The much-anticipated book "Winds of Winter" release was speculated to happen in spring 2016 after "Game of Thrones" author George R. R. Martin did a cameo on "Z Nation" on Syfy Channel on a Halloween episode titled "The Collector."
Playing a zombie character inspired by himself in the "Z Nation" cameo appearance, Martin was presented to a collector who was unaware about his popularity. His captor identified him as the author of "A Song of Ice and Fire." Soon, the author was seen signing out copies of "A Promise of Spring."
This led to fresh speculations that the much-anticipated book "Winds of Winter" may release in spring 2016, as Martin himself was sending out feelers for the same.
On the other hand, there are rumors that "Winds of Winter" is already in the publishing house and may release in time for the upcoming holiday season, according to Australia Network News.
The "Game of Thrones" author has also promised a number of twists and turns in "Winds of Winter," which will shock the fans. Speculations are rife that Jon Snow (Kit Harington) may not be dead in the book at all as Harington was seen shooting for the upcoming "Game of Thrones" season 6 in Belfast, Ireland.
Martin said to Entertainment Weekly in an interview that he is planning a shocking twist on a long-time character that he had not thought about before. He said, "This is going to drive your readers crazy, but I love it. I'm still weighing whether to go that direction or not. It's a great twist."