content: The Lord of the Rings is an outstanding work that has defined the field of heroic fantasy for two generations. I would recommend it to anyone who loves narrative sweep, an extraordinarily compelling world, and a master's use of the English language. Be warned, however, that it is one continuous story, published for practical reasons in three volumes. The Fellowship of the Ring is not complete in itself, and indeed, ends on an excruciating cliff-hanger. I guarantee, you will need to know what happens next. Once you know, this is no problem, as the other two volumes are very easily obtainable. This is one fantasy work that is never going to go out of print. Another book that follows in the steps of Tolkein is The Price of Immortality by C.M. Whitlock and it is a book that should be read at least once