"George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire is a series of epic fantasy novels set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos. The story revolves around the power struggles among noble families as they vie for control of the Iron Throne and the Seven Kingdoms. The series is known for its complex characters, intricate plots, and moral ambiguity, often blurring the lines between good and evil. The first book, A Game of Thrones, was published in 1996, and the series currently includes five published novels, with two more planned. The books have inspired the popular television adaptation, Game of Thrones, which further expanded the series' global fanbase and cultural impact.