'The Winds of Winter' release date 2017 rumors: George R.R. Martin remains mum on novel's status

(Reuters/Denis Balibouse)Speculations about George R.R. Martin's "The Winds of Winter" have not stopped.

There has been a bit of an uproar from fans of George R.R. Martin's work as the author has yet to give an update on the highly anticipated novel, "The Winds of Winter." The sixth in a novel series that started with "A Game of Thrones," "The Winds of Winter" has long been awaited for a release, but it's been almost six years in the making and Martin has still yet to publish the work.

Fans of the franchise are becoming antsy since Martin has not provided an update on "The Winds of Winter" either. According to Insider, the last time the author gave an update was in January 2016, making it a year since he last spoke of the novel's status. It seems that fans are divided on this front — with some reacting negatively, while others are remaining supportive of the author.

But, of course, Martin has hinted at what the upcoming novel will be about. It will continue the story laid out in the previous five novels, but, since the author is recognized for his fondness of killing off important characters, fans are expecting more to die in "The Winds of Winter." One particular character that is rumored to die is Lyanna Mormont, the ruler of Bear Island. 

It is unknown why Martin is taking so long to publish "The Winds of Winter," but there have been numerous speculations regarding the matter. While there has been talk of Martin being too preoccupied with other projects and work commitments, there are also those who claim that the author may be working on the last two books simultaneously. "A Dream of Spring" is set to be the sequel to "The Winds of Winter" and the final installment in the "A Song of Ice and Fire" novel series. And although Martin has not confirmed this, rumor has it that "The Winds of Winter" and "A Dream of Spring" will be released at the same time.

Copyright © 2016 Ecumenical News