cg13,
quite a difficult question (very broad)
as gary suggests the starting point is the download on this site of Bruce Edwards to get a good background - i too think it's essential reading.
for me i have to break the "curry" into the various parts - base & frying stage. the frying stage then breaks into technique, spices and veg. the spices break into spice mix and curry powder.
you ideally need to try a few out to get to what suits your pallet. for me i'm currently on base: rajver, saffron, ifindforu. technique, domi's, spice mix, LB+, curry powder shop bought rajah hot madras (it isn't hot). veg down to each recipe but probably to include green pepper, onion and most definitely fresh coriander.
hopes this starts to help a little.