Ok, for sci-fi lovers I cannot recommend Red Rising (3 book series), by Pierce Brown highly enough. I've just started in the genre and am admidittly a newbie. But, it is the best sci-fi series I've read this far. Better than Dune, Gap Cycle, I think arguably The Expanse and a few others I've delved into and can't remember the names at the moment.
It has everything. Great characters, plot, pace and enough twists and turns to make you never want to put the books down. I was really, really surprised and enjoyed the hell out of it. If you like sci-fi, please, for me check it out. Its also complete, such is a plus.
Fantasy. I've read a ton this year. Not gonna mention Bakker, because that goes without being said.
Josiah Bancroft's Tower of Babel, which currently has two books published out of the trilogy, is quite honestly the best and most unique (unique as in all time unique) books I've read all year. He's self-published, which I look at as a huge plus. Trust me, this isn't original fantasy and you won't be disappointed. He could finish the trilogy, and write in this setting for years, like Bakker. Just so much to explore. I have a feeling when the series is done, fans will be pining for more, just like us Bakker fans....yea, that good.
My second recommendation would be Miles Cameron, Traitor Son Cycle. I think 5 books, series complete. More of a traditional fantasy. But, an awesome magic system (and lets admit, a well read fantasy reader loves a good magic system.), great characters (and I mean great, internal conflict, external conflict, the whole nine yards.), plot is awesome, setting is second to none. And, like Bakker religion is central to the story. Maybe not in the same way, but doubt plays a huge part. I've read a ton of fantasy, not much you can name I haven't read. Top 5 without a doubt.
By no means will you like these stories and I'm not guaranteeing you will. Just out of what I've read this year, these are my favorites. And, I wish others would give them a shot. None of them are dummy books. All of them are thinker books, and that's why I recommended them. I know the audience here and I know you guys are a rough crowd to please. Just looking to give you some options while we inevitably wait on The No God. Cheers my friends! I hope you trust my tastes and what I feel are quality books that will keep you wanting more.
Sincerely,
MSJ