Top 20 Female Authors Chosen by IGN Women

As we celebrate Women's History Month in the US this March, IGN is proud to spotlight the remarkable women within our team. Last year, we shared our favorite games, movies, and TV shows, but this year, we're turning the page to another beloved pastime: reading. We asked the women of IGN to share their favorite female authors, and the responses created a diverse and inspiring list that spans various genres and styles. Join us as we honor the women of IGN and the exceptional women authors they admire!

Sharon Creech

Her stories delve deep into themes of love, grief, and the complexities of human existence, all told with a masterful touch. –Marhyan Franzen

Notable works: Walk Two Moons, Chasing Redbird

Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons

1In her uniquely beautiful style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech intertwines two narratives—one humorous, the other poignant—to craft a heartwarming, compelling, and deeply moving story of love, loss, and the intricacies of human emotion.$9.99 save 30%$6.95 at AmazonSee it at AmazonKelly Sue DeConnick

Kelly Sue DeConnick has been a trailblazer in the traditionally male-dominated world of comics. Her work on Marvel's Captain Marvel transformed Carol Danvers into a leading figure, a legacy that extended into the MCU with DeConnick credited as a consultant. Beyond the mainstream, her contributions to indie comics like Pretty Deadly and Bitch Planet have brought fresh, powerful narratives to the forefront. Her ongoing project, FML, from Dark Horse Comics, adds a supernatural twist to her diverse portfolio. If you haven't yet explored her work, you're missing out on the talents of an incredible writer and person. –Chelsea Reed

Notable works: Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman Historia, Pretty Deadly, Bitch Planet, FML

Kelly Sue DeConnick### Captain Marvel

1As Earth's Mightiest Hero, Captain Marvel finds herself at a pivotal moment in her life, leading her to the stars and into the heart of an intergalactic war!$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter

Sarah Rose Etter's unique blend of surrealism and clear-eyed storytelling resonates deeply with those who appreciate the unusual. With only two novels to her name, she has already made a significant impact. The Book of X explores the surreal life of a woman born into a family of meat farmers, while Ripe captures the unsettling experience of working at a San Francisco startup, haunted by a void. Both novels are poignant and unforgettable. Here's hoping for many more from Etter. –Leanne Butkovic

Notable works: Ripe, The Book of X

Sarah Rose Etter### Ripe: A Novel

1A surreal novel with “a dark, delicious edge” (Time) about a woman in Silicon Valley navigating the price of success—from an award-winning writer whose work Roxane Gay calls “utterly unique and remarkable.”$18.00 save 12%$15.81 at AmazonSee it at AmazonIsabel Greenberg

I'm eagerly anticipating the film adaptation of this feminist medieval tale, with Charli XCX set to portray Rosa! –Kelly Pham

Notable works: The 100 Nights of Hero

Isabel Greenberg### The One Hundred Nights of Hero

1In the spirit of The Arabian Nights, this beautifully illustrated book weaves together folk tales and myths, celebrating the secret legacy of female storytellers in an imagined medieval world.$11.31 See it at AmazonN.K. Jemisin

N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth Trilogy is a must-read, though her other works are equally compelling. The trilogy, especially The Obelisk Gate, showcases her captivating writing, rich characters, and innovative magic system. The Fifth Season might challenge you with its narrative style at first, but the payoff is well worth it. Follow Essun's gripping journey as she seeks her husband, who has killed their son and abducted their daughter, all while navigating a world on the brink of cataclysm and hiding her earth-manipulating powers. –Miranda Sanchez

Notable works: The Broken Earth Trilogy (The Fifth Season), The City We Became

N.K Jemisin### The Broken Earth Trilogy: The Fifth Season, The Obelisk Gate, The Stone Sky

1This collectible boxed set includes all three books in N.K. Jemisin's groundbreaking, NYT bestselling, and three-time Hugo award-winning Broken Earth Trilogy.$49.99 save 45%$27.49 at AmazonSee it at AmazonT. Kingfisher

T. Kingfisher's prolific output never ceases to amaze me, especially her imaginative takes on classic fairy tales and horror. Her stories often venture into gothic horror and dark fantasy, yet her comedic timing and well-crafted characters bring a much-needed balance to the intense themes. From the slow-building tension of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" to the poignant Saint of Steel series exploring identity and loss, Kingfisher's work leaves a lasting impact. –MS

Notable works: Nettle & Bone, What Moves the Dead, Paladin's Grace

T. Kingfisher### What Moves the Dead

1A gripping and atmospheric reimagining of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher” from the acclaimed author T. Kingfisher, winner of the Hugo, Locus, & Nebula awards.$14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHan Kang

Recommending a Nobel Prize winner might seem obvious, but Han Kang's work is truly deserving of all the accolades it receives. The Vegetarian introduced me to her haunting narrative style when it was translated into English in 2015, depicting a housewife's journey from vegetarianism to total starvation. Her subsequent works, including Greek Lessons and Human Acts, have continued to captivate and challenge readers. Han Kang is a literary genius and an absolute force. –LB

Notable works: We Do Not Part, The Vegetarian, Human Acts, Greek Lessons

Han Kang### The Vegetarian

1Celebrated worldwide, The Vegetarian is a haunting allegory of power, obsession, and one woman’s quest for liberation from internal and external violence.$18.00 save 17%$15.00 at AmazonSee it at AmazonYume Kitasei

Yume Kitasei's imaginative sci-fi storytelling is already making waves, with a third novel on the horizon. Her standalone stories build rich worlds swiftly and move at a brisk pace. The Deep Sky is a gripping murder mystery set on a spaceship heading to humanity's new home, while The Stardust Grail is a thrilling adventure reminiscent of Indiana Jones. Both novels are imaginative and engaging, and I eagerly await her next release this fall. –MS

Notable works: The Deep Sky, Stardust Grail

Yume Kitasei### The Deep Sky

1Yume Kitasei's debut sci-fi thriller, The Deep Sky, follows a mission into deep space that turns deadly, leaving survivors to question the loyalty of their crew.$18.99 save 34%$12.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Carson Levine

Perfect for young readers beginning their journey into fantasy. –MF

Notable works: Ella Enchanted

Gail Carson Levine### Ella Enchanted

1This beloved Newbery Honor-winning story about a spirited heroine is sure to enchant readers both new and old. $9.99 save 30%$6.99 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas reigns supreme in the fantasy romance genre, captivating readers with her intricate world-building and storytelling. Her A Court of Thorns and Roses series, now at five books with more on the way, follows a young woman's transformation in a magical realm. Her debut series, Throne of Glass, spans eight books and showcases her talent from a young age. The ongoing Crescent City series, with three books released and a fourth forthcoming, further explores the enchanting world of the Fae. Maas's compelling characters and thrilling plots make her a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and romance. –Jessie Wade

Notable works: A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, Crescent City

Sarah J. Maas### A Court of Thorns and Roses

0From #1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas comes a seductive, breathtaking book that blends romance, adventure, and faerie lore into an unforgettable read.$19.00 save 42%$10.95 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSilvia Moreno-Garcia

Silvia Moreno-Garcia fearlessly explores a range of genres, from historical romance with fantasy elements in The Beautiful Ones to dark vampire tales in Certain Dark Things. Her work often focuses on dark historical fantasy set in North America, particularly Mexico, offering a refreshing perspective. Each of her novels is a guaranteed addition to my bookshelf. –MS

Notable works: Mexican Gothic, Gods of Jade and Shadow, Silver Nitrate

Silvia Moreno-Garcia### Mexican Gothic

1From the author of Gods of Jade and Shadow comes a chilling twist on classic gothic horror set in glamorous 1950s Mexico.$17.00 save 43%$9.73 at AmazonSee it at AmazonErin Morgenstern

Erin Morgenstern's novels, The Night Circus and The Starless Sea, are like stepping into a dream. Her books are instant hardcover purchases for me, and I often collect multiple editions. The Night Circus is a sumptuous historical fantasy romance about two magicians destined to compete at a mysterious circus. It's my go-to for breaking out of a reading slump. The Starless Sea takes readers on a winding journey through a subterranean library of stories, best enjoyed with a warm cup of tea. –MS

Notable works: The Night Circus, The Starless Sea

Erin Morgenstern### The Night Circus

1Written in rich, seductive prose, this enchanting novel is a feast for the senses and the heart.$19.00 save 51%$9.33 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHelen Oyeyemi

The announcement of a new Helen Oyeyemi book fills me with excitement. Her unique voice defies categorization, creating fantastical yet grounded narratives inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's tales but with a modern twist. Gingerbread, for example, reimagines Hansel and Gretel in a capitalist context. Her novels are like fever dreams, challenging the norms of literary fiction. As Alexandra Kleeman noted in The Nation, Oyeyemi's work feels like navigating a moving vehicle with a full cup of hot tea. –LB

Notable works: Parasol Against the Axe, Gingerbread, Boy Snow Bird, Mr. Fox

Helen Oyeyemi### Mr. Fox

1The extraordinarily talented Helen Oyeyemi crafts a love story unlike any other. Mr. Fox is a magical book, endlessly inventive, as witty and charming as it is profound in its exploration of human relationships.$18.00 save 25%$13.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonLeomi Sadler

Tummy Bugs is a vibrant collection of Leomi Sadler's work over a decade, filled with bright colors and dark humor. –KP

Notable works: Tummy Bugs

Leomi Sadler### Tummy Bugs

1Collecting Leomi Sadler's energetic work for the first time, Tummy Bugs serves as both an introduction and a retrospective to Sadler's deeply personal and exciting cartooning voice.$25.42 See it at AmazonSamantha Shannon

For fans eagerly awaiting George R.R. Martin's next installment, Samantha Shannon's The Roots of Chaos series offers a thrilling alternative. Starting with The Priory of the Orange Tree, this high fantasy series features rich characters, dragons, magic, suspense, and a satisfying twist. The 845-page epic will keep you immersed in its world. A prequel, A Day of Fallen Night, was released three years later, and another prequel, Among the Burning Flowers, is set to release later this year. If you're ready to dive into a new series, now is the perfect time. –CR

Notable works: The Roots of Chaos series (The Priory of the Orange Tree), The Bone Season series

Samantha Shannon### The Priory of the Orange Tree (The Roots of Chaos)

1A world divided. A queendom without an heir. An ancient enemy awakens.$10.92 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Simone

Gail Simone's long career in comics has brought quiet yet powerful moments to life, earning her GLAAD awards and making her the first female solo writer for Uncanny X-Men. Her work is truly exceptional. Check her out! –MF

Notable works: Uncanny X-Men. You can pre-order the next release (August 5) on Amazon now.

Gail Simone### (Kindle Only) Uncanny X-Men

2A core group of essential X-Men rise FROM THE ASHES to face a world without a home - and without Professor X! $5.99 at AmazonSue Lynn Tan

Sue Lynn Tan's debut, Daughter of the Moon Goddess, and its sequel, Heart of the Sun Warrior, offer a stunning reimagining of the Chinese legend of the moon goddess. These novels are captivating romantic adventures that seamlessly blend Chinese mythology with fast-paced action. The story follows Xingyin, the hidden daughter of the exiled moon goddess, on her quest to free her mother. Tan's intricate characters and romantic pacing make these books standout romantic fantasy reads. –MS

Notable works: The Celestial Kingdom Duology (Daughter of the Moon Goddess), Immortal

Sue Lynn Tan### (Book 1 of 3) Daughter of the Moon Goddess

1A captivating and romantic debut epic fantasy inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang’e, in which a young woman’s quest to free her mother pits her against the most powerful immortal in the realm.$17.99 save 32%$12.18 at AmazonMorgan Vogel

Morgan Vogel's work is both visceral and intelligent, with beautiful yet unsettling drawings that capture the feeling of being lost online, in the world, or within oneself. –KP

Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle

Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy

1With a striking pen, Nightcore Energy shows us the world of a young man attempting to escape his alienation by immersing himself in technology—reflecting Morgan’s own experience as a teenage web-artist.See it at Organ.FailJacqueline Wilson

Jacqueline Wilson's young adult novels tackle difficult topics such as grief, substance abuse, bullying, and abandonment. Growing up with her books, I found solace in her characters during my own challenging times. Her work has earned her numerous awards, including the prestigious Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire from King Charles III for her "services to Literature." –Meg Koepp

Notable works: "Girls" series, Think Again, The Illustrated Mum

Jacqueline Wilson### The Illustrated Mum

2Marigold's daughter believes she is the most beautiful mum in the world, but wishes she wouldn't spend so much money and stay out all night - it's scary.$21.31 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonRebecca Yarros

Rebecca Yarros's Empyrean series is a gripping adult fantasy romance that follows a young woman's journey at a war college for dragon riders. The series begins with brutal intensity, but the violence never overshadows the rich storyline, characters, and world-building. Yarros excels at creating relatable characters who face both physical and mental challenges, supported by themes of friendship and resilience. The romance is seamlessly integrated, complementing the plot without overshadowing the fantasy elements. Yarros's complex narratives are full of unexpected twists, and as you read, you'll find yourself deeply attached to both the characters and their dragon companions. The series, which includes Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, and Onyx Storm, continues to captivate with its third book released on January 21, 2025. –JW

Notable works: Empyrean Series (Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, and Onyx Storm)

Rebecca Yarros### (3 Book Set) Empyrean Series (Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, and Onyx Storm)

1Immerse yourself in this captivating fantasy series with three stunning books: Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, and Onyx Storm, by #1 New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Yarros.$91.29 See it at AmazonFor more, also check out Humble Bundle's great deals and specials this month for gamers and readers. Humble is partnering with CARE for Women’s History Month. When you purchase a Humble Choice membership this March, 5% of proceeds will support CARE’s programs.

Celebrate Women's History Month### Humble Heroines Bundle

0Take charge as powerful protagonists including Seelah from Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous - Enhanced Edition, Jesse Faden from Control: Ultimate Edition, and Fury from Darksiders 3!See it at Humble Bundle