Your request reminded me of something.

I'm about to re-read Shogun. It's part of The Asian Saga. It might not be your style, but I like James Clavell. I haven't read all the books, but so far they're great. Really rich in story line and character.

The books are loosely linked, mostly by genealogy, as they take place over a span of 300 years. Still, they all follow the theme of a Europeans in Asia and the dynamic of the two cultures.

If you want something more light and fast to read, maybe Artemis Fowl. I haven't tried it, but have heard good things.

The Legend of the Seeker is a good series.