Here are some suggestions based on different aspects of "epic":
Epic in Scope and Detail:
* "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien (still a modern classic): This is the granddaddy of epic fantasy, with its vast world, complex characters, and themes of good vs. evil, sacrifice, and hope.
* "A Song of Ice and Fire" by George R.R. Martin: A sprawling fantasy saga, known for its intricate political machinations, realistic portrayal of violence, and morally grey characters.
* "The Wheel of Time" by Robert Jordan: Another fantasy series with a massive cast, a intricate world, and a complex plot.
* "The Stand" by Stephen King: A post-apocalyptic epic that explores themes of good vs. evil, faith, and survival in a world ravaged by a deadly plague.
* "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak: This historical fiction novel tells the story of a young girl in Nazi Germany, exploring themes of courage, compassion, and the power of stories.
Epic in Themes and Ideas:
* "Cloud Atlas" by David Mitchell: A mind-bending novel that explores interconnectedness across time and space, dealing with themes of identity, reincarnation, and the power of stories.
* "The Power" by Naomi Alderman: This speculative fiction novel explores the ramifications of women developing a unique and powerful ability, raising questions about power, gender roles, and societal change.
* "The Underground Railroad" by Colson Whitehead: A powerful and moving story about a young woman who escapes slavery via the Underground Railroad, exploring the horrors of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit.
* "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro: A poignant and reflective story about an aging butler in post-war England, exploring themes of memory, regret, and the human cost of duty.
* "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood: A dystopian classic, exploring themes of gender, control, and resistance in a totalitarian regime where women are stripped of their rights.
Modern Classics with Epic Elements:
* "The Ocean at the End of the Lane" by Neil Gaiman: A haunting and surreal novel that blends fantasy and reality, exploring themes of childhood, grief, and the power of imagination.
* "Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell" by Susanna Clarke: An epic fantasy set in Regency England, focusing on the revival of magic in a world that has forgotten it.
* "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco: A historical mystery set in a medieval monastery, exploring themes of truth, knowledge, and the power of books.
* "The Count of Monte Cristo" by Alexandre Dumas (originally published in the 1800s but still a modern classic): A classic tale of revenge, justice, and redemption.
* "The Odyssey" by Homer (an ancient epic, but still resonating today): A timeless story of adventure, love, and homecoming.
Remember: This list is just a starting point. There are many other modern novels that could be considered epic, depending on your personal definition of the term. It's worth exploring different genres and authors to find books that resonate with your own sense of what makes a story epic.