For those of you looking for a good read (and what better time to pick up or ask for a new book than X-mas time!
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The Dark Tower Series and The Stand by Stephen King: Now don't go dismissing these because they're Stephen King. He creates richly detailed worlds with strong characters and vile villains. They are both wonderful fantasy reads! Highly recommended!
A Song of Fire & Ice Series by George RR Martin: Excellent! Rich and densely plotted. This is by no means a series for those who are faint of heart. Lots of plot twists and adult themes.
Gates of Fire by Stephen Pressfield: Not a fantasy book but I include it here because it was one of the few books I've read that provided me with the same emotional impact that TCTC did. It's historical fiction and recounts the final days of Sparta leading up to the battle of Thermopylae where 300 Spartans fought against 100,000 Persians. Heroic, inspiring, moving! It's the Bloodguard vs. Foul's entire army!