Also seconding Redwall, Brandon Sanderson and Terry Pratchett. Robert Jordan likes to tug braids for chapters at a time but there's still good nuggets throughout.

[–] UnderpantsWeevil@lemmy.world 4 points 1 day ago (1 children)

Malazan Book of the Fallen

Flipping through the synopsis and my interest is definitely piqued. Idk if I can do ten big volumes any time soon, but I'll try to remember this if I ever have enormous free time on my hands.

[–] UniversalBasicJustice@lemmy.dbzer0.com 2 points 1 day ago

Its definitely worth the time investment. World building is amazing, very wide variety of character perspectives and motivations. I'll admit, I've never actually finished the series either. I made it to book 8 twice before falling off because you're right, ten massive books is a lot. I do have book 8 on order now, going to start from there this time.

Also if you or anyone reading this comment likes black metal check out Caladan Brood. The project is named after a Malazan character and all the songs on their single album are rooted in various plots from the series.