[j. d. worthington]

As others have noted, they do generally go to paperback format; especially if it's a popular series such as these by GRRM. In some cases, the hardbound is kept in print even while the mass market pb is released, as there remains a market for both. As I recall from my stint with a bookstore, with something like this it's generally a year to 18 months (average) before the paperback edition is issued.