A Game of Thrones by George R. Martin

An epic fantasy novel set in 'medieval' times in a landscape somewhat like England and the European continent.  There are kings and queens, lords, ladies, knights and tournaments and plot twists galore as well as threats from giants, ogres, zombie-like creatures and other fantastical beasts.  One of the best lines, from a villainous Queen, is 'In the Game of Thrones, you either win or you die.'  That about sums it up.  Martin sets the scene well, but some of the plot manipulations are obvious, i.e., placing a character in an unusual circumstance just so they can overhear something they shouldn't.  There are several likable characters and plenty of juicy villains. The countryside is also nearing the end of a decades long summer, and preparing for the onslaught of the dreadful winter, which may last for years and unleash strange creatures.  The story shifts from one character to another in nearly every chapter, so there are plenty of cliffhangers. By the end of this first in a five-part series, the warring factions are at a bit of a stalemate. A real page-turner as well as an HBO success.  835 pages.