‘Winds of Winter’: Author Teases Sansa Stark's Sample Chapter, Plans Release Date Before 2016

George R. R. Martin has released a sample chapter of Sansa Stark from his upcoming book, “Winds of Winter.” The chapter reveals what the character and Petyr Baelish are planning together in the book. In another report, the author has confirmed that he has cleared most of his schedule to try and finish the book before 2016. [Spoiler Alert!]

Petyr Baelish has made preparations to marry Sansa Stark off to Harrold Hardyng, also known as Harry the Heir. The main focus of the sample chapter of “Winds of Winter,” released on the official website of the author, is Sansa’s marriage.

Robert Arryn, son of the late Lysa Arryn, wants Sansa to marry him. However, according to Petyr Baelish’s plan, she will have to marry Harry. Young Harry is the heir to Robert Arryn’s position of Lord of the Eyrie and Defender of the Vale. The character doesn’t know that Alayne, who is living as the bastard daughter of Petyr, is actually Sansa Stark.

Readers may note that there are a few changes in Sansa Stark in “Winds of Winter.” The character is bolder and able to hold her ground in a conversation. She comes up with the idea to select the best Knights of the Vale as “Brotherhood of Winged Knights,” a group of knights who will defend their lord the same way as the Kingsguard protects the king.

Sansa will be tasked with ensuring Harry the Heir stays at the Vale and gets married to her when he arrives for the Winged Knights competition. “Charm him. Entrance him. Bewitch him,” Petyr Baelish tells her in the sample chapter. The task will prove to be difficult for her, as Harry thinks of her only as the bastard daughter of Baelish and someone below his station.

It is unclear if Sansa succeeds in her mission. Readers will have to wait for the release of “Winds of Winter” to find out whether the two main characters at the Vale will succeed in their plan. According to a report by Entertainment Weekly, George R. R. Martin had always planned of releasing the next book before “Game of Thrones” Season 6 airs. The sixth season of the popular TV series is expected to air by early 2016.

George R. R. Martin has stated that he has cancelled two convention appearances this year and is turning down interviews to focus on finishing “Winds of Winter.” The author also revealed that he has come up with a new “twist” in the story that will drive the readers “crazy.” The book series is known for featuring shocking deaths and unexpected twists.

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