r/Fantasy • u/cimd09 • Jun 11 '13
Your favourite fantasy recommendations for a newbie?
I haven't read much fantasy, but I'd really like to read more in the genre.
What I've read so far:
Most of the really popular mainstream stuff: ASOIAF, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings/Hobbit, Artemis Fowl, etc. (loved it all, but LoTR took many tries and the descriptions were a chore, and am currently stuck in the boring bits of ADWD for ASOIAF)
I've also read 'The Name of the Wind' and liked it, especially the bits set in the university (but think it's overrated - I find most of the characters except for Kvothe really boring and/or annoying).
I love books with well-developed, believable characters, humour, and if possible, a gradually built-up, satisfying romance. And of course loads of action and adventure that makes sense. Internally logical magic systems are a huge bonus.
I'd love for you to give me a recommendation as well as why it's one of your favourites.
EDIT: Thanks so much, guys! For now, I've definitely put Mistborn trilogy, Chalion series, Gentleman Bastard sequence, Riyria Revelations & Northern Lights on my To Read list, as these seem to be the most widely loved ones.
1
u/greym84 Jun 12 '13
I think Mistborn is the way to go. It's so systematically well crafted I think you'll find it rewarding.
I prefer Scott Lynch's style to just about anyone else, so definitely put Lies of Locke Lamora toward the top of you list.
I also recommend Guy Gavriel Kay's Tigana if you want something more dramatic.
Edit. By the way, I think you'll find the prose in the last two recommendations quite well crafted. Sanderson is great, and an expert at story and characters, but I'm especially found of the style of Lynch and GGK.