I think Jane Bryant Quinn is a good all round personal finance author.

This guy is pretty good (as in honest, not too expensive, trying to help you take charge of stuff yourself not keep it mysterious/expensive): http://www.rwinvestmentstrategies.com/

go to napfa.org to find the planner. Also google michelle singletary and some of the questions you have above, she has lots of articles on the topic.

Hi looking for rec for a fee based FA. And what to expect when working with one. Need general guidance on saving/investing and prob budgeting and managing finances as well. Need to get organized. Thanks in advance.