[khazaddum]

let me also recommend Patrick Rothfuss (as many others have also done). His style is almost Dickensian, and lyrical, which makes the reading experience smooth and pleasant while telling an engaging story. The Name of the Wind and The Wise Man's Fear are the best fantasy I've read so far, if not as "epic" or grandiose as Tolkien... it's picaresque. It's not complete yet BUT the two published installments are quite voluminous and should keep you busy before the last one comes out this year.