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.