George R.R. Martin offers update on 'Winds of Winter:' 'Not done yet'

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- Author George R.R. Martin has finally given an update on when fans might expect his next Song of Ice and Fire fantasy novel.

HBO adapted the popular books for the small screen as Game of Thrones, which will begin airing its seventh season this summer.

Martin's fifth and most recent book in the series -- A Dance with Dragons -- was released in 2011. He is currently at work on The Winds of Winter.

Martin broke his silence regarding his progress to respond to a fan who remarked on his blog: "I respect you immensely and do not want you to rush or release anything until you are completely satisfied with it. That being said, it has been a whole year since we have received an update... Unless you want to be bombarded with im's like this, I would suggest another update. Even if it's as simple as, 'Not done yet, but I've made progress (or not) ', or 'It'll be out this year (or not)'. Anything (or not). Either way, have a great new year, and thank you for, imo, the best fantasy series out there."

"You really think statements like that would make a difference? Ah, you sweet summer child. I have years of experience with this that tells me otherwise," Martin replied. "But okay, I will try it your way. 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. I think it will be out this year. (But hey, I thought the same thing last year)."