Can you recommend the best epic contemporary novels for beginners?

Sure. 'The Hobbit' by J.R.R. Tolkien is a great choice for beginners. It's shorter and less complex than 'The Lord of the Rings' but still has that epic feel. It follows Bilbo Baggins on his adventure with dwarves and a wizard. Another good one is 'The Call of the Wild' by Jack London. It's about a dog named Buck and his transformation from a domestic pet to a wild animal in the Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush. It's easy to understand and has exciting adventure elements. 'Black Beauty' by Anna Sewell is also suitable. It's the story of a horse's life, told from the horse's perspective, which is very unique and can be easily followed.

Sure. 'The Hunger Games' by Suzanne Collins is a great start. It has a fast - paced plot and relatable characters. It's set in a dystopian future and is easy to get into. Another one is 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green. It's a love story that also deals with serious themes like illness in a very accessible way.

A more recent option could be 'The Vegetarian' by Han Kang. It has a rather unusual premise as it follows a woman's decision to become a vegetarian and the strange consequences that follow. The narrative is simple yet the themes are complex and presented in an experimental way.

For beginners, I'd recommend 'The Woman in Black' by Susan Hill. It has a simple yet effective ghost story that is not too overly complex or gory. It builds a great sense of dread. Another good one is 'Let the Right One In' by John Ajvide Lindqvist. It has a unique vampire story that is more about the relationship between the characters as well as the horror elements. It's easy to get into.

Another good one for beginners is 'City of Bones' by Cassandra Clare. It has a modern - day setting with a hidden world of Shadowhunters, who are half - angel warriors fighting demons. The story is fast - paced, and the characters are easy to follow, which makes it accessible for those new to contemporary fantasy.

'Bellman & Black' by Diane Setterfield could be a good pick too. It has elements of the supernatural and a ghostly figure that haunts the main character. The writing is atmospheric and it's an easy - to - read novel that can draw beginners into the world of contemporary ghost novels.

For beginners, 'White Teeth' by Zadie Smith is a great start. It has a relatively easy - to - follow plot and the characters are very engaging. You get to see different cultures interacting in London.

For beginners, 'The Hate U Give' by Angie Thomas is a great choice. It's a contemporary novel that deals with important social issues like racism and police brutality in a very accessible way. The story is engaging and the characters are relatable.

For beginners, 'Anne of Green Gables' is a classic contemporary YA novel. It has a warm and inviting story about an orphan girl and her adventures. 'Stargirl' is also a wonderful option. It's about a unique girl who stands out in a conformist high school environment. 'The Giver' is a thought - provoking read that presents a different kind of society in a way that's accessible to new YA readers.

For beginners, 'The Little Prince' by Antoine de Saint - Exupéry is a great start. It's a short and simple yet profound story that can introduce you to French literature's charm. It's full of beautiful illustrations and deep philosophical musings.