Currently back to the Malazan Book of the fallen series by Steven Erikson.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malazan_Book_of_the_Fallen
On book 7 "Reaper's Gale" (1200 pages of goodness here I come lol)
One of, if not the most, complex work of fiction I've ever read. Each book throws the reader into a foreign setting and expects you to keep your head above water long enough to catch your breath and get your stride and finally get moving in the right direction. It's not what I'd personally call an "easy" read or beach book…plenty of those out there if that's what you're in the mood for…I know I certainly like a Koontz or King book every now and then myself
But if you want a work (10 main volumes with the last book getting ready to print) that will challenge you and allow you to experience a world so complex and amazing, a work that makes you study the names and histories and cultures of race you've never heard of, that will leave you breathless at times and furious and sad and joyful…a work that will actually change you for it's reading (imo for the better) then this amazing journey/work is for you!
It has become my standard by which all other works of fiction compare…there simply is not another Epic series that I'm aware of that that hits the mark so consistently and completely. (Tolkien, Martin, Jordan, Donaldson, Williams…all shine as standard bearers…but Erikson is clearly the Captain imo")
Gardens of the Moon is your ticket to a world you never would of imagined was there. And after reading, you'll never want to leave lol
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gardens_of_the_Moon
The first book (Gardens) really caught my attention and I enjoyed it quite a bit, but the 2nd book "
Deadhouse Gates" solidified my fist impression and left me completely shocked and amazed at what I had stumbled across. No book has moved me with it's narrative and characters like this book did…and I've been reading for a good while now lol (44 yrs young btw)
So if you want something that will challenge you and entertain and amaze in equal parts give Gardens a go and begin your journey
Regards