Fans of "Game of Thrones" have been desperately waiting for the sixth installment in the "Song of Ice and Fire" series. Reports suggested that George R.R. Martin's "Winds of Winter" is rumored to be delayed, but probably it will still be released before "Game of Thrones" Season 7. Moreover, a prequel to the hit HBO series is reportedly currently on preliminary talks.

According to a report, people may have to wait a little longer for the book to be released as the author himself has confessed "slow progress" for "Winds of Winter" in terms of writing. It has been particularly difficult for people to wait for the next book ever since "Game of Thrones" Season 6 got over.

It is rumored that "Game of Thrones" Season 7 would be based on the latest novel, "Winds of Winter." Although there is still no official confirmation about the plot of the book or the show, it is rumored that "Winds of Winter" may be released just before "Game of Thrones" Season 7 premiere.

Meanwhile, Martin has promised fans that he will update his blog as soon as a definite "Winds of Winter" release date is available.

"Look, I have always had problems with deadlines. For whatever reason, I don't respond well to them," Martin posted on his official blog.

"Enjoy the show. Enjoy the books," the author added. "Meanwhile, I'll keep writing. Chapter at a time. Page at a time. Word at a time. That's all I know how to do."

As an overview, the famous television drama "Game of Thrones" is based on the novels in Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series. So far, the six seasons of the show have covered the previous five installments in the author's series.

In another report, HBO confirmed they are in "preliminary talks" with "Game Of Thrones" creator George R.R Martin about making a prequel to the hit series.

"I would say it's still kind of preliminary ongoing talks. There are areas we are exploring, but I wouldn't point to any one and say, This is what we're going to do," network's programming president Casey Bloys told Entertainment Weekly.

"Game of Thrones" is currently filming its next season, which will be split into two parts - with the first instalment slated to air in mid 2017.