Top 20 Female Authors Chosen by IGN Women

As March marks Women’s History Month in the US, we wanted to celebrate by highlighting the women at IGN and their favorite women authors. Last year, we shared staff picks of games, movies, and TV, but this year, we're focusing on another beloved hobby: reading. When we asked the women of IGN, "Who are your favorite women authors?" we received an inspiring list that spans various genres and styles. Join us as we explore these remarkable authors and celebrate the women of IGN and their literary influences!

Sharon Creech

Her stories of love, grief, and understanding the flawed human existence are nothing short of excellent. –Marhyan Franzen

Notable works: Walk Two Moons, Chasing Redbird

Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons

1In her own singularly beautiful style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech intricately weaves together two tales, one funny, one bittersweet, to create a heartwarming, compelling, and utterly moving story of love, loss, and the complexity 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 often male-dominated world of comics. Her work on Marvel's Captain Marvel series brought the iconic character Carol Danvers into the spotlight, influencing the MCU's portrayal years later. Beyond the big names, DeConnick's indie comics like Pretty Deadly and Bitch Planet offer unique narratives, from mystical westerns to dystopian sci-fi with a feminist twist. Her latest project, FML, from Dark Horse Comics, delves into supernatural themes. If you haven't read 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

1As Earth's Mightiest Hero, Captain Marvel is exactly where she's always deserved to be. But as she navigates this crossroads in her life, a dramatic decision sends her to the stars - right into the middle of an intergalactic war!$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter

Sarah Rose Etter's writing is uniquely weird yet profoundly clear, resonating with those who appreciate unconventional narratives. With only two novels published so far, both have been standout favorites. The Book of X explores the surreal life of a woman born into a family of meat farmers, while Ripe follows a young woman's harrowing experience at a San Francisco startup, haunted by an ominous void. Etter's ability to blend the surreal with the relatable is truly remarkable, and I eagerly anticipate more of her work. –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 am eagerly anticipating 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, a beautifully illustrated 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

You've likely heard of N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth Trilogy, and for good reason. While her other fantasy works are equally compelling, the trilogy, especially The Obelisk Gate, stands out for its captivating storytelling, rich characters, and innovative magic system. The Fifth Season may initially challenge with its narrative style, but the payoff is well worth it. Follow Essun as she pursues her husband, who killed their son and abducted their daughter, all while navigating a world on the brink of cataclysmic change. This Hugo Award-winning series is a must-read. –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 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 and a touch of humor. Whether it's the eerie exploration of emotional abuse in What Moves the Dead or the enchanting Saint of Steel fantasy romance series, Kingfisher's work leaves readers 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” 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, a recent Nobel Prize winner in Literature, is highly recommended. Her works, such as The Vegetarian, which was translated into English in 2015, captivate readers with their haunting narratives. The Vegetarian follows a housewife's transformation after she stops eating meat, leading to profound changes in her life and relationships. Kang's subsequent works, like Greek Lessons and Human Acts, continue to impress with their thematic depth and emotional intensity. She is truly a genius and an absolute badass. –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 quickly making a name for herself in the sci-fi genre with her imaginative storytelling. Her debut, The Deep Sky, is a gripping murder mystery set on a spaceship, while The Stardust Grail offers an exciting adventure akin to Indiana Jones, involving an ancient alien artifact. Kitasei's ability to build engaging worlds quickly and deliver fast-paced narratives is impressive, and I look forward to her upcoming 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 diving into fantasy, Gail Carson Levine's works are enchanting. –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 reigns supreme in the fantasy romance genre, captivating readers with her intricate world-building and compelling narratives. Best known for A Court of Thorns and Roses, a series that explores a young woman's journey in a magical realm filled with Fae, Maas's storytelling prowess is undeniable. Her other series, Throne of Glass and Crescent City, further showcase her talent for crafting engaging stories with strong characters and unexpected twists. For those seeking epic fantasy with a romantic twist, 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

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 fantasy twist 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 fresh perspectives. Her ability to captivate readers across different genres makes her a standout author, and her books are a must-have on any 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 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. The Night Circus, a historical fantasy romance set in a mysterious circus, is a lush escape that pulls readers out of any reading slump. The Starless Sea, a tale about stories set in an underground realm, is equally enchanting and best enjoyed with a warm cup of tea. Morgenstern's prose is seductive and captivating, making her novels instant favorites. –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

Helen Oyeyemi's work is a thrilling adventure, blending elements of fantasy with a unique twist on literary fiction. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's folktales, her novels like Gingerbread and Mr. Fox are fever dream-like experiences that challenge traditional storytelling. As Alexandra Kleeman noted, Oyeyemi's writing has a discombobulating yet exhilarating quality, making her one of the most exciting authors to watch. –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 Leomi Sadler's work, showcasing her unique blend of 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 is a perfect remedy. Starting with The Priory of the Orange Tree, this series offers rich characters, dragons, magic, and suspense in an 845-page epic. With prequels like A Day of Fallen Night and the upcoming Among the Burning Flowers, Shannon's work is a must-read for anyone looking to dive into a new fantasy 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's contributions to comics and other media are unparalleled, 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 is truly exceptional. Don't miss out on her incredible storytelling! –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, is a stunning reimagining of the Chinese legend of the moon goddess. The duology, completed with Heart of the Sun Warrior, offers a romantic adventure with a deep understanding of Chinese mythology. Protagonist Xingyin's journey to free her exiled mother from the moon is both epic and inspiring, making Tan's work a standout in romantic fantasy. –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 beautifully drawn yet unsettling images that capture the feeling of being lost in the digital 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 books for young adults tackle difficult topics such as grief, substance abuse, and abandonment. Growing up with her stories provided solace during tough times, making her characters relatable and comforting. Wilson's numerous awards, including a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire, reflect her significant contribution 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 offers a gripping adult fantasy romance centered around a war college for dragon riders. The series, which includes Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, and Onyx Storm, skillfully balances violence with deep character development and world-building. Yarros's storytelling is filled with unexpected twists, making readers deeply invested in the characters and their journeys. The third book was released on January 21, 2025, with two more to come. –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