I've been reading nothing but classics for awhile now and would love a change of pace. I've been hearing great things about George R. R. Martin's 'A Game of Thrones', but I thought that I would stop here first and see what you guys have to say.
Great characterization and development is a must, originality is a huge plus, and I don't care much as to how violent/dark/gritty it is; I'm even willing to read a children's series, if it is up to quality (in fact, Pullman's 'His Dark Materials' trilogy is probably my all-time favorite fantasy series). Gray morality and a villain that can be sympathized would be great, but I can do without.
Thanks in advance!
Along with 'A Game of Thrones', I was also considering 'Perdido Street Station', 'The Name of the Wind', and 'Snow Crash', if anyone would like to vouch for one of those.
Great characterization and development is a must, originality is a huge plus, and I don't care much as to how violent/dark/gritty it is; I'm even willing to read a children's series, if it is up to quality (in fact, Pullman's 'His Dark Materials' trilogy is probably my all-time favorite fantasy series). Gray morality and a villain that can be sympathized would be great, but I can do without.
Thanks in advance!
Along with 'A Game of Thrones', I was also considering 'Perdido Street Station', 'The Name of the Wind', and 'Snow Crash', if anyone would like to vouch for one of those.