'Winds of Winter' update: George R.R. Martin says he's still writing; Celebrates 20th anniversary of first book

Fans who are eagerly waiting for the release for the book “Winds of Winter” will be disappointed to know that George R.R. Martin is still writing. The author celebrated the 20^th anniversary of the launch of the first book in “A Song of Ice and Fire” series titled “Game of Thrones” on Aug. 1.

In a post on his official blog, Martin said that he is still working on the sixth book in the series and doesn’t have any announcements on that front yet. The author had hoped to have the book ready before the “Game of Thrones” Season 6 premiere, but he was unable to meet this deadline he set for himself, allowing the TV series to spoil some of the elements of the plot.

Martin recounted how his first book in “A Song of Ice and Fire” was published on August 1, twenty years ago. The “Game of Thrones” book had a big glossy silver foil hardcover when it first hit bookstores. The book has been in print ever since. Although it didn’t have a “spectacular” start, the books went on to top the charts across the globe and now the fans are eagerly waiting for the next book “Winds of Winter.”

The excitement for the next book is especially high now, because the HBO TV series has gained in popularity over the years and more fans discover the books every day. The popularity of the franchise has led to games, miniatures, slot machines, pinball machines, cosplayers, dolls, action figures, coins, t-shirts and graphic novels.

Celebrating the 20^th anniversary, Martin launched a new book. While the fans wait for “Winds of Winter,” they can pick up a special illustrated edition of “A Game of Thrones” novel that will be released on Oct. 18. The series was initially supposed to be only three books, but the fantasy world the author created has grown so big that some wonder if Martin will be able to finish his story with the seventh book.