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 incredible women on our team. Last year, we shared our favorite games, movies, and TV shows; this year, we're focusing on another cherished pastime: reading. We asked the women of IGN to share their favorite women authors, and the responses created a diverse and inspiring list that spans various genres and styles. Let's dive into the authors and comic artists that our team admires as we honor both the women of IGN and their top picks in literature!

Sharon Creech

Her stories beautifully explore themes of love, grief, and the intricacies of human existence. They are 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, the other bittersweet—to craft a heartwarming, compelling, and profoundly moving tale of love, loss, and the complexities 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 male-dominated world of comics. Her work on Marvel's Captain Marvel brought the iconic title to Carol Danvers, a legacy that extended to the MCU where she served as a consultant. Beyond the mainstream, her contributions to indie comics like Pretty Deadly and Bitch Planet showcase her versatility and commitment to feminist themes. Her latest project, FML from Dark Horse Comics, delves into supernatural realms. If you haven't explored her work, you're missing out on the genius of an exceptional writer and a remarkable 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 finally occupies the place she deserves. Her journey takes her to the stars, right into the heart of an intergalactic war!$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter

Sarah Rose Etter crafts stories that are both bizarre and clear-sighted, resonating deeply with readers who appreciate the unconventional. With only two novels published so far, both have been among my favorite reads of their respective years. The Book of X delves into the surreal life of a woman born into a family of generational meat farmers, while Ripe captures the eerie atmosphere of a San Francisco startup. Her work is both unsettling and relatable, and I eagerly await more from her. –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 navigating Silicon Valley's cutthroat world, challenging her to weigh the cost of success—from 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

I'm thrilled about the upcoming film adaptation of this feminist medieval tale, 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

1Inspired by The Arabian Nights, this beautifully illustrated book weaves together folk tales and myths, celebrating the hidden legacy of female storytellers in a medieval world.$11.31 See it at AmazonN.K. Jemisin

You've likely heard of N.K. Jemisin's groundbreaking The Broken Earth Trilogy, and for good reason. While all her works merit attention, the trilogy's captivating narrative, rich characters, and innovative magic system, especially in The Obelisk Gate, are standout features. The Fifth Season's playful storytelling might initially confuse, but the payoff is well worth it. Follow Essun as she hunts her husband, who murdered their son and abducted their daughter, all while navigating a cataclysmic world and hiding her earth-manipulating powers. It's a Hugo Award-winning journey you won't forget. –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 New York Times 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, and her reimaginings of classic tales and horror stories continue to captivate my adventure-loving spirit. Her stories often delve into gothic horror and dark fantasy, yet her comedic timing and well-crafted characters provide a perfect balance to the heavier themes. Whether it's the eerie exploration of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" or the poignant Saint of Steel series, her 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 reinterpretation of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher” by Hugo, Locus, and Nebula award-winning author T. Kingfisher.$14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHan Kang

Recommending the recent Nobel Prize winner for Literature might seem obvious, but Han Kang's genius is evident from the first page. Introduced to her through The Vegetarian, I was immediately drawn into its unsettling narrative of a woman who stops eating meat, eventually rejecting all food. Her subsequent works, from Greek Lessons to the politically charged Human Acts and We Do Not Part, are equally compelling. Han Kang is a literary powerhouse and an undeniable 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, Kafka-esque tale 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 is a rising star in sci-fi, already on her third novel. Her standalone stories build immersive worlds quickly and keep readers engaged with fast-paced narratives. The Deep Sky is a gripping murder mystery set on a technologically advanced spaceship, while The Stardust Grail offers an Indiana Jones-esque adventure. I'm eagerly anticipating 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 thrilling sci-fi novel about a deep space mission that begins with a deadly explosion, leaving the crew questioning each other's loyalty.$18.99 save 34%$12.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Carson Levine

A perfect introduction to fantasy for young readers. –MF

Notable works: Ella Enchanted

Gail Carson Levine### Ella Enchanted

1This beloved Newbery Honor-winning tale of a spirited heroine will enchant both new and seasoned readers.$9.99 save 30%$6.99 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas reigns supreme in the fantasy romance genre, consistently delivering jaw-dropping stories. Her world-building and detailed storytelling have made her one of my favorite authors. Best known for A Court of Thorns and Roses, a five-book series set in a magical realm of the Fae, her work explores themes of strength and self-discovery. Her first series, Throne of Glass, and her latest, Crescent City, are equally compelling. Maas excels in crafting strong characters and thrilling plots, making her series a must-read for fantasy romance enthusiasts. –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 tale 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 multiple genres, from historical romance with a touch of fantasy in The Beautiful Ones to dark vampire adventures in Certain Dark Things. Her work often centers on dark historical fantasy set in North America, particularly Mexico, offering a fresh perspective. Each new release from her is a must-have on my shelf. –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 enchanting dreamscapes. I'm an instant buyer of her hardcovers and collect various editions. The Night Circus, a historical fantasy romance about two magicians competing at a mysterious circus, is my go-to for breaking reading slumps. The Starless Sea, a journey into a subterranean library of stories, is equally captivating 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—it's challenging but fun. Her novels blend fantasy with Hans Christian Andersen's folktales in innovative ways, creating fever dream adventures that defy literary norms. As Alexandra Kleeman noted in The Nation, Oyeyemi’s work is like navigating a moving vehicle with a full cup of hot tea—discombobulating yet exhilarating. –LB

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

Helen Oyeyemi### Mr. Fox

1Helen Oyeyemi's extraordinary gift shines in this unparalleled love story. Mr. Fox is a magical book, endlessly inventive and profound in its insights into 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

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

If you're mourning the end of Game of Thrones and eagerly awaiting George R.R. Martin's next book, Samantha Shannon's Roots of Chaos series is the perfect remedy. Starting with The Priory of the Orange Tree, this high fantasy series features rich characters, dragons, magic, and suspense. With the prequel A Day of Fallen Night already out and another, Among the Burning Flowers, on the way, now is the perfect time to dive into this immersive world. –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 has been a powerhouse in comics, capturing the quiet yet powerful moments in superheroes' lives. As the first female solo writer for Uncanny X-Men and a GLAAD award winner, her impact is undeniable. Her work is a testament to her talent and passion. –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 expands on the Chinese legend of the moon goddess. This romantic adventure, continued in Heart of the Sun Warrior, offers a captivating exploration of Chinese mythology while maintaining a thrilling pace. The story follows Xingyin, the hidden daughter of the exiled moon goddess, on her quest to free her mother. Tan's storytelling and romantic pacing make this duology a standout in fantasy romance. –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, featuring stunning yet unsettling art. It captures the essence of feeling lost in the digital world, the physical world, or within oneself. –KP

Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle

Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy

1With a stark, haunting style, Nightcore Energy explores 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 young adult novels tackle challenging topics like grief, substance abuse, bullying, and abandonment. Growing up, her books were my refuge, helping me feel less alone during tough times. Her work has earned her numerous awards, including a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire for her contributions to literature. –Meg Koepp

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

Jacqueline Wilson### The Illustrated Mum

2Marigold's daughter thinks she is the most beautiful mum in the world, but she 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 compelling adult fantasy romance centered on a young woman at a war college for dragon riders. The series blends brutal violence with rich storytelling, relatable characters, and deep world-building. The romance is seamlessly integrated, enhancing the plot while maintaining the excitement of the fantasy world. Yarros's complex narratives and unexpected twists keep readers engaged, and the emotional connection to the characters and dragons is profound. The third book, released on January 21, 2025, marks the midpoint of this five-book series. –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