My favorite modern author is probably John Irving (Cider House Rules, Prayer for Owen Meany, World According to Garp, Widow for One Year, etc.). He rocks! In a completely different genre, I do also like Stephen King. Margaret Atwood is good, too.
In terms of "classic" authors, I like John Steinbeck a lot. Steph, The Grapes of Wrath is awesome! That ending! So great!
-------------------- Christine
Those who can do; those who want it done better teach.