As the title suggests, a civil war rages in "A Clash of Kings." Cersei's sadistic young son Joffrey takes the throne, while both of Robert's younger brothers, Stannis and Renly, make their own claims on the throne with the help of various allies. In the North, Robb Stark declares the region's independence, while his younger sisters, Sansa and Arya, find themselves in precarious situations. Sansa is held hostage by the Lannisters under the guise of her "engagement" to Joffrey. Meanwhile, Arya flees the chaos undercover, and learns of a secret brotherhood.
Far to the north, Jon Snow is ordered to infiltrate the society of "wildlings" who live beyond the wall, but deals with unexpected results in the process. Across the sea, Daenerys — now the "mother" of three newly hatched dragons — encounters new obstacles in her quest to build power.