As the popular HBO series 'Game of Thrones' approaches George R.R. Martin's latest novel in the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, fans of the fantasy television drama series as well as the author's novels are now keenly awaiting the release of the sixth novel in the series - "The Winds of Winter."

Christian Today quotes the author telling Entertainment Weekly in an interview last month that it has always been important for him to get "The Winds of Winter" published before the 'Game of Thrones' Season 6 is aired next spring.

Martin told the publication, "I wish it was out now," adding, "Maybe I'm being overly optimistic about how quickly I can finish. But I canceled two convention appearances. I'm turning down a lot more interviews - anything I can do to clear my decks and get this done."

Earlier on March 16, Martin posted a blog on his Not a Blog aplogizing to his fans who hoped to see him at the World Fantasy Convention in Saratoga, which is scheduled for November 2015. He wrote that he was cancelling his appearance at the event since he has lots to do.

"Too many things on my plate. Son of Kong foremost among them," the author stated. For the uninitiated, Son of Kong is an inside joke that Martin uses to talk about "The Winds of Winter" on his blog.

At the same time, Martin revealed that he would also not be attending the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con. In fact, Martin has remained a major support for HBO's 'Game of Thrones' panel since 2010.

Martin, however, mentioned in his blog post that may possibly make an appearance at the Comic-Con provided he completes writing the book before the conventions. "I reserve the right to change my mind," he added.