Looking for a magic-y fantasy with some good writing, magical creatures and world-building. GRRM and Robin each had way too much 'torture porn' in their works for me though, so I'd prefer something where an up-and-comer has a heroes journey without too much mental anguish.
Male protagonist would be ideal too, some kind of magical companion and female love interest would be nice as well. That aside I'm fairly open, I've had to slog through some genuinely miserable fantasy books recently.
by EqualizingCurrent