I really liked Fool on the Hill by Matt Ruff, and am in the midst of finishing his other book, Sewer, Gas, and Electric.

My comfort books are mainly by Tamora Pierce, which you'd know if you recognised my handle. ;)

Someone else recommended Zelazny, but didn't specifically say Lord of Light, which is one of my favourites and completely worthwhile.

I also recommend Joel Rosenberg's stuff: D'Shai and Hour of the Octopus, especially. Also good is The Keepers of the Hidden Ways series: The Fire Duke, The Silver Stone, and The Crimson Sky.

Yes, I *do* read serious literature. I just don't like any of it. I'm so sad.