I really love Tolkien and Jordan, and also GRRM… I would treat competing against them as entirely accepted and obvious.
Teenagers buying Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, or Jordan for the first time… Wonderful. Of course you will be stocked there… These are the gateway to the genre, IMO.
It shouldn’t be viewed negatively or as a sort of competition - which is why I respect the meme.
Or a good series PERIOD!
I also like the steampunk Clockwork Century books from Cherie Priest.
For sure, they’re incredible. I’ve only personally read Jade City, but haven’t circled back yet. I’m assured by friends the whole series is great.
Just wanted to point it out since the fantasy genre is so freaking male dominated.