I’m new to the fantasy community, but I’m glad to see it here on Lemmy as well! I would say my favorite novel/series so far has been Mistborn, but it’s kind of the only one I’ve read so far (although it was fantastic). I’d like to gauge all of your responses too!

  • Earthsea by Ursula K. Leguin - in addition to interesting plots and well-developed characters, Earthsea spends a lot of time philosophizing on the conflicts that arise from human nature and how better moral systems might improve life. Lots of deep thought here.

    Discworld by Terry Pratchett - another philosophizer here, but this time with humor. Most of the books stand well on their own, so don’t feel like you have to commit to a 30 book series to enjoy them.

    Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien - the standard that modern fantasy is measured by. Not much to say here that hasn’t been said before. A classic.

    The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold - a broken man recovers himself as he investigates a mysterious threat. May appeal to Kaladin fans (Stormlight).

    Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson - my favorite of the Cosmere books so far. If you like Mistborn, this is the obvious follow up.

    The Girl who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill - Aimed at younger readers, but well-written enough for adults to enjoy as well. I love the deep care expressed by the protagonists, and how it pushes them to reexamine the assumptions they grew up with.

    Digger by Ursula Vernon - a graphic novel that deservdly won the Hugo and yet hardly anyone knows about. You can even read it for free online at http://diggercomic.com/