One of the best writers today in the English language is Donna Tartt, an American writer. Read her 'The Secret History' followed by 'The Little Friend'. Her writing is so superior to most other modern writers, she's certainly the best thing to come out of America for a long time.

Her style is so vivid, uniqely American, which is in this case a virtue. I think I preferred The Little Friend, (but only by a whisker), I absolutely couldn't put it down.
I've just found this site http://www.purpleglitter.com/donna_tartt that someone has set up about her, haven't had a proper look round yet, but it looks like there are loads of interesting articles about her and her work, which is great as there isn't really much info out there about her.
I heard her speak at the Cheltenham Literary Festival a couple of years ago, she was marvellous and told some interesting anecdotes about her creative process. I find her very inspirational, just wish there was more material!

I saw her at the Cheltenham Literary Festival too! We must have been there at the same time!

Must have!
I would love to go more frequently, but unforunately I've moved and it's quite far now...