I recommend any book by Peter F Hamilton (as a huge sci-fi fan, I admire the man, who writes beautifully - if too much)
For those into historical works, or alternative history works, I'd look at The Leader, by Guy Walters. Fantastically logical book, which suggests what would have happened if Edward VIII never abdicated in 1936 - the events of 1937, Walters suggests, would have found a Fascist in 10 Downing Street. Very good read. Walters is an actual historian, and only dabbles in fiction work
If you want to look back on a book that caused a big hoo-ha with the Church, but is ultimately much-ado about not much, than Dan Brown's duology Angels & Demons and The da Vinci Code are... interesting reads. What the big fuss was over beats the hell out of me, but they're... interesting reads, nonetheless
Those into Young Adult fantasy, I suggest Brian Jacques expansive Redwall series - seriously, even though I'm nearly 30, I'm amazed by his near-Tolkien level of detail and imagination. In fact, I'd say he's superior to Tolkien, in the sense that he gets on with the story without being bogged down and mired in the minutiae of the world he's created.
Speaking of Tolkien... I cannot say I would recommend his works. Not saying the man wasn't brilliant - he clearly was - but for me, his books are overlong and, in many instances, over-thought. His works just aren't my cup of tea, but I certainly understand why he has the fanbase he does (I think my main problem with his work is his desire to imbue every possible character and location with a detailed backstory, which, while incredible, also does my poor head in - I can't keep up with all the names, dates etc)
