August is here, and with it comes the excitement of diving into a new stack of books that promise adventure, intrigue, and the rich worlds only epic fantasy can deliver. This month, Iâm particularly thrilled about the titles Iâve chosen – theyâre not just books; theyâre the beginning of a new chapter in my reading journey. Let me share with you whatâs on my August TBR pile, and hopefully, you’ll be inspired to join me in exploring these fascinating realms.
đ The Rise of the Dragon by George R.R. Martin
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This lavish visual historyâfeaturing over 180 all-new illustrationsâis a stunning introduction to House Targaryen, the iconic family at the heart of HBOâs Game of Thrones prequel series, House of the Dragon.
For hundreds of years, the Targaryens sat the Iron Throne of Westeros while their dragons ruled the skies. The story of the only family of dragonlords to survive Valyriaâs Doom is a tale of twisty politics, alliances and betrayals, and acts both noble and craven. The Rise of the Dragon chronicles the creation and rise of Targaryen power in Westeros, covering the history first told in George R. R. Martinâs epic Fire & Blood, from Aegon Targaryenâs conquest of Westeros through to the infamous Dance of the Dragonsâthe bloody civil war that nearly undid Targaryen rule for good.
Packed with all-new artwork, the Targaryensâand their dragonsâcome vividly to life in this deluxe reference book. Perfect for fans steeped in the lore of Westeros, as well as those who first meet the Targaryens in the HBO series House of the Dragon, The Rise of the Dragon provides a must-have overview for anyone looking to learn more about the most powerful family in Westeros.
Kicking off my August reads is “The Rise of the Dragon” by George R.R. Martin. This book, a detailed illustrated history of the Targaryen family, delves deep into the lore that has captivated fans of the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series. The intricate politics, the majestic dragons, and the complex characters of House Targaryen are all brought to life with stunning visuals and Martinâs masterful storytelling. Iâm eager to immerse myself in the world of Westeros once again and uncover the secrets and stories that shape the history of this iconic family.
đ„ Fire and Blood by George R.R. Martin
Centuries before the events of A Game of Thrones, House Targaryenâthe only family of dragonlords to survive the Doom of Valyriaâtook up residence on Dragonstone. Fire and Blood begins their tale with the legendary Aegon the Conqueror, creator of the Iron Throne, and goes on to recount the generations of Targaryens who fought to hold that iconic seat, all the way up to the civil war that nearly tore their dynasty apart.
What really happened during the Dance of the Dragons? Why did it become so deadly to visit Valyria after the Doom? What is the origin of Daenerysâs three dragon eggs? These are but a few of the questions answered in this essential chronicle, as related by a learned maester of the Citadel and featuring more than eighty all-new black-and-white illustrations by artist Doug Wheatley. Readers have glimpsed small parts of this narrative in such volumes as The World of Ice & Fire, but now, for the first time, the full tapestry of Targaryen history is revealed.
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Continuing with my Targaryen obsession, “Fire and Blood” is next on my list. This tome offers a comprehensive history of the Targaryen dynasty, from Aegon the Conqueror to the civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons. Martin’s narrative provides a rich tapestry of the events that forged the Seven Kingdoms, filled with battles, betrayals, and the ever-present threat of dragonfire. Itâs like reading a vivid, enthralling history book about a world that feels incredibly real. I canât wait to delve into the political intrigue and legendary tales that make this series so compelling.
đ§ The Silmarillion by J.R.R Tolkien
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The forerunner to The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion fills in the background which lies behind the more popular work, and gives the earlier history of Middle-earth, introducing some of the key characters.
The Silmarillion is an account of the Elder Days, of the First Age of Tolkienâs world. It is the ancient drama to which the characters in The Lord of the Rings look back, and in whose events some of them such as Elrond and Galadriel took part. The tales of The Silmarillion are set in an age when Morgoth, the first Dark Lord, dwelt in Middle-Earth, and the High Elves made war upon him for the recovery of the Silmarils, the jewels containing the pure light of Valinor.
Included in the book are several shorter works. The Ainulindale is a myth of the Creation and in the Valaquenta the nature and powers of each of the gods is described. The Akallabeth recounts the downfall of the great island kingdom of NĂșmenor at the end of the Second Age and Of the Rings of Power tells of the great events at the end of the Third Age, as narrated in The Lord of the Rings.
Switching gears to another master of fantasy, J.R.R. Tolkienâs “The Silmarillion” is also on my TBR pile. Often regarded as the Bible of Middle-earth, this book presents the mythopoeic stories that set the foundation for “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings”. From the creation of EĂ€ to the epic tales of the First Age, every page is steeped in the rich lore that only Tolkien can craft. Iâm ready to explore the origins of Middle-earth, meet the valiant Elves and the powerful Ainur, and uncover the deep-seated roots of the world that has enchanted readers for decades.
âïž The Red Queens War Series by Mark Lawrence
Iâm a liar and a cheat and a coward, but I will never, ever, let a friend down. Unless of course not letting them down requires honesty, fair play or bravery.
The Red Queen is dreaded by the kings of the Broken Empire as they dread no other.
Her grandson Jalan Kendeth â womaniser, gambler and all-out cad â is tenth in line to the throne. While his grandmother shapes the destiny of millions, Prince Jalan pursues his debauched pleasures.
Until, that is, he gets entangled with Snorri ver Snagason, a huge Norse axeman and dragged against his will to the icy northâŠ
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Finally, Iâm diving into “The Red Queenâs War” series by Mark Lawrence. This trilogy – starting with “Prince of Fools” – is a mix of dark humor, adventure, and complex characters. The series follows Prince Jalan Kendeth, a charming yet cowardly prince, and Snorri ver Snagason, a fierce Viking warrior, on a journey filled with danger and dark magic. Lawrenceâs writing is sharp, witty, and gripping, making this series a perfect blend of fun and tension. Iâm looking forward to experiencing the wild escapades and the unexpected twists that Lawrence is known for.
As I embark on this adventure, I invite you to join me. Whether youâre a seasoned fantasy reader or just looking to dip your toes into new worlds, these books offer a perfect escape. Letâs lose ourselves in the epic tales, complex characters, and breathtaking worlds that these master storytellers have created. Happy reading, and may your August be filled with the magic and wonder that only a great book can provide!
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