/lit/ - Literature

>deliberately write the most generic fantasy plot you can just for the sake of it
>make loads of dosh
>make unbelievably derivative sequels that follow the same damn formula over and over again

Why was this allowed?

Honestly, The Belgariad and to a lesser extent the Malloreon.

Yes the plot is pretty paper thin and generic fantasy about a prophecy, but Eddings has such fantastic characterization. The characters are all fleshed out wonderfully and feel real, they are the driving force behind the story and so you actually feel pulled into the story, despite it's bland overarching plot.