Enthusiastic readers of novels with captivating and engaging plots often encounter a significant challenge while awaiting the next installment — a lack of updates. Having experienced this frustration in his youth, author Brandon Sanderson aims to spare his fans from similar feelings. By effectively utilizing technology and social media, Sanderson keeps his audience informed about the progress he is making on the novels they eagerly anticipate. For example, through his website, Sanderson provides regular updates for fans to engage with as he navigates through these highly awaited novels. This comprehensive, behind-the-scenes progress report features charts, annual summaries, discussions on various related topics, and active fan engagement via Instagram posts.
No one involved in a project wants to feel sidelined and left without updates, so Sanderson’s choice to leverage social media to connect with fans is well-received. Discussing his decision to adopt this approach in an interview with The Bookseller, Sanderson explained what motivated this engagement strategy. He stated:
“I grew up in an era where I never knew when new books were coming out… and so when I broke in one of the things I wanted to do was use the internet, which was relatively new [at the time]. I realized: ‘Hey, maybe my fans, if I’m lucky to have them, won’t have to be in the dark like I was.’”
Openness Is a Tactic George R.R. Martin Should Embrace More
Consequently, Sanderson embarked on his journey of blogging and utilizing social media to keep readers informed about his progress. Over the years, this strategy has proven effective as Sanderson has cultivated a loyal readership. In contrast, fellow literary figure and fantasy author George R.R. Martin is witnessing some of his devoted fans drift away. Martin’s fantasy works are legendary, with his A Song of Ice and Fire series inspiring the critically acclaimed HBO series, Game of Thrones. His novel, Fire & Blood, also served as inspiration for the prequel show, House of the Dragon, while A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, yet another HBO offering, is based on his writings. However, the prolonged wait for Martin’s The Winds of Winter seems to have strained the relationship between Martin and his fanbase.
The novel, which is the penultimate entry in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, has been plagued by controversies. Martin has been unable to meet deadlines, refraining from making any commitments regarding publication dates or consistently sharing updates. This approach has angered those who once supported him, which has subsequently impacted his work as he strives to complete the novel. Nevertheless, it is not too late for Martin to improve relations with his fans by providing blog updates and interviews he previously utilized — a method that has consistently worked for Sanderson.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is set to premiere on January 18, 2026, on HBO Max.
- Release Date
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January 18, 2026
- Network
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HBO
- Directors
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Owen Harris
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Peter Claffey
Ser Duncan ‘Dunk’ the Tall
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