Who's your favorite female author? RHLAOB wants to hear from YOU.

Initially, I had an idea for a story in which male readers of this blog (and thus, of female writers) would contribute a paragraph on their favorite female writer and/or book by a female writer. You know, to expand the concept of this blog.
But I've decided to open it up to anyone and everyone who would like to share their enthusiasm for a particular female writer. I'm hoping I'll get a nice mix of responses from writers and readers (or should I say writers-who-are-obviously-also-readers and folks who are just passionate readers?).
Please email your response to bwolfe@bak.rr.com by this Sunday, August 4 so I can publish the responses on Tuesday, August 6.
I'm looking forward to reading your responses!