Top 20 Female Authors Chosen by IGN Women

As March marks Women’s History Month in the US, we're excited to celebrate by highlighting the women at IGN and their favorite women authors. Last year, we shared staff picks of games, movies, and TV shows, but this year, we're focusing on another beloved pastime: reading. When we asked the women of IGN about their favorite women authors, they shared an inspiring list that spans various genres and styles. Let's dive into the authors and comic artists they admire, celebrating both the women of IGN and their literary heroines!

Sharon Creech

Her stories of love, grief, and the complexities of human existence are beautifully crafted and deeply moving. –Marhyan Franzen

Notable works: Walk Two Moons, Chasing Redbird

Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons

1In her unique and poignant style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech intertwines two stories, one humorous and one bittersweet, to create a heartwarming, compelling, and deeply moving tale of love, loss, and the intricacies of human emotions.$9.99 save 30%$6.95 at AmazonSee it at AmazonKelly Sue DeConnick

A trailblazer in the male-dominated world of comics, Kelly Sue DeConnick has made significant contributions to the industry. At Marvel, she redefined Captain Marvel by introducing Carol Danvers to the role, a change that resonated in the MCU with her credited as a consultant. Beyond Marvel and DC, her work on indie comics like Pretty Deadly and Bitch Planet showcases her versatility, blending mystical westerns with sci-fi and feminist themes. Her ongoing project, FML, from Dark Horse Comics, adds a supernatural twist to her portfolio. If you haven't yet experienced her work, you're missing out on a truly remarkable 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 stands where she deserves to be. Her journey takes her to the stars amidst an intergalactic war, showcasing her strength and determination.$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter

Sarah Rose Etter's novels are uniquely weird yet strikingly clear, resonating with readers who appreciate the unconventional. With only two novels to her name 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 delves into the eerie world of a San Francisco startup, blending surrealism with the haunting presence of a void. Her ability to craft such compelling narratives leaves me eagerly anticipating 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) that examines the price of success in Silicon Valley, penned by an award-winning author whose unique voice Roxane Gay praises 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 collection weaves together folk tales and myths, celebrating the secret legacy of female storytellers in a medieval world.$11.31 See it at AmazonN.K Jemisin

If you haven't yet delved into N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth Trilogy, you're missing out on a masterpiece. While her other fantasy works are equally compelling, the trilogy, especially The Obelisk Gate, stands out for its captivating narrative, rich characters, and innovative magic system. The Fifth Season might challenge you with its unique storytelling, but the payoff is well worth it. Follow Essun's harrowing journey as she seeks her husband, who has murdered their son and kidnapped their daughter, all while navigating a world on the brink of a cataclysmic event. It's a gripping, Hugo Award-winning saga. –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 in N. K. Jemisin's critically acclaimed, 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 never ceases to amaze me, and her fresh takes on classic fairy tales and horror stories are a delight. Her work often ventures into gothic horror and dark fantasy, yet her stories are balanced with humor and well-developed characters. Whether it's the chilling exploration of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" or the enchanting Saint of Steel series, which delves into themes of identity and loss, Kingfisher's narratives leave a lasting impact. –MS

Notable works: Nettle & Bone, What Moves the Dead, Paladin's Grace

T. Kingfisher### What Moves the Dead

1A gripping reimagining of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher” by the acclaimed author T. Kingfisher, who has won Hugo, Locus, and Nebula awards.$14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHan Kang

It might seem obvious to recommend a Nobel Prize winner, but Han Kang's genius is undeniable. Her work, first introduced to me with The Vegetarian, captivated me with its haunting exploration of a housewife's decision to stop eating meat, leading to profound consequences. Her subsequent works, including Greek Lessons and Human Acts, further showcase her mastery of themes ranging from personal transformation to political atrocities. Han Kang is truly a literary force. –LB

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

Han Kang### The Vegetarian

1Celebrated globally, The Vegetarian is a chilling allegory of power, obsession, and one woman’s quest for liberation, reminiscent of Kafka’s style.$18.00 save 17%$15.00 at AmazonSee it at AmazonYume Kitasei

Yume Kitasei is a rising star in sci-fi literature, already on her way to publishing a 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 adventurous quest for an ancient alien artifact, showcase her talent for crafting engaging tales. I'm eagerly awaiting 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 mystery about a deep space mission rocked by a deadly explosion, sparking doubts among the crew.$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 enchants readers of all ages with its charm and wit.$9.99 save 30%$6.99 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas reigns supreme in the fantasy romance genre, crafting intricate worlds and compelling narratives. Her A Court of Thorns and Roses series, now five books strong with more on the way, follows a young woman's journey into a magical realm where she discovers her inner strength amidst conflicts with the Fae. Maas's earlier Throne of Glass series and the ongoing Crescent City series further demonstrate her prowess in world-building and character development. Her stories are a perfect blend of fantasy, romance, and thrilling twists. –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 captivating blend of romance, adventure, and faerie lore that will enchant listeners.$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. Her work often focuses on dark historical fantasy, particularly in Mexico, offering a refreshing perspective. Whether it's the eerie atmosphere of Mexican Gothic or the mythological journey in Gods of Jade and Shadow, her novels are a must-read. –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 vibrant world of 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 enchanting prose and imaginative worlds are so captivating that I buy her books in hardcover and collect multiple editions. The Night Circus, a historical fantasy about two rival magicians at a mysterious circus, never fails to pull me out of a reading slump. The Starless Sea, a labyrinthine tale about stories, takes you from our world into an underground library. 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 lush, seductive prose, this novel is a sensory and emotional feast that transports readers to a magical world.$19.00 save 51%$9.33 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHelen Oyeyemi

I get excited every time Helen Oyeyemi announces a new book. Her unique voice is like chasing a whimsical ghost through a literary labyrinth. Her novels, often inspired by Hans Christian Anderson's tales, defy genre conventions. Gingerbread, for instance, offers a capitalist twist on Hansel and Gretel. Oyeyemi's work, as Alexandra Kleeman described to The Nation, has “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

1Helen Oyeyemi's extraordinary talent shines in this unconventional love story, blending magic, wit, and profound insights into human relationships.$18.00 save 25%$13.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonLeomi Sadler

Tummy Bugs is a vibrant collection spanning over a decade of Leomi Sadler's work, blending bright colors with dark humor. –KP

Notable works: Tummy Bugs

Leomi Sadler### Tummy Bugs

1This collection introduces and retrospects Leomi Sadler's dynamic and personal cartooning style, full of energy and wit.$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, beginning with The Priory of the Orange Tree, is a must-read. This epic saga, filled with rich characters, dragons, magic, and suspense, offers a satisfying twist and keeps readers enthralled. With a prequel already released and another on the way, it's 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 divided world, a queendom without an heir, and an ancient enemy awaken in this epic tale.$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 work speaks volumes. She's truly remarkable. –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

2Essential 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 duology, completed with Heart of the Sun Warrior, offers romantic adventures steeped in Chinese mythology. Protagonist Xingyin's journey to free her imprisoned mother is both epic and inspiring. Tan's storytelling, with its complex characters and romantic pacing, makes these novels standout romantic fantasies. –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

1This romantic debut epic fantasy, inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang’e, follows Xingyin’s quest to free her mother.$17.99 save 32%$12.18 at AmazonMorgan Vogel

Morgan Vogel's work is both visceral and intelligent, with beautifully unsettling illustrations 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 striking pen, Nightcore Energy explores a young man's attempt to escape 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, and abandonment with sensitivity. Growing up, her books were a refuge for me during tough times, offering relatable characters and solace. Her numerous awards, including a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire from King Charles III, reflect her significant contributions to literature. –Meg Koepp

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

Jacqueline Wilson### The Illustrated Mum

2Marigold's daughter admires her beauty but struggles with her mother's spending and nocturnal habits, which are both fascinating and frightening.$21.31 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonRebecca Yarros

Rebecca Yarros’s Empyrean series blends adult fantasy with romance, following a young woman at a war college for dragon riders. The series starts with intense action and violence but never loses sight of its characters and intricate world-building. Yarros crafts relatable characters facing significant challenges, with themes of friendship and support woven throughout. The romance enhances the plot without overshadowing the fantasy elements. With unexpected twists and deep world-building, the series, now with three books released and two more to come, keeps readers hooked. –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)

1Dive into this enthralling fantasy series by #1 New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Yarros, featuring Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, and Onyx Storm.$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