I agree Frank Herberts 'Dune' series is some great sci-fi. His son Brian Herbert co-wrote the 'Dune' prequals; Butlerian Jihad, The Machine Crusade and the Battle for Corrin; with the author of Star Wars (name escapes me). Although on a different level to Frank Herbert, I found the prequals very enjoyable and very easy reading.
I wish you luck with your journey. Don't stay away for too long.
