# 20. Game of Thrones: The Horrifying True Story Behind A Song of Ice and Fire

An episode of [The Book Club](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/podcast/1876049295), 29 Jun 2026, 1 h 27 min.

Audio: https://traffic.megaphone.fm/GLT3989077324.mp3

What real-world historical events and figures inspired the political conflicts in Westeros? Is George R. R. Martin's A Game of Thrones better than J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings? And, is it likely that George R.R. Martin will ever finish the A Song of Ice and Fire series? Join Dominic Sandbrook and Tabitha Syrett as they delve into the fascinating story behind the writing of A Game of Thrones, the world it was born of, and the novel itself. You can order A Game of Thrones and explore our favourite Folio books at https://foliosociety.com/thebookclub Email us: thebookclub@goalhanger.com For analysis, book recommendations and more, sign up to our newsletter, Book Club Notes, introduced weekly by Tabby or Dominic. Sign up at: thebookclubhq.com Instagram: @bookclubpodhq TikTok: @thebookclubpodhq X: @bookclubpodhq YouTube: @TheBookClubPodHQ Senior Producer: Nicole Maslen Assistant Producer: Alfie Norris Social Producer: Harry Balden Video Editor: Jack Meek Executive Producer: Dom Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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