re: Recommend a Sci-Fi/Fantasy series for a complete newb.

Not noticeable in the one i read but i don't really pay attention to that a ton. For example lots of people complained about the socialism / anti-capitalist themes in Malazan series, but it never really bothered me much.

Its a quick and very fast paced read. Also a very unique story for me since i don't read a ton of sci-fi (more fantasy usually). Definitely check out the foundation trilogy (foundation, foundation and empire, second foundation).