I have just read A Storm of Swords, and it was wonderful...well, beyond wonderful, really, but there aren't enough words to describe it properly. I cried at least three times.

I always strive for emotional impact. Laughter and tears are the most sincere praise... but your kind words are welcome too.

would ask two questions, if I may. First: Do people ever recognize you at bookstores or the mall?

Well, it happened once... but no, not very often...

Second: In the very last Arya chapter, we see her gain passage using the iron coin. I would assume this ship is going to Eastwatch, her intended destination. Would I be correct in this assumption?

No, the captain is sailing for home.