Aloysius plows on through the second book of the 'Ice and Fire' series. Following the illegitimate crowning of sadistic boy king Joffrey, the realm of Westeros is thrown into civil war. Stannis Baratheon, rightful heir to the Iron Throne, is understandably pissed off, more so when his more popular, younger brother Renly, stakes his own claim. Newly crowned King in the North, Robb Stark, continues to wage war against the Lannisters, whilst up in the Iron Islands, the Greyjoys turn opportunist. Amidst the sparring of these five factions, Tyrion Lannister (a.k.a the Imp) serves as royal Hand in King's Landing, weaving his own net of intrigues and plots at court. Jon Snow and the Night's Watch move beyond the Wall, and far to the East, Daenerys traverses the Red Waste with her dragon hatchlings.
The story again unfolds through the perspectives of select viewpoint characters, with a few new ones joining since the last book. Tyrion is undoubtedly the focus in
Clash, having the largest amount of chapters assigned him. A fan favourite, the unlikely hero must utilise cunning and wit to outscheme his rivals, avert the tyranny of his family, and prepare the city's defences against those who march against them. Unlike
Thrones, which was mostly character introduction, world building and setup, scenes of grim warfare are given full reign here. Whilst still plodding in some areas (Bran), the plot generally moves along at a faster pace and the battle of Blackwater Bay serves as a rewarding climax. The explicit violence and rape may be a bit much for some readers.
Rating: 4/5
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