I read part one of the Song of Ice and Fire in a bad translation, and that less than positive experience meant that it was some years before I was inclined to start on part 2. Just as I was beginning to think about that, a friend lent me the book. In the beginning the huge cast and multiple story lines is a bit intimidating but that soon settled down. I must say that I really liked the way that each chapter is written from the viewpoint of a different character, that is done exceptionally well. I could have done without all the blood and gore, but that goes with the genre, I suppose. Bottom line is that although it was so long that I'll need a break before starting on part 3, I definitely will read it.