Top 20 Female Authors Chosen by IGN Women

As March marks Women’s History Month in the US, we at IGN are thrilled to celebrate by spotlighting the incredible women on our team and their favorite female authors. Last year, we shared our top picks in games, movies, and TV. This year, we're diving into the world of literature, a passion shared by many of our staff members. When we asked the women of IGN about their favorite women authors, the responses were diverse and inspiring, showcasing a wide range of genres and styles. Let's explore the authors and comic artists that have captured their hearts and minds as we honor both the women of IGN and their literary heroes!

Sharon Creech

Her stories beautifully explore themes of love, grief, and the complexities of human existence. –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 bittersweet, to craft a heartwarming, compelling, and deeply moving tale 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 male-dominated world of comics. Her work on Marvel's Captain Marvel brought the iconic title to Carol Danvers, a legacy that carried over into the MCU with her credited as a consultant. Beyond the major publishers, she's a prominent voice in indie comics with titles like Pretty Deadly, offering a mystical western theme, and Bitch Planet, a sci-fi, dystopian feminist narrative. Her latest project, FML, from Dark Horse Comics, delves into supernatural themes. If you haven't yet experienced her writing, you're missing out on the work of an exceptional 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 is exactly where she's always deserved to be. But as she navigates a pivotal moment in her life, a dramatic decision propels her into the heart of an intergalactic war!$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter

Sarah Rose Etter's novels are uniquely weird yet profoundly clear, resonating with those who appreciate the unconventional. With only two novels published so far, both have been standout favorites of mine. The Book of X, a surreal yet relatable story about a woman born into a family of meat farmers with a twisted stomach, and Ripe, which follows a young woman's harrowing experience at a San Francisco startup haunted by a void, showcase her distinctive style. I eagerly anticipate many more of her captivating works. –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 who must decide how much she’s willing to give up for 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 awaiting the 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

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

It's likely you've heard of N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth Trilogy, and for good reason. While her other fantasy novels are equally compelling, the trilogy, particularly The Obelisk Gate, stands out for its captivating writing, rich characters, and innovative magic system. The Fifth Season may initially challenge readers with its playful narrative structure, but the payoff is well worth it. The story follows Essun, a woman on a quest to find her husband, who murdered their son and kidnapped their daughter, all while navigating a recurring cataclysmic event and concealing her earth-manipulating powers. It's a Hugo Award-winning journey you won't want to miss. –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 collectable boxed set edition includes all three books in N. K. Jemisin's incredible 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 is a delight for fans of adventure and dark fantasy. Her retellings of classic fairy tales and horror stories are consistently engaging, blending gothic horror with dark fantasy. Her comedic timing and well-developed characters provide a balance to the often heavy themes in her work. From the slow exploration of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" to the Saint of Steel fantasy romance series, which tackles personal 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

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

It's no surprise that Han Kang, the recent Nobel Prize winner for Literature, is highly recommended. Her work, celebrated by figures like BTS, is truly exceptional. I was first introduced to her through The Vegetarian, a mesmerizing tale of a housewife who stops eating meat, leading to profound changes in her life. Her subsequent works, from Greek Lessons to Human Acts and We Do Not Part, continue to showcase her genius and fearless storytelling. –LB

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

Han Kang### The Vegetarian

1Celebrated by critics around the world, The Vegetarian is a darkly allegorical, Kafka-esque tale of power, obsession, and one woman’s struggle to break free from the violence both without and within her.$18.00 save 17%$15.00 at AmazonSee it at AmazonYume Kitasei

Yume Kitasei is a rising star in the sci-fi genre, already on her way to releasing her third novel. Her standalone stories quickly build immersive worlds and deliver fast-paced narratives. The Deep Sky, a gripping murder mystery set on a tech-filled spaceship, and The Stardust Grail, an Indiana Jones-style adventure, are both imaginative and engaging. I'm eagerly anticipating her next novel this fall. –MS

Notable works: The Deep Sky, Stardust Grail

Yume Kitasei### The Deep Sky

1Yume Kitasei's The Deep Sky is an enthralling sci-fi thriller debut about a mission into deep space that begins with a lethal explosion that leaves the survivors questioning the loyalty of the crew.$18.99 save 34%$12.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Carson Levine

Perfect for young readers dipping their toes into fantasy. –MF

Notable works: Ella Enchanted

Gail Carson Levine### Ella Enchanted

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

Sarah J. Maas is a powerhouse in the fantasy romance genre, known for her intricate world-building and detailed storytelling. Her A Court of Thorns and Roses series, now five books strong with more on the way, follows a young woman's journey in a magical realm among the Fae. Her debut series, Throne of Glass, an eight-book saga, showcases her early talent. The Crescent City series, with three books and a fourth forthcoming, further expands her universe. Maas's ability to craft strong characters and thrilling plots makes 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 audiobook.$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 touch of fantasy in The Beautiful Ones to dark vampire adventures in Certain Dark Things. Her works often delve into dark historical fantasy set in North America, particularly Mexico, offering a refreshing perspective. Her books are a must-have on my limited bookshelf space. –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 terrifying twist on classic gothic horror” (Kirkus Reviews) 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 writing is so captivating that I buy her books in hardcover and collect multiple editions. The Night Circus, a historical fantasy romance about two magicians destined for a battle at a mysterious circus, is a perfect escape. The Starless Sea, a winding tale about stories and an underground library, is equally enchanting. Both are 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 spell-casting novel is a feast for the senses and the heart.$19.00 save 51%$9.33 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHelen Oyeyemi

I get excited every time a new Helen Oyeyemi book is announced. Her unique voice is like chasing a playful ghost, and her novels are fantastical yet defy traditional fantasy. Inspired by Hans Christian Anderson folktales, her works, like Gingerbread, offer a fresh take on familiar stories. Oyeyemi's fever dream adventures challenge the norms of literary fiction, as Alexandra Kleeman noted in The Nation, likening her work to 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 gifted Helen Oyeyemi has written a love story like no other. Mr. Fox is a magical book, endlessly inventive, as witty and charming as it is profound in its truths about how we learn to be with one another.$18.00 save 25%$13.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonLeomi Sadler

Tummy Bugs is a vibrant collection of over a decade of Leomi Sadler's work, 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 of high fantasy mourning the end of Game of Thrones, Samantha Shannon's The Roots of Chaos series, starting with The Priory of the Orange Tree, is a must-read. This 845-page epic features rich characters, dragons, magic, suspense, and a satisfying twist. The prequel, A Day of Fallen Night, and the upcoming Among the Burning Flowers, continue the excitement. If you're looking to start 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 has been a force in comics for years, masterfully 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 work speaks volumes. She's truly remarkable, and her contributions to the medium are invaluable. –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, are stunning reimaginings of the Chinese legend of the moon goddess. These romantic adventures are beautifully paced, offering context to Chinese mythology while keeping the action thrilling. The story follows Xingyin, the hidden daughter of the exiled moon goddess, on her quest to free her mother. Tan's complex characters and romantic pacing make these novels stand out 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 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 illustrations. It captures the essence of feeling lost online, in the world, or within oneself. –KP

Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle

Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy

1With a stiff, frightening pen, Nightcore shows us the world of a young man attempting to escape a world he feels fundamentally alienated from by immersing himself in technology—aligning with Morgan’s own experience 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 a refuge for me during tough times, making me feel less alone. Her work has earned her numerous awards, including a 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 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 gripping adult fantasy romance that follows a young woman's journey at a war college for dragon riders. The series is brutal yet balanced, with violence integral to the plot but never overshadowing the characters and world-building. Yarros excels at creating relatable characters facing serious challenges, weaving romance seamlessly into the narrative. The series, now five books strong with the third released on January 21, 2025, is full of unexpected twists and turns, making you deeply attached to the characters and their dragons. –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