My wife and I got started on the series last fall, where we watched seasons 1-4 on DVDs checked out from the library, binge-style. We are watching season 5 on the HBO GO app with one episode per week. This season, along with the fact that we slowed down to one episode per week makes the tempo painfully slow. I haven't read the books, so I didn't really have anything to expect. With so much going on and so many details to remember, I'd say that the best way to enjoy the series is a marathon when it's over!