Top 20 Female Authors Chosen by IGN Women

As we celebrate Women’s History Month in the US during March, we at IGN are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the remarkable women within our team. Last year, we shared our favorite games, movies, and TV shows, but this year, we're diving into another beloved pastime: reading. We asked the women of IGN, "Who are your favorite women authors?" and their responses created a diverse and captivating list of literary talents across various genres and styles. Join us in celebrating both the women of IGN and the inspiring women authors they admire!

Sharon Creech

Her stories delve deep into themes of love, grief, and the complexities of human existence, making them truly exceptional. –Marhyan Franzen

Notable works: Walk Two Moons, Chasing Redbird

Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons

1In her uniquely beautiful style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech masterfully intertwines two narratives, one humorous and one poignant, crafting a heartwarming and emotionally compelling 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 with Marvel, where she brought the iconic Captain Marvel title to Carol Danvers, has left a lasting impact, evident in the MCU where she served as a consultant. Beyond the mainstream, DeConnick's voice resonates in indie comics like Pretty Deadly, offering a mystical western experience, and Bitch Planet, a gripping sci-fi dystopian narrative with a strong feminist undertone. Her ongoing project, FML, from Dark Horse Comics, explores supernatural themes. If you haven’t yet experienced her work, you're missing out on the brilliance of a truly exceptional writer and human being. –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 stands where she rightfully belongs. Her journey takes a dramatic turn as she ventures into space, right into the heart of an intergalactic war!$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter

Sarah Rose Etter’s novels resonate with those who embrace the unconventional. With only two novels to her name so far, both have been standout reads for me. The Book of X, a surreal tale of a woman born into a family of meat farmers with a twisted stomach, strikes a chord with its blend of the surreal and the painfully relatable. Ripe, which follows a young woman navigating the chaos of a San Francisco startup while haunted by a void, offers a fresh take on the genre and ends with a poignant twist reminiscent of Rose Glass’ Saint Maud. Here’s hoping for many more such gems 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) that explores the lengths a woman in Silicon Valley will go for success, crafted by an award-winning author praised by Roxane Gay as “utterly unique and remarkable.”$18.00 save 12%$15.81 at AmazonSee it at AmazonIsabel Greenberg

The anticipation for the film adaptation of this feminist medieval tale is palpable, especially 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 tradition of The Arabian Nights, this beautifully illustrated book weaves together folk tales and myths to explore the secret legacy of female storytellers in a medieval world.$11.31 See it at AmazonN.K. Jemisin

Chances are you've heard of N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth Trilogy, and rightly so. While her other fantasy works are equally worthy of attention, it's the trilogy's captivating narrative, rich characters, and innovative magic system that make it a must-read. The second book, The Obelisk Gate, is particularly noteworthy. Jemisin's playful approach to storytelling in The Fifth Season might be initially confusing, but it's well worth the journey. Follow Essun as she seeks vengeance on her husband who killed their son and kidnapped their daughter, all while navigating a recurring cataclysmic event and concealing her earth-manipulating powers. This Hugo Award-winning series is an unforgettable ride. –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 of N. K. Jemisin's critically acclaimed 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 is a delight for fans of adventure and dark fantasy. Her reinterpretations of classic fairy tales and horror stories are consistently engaging. Her gothic horror and dark fantasy narratives are balanced with comedic pacing and well-developed characters, providing relief from heavy themes. Whether it's the eerie exploration of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" or the captivating Saint of Steel fantasy romance series, Kingfisher's work leaves you both fulfilled and slightly unnerved. –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” by the acclaimed T. Kingfisher, winner of Hugo, Locus, & Nebula awards.$14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHan Kang

Recommending the recent Nobel Prize winner for Literature might seem obvious, especially given BTS's celebration of her on Instagram, but Han Kang's work truly justifies the accolades. My introduction to her was through The Vegetarian, a mesmerizing tale of a housewife's drastic transformation that was first published in South Korea eight years before its English translation in 2015. From there, I followed her work, including Greek Lessons and the poignant Human Acts, which delve into South Korea's political history. Han Kang's genius is undeniable, and her storytelling is truly badass. –LB

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

Han Kang### The Vegetarian

1Celebrated globally, The Vegetarian is a hauntingly allegorical tale of power, obsession, and a woman's quest for freedom amidst internal and external violence.$18.00 save 17%$15.00 at AmazonSee it at AmazonYume Kitasei

Yume Kitasei is quickly making a name for herself in the sci-fi genre with her imaginative storytelling. Unlike many sci-fi writers who focus on expansive series, Kitasei excels in crafting concise yet richly detailed worlds in her standalone novels. Her debut, The Deep Sky, is a thrilling murder mystery set on a technologically advanced spaceship, while The Stardust Grail offers an exhilarating adventure reminiscent of Indiana Jones. 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, The Deep Sky, is a captivating sci-fi thriller about a deep space mission that turns deadly, sparking questions of loyalty among the crew.$18.99 save 34%$12.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Carson Levine

A perfect entry point into fantasy for young readers. –MF

Notable works: Ella Enchanted

Gail Carson Levine### Ella Enchanted

1This beloved Newbery Honor-winning story about a spirited heroine is sure to captivate readers of all ages. $9.99 save 30%$6.99 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas reigns supreme in the fantasy romance genre with her intricate world-building and enthralling storytelling. Best known for A Court of Thorns and Roses, a series now spanning five books, Maas transports readers into a magical realm where a young woman discovers her strength among the immortal Fae. Her first series, Throne of Glass, launched her career as a teenager, and her latest, Crescent City, continues to captivate. Maas's ability to weave strong characters and unexpected plot twists makes her stories equally compelling for their fantasy and romantic elements. Dive into the enchanting world of the Fae with her novels. –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 novel blending 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 various genres, from historical romance with a fantasy twist in The Beautiful Ones to dark vampire tales set in Mexico City in Certain Dark Things. While her romance-focused stories may share some dynamics, her broader work often delves into dark historical fantasy, particularly set in North America, with a refreshing focus on Mexico. Every new release from Moreno-Garcia earns a coveted spot on 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 the 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. I'm an instant buyer of her hardcover editions and often collect multiple versions. The Night Circus is a lush historical fantasy romance about two young magicians destined for a duel at a mysterious circus, perfect for breaking a reading slump. The Starless Sea, an enchanting tale about stories themselves, follows protagonist Zachary into an underground realm that is a library of all stories. Both books are beautifully written and 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 spellbinding 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 is like chasing a playful ghost, delightfully elusive yet engaging. Her novels blend fantasy with inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's folktales, yet they carve out their own distinct paths. Gingerbread, for instance, reimagines Hansel and Gretel within a capitalist framework. Oyeyemi's work defies the norms of literary fiction, as Alexandra Kleeman noted in The Nation, likening it to the experience of carrying a full cup of hot tea through a moving vehicle. –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 like no other. Mr. Fox is a magical book, inventive and charming, yet profoundly truthful about how we connect with one another.$18.00 save 25%$13.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonLeomi Sadler

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

Notable works: Tummy Bugs

Leomi Sadler### Tummy Bugs

1This collection introduces and reflects on Leomi Sadler's dynamic and personal cartooning style.$25.42 See it at AmazonSamantha Shannon

For fans still reeling from the end of Game of Thrones and eagerly awaiting George R.R. Martin’s next book, Samantha Shannon's Roots of Chaos series offers the perfect escape. Starting with The Priory of the Orange Tree, this high fantasy series delivers rich characters, dragons, magic, suspense, and satisfying twists. With an 845-page debut that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, followed by the prequel A Day of Fallen Night, and the upcoming Among the Burning Flowers, now is the perfect time to dive into this captivating series. –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, and an ancient enemy awakens.$10.92 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Simone

Gail Simone's long career in comics and other media showcases her talent for capturing the quiet, powerful moments in superheroes’ lives. As the first female solo writer for Uncanny X-Men and a GLAAD award winner, Simone's contributions are truly remarkable. Don't miss out on her work! –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, beautifully reimagines the Chinese legend of the moon goddess. The follow-up, Heart of the Sun Warrior, completes a captivating duology filled with romantic adventure. These novels provide context to Chinese mythology while maintaining a brisk pace. The protagonist, Xingyin, the hidden daughter of the exiled moon goddess, embarks on an epic journey to free her mother. Tan's storytelling, with its intricate characters and romantic pacing, makes these novels standout in the genre. –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 epic fantasy inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang’e, where a young woman embarks on a quest to free her mother.$17.99 save 32%$12.18 at AmazonMorgan Vogel

Morgan Vogel's work is both visceral and intelligent, with beautiful yet unsettling illustrations. It captures the feeling of being lost in the digital world, the physical world, or within oneself. –KP

Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle

Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy

1With a hauntingly sharp pen, Nightcore Energy delves into the world of a young man trying to escape his alienation through technology, reflecting Morgan’s own experiences as a teenage web-artist.See it at Organ.FailJacqueline Wilson

Jacqueline Wilson's novels for young adults tackle challenging topics such as grief, substance abuse, bullying, and abandonment. Growing up with her books, I found solace and connection through her characters, reflecting my own struggles. Wilson's numerous awards, including the prestigious Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire, testify to her impact on literature. –Meg Koepp

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

Jacqueline Wilson### The Illustrated Mum

2Marigold's daughter admires her beauty but worries about her mother's spending and late nights, finding them unsettling.$21.31 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonRebecca Yarros

Rebecca Yarros’s Empyrean series is a compelling adult fantasy romance that follows a young woman's journey at a war college for dragon riders. The series is intense from the start, with violence playing a key role, yet it never overshadows the rich storytelling, character development, and world-building. Yarros excels at creating relatable characters facing physical and mental challenges, emphasizing themes of friendship and support. The romance is seamlessly integrated, enhancing the plot without overpowering it. Yarros's complex storylines and unexpected twists keep readers engaged, with each book revealing more about her intricate worlds. The Empyrean series, now a five-book saga with the third book released on January 21, 2025, will captivate you with its characters and dragons, making them feel real and unforgettable. –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 enthralling 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