Alyn's Favorite Authors

I just added a list of my favorite authors of fiction.

A few disclaimers: to get on my list, an author has to write more than 2 books that I really like. For most of the authors listed, I have read several, sometimes dozens, of books they have written. I am always on the lookout for the latest book from these writers. That doesn't mean I have liked everything they have published. For example, I think I have read every book that John Grisham has written. Most were good, a few were spectacular, but I really did not like "Playing for Pizza". It was a fluff novel in my opinion, and a waste of Mr. Grisham's talent. He should stick to the detailed legal thrillers he is known for.

I will continue to read every book these authors publish. This doesn't mean I recommend all of them. Everyone has their own tastes and sensitivities. But there are some real gems here!

The books I really like have to be well written, with interesting words, flowing narratives that make you think and induce vivid visual images. Great books also contain lots of descriptive detail. Have you ever read a book and as you are reading you realize half-way through that you don't even know what the main character looks like? Very annoying! Lastly, depending on the genre, the book has to have an intelligent plot or story with believable characters and logical scenarios. I like really well-rounded, complex characters and settings. The plot should be interesting and hold my attention, but I dislike being unduly manipulated by overly creative twists and turns, very wordy or awkward phrasing, and abruptly surprising endings. A clever turn in the story is best when subtle. A skillful writer knows how to describe something well without bogging us down in too much detail.

There are a wide variety of genres here to suit my varying moods. I hope you will check out a few of these authors for yourself. Then let me know how you liked what you read!