Game of Thrones (TV Series) Book of the Stranger (2016) User Reviews

Come and See

[ThomasDrufke · 10/10 · 15 May 2016]

Season 6 is shaping up to be one of the best seasons of Game of Thrones yet, and we're only a mere 4 episodes in. 'Book of the Stranger' contained one of the most satisfying scenes of the entire series, saw the rebirth of Daenerys, and plenty of other tidbits for the fans to chew on. For as miserable of a show this has been, it seems that good things are finally happening for the characters we have come to love for so many years, and I couldn't be more pleased with what I'm seeing.

Beginning in Castle Black, as we have for all 4 of the episodes so far, Sansa finally reached The Wall. I was relieved her and Jon didn't coincidentally 'not' cross paths, as Jon wanted to leave. Their reunion was probably my favorite moment of the entire season and one of the most heartwarming scenes this show has had to offer (of the few that they've had). We've all been waiting for Sansa to take that big leap forward after all she's been through, and convincing Jon to go to Winterfell and take on the Bolton's was a much needed step.

Speaking of which, it seems the warning letter from Ramsay involving Rickon's whereabouts was just the motivation Snow needed to make his next move. Unfortunately, that's exactly what Ramsay wants, and they are vastly outnumbered. How can Jon possibly get out of this one? Perhaps another shadow baby from Melisandre would help somehow? Not if Brienne has anything to say about it. Realistically, I'm sure Jon will get enough support from the houses of the North to take back Winterfell, I just hope it happens sooner rather than later. It also should be interesting to see just whose side Baelish is on. I'm not completely buying into him saying they will 'help' Sansa just yet.

Similarly, the Lannisters are piecing together their next move against the High Sparrow and the faith. Seeing Cersei and Jaime be so assertive is nice when their son consistently does the opposite. Seriously, when is Tommen biting it? It's always nice to see Olenna Tyrell attempt to shut down Cersei, but in order to get Margaery back, they all need to work together. Anything to bring down the High Sparrow and his repetitive speeches would be welcomed. At the same time, I can definitely see all of the Tyrell's calling it quits this year. It sure seems like Loras would be okay with that.

Theon made his way back to his homeland just in time for the 'Kingsmoot' from what I understand. I don't entirely think we need a ton of focus on the Iron Islands, I'm excited to see how they handle the newly reformed relationship between Theon and Yara.

Lastly, Dany made a huge step forward this week as she has seemingly taken over all of the remaining Dothraki by once again walking through the flames. Dany has always had great ending scenes for this show, but this one meant a little more. With the Doth on her side, she may finally have enough to move onward to Kings Landing. We knew it would eventually happened, but I'm glad it wasn't dragged out till the last episode of the season. It also served as a great mirror to the 10th episode of season 1. Well done Dave and Dan, well done.

Overall, 'Book of the Stranger' showcased the greatness that Game of Thrones can be when it balances set up with pay off impeccably. Season 6 just keeps getting better.

+Sansa & Jon finally

+Lannisters & Tyrells working together?

+Dany walks through the flames again

+The Letter

+Baelish up to no good

-Tired of High Sparrow's speeches

10/10

Call the banners

[OmarHartwellWhite · 10/10 · 15 May 2016]

***May Contain Spoilers***

While this episode served mainly to set the stage for things to come, it was filled with great scenes and some great dialogue. One of my favorite scenes was Little Finger owning Lord Royce. Little Finger completely flips the threat on himself onto Lord Royce as Robbin is easily manipulated by Baelish who will really rule as Lord of the Vale. Curious to see Sansa encounter Baelish again. He did send her off to Ramsay but she needs the Vale so she will need to quickly forgive. Tyrion does some negotiating and acts in Daenery's absence and gets some backlash from his colleagues for his proposal to the Masters of Astapor, Yunkai and Volantis. Jorah and Daario reach Daenerys and attend the dosh khaleen. Daenerys heats things up and wins some support in the process. Can't wait to see the Tyrell's and Lannister's take on the High Sparrow and the faith and then Jon, Sansa, the wildlings, the Vale and any northern houses who will rally behind Jon and Sansa to take on Ramsay. Brienne gloats and talks some s*** to Davos and Melisandre. Cersei, Jaime, the Queen of Thorns and Kevin Lannister discuss working towards a common goal. Theon and Yara reunite in an iron born way, but never the less unite to make Yara the leader of the iron islands. Jon gets "the pink letter" as Ramsay personally calls Jon out and claims to have Rickon and will flay all the wildlings and makes a few other threats which influence their response to the letter. This episode really set the stage for the plot line in the north, Mereen and Vaas Dorthrak, King's landing. Can't wait to see the battles in the North. King's landing is about to go war as well as Mereen. The next 6 episodes should be amazing.

What an episode!

[Dannyboi94 · 10/10 · 16 May 2016]

Season 6 does it again, with another outstanding episode. It is perfectly paced this time around, with each character getting a reasonable amount of screen time without it being rushed over.

The scenes with Tyrion and others have to some of his best scenes in a long time. The writing is yet again fantastic. Seeing two characters meet up again after so long, was one of the most tear-jerking scenes in a TV show period. Cersei becoming more of a bad ass this time around, gaining others to her side, and it looks like House Lannister and Tyrell might actually form an alliance.

This episode was great throughout, there was not one dull moment, and again with Ramsey being one step ahead of everyone around him, leading to a shocking scene. But all of this leads to one of the best endings in the show so far. Throughout seasons 4-5, people have said that Dany has had little to do, but if they say that again after this episode, well, they are just haters. She shows her true powers, since season 1. It is all played around to feel like season 1 finale, and it doesn't disappoint. This also helps when there is an extraordinary soundtrack playing in the background.

Brilliant episode, season 6 is the best season along with season 4. 10/10

Family reunions

[Tweekums · 10/10 · 14 January 2017]

As this episode opens Jon Snow is planning to leave Castle Black but before he does there is a surprise arrival; Sansa, along with Brienne of Tarth and Pod, comes through the gates and after a reunion with her brother tells him that he must prepare to lead an army to retake Winterfell from Ramsay Bolton; he initially less than keen but when, later in the episode, he receives a letter from Ramsay stating that he now has Rickon and demands Sansa's return he agrees that he must march south on Winterfell with a Wildling army. Back in King's Landing Queen Margaery talks to High Sparrow before being allowed to see her brother again. Elsewhere in the capital Cersei persuades Olenna Tyrell that her forces should move to King's Landing to free her children and destroy High Sparrow and his acolytes. A third family reunion takes place in Pike; here Theon is reunited with his sister and promises to serve her. Across the Narrow Sea Tyrion makes a deal with the slavers and Jorah and Daario sneak into Vaes Dothrak hoping to free Daenerys; she has a far more radical plan though.

This was a top notch episode; it opened brilliantly; I was sure Sansa's travel north would be dragged out for quite a while longer but no. Her speech to her half-brother showed just how much this character has developed over the series; Sophie Turner was really good in the role. It continues well with plenty of hints at battles to come; Jon's to retake Winterfell; another to bring down the High Sparrow and possibly Yara Greyjoy struggle to become the ruler of the Iron Islands. We also get the welcome return of Lord Petyr Baelish for the first time this season; as manipulative and ambiguous as ever. All of this serves as a mere appetiser to the episodes fiery conclusion where Daenerys confronts the assembles Khals and destroys them in her own inimitable style; possibly this season's best moment so far… certainly its most spectacular. On a more downbeat note the episode sees the death of a secondary character who has been around since the first season… at least she got to die in an impressive scene as she tried, unsuccessfully, to kill Ramsey Bolton. Overall I think this was this season's best episode to date.

The Gift of the Stranger

[tlfirth · 9/10 · 15 May 2016]

A superb episode that benefits from having extra time to map out its storytelling, Book of the Stranger is a maelstrom of death, deceit and reunion. Unlike other seasons, Season 6 has gone straight for the kill with its plot developments and they're hitting the mark so far. A quiet premiere, led to a tumultuous second episode, and an intriguing third episode, led to this exciting story for episode four. So much is happening, it's sometimes hard to keep track of each character, but I'll try.

Firstly, we have the incredibly touching reunion of Jon and Sansa, so touching in fact, that it didn't need words to explain. Along with Ramsey's threatening letter, which conveniently brings Tormund to Jon's side, the North looks to be in quite a precarious position, and even Melisandre is falling in line with Jon. The only thing is, I feel Edd may perhaps try to steer Jon around to the realistic situation, involving White Walkers. As an aside, it's great to see Littlefinger and the Vale again, with a tantalising development that Baelish has persuaded Lord Rob to fight for Sansa's freedom. In Winterfell, it's a scene that I was dreading to happen, but I knew it would, where Osha is killed by Ramsey, who gives us another reason (adding to a long list here) to despise his existence.

Briefly, in Pyke, we have another reunion, but one that's not so touching. It seems Yara, understandably, has lost a lot of her affection for Theon since she attempted to rescue all that time ago, and she's still bitter about it. But she eats her words when she hears that her brother is willing to support her claim in the Kingsmoot.

In King's Landing, tensions are most definitely boiling as Margaery sees through the High Sparrow's symbolic words and warns her brother not to succumb to their torture and temptation. Meanwhile, Lady Olenna and Queen Mother Cersei have miraculously agreed on something, if for entirely different reasons. If the Tyrell army comes to King's Landing, who knows what exciting things could happen in the Capitol very soon.

Things are moving quickly in Meereen, with Tyrion meeting rather convivially with the masters of three cities in Slaver's Bay, Yunkai, Astapor and Volantis. His diplomacy quickly pays off, but I wonder whether his offer is enough to persuade them to change their ways. I sympathise with Missandei and Grey Worm, however, that his plan is closer to helping the masters stay rich rather than freeing the slaves.

But finally, the biggest developments of all, in Vaes Dothrak Jorah and Daario have arrived to rescue their Queen. Despite Jorah's confident plan, it soon backfires to the point where they're forced to commit a terrible sin in the Dothraki city. They do locate Daenerys, however, and she has a plan of her own. The final scene of the episode is a great call-back to the first season as we are reminded of the true reason why Targaryens have a dragon as their sigil. Daenerys succeeds in burning more Khals than you can count and gains the support, albeit surprised support, of the entire Khalasar outside. It's great to see Daario's reaction as well, as he realises how powerful she truly is. The only thing is missing is Drogon.

A high-stakes episode with enough politics to balance the action. Season 6 is quickly on its way to becoming my favourite season so far, which sort of makes me feel sorry for George R. R. Martin, to see his work, albeit a transformed version of his work, being continued without him. Let's just hope that his final books match the series or even better, top them, and everyone will be happy.

Engaging and fiery, Book of the Stranger succeeds in every way

[gavin-thelordofthefu-48-460297 · 10/10 · 16 May 2016]

After the second and third episodes were an improvement over the first episode (which I thought was really good despite how slow it got) with stronger character depth and solid writing, Book of the Stranger continues the high standards. Sure, we haven't seen more of Arya's story-arc where she got her sight back and decides to have no name, but this episode is where Season 6 might get more and more compelling.

The story remains as interesting and has some really effective moments were Sansa and Jon Snow reunite and vow to rescue Rickon Stark after receiving a letter from Ramsay Bolton along with the finale where Daenerys Targaryen taking charge of all the khalasars recalls her story elements of the beginning of the first season and does so perfectly. The writing is at the high standards left by Home and Oathbreaker and the performances are still superb with Kit Harington, Emilia Clarke, and Sophie Turner giving out some of their best acting. The directing is stupendous, the pacing takes it time to bring some depth and it succeeds, the editing is solid, the sets and scenery are still lavish, and Ramin Djawadi continues to bring some beautifully well-done atmosphere and some exemplary emotion to it (OK, I'm not British, but I always wanted to use that word).

Overall, Book of the Stranger continues where the last two episodes left off. It's engaging, fiery, and touching. Highly recommended! :)

Fire and Blood

[orindesilva · 9/10 · 16 May 2016]

Holy crap! What an episode, yet again. Season Six has been fantastic thus far and I am so happy with the quality of the storytelling. My favourite season of Game of Thrones has up until this point been the fourth season, but this season is already proving to be even more exciting and brilliant.

It was so heartwarming to see Jon and Sansa reunite after so long apart, it almost reduced me to tears! Sophie Turner (Sansa) is really shining at the moment, and her interactions with the likes of Jon and Brienne are truly mesmerising. She is becoming a strong young woman, and is reigniting House Stark, finally! I especially loved the eye contact shared between Tormund and Brienne, I am certainly hoping that something develops between those two.

I was very excited by the return of Littlefinger this week, he is one of the most complex and fascinating characters not only on the show but in television. He certainly did not disappoint me in this episode, and I cannot wait to see what is in store for him and house Arryn next. I was a little bit disappointed to see so little of the Greyjoy's this week but next weeks episode looks as though it will spend more time with the folk of the Iron Islands.

Some of this weeks best interactions came from Jorah and Daario, and I loved the street brawl scene the two of them shared with the Dothraki. It was Daenerys who stole the show however. Emilia Clarke is such a talented actress, and her speech to Khal Moorland the Bloodriders was haunting. I had chills watching the final scene, Dany is such a figure of power in the show and it was nice to see her demonstrate what she is capable of once again. HBO have handled her character perfectly, and I am desperate to see where her character ends up next, I am so keen to see Drogon soon!

Overall, 'Book of the Stranger' is a captivating and elegant episode with many outstanding moments. Game of Thrones is pulling out all the stops this season, and it is only going to get better; 9/10 for S6E04, it is truly brilliant, and will not disappoint anyone. Performance of the week: Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen)

Two Fantastic Scenes in One of the Best Episodes

[claudio_carvalho · 9/10 · 16 May 2016]

Sansa arrives at Black Castle with Brienne and Podrick and reunites to Jon Snow, who has resigned from the Night's Watch after the deception of the betrayal of his brothers. Sansa tries to convince him to attack and retake Winterfell while Brienne meets Davos and Melisandre and warns that she killed Stannis and she does not forget or forgive the assassination of Renly through black magic. Littlefinger returns to Runestone and is welcomed by his nephew Robin and convinces him to send his army to protect Sansa at Castle Black. In Meereen, Tyrion negotiates a truce and the end of the support to the Sons of Harpy with the masters of Slaver's Bay. Jorah and Daario arrive at Vaes Dothrak and they meet Daenerys that explains a plan to them. Margaery meets the High Sparrow and he tells how he learned the truth. Tommen tells to Cersei that Margaery will be exposed to the people soon, and Cersei plots a scheme with Olenna to destroy the High Sparrow. Theon returns to the Iron Island and after a cold reception of Yara, he tells that he wants to support her. Ramsey stabs Osha with a knife killing her in Winterfell. Jon Snow receives a letter from Ramsey with insults and threatening him. Daenerys is brought to the khals in a temple and the set in motion her evil plan.

"Book of the Stranger" is among the best episode of "Game of Thrones". Every segment is excellent and important, but the reunion of Sansa and Jon Snow and the final scene of Daenerys and the khals are spectacular. The encounter of Brienne with Davos and Melisandre is tense. Soon the viewers will certainly see the bloody war that is coming. The powerful music score in the end is another great attraction of this great show. My vote is nine.

Title (Brazil): "Book of the Stranger"

Game of Thrones - S06E04

[j_forbesy · 10/10 · 16 May 2016]

I'm going to start by saying this episode was just straight out fantastic. The past week I've watched a few episodes from season 1 and I was actually surprised how contained the show started. We all now know Game of Thrones as this show spread over a whole globe with multiple stories happening at once but we forget that the show started with only a few locations. What I really liked they have started doing this season is starting to limit the story lines. We got this last year when we saw our first team up with Tyrion and Varys joining Daenarys in Meeren. Now we finally reunited two Starks, Sansa and our favourite bastard Jon. I thought that everything at Castle Black with them was fantastic and I really hope that we continue to see them together and start reuniting other members of the Stark family.

It would usually be really weird to be 4 episodes into a season and still seeing characters for the first time for the season, but not in Game of Thrones. This episode we got our first appearance of Little Finger and Margery. I really liked the Little Finger scene because it really reminded us of the character he is. In just 1 scene this season, he has managed to manipulate this childish king into giving him his army. That really stood out to me how we often forget about Little Finger and his is mostly a background character but in the end he is playing the long game. I honestly wouldn't be surprised to see him sitting on that uncomfortable throne in he end. The Margery scene wasn't big in anyway but it was a well rounded scene that reintroduced us to the character for the first time his season. I liked how her appearance really tied into what Cersi and Jamie are planning in King's Landing and trying to manipulate the small council into taking down the High Sparrow. On the High Sparrow he was again outstanding. I really loved his scene with Margery and how he spoke his life story to how he became who he was.

Something small that I noticed this episode that I thought was really well was the camera work. Through the scene with the High Sparrow and Margery I thought they really controlled the camera well and it enhanced the power of the High Sparrow as he told his story. The other place in the episode I noticed it was during some of Tyrion's scenes. His scenes were again outstanding, his delivery was spot on and I really love how he has taken on the power role. I thought there were certain times where the used the position of Tyrion in the set and the height of the camera to give Tyrion a bigger appearance. We are never going to view him as anything more than a midget but I like how they are using camera angles to give him a more powerful appearance as he gains more power during the series.

There was something that really stood out to me this episode that made me really enjoy this episode and it was the ending. I said last week that I felt the Daenarys storyline has really hit a halt lately and I want to see her fighting for power and taking over armies like we saw her so early in the series. This was the episode she did it. Her speech she gave to the Dothraki was really powerful, something we haven't seen her do in such a long time. Daenarys was introduced to us this determined and powerful character and like I said last week, they shied away from that. So it was great to see her back taking control and being the powerful and dominate force we know she can.

This episode was fantastic. There is still so much I didn't touch on in the review but there wasn't one thing I didn't like. What I loved the most about it is how apart from the end, there weren't that many major moments and for the most part it was just basic story progression for the series, but that didn't restrict the episode. Some people may consider these filler episodes but in the end, I don't care if it is the episode that everything happens or an episode that is well executed story telling, a good episode is a good episode and that is what we got tonight.

10/10 - See more reviews at thenotsonerdynerd.wordpress.com/

Mind Blowing!

[rushiparmar · 10/10 · 24 December 2018]

Seriously.. it's one of the best episode!! Especially the last minutes gave me goosebumps and attracted me to what people thought of this episode and i was amazed to find that some people were kind of bored! Seriously!? I can't believe it..

A page turner that is a must acquaintence

[TheLittleSongbird · 10/10 · 22 March 2018]

Came to 'Game of Thrones' fairly late in the game and due to being so busy the binge-watching was gradual. Have found myself truly loving the show, very quickly becoming one of my favourites. It totally lives up to the hype and not only does it do the brilliant source material justice (a rarity in television) it is on its own merits one of the finest, most addictive and consistently compelling shows in recent years and quality-wise it puts a lot of films in recent years to shame.

"Book of the Stranger" is one of the best episodes of Season 6, which settled much quicker and more consistently than Season 5 generally, and a standout of the latter seasons, an episode that has everything that makes 'Game of Thrones' as great as it is and what it's all about. It is one of the most acclaimed episodes of the season, have also seen fans and critics cite it as one of the best 'Game of Thrones' episodes, and can totally see why on all counts. Never thought that another Season 6 episode could outdo the brilliant "Home", "Book of the Stranger" may have just managed that.

While the whole story is tremendously absorbing with a lot of passion, sensitivity and emotional wallop, every 'Game of Thrones' episode has at least one standout scene even the weaker ones. "Book of the Stranger" has three, the Jon and Sansa reunion, Daenerys' conquering and the scene between Brienne, Davos and Melisandre. All three among the season's best scenes.

Anything with Tyrion is awesome and also found the letter scene pretty harrowing with it showing how much a monster Ramsay is. The whole episode is packed with reunions, alliances and forward momentum in both story and characterisation, with plenty of surprises and emotion.

'Game of Thrones' has always been consistent in the high quality of the acting. Particularly outstanding performances being from Emilia Clarke and Peter Dinklage.

Visually, "Book of the Stranger" looks amazing, as one would expect for 'Game of Thrones'. The scenery is throughout spectacular, the sets are hugely atmospheric and beautiful on the eyes with a real meticulous eye for detail and the costumes suit the characters to a tee. The make-up is beautifully done. As well the cinematography and editing, which are cinematic quality as well.

One cannot talk about "Book of the Stranger" without mentioning the thematically, orchestrally and atmospherically multi-layered music scoring and the unforgettable main theme. Again, worthy of a high-budget fantasy/action/drama film. The end scoring is especially powerful.

The writing is thought-provoking and very rich in layers with plenty of passion and sensitivity.

In conclusion, fantastic episode and a must watch. And this is coming from a genuine viewer who has not given every episode a 10 (have actually given my fair share of 8s and 9s) and has been honest in her opinions. 10/10 Bethany Cox

Well propelled and exciting

[toria484 · 16 May 2016]

Not sure what all the negativity is for but in my opinion the episode did all of the things it should have done and made it to be one of the best of the season so far.

It started off with a heartwarming reunion of Sansa and Jon-a reunion all fans have been waiting for and honestly brought tears to my eyes as its something I have been waiting for as well. This scene was particularly satisfying as I was so scared it would be another instance such as when Arya was literally a couple of metres away from a reunion from Sansa but then turned away and because of the last we saw of Jon last episode was of him leaving but i'm so glad it turned out the way it did.

We then see Baelish and Robin interact which was good as it was a story line that hadn't seen thus far. Baelish hints at going to find Sansa and going to "help her" which we find out later in the episode this could potentially help Jon win back Winterfell with a well-needed army. The next scene we saw Tyrion being Tyrion- negotiating, pissing some people off but trying to do what he deems morally right. This was an interesting scene because Greyworm and Missandei don't agree with Tyrion but are still being loyal to Daenerys so I wonder how long that will hold out until Dani returns. Tyrion I think has the right intentions and is going about the way he thinks will cause the least trouble but I do wonder the repercussions of having slavery for another seven years will be.

We are then shown Daario and Jorah trying to free Dani. Daario sports Jorah's greyscale which is the first time someone other than Jorah has seen it so it will be interesting what happens with that. I thought Jorah would keep it a secret and when it was getting too bad and he was unable to control it he would leave to protect his Kahleesi but we will have to wait and see now We then revisit Daenerys making a friend as she comes across Daario and Jorah who then come up with a plan to get her out without mass bloodshed.

The next scene shows Margaery in her cell as she gets told to come out and meet with the high sparrow. This was the only scene that really lost me a bit. It was nice to see something different develop with Margaery but I find the High Sparrow incredibly dreary to listen to so I have to admit I zoned out a bit. Margeary is then reunited with her brother who seems to have given up hope. As it was always clear that is just made even clearer in this scene- Margaery is the strongest Tyrell.

Cersei and Jamie then do their usual intimidation and manipulation to try and eliminate the HIgh Sparrow. Pretty decent development as you start to see more cooperation between the Lannisters and the Tyrells even if it is reluctant, they just have found a common ground. Small segment between Theon and his sister. Not much happens just him giving his right to the throne to her and admitting her doesn't want to rule. I personally just want to see Theon sit down for a while so he can just relax for a while. Granted he did some messed up sh*t, he didn't deserve what Ramsay did to him.

Speaking of the little sh*t, the next scene is Ramsay doing what he does best- killing and then smiling about it. Osha comes in, tries her best to kill Ramsay and unfortunately gets stabbed in the neck instead. I was really rooting for and I really liked her loyalty, almost, to the Starks and really sad she's dead. And more so, sad Ramsay isn't. The next scene is at Castle Black with the usual crew eating "food" when on receives a letter. It made my skin crawl and to think the writer actually had to write that makes me feel ill. I love the relationships that have formed between the people at Castle Black. Jon and Sansa, Jon and Tormund and Eddison. As well as Brienne and Sansa. I think the writers have made a really good job of creating these characters and still holding them to their beliefs, but when necessary, can put their pride away and cooperate- as also shown by Brienne, Davos and Melisandre earlier in the episode. I hope that Baelish will come with his army and help them out so that they stand a chance against Ramsay because Christ, I want him dead. I saw a review about someone complaining about the amount of screen time Ramsay seems to be getting, but I would much rather have a strong (although repulsive) character with clear motives and story line than one such as Bran, who I know is a lot younger but I just never clicked with his story. Ramsay has also become an important part in the series as he has Winterfell, the home of Jon and Sansa, who now both are together and keen to go home. And of course the finale of the episode. Once again, Dani manages to slam down the disgusting comments made to her and instead of submitting, she burns them alive and emerges- quite literally- the victor. I am exited to see where he newly found Dothraki followers take her in terms of Meereen but we will just have to see.

So in review, the episode was engaging for the most part but certainly didn't leave any story lines stagnant. All story lines presented in this episode have been developed and have laid out a foundation for future episodes without making the whole episode simply a set-up episode in which nothing happens. Excited to see next weeks episode.

Slips Up a Bit

[Hitchcoc · 7/10 · 15 May 2016]

The concluding scene is quite astonishing, though not in a great way. I expected dragons, not some goofy fire engendered by God knows what. Is she indeed supernatural? It is so contrived. The rest involve a series of unbelievable (in the dramatic world) events that probably shouldn't have worked. There is an attempted seduction with murder in mind which is an utter failure (because it never had a chance). Why can't Theon get a little respect? Cersei is spinning her web. Doesn't anyone realize that she is a snake? Anyway, I will withhold judgment for now and see what tomorrow brings. John Snow is still around and has been challenged. He want to be done but isn't going to have much success not fighting. Sansa is back making demands. Her backbone has suddenly appeared (not very gradually).

Napalms and unbreakable Dothraki reed

[Ar_Pharazon_the_golden · 4/10 · 18 May 2016]

There are some good scenes in this episode. Really.

But you will not read about them here. Because the bad ones are too bad to be overlooked.

A poser and a leper (Daario and Jorah) cross a desert on foot, in the same exact time as the Dothraki. OK, not a big deal. They enter Vaes Dothrak (which is now in an arid wasteland somehow), kill two men for no obvious reason other than risking revealing themselves, and then happen to intercept Daenerys, who has a better idea than sneaking out. You see, her judgement by the Khal council is approaching. So she stands before them, and tells them she will rule the Dothraki. They laugh at her, and then she drops a few braziers. On the ground. On the dirt ground. MAGICALLY, these braziers were secret Napalm bombs brought to Vaes Dothrak from Vietnam, so the fires spread (across the dirt) in milliseconds and envelop the entire giant hut in flames. The Khals try to exit, but Daario and Jorah have killed the guards (in the exact middle of a city with the population density of Bombay where weapons are forbidden) and barricaded the door. The door of a hut made of reed or something, which a small battalion of Conan the Barbarians are completely unable to even try and break. They also allow Daenerys to drop all four Napalms without stopping her, even though she takes surprisingly long breaks between each drop. THEN, the Dothraki, THRILLED that this woman has murdered all their leaders inside their holy city, worship her. You know how everyone just LOVED it when Walder Frey did something similar? Yep, pretty much the same thing.

In other news, Davos finally remembers to ask Melissandre what happened to Stannis, when Brienne shows up with a smug look to inform the two she killed him. She also reveals she knows it was actually Melissandre who killed Renly. But apparently she doesn't feel obliged by her oath to do anything about that, because, hell, do you need a reason?

(PS) Also, all this time nobody in Meereen has noticed Daenerys is missing. It's not like leaving on the back of a dragon in front of a lot of people is something anyone would notice.

Sansa at long last hits her stride!

[RavenGlamDVDCollector · 9/10 · 28 January 2021]

Though I've cheered for Sansa from the beginning, the performance of Sophie Turner just wasn't what it should have been. As a late-comer to GAME OF THRONES I had first seen her in BARELY LETHAL, so I knew she was capable of living up to expectations. Less physical performance in this episode, but with acting that makes her the standout character... Well, till the end, Daenerys of course adds fire in more ways than one...

So, Sansa made it an eight, and Daenerys made it a nine.

Season Six could be the best season yet if this flow goes on

[ojvhakkinen · 10/10 · 16 May 2016]

SPOILER WARNING! Wow, just wow. This episode is one of the best episodes of the series and NOT boring. Opposite of boring. Every scene in this episode has a purpose. Almost every scene is awesome and thrilling. Daenerys' story is again interesting. The North has still the strongest scenes in this episode. Stark reunion, one character death (not big character) and threat letter(!). Ramsay is horrible and true villain. Also King's Landing story builds up to big epic challenges in episodes to come. I think this is even a bit better episode than awesome "Home". If this great flow goes on I think we have the best season of Game of Thrones so far. Even better than season four. Must say again. Wow.

Game of Thrones hits a season high by focusing on its women

[ryanjmorris · 9/10 · 16 May 2016]

"Book of the Stranger" has a tight, clear thematic focus from the first sequence, and this helps to bind the wide array of characters and locations together. This episode was about two things: it was about brothers & sisters, and it was about women focusing on getting what they want. After their wonderfully touching reunion (seriously, if you didn't start welling up I'd suggest you aren't even human), Jon and Sansa sit to discuss both the past and the future. This is brother and sister looking at how they've gotten to where they are, before working out where to go next - except their opinions clash. Jon doesn't want to fight anymore, but Sansa is insistent that they must reclaim Winterfell. Jon refuses to even entertain the idea, until a letter comes from Ramsay stating that he has their younger brother. Sansa pulls Jon around to her side, and they begin their plan to invade and reclaim Winterfell. It's a powerful series of sequences for a number of reasons, but the fact that the episode allows the female character to sway the mind of the male with regards to war makes this all the more important.

This theme of brothers & sisters all resonated in a variety of other stories tonight. We saw Theon return to Yara, as she tells him to stop crying and focus on their future. He tells him he will help her rule the Iron Islands. We had Margaery being permitted to visit her brother Loras in his cell, where she instructs him to stay strong and reminds him that the future of their house relies on him. We have Cersei and Jaime interrupting the small council meeting to discuss the High Sparrow with Kevan and Olenna, yet while it's Jaime who relays the plan to the others, Cersei remains in the frame behind him, and it's not difficult to work out that this is her plan and not his. These stories all focus on the brother & sister relationship, but allow the woman to take centre stage and focus on getting what she desires. The women of Game of Thrones may not actually accomplish much in this episode, but this wasn't an episode about accomplishment: this was an episode about strategy, and about scheming. We see brothers and sisters strategising and scheming together here, but the sister is the one leading the plan. It's a testament to the show's history that this feels fully natural, and not shoehorned in for the sake of a feminist approach. It feels real.

So while Sansa, Yara, Margaery and Cersei focused on beginning their plans, there was one woman who skipped right past the scheming and went straight into putting her plan into action. That woman is, of course, Daenerys Targaryen. After a slow but thoughtful beginning to her season, Dany's narrative has lurched forward with tonight's instalment. She has simultaneously broken free from the Dosh Khaleen, and proved to the entire Dothraki horde that she is a worthy leader. After the episode focused so heavily on female empowerment it was only fitting that it should wrap up with Dany, she is the show's feminist icon after all. As the various Khals taunt and mock Dany after she tells them she would make a better leader to the Dothraki, she sets the temple ablaze to kill them all and emerges from the flames naked and unharmed, as the entire Dothraki army recognise her power and bow to her. It's a powerful and poignant sequence, made even more exciting by the narrative progression it also represents. Emilia Clarke also gives her best performance here in a long time, so calm in the earlier moments yet so controlling and authoritative as the sequence escalates. It's a terrific scene in every last respect, and easily the strongest material of the season thus far.

Not every story managed to fit the brother and sister theme tonight as Tyrion, Varys, Grey Worm and Missandei attempt to persuade the masters of Slaver's Bay to cut off their funding of the Sons of the Harpy and return to the slave-free environment Daenerys set up. While her sequences work to prove that Dany can make a great leader, this sequence also show her flaws in a powerful position: another great thing about this episode's portrayal of women, they're allowed to have flaws and make mistakes but still be just as powerful. This sequence was home to some of the most interesting and thought-provoking dialogue the show has ever offered, especially as Tyrion debates with Grey Worm and Missandei - who plays a large role in the debate, continuing the episode's focus on women. They discuss their differences in tactics in a fittingly intellectual manner, and I cannot wait to see where the show takes these characters next. "Book of the Stranger" is a stellar episode of Game of Thrones, boasting one of the most well plotted and thematically exciting scripts the show has had in a long time, as well as a plethora of powerhouse performances. The only issue is that the bar has really been set high now, and next week has got one hell of a task to live up to this.

Another excellent episode to an excellent season.

[aadhi444 · 16 May 2016]

When I first started watching GoT it is the conversations and the characters that made it such a good show. Then the budget increased from the second season and we got some spectacular action sequences as well. No that I'm complaining. This episode reaffirms that it is the conversations and the characters that make GoT great.

Once again we start the story at the Wall. I thought Jon left the Castle Black in the last episode and I was expecting him to miss the arrival of Sansa. However, for once writers weren't cruel enough to do that. Their meeting was nostalgic and yet poignant to watch. The Starks have been through a lot!!

The resurrection has transformed Jon Snow. He is still the man who does the right thing but his overall faith on humanity has diminished. It did come down to Sansa and the letter from the other bastard to convince him to wield his sword and march for a war. Now that the Lord of Arryn is planning to give his army to help Sansa, it should bolster the wildling army of Jon.

The catching up among Davos, Brienne, and Melisandre was excellent. There was an underling tension among them and that should continue to the rest of the season as well.

The highlight of this episode is Tyrion. He is back at his witty best after a sour episode. In OathBreaker his conversation with Missandei and Grey Worm was cringe worthy and did not add anything valuable to the plot. It was good to see him wield his keen sense of acumen to strike a deal with the Masters.

The entire 11 minutes at Kings Landing was kind of boring. Nothing much happening there. The editors could have trimmed down at least a solid 4 minutes. It appears that the only take away from KingsLanding is Cersie and the Tyrells have buried the hatchet for the time being.

I don't know why people were criticizing the logic of Theon arriving safely to the Pyke. He was armed, he knows the route and he is a big boy. There are many ports in Westreros where he could have got a ticket to sail to the Iron Islands. Anyway what surprised me is the lack of Euron Greyjoy in this episode.

I'm still thinking there is a conspiracy between Osha/Rickon and the Umbers to destroy the Boltons. Sadly Osha had to die trying her best to bring down Ramsay.

Moving on, all the action in this episode were confined to Vaes Dothrak. Age and GreyScale have taken a toll on the physical ability of Ser Jorah Mormont. He and Daario played the role of side-kick to Danny. However the twist is Danny is no longer the damsel in distress. She took the matters in her own hand and used her strength/power/magic to remind us that wait for it.....'FIRE CAN'T KILL HER'. Even though it was reminiscent of the episode 'Fire and Blood' it still had the logical consistency and of course moves the story forward.

Overall, another excellent episode to an excellent season.

+ Jon meets Sansa.

+ Danny gets a bigger army now.

+ Reek to Theon in progress.

+ Tyrion wields his mind again.

• Boring sub-plot at Kings Landing.

• I still don't know what 'Book of the Stranger' is

My rating 9.5/10, so rounding it off to a solid TEN.

Livrr ET

[bevo-13678 · 10/10 · 16 June 2020]

Good one. Really building up to a spectacular finale

Outstanding episode

[yasir619 · 10/10 · 23 July 2019]

Now the real war has just began, Jon is now take over Winterfell and i knew in the end that Khallesi is gonna rule these people again. Great episode so far.

The Queen of Dothrakis

[AvionPrince16 · 8/10 · 26 April 2023]

A nice episode where John expose his wish to leave the night's watch after the betrayal of these mens. But what was really great is to see Sansa and John even if it seem that war is coming because Ramsay is putting pressure to have his wife back and the countdown begin. So what John will do? Stay and fight and take back Winterfell? And give the Stark their power that they lost. Brienne let know to Melissandre and Davos that she killed Stannis. Im pretty sad for Osha because she gets killed at the end by Ramsay. Meanwhile, we have Margaery who see her brother and say to stay strong because they suffering is not gonna end soon for both of them. The walk of attonment is a thing that Tommen and the mother of Margaery who want to avoid for Margaery. Its the return of Littlefinger who manipulate Arryn to execute Royce. The other strong moment is the return of Theon with his sister and he doesnt want to be king but just an assisstant and want his sister to be king. A nice decision! Tyrion's abilities to negotiate is needed when he try to negotiate with the other and to put an end to the negotiations with the Harpy and to put an end to slavery but 7 years later. Thats way too much. What will say Daenerys about this? Im pretty excited to see the confrontation. Jonah, Daario and Daenerys try to get away of Dothrakis. And Daenerys will just show her ability to resist to fire and she will kill the others. She is really gorgeous and i really appreciated her body and her little boobs. Was a great moment visually and what now for Daenerys? Is she gonna lead Meereen and Dothrakis at the same time? What will happen now? And what about Jonah 's sickness? Clearly need to see more.

The queen is always the queen

[ankitdasofficial · 9/10 · 6 July 2020]

The beginning of the episode touched my heart. When I met my loved ones after many conflicts, I felt exactly the same kind of happiness that I felt at that time. Another thing I noticed behind this is how a person can subdue everyone else just by the force of his intellect. But one thing this episode has taught me is that sometimes enemies have to think of friends as well. I also saw how diligent the Queen's Guards could be to save the Queen. Their lives have no value in front of the queen's life. If you do something wrong, it will always be considered wrong, be it the queen of a state or someone else. So what will the king do now? The mother and her honor on the one hand and the wife and her honor on the other. One man changed himself after enduring repeated tortures, but one day he returned home with the courage of another man to help his family. Some people become demons out of greed for power and some people are born as demons. A queen is always a queen. No one has ever been able to bind him, never will. All I can say is that there is an excitement hidden in everything in this episode.

An episode you want to see many times

[a_nikoloyiannis · 10/10 · 18 June 2020]

Another amazing episode, despite the fact that it is in the 6th season and the quality seems to be falling. Lots of interesting scenes and a lot of intensity. I will focus on one of Daenerys' top 10. The setting with the Dothraki leaders is one of the best moments that characterize the quality of the show, but also the excellent playing of the beloved Emilia. You are stunned by the style of dealing with Dothraki's leaders, the expression of devaluation and disgust towards them is one of the best I can remember. That's why I will get stuck many times in this episode and in this scene.

Generally good...

[Leofwine_draca · 7/10 · 25 October 2020]

This episode's a bit better than the last one, a mix of the good and bad overall, although the quality of the writing is still wonky in a couple of scenes; it's a pity to see that Jonathan Pryce has gone from being one of the most fun and engaging characters in the previous series to such a bore here and his lengthy scene really slows things down. Still, there's a lot of good stuff too, from Tyrion trying his hand at negotiation to the long-awaited reunion between Jon and Sansa. The scene with Ramsey is a small but vicious reminder of his character and helps lead us towards the end of this season nicely. The Daenerys storyline feels a little rushed here but that climax is nice fightback against the patriarchy.

Book of the Strange Inconsistencies

[aidricalamea · 2/10 · 3 January 2024]

2/10

Least Bad Part: The Vale. Petyr's now resorted to being solely involved in Sansa's storyline's but he's pretty fun and manipulative here and not stupid so that's a plus..

Worst Part: This is another really tough one but... Vaes Dothrak. Why did you already forget about that Khaleesi you converted to your side in your plan? Why did your plan rely on the Dorhraki being stupid and how did it work? Fire does not work like that, shut up. Wait why do the Dothraki love the woman who just burned down their sacred temple and shed blood in their holy city? None of it makes any sense.

The Iron Islands look awful and feel bad and Yara's a bit weird but it's fine I guess. Sansa's reunion with Jon is really sweet but everything after that is bad. Really, Sansa, you KNOW that Ramsay sent the pink letter and that he has Rickon. Also after Davos asks Melisandre a hard question the writers get out of having to cause that tension to effect the plot until the finale, as Brienne walks up and just tells Davos that she killed Stannis I guess, so that's great. Meereen sucks, Tyrion is being ruined by the writing, the whole situation with the Sons of the Harpy and the Masters in slavers bay is stupid and I'm tired of even thinking about it. Oh my god King's Landing is so boring, why does the High Sparrow need to go on about shoes. I HATE Osha's death, good actors though. In conclusion, this is the second worst episode of the show so far. Hooray!