'The Winds of Winter' release date news: George R.R. Martin says novel might finally hit the shelves this year

It has been over a year since George R.R. Martin delivered the bad news regarding the delay of his novel, "The Winds of Winter." Twelve months after, the famed author is sounding more optimistic about the chances that the book finally rolls out this year.

Following a lengthy post on his online journal in which Martin talked about his weekly ramblings and the recently held Golden Globes, the writer apparently took the time to check the barrage of comments that his update generated. While majority of the fan messages stuck to the topic that he talked about and did not blatantly ask about "The Winds of Winter," one particular fan politely, albeit cleverly, queried him about his progress.

In the comment section, a fan with the user J Snow suggested another update from Martin given "it has been a whole year since" the last one. "Even if [it's] as simple as, 'not done yet, but [I've] made progress (or not) ', or ' it'll be out this year (or not)'. Anything (or not). Either way, have a great new year, and thank you for, imo, the best fantasy series out there," he wrote.

The "Game of Thrones" author did not miss the placating tone in the message, which he reciprocated with a reply laced with his own version of sarcasm. Needless to say, J Snow's scheme was ultimately effective as Martin divulged some tidbits regarding his writing process.

"Not done yet, but I've made progress," he answered. "But not as much as I hoped a year ago when I thought to be done by now. I think it will be out this year. (But hey, I thought the same thing last year.)"

Just like Martin, many fans turned theorists believe that "The Winds of Winter" is already ripe for release sometime this year — hopefully before "Game of Thrones" season 7 make its way to HBO this summer. But at this point, no one really knows the supposed release date except for Martin and presumably his editors despite them claiming that they do not have any idea as well. The book is still a money-making machine and regardless of how popular it is, it is still considered a business that follows marketing timelines so timing is crucial.