Author George R.R. Martin‘s book series A Song of Ice and Fire got a major boast in popularity thanks its hit television adaptation, HBO’s Game Of Thrones. The fifth installment in the saga, A Dance with Dragons, which was released this Summer, was one of the most highly anticipated and well-received books of 2011.

Now, the author has posted an excerpt at his website from The Winds of Winter, the next book in the series!

Before you give it a read, note that it contains SPOILERS. According to Tor, “A character’s fate from Dance With Dragons is fully revealed, and a much-anticipated showdown occurs.” Tor also has a house sigil in their post, which they say will give you a clue as to which character it involves.

Ok, you ready? Then head on over to Martin’s site to read the excerpt!

[Source via Tor]