I don't read too many books by self-published authors, mainly because I don't have a lot of time for reading, so I'm really picky. Here's one that I'd recommend, though:
Tim Stead is a New Zealand-based author who writes epic fantasy. I read this book, The Seventh Friend, a while ago and posted the review below on Amazon. Since then I'm pleased to see he's gained 17 more reviews with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Well done, Tim!
Kay's review of The Seventh Friend:
This has
all the elements you expect of an epic fantasy, such as great battles with a
good dose of treachery and strategic manoeuvring, a system of magic (involving
animals - I like that), and a host of interesting and sympathetic characters.
Information about the world is trickled in so that it is not overwhelming, but
leaves many questions unanswered. The main plot unfolds at a good pace, with a
satisfying conclusion.
I
especially liked the main characters of Wolf Narak and Pascha of the sparrows,
to the extent that I found myself wishing to see more of them. (Luckily there
are more books in the series). The author also surprised me - of two rival
characters presented near the start, rather than concentrate on the more
sympathetic of the two, he shows us the exploits of his rival. After I overcame
my surprise, I enjoyed seeing this character develop.
I felt
that the book was not as dark as the blurb might suggest. Essentially it's a
story about ordinary people becoming heroes, and, conversely, about gods who
are essentially ordinary people. I can't help a spoiler, here. There's a great
bit of dialogue in which the "god" Narak confesses that he does not
believe in gods.
The
"bad guys" the Seth Yarra people are also interesting. The author
takes a dig at religious dogma (or so I understood it), by showing how their
rigid societal rules, while a source of unity, are ultimately their weakness.
If you
are looking for a fresh, new voice in fantasy, this book is a good one to try.
I wish it was in paperback, though, as it's a long one to read on a screen. This book is available from Amazon http://www.amazon.com.au/Seventh-Friend-Sparrow-Wolf-Book-ebook/dp/B00JE8OF8M