The release date for the final books still appears to be nowhere in sight. Martin’s publicist announced the delay this morning, explaining that the beloved fantasy author went to get a drink while working on the final draft of The Winds of Winter , but is now waiting in line at the water fountain while a man fills his 40-ounce Nalgene bottle. George R.R. Martin doesn’t need to be pestered about Winds of Winter. George RR Martin on Winds of Winter the author is determined to release the new book when the time is right. George R.R. Martin Is as Pissed About His ‘Winds of Winter’ Writer’s Block as You Are George R.R. Martin has an update on his highly anticipated fantasy book 'The Winds of Winter' (sort of). That release date passed and George R.R. Martin promised the book would be released by 2017. That year passed. With any luck, fans will finally have a completed version of The Winds of Winter cavW9.