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Okay, i want to start by saying that I am sure this has been asked a thousand times and that a lot depends on a person's preference, but here goes.

I have always been intrigued by the fantasy genre, but the only books of this genre that I have read are JK's HP. I have decided I would like to dive into it and am wondering what to start with. I haven't even read the LOTR trilogy but have seen all the movies and am hesitant to read the books now because I already know the eventual outcome. (I think this may take away from the reading enjoyment, but I could be wrong.)

To give an idea of what I think I would like, I think I will like epic fantasy such as GRRM or WoT, but I am not sure if that is the best kind of fantasy to start with, being a newbie and all. Also I don;t know whether to wait until all books in a series to read or eagerly await each new installment like HP. I have read many threads on this subject, but most seem to be a little outdated and I want some fresh ones.

Thanks for the suggestions and input.

I would recommend The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch.

Shannara Series by Terry Brooks

The Crown Conspiracy by Michael J. Sullivan

It is the first of a six book series, the second is due out in April, so you will have to wait like HP. But this is a great book by a new author. Easy to read, fast-paced, with twists and great characters.

Check out his website at: http://www.michaelsullivan-author.com/

The sword of truth series by Terry Goodkind, some of my favorites but be warned the books are long and there a lot of them so its a bit of a commitment.

I'm going to suggest the Xanth series by Piers Anthony. They're quick and simple reads, but entertaining nonetheless. A bit of warning though, they contain an ungodly amount of puns.

loladarling wrote:The sword of truth series by Terry Goodkind, some of my favorites but be warned the books are long and there a lot of them so its a bit of a commitment.

I would also recommend the Sword of Truth series. I've read most of it and can attest that the series is an excellent read. And it really is lighthearted despite having some very serious topics. Be warned that there is violence and some gore.

I'd also recommend His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman (Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife, The Amber SpyGlass)

Robert Heinlein would also be a good choice. (Have Spacesuit--Will Travel, etc.) Though Heinlein borders more on sci-fi.

Not traditional fantasy, but Winter's Tale by Mark Helprin might fit the bill. He's wordy but his books are magical. Winter's Tale is my all-time favorite book, ever. I've read it a few times (it's really long) and always keep it by my bedside to pick up from time to time -- even just reading a favorite few pages is amazing. Great book.

Wow these are all great suggestions I'm going to have to check 'em out.

If you enjoyed the likes of HP and are ever looking to break away from the epic fantasy novels for a change, try Terry Pratchetts Discworld series for a bit of lighthearted fun. I haven't found a book of his yet that hasn't made me laugh out loud.

Shanarra series, Sword of Truth series, and Eye of the World series are all must reads. I would also read LotR - yeds oyu know the outcomes, but there is a ton of stuff the movie couldn't begin to touch on.

Now my ultimate, you have to read it or else suggestion is:

Guy Cavriel Kay's - The Fionava Tapestry - it is a trilogy and it is my favourite trilogy of all time. Real great stuff.

Hi friend
I would recommend you
Shannara Series by Terry Brooks.

Hey folks, first post, how exciting heh


I have to agree, but slightly disagree with The Sword of Truth series. I would read the first 3 in the series, then let it go. They get extremely repetitive as if goodkind was just trying to sell books on the "Sword of Truth" name past the 3rd one.

Ones I would recommend, and both of these trilogies are out so you wont have to wait.

1) The Farseer Trilogy - Robin Hobb
2) The Tawny Man Trilogy - Robin Hobb

both deal with the same characters, and I've read them 3 times, and will read them a lot more in the future when I get the craving.

Easily my favorite fantasy of all time.

I didn't see anyone mention The Icewind Dale Trilogy and The Dark Elf trilogy and so on, all the Drizzt series of books, The Cleric Quintet as well. All RA Salvatore books.

There's also Enders Game, Enders Shadow, and a slew of other books by Orson Scot Card that are just really easy, and really good books.

Hope it helps!

You can read the following:

The Magic Lands Beyond by Richard Knight

The Rainbow Warrior by Charis & Carlos Mundy

Id definitly recommend Robin Hobb's Farseer Trilogy. Terry Pratchets discworld is also fantastic and i recommend Raymond E Feist's Magician