IGN Women's Top 20 Female Authors Revealed

In celebration of Women's History Month in the US during March, 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, but this year, we're turning our attention to another cherished pastime: reading. We asked the women of IGN about their favorite women authors, and the diverse, inspiring responses we received have created a vibrant tapestry of literary appreciation. Let's dive into the authors and comic artists they admire, celebrating both the women of IGN and their chosen literary heroes.

Sharon Creech

Her stories delve into the intricacies of love, grief, and the beautifully flawed nature of human existence. Sharon Creech's work resonates deeply, capturing the essence of life's complexities with grace and empathy. –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 to craft a heartwarming and compelling story of love, loss, and the rich tapestry of human emotions.$9.99 save 30%$6.95 at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Kelly Sue DeConnick

A trailblazer in the often male-dominated world of comics, Kelly Sue DeConnick has made significant strides in the industry. Her tenure at Marvel saw her redefine the role of Carol Danvers as Captain Marvel, a change that resonated through to the MCU with her consulting credits on the films. Beyond the mainstream, her contributions to indie comics like Pretty Deadly and Bitch Planet showcase her versatility, blending mystical western and sci-fi dystopian feminist themes. Her ongoing project, FML, from Dark Horse Comics, adds a supernatural twist to her portfolio. DeConnick's writing is not just compelling; it's transformative. –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 embodies strength and courage. Her journey takes a cosmic turn as she navigates an intergalactic war, showcasing her rightful place among the stars.$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at Amazon

Sarah Rose Etter

Sarah Rose Etter's novels resonate with those who appreciate the unconventional. With only two novels published, both have quickly become favorites for their unique blend of the surreal and the profoundly relatable. The Book of X explores generational ties and personal struggles, while Ripe delves into the chaotic world of a San Francisco startup and the haunting presence of a void. Etter's ability to craft such vivid, thought-provoking narratives leaves readers eagerly anticipating her future works. –Leanne Butkovic

Notable works: Ripe, The Book of X

Sarah Rose Etter### Ripe: A Novel

1A surreal journey with a dark, captivating edge, Ripe explores the lengths one woman will go to succeed in the high-pressure world of Silicon Valley, as praised by Roxane Gay for its unique and remarkable style.$18.00 save 12%$15.81 at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Isabel Greenberg

The anticipation for the film adaptation of Isabel Greenberg's feminist medieval tale, featuring Charli XCX as Rosa, is palpable. Greenberg's work, reminiscent of The Arabian Nights, weaves together a tapestry of folk tales and myths, celebrating the legacy of female storytellers. –Kelly Pham

Notable works: The 100 Nights of Hero

Isabel Greenberg### The One Hundred Nights of Hero

1In the spirit of The Arabian Nights, this beautifully illustrated book tells a captivating story of female storytellers in an imagined medieval world, preserving their secret legacy through myth and folklore.$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 literature. While her other works are equally compelling, the trilogy's innovative storytelling, richly drawn characters, and unique magic system set it apart. The Fifth Season introduces us to Essun, a woman on a quest for justice and survival in a world plagued by cataclysmic events. Jemisin's narrative prowess earned her multiple Hugo Awards, making her trilogy an unforgettable journey. –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 of 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 Amazon

T. Kingfisher

T. Kingfisher's prolific output never ceases to amaze, and her knack for reimagining classic tales and horror stories is a delight. Her work often explores gothic horror and dark fantasy, yet her humor and well-crafted characters bring a balance to the darker themes. From the chilling exploration of emotional abuse in What Moves the Dead to the enchanting Saint of Steel series, Kingfisher's stories are both thrilling and emotionally resonant. –MS

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

T. Kingfisher### What Moves the Dead

1A gripping and atmospheric retelling of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher,” this novel by Hugo, Locus, & Nebula award-winning author T. Kingfisher is a must-read for fans of horror and literary classics.$14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Han Kang

Han Kang, the recent Nobel Prize winner for Literature, has garnered worldwide acclaim, and for good reason. Her novel The Vegetarian, translated into English in 2015, offers a mesmerizing and unsettling narrative about a woman's transformation through her dietary choices. Kang's subsequent works, from Greek Lessons to Human Acts and We Do Not Part, continue to explore profound themes with unparalleled depth and artistry. Her writing is not just literature; it's an experience. –LB

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

Han Kang### The Vegetarian

1A dark, allegorical tale that captures the essence of power and obsession, The Vegetarian explores a woman's journey to break free from societal expectations, lauded by critics worldwide for its Kafka-esque intensity.$18.00 save 17%$15.00 at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Yume Kitasei

Emerging as a fresh voice in sci-fi, Yume Kitasei's rapid rise is marked by her ability to craft engaging, self-contained stories. Her debut, The Deep Sky, is a gripping murder mystery set on a spaceship, while The Stardust Grail offers an adventurous quest for an ancient artifact. Kitasei's imaginative storytelling promises a bright future in the genre. –MS

Notable works: The Deep Sky, Stardust Grail

Yume Kitasei### The Deep Sky

1A thrilling sci-fi debut, The Deep Sky follows a mission into deep space that turns deadly, leaving the survivors to navigate betrayal and mystery.$18.99 save 34%$12.59 at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Gail Carson Levine

Gail Carson Levine's enchanting tales are perfect for young readers venturing into the world of fantasy. Her Newbery Honor-winning story, Ella Enchanted, captivates with its charm and empowering narrative, making it a timeless favorite. –MF

Notable works: Ella Enchanted

Gail Carson Levine### Ella Enchanted

1A beloved tale of a feisty heroine, Ella Enchanted continues to enchant readers with its heartwarming story and timeless appeal.$9.99 save 30%$6.99 at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Sarah J. Maas

A master of fantasy romance, Sarah J. Maas has created expansive, intricate worlds that captivate readers. Her A Court of Thorns and Roses series follows a young woman's journey through a magical realm filled with Fae, while her Throne of Glass series and Crescent City series further showcase her talent for world-building and character development. Maas's stories are a perfect blend of fantasy, romance, and thrilling plot 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, this seductive and adventurous novel weaves together romance and faerie lore into an unforgettable tale.$19.00 save 42%$10.95 at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Silvia Moreno-Garcia's versatility across genres is remarkable. From historical romance with fantasy elements in The Beautiful Ones to dark vampire tales in Certain Dark Things, her work is consistently engaging. Her novels often set in North America, particularly Mexico, bring a refreshing perspective to dark historical fantasy. –MS

Notable works: Mexican Gothic, Gods of Jade and Shadow, Silver Nitrate

Silvia Moreno-Garcia### Mexican Gothic

1Set in glamorous 1950s Mexico, Mexican Gothic offers 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 Amazon

Erin Morgenstern

Erin Morgenstern's novels, The Night Circus and The Starless Sea, are immersive dreamscapes. The Night Circus, a historical fantasy romance, transports readers to a mysterious circus where two magicians' fates intertwine. The Starless Sea delves into the realm of stories themselves, offering a labyrinthine journey through an underground library. Morgenstern's prose is enchanting, making her novels a must-read for lovers of literary fantasy. –MS

Notable works: The Night Circus, The Starless Sea

Erin Morgenstern### The Night Circus

1A mesmerizing blend of rich prose and fantasy romance, The Night Circus draws readers into a world of magic and wonder, perfect for breaking out of a reading slump.$19.00 save 51%$9.33 at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Helen Oyeyemi

Helen Oyeyemi's novels are a unique blend of the fantastical and the literary, often inspired by folktales yet distinctly original. Her works, like Gingerbread and Mr. Fox, challenge the conventions of literary fiction with their dreamlike narratives and inventive storytelling. Oyeyemi's voice is truly singular, offering readers an exhilarating literary experience. –LB

Notable works: Parasol Against the Axe, Gingerbread, Boy Snow Bird, Mr. Fox

Helen Oyeyemi### Mr. Fox

1A magical love story that defies convention, Mr. Fox showcases Helen Oyeyemi's extraordinary talent for crafting inventive and profound narratives.$18.00 save 25%$13.59 at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Leomi Sadler

Leomi Sadler's Tummy Bugs is a vibrant collection of her work, filled with bright colors and dark humor. This retrospective introduces readers to Sadler's unique and deeply personal cartooning style. –KP

Notable works: Tummy Bugs

Leomi Sadler### Tummy Bugs

1A collection spanning over a decade, Tummy Bugs offers an introduction to Leomi Sadler's energetic and personal cartooning, marked by vivid colors and dark humor.$25.42 See it at Amazon

Samantha Shannon

For fans of high fantasy, Samantha Shannon's Roots of Chaos series, starting with The Priory of the Orange Tree, is a must-read. With its rich characters, dragons, and intricate plot, this series fills the void left by the end of Game of Thrones. The series continues with prequels, offering readers a deep dive into a meticulously crafted 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, and an ancient enemy awakening set the stage for this epic high fantasy novel.$10.92 See it at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Gail Simone

Gail Simone's contributions to comics are profound, capturing the quieter, yet powerful moments in superheroes' lives. As the first female solo writer for Uncanny X-Men and a GLAAD award winner, her work is both groundbreaking and deeply moving. –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 Amazon

Sue Lynn Tan

Sue Lynn Tan's Celestial Kingdom Duology, starting with Daughter of the Moon Goddess, offers a lush reimagining of Chinese mythology. The series follows Xingyin, the hidden daughter of the exiled moon goddess, on her epic journey to free her mother. Tan's storytelling, rich with romantic pacing and complex characters, makes this duology 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

1Inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang’e, this debut epic fantasy follows Xingyin on her quest to free her mother, blending romance and adventure.$17.99 save 32%$12.18 at Amazon

Morgan Vogel

Morgan Vogel's work is a compelling blend of visceral storytelling and intelligent commentary, captured through unsettling yet beautiful art. Her narratives explore the disorientation of being lost in the digital world, the physical world, or within oneself. –KP

Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle

Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy

1Nightcore Energy delves into the life of a young man trying to escape alienation through technology, reflecting Morgan Vogel's own experiences as a teenage web-artist.See it at Organ.Fail

Jacqueline Wilson

Jacqueline Wilson's novels for young adults tackle challenging topics such as grief, substance abuse, and abandonment with sensitivity and insight. Growing up with her books provided solace and connection for many, including those facing similar hardships. Wilson's recognition as a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire by King Charles III underscores her significant contributions to literature. –Meg Koepp

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

Jacqueline Wilson### The Illustrated Mum

2The Illustrated Mum explores the complexities of family life through the eyes of a daughter who admires her mother's beauty but struggles with her unpredictable behavior.$21.31 See it at AmazonSee it at Amazon

Rebecca 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 masterfully balances intense action and violence with deep character development and world-building. Yarros's storytelling weaves romance seamlessly into the narrative, creating a series that is both thrilling and emotionally engaging. –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 the captivating world of dragons and war with this stunning three-book set from #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.

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