50 books to read before you die discussion

Hi All ... am tired of reading shortish books, which lack depth and character development. Any ideas for a longish novel, which is still good? Ones of read (by way of example) are: Stephen Kings The Stand (and others), Pillars of the Earth, Papillon, River God. Open to a few genres from horror, mystery, thriller, drama, even some spice can be good. I particularly like Kings style of writing, good sense of humour etc. And please, nothing containing ‘as if’ moments (ie, moments that are meant to be taken seriously, but just wouldnt happen). Thanks in advance.

I meant ‘epic’* book.

Try Fall of Giants by Ken Follett.

For one that's topical, try The Stand, by Stephen King.

Thank you. Ive already read the Fall of Giants trilogy, and The Stand.

Strumpet City by James Plunkett

Thanks Paul. Have purchased Strumpet City.

Have you read any of Clive Barker's books?