Top 20 Female Authors Chosen by IGN Women

As we celebrate Women's History Month in the US this March, we at IGN are proud to shine a spotlight on the remarkable women within our team. Last year, we shared our favorite games, movies, and TV shows; this year, we're turning our attention to another beloved pastime: reading. We asked the women of IGN about their favorite female authors, and the responses were as diverse as they were inspiring. Let's delve into the authors and comic artists that have captured our hearts and minds, celebrating both the women of IGN and their favorite female creators!
Sharon Creech
Sharon Creech's narratives beautifully explore the themes of love, grief, and the intricacies of human life. Her storytelling is nothing short of exceptional. –Marhyan Franzen
Notable works: Walk Two Moons, Chasing Redbird
Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons
In her uniquely elegant style, Sharon Creech, a Newbery Medal winner, intricately weaves together two tales - one humorous, the other bittersweet - to create a heartwarming, compelling, and profoundly moving story about love, loss, and the complexity of human emotions. $9.99 save 30% $6.95 at Amazon See it at Amazon
Kelly Sue DeConnick
Kelly Sue DeConnick has been a trailblazer in the predominantly male world of comics. At Marvel, she played a pivotal role in redefining Captain Marvel, bringing the iconic title to Carol Danvers - a move that resonated into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with her credited as a consultant. Beyond the mainstream, DeConnick's voice echoes through indie comics like Pretty Deadly, offering a mystical western experience, and Bitch Planet, a powerful sci-fi, dystopian feminist narrative. Her latest project, FML from Dark Horse Comics, explores supernatural themes. If you haven't experienced her work, you're missing out on the brilliance of an incredible writer and human. –Chelsea Reed
Notable works: Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman Historia, Pretty Deadly, Bitch Planet, FML
Kelly Sue DeConnick### Captain Marvel
As Earth's Mightiest Hero, Captain Marvel stands exactly where she belongs. As she navigates pivotal life moments, a crucial decision propels her into the heart of an intergalactic conflict! $125.00 save 46% $68.02 at Amazon
Sarah Rose Etter
Sarah Rose Etter crafts stories that are both surreal and poignantly relatable, tailored for those who appreciate the unconventional. With only two novels published so far, both have quickly become favorites. The Book of X delves into the life of a woman born into a family of meat farmers, her story both bizarre and emotionally resonant. Ripe captures the harrowing experience of working at a psychotic San Francisco startup, haunted by an omnipresent void, ending in a manner reminiscent of Rose Glass' Saint Maud. I eagerly anticipate more of her unique storytelling. –Leanne Butkovic
Notable works: Ripe, The Book of X
Sarah Rose Etter### Ripe: A Novel
A surreal novel with "a dark, delicious edge" (Time) that explores a woman's journey through the cutthroat world of Silicon Valley, weighing the cost of success. $18.00 save 12% $15.81 at Amazon See it at Amazon
Isabel Greenberg
I'm eagerly anticipating the film adaptation of this feminist medieval tale, especially with Charli XCX portraying Rosa! –Kelly Pham
Notable works: The 100 Nights of Hero
Isabel Greenberg### The One Hundred Nights of Hero
In the tradition of The Arabian Nights, this beautifully illustrated book weaves a tapestry of folk tales and myths celebrating the secret legacy of female storytellers in a medieval world. $11.31 See it at Amazon
N.K. Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth Trilogy is a must-read for any fan of fantasy. While her other works are equally commendable, the trilogy's captivating narrative, compelling characters, and inventive magic system are particularly noteworthy. The second book, The Obelisk Gate, is especially recommended. The Fifth Season's innovative storytelling may initially confuse, but the payoff is immense. It follows Essun as she searches for her husband, who killed their son and abducted their daughter, while navigating a recurring cataclysmic event and hiding her earth-manipulating powers. This Hugo Award-winning series is a thrilling 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
This collectible boxed set includes all three books of N.K. Jemisin's NYT bestselling and three-time Hugo award-winning Broken Earth Trilogy. $49.99 save 45% $27.49 at Amazon See it at Amazon
T. Kingfisher
T. Kingfisher's prolific output never ceases to amaze, and her adventurous retellings of classic fairy tales and horror stories always hit the mark. Her work often delves into gothic horror and dark fantasy, yet her comedic timing and well-crafted characters provide a necessary balance to the heavy themes. Whether it's the chilling exploration of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" or the enchanting Saint of Steel series exploring identity and loss, Kingfisher's stories leave a lasting impact. –MS
Notable works: Nettle & Bone, What Moves the Dead, Paladin's Grace
T. Kingfisher### What Moves the Dead
A gripping and atmospheric reimagining of Edgar Allan Poe’s "The Fall of the House of Usher" by the acclaimed author T. Kingfisher. $14.99 save 44% $8.46 at Amazon See it at Amazon
Han Kang
It may seem obvious to recommend the recent Nobel Prize winner for Literature, but Han Kang's work justifies all the acclaim. Introduced to her through The Vegetarian in 2015, I was captivated by its disturbingly mesmerizing plot about a housewife who stops eating meat, leading to drastic consequences. Her subsequent works, from Greek Lessons to Human Acts and We Do Not Part, further showcase her genius and fearless storytelling. –LB
Notable works: We Do Not Part, The Vegetarian, Human Acts, Greek Lessons
Han Kang### The Vegetarian
Celebrated globally, The Vegetarian is a Kafka-esque tale of power, obsession, and a woman's struggle to break free from external and internal violence. $18.00 save 17% $15.00 at Amazon See it at Amazon
Yume Kitasei
Yume Kitasei's career is on the rise, with her third novel soon to be released. Her sci-fi stories build worlds swiftly and engage readers with fast-paced plots. The Deep Sky is a gripping murder mystery set on a tech-filled spaceship, while The Stardust Grail offers an exhilarating adventure reminiscent of Indiana Jones. Both are imaginative and compelling, and I look forward to her next release. –MS
Notable works: The Deep Sky, Stardust Grail
Yume Kitasei### The Deep Sky
An enthralling sci-fi thriller about a deep-space mission that begins with a lethal explosion, leading the survivors to question the crew's loyalty. $18.99 save 34% $12.59 at Amazon See it at Amazon
Gail Carson Levine
Perfect for children beginning their journey into fantasy. –MF
Notable works: Ella Enchanted
Gail Carson Levine### Ella Enchanted
This beloved Newbery Honor-winning tale of a spirited heroine is sure to captivate readers, both new and returning. $9.99 save 30% $6.99 at Amazon See it at Amazon
Sarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas is a powerhouse in fantasy romance, known for her intricately detailed world-building and storytelling. Her most famous series, A Court of Thorns and Roses, explores a young woman's journey in a magical realm among the Fae. Her debut series, Throne of Glass, and her latest, Crescent City, also set in the Fae world, showcase her talent for developing strong characters and thrilling plots. For those craving epic fantasy with romance, Maas's work is a must-read. –Jessie Wade
Notable works: A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, Crescent City
Sarah J. Maas### A Court of Thorns and Roses
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas comes a seductive, breathtaking tale blending romance, adventure, and faerie lore into an unforgettable read. $19.00 save 42% $10.95 at Amazon See it at Amazon
Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Silvia Moreno-Garcia fearlessly explores various genres, from historical romance with fantasy elements in The Beautiful Ones to dark vampire adventures in Certain Dark Things. Her stories often delve into dark historical fantasy set in North America, particularly Mexico, offering a refreshing perspective. Each of her works is a guaranteed treasure for my bookshelf. –MS
Notable works: Mexican Gothic, Gods of Jade and Shadow, Silver Nitrate
Silvia Moreno-Garcia### Mexican Gothic
From 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 Amazon See it at Amazon
Erin Morgenstern
Erin Morgenstern's novels, The Night Circus and The Starless Sea, are like stepping into a dream. I eagerly purchase her hardcovers and collect various editions. The Night Circus is a lush historical fantasy romance about two magicians destined for a battle at a mysterious circus, perfect for breaking a reading slump. The Starless Sea is an enchanting tale about stories, set in an underground library of all narratives. Both are best enjoyed with a warm cup of tea. –MS
Notable works: The Night Circus, The Starless Sea
Erin Morgenstern### The Night Circus
Written in rich, seductive prose, this spell-casting novel is a feast for the senses and the heart. $19.00 save 51% $9.33 at Amazon See it at Amazon
Helen Oyeyemi
Helen Oyeyemi's upcoming books always fill me with excitement. Her unique voice is like chasing a playful, elusive ghost. Her novels, inspired by Hans Christian Anderson's folktales yet radically different, are fantastical yet defy the genre. Gingerbread, for instance, reimagines Hansel and Gretel through a capitalist lens. Her works are feverish adventures that break literary fiction's rules, as Alexandra Kleeman noted, "the discombobulating quality of walking through a moving vehicle while carrying a full-to-the-brim cup of very hot tea." –LB
Notable works: Parasol Against the Axe, Gingerbread, Boy Snow Bird, Mr. Fox
Helen Oyeyemi### Mr. Fox
Helen Oyeyemi's extraordinary talent shines in this magical love story, endlessly inventive and profound in its exploration of human connections. $18.00 save 25% $13.59 at Amazon See it at Amazon
Leomi Sadler
Tummy Bugs is a vibrant collection of Leomi Sadler's work over more than a decade, full of bright colors and dark humor. –KP
Notable works: Tummy Bugs
Leomi Sadler### Tummy Bugs
This collection introduces and reflects on Leomi Sadler's energetic and deeply personal cartooning style. $25.42 See it at Amazon
Samantha Shannon
For fans missing Game of Thrones and awaiting George R.R. Martin's next installment, Samantha Shannon's Roots of Chaos series, starting with The Priory of the Orange Tree, is the perfect remedy. With rich characters, dragons, magic, and suspense, this 845-page epic will keep you immersed. The series continues with A Day of Fallen Night and the upcoming Among the Burning Flowers. If you're looking to start a new series, this 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)
A divided world, a queendom without an heir, and an ancient enemy awakened. $10.92 See it at Amazon See it at Amazon
Gail Simone
Gail Simone has been a powerhouse in comics, capturing the subtle yet powerful moments in superheroes' lives. As the first female solo writer for Uncanny X-Men and a GLAAD award winner, her work is truly exceptional. Don't miss out on her incredible contributions! –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
A core group of essential X-Men rise FROM THE ASHES to face a world without a home - and without Professor X! $5.99 at Amazon
Sue Lynn Tan
Sue Lynn Tan's debut, Daughter of the Moon Goddess, and its sequel, Heart of the Sun Warrior, offer a breathtaking reimagining of the Chinese legend of the moon goddess. These novels are enchanting romantic adventures, providing context to Chinese mythology while maintaining a brisk pace. Protagonist Xingyin's journey to free her mother is both epic and inspiring. Tan's characters and romantic pacing make these standouts 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
A captivating debut epic fantasy inspired by the legend of Chang'e, following a young woman's quest to free her mother and challenge the most powerful immortal in the realm. $17.99 save 32% $12.18 at Amazon
Morgan Vogel
Morgan Vogel's work is both visceral and intelligent, with beautifully drawn yet unsettling images that capture the feeling of being lost online, in the world, or within oneself. –KP
Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle
Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy
With a striking, unsettling style, Nightcore Energy depicts a young man's attempt to escape alienation through technology, mirroring Morgan's experiences as a teenage web-artist. See it at Organ.Fail
Jacqueline Wilson
Jacqueline Wilson's young adult novels tackle challenging topics like grief, substance abuse, bullying, and abandonment. Growing up, her books provided solace and a sense of connection during my own difficult times. She has received 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
Marigold's daughter believes her mother is the most beautiful in the world, yet wishes she wouldn't spend so much money and stay out all night - it's frightening. $21.31 See it at Amazon See it at Amazon
Rebecca Yarros
Rebecca Yarros's Empyrean series is a gripping adult fantasy romance centered on a young woman attending a war college for dragon riders. The series seamlessly blends brutal violence with rich storytelling, character development, and world-building. The relatable characters face serious challenges, supported by themes of friendship and support. The romance enhances the plot without overshadowing the fantasy elements. Yarros's complex narratives and unexpected twists keep readers engaged, and the dragons become beloved characters. The third book was released on January 21, 2025, with two more to follow. –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)
Immerse yourself in this captivating fantasy series with three stunning books by #1 New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Yarros. $91.29 See it at Amazon
For 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.
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Take 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
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