The last everybody heard about the latest book in the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, "Winds of Winter," was that author George R.R. Martin is still penning it and is pressured to finish the book before the HBO series, "Game of Thrones," returns for season six.

Now, a recent Reddit AMA (Ask Me Anything) with the the director of the show's upcoming season, Jack Bender, suggests the book might be ready for release soon. But those who got their hopes up soon found themselves disappointed.

During the Reddit AMA, Bender, famous for his works on "Lost" and "The Sopranos," was asked if, in preparation for directing the sixth season, he was able to read an advanced copy of "Winds of Winter."

The director gave a definitive "yes," which lead to fans who have been eagerly waiting for the book's release date to speculate that the book is almost, if not entirely done, will soon be ready for release.

However, fan site Watchers of the Wall debunked this. According to the site, a "very reliable source" confirmed that Bender might simply have confused the question to mean the sixth season's outline and not an advanced copy from George R.R. Martin.

"Winds of Winter" is the sixth book in the epic fantasy novel series, "A Song of Ice and Fire," which the hit TV series "Game of Thrones" is based on. The author, GRRM, previously revealed he wants to release the book before the next season comes out and even admitted to canceling and turning down convention shows and interviews so he can focus solely on finishing the book. He even said no to writing an episode for season six.

For now, fans can only satiate their need for "Winds of Winter" updates through rumors and speculations. Some of these revolve around possible new characters like Euron Greyjoy, the Tarlys, and the knight Ser Arthur Dayne.

Fans can also read an excerpt of the chapter "Alayne" on George R.R. Martin's blog.