'Winds of Winter' release date: George R. R. Martin skipping cons to finish book?

"A Song of Ice and Fire" Books 1 to 4 box set[Photo credit: George R.R. Martin website]

George R. R. Martin, author of the famous "A Song of Ice and Fire" book series that spawned the HBO "Game of Thrones" TV show, may not be attending the San Diego Comic-Con and World Fantasy Convention 2015, but for good reason — he just might be able to get "Winds of Winter" out. 

In Martin's "Not a Blog," he stated, "Should I complete and deliver 'The Winds of Winter' before these cons roll round, I reserve the right to change my mind." 

The author has been working on the sixth book of the series since the fifth book, "A Dance with Dragons," was released in 2011.  "Game of Thrones" is starting to catch up with the book series, with the newest season already set to reveal plot lines that haven't been seen in the available books.

Martin's publisher previously noted that the book was not in the company's publishing schedule for 2015. However, that didn't mean it couldn't be completed and released within the year; they just didn't have it scheduled because Martin may or may not have it done. 

The author has also been very clear that he will not allow people to bully him into releasing the book as soon as possible.

"When it is done, I will say that's it is done, on whatever day I happen to finish," Martin stated in a previous blog post. "I don't know how I can make it any clearer." 

Back in 2014, The Hollywood Reporter stated that Martin was already cutting down his public appearances in order to focus on finishing the sixth book. 

Neither Martin nor the publication house has confirmed about the supposed release date for "Winds of Winter" or the possibility that it could be out prior to the two conventions. 

While waiting, fans can enjoy season 5 of "Game of Thrones," set to air starting April 12 on HBO.