Long ago, in a time forgotten, a preternatural event threw the seasons out of balance. In a land where summers can last decades and winters a lifetime, trouble is brewing. The cold is returning, and in the frozen wastes to the north of Winterfell, sinister forces are massing beyond the kingdom's protective walls. Sweeping from a harsh land of cold to a summertime kingdom of epicurean plenty, A Game of Thrones tells a tale of lords and ladies, soldiers and sorcerers, assassins and bastards who come together in a time of grim omens. Included in this unique and limited edition package: A handsome slipcase edition featuring a linen slipcase and book cover, foil stamped original design, acid-free paper and a satin ribbon marker. A special conversation with George R. R. Martin. The author discusses his writing influences, his own style, his characters and their perspectives, having his vision come to the screen, and more! Meet the Writers interview with George R. R. Martin, in which the author talks about A Dance With Dragons, the fifth book in the Song of Ice and Fire series and a love of reading. George R. R. Martin answers questions about the new HBO original series A Game of Thrones. A special full-color preview, including original character sketches, of A Game of Thrones: The Graphic Novel, No. 1-based on George R. R. Martin's novel of the same name.