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Top 20 Female Authors Chosen by IGN Women

Author:Kristen Update:May 18,2025

As March marks Women’s History Month in the US, we at IGN are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the remarkable women within our team. Last year, we celebrated with staff picks of games, movies, and TV shows. This year, we're turning the page to another beloved pastime: reading. We asked the women of IGN to share their favorite female authors, and the result is a diverse and inspiring list that spans across genres and styles. Join us as we celebrate both the women of IGN and the incredible female authors they admire!

Sharon Creech

Sharon Creech's storytelling is a profound exploration of love, grief, and the intricacies of human life. Her narratives resonate deeply, offering readers a heartfelt journey through the complexities of existence. –Marhyan Franzen

Notable works: Walk Two Moons, Chasing Redbird

Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons

1In her distinctive and beautifully crafted style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech masterfully intertwines two stories, one humorous and one poignant, into a touching and compelling narrative about love, loss, and the intricate tapestry 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 predominantly male world of comics. Her work with Marvel, particularly bringing the Captain Marvel title to Carol Danvers, has had a lasting impact, influencing even the MCU. Beyond the mainstream, DeConnick's voice resonates in indie comics with titles like Pretty Deadly and Bitch Planet, showcasing her versatility and commitment to strong storytelling. Her ongoing project, FML, from Dark Horse Comics, continues to captivate with its supernatural flair. If you haven't yet delved into her work, you're missing out on a remarkable talent. –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 rightfully takes her place at the forefront. As she navigates life's crossroads, a pivotal choice propels her into an interstellar conflict!$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter

Sarah Rose Etter crafts narratives that are both bizarre and strikingly clear, resonating with readers who appreciate the unconventional. With only two novels to her name, both have stood out as favorites upon release. The Book of X offers a surreal yet relatable exploration of a woman's life on a generational meat farm, while Ripe delves into the surreal experience of working at a San Francisco startup, echoing themes found in Rose Glass’s Saint Maud. Etter's unique voice promises many more captivating stories to come. –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 a woman's journey in Silicon Valley and her quest for success, from an award-winning writer praised by Roxane Gay as "utterly unique and remarkable."$18.00 save 12%$15.81 at AmazonSee it at AmazonIsabel Greenberg

I'm eagerly anticipating the film adaptation of this feminist medieval tale and can't wait to see Charli XCX 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 to celebrate the hidden legacy of female storytellers in a medieval world.$11.31 See it at AmazonN.K Jemisin

N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth Trilogy is likely not a new recommendation, but its brilliance cannot be overstated. While all her works are worthy of attention, the trilogy's second book, The Obelisk Gate, stands out with its captivating narrative, compelling characters, and innovative magic system. The Fifth Season may initially challenge with its unique storytelling, but the payoff is immense. Follow Essun as she hunts her husband, who killed their son and abducted their daughter, all while navigating a world on the brink of cataclysm and hiding her earth-manipulating powers. A Hugo Award-winning journey awaits. –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 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 astounding, and her adventurous retakes on classic fairy tales and horror stories are a delight. Her work often delves into gothic horror and dark fantasy, yet her comedic timing and well-crafted characters bring balance to the darker themes. From the haunting exploration of emotional abuse in What Moves the Dead to the poignant Saint of Steel series, Kingfisher's narratives leave readers both moved 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 the Hugo, Locus, & Nebula award-winning author T. Kingfisher.$14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHan Kang

Recommending Han Kang, the recent Nobel Prize winner for Literature, might seem obvious, but her work is truly exceptional. The Vegetarian, which introduced me to her writing upon its English translation in 2015, is a mesmerizing and disturbing tale of a housewife's descent into self-starvation. Her subsequent works, from Greek Lessons to Human Acts and We Do Not Part, showcase her mastery of exploring complex themes. Han Kang is not just a genius but an absolute badass. –LB

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

Han Kang### The Vegetarian

1Celebrated globally, The Vegetarian is a darkly allegorical, Kafka-esque narrative of power, obsession, and one woman's fight to break free from internal and external violence.$18.00 save 17%$15.00 at AmazonSee it at AmazonYume Kitasei

Yume Kitasei, despite being newly published, is quickly making a name for herself in sci-fi. Her standalone novels build immersive worlds with swift, engaging storytelling. The Deep Sky, her debut, is a gripping murder mystery set on a spaceship destined for humanity's new home. The Stardust Grail follows with an adventurous quest for an ancient alien artifact. Both novels are imaginative and unputdownable, and I eagerly await her next release. –MS

Notable works: The Deep Sky, Stardust Grail

Yume Kitasei### The Deep Sky

1Yume Kitasei's debut sci-fi thriller, The Deep Sky, follows a deep space mission that turns deadly, leaving the crew questioning loyalty and survival.$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 tale of a spirited heroine will enchant readers of all ages. $9.99 save 30%$6.99 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas reigns supreme in the fantasy romance genre with her intricate world-building and storytelling. Best known for A Court of Thorns and Roses, a series set in a magical realm where a young woman discovers her strength amidst the Fae, Maas's work is captivating. Her other series, Throne of Glass and Crescent City, further expand her richly crafted universe. For those seeking epic fantasy with romance and intrigue, Maas's novels are 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 tale blending romance, adventure, and faerie lore into an unforgettable read.$19.00 save 42%$10.95 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSilvia Moreno-Garcia

Silvia Moreno-Garcia fearlessly explores diverse genres, from historical romance with fantasy elements in The Beautiful Ones to dark vampire adventures in Certain Dark Things. Her stories often focus on dark historical fantasy, particularly set in Mexico, offering a fresh perspective. Each of her works finds a cherished spot on my shelf. –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, Mexican Gothic delivers a chilling twist on classic gothic horror set in the 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 dreamlike experiences. Her work is so compelling that I buy multiple copies of her hardcovers. The Night Circus, a historical fantasy romance about two rival magicians, is a perfect escape from reading slumps. The Starless Sea delves into a mystical library of stories, offering a captivating journey 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

Helen Oyeyemi's unique voice is a delight, her novels like chasing a playful ghost through a literary adventure. Her works, often inspired by Hans Christian Andersen tales, defy traditional genres. Gingerbread, for instance, offers a modern twist on Hansel and Gretel. As Alexandra Kleeman noted to The Nation, Oyeyemi's work feels like navigating a moving vehicle with a full cup of hot tea—challenging yet exhilarating. –LB

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

Helen Oyeyemi### Mr. Fox

1Helen Oyeyemi's extraordinary talent shines in Mr. Fox, a magical love story that's endlessly inventive and profoundly insightful.$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, 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 introduces readers to her deeply personal and exciting cartooning voice.$25.42 See it at AmazonSamantha Shannon

For fans mourning the end of Game of Thrones and awaiting George R.R. Martin's next release, Samantha Shannon's The Roots of Chaos series offers solace. Starting with The Priory of the Orange Tree, this high fantasy saga delivers rich characters, dragons, magic, and suspense. With a prequel already published 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 world divided, a queendom without an heir, and an ancient enemy awakens.$10.92 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Simone

Gail Simone's long career in comics showcases her ability to capture the subtle, powerful moments in superheroes' lives. As the first female solo writer for Uncanny X-Men and a GLAAD award winner, her work is 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 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 a captivating romantic adventure set within Chinese mythology. Follow Xingyin, the hidden daughter of the exiled moon goddess, on her quest to free her mother. Tan's storytelling and character development make these novels standout in the romantic fantasy 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, following a young woman'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 unsettling beauty that captures the essence of feeling lost in the digital world or within oneself. –KP

Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle

Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy

1With a striking and unsettling pen, Nightcore Energy explores the world of a young man escaping alienation through technology, reflecting Morgan’s own experiences as a teenage web-artist.See it at Organ.FailJacqueline Wilson

Jacqueline Wilson's books for young adults tackle challenging topics like grief, substance abuse, and bullying. Growing up, her stories offered me solace and a sense of connection during tough times. Her numerous awards, including a Dame Grand Cross from King Charles III, highlight 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 mother's beauty but worries about her spending habits and late nights, which are both scary and unsettling.$21.31 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonRebecca Yarros

Rebecca Yarros's Empyrean series is a compelling adult fantasy romance about a young woman at a war college for dragon riders. The series skillfully blends intense violence with rich storytelling, character development, and world-building. Yarros's ability to weave romance into the narrative enhances the plot, while her unexpected twists and turns keep readers engaged. 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