The seven kingdoms of Westeros are approaching the end of summer and the beginning of winter. Since the overthrow of the Mad King Aerys and the taking of the "Iron Throne" from the House of Targaryen, the kingdoms of the Baratheons, Lannisters, and Starks have been in a precarious truce. However, the situation changed drastically when King Robert appointed Eddard Stark as the powerful Hand of the King. Various conspiracies swirl around each house as they vie for supremacy... The Locus Award-winning historical drama begins.