Start here with fantasy

Fantasy has a reputation for being a twelve-book obligation. It does not have to be.

A Wizard of Earthsea is short and complete. The Hobbit is still the friendliest door into a bigger map. Circe is myth with a kitchen in it. If you want courts and consequences, Assassin's Apprentice will take care of you for a long time.

Leave The Wheel of Time until you actually want The Wheel of Time.