A Game of Thrones, by George R.R. Martin

This is a series that my Brother-in-Law Kendall first clued me in to. It's remeniscent of Tolkein in it's sword and sorcery, it's emphasis on war and political infighting. Although it's odd to say it, it almost feels larger in scope than the Rings series. Where Tolkein followed the course of multiple characters, his story was really the tale of just 2, and it was told from a 3rd person perspective. Martin's tale follows the path of over 10 separate characters, with each chapter switching 1st person narration between them all. While this may sound confusing or convoluted, it's not. The narration is linear and comprehensive. And the characters are unique and fascinating. They are flawed and intriguing. This story limits the fantastical aspects, focusing more on character development and interplay, and politics. Martin took a number of years to write the first four books in this series, but by the time I heard about them, they were all published and available, with a fifth book already being marketed for release. I went online and reserved a copy of that fifth book, eagerly awaiting it's release - back in November of 2008. The release date was pushed back so many times, I lost count. All I know is that over 2 years later, it still hasn't been published.
But there is a television series coming out on HBO in April. I've heard that the amount of money being put into the project is incredible. They're shooting overseas and treating the production almost as if it were a big budget movie. And the casting looks great. They have Sean Bean (Boramir from the Rings movies) playing one of the lead roles. If the series is half as great as the source material, it'll certainly be worth a watch.
I reccommend this series to anyone and everyone.