Very much enjoyed the Hyperion Cantos series by Dan Simmons.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyperion_Cantos

For me, these books are in the rare category of 'wait I didn't know it was allowed to come up with a story _this good_'. I envy all those that have yet to read it for the first time.

I find very difficult deciding about my all time favourites on anything, but the Hyperion books are pretty close to it.

Not sure about the Endymion ones.

Spoilers, but the excerpt posted here [0] of Aenea was one of my favorite scenes from Hyperion Cantos. "Choose again" as a gentle reminder to reevaluate our beliefs and structures, and to really choose, not just go along with whatever. You can always choose again.

[0] https://raccaldin36.livejournal.com/1849917.html

Me too. It's phenomenal, especially the first book and the pilgrims' stories. Such a moving mix of religious mystics, science fiction and the dreaded AI. The second one builds up the tension and the last 2... are good.

I have read the first one many times. Such a great read, will have to tackle the rest of the series next year.

Read the first two this year. Absolutely incredible and now some of my all time favorite sci-fi.

Such a good read.

I read the second two books this year and was unfortunately disappointed.

First two were so fun but I think I got hung up on some of the more clumsy stylistic parts of the Endymion books. I guess my “trust” in the author comes from the style and tropes they use, and if I they lose my trust none of the deeper parts resonate. Glad you enjoyed!