I write crime fiction, sci-fi, horror. Both novels and short stories. By the time I was 8 yrs. old I was reading classic sci-fi (snatched from my older brothers' collection), and I find myself coming full circle, writing sci-fi short stories of my own right now as well as working on the 2nd draft of a long sci-fi novel that needs many more than two drafts. I plan to self-pub my finished crime thriller novel.
There are many authors who've entertained and influenced me. I love the dialogue of Dennis Lehane -- it feels more like you're eavesdropping on real people than reading characters. The neighborhoods he describes are much like those in which I grew up, and he gets it right.
If I were going to be marooned on an island and could only pick 2 books to take with me, first I'd pick Stephen King's The Stand. I love so many of his, but that one draws me into it, every time. Of course, I'd also take Boat Building For Dummies (if there isn't one, there should be).
In short, I love books.