Fevre Dream

★ 8.46 / 20

World Fantasy Award nominee 1983, Locus Award nominee 1983.

When struggling riverboat captain Abner Marsh receives an offer of partnership from a wealthy aristocrat, he suspects something’s amiss. But when he meets the hauntingly pale, steely-eyed Joshua York, he is certain. For York doesn’t care that the icy winter of 1857 has wiped out all but one of Marsh’s dilapidated fleet. Nor does he care that he won’t earn back his investment in a decade. York has his own reasons for wanting to traverse the powerful Mississippi. And they are to be none of Marsh’s concern — no matter how bizarre, arbitrary, or capricious his actions may prove.

Marsh meant to turn down York’s offer. It was too full of secrets that spelled danger. But the promise of both gold and a grand new boat that could make history crushed his resolve — coupled with the terrible force of York’s mesmerizing gaze. Not until the maiden voyage of his new sidewheeler Fevre Dream would Marsh realize he had joined a mission both more sinister, and perhaps more noble, than his most fantastic nightmare... and mankind’s most impossible dream.

Here is the spellbinding tale of a vampire’s quest to unite his race with humanity, of a garrulous riverman’s dream of immortality, and of the undying legends of the steamboat era and a majestic, ancient river.

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Updated 03/30/2025

Category: Fantasy, Horror, Vampires

Release date: 1982

George R. R. Martin

George R. R. Martin is one of the most influential and celebrated authors in the world of fantasy literature. Known for his epic storytelling, intricate world-building, and morally complex characters, Martin has captured the imagination of millions of readers globally. Born on September 20, 1948, in Bayonne, New Jersey, he began his writing career as a young man and quickly became known for his distinctive narrative style. With works spanning across novels, short stories, and television scripts, Martin has established himself as a master of fantasy and speculative fiction.

Best known for his groundbreaking A Song of Ice and Fire series, which inspired the wildly popular television series Game of Thrones, Martin has redefined the modern fantasy genre. His books combine medieval-style politics, deep character development, and unpredictable plots, setting them apart from traditional fantasy works. In A Game of Thrones (1996), the first book in the series, Martin introduces readers to the treacherous and captivating world of Westeros, where noble families vie for power and the fate of the realm hangs in the balance. The series has become a cultural phenomenon, earning Martin critical acclaim and a massive global fanbase.

Martin's writing is known for its complexity, with multiple perspectives and intertwining plotlines that challenge readers' assumptions. His characters, often gray rather than strictly good or evil, add depth to the epic struggles of power, love, betrayal, and survival. The series’ unpredictability, including the shocking deaths of key characters, has set it apart from other works in the genre, earning Martin the title of "The American Tolkien."

Beyond A Song of Ice and Fire, Martin has contributed to various other works, including Fevre Dream, Tuf Voyaging, and The Ice Dragon, showcasing his versatility as a writer. His involvement in television, particularly his role as a co-executive producer and writer on Game of Thrones, has further cemented his status in the literary and entertainment world. Martin is also the editor of the Wild Cards series.

Despite his immense success, Martin's dedication to his craft remains unwavering. Fans eagerly await the next installment in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, with The Winds of Winter and A Dream of Spring promising to bring even more depth to his already intricate universe.

With his unparalleled storytelling, George R. R. Martin has not only shaped the fantasy genre but also influenced generations of writers, leaving a lasting legacy in both literature and popular culture. His ability to weave together complex worlds, multifaceted characters, and gripping narratives ensures that his works will continue to captivate readers for years to come.

Photo: Henry Söderlund / CC BY 4.0