Even if you’ve never read his works, you likely know who George R.R. Martin is. Martin is the critically-acclaimed author of the A Song of Ice and Fire series, which was later adapted into the Emmy Award-winning HBO series Game of Thrones. As a result, he has become a household name to many.
However, did you know that George R.R. Martin has actually written numerous other works, including novels, short stories, screenplays, and children’s books? In today’s installment of Bookstr trivia, we’re naming five of the novels Martin wrote prior to his best-known series.
1. Dying of the Light
by George R.R. Martin
After being summoned by a whisperjewel to Worlorn, Dirk t’Larien reencounters Gwen Delvano. Now, Gwen is quite changed from the woman he once loved, and she also happens to be with another man. Not only that, but Worlorn is also very different from how Dirk pictured.
A dying planet plunged into eternal darkness, many secrets and dangers lie within. Gwen needs Dirk’s protection, and he will do anything to keep her safe. But soon, it becomes impossible for Dirk to decipher the difference between his allies and his enemies. Further, this dangerous love triangle is headed towards destruction.
2. Fevre Dream
by George R.R. Martin
Lately, riverboat captain Abner Marsh has not been without struggle. In the icy winter of 1857, all but one of Marsh’s fleet were wiped out. Not only that, but Marsh won’t be able to earn back on his investment for over a decade. As a result, when he receives a lucrative offer from the pale and wealthy aristocrat Joshua York, Marsh can’t refuse.
Joining the maiden voyage of Fevre Dream, Marsh begins to realize something is amiss. This mission is more sinister—and perhaps more noble—than his most fantastic nightmare.
3. The Armageddon Rag
by George R.R. Martin
Since the ’60s, underground journalist Sandy Blair has come a long way from his radical roots. That is, until now. After the murder of a rock promoter who made millions with the band Nazgûl, Blair can’t help but investigate.
Soon, Blair discovers that a new messiah has resurrected the Nazgûl. However, the band’s maddening new rhythm is more than Blair anticipated—a requiem of mind control, demonism, and death. Can Blair alter this apocalyptic tune before everyone else begins to follow the beat?
4. Tuf Voyaging
by George R.R. Martin
An honest space-trader with a love of cats, Haviland Tuf also happens to be the proud owner of a seedship. This seedship is the last remaining of Earth’s legendary Ecological Engineering Corps, and villains would do anything to get their hands on it. Thankfully, the universe’s most powerful weapon is in good hands—hands that now have the godlike ability to control the genetic makeup of thousands of creatures.
Armed with this equipment, Tuf sets out to resolve numerous problems that human settlers have created across the galaxies. On his journey, he tackles hostile monsters, a population addicted to procreation, and a devilish dictator who will do anything to have his way.
5. Windhaven
by George R.R. Martin and Lisa Tuttle
Throughout the scattered islands that comprise the water world of Windhaven, no one is held in higher regard than the silver-winged flyers. These figures traverse oceans, through storms and winds, to bring news, gossip, stories, and songs to the awaiting citizens.
Since she was a little girl, Maris of Amberly has dreamed of soaring throughout the Windhaven skies. However, one can only become a silver-winged flyer through inheritance, and Maris is a fisherman’s daughter.
Not one to back down from a challenge, Maris challenges this tradition, demanding that flyers instead be selected by merit. But even after winning this battle, her troubles are not over. Revolution lies around the corner, and soon, Maris will have to make the ultimate sacrifice.
If you’re interested in more George R.R. Martin content, click here for some awesome quotes from his A Song of Ice and Fire series.