Red Country

Red Country by Joe Abercrombie.  Just finished this book and highly recommend it.  A few of the characters from his other books show up in this one.  Including one that had disappeared for a while.  As I've heard others say it does have kind of a western feel to it, but a good fantasy book for sure.

Age Of Odin

Age Of Odin by James Lovegrove.  First book I have read by Lovegrove.  Read it because I am very interested in the Vikings and Norse myths.  I found it to be a fun read.  It tells a story of Ragnarok happening in modern times.  I think anyone interested in the Norse myths would like this book.  Being in modern times puts a pretty fun twist on everything.  The one thing I didn't like that much was the main character.  Just wasn't that likeable to me.  But I recommend this book to anyone interested in the Norse myths.
 

This author isn't very well known, but is writing some real good stuff.  I found Demonsouled by Jonathan Moeller for free and loved it.  Several times in the book I was surprised and just didn't expect what happened.  The world he creates has monsters and magic in a very good dose.  I find most of it to be quite unique also.  I've only read the Demonsouled series so far, but will definitely checkout some more of his books.

The next author I would like to share is a bit lesser known, though I think he's getting more and more popular.  Joe Abercrombie has quickly become one of my favorites.  He does a great job of developing characters and puts them in some great stories.  The world he has created is great for fantasy.  Has lots of mystery and magic, but not too much magic.  The closest author I have read to George RR Martin.  If you like Martin these are some good books to read while you wait for his next book.

The next author is my current favorite, though I wish he'd write a bit faster.  Everybody should be familiar with George RR Martin.  He's writing some fantastic stuff! 

Terry Brooks has to be the author I have read the most books from.  He started out with the Sword of Shannara trilogy.  This trilogy takes a lot of influence from Tolkien.  If you like The Lord Of The Rings you should like this trilogy also.  Terry Brooks really comes more into his own with later books. 

It all started with the Hobbit.  JRR Tolkien is the first real fantasy author I read.  And his tales are still fantastic.  They have a great story mixed with magic, monsters, and the various races.  I am sure every current fantasy author takes some inspiration from Tolkien.  A must read for all fans of fantasy!