love the aspects where Daenerys is being

the aspects where Daenerys is being tested as a ruler and as a person.

tested as a ruler and as a person. Things I don't love about Daenerys in

Things I don't love about Daenerys in this book is sometimes the romance stuff

this book is sometimes the romance stuff drags on. um you know her constantly

drags on. um you know her constantly thinking about Daario or her romance

thinking about Daario or her romance when Daario was present or all the

when Daario was present or all the leadup and stuff to the Hisdar wedding

leadup and stuff to the Hisdar wedding and some of that stuff you know going

and some of that stuff you know going forward after then you introduce another

forward after then you introduce another suitor with Quentin and you have young

suitor with Quentin and you have young Griff who is supposed to marry her and

Griff who is supposed to marry her and you have Victarion coming like I just

you have Victarion coming like I just feel like I don't enjoy the romance side

feel like I don't enjoy the romance side of Daenerys's arc because there's just

of Daenerys's arc because there's just so much of it there's so many different

so much of it there's so many different type of characters that are trying

type of characters that are trying trying to compete for that and do all

trying to compete for that and do all that stuff.

that stuff. And I think at parts of this book, it

And I think at parts of this book, it kind of runs on too much. And I will say

kind of runs on too much. And I will say about Daenerys is she feels like just

about Daenerys is she feels like just throughout the whole book, she feels

throughout the whole book, she feels like a character where her chapters kind

like a character where her chapters kind of run together. Like even me removed,

of run together. Like even me removed, you know, I would say a good number of

you know, I would say a good number of months from eating from reading her, you

months from eating from reading her, you know, early chapters, some of them start

know, early chapters, some of them start to blend together because there isn't

to blend together because there isn't like a for instance John, right? in her

like a for instance John, right? in her his early chapters he has very

his early chapters he has very significant moments throughout each

significant moments throughout each chapter that help you remember you know

chapter that help you remember you know exactly what happens in each chapter you

exactly what happens in each chapter you know for instance the beginning you have

know for instance the beginning you have the Stannis section of the story for Jon

the Stannis section of the story for Jon so you have you know Janice slint being

so you have you know Janice slint being killed and you have Jon asking for the

killed and you have Jon asking for the wildlings but giving Stannis this you

wildlings but giving Stannis this you know the mountain clans where he can go

know the mountain clans where he can go for that and all that Daenerys doesn't

for that and all that Daenerys doesn't really have that has a lot of chapters

really have that has a lot of chapters that cover the same type of topics but

that cover the same type of topics but just in different chapters and so I

just in different chapters and so I think Daenerys the problem of Cersei in

think Daenerys the problem of Cersei in the middle of A Feast for Crows where

the middle of A Feast for Crows where Cersei has a couple chapters that kind

Cersei has a couple chapters that kind of run together in your mind and they're

of run together in your mind and they're hard to differentiate. Daenerys kind of

hard to differentiate. Daenerys kind of has that throughout the whole book

has that throughout the whole book outside of like Daenerys 9, which is one

outside of like Daenerys 9, which is one of the best of the book. So Daenerys, in

of the best of the book. So Daenerys, in my opinion, she's just a fine POV of

my opinion, she's just a fine POV of this book. I don't think she's great. I

this book. I don't think she's great. I don't think she's, you know, terrible

don't think she's, you know, terrible either. Number nine, I have Arya. I

either. Number nine, I have Arya. I loved Arya in this book. Uh I didn't

loved Arya in this book. Uh I didn't remember loving Arya in this book as

remember loving Arya in this book as much as I I do now. I mean, I have both

much as I I do now. I mean, I have both of her chapters within my top 30, one of

of her chapters within my top 30, one of them being at eight and the other one

them being at eight and the other one being directly at 30. Um, I really

being directly at 30. Um, I really enjoyed I I really enjoyed her arc. I

enjoyed I I really enjoyed her arc. I think it took everything that Feast for

think it took everything that Feast for Crows was setting up and then paid it

Crows was setting up and then paid it off in this book and it felt earned. It

off in this book and it felt earned. It felt great. It felt like this stuff

felt great. It felt like this stuff should have been in Feast for Crows is

should have been in Feast for Crows is what it feels like. And it's us

what it feels like. And it's us exploring more of the Faceless Men,

exploring more of the Faceless Men, getting more into their magic and the

getting more into their magic and the ways that they go about doing things.

ways that they go about doing things. and still Arya kind of trying to figure

and still Arya kind of trying to figure that out, but also still holding on to

that out, but also still holding on to parts of herself, right? Like why is she

parts of herself, right? Like why is she killing people, right? And all that type

killing people, right? And all that type of stuff that goes along with that,

of stuff that goes along with that, whereas the phasesman, you know, just

whereas the phasesman, you know, just want her to kill them because they say

want her to kill them because they say so. And so you have a lot of that going

so. And so you have a lot of that going on in this book as well. I think the

on in this book as well. I think the only thing that holds Arya down is she

only thing that holds Arya down is she only has two chapters. If Arya had more

only has two chapters. If Arya had more chapters in this book, she'd be much

chapters in this book, she'd be much higher than just number nine, for

higher than just number nine, for instance. you know, if she had more

instance. you know, if she had more chapters because again there we still

chapters because again there we still have a couple characters and you know,

have a couple characters and you know, going up the rest of these rankings, you

going up the rest of these rankings, you know, three through eight all have four

know, three through eight all have four chapters or less. So, I think if Arya

chapters or less. So, I think if Arya would have had more chapters in this

would have had more chapters in this book, she would have gotten a little

book, she would have gotten a little higher, but I think that's the only

higher, but I think that's the only thing that really holds her down. Number

thing that really holds her down. Number eight, I have Bran. Now, again, very

eight, I have Bran. Now, again, very similar to Arya. Bran is a character

similar to Arya. Bran is a character that only has three POV chapters in this

that only has three POV chapters in this book. They're all fantastic. I love all

book. They're all fantastic. I love all three of Bran's chapters in this book.

three of Bran's chapters in this book. It finally feels like we start to have a

It finally feels like we start to have a lot of tension. We're getting to the

lot of tension. We're getting to the best parts of Bran in the series, and

best parts of Bran in the series, and then all of a sudden, George cuts him

then all of a sudden, George cuts him off about halfway through this book.

off about halfway through this book. Now, I'm not George. I don't know what's

Now, I'm not George. I don't know what's in George's head. I don't know if George

in George's head. I don't know if George just wanted Bran to develop more

just wanted Bran to develop more offscreen so that when we come back to

offscreen so that when we come back to the character, he's advanced quite a bit

the character, he's advanced quite a bit cuz we haven't seen him for a good

cuz we haven't seen him for a good amount of time. and he's also learning

amount of time. and he's also learning to see things and all this stuff that

to see things and all this stuff that maybe George doesn't want us to see. So,

maybe George doesn't want us to see. So, he's waiting for Winds of Winter to, you

he's waiting for Winds of Winter to, you know, continue with that character. It's

know, continue with that character. It's similar to how he wanted like the

similar to how he wanted like the five-year time skip between Storm and

five-year time skip between Storm and the last two books. Maybe he's kind of

the last two books. Maybe he's kind of doing that kind of a situation because

doing that kind of a situation because just seems very weird that Bran finally

just seems very weird that Bran finally gets to, in my opinion, these three

gets to, in my opinion, these three chapters he has in this book are some of

chapters he has in this book are some of his best of the entire series of the

his best of the entire series of the entire first three books. And then all

entire first three books. And then all of a sudden, you know, you he disappears

of a sudden, you know, you he disappears after he gets Jojan paste more than

after he gets Jojan paste more than likely and we start seeing him seeing

likely and we start seeing him seeing these visions of the past and almost

these visions of the past and almost being able to interact with the past,

being able to interact with the past, right? Calling to his father, for

right? Calling to his father, for instance, and his father reacting to it.

instance, and his father reacting to it. I I I think it's interesting that George

I I I think it's interesting that George decided to cut this character off the

decided to cut this character off the halfway point. But I really did enjoy

halfway point. But I really did enjoy Bran's journey from him going with cold

Bran's journey from him going with cold hands to making it to the cave, learning

hands to making it to the cave, learning more knowledge and things like that. Uh,

more knowledge and things like that. Uh, it seems heartbreaking for Bran because

it seems heartbreaking for Bran because he believed he'd be able to at least

he believed he'd be able to at least walk again. But no, he will be able to

walk again. But no, he will be able to fly more or less is kind of what Blood

fly more or less is kind of what Blood Raven tells him. I really like Bran. I

Raven tells him. I really like Bran. I think if Bran, same thing of Arya. If

think if Bran, same thing of Arya. If Bran had more chapters, I think he would

Bran had more chapters, I think he would be a bit higher than this. But with that

be a bit higher than this. But with that being said, there's a number of

being said, there's a number of characters that have very similar

characters that have very similar chapter counts that Bran has that I just

chapter counts that Bran has that I just prefer more than Bran, unfortunately for

prefer more than Bran, unfortunately for Bran. Number seven, I have Cersei. Now,

Bran. Number seven, I have Cersei. Now, Cersei has two POV chapters within this

Cersei has two POV chapters within this book. They both feel like they should

book. They both feel like they should have been in Feast for Crows, but that's

have been in Feast for Crows, but that's kind of a Feast for Crows's fault, not

kind of a Feast for Crows's fault, not Dance with Dragons's fault, because her

Dance with Dragons's fault, because her chapters of seeing her right after she's

chapters of seeing her right after she's been imprisoned, after everything that

been imprisoned, after everything that happened in Feast for Crows, being

happened in Feast for Crows, being completely broken down and desperate

completely broken down and desperate that she would even consider doing this

that she would even consider doing this walk of atonement. That easily is one of

walk of atonement. That easily is one of the most traumatic things you could

the most traumatic things you could possibly go through. and watching her

possibly go through. and watching her come back down to earth and seeing her

come back down to earth and seeing her reduced to the state that she's in by

reduced to the state that she's in by the end of A Dance of the Dragons is one

the end of A Dance of the Dragons is one of the best writing I think that George

of the best writing I think that George has done just in terms of making us care

has done just in terms of making us care about Cersei in a way that we could

about Cersei in a way that we could never have believed we'd be able to do

never have believed we'd be able to do in book one. Making the faith more

in book one. Making the faith more hatable and more villainous it would

hatable and more villainous it would appear than someone like Cersei where

appear than someone like Cersei where you even feel bad for Cersei. It's some

you even feel bad for Cersei. It's some of the best writing that that I've seen

of the best writing that that I've seen George actually do and I think it's very

George actually do and I think it's very underrated in the community. But I will

underrated in the community. But I will say once again, why is she down here at

say once again, why is she down here at seven? You know, with all that praise I

seven? You know, with all that praise I just gave her. She only has two

just gave her. She only has two chapters. I mean, I really enjoyed both

chapters. I mean, I really enjoyed both of her chapters, just like Arya, but

of her chapters, just like Arya, but even better. But I think there's

even better. But I think there's characters that have a bit more of a

characters that have a bit more of a story start to finish in this book and

story start to finish in this book and have more chapters than her that deserve

have more chapters than her that deserve to be higher. If these two chapters had

to be higher. If these two chapters had been in A Feast for Crows, I would have

been in A Feast for Crows, I would have said that Cersei was the best POV of A

said that Cersei was the best POV of A Feast for Crows. But because she didn't

Feast for Crows. But because she didn't have that natural conclusion, which the

have that natural conclusion, which the conclusion for Feast for Crows, for

conclusion for Feast for Crows, for sure, Cersei is still good, it's just

sure, Cersei is still good, it's just not as good as it could have been, and

not as good as it could have been, and these chapters kind of prove that.

these chapters kind of prove that. But here, she's still solid. You know,

But here, she's still solid. You know, she's still going to be up in the upper

she's still going to be up in the upper part of this ranking even with only

part of this ranking even with only having two chapters. Number six comes in

having two chapters. Number six comes in with my highest rated character with two

with my highest rated character with two chapters and that is John Conington. I I

chapters and that is John Conington. I I mean I what can you say? I I love John

mean I what can you say? I I love John Conington's

Conington's chapters. I love what we get with the

chapters. I love what we get with the prelude of him with Tyrion. This

prelude of him with Tyrion. This character that is deeply traumatized by

character that is deeply traumatized by his past and the Battle of the Bells and

his past and the Battle of the Bells and being put into exile, but then now

being put into exile, but then now finding this, you know, newfound love

finding this, you know, newfound love for Rhaegar's son and trying to get him

for Rhaegar's son and trying to get him on the Iron Throne. We get a lot of our

on the Iron Throne. We get a lot of our lore about the Golden Company through

lore about the Golden Company through John Conington. One of my favorite parts

John Conington. One of my favorite parts of A Song of West and Fire lore is the

of A Song of West and Fire lore is the Golden Company. I've come to love them

Golden Company. I've come to love them quite a lot over the last like year and

quite a lot over the last like year and a half. I've really become more of a

a half. I've really become more of a Blackfire guy. Aore, if you're watching

Blackfire guy. Aore, if you're watching this video, you know that my Blackfire

this video, you know that my Blackfire thing in the background. I wish they

thing in the background. I wish they made more Blackfire like merchandise.

made more Blackfire like merchandise. And I hope with Duncan Egg coming along,

And I hope with Duncan Egg coming along, I won't be this uh year. probably when

I won't be this uh year. probably when it comes out in season two, we'll maybe

it comes out in season two, we'll maybe start getting more Blackfire memorabilia

start getting more Blackfire memorabilia and stuff like that, which would be

and stuff like that, which would be awesome. But I really love, you know,

awesome. But I really love, you know, young Griff's plotline of introducing

young Griff's plotline of introducing this new character that possibly could

this new character that possibly could be Aegon Targaryen, Rhaegar's son, or is

be Aegon Targaryen, Rhaegar's son, or is he, you know, Yo's son, or the mysteries

he, you know, Yo's son, or the mysteries behind that? Going back to Griffin's

behind that? Going back to Griffin's roost with the character of John

roost with the character of John Conington is like very much like Theon,

Conington is like very much like Theon, but maybe not as good as Theon, but

but maybe not as good as Theon, but still, you know, there seeing the his

still, you know, there seeing the his past ghosts and things and things like

past ghosts and things and things like that. I really like John Khan in this

that. I really like John Khan in this book. I I think that once again, kind of

book. I I think that once again, kind of how I feel about a lot of the characters

how I feel about a lot of the characters that have two chapters or less. if they

that have two chapters or less. if they had been given more time, you know, if

had been given more time, you know, if characters like Tyrion and Quentyn had

characters like Tyrion and Quentyn had been more cut down in this book and we

been more cut down in this book and we had spent more time with some of these

had spent more time with some of these other POVs that are now kind of taking

other POVs that are now kind of taking up the mantle, right, of being the best

up the mantle, right, of being the best characters of the series, they just

characters of the series, they just didn't get enough time in this book. And

didn't get enough time in this book. And John Conington kind of gets a pass

John Conington kind of gets a pass because we see a lot of him through

because we see a lot of him through Tyrion's earlier chapters. But, you

Tyrion's earlier chapters. But, you know, characters like, you know, Arya or

know, characters like, you know, Arya or Bran, I think Bran and specifically, you

Bran, I think Bran and specifically, you know, and Cersei and Victarion,

know, and Cersei and Victarion, you know, I wish we would have gotten

you know, I wish we would have gotten more of them instead of getting more of

more of them instead of getting more of Tyrion and Quentyn. Moving into our top

Tyrion and Quentyn. Moving into our top five. Now, this one might be, I guess,

five. Now, this one might be, I guess, divisive. I I don't I don't know because

divisive. I I don't I don't know because to me I think the north plot plot line

to me I think the north plot plot line is the best plot line of the book

is the best plot line of the book whether that be with Davos, Theon or Jon

whether that be with Davos, Theon or Jon or Asha. Five four of my top five all

or Asha. Five four of my top five all revolve around the north. I think if the

revolve around the north. I think if the Essos plot had not been as prevalent as

Essos plot had not been as prevalent as it is in this book, especially with, you

it is in this book, especially with, you know, Daenerys, Tyrion, you know,

know, Daenerys, Tyrion, you know, Quentin, all these characters, like we

Quentin, all these characters, like we have a good like we have a substantial

have a good like we have a substantial amount of plot in Essos.

amount of plot in Essos. I think that this book would have been

I think that this book would have been better. This book didn't have as much of

better. This book didn't have as much of it.

it. But with that said, number five, I have

But with that said, number five, I have Asha. Now, Asha has three chapters and I

Asha. Now, Asha has three chapters and I think all of them are fantastic, right?

think all of them are fantastic, right? We have the Deepwood M attack at night.

We have the Deepwood M attack at night. Um, you know, Stainless capturing Asha,

Um, you know, Stainless capturing Asha, which is one of my favorite chapters of

which is one of my favorite chapters of the book. I know people don't like it

the book. I know people don't like it because of the Carl the Maid section.

because of the Carl the Maid section. It's basically a big sex scene in the

It's basically a big sex scene in the middle of the book. I don't mind it as

middle of the book. I don't mind it as much as I usually don't like when George

much as I usually don't like when George really goes deep into basically writing

really goes deep into basically writing sex novels, but I do actually don't I

sex novels, but I do actually don't I actually don't mind it here because it

actually don't mind it here because it serves a very important narrative focus

serves a very important narrative focus in that Asha feels completely

in that Asha feels completely surrounded. She feels like there's no

surrounded. She feels like there's no way out. She feels like doom is coming

way out. She feels like doom is coming or she's going to have to go into exile.

or she's going to have to go into exile. And you know, these few moments with

And you know, these few moments with Carl the maid, they kind of alleviate

Carl the maid, they kind of alleviate that, right? for a few moments, Asha

that, right? for a few moments, Asha forgets about those stresses and she's

forgets about those stresses and she's just, you know, a woman again or

just, you know, a woman again or whatnot. And so I get the push back on

whatnot. And so I get the push back on Asha. I I do. I personally love Asha.

Asha. I I do. I personally love Asha. Asha is one of my favorite characters of

Asha is one of my favorite characters of the female characters. She's definitely

the female characters. She's definitely up there as being one of my favorites.

up there as being one of my favorites. And you know, I love that then we get to

And you know, I love that then we get to see her paired with character like

see her paired with character like Stannis, right? being the POV into him

Stannis, right? being the POV into him being such a different character, right,

being such a different character, right, of looking at Stannis because we've seen

of looking at Stannis because we've seen Stannis through characters like Catelyn,

Stannis through characters like Catelyn, like Davos, like Jon. It's very

like Davos, like Jon. It's very different with Asha because Asha comes

different with Asha because Asha comes from a family that is in direct, you

from a family that is in direct, you know, conflict with someone like

know, conflict with someone like Stannis. Stannis is the reason in a lot

Stannis. Stannis is the reason in a lot of ways the great joy rebellion did not,

of ways the great joy rebellion did not, you know, go anywhere. He was the one

you know, go anywhere. He was the one that thwarted their navy. And so you

that thwarted their navy. And so you have this interesting back and forth

have this interesting back and forth between, you know, Asha seeing, you

between, you know, Asha seeing, you know, this almost like Napoleon and

know, this almost like Napoleon and Russia type campaign with Stannis trying

Russia type campaign with Stannis trying to get to Winterfell and how horribly

to get to Winterfell and how horribly that goes and then even her last chapter

that goes and then even her last chapter where there's so much tension built up

where there's so much tension built up and seeing, you know, Theon and her

and seeing, you know, Theon and her reunite once again. If, you know, we had

reunite once again. If, you know, we had gotten something where Tyrion and

gotten something where Tyrion and Quentyn had been cut down and Asha had

Quentyn had been cut down and Asha had been given more chapters to finish out

been given more chapters to finish out the real northern plotline with Stannis

the real northern plotline with Stannis taking on this Frey force, she'd be

taking on this Frey force, she'd be probably up there right underneath

probably up there right underneath Theon. But because she only has three

Theon. But because she only has three chapters, she doesn't finish in the best

chapters, she doesn't finish in the best spot, right? Her finish in in the book

spot, right? Her finish in in the book is basically she meets Theon after he's

is basically she meets Theon after he's been more or less rescued by Morris Crow

been more or less rescued by Morris Crow food umber and then been taken back to

food umber and then been taken back to the camp with this party that Jon sent

the camp with this party that Jon sent to them with the Iron Bank banker. And

to them with the Iron Bank banker. And so she doesn't end like on the craziest

so she doesn't end like on the craziest note. She doesn't end where you would

note. She doesn't end where you would naturally think that plotline was going.

naturally think that plotline was going. And so because of those reasons, I think

And so because of those reasons, I think that kind of holds Asha down. Number

that kind of holds Asha down. Number four, I have as Barristen. Now, Barrison

four, I have as Barristen. Now, Barrison has four chapters, but it's kind of

has four chapters, but it's kind of weird because all of Barrison's chapters

weird because all of Barrison's chapters come at the very end of the book. All

come at the very end of the book. All four of his come in the last quarter of

four of his come in the last quarter of the book, but he's such an interesting

the book, but he's such an interesting POV. He if you like Ned, for instance,

POV. He if you like Ned, for instance, if like if Ned's like one of your

if like if Ned's like one of your favorite POVs, you will love Barristen

favorite POVs, you will love Barristen because it feels the exact same. And

because it feels the exact same. And that that feeling that I got when I was

that that feeling that I got when I was doing my reread of a Game of Thrones and

doing my reread of a Game of Thrones and I was coming on here every week and

I was coming on here every week and breaking down the book and especially

breaking down the book and especially Ned because he's so prevalent in that

Ned because he's so prevalent in that book. All of those feelings come back

book. All of those feelings come back when you read Barristan because it's the

when you read Barristan because it's the same idea but just in Essos. You take

same idea but just in Essos. You take Barrist who's a very honorable man who's

Barrist who's a very honorable man who's been through a lot of things in his

been through a lot of things in his life. He has a lot of knowledge on

life. He has a lot of knowledge on things like Robert's Rebellion, uh the

things like Robert's Rebellion, uh the War of the Nine Penney Kings, Defiance

War of the Nine Penney Kings, Defiance of Duskondale, Aerys's reign. He has

of Duskondale, Aerys's reign. He has just so much knowledge that's

just so much knowledge that's fascinating. He also has some of this,

fascinating. He also has some of this, you know, old man kind of wisdom and how

you know, old man kind of wisdom and how he views things like love and Ashara

he views things like love and Ashara before the Ry Rebellion stuff. He's just

before the Ry Rebellion stuff. He's just such a fascinating POV that I love to

such a fascinating POV that I love to hear from. Like he's one of those like

hear from. Like he's one of those like grandpas that has really good stories

grandpas that has really good stories that you just kind of want to like hear

that you just kind of want to like hear more about. That's Barriston. He he's a

more about. That's Barriston. He he's a character that can provide so much lore

character that can provide so much lore to things we just do not know in the

to things we just do not know in the story right now. Like the war of the

story right now. Like the war of the nine penny kings is something that we

nine penny kings is something that we don't know all that much about. We know

don't know all that much about. We know like the general outline, but we don't

like the general outline, but we don't have specific stuff that Barrison would

have specific stuff that Barrison would be able to tell us. And so you have that

be able to tell us. And so you have that part of it. You then have the part of it

part of it. You then have the part of it where you put Barrison in a very

where you put Barrison in a very uncomfortable situation. Daenerys is

uncomfortable situation. Daenerys is gone and he's being pushed into acting

gone and he's being pushed into acting because of his DAR and how he's managed

because of his DAR and how he's managed uh Meereen. You know, he's having to try

uh Meereen. You know, he's having to try and play politics, something that Ned

and play politics, something that Ned struggled with a lot. Barrison's the

struggled with a lot. Barrison's the exact same. And so their plot lines run

exact same. And so their plot lines run very similar. Barrison has to do some

very similar. Barrison has to do some sort of coup to get his daughter out of

sort of coup to get his daughter out of power to put himself more or less in

power to put himself more or less in power and then going to fight the

power and then going to fight the slavers and all of that. I think the

slavers and all of that. I think the only knock and the reason that I decided

only knock and the reason that I decided to put Davos ahead of Barrist as the

to put Davos ahead of Barrist as the last like four chapter POV is Barrison

last like four chapter POV is Barrison doesn't really end on a natural spot

doesn't really end on a natural spot either. He's very similar to Asha in

either. He's very similar to Asha in that regard is that you would think

that regard is that you would think right the ending point for Baristan

right the ending point for Baristan would be the battle of fire because

would be the battle of fire because we're building up to this conflict

we're building up to this conflict between the slavers and marine and we're

between the slavers and marine and we're not going to see that till winds of

not going to see that till winds of winter. It would almost feel like if in

winter. It would almost feel like if in a Clash of Kings we were building up to

a Clash of Kings we were building up to the battle of the Blackwater. We get,

the battle of the Blackwater. We get, you know, Tyrion and Davos having one

you know, Tyrion and Davos having one chapter before the battle starts and

chapter before the battle starts and then just not showing it until the

then just not showing it until the beginning of the Storm of Swords. It's

beginning of the Storm of Swords. It's what it feels like, right? We've been

what it feels like, right? We've been building up to this conflict the whole

building up to this conflict the whole book and then it's not going to happen.

book and then it's not going to happen. So those things really, I think, hold

So those things really, I think, hold back POVs like Barrison and Asha from

back POVs like Barrison and Asha from going further. Whereas for my number

going further. Whereas for my number three, Davos, who also has four POV

three, Davos, who also has four POV chapters, he ends on a more normal note,

chapters, he ends on a more normal note, right? His whole goal is to try and get

right? His whole goal is to try and get Wyman Manderly to back Stannis, right?

Wyman Manderly to back Stannis, right? Okay. Well, we get to about the middle

Okay. Well, we get to about the middle point of the book. There's this whole

point of the book. There's this whole North remembers plot that comes out and

North remembers plot that comes out and so Davos has to have this mission in

so Davos has to have this mission in Skagos. We don't see him the rest of the

Skagos. We don't see him the rest of the book. It would have been great to see

book. It would have been great to see him, you know, the rest of the book to

him, you know, the rest of the book to go to Skagos, but it's a natural end

go to Skagos, but it's a natural end point that makes sense to then focus on

point that makes sense to then focus on other things going on in the story. So

other things going on in the story. So Davos to me is a more complete story

Davos to me is a more complete story even though he's only in about half of

even though he's only in about half of it than say someone like Barristan. Now

it than say someone like Barristan. Now Davos has always been a favorite of

Davos has always been a favorite of mine. He's a POV into the Stainless

mine. He's a POV into the Stainless Camp. I love this character. Davos is up

Camp. I love this character. Davos is up there as one of my favorites and I just

there as one of my favorites and I just love what we get from his POV. You know,

love what we get from his POV. You know, I think everybody always looks at the

I think everybody always looks at the stuff in White Harbor, which is

stuff in White Harbor, which is fantastic, of course, don't get me

fantastic, of course, don't get me wrong, but I do like his opening chapter

wrong, but I do like his opening chapter as well, and how that, you know, him

as well, and how that, you know, him basically being at the sisters kind of

basically being at the sisters kind of again foreshadows Ned when he was there

again foreshadows Ned when he was there during Robert's Rebellion. I love that

during Robert's Rebellion. I love that tie-in. I I love the way that that

tie-in. I I love the way that that connects, you know, this area on the

connects, you know, this area on the north, building out the world a bit, but

north, building out the world a bit, but also making Davos go into more of this

also making Davos go into more of this mode of being the smuggler and going

mode of being the smuggler and going back into what he used to be. And that

back into what he used to be. And that kind of carries on. I will say Davos 2

kind of carries on. I will say Davos 2 is his weakest of the book because it's

is his weakest of the book because it's a chapter where he arrives at White

a chapter where he arrives at White Harbor, but not a whole lot happens.

Harbor, but not a whole lot happens. It's really Davos gauging, you know,

It's really Davos gauging, you know, what the public feel about about what

what the public feel about about what Wyman Manley is doing and the state of

Wyman Manley is doing and the state of the castle and all that stuff. It's more

the castle and all that stuff. It's more of a okay setup chapter for Davos 3. And

of a okay setup chapter for Davos 3. And then Davos 3, you know, his whole

then Davos 3, you know, his whole meeting with Wyman Manerly. It's so

meeting with Wyman Manerly. It's so great because you feel like Davos,

great because you feel like Davos, right? Because you have the phrase

right? Because you have the phrase trying to say all this stuff about what

trying to say all this stuff about what really happened at the Red Wedding and

really happened at the Red Wedding and all that stuff. And you know, you as a

all that stuff. And you know, you as a reader, you know what happened, right?

reader, you know what happened, right? And so you're there with Davos saying,

And so you're there with Davos saying, "No, why me? Why are you going with

"No, why me? Why are you going with these phrase? They went against you.

these phrase? They went against you. They went against your king. They hold

They went against your king. They hold your son hostage.

your son hostage. Why would you back them? And so then

Why would you back them? And so then when you get to Davos 4 and and you do

when you get to Davos 4 and and you do think that Davos might die given the

think that Davos might die given the fact that in Feast for Crows in a small

fact that in Feast for Crows in a small council meeting with Cersei, we do hear

council meeting with Cersei, we do hear that Davos dies. And so we're sitting

that Davos dies. And so we're sitting here going, "Okay, wait. Davos is now in

here going, "Okay, wait. Davos is now in prison. Is he going to die?" And then

prison. Is he going to die?" And then you get in my opinion the best chapter

you get in my opinion the best chapter of the book which is the north remembers

of the book which is the north remembers the whole plot coming out with Wyman and

the whole plot coming out with Wyman and Manderly and Davos. It's just so

Manderly and Davos. It's just so fantastically done. Um tying back to the

fantastically done. Um tying back to the Red Wedding and the whole North plot as

Red Wedding and the whole North plot as a whole adding to the the conflicts that

a whole adding to the the conflicts that are going on with Roose trying to rally

are going on with Roose trying to rally the North against Stannis. It's paced

the North against Stannis. It's paced beautifully the beginning of the

beautifully the beginning of the chapter. Davos basically writing to you

chapter. Davos basically writing to you know his wife and his kids because he

know his wife and his kids because he thinks he's going to die.

thinks he's going to die. It's just a perfect chapter in my

It's just a perfect chapter in my opinion. And so Davos has the best

opinion. And so Davos has the best chapter of this book, which is why he

chapter of this book, which is why he has to be pretty close to the top in my

has to be pretty close to the top in my opinion. I just wish we'd gotten maybe a

opinion. I just wish we'd gotten maybe a little bit more of him. But um you know,

little bit more of him. But um you know, he's one of those characters that

he's one of those characters that usually doesn't get a big focus on. And

usually doesn't get a big focus on. And so of the side characters, the

so of the side characters, the characters with like four POV chapters

characters with like four POV chapters or less, in my opinion, he is the best

or less, in my opinion, he is the best one. Number two is Jon Snow. Finally,

one. Number two is Jon Snow. Finally, Jon Snow is kind of the dominant POV of

Jon Snow is kind of the dominant POV of a book, and that's just the case here.

a book, and that's just the case here. He has the most of the book. He is the

He has the most of the book. He is the more entertaining of the main three.

more entertaining of the main three. Again, I have Daenerys at 10 and Tyrion

Again, I have Daenerys at 10 and Tyrion at 17. So, of the characters that have

at 17. So, of the characters that have more than 10 chapters or at 10 chapters,

more than 10 chapters or at 10 chapters, he is by far the best. I think the North

he is by far the best. I think the North plotline is fantastic. And there's

plotline is fantastic. And there's really two phases of Jon, right? The

really two phases of Jon, right? The first phase is Jon struggling to figure

first phase is Jon struggling to figure out how to be the Lord Commander,

out how to be the Lord Commander, figuring out what kind of Lord Commander

figuring out what kind of Lord Commander he's going to be going to be and then

he's going to be going to be and then managing both the Nights Watch and

managing both the Nights Watch and Stannis. Stannis is the kind of that

Stannis. Stannis is the kind of that first half arc for Jon. And there's just

first half arc for Jon. And there's just some standout chapters in those early

some standout chapters in those early points, right? You know, when you have

points, right? You know, when you have things like Mance's alleged death, you

things like Mance's alleged death, you know, seeing how that impacts a

know, seeing how that impacts a character like Jon, having Janice Slint

character like Jon, having Janice Slint and his execution, something that we've

and his execution, something that we've been waiting to see for books now, you

been waiting to see for books now, you know, seeing Stannis and Jon depart, and

know, seeing Stannis and Jon depart, and even Stannis and Jon negotiating about

even Stannis and Jon negotiating about certain things. And then you see him

certain things. And then you see him then shift in the second half, which is

then shift in the second half, which is all about the wildlings, trying to get

all about the wildlings, trying to get the wildlings south of the wall just so

the wildlings south of the wall just so they're not added to the army of the

they're not added to the army of the dead. and seeing how Jon navigates that

dead. and seeing how Jon navigates that and the bad decisions he makes, his poor

and the bad decisions he makes, his poor communication.

communication. I think that Jon is really good in this

I think that Jon is really good in this book. I would put this up there as his

book. I would put this up there as his best book with a Storm of Swords. I

best book with a Storm of Swords. I think they're pretty equal. I lean

think they're pretty equal. I lean towards a Storm of Swords. I like more

towards a Storm of Swords. I like more some of the things that George explores

some of the things that George explores more with the character in that book

more with the character in that book than this one, but still fantastic in

than this one, but still fantastic in this book. Every Jon chapter has

this book. Every Jon chapter has something to offer. There is no bad Jon

something to offer. There is no bad Jon Snow chapter in my opinion. I think

Snow chapter in my opinion. I think there's some okay ones, ones that don't

there's some okay ones, ones that don't really stand out all that much, and

really stand out all that much, and that's going to happen when you have 13

that's going to happen when you have 13 POV chapters, but the more more likely

POV chapters, but the more more likely than not, you know, he has some pretty

than not, you know, he has some pretty solid and good ones throughout the book

solid and good ones throughout the book that keep you pretty entertained.

that keep you pretty entertained. There's some great moments with like

There's some great moments with like Alice Karstark and Jon and their kind of

Alice Karstark and Jon and their kind of relationship, Val and Jon, Tormund and

relationship, Val and Jon, Tormund and Jon, Mel and John, how that all works

Jon, Mel and John, how that all works out. And then he has in my opinion

out. And then he has in my opinion outside of maybe Theon has one of the

outside of maybe Theon has one of the best conclusions to the story, right?

best conclusions to the story, right? His death. All these events, how he's

His death. All these events, how he's leading has led to this moment where

leading has led to this moment where people have turned against him. He dies

people have turned against him. He dies at the end of the book. It's the big

at the end of the book. It's the big cliffhanger of this book. You know, you

cliffhanger of this book. You know, you look back at Game of Thrones, the

look back at Game of Thrones, the cultural impact of Jon's death had at

cultural impact of Jon's death had at the end of season five and that time

the end of season five and that time between season five and six, that same

between season five and six, that same thing happens in the books, except it's

thing happens in the books, except it's just way better done. So,

just way better done. So, yeah, Jon Snow at two for me, just

yeah, Jon Snow at two for me, just because I think number one, Theon. Theon

because I think number one, Theon. Theon to me

to me of the last two books is the clear best

of the last two books is the clear best POV. He is just the way George wrote

POV. He is just the way George wrote this character. Um, it it's just

this character. Um, it it's just fantastic. This is this is his I would

fantastic. This is this is his I would say some of his best writing of the

say some of his best writing of the entire series is Theon. Theon going

entire series is Theon. Theon going from, you know, the beginning of the

from, you know, the beginning of the book where we didn't know he was even

book where we didn't know he was even still alive. This isn't the show. We

still alive. This isn't the show. We didn't have scenes in between Clash of

didn't have scenes in between Clash of Kings and the Dance of the Dragons. We

Kings and the Dance of the Dragons. We didn't know where Theon was. We didn't

didn't know where Theon was. We didn't know how he was doing. And when you come

know how he was doing. And when you come back and he's this character who's

back and he's this character who's missing fingers and, you know, toes and

missing fingers and, you know, toes and he's, you know, old looking and super

he's, you know, old looking and super thin and he's completely broken as a

thin and he's completely broken as a character of this Reek character. And

character of this Reek character. And George goes and takes this character on

George goes and takes this character on a journey of exploring his past, slowly

a journey of exploring his past, slowly breaking out of this Reek situation. And

breaking out of this Reek situation. And that slow burn that you're trying,

that slow burn that you're trying, you're waiting to for Theon to come back

you're waiting to for Theon to come back or at least some part of Theon to break

or at least some part of Theon to break through

through is just really, really well done. And we

is just really, really well done. And we see so much darkness through this

see so much darkness through this character of the characters like Ramsay,

character of the characters like Ramsay, Roose, Arbory, Dustin, um you know, the

Roose, Arbory, Dustin, um you know, the list goes on and on in terms of the

list goes on and on in terms of the North. And he is our kind of our counter

North. And he is our kind of our counter Asha POV, right? Because we're seeing,

Asha POV, right? Because we're seeing, you know, Roose and Ramsay through his

you know, Roose and Ramsay through his eyes. So some of his chapters and the

eyes. So some of his chapters and the best ones for me are at Winterfell. I I

best ones for me are at Winterfell. I I think as Theon goes, he is the most I

think as Theon goes, he is the most I think natural character of the book. He

think natural character of the book. He starts out I would say at his weakest in

starts out I would say at his weakest in terms of as a character, but also how

terms of as a character, but also how good his chapters are. And all the

good his chapters are. And all the chapters are good by the way. When I'm

chapters are good by the way. When I'm saying his weakest, I mean like maybe

saying his weakest, I mean like maybe his first chapter is like top 30, but by

his first chapter is like top 30, but by the end every single chapter he has is

the end every single chapter he has is like a top 15 chapter. He only gets

like a top 15 chapter. He only gets better as the book goes until you

better as the book goes until you finally get to this point where, you

finally get to this point where, you know, this Jane Pool character has been

know, this Jane Pool character has been married to Ramsay and that's the thing

married to Ramsay and that's the thing kind of pulling him out of being Reek

kind of pulling him out of being Reek until he's forced to help her escape and

until he's forced to help her escape and he becomes, you know, Theon or at least

he becomes, you know, Theon or at least a better version of Theon once again,

a better version of Theon once again, helping to save Jane Pool. and that

helping to save Jane Pool. and that character arc where you have such a

character arc where you have such a compelling character arc, but not only

compelling character arc, but not only that, you have a very interesting plot

that, you have a very interesting plot that forwards the plot in every single

that forwards the plot in every single chapter, right? Whether that's the

chapter, right? Whether that's the taking of Mo Kalin, whether that's going

taking of Mo Kalin, whether that's going to Winterfell and seeing this fake Arya

to Winterfell and seeing this fake Arya married to Ramsay, that is extremely

married to Ramsay, that is extremely important plot point in this book,

important plot point in this book, whether it's Theon kind of exploring all

whether it's Theon kind of exploring all these mysteries and murders that are

these mysteries and murders that are happening in the castle or going to the

happening in the castle or going to the crypts with Barbarie Dustin.

crypts with Barbarie Dustin. So what I was trying to say with with

So what I was trying to say with with Theon is I think that you know this book

Theon is I think that you know this book Dance of Giants and Feast for Crows

Dance of Giants and Feast for Crows really struggled with

really struggled with how do you expand the world while also

how do you expand the world while also giving a very compelling character arc

giving a very compelling character arc where you're also forwarding the plot

where you're also forwarding the plot and sometimes George struggles with

and sometimes George struggles with that. And I think he struggled a lot of

that. And I think he struggled a lot of that with a character like Tyrion in

that with a character like Tyrion in this book. But Theon is the perfect

this book. But Theon is the perfect character in this book. Theon I would

character in this book. Theon I would say for a good portion of this book

say for a good portion of this book until the dance dragons gets going which

until the dance dragons gets going which is like that last quarter of the book

is like that last quarter of the book Theon carries this book at the beginning

Theon carries this book at the beginning of it. I I think at the beginning until

of it. I I think at the beginning until you get to kind of like the middle area.

you get to kind of like the middle area. Theon carries the book from the moment

Theon carries the book from the moment he starts as a character. When you see

he starts as a character. When you see that Reek

that Reek he is in my opinion the best character

he is in my opinion the best character of the book. So, that is my ranking of

of the book. So, that is my ranking of the POVs in Adanced Dragons. Let me know

the POVs in Adanced Dragons. Let me know what you guys think. Do you guys agree

what you guys think. Do you guys agree with me? Do you guys think maybe a

with me? Do you guys think maybe a character should be higher? Let me know.

character should be higher? Let me know. I'd love to hear you guys' ratings. And

I'd love to hear you guys' ratings. And today's video, we're going to be doing

today's video, we're going to be doing my conclusion, my overall general

my conclusion, my overall general thoughts on A Dance the Dragons. How

thoughts on A Dance the Dragons. How does it measure up to the other four

does it measure up to the other four books of the main series? What are its

books of the main series? What are its strengths, its weaknesses? What is this

strengths, its weaknesses? What is this book really trying to tell? What does

book really trying to tell? What does George want us to come away with in this

George want us to come away with in this book? and things that I took away from

book? and things that I took away from it. So, my overall thoughts, my things

it. So, my overall thoughts, my things that I came to when I got to the end of

that I came to when I got to the end of this book and things that I compiled as

this book and things that I compiled as I was reading it, this book feels like a

I was reading it, this book feels like a more extreme version of a Clash of

more extreme version of a Clash of Kings. In every in every sense, it

Kings. In every in every sense, it follows almost the same format. Clash of

follows almost the same format. Clash of Kings. The people that really like it,

Kings. The people that really like it, they like it because of the high

they like it because of the high moments, some of the best written

moments, some of the best written moments, uh, specifically the Stannis

moments, uh, specifically the Stannis plot line, the Catelyn plotline, uh,

plot line, the Catelyn plotline, uh, Tyrion's plot line, the Arya plotline.

Tyrion's plot line, the Arya plotline. People that don't like this book really

People that don't like this book really hype on really go on. There's some low

hype on really go on. There's some low points of the book. Nerys's plotline.

points of the book. Nerys's plotline. Some people don't really like Arya's

Some people don't really like Arya's plotline in Clash of Kings. Jon is

plotline in Clash of Kings. Jon is probably at his weakest of the entire

probably at his weakest of the entire series. Bran is not so great in this

series. Bran is not so great in this book. So, Clash of Kings to me of the

book. So, Clash of Kings to me of the first three books has the lowest floor

first three books has the lowest floor in terms of it has some of the weaker

in terms of it has some of the weaker chapters. It's prone to having some

chapters. It's prone to having some weaker chapters here and there, but at

weaker chapters here and there, but at the same time, it also has a huge high,

the same time, it also has a huge high, right? Some of the high moments of Clash

right? Some of the high moments of Clash of Kings are really high. Dance of

of Kings are really high. Dance of Dragons is very similar, albeit I think

Dragons is very similar, albeit I think a bit worse. I think the floor for Dance

a bit worse. I think the floor for Dance the Dragons is incredibly low in terms

the Dragons is incredibly low in terms of the quality of a chapter in a general

of the quality of a chapter in a general sense. Like if you went to a random

sense. Like if you went to a random chapter in a Dance with Dragons, the

chapter in a Dance with Dragons, the chance of it being a great chapter or

chance of it being a great chapter or being a bad chapter, there's a wide

being a bad chapter, there's a wide variety there, right? It's either going

variety there, right? It's either going to be one of those two. There's not a

to be one of those two. There's not a lot of Whereas A Feast for Crows I

lot of Whereas A Feast for Crows I talked about, there's a lot of like

talked about, there's a lot of like middle chapters where they're solid

middle chapters where they're solid chapters. They're not bad, but like

chapters. They're not bad, but like they're not like anything crazy. Peace

they're not like anything crazy. Peace for Crows. The one issue I think Peace

for Crows. The one issue I think Peace for Crows has is it doesn't have a ton

for Crows has is it doesn't have a ton of standout chapters that you remember.

of standout chapters that you remember. Dance with Dragons has that. Dance of

Dance with Dragons has that. Dance of Dragons has both of those things. It has

Dragons has both of those things. It has chapters you remember that you really

chapters you remember that you really don't like. Notably, a lot of Tyrion's

don't like. Notably, a lot of Tyrion's plotline, some of Quentyn's worst

plotline, some of Quentyn's worst chapters, but it also has a ton of great

chapters, but it also has a ton of great chapters in there that really stick with

chapters in there that really stick with you. You know, you think about the end

you. You know, you think about the end of Cersei's plotline. You think about

of Cersei's plotline. You think about Theon's whole plotline, Jon's death,

Theon's whole plotline, Jon's death, Nery riding Drogon for the first time. a

Nery riding Drogon for the first time. a lot of standout moments. And so, A Dance

lot of standout moments. And so, A Dance of Dragons, in my opinion, is the most

of Dragons, in my opinion, is the most inconsistent book of the entire series.

inconsistent book of the entire series. It just varies wildly from chapter to

It just varies wildly from chapter to chapter. Whereas, Feast for Crows, I I

chapter. Whereas, Feast for Crows, I I talked about that it was the opposite,

talked about that it was the opposite, right? It was a very consistent. We were

right? It was a very consistent. We were already always like right here. Maybe we

already always like right here. Maybe we would dip a little underneath it or we

would dip a little underneath it or we go a little higher than it, but we never

go a little higher than it, but we never really, you know, varied too much from

really, you know, varied too much from just being a good baseline of that book.

just being a good baseline of that book. I compared it a lot to a game of

I compared it a lot to a game of thrones, even though Game of Thrones I

thrones, even though Game of Thrones I think is better than Peace for Crows.

think is better than Peace for Crows. Again, Dance Dragons very similar to

Again, Dance Dragons very similar to Clash in that regard. Outside of that, I

Clash in that regard. Outside of that, I think Dance Dragons to me is the book

think Dance Dragons to me is the book that has aged the poorest in my opinion.

that has aged the poorest in my opinion. I used to have Dance Dragons as my

I used to have Dance Dragons as my fourth favorite book. I've always kind

fourth favorite book. I've always kind of gone between A Feast for Crows and

of gone between A Feast for Crows and Dance. They are fighting for kind of

Dance. They are fighting for kind of four and five. I always like the first

four and five. I always like the first three better than the last two because

three better than the last two because they kind of feel like, you know, one

they kind of feel like, you know, one story is the first three. They feel very

story is the first three. They feel very connected and then the last two are

connected and then the last two are they're kind of very connected as well.

they're kind of very connected as well. So to me, I look at book five and I'm

So to me, I look at book five and I'm someone that personally didn't really

someone that personally didn't really enjoy the big low moments of this of

enjoy the big low moments of this of this book. And there's a reason that

this book. And there's a reason that when I was going back through this book,

when I was going back through this book, and I I want to point this out. I'm not,

and I I want to point this out. I'm not, you know, hating on A Dance Dragons.

you know, hating on A Dance Dragons. We're trying to look at it from a

We're trying to look at it from a critical point of view. I still really

critical point of view. I still really like A Dance of Dragons. It would still

like A Dance of Dragons. It would still be probably in my top 10 favorite books.

be probably in my top 10 favorite books. But in terms of comparing it to the

But in terms of comparing it to the quality of the other books in the

quality of the other books in the series,

series, I just had a tougher time with this one

I just had a tougher time with this one on a reread, especially in the first

on a reread, especially in the first half. You know, I started doing this

half. You know, I started doing this retrospective back in, I believe, March

retrospective back in, I believe, March or April of last year. So, we're going,

or April of last year. So, we're going, you know, close to a year on doing this

you know, close to a year on doing this retrospective, which is completely

retrospective, which is completely different than A Feast for Crows. threes

different than A Feast for Crows. threes for Crows. I got through it pretty

for Crows. I got through it pretty quick. Um, you know, it was I kind of

quick. Um, you know, it was I kind of banged that out. I didn't take any, you

banged that out. I didn't take any, you know, breaks. I just kind of went

know, breaks. I just kind of went through that pretty quick. A dance was

through that pretty quick. A dance was not that case. I needed a bit of a break

not that case. I needed a bit of a break from the book. You know, when you have

from the book. You know, when you have that first half of the book and you have

that first half of the book and you have so many plot lines that are just not at

so many plot lines that are just not at their best, right? When you get to

their best, right? When you get to Tyrion after he leaves Young Griff,

Tyrion after he leaves Young Griff, almost every time you see Tyrion as a

almost every time you see Tyrion as a POV, you just don't want to read the

POV, you just don't want to read the chapter. And you also have the exiting

chapter. And you also have the exiting of really good POVs in the first half of

of really good POVs in the first half of the book. So there's this weird

the book. So there's this weird transition where yes, when you do get to

transition where yes, when you do get to that like back three4s of the book, it's

that like back three4s of the book, it's just great. Most of the chapters are

just great. Most of the chapters are some of the best of the entire series,

some of the best of the entire series, but it's that transitional period when

but it's that transitional period when you start losing POVs like Davos, who is

you start losing POVs like Davos, who is my third rated POV of the book, Bran,

my third rated POV of the book, Bran, who I was really positive of in this

who I was really positive of in this book. You lose both of those. They don't

book. You lose both of those. They don't show up, right? They just kind of end

show up, right? They just kind of end halfway into this book and you know you

halfway into this book and you know you have Tyrion entering that back half of

have Tyrion entering that back half of his. You have Quentyn who stole a very

his. You have Quentyn who stole a very prominent POV given that there's a lot

prominent POV given that there's a lot of characters in this book that have

of characters in this book that have just around that two to four POV uh

just around that two to four POV uh length or count of chapters and he's

length or count of chapters and he's pretty prominent in the first half

pretty prominent in the first half especially. Um he kind of is weird

especially. Um he kind of is weird because he has two chapters that are

because he has two chapters that are relatively close together in the first

relatively close together in the first half and then he has two two chapters

half and then he has two two chapters very close to the very end of the book.

very close to the very end of the book. So, he's another weird one as well. But

So, he's another weird one as well. But to me, this book when it was in its

to me, this book when it was in its best, the things I love the most and one

best, the things I love the most and one of the themes, one of the things I think

of the themes, one of the things I think George was trying to tell with this

George was trying to tell with this story was when we were looking at

story was when we were looking at characters being put in situations where

characters being put in situations where they have to rule, where they have to be

they have to rule, where they have to be the person in charge of a lot of

the person in charge of a lot of different people and trying to get

different people and trying to get cultures to blend together. My favorite

cultures to blend together. My favorite parts of Daenerys's plotline

parts of Daenerys's plotline specifically was when we were focusing

specifically was when we were focusing on how does Daenerys, you know, deal

on how does Daenerys, you know, deal with this whole freed men and slavery

with this whole freed men and slavery issue, right? You have a foundation, a a

issue, right? You have a foundation, a a city or a I would say more of a land

city or a I would say more of a land mass in Essos that has known slavery for

mass in Essos that has known slavery for so long. How do you transition now to a

so long. How do you transition now to a period in which you uprooted all of that

period in which you uprooted all of that to have people that are all freed? How

to have people that are all freed? How do you deal with those issues? How do

do you deal with those issues? How do you integrate those two cultures? How do

you integrate those two cultures? How do you deal with, you know, slavers rising

you deal with, you know, slavers rising up again and enslaving people like what

up again and enslaving people like what happens basically in Astapore when all

happens basically in Astapore when all those refugees are coming to Marine? How

those refugees are coming to Marine? How does she deal with the plague uh that

does she deal with the plague uh that that's happening right now, the flux? I

that's happening right now, the flux? I loved those aspects of Daenerys a lot.

loved those aspects of Daenerys a lot. It really took the foundations of A

It really took the foundations of A Feast for Crows and Cersei's plotline

Feast for Crows and Cersei's plotline specifically of the struggles of

specifically of the struggles of rulership and heightened it in this

rulership and heightened it in this book. And Jon also has to deal with that

book. And Jon also has to deal with that in a very similar but different way. Jon

in a very similar but different way. Jon as Lord Commander, he has to somehow be

as Lord Commander, he has to somehow be able to manage Stannis and the Queen and

able to manage Stannis and the Queen and their faction throughout this book. He

their faction throughout this book. He has to try and get the Wildlings and and

has to try and get the Wildlings and and the Nights Watch to see eye to eye to

the Nights Watch to see eye to eye to fight this common threat of the others.

fight this common threat of the others. And we see that both of these leaders,

And we see that both of these leaders, Daenerys and Jon fail. By the end of

Daenerys and Jon fail. By the end of this book, both of them fail.

this book, both of them fail. And I think that what George is trying

And I think that what George is trying to show us is how difficult things can

to show us is how difficult things can be. Having ideas are great, but how do

be. Having ideas are great, but how do you integrate them? How do you be a

you integrate them? How do you be a leader? You have to have so many, you

leader? You have to have so many, you know, different skills to make you a

know, different skills to make you a good leader. You have to be able to

good leader. You have to be able to communicate effectively, right? Lead by

communicate effectively, right? Lead by example in a lot of ways. Something that

example in a lot of ways. Something that John, I think, fails to do much later in

John, I think, fails to do much later in the book when he's saying he's going to

the book when he's saying he's going to go to Winterfell and all this stuff when

go to Winterfell and all this stuff when he's a Lord Commander, even though we

he's a Lord Commander, even though we understand those emotions. And so, I

understand those emotions. And so, I think he does a really good job in this

think he does a really good job in this book putting us in that position. The

book putting us in that position. The other main part of this book that I

other main part of this book that I really enjoyed that was a definitely a

really enjoyed that was a definitely a big strength was when we took characters

big strength was when we took characters and we investigated their past, right?

and we investigated their past, right? We we looked at characters like John

We we looked at characters like John Conington and Theon. They're the two

Conington and Theon. They're the two main ones in this book that we're

main ones in this book that we're looking at their past. We're having them

looking at their past. We're having them visit places of where they used to be

visit places of where they used to be when they were younger. So John

when they were younger. So John Conington for instance in his second

Conington for instance in his second chapter when he goes to Griffin's roost

chapter when he goes to Griffin's roost um you know that chapter is great

um you know that chapter is great exploring the decisions he made the

exploring the decisions he made the mistakes he might have made and how

mistakes he might have made and how those change him as a person is

those change him as a person is obviously to me the best POV of this

obviously to me the best POV of this book. He carries especially the early to

book. He carries especially the early to mid part of this book. Every chapter

mid part of this book. Every chapter that he has only improves and gets

that he has only improves and gets better and works on the foundations of

better and works on the foundations of the last. ties perfectly into his Clash

the last. ties perfectly into his Clash of Kings arc and, you know, his whole

of Kings arc and, you know, his whole journey of self-discovery, becoming, you

journey of self-discovery, becoming, you know, a better version of himself,

know, a better version of himself, becoming a a new Theon,

becoming a a new Theon, as you will, as he's leaving this

as you will, as he's leaving this character of Reek and this trauma that

character of Reek and this trauma that he's experienced under Ramsay. His

he's experienced under Ramsay. His chapters are incredibly dark. They're

chapters are incredibly dark. They're fascinating. And by the end of it, you

fascinating. And by the end of it, you feel very fulfilled by what occurs in

feel very fulfilled by what occurs in this, right? You get this idea of Greek,

this, right? You get this idea of Greek, you know, breaking away from Theon. and

you know, breaking away from Theon. and now he's in Stannis's.

now he's in Stannis's. And so a lot of those themes when

And so a lot of those themes when they're talked about are really done

they're talked about are really done extremely well. You know, you also have

extremely well. You know, you also have things like greed all as always. And you

things like greed all as always. And you have, you know, a lot of the other

have, you know, a lot of the other themes that George likes to do.

themes that George likes to do. Anti-war. Those are not nearly as

Anti-war. Those are not nearly as present as say they were maybe in the

present as say they were maybe in the last book. Like anti-war was a big one

last book. Like anti-war was a big one in the last book with Brienne's arc. We

in the last book with Brienne's arc. We don't see Brienne outside of the very

don't see Brienne outside of the very end of a Jaime chapter that we get in

end of a Jaime chapter that we get in this book. We do have also a sense of,

this book. We do have also a sense of, you know, feuds. How do people put their

you know, feuds. How do people put their feuds, you know, away? How do those ties

feuds, you know, away? How do those ties to histories of generations of violence

to histories of generations of violence uh between families? How does that get

uh between families? How does that get resolved? We see that a number of times,

resolved? We see that a number of times, whether that's with the Bracken

whether that's with the Bracken Blackwood issue that we see through

Blackwood issue that we see through Jaime's POV, which is one of my favorite

Jaime's POV, which is one of my favorite chapters of the book, of course, but we

chapters of the book, of course, but we only get one Jaime chapter, which is

only get one Jaime chapter, which is unfortunate. But learning this history

unfortunate. But learning this history between the black the Blackwoods and the

between the black the Blackwoods and the Brackens which they seems like neither

Brackens which they seems like neither side really has the full truth of what

side really has the full truth of what actually occurred and this has caused

actually occurred and this has caused violence between the two families for

violence between the two families for years now. We see the same idea with the

years now. We see the same idea with the wildlings and also the nights watchmen.

wildlings and also the nights watchmen. We see that between northern houses in

We see that between northern houses in the north for instance. We see this with

the north for instance. We see this with the slavers and the freed men and

the slavers and the freed men and marine. It's a very present theme,

marine. It's a very present theme, right? Looking at how families and

right? Looking at how families and different people have had rivalries and

different people have had rivalries and issues with each other and how that

issues with each other and how that affects their decision-making. We kind

affects their decision-making. We kind of see that with the Dorne plot as well

of see that with the Dorne plot as well when we get the Ara Ario Hoda chapter in

when we get the Ara Ario Hoda chapter in this book. So, there's a lot of those

this book. So, there's a lot of those themes that I think that when he focuses

themes that I think that when he focuses on those things, he does a really good

on those things, he does a really good job. you know, talking about some of the

job. you know, talking about some of the things that, you know, going back to

things that, you know, going back to what I really, you know, did not like in

what I really, you know, did not like in this book is

this book is George definitely in A Feast for Crows

George definitely in A Feast for Crows and A Dance of Dragons had much more of

and A Dance of Dragons had much more of a focus on filling the world out, the

a focus on filling the world out, the world building, and I think it's not as

world building, and I think it's not as noticeable in the Feast for Crows

noticeable in the Feast for Crows because when he's introducing these

because when he's introducing these other plot lines like the Dorne plot,

other plot lines like the Dorne plot, like the Greyjoy plot, they serve a

like the Greyjoy plot, they serve a purpose to the overall narrative and

purpose to the overall narrative and they also forward the plot while also

they also forward the plot while also building new characters. And one thing I

building new characters. And one thing I didn't like in this book is, you know,

didn't like in this book is, you know, it seemed like George didn't manage that

it seemed like George didn't manage that as well in this book. Tyrion to me is

as well in this book. Tyrion to me is the perfect example. Tyrion, you know,

the perfect example. Tyrion, you know, his whole journey is basically him

his whole journey is basically him journeying to Meereen. A number of

journeying to Meereen. A number of characters doing that in this book.

characters doing that in this book. Think about how many characters are

Think about how many characters are trying to reach, you know, Daenerys in

trying to reach, you know, Daenerys in this book. You know, you have a

this book. You know, you have a character like Quentyn whose entire

character like Quentyn whose entire journey was foreshadowed in the last

journey was foreshadowed in the last book with Arian and how he's going to

book with Arian and how he's going to try and fulfill this contract that was

try and fulfill this contract that was between Viseris and also Arian. So, it's

between Viseris and also Arian. So, it's kind of different terms and so Quentyn

kind of different terms and so Quentyn has this little journey of trying to get

has this little journey of trying to get to Meereen. That plot line is very

to Meereen. That plot line is very convenient. Uh Quentyn himself isn't

convenient. Uh Quentyn himself isn't that very isn't that interesting of a

that very isn't that interesting of a character. his plot line isn't original

character. his plot line isn't original given the fact that we already have

given the fact that we already have Tyrion trying to make his way to Marine.

Tyrion trying to make his way to Marine. Later on we have Victarion trying to

Later on we have Victarion trying to make his way to Meereine. And so, you

make his way to Meereine. And so, you know, Quentyn unfortunately is of those

know, Quentyn unfortunately is of those three plot lines by far the most boring.

three plot lines by far the most boring. Uh, and he's not a good character. At

Uh, and he's not a good character. At least with Tyrion, he's a good

least with Tyrion, he's a good character. So, we care about him more

character. So, we care about him more than we do with Quentyn. Victarion's

than we do with Quentyn. Victarion's fun. So, the the thing I'm trying to get

fun. So, the the thing I'm trying to get at though is the point is like a lot of

at though is the point is like a lot of these chapters feel like, oh, okay, we

these chapters feel like, oh, okay, we want to see more of Atlantis. This is

want to see more of Atlantis. This is George's time to show us more about how

George's time to show us more about how these other cities work. And the problem

these other cities work. And the problem with that, like that isn't a bad premise

with that, like that isn't a bad premise when you think about it, but the idea

when you think about it, but the idea here is just not very good in execution,

here is just not very good in execution, right? It's a lot of walking around, you

right? It's a lot of walking around, you know, and aimlessly. or it's Tyrion with

know, and aimlessly. or it's Tyrion with Jorah and they don't bounce off each

Jorah and they don't bounce off each other particularly well and so it's not

other particularly well and so it's not very interesting to read in general. So

very interesting to read in general. So there's that aspect of it that I think

there's that aspect of it that I think really holds this book down that there

really holds this book down that there is a lot of chapters that the plot isn't

is a lot of chapters that the plot isn't moving all that much. Character

moving all that much. Character development isn't forwarding that much

development isn't forwarding that much really and it's just feels like world

really and it's just feels like world building and just filling out the world.

building and just filling out the world. Uh, it feels like kind of stuff you

Uh, it feels like kind of stuff you would see maybe in Fire and Blood, but

would see maybe in Fire and Blood, but with Fire and Blood, it makes more sense

with Fire and Blood, it makes more sense because Fire and Blood is meant to be a

because Fire and Blood is meant to be a history book. It's meant to like fill

history book. It's meant to like fill out the world and history of Westeros

out the world and history of Westeros and all that. It just doesn't feel all

and all that. It just doesn't feel all that natural a lot of the times or it's

that natural a lot of the times or it's not very interesting or compelling to

not very interesting or compelling to read in A Song of Ice and Fire,

read in A Song of Ice and Fire, especially in Dance Dragons. So, you

especially in Dance Dragons. So, you know, there's that part of it that I I

know, there's that part of it that I I really didn't enjoy all that much in

really didn't enjoy all that much in this book. I I think that, you know,

this book. I I think that, you know, this book, a lot of its problems really

this book, a lot of its problems really just rely in kind of Essos. I think the

just rely in kind of Essos. I think the Essos side of the story in this book

Essos side of the story in this book wasn't very good. Uh, for the most part,

wasn't very good. Uh, for the most part, like Daenerys is solid. I think that

like Daenerys is solid. I think that she's definitely a a middle of the pack

she's definitely a a middle of the pack POV. I had her ranked like 10th, which

POV. I had her ranked like 10th, which sounds bad, you know, given how many

sounds bad, you know, given how many chapters she has. She has 10 chapters in

chapters she has. She has 10 chapters in this book. But at the same time, I mean,

this book. But at the same time, I mean, to me personally, she was solid. She

to me personally, she was solid. She just never really was that great outside

just never really was that great outside of one chapter. I I think Daenerys 9

of one chapter. I I think Daenerys 9 where she rides Strogon fantastic

where she rides Strogon fantastic chapter. I just felt very mixed about

chapter. I just felt very mixed about Daenerys's plotline throughout

Daenerys's plotline throughout mainly because I think the love interest

mainly because I think the love interest plotline just to me I just didn't enjoy

plotline just to me I just didn't enjoy reading it because of how much focus is

reading it because of how much focus is on that. Even not even in Daenerys's

on that. Even not even in Daenerys's chapters like other people's chapters

chapters like other people's chapters like I mentioned with Daenerys Daenerys

like I mentioned with Daenerys Daenerys like she was fine in this book. I I

like she was fine in this book. I I think that it's better than A Clash of

think that it's better than A Clash of Kings in terms of her plotline, but I

Kings in terms of her plotline, but I think Storm of Swords and Game of

think Storm of Swords and Game of Thrones are just miles better than her

Thrones are just miles better than her in this book. Unfortunately, I think Jon

in this book. Unfortunately, I think Jon and the North is where this book shines

and the North is where this book shines and also the Feast for Crows characters,

and also the Feast for Crows characters, they get POVs in this book because one

they get POVs in this book because one thing that Dance with Dragons gets that

thing that Dance with Dragons gets that that unfortunately for Feast for Crows

that unfortunately for Feast for Crows doesn't get and one of the reasons Fast

doesn't get and one of the reasons Fast for Crows to me doesn't really touch the

for Crows to me doesn't really touch the first three books is because of a lot of

first three books is because of a lot of the conclusions aren't really like, wow,

the conclusions aren't really like, wow, those are great chapters, best of the

those are great chapters, best of the series. A lot of them aren't like that,

series. A lot of them aren't like that, you know, outside of maybe Brienne. But

you know, outside of maybe Brienne. But when you have, you know, for instance,

when you have, you know, for instance, Cersei's walk of atonement in this book,

Cersei's walk of atonement in this book, which is by far one of the best chapters

which is by far one of the best chapters in this book and of the series, you

in this book and of the series, you know, it gets basically the conclusion

know, it gets basically the conclusion of the feast arc, right? Cersei comes in

of the feast arc, right? Cersei comes in for two banger chapters and fulfills her

for two banger chapters and fulfills her feast arc. And, you know, we get into

feast arc. And, you know, we get into Winds of Winter. So, Dance Dragons

Winds of Winter. So, Dance Dragons definitely has the luxury of getting to

definitely has the luxury of getting to finish off a lot of the stuff that

finish off a lot of the stuff that George spent an entire book building in

George spent an entire book building in A Feast for Crows. you know, Arya's, you

A Feast for Crows. you know, Arya's, you know, storyline, her plot, her two

know, storyline, her plot, her two chatters that she has in this book are

chatters that she has in this book are far better than they are than in Feast

far better than they are than in Feast for Crows with her three. So, you know,

for Crows with her three. So, you know, you have Arya's conclusion is solid in

you have Arya's conclusion is solid in this book. You know, the North stuff is

this book. You know, the North stuff is great. Jon's good. Theon's good. Asha is

great. Jon's good. Theon's good. Asha is great. Stannis's plotline is fantastic.

great. Stannis's plotline is fantastic. So, you have a lot of really good plot

So, you have a lot of really good plot lines, you know, in the north and, you

lines, you know, in the north and, you know, in those other characters that are

know, in those other characters that are coming back from Future Scarion as well.

coming back from Future Scarion as well. It's just the ones that have such a

It's just the ones that have such a heavy focus in Essos. You know, Quentyn,

heavy focus in Essos. You know, Quentyn, Tyrion, Daenerys, those three characters

Tyrion, Daenerys, those three characters between them, they have a ton of

between them, they have a ton of chapters. Like that's 20 26 chapters,

chapters. Like that's 20 26 chapters, you know, and you know, if I was to pick

you know, and you know, if I was to pick and choose out of those, I'd say, you

and choose out of those, I'd say, you know, maybe four or five of them would

know, maybe four or five of them would be in my top 30 to 35 of this book.

be in my top 30 to 35 of this book. That's not great. And so I think where

That's not great. And so I think where this book struggled was by far I would

this book struggled was by far I would say some of the more main plot lines of

say some of the more main plot lines of the book. Daenerys, Tyrion, even though

the book. Daenerys, Tyrion, even though I think Daenerys is fine again. So, you

I think Daenerys is fine again. So, you know, long story short, you know, when

know, long story short, you know, when looking at at this book specifically, I

looking at at this book specifically, I think your strengths were I think there

think your strengths were I think there were some really good themes that George

were some really good themes that George covered that I talked about earlier in

covered that I talked about earlier in this video. I think the North plot was a

this video. I think the North plot was a huge strength. I think the Feast for

huge strength. I think the Feast for Crows POVs that came back in this book,

Crows POVs that came back in this book, great. I think a lot of those highs of

great. I think a lot of those highs of this book were really high. Like this

this book were really high. Like this book ends on a fantastic note. I think

book ends on a fantastic note. I think if you ask casual fans, people that have

if you ask casual fans, people that have only read the books once or maybe twice.

only read the books once or maybe twice. A Dance Dragons I think would be more

A Dance Dragons I think would be more highly rated than me for instance,

highly rated than me for instance, because this book ends so well. Now, it

because this book ends so well. Now, it doesn't end perfectly. I'll talk about

doesn't end perfectly. I'll talk about that in the negatives, but it does end

that in the negatives, but it does end really, really good. like, you know, you

really, really good. like, you know, you have Quentyn's death, you have Barrist,

have Quentyn's death, you have Barrist, you know, they're about they're about to

you know, they're about they're about to fight the slavers, you have Jon's death,

fight the slavers, you have Jon's death, Theon and Asha, you know, reconciling.

Theon and Asha, you know, reconciling. There's really a lot of great payoffs

There's really a lot of great payoffs that's been built up throughout this

that's been built up throughout this book. You know, Cersei's end, Arya's

book. You know, Cersei's end, Arya's end. So, a lot of great stuff that ends

end. So, a lot of great stuff that ends on a really high moment that makes you

on a really high moment that makes you excited and wanting to read, especially

excited and wanting to read, especially um the last chapter of the epilogue.

um the last chapter of the epilogue. Kevin, the I think the best epilogue of

Kevin, the I think the best epilogue of of the story outside of maybe Daenerys,

of the story outside of maybe Daenerys, even though I know it's not an epilogue,

even though I know it's not an epilogue, you know, it's not Daenerys is not the

you know, it's not Daenerys is not the epilogue character, you know, doesn't

epilogue character, you know, doesn't carry on the tradition of the story, but

carry on the tradition of the story, but Daenerys has the best ending chapter, I

Daenerys has the best ending chapter, I think, of all the books, but Kevin is

think, of all the books, but Kevin is second. And that chapter leads you on

second. And that chapter leads you on such a high note to wanting Winds of

such a high note to wanting Winds of Winter. And so I I did this as well, I

Winter. And so I I did this as well, I think, in my I think it was my my POV

think, in my I think it was my my POV rankings that this book ends so well

rankings that this book ends so well that you remember it. You remember A

that you remember it. You remember A Dance Dragons more than you do A Feast

Dance Dragons more than you do A Feast for Crows if you've only read the books

for Crows if you've only read the books probably once or twice and I think it

probably once or twice and I think it sticks with you more. So I I I do the

sticks with you more. So I I I do the season six effect. Season 6 is not a

season six effect. Season 6 is not a good season of Game of Thrones, but

good season of Game of Thrones, but because it ends on episode 9, which is

because it ends on episode 9, which is Battle of the Bastards, then episode 10

Battle of the Bastards, then episode 10 with all the stuff, Deceptive of Bor,

with all the stuff, Deceptive of Bor, Cersei's plot line, some of the wrapping

Cersei's plot line, some of the wrapping up of some of the other plot lines,

up of some of the other plot lines, which are really great, Jon Snow's

which are really great, Jon Snow's parentage reveal, all of those things.

parentage reveal, all of those things. So, because season 6 ends on such a high

So, because season 6 ends on such a high note, most people will say that season 6

note, most people will say that season 6 was better than season five, for

was better than season five, for instance, right? because of the way

instance, right? because of the way season 6 ended. Where in reality,

season 6 ended. Where in reality, I personally like season 5 better than

I personally like season 5 better than season 6 because season 5 is more

season 6 because season 5 is more consistently has good quality moments

consistently has good quality moments outside of it all just being in like the

outside of it all just being in like the last like maybe episode or two of a

last like maybe episode or two of a season. And that's kind of how Dance

season. And that's kind of how Dance Dragons feels with Fast for Crows. Like

Dragons feels with Fast for Crows. Like Feast Feast for Crows is more steadily

Feast Feast for Crows is more steadily good throughout the entire book, whereas

good throughout the entire book, whereas dance is all over the place. It varies

dance is all over the place. It varies heavily from chapter to chapter. So

heavily from chapter to chapter. So yeah, that's kind of my my strengths for

yeah, that's kind of my my strengths for this book. I think it has incredible

this book. I think it has incredible highs. Some of the plot lines are great

highs. Some of the plot lines are great in this book. Some of the highest

in this book. Some of the highest moments of the series. Some of the

moments of the series. Some of the themes that are brought to the table

themes that are brought to the table were fantastic. Negatives of the book

were fantastic. Negatives of the book really do include, you know, Tyrion and

really do include, you know, Tyrion and Quentyn. I would say the Essos plot in

Quentyn. I would say the Essos plot in general uh could have been a lot better,

general uh could have been a lot better, could have been condensed more. I think

could have been condensed more. I think that really would have helped this book

that really would have helped this book as a whole. Again, incredible lows. The

as a whole. Again, incredible lows. The the floor of this book is much lower

the floor of this book is much lower than I think the rest of the series. I

than I think the rest of the series. I can't think of any other book in the

can't think of any other book in the series that has this amount of chapters

series that has this amount of chapters that I would say is probably in the top

that I would say is probably in the top 10 worst chapters of the entire series.

10 worst chapters of the entire series. That's not great in this book. I think

That's not great in this book. I think you know something I haven't mentioned

you know something I haven't mentioned some of the finales of the characters

some of the finales of the characters get cut off.

get cut off. Battle of ice, battle of fire, probably

Battle of ice, battle of fire, probably the battle of steel we should have seen

the battle of steel we should have seen with the stuff at Storm's End. All that

with the stuff at Storm's End. All that stuff gets cut out of this book. And so

stuff gets cut out of this book. And so you have some characters that end on

you have some characters that end on really weird notes like Asha's been

really weird notes like Asha's been building up to this battle with the

building up to this battle with the Boltons the entire book and that gets

Boltons the entire book and that gets cut off as soon as she meets Theon.

cut off as soon as she meets Theon. Really weird way to end Asha even though

Really weird way to end Asha even though she's really good throughout the book.

she's really good throughout the book. Weird way to end it. Barristen, albeit,

Weird way to end it. Barristen, albeit, you know, I I really like his POVs at

you know, I I really like his POVs at the very end of the book. He ends on

the very end of the book. He ends on another weird note. It seems like with

another weird note. It seems like with Daenerys, we've been building up to this

Daenerys, we've been building up to this conflict with the slavers the entire

conflict with the slavers the entire time. That never happens in this book.

time. That never happens in this book. it gets pushed over to the next book.

it gets pushed over to the next book. You know, John Conington and the young

You know, John Conington and the young Griff plotline seemed like it still had

Griff plotline seemed like it still had more to do in this book and kind of gets

more to do in this book and kind of gets cut off, which is unfortunate given it's

cut off, which is unfortunate given it's one of my favorite plot lines going into

one of my favorite plot lines going into the next book. And so I think this book

the next book. And so I think this book and so I think this book where it

and so I think this book where it concluded some characters incredibly

concluded some characters incredibly well, like best of the series, others

well, like best of the series, others you still are really anticipating them,

you still are really anticipating them, but in this book as a whole, they don't

but in this book as a whole, they don't conclude that great. It feels kind of

conclude that great. It feels kind of weird where George, you know, placed

weird where George, you know, placed these characters to to stop their story.

these characters to to stop their story. And so, you know, getting to the end of

And so, you know, getting to the end of this conclusion and, you know, all of

this conclusion and, you know, all of that, I I really want to say I was very

that, I I really want to say I was very critical of a Dance of Dragon. I think

critical of a Dance of Dragon. I think there's more to talk about in terms of

there's more to talk about in terms of what A Dance Dragons does well and what

what A Dance Dragons does well and what it doesn't. And, you know, it's very

it doesn't. And, you know, it's very different from Feast for Crows where I

different from Feast for Crows where I feel like a Fast for Crows, it's a

feel like a Fast for Crows, it's a consistent book throughout. So, there's

consistent book throughout. So, there's not a lot of like super huge negatives

not a lot of like super huge negatives to talk about with that book. Whereas

to talk about with that book. Whereas this one, there definitely is. I want

this one, there definitely is. I want you guys to know, regardless of what

you guys to know, regardless of what your opinion is of this book, I know a

your opinion is of this book, I know a lot of people like this book, like in

lot of people like this book, like in their top three, I do like this book. I

their top three, I do like this book. I I love this book, but it has flaws. I

I love this book, but it has flaws. I can love something and still point out

can love something and still point out things I didn't enjoy about it or things

things I didn't enjoy about it or things that had flaws in it, right? You know, I

that had flaws in it, right? You know, I love the Star Wars prequels. I can

love the Star Wars prequels. I can realize those have flaws in

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YouTube Transcript:A Dance with Dragons Explained | Full Book Summary & Analysis