A Game of Thrones

I finished A Game of Thrones. I did voice my initial thoughts, but ended up finishing the book. Responses to that post fell into two categories: People either did not remember the rampant misogyny, or did not like the book.

It's been a while since I've read an epic fantasy, and I frankly found this one uncomfortable. A lot of awful things happen in this book. There is gore, and there is a lot of grief from the perspective of every character. But I think that the women characters are treated the worst, by far.

( Spoilers for the first book )

Anyway, the books are intricately plotted enough that I am interested in seeing what happens. I've borrowed the other three from my brother-in-law, and will keep reading them. The books are okay, but I don't think they'll ever be favorites? If anyone cares to convince me, feel free.

Of the things I do like, they include: the direwolves, the House of Roses-esque intricacy, the shifting perspectives. The willingness to examine what happens to people after the battle is over - there's not a lot of glorifying of the battle itself, which is a welcome change from most mainstream fantasy novels.

Umm, and I'm also waiting for the gay sex to happen up at the Wall with the Men of the Watch.

I am unspoiled for plot developments/deaths in future books, though so please don't reveal anything!

Probable spoilers for the first book are in the comments.