The books are written so differently in comparison to LOTR it's insane. They may be both in the 'Fantasy' genre, but Tolkien and Martin, as writers, have completely different styles. I prefer Martin's, as even though I love the Lord of the Rings, Tolkien can't half waffle on for ******* PAGES describing something.
Martin's just ruthless, no character is safe
Enjoy them dude! I know you will.