Fantasy Authors --
Brandon Sanderson (Elantris, Book of Radiance series, Warbreaker, Wheel of Time)
Neil Gaiman (American Gods, Anansi Boys, Neverwhere, Stardust, Good Omens, etc)
Jim C. Hines (Goblin Quest Trilogy)
Terry Pratchett (Diskworld Series)
Jim Butcher (Dresden Files Series)
Justin Somper (Vampirate Series)
Matthew Cook (Ballad of Kirin Widowmaker)
Garth Nix (Keys to the Kingdom Series, Seventh Tower Series, Shade's Children)
Philip Pullman (His Dark Materials series)
Christopher Paolini (Inheritance Series)
Katie McAllister (Aisling Grey Guardian novels, Silver Dragon novels, random other various standalones)

The above is just what I can remember off the top of my head and just in fantasy. There are other authors I enjoy from other genres and some I'm not sure how to place. I understand some of my reading materials may be geared to a younger audience, or even a very female crowd... but ya know, I don't care so much at times, so long as I can enjoy the read and it has a good story. :3