In any case, I must admit that the intrigue that excites me the most is the one that takes place in the north, around the wall and beyond (Jon, Bran, Wildlings, Stannis ...). After all, if the famous adage "winter is coming" makes sense, it's there! Everything that happens south or elsewhere captivates me less than at the beginning, and that's a shame.
Indeed, apart from the North events that keep us in suspense, I would say that the novel stomps, and becomes downright painful to read at times. Most of the main characters circling, or scattered in wanderings, detours that have been difficult to identify the target. The most exciting of all, Tyrion, I was very interested in the previous volumes, but there .. I admit I read most of his chapters in fast! This is the limit!
The story of Arya becomes incomprehensible, I do not grasp the intention of George RR Martin about it (but he only knows?).
As for Daenerys, we want to ask him to speed up a little step toward Westeros.
It makes you wonder if the course of each will be able to recross one day ...
With this proliferation of intrigue in the plot, the story is considerably more complex, as if there was need. You end up losing it. For example, it is now difficult to keep in mind all the characters, as they are many, not to mention the fact that they are not as endearing as those we have been following since the start. As son too were fired, the overall plot of the story disintegrates and ends up losing his spine.
In short, in talking of the coming of winter, we would like him to come last.
Then Monsieur Georges RR Martin, please, it is time that all this ends! And as the writer is known for writing slowly and steadily push the release dates, it is not certain that "Winds of Winter" in 2014 appear ... that waiting!
PS. Before imposing a UNV (as some background to the chain), at least have the honesty to argue by giving your opinion. Thank you in advance.