I'm back to the Second Chronicles of Thomas Covenant by Stephen R. Donaldson - I bought the first 3 books in the Final Chronicles, so I'll probably start those right away after. With every book there's a leap in the quality of his writing, from the plot to his usage of description and metaphors. Despite the fact that many could find the main characters, Thomas Covenant and Linden Avery, very unlikeable, I find that their reactions to their own internal despair deeply engaging, and the mission they're on to save the Land is full of excitement and adventure (albeit adventures that are often of a grim and deadly sort). Donaldson has a whole host of varied and fascinating secondary characters, but where he really shines is in the development of the turmoil of his main characters, and the many conflicting beliefs and desires that arise within them. Their struggle against Despite is all the more poignant as they attempt to overcome their own damaged souls and personae, which to me is the true centerpiece and theme of the series. A much deeper fantasy saga than most.