Fire & Blood is a fantasy book by author George R. R. Martin, first published in 2018. Written as a historical text within the world of Martin's A Song of Fire and Ice universe, the book chronicles the history of House Targaryen, the ruling family in the fictional land of Westeros.
The book depicts several generations of Targaryen rulers from the first king, Aegon the Conqueror, to the seventh, Aegon III. It starts with the first Aegon arriving in Westeros and waging war with the various lords until the whole of the Seven Kingdoms, as it is referred to in the book, bends the knee to him. Later, it follows the long and peaceful reign of King Jaeherys, who unified the realm with his diplomatic and thoughtful nature. The largest portion of the book recounts the "Dance of the Dragons," a lengthy civil war arising from a disputed claim to the throne resulting in massive losses on both sides. The conflict occurs between Rhaenyra Targaryen and her half-brother Aegon II, following the death of their father Viserys. The text shows how the Targaryen dynasty is plagued with in-fighting, succession issues, and betrayal.
Martin has stated the book is projected to be part of a two-part series. Part of the book was adapted into a television series, titled House of the Dragon, which aired on HBO in the summer of 2022. The series starred Emma D'Arcy, Olivia Cooke, Paddy Considine, and Matt Smith. It received positive reviews upon its release and drew record viewer numbers for HBO.
