One of the best stories in fantasy
935847
"A Song for Arbonne" proves that a slow pace is not necessarily a bad thing. It's a story about how the resolution of one international conflict leads to another one, about culture differences being used to justify war, about loyalty and treason. It's about two noblemen who hate each other because they both loved a woman who died a long time ago. According to certain fantasy-reading experts at [...] Guy Gavriel Kay hasn't ever written a bad book. His weakest stories are his earliest ones in The Fionavar Tapastry, and even those are pretty good. Every book he's written since has hit the ball out of the park. I've read, and can recommend: Tigana, The Lions of Al-Rassan, and A Song for Arbonne.
2759727
The characters in Tolkien's story are lively and likeable as well as realistic in regards to personality and traits.  The story telling is fantastic and detailed.  Tolkien talks through third person, but uses the character Bilbo Baggins as a conveyor for the story line.  The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien is a story I would recommend to anyone, whether fantasy fiction is their gig or not.
Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit.  He belongs to a quiet folk who enjoy a good meal to eat and a pipe to smoke.  As Bilbo is doing just this one morning, an old acquaintance who happens to be a wizard named Gandalf comes calling.  Gandalf brings with him a band of dwarves who seem to have no where else to stay, and Bilbo can only be hospitable.  The dwarves, led by an "enormously important dwarf" named Thorin Oakenshield, impose upon Bilbo, invading his home and eating his food, but in turn offering jovial company, great stories and song singing.  Soon, however, the dwarves reveal their purpose for their unexpected visit.  They wish for Bilbo to accompany them on their treasure hunt . . .
I charish this novel for several reasons.  One reason I enjoy this story so much is because there is no beating around the bush; everything is "one-two-three go".  There is no long introduction in the story's beginning that will take sense away from the story if you do not read it, like in many fantasy novels.  I also enjoy the way Tolkien writes verse and poetry and riddles into his story.  When the dwarves come to Bilbo's home, they sing songs about treasure.  While on the road, elves are overheard singing as they travel through the forest, as well as goblins.  Later, when Bilbo encounters the infamous Gollum, they exchange several riddles.  Tolkien is a talented poet as well as a story teller.  Most of all, however, I enjoy the quaint humor and almost over-abundant common sense of Mr. Baggins.  He is a delightful character to read, and he makes Tolkien's novel a gem to be treasured.
1529588
This is something rare. The Hobbit is both a great story for younger children, as well as an interesting tale for adults. The characters are great, Bilbo and the Dwarves being just one example. The world is in-depth and very magical (well duh, it IS Tolkien after all). The story keeps you interested and having fun, and the book itself isn't even lacking in action. Now, don't hate me when I say this, but I actually think this book is better than the Lord of the Rings. That's not to say I don't think LotR is good, but I think this book is a lighter read, and more geared towards everyone. I for one cannot wait for the movie to come out, and I will be rereading this very soon.
85576
I was looking at the ages this is recommended for 9-12?  What?!  This is one of the most serious Fantasy series I have ever read.  Weis and Hickman have created a VERY rich and complex world that I personally feel would be above most adults nevermind children.  I am not saying they couldn't get anything out of the story, but this is not your average children's tale, let me tell you. I love this book, the world of magic is like a dream that slowly decends into nightmare, but you remember the dream, and you almost want it to continue on, even at the expense of the characters.  I am not sure if Simkin is introduced in this book, I haven't read them in a while, but if you read the series only for him, you will not go away disappointed.  To this day I quote him and he always brings a smile to my face.  I actually don't like the later books as much because too much "reality" ends up destroying the "dream."  It's very sad the end, but worth getting to.
1145710
The tale of Kvothe was the most interesting read I have read in the last 10 years. Patrick Rothfuss is well on his way (if not already) to become one of the greatest fantasy writers of our time. I immediately noticed the quality in his writing style from page 1. The story is compelling, and I don't just regard it as just a great fantasy novel, but one of the best character stories that I've ever read.

You could get the full synopsis of the book elsewhere I'm sure, but in short, it is about a man who was somewhat of a prodigy and legend, but now appears to have left his past life behind, and he tells his story of how he became an unrivaled swordsman, musician, and a kingkiller. The story is not overblown with fantastical creatures or events, but rather implements a touch of realism to the fantasy scene.

I couldn't put this book down when I started reading it in 2008. However it was a mistake to start reading the trilogy back then. It took until 2011 for the 2nd book to come out, and I'm STILL waiting on the 3rd. It's tough to have the patience for these books to come out, but man is it worth it. I would rather have Rothfuss come out with a perfect book in 10 years I guess than rush to get 1 out every year. So if you want a quality read, one of the best stories you'll read in the foreseeable future, The Name of the Wind is for you. If you are the impatient sort though, maybe wait until the 3rd book comes out before you start reading.
3019520
This story is one to get caught up in. The characters are well-developed, allowing the reader to relate to each one. The story is unique enough that it stands alone amongst fantasy novels. Also, the grammar and spelling is top-notch (if you happen to be a reader with a poor editing pet peeve).
690316
Although this book is 28 years old, it still one of the best in the fantasy genre and has inspired many other writers.

Story
Fragile alliances among human kingdoms deteriorate as an army of demons, goblins, vampires, and other foul creatures plan a massive invasion.
Conceptually, it is similar to a Song of Ice and Fire by George RR Martin.  While you're waiting for GRRM to finish his series, this is a great way to pass the time!

World
The human kingdoms are similar to medieval Europe, with one exception.  In the south, there's a land of shadow full of nightmarish creatures.  The creatures are held at bay by a line of magical towers, an ancient race of magic users, and the bravery of the men on the borderlands.  The world is complex, dark, and rich in history and tradition.  Hey, in GRRM's book there's a nation of creatures held at bay in the north by a wall of ice.  Go figure.

Writing Style
This is a complex book that fans of world building will enjoy.  You can't really skim this book.  You really need to read it and comprehend what's going on.  There are many strong characters and a complicated web of alliances which change as the story progresses... kinda like GRRM's books.

Characters
There are noble monarchs, valiant heroes, despicable villains, and great evil.  Overall, you'll want to root for the guys that you are supposed to root for and root against the villains.  Although, the characters are very good, they seem to take a back seat to the events that are happening in the world.

Action
There's loads of graphic violence throughout the book.  Men fight Men.  Men fight demons.  Demons fight men.  Mages fight demons.  Demons eat people.  Demons even eat other Demons.

Maturity
This is for young adults and adults.  There are complex plots and themes, graphic violence, and sex.
Kind of like GRRM's books.

Overall
This is a classic tale that spans an entire fantasy world.  It's a great book.
Although, the first 30 pages may suffer from fantasy overload as many different kingdoms and rulers are mentioned, the book becomes more focused about a third of the way through and becomes easier to follow.  Once the main character story arcs are revealed, this becomes a page turner.

Read it if you like dark fantasy, GRRM, Classic fantasy, and deep worlds.
Avoid it if you like simple stories, happy books, or anything related to Twilight.
4077103
As the title states, one of the greatest fantasy books ever. It is interesting and unique. Many mysteries that need to be unveiled and many cool scenes of magic users (and a great system for magic!)Has a lot of great characters and many memorable scenes. Trust me, this review isn't going to do any justice. Buy the book and read it.
4700709
This is a masterfully written work of art.  I was quickly drawn into the story and easily identified with the characters who easily came to life in my mind as I read it.  It took me back to the first time I read the Dragonlance stories, and like them, once I started I couldn't put it down.
If there was anything I would change about this story, it would be that this first book was longer.  I have heard that the second book is already well on its way and I can't wait for it to get here.  If you are looking for a good fantasy to get lost in, this is the book for you.  I highly recommend it.
2806220
While some may poo-poo  it because it is not the Next Great American Novel, this book is fantastic at being what it is- a delicious fantasy story. Author Sarah J. Maas has accrued many fans with her (also fun) series, Throne of Glass; this story is, in my opinion, even better. The characters are flawed, and nuanced. The main character in particular has suffered some major things in her life, and that has very obviously shaped her. Her growth then feels pretty natural. The world Maas has created seems ver in-depth and even if we are not always told all the rules of it, they are clearly there. She leaves you feeling there is more to explore- both within the world, with conflicts i the story and within the characters themselves- while at the same time telling a very satisfying story in this one volume.

Some may feel the story seems a bit familiar- it is a retelling/fusion of three fairy tales- Beauty and the Beast, Thomas the Rhymer, Tamlin, along with shades of a few other familiar tales. However, Maas brings something new to the table in all of these, so don't get too comfortable thinking you already know the endings!

Last, as a warning- It does get a bit steamy, so if you are considering this book for minors, you may want to consider that. It is not graphic, but neither is it fade-to-black.
3656973
In the Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings Trilogy Tolkien has done more than spin a great story.  Few of the reviewers that I have read here would disagree with this statement.  However, there are many statements about how  it's "hard to believe it's pure fantasy."  With this I must take  exception:  Tolkien was first and foremost a scholar.  His mastery of the  myths and legends of the historical peoples of the British Isles is second  to none.  He weaves his fantasy amidst the threads of the very real myths  already in existence.  His genius is not in inventing an entirely new  fantastic mythology, but in weaving a beautiful tapestry of a  mythologically- based fantasy.  The elements of Middle Earth are very much  set in the real myths of the Middle Ages.  His genius lay in the linking of  these various myths into a comprehensive whole on which to base his  fanciful tale.  It is a solid base that speaks to us on a fundamental level  that transcends mere story-telling.  Any educated person would do well to  read this series on a yearly basis.  Each time said person would find new  aspects of reality reflected within the pages of this fanciful tale.
3163499
I have read a lot of fantasy in my time and it is rare to come across a story that is truly original. The world Robin Hobb has created in this series is unlike any I've seen, the magic is subtle and the characters are alive. After reading the Farseer trilogy (also by Robin Hobb), I couldn't wait to get my hands on more of her books. This one was as good. The characters Robin creates are real people, they don't always behave the way you expect them to, they make mistakes and they evolve based on what has happened to them. None of the characters are completely good or completely evil, and they don't fit into classic stereotypes.
This series is actually placed in the same world as the Farseer trilogy and there are a few subtle ties to that story (which is fun if you've read it). If you find you like Robin Hobb's style, you should really consider listening to her works in order. Each trilogy stands alone, but is made better if read in the right order. Start with the Farseer trilogy, next is the Liveship Traders, then the Tawny Man, and finally the Rainwild chronicles. If on the other hand, you are only going to read one set...this one stands alone the best. It is impossible to stop reading until you've reached the end.
11369
One of my all time favorite fantasy tales! Tolkien is unbeatable!
2393119
All the books in Kevin Hearne's Iron Druid Chronicles have been very enjoyable so far.  Kevin has a talent for taking mythology and his take on the Druids and weaving them into an excellent story.  Small details, such as Thor being an unmitigated jerk, and the strong friendship between the main character and his dog (a character in his own right), make the story leap to life.  Read this if you like fantasy.  Try reading it anyway if you don't usually like reading fantasy.
750499
This is an amazing story. It has everything you need to stay interested. High level fantasy, with great dialogue and timing. Never boring and I found it very hard to put down. The story revolves around a Grand Tournament devised to decide one winner out of thousands. Descriptive fighting technique, interspersed with a fantastic storyline. This guy can flat out write.
456054
This book is one of my favorites. Tolkien's storytelling is some of the best I have ever read, and this exceeded all my expectations. I love continuing to come back to this book every few years.
2714633
Except for "Adept's Gambit," a very early story by Leiber, all of the tales here are among the best short stories I have read in fantasy  fiction.  While Leiber's style of writing at time leans towards being a  trifle florid, he nonetheless offers some of the most richly phrased  descriptive narrative and inventive characters and settings one could find,  and I think one would be hard-pressed to call any of his work tiring or  lacking imaginative interest.  These stories belong on the shelf of any  serious fantasy reader, so I am sad to see they've gone out of print.