Top 20 Female Authors Chosen by IGN Women
As March marks Women’s History Month in the US, we at IGN are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the incredible women within our team. Last year, we shared our favorite games, movies, and TV shows; this year, we're diving into the world of literature, celebrating the women of IGN and their favorite women authors. The responses to our question, "Who are your favorite women authors?" unveiled a rich tapestry of genres and styles, showcasing the diversity and depth of women's contributions to literature.
Sharon Creech
Her stories weave a profound tapestry of love, grief, and the intricacies of human existence, resonating deeply with readers. –Marhyan Franzen
Notable works: Walk Two Moons, Chasing Redbird
Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons
1In her distinctive and poignant style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech masterfully intertwines two narratives, blending humor and bittersweet moments into a heartwarming, compelling tale of love, loss, and the complexities of human emotions.$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 tenure at Marvel saw her pivotal role in redefining Captain Marvel, bringing Carol Danvers to the forefront, a legacy that transcended into the MCU with her consulting credits. Beyond Marvel, DeConnick's influence extends to indie comics, with works like Pretty Deadly and Bitch Planet showcasing her range from mystical westerns to dystopian feminist narratives. Her latest endeavor, FML from Dark Horse Comics, delves into supernatural themes. Her writing prowess and human spirit are not to be missed. –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 ascends to her rightful place. Yet, her journey takes a cosmic turn, thrusting her into the heart of an intergalactic conflict!$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter
Sarah Rose Etter crafts narratives that are both surreal and sharply observant, resonating with those who appreciate the unconventional. With only two novels published, both have left a significant mark on the literary world. The Book of X explores the surreal life of a woman born into a family of meat farmers, while Ripe delves into the eerie life at a Silicon Valley startup, echoing the unsettling atmosphere of Saint Maud. Etter's unique voice is a treasure in contemporary literature. –Leanne Butkovic
Notable works: Ripe, The Book of X
Sarah Rose Etter### Ripe: A Novel
1A surreal journey with a dark, compelling edge, Ripe explores the trials of a woman navigating the high-stakes world of Silicon Valley, highlighting her struggle and ambition.$18.00 save 12%$15.81 at AmazonSee it at AmazonIsabel Greenberg
The anticipation for the film adaptation of this feminist medieval tale is high, 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 a rich tapestry of folk tales and myths, celebrating the legacy of female storytellers in a medieval setting.$11.31 See it at AmazonN.K Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth Trilogy is a must-read for any fantasy enthusiast, though her other works are equally compelling. The trilogy, especially The Obelisk Gate, showcases her mastery in world-building, character development, and innovative magic systems. The Fifth Season may initially challenge readers with its narrative style, but the payoff is immensely rewarding. Follow Essun's gripping journey as she seeks justice and survival amidst a world on the brink of cataclysm. –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 volumes of N. K. Jemisin's groundbreaking, 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 testament to her storytelling prowess, particularly in reimagining classic fairy tales and horror. Her work often delves into gothic horror and dark fantasy, yet her characters and comedic pacing provide a unique balance to these heavy themes. From the unsettling exploration of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" to the enchanting Saint of Steel series, 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 chilling and atmospheric reinterpretation of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher,” this novel by Hugo, Locus, & Nebula award-winner T. Kingfisher captivates with its eerie allure.$14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHan Kang
Han Kang, the recent Nobel Prize winner for Literature, has earned global acclaim, even celebrated by BTS on social media. Her debut in English, The Vegetarian, is a haunting exploration of a woman's descent into self-denial and societal alienation. Kang's subsequent works, including Greek Lessons and Human Acts, continue to delve into profound themes with an arresting aesthetic. Her genius and boldness are undeniable. –LB
Notable works: We Do Not Part, The Vegetarian, Human Acts, Greek Lessons
Han Kang### The Vegetarian
1A darkly allegorical masterpiece, The Vegetarian explores themes of power, obsession, and a woman's struggle against external and internal violence, celebrated globally.$18.00 save 17%$15.00 at AmazonSee it at AmazonYume Kitasei
Emerging as a promising talent in sci-fi, Yume Kitasei's works offer compact yet expansive worlds. Her debut, The Deep Sky, is a gripping murder mystery set on a high-tech spaceship, while The Stardust Grail brings an adventurous quest for an ancient artifact. Kitasei's storytelling is quick-paced and imaginative, promising more exciting releases to come. –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 set in space, where a deadly explosion challenges the survivors' trust and 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 about a spirited heroine enchants readers of all ages, celebrating courage and independence.$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 detailed world-building and intricate storytelling. Her A Court of Thorns and Roses series transports readers to a magical realm where a young woman discovers her strength amidst Fae politics and romance. Maas's other series, Throne of Glass and Crescent City, further showcase her ability to weave compelling narratives around strong characters and thrilling plots. –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, this seductive blend of romance, adventure, and faerie lore creates an unforgettable tale.$19.00 save 42%$10.95 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSilvia Moreno-Garcia
Silvia Moreno-Garcia fearlessly explores various genres, from historical romance with fantasy elements in The Beautiful Ones to dark vampire tales in Certain Dark Things. Her work often centers on dark historical fantasy set in North America, particularly Mexico, offering a refreshing perspective. Her novels consistently find a cherished spot on any reader's shelf. –MS
Notable works: Mexican Gothic, Gods of Jade and Shadow, Silver Nitrate
Silvia Moreno-Garcia### Mexican Gothic
1Set in the glamorous 1950s Mexico, Mexican Gothic delivers a chilling twist on classic gothic horror, showcasing Moreno-Garcia's mastery of suspense and atmosphere.$17.00 save 43%$9.73 at AmazonSee it at AmazonErin Morgenstern
Erin Morgenstern's novels, The Night Circus and The Starless Sea, envelop readers in dreamlike worlds. The Night Circus, a historical fantasy romance, tells the tale of two magicians destined for a magical duel at a mysterious circus. The Starless Sea, on the other hand, takes readers on a journey through a subterranean library of stories. Both novels are beautifully crafted and perfect for those looking to escape into a mesmerizing narrative. –MS
Notable works: The Night Circus, The Starless Sea
Erin Morgenstern### The Night Circus
1Written in lush, enchanting prose, this novel is a sensory delight, weaving a tale of magic and romance that captivates the heart.$19.00 save 51%$9.33 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHelen Oyeyemi
Helen Oyeyemi's work is a literary adventure that defies categorization, blending elements of fantasy and folktales in a unique, captivating way. Her novels, such as Gingerbread and Mr. Fox, offer fever dream narratives that challenge conventional storytelling. Oyeyemi's voice is singular and thrilling, promising an exhilarating reading experience. –LB
Notable works: Parasol Against the Axe, Gingerbread, Boy Snow Bird, Mr. Fox
Helen Oyeyemi### Mr. Fox
1Helen Oyeyemi crafts an enchanting love story that defies norms, offering a magical and inventive tale that delves deep into the nuances of human connection.$18.00 save 25%$13.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonLeomi Sadler
Tummy Bugs showcases over a decade of Leomi Sadler's work, blending vibrant colors with dark humor in a collection that is both an introduction and a retrospective of her unique cartooning voice. –KP
Notable works: Tummy Bugs
Leomi Sadler### Tummy Bugs
1This collection of Leomi Sadler's energetic work serves as a vibrant introduction and retrospective to her deeply personal and engaging cartooning style.$25.42 See it at AmazonSamantha Shannon
For fans of high fantasy yearning for a new series, Samantha Shannon's The Roots of Chaos, beginning with The Priory of the Orange Tree, delivers a rich tapestry of characters, dragons, magic, and suspense. Her ability to weave intricate plots and compelling narratives makes her a must-read for those awaiting the next epic fantasy saga. –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)
1In a divided world, a queendom without an heir faces an ancient enemy's awakening, marking the beginning of an unforgettable high fantasy journey.$10.92 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Simone
Gail Simone's long career in comics and other media highlights her talent for capturing the quieter, yet powerful moments in superheroes' lives. Her work, including her historic role as the first female solo writer for Uncanny X-Men, showcases her profound storytelling ability. Simone's contributions to the genre are 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
2A core group of essential X-Men rise FROM THE ASHES to navigate a world without their home and leader, 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, offer a lush reimagining of Chinese mythology. These novels follow Xingyin, the hidden daughter of the moon goddess, on an epic quest to free her mother. Tan's storytelling, enriched with romantic pacing and complex characters, makes these novels 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
1Inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang’e, this debut epic fantasy follows a young woman's inspiring journey to liberate her mother.$17.99 save 32%$12.18 at AmazonMorgan Vogel
Morgan Vogel's work is both visually striking and emotionally profound, capturing the essence of feeling lost in the digital age or within oneself. Her art is a blend of beauty and unsettling introspection. –KP
Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle
Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy
1Nightcore Energy delves into the life of a young man seeking escape through technology, reflecting Vogel's own experiences as a teenage web-artist. See it at Organ.FailJacqueline Wilson
Jacqueline Wilson's novels for young adults tackle challenging topics such as grief, substance abuse, and abandonment with sensitivity and insight. Her stories provided solace and understanding during my own difficult times, reflecting her ability to connect deeply with her readers. Her contributions to literature have been recognized with numerous awards, including a prestigious honor from King Charles III. –Meg Koepp
Notable works: "Girls" series, Think Again, The Illustrated Mum
Jacqueline Wilson### The Illustrated Mum
2Marigold's daughter admires her mother's beauty but fears her unpredictable behavior, highlighting the complex dynamics of family and love.$21.31 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonRebecca Yarros
Rebecca Yarros's Empyrean series offers a gripping adult fantasy romance, following a young woman's journey at a war college for dragon riders. The series blends intense action with deep character development and emotional storytelling, making it a compelling read for both fantasy and romance enthusiasts. Yarros's ability to craft complex plots and relatable characters keeps readers eagerly anticipating each new installment. –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 the captivating world of the Empyrean series, featuring three enthralling books 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
-
Jan 22,25Kingdom Hearts 4 Will Reboot the Series Kingdom Hearts creator Tetsuya Nomura recently hinted at a pivotal shift for the series with the upcoming fourth mainline installment. This article delves into his revelations about this crucial new chapter. Nomura Hints at a Series Conclusion with Kingdom Hearts 4 Kingdom Hearts 4: A Story Reset,
-
Jan 20,25‘Dungeons of Dreadrock 2’ Announced, Launching on Nintendo Switch in November with Mobile and PC Versions to Follow Approximately two and a half years ago, we were captivated by the delightful dungeon crawler, Dungeons of Dreadrock, developed by Christoph Minnameier. This top-down perspective game, reminiscent of classics like Dungeon Master and Eye of the Beholder, offered a unique puzzle-solving experience acr
-
Dec 10,24Cosplay Marvel Emerges: Elden Ring's Mohg Impresses A stunning Mohg cosplay, strikingly similar to the Elden Ring boss, has been shared online, captivating the gaming community. Mohg, Lord of Blood, a Demigod boss crucial to accessing the recent Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, has enjoyed renewed prominence. Elden Ring, a FromSoftware triumph released in
-
Dec 10,24Political Frenzy: Explore 400+ Meme-Generating Scandals! Dive into the chaotic world of American politics with "Political Party Frenzy," the new game from Aionic Labs that's guaranteed to be a meme-generating machine! Whether you're a seasoned political debate warrior or simply enjoy a good political laugh, this game has something for you. Here's the low