'The Winds of Winter' release date, news: 'Game of Thrones' to wait for novel's launch before season 7 airs?

(George R.R. Martin)"The Winds of Winter" is rumored to be out before "Game of Thrones" season seven airs next year

For the past few years, fans have been eagerly waiting for the release of "The Winds of Winter," and with the conclusion of "Game of Thrones" season six, there are reports suggesting that the HBO show may delay the seventh installment until George R.R. Martin unveils the sixth book in his hit novel series.

According to Game N Guide, recent reports point to "GoT" potentially delaying the premiere of its seventh season as a sign of respect to Martin and his efforts in pushing for the completion of the sixth "A Song of Ice and Fire" book.

Also, creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss already dished last week that "Game of Thrones" season seven will indeed be delayed. "We're starting a bit later because at the end of this season, 'Winter is here' - and that means that sunny weather doesn't really serve our purposes anymore," they said during a podcast interview with UFC.

Though Benioff and Weiss did not mention anything about Martin and "The Winds of Winter," it may be that production is also trying to give enough time to the renowned author so he can launch the novel before the new episodes of "GoT" arrive.

Christian Today adds that there are some speculations revolving around the novel's 2017 release. The latest news suggest that "The Winds of Winter" may come next year, which gives Martin and his publishers extra time to polish the pages before "GoT" starts filming during the shadier season.

Meanwhile, rumors are also surrounding Euron Greyjoy, the character that Martin previously introduced in one of the upcoming book's chapters. Though Euron is one who is already a strong character in the series, he is deemed to rise to greater power.

Rumor has it that "The Winds of Winter" will see Euron taking down The Wall and defeating his foes, thus giving him the authority to become Castle Black's new leader.

Martin hasn't given the release date of "The Winds of Winter" yet but fans can continue hoping that the widely acclaimed author publishes his work before "Game of Thrones" season seven premieres.

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