I'm super excited!
I love both books and show. GRR Martin has a big background in screenplays, so I think he wrote books that translate well into TV and if he is involved in the translation, I think he'll keep the essence of the books intact.
Personally, I think the first three seasons of True Blood were much better than the books. Then the fourth season got just as convoluted and sloppy as the novels. They are both still a lot of fun, but I don't think the Sookie novels are some great work on their own.
Favourite characters in GoT for me:
1) The Imp - Tyrion Lannister is amazing both in the book and as portrayed by Peter Dinklage.
2) Danerys - I love strong women storylines
3) Cersei Lanister - she is such an incredible evil bitch, but with some seriously twisted background stories - I love to hate her!