After years of wanting to pick up the books but not actually doing, I finally achieved my goal of doing just that and I am half way through!
I'm talking about the Terry Pratchett Discworld novels, of which, I have begun reading the first novel - the Colour of Magic.
Hilariously funny

I'm told they get better too.
For anyone thats interested, Waterstones are doing a 3 for 2 on his books. And secondly, my tip top Christmas gift for the serious readers out there:
http://www.lightwedge.com/
Which can be bought in two sizes - hardback and paperback. I bought the paperback version from:
http://www.seriousreaders.com/
Its extremely handy for reading in bed while the missus is trying to get some sleep! And it seconds as a bookmark.