"A Song of Ice and Fire" Author George R.R. Martin gave a surprising update about his forthcoming novel titled "The Winds of Winter." Martin confirmed that the book is not finished yet but fortunately, there is progress. Also, he hopes to release the novel this year though he is not so sure about it yet.

Martin published a blog where he talked about football and the Golden Globes on Jan. 9 but one fan did not miss to hit the author with a question about "The Winds of Winter." When asked for a simple update about the book, Martin replied, "Not done yet, but I've made progress. But not as much as I hoped a year ago when I thought to be done by now."

But what's interesting in his reply is the revelation of the possible launch date of his highly anticipated novel. 'I think it will be out this year. (But hey, I thought the same thing last year)," the author continued.

It's rare for Martin to give away details about "The Winds of Winter." The last official update he wrote about the progress of the book was back in January 2016 according to Entertainment Weekly. Back then, he said that "Winds" is not completed yet, which could be blamed on his travels, blogs and some complications and distractions he faced while writing the novel.

Meanwhile, "Game of Thrones," the TV adaptation inspired by Martin's book series is currently being filmed for the seventh season. However, the latest news surrounding the fantasy drama involves the departure of actor Freddie Stroma who plays as Dickon, Samwell Tarly's brother. As per IGN, Stroma cannot reprise his role because of his current commitment to an ABC show called "Time After Time."

"Game of Thrones" Season 7 is slated to premiere in summer 2017. In the meantime, tell us how thrilled you are to read Martin's "The Winds of Winter." Do you also hope for the book to be released this year?