As an introduction to Tolstoy you might consider "Count Cagliostro", one of my favourite short pieces. His craftmanship with words were something else e.g.
"Her face, a face of a child rather than that of a woman, seemed transparent, for so soft and clear was the skin; she kept her eyelids modestly lowered over her blue eyes, and her sweet mouth slightly parted".
If Tolstoy has attracted your interest, start with him. If you enjoy "Big" History, go with War and Peace. If you prefer more personal and social stories, then Anna K . It depends what kind of thing you like- a bit of research will reveal what you need. I will just add that Tolstoy is very good teller of stories whatever his subject, you don't need a degree in Russian Lit to enjoy them.
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