As March marks Women’s History Month in the US, we at IGN are proud to celebrate the incredible women who work here and their favorite women authors. Last year, we shared our top picks in games, movies, and TV, but this year, we're focusing on another cherished pastime: reading. We asked the women of IGN, "Who are your favorite women authors?" and the responses were diverse and enlightening, spanning across various genres and styles. Let's dive into the authors and comic artists they admire as we honor both the women of IGN and the talented women authors they love.
Sharon Creech
Her stories of love, grief, and understanding the flawed human existence are beautifully crafted and deeply moving. –Marhyan Franzen
Notable works: Walk Two Moons, Chasing Redbird
Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons
1In her signature, poetic style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech masterfully intertwines two narratives, one humorous and one poignant, to create a heartwarming and compelling tale of love, loss, and the intricacies 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 work on Marvel's Captain Marvel, where she transformed Carol Danvers into the iconic heroine, has had a lasting impact, even extending to her role as a consultant for the MCU films. Beyond Marvel, her contributions to indie comics like Pretty Deadly and Bitch Planet showcase her versatility, blending mystical western themes with sci-fi and feminist narratives. Her latest project, FML, from Dark Horse Comics, delves into the supernatural. If you haven't yet explored her work, you're missing out on the brilliance of an exceptional writer and an inspiring individual. –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 takes her rightful place among the stars. Her journey through a crossroads in life leads her into an intergalactic war, showcasing her strength and resilience.$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter
Sarah Rose Etter's unique and vivid storytelling resonates deeply with readers who appreciate the unconventional. 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 delves into the surreal and haunting experiences of a woman in a chaotic San Francisco startup. Etter's ability to weave the bizarre with the relatable is truly captivating, and I eagerly await many more of her works. –Leanne Butkovic
Notable works: Ripe, The Book of X
Sarah Rose Etter### Ripe: A Novel
1A surreal and darkly enchanting novel about a woman navigating the cutthroat world of Silicon Valley, with a narrative edge that's both captivating and unsettling.$18.00 save 12%$15.81 at AmazonSee it at AmazonIsabel Greenberg
I am thrilled about the upcoming 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
1A beautifully illustrated tapestry of folk tales and myths that celebrates the legacy of female storytellers in a richly imagined medieval world.$11.31 See it at AmazonN.K. Jemisin
If you haven't yet experienced N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth Trilogy, you're in for a treat. While all her fantasy works are remarkable, The Broken Earth Trilogy, particularly The Obelisk Gate, stands out for its compelling characters and innovative magic system. The Fifth Season might be a bit confusing at first with its playful narrative style, but the payoff is well worth it. Follow Essun on her quest to find her husband, who murdered their son and kidnapped their daughter, as she navigates a recurring cataclysmic event and hides her earth-manipulating powers. It's an unforgettable, Hugo Award-winning 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 in N.K. Jemisin's 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 is a delight for fans of adventure and dark fantasy. Her retellings of classic fairy tales and horror stories offer a unique blend of gothic horror and dark fantasy, balanced with humor and well-developed characters. Whether it's the chilling exploration of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" or the engaging Saint of Steel fantasy romance series that tackles themes of personal identity and loss, Kingfisher's work is both thrilling and thought-provoking. –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,” this novel by Hugo, Locus, and Nebula award-winning author T. Kingfisher is a must-read.$14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHan Kang
It's no surprise that Han Kang, the recent Nobel Prize winner for Literature, comes highly recommended. Her work, such as The Vegetarian, which was translated into English in 2015, is a mesmerizing exploration of a housewife's descent into self-starvation, reflecting the violence around her. Her subsequent works, like Greek Lessons and Human Acts, continue to delve into profound themes with a haunting aesthetic. Han Kang's genius is undeniable and her writing is a must-experience. –LB
Notable works: We Do Not Part, The Vegetarian, Human Acts, Greek Lessons
Han Kang### The Vegetarian
1A hauntingly allegorical tale of power and obsession, The Vegetarian is a compelling narrative of one woman's struggle against the violence within and around 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 novels, like The Deep Sky, a gripping murder mystery set on a tech-filled spaceship, and The Stardust Grail, an exhilarating adventure akin to Indiana Jones, showcase her ability to build captivating worlds and engaging plots swiftly. With a third novel on the horizon, Kitasei's career is one to watch. –MS
Notable works: The Deep Sky, Stardust Grail
Yume Kitasei### The Deep Sky
1Yume Kitasei's debut sci-fi thriller, The Deep Sky, is an enthralling tale of survival and suspicion aboard a spaceship bound for humanity's future home.$18.99 save 34%$12.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Carson Levine
Perfect for young readers diving into the world of fantasy, Gail Carson Levine's works are enchanting and inspiring. –MF
Notable works: Ella Enchanted
Gail Carson Levine### Ella Enchanted
1A beloved Newbery Honor-winning tale of a feisty heroine that continues to 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, captivating readers with her intricate world-building and detailed storytelling. Best known for A Court of Thorns and Roses, a series that follows a young woman's journey in a magical realm among the Fae, Maas's works also include the acclaimed Throne of Glass and Crescent City series. Her ability to craft strong characters and thrilling plots, intertwined with romance and fantasy, makes her a standout author for fans of epic tales with a touch of spice. –Jessie Wade
Notable works: A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, Crescent City
Sarah J. Mass### A Court of Thorns and Roses
0From #1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas comes a seductive, breathtaking novel that blends 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 tackles a variety of genres, from historical romance with a fantasy twist in The Beautiful Ones to dark vampire adventures in Certain Dark Things. Her works often explore dark historical fantasy set in North America, with a particular focus on Mexico, adding a refreshing perspective to her storytelling. Her ability to weave compelling narratives across different genres makes her a must-read author. –MS
Notable works: Mexican Gothic, Gods of Jade and Shadow, Silver Nitrate
Silvia Moreno-Garcia### Mexican Gothic
1A chilling twist on classic gothic horror set in glamorous 1950s Mexico, Mexican Gothic is a testament to Silvia Moreno-Garcia's storytelling prowess.$17.00 save 43%$9.73 at AmazonSee it at AmazonErin Morgenstern
Erin Morgenstern's novels, The Night Circus and The Starless Sea, are enchanting journeys into dreamlike worlds. The Night Circus, a historical fantasy romance about two magicians competing in a mysterious circus, is a lush, immersive read that can reignite a love for reading. The Starless Sea, a tale about stories and an underground library, is equally captivating. Morgenstern's writing is best enjoyed with a warm cup of tea. –MS
Notable works: The Night Circus, The Starless Sea
Erin Morgenstern### The Night Circus
1A spellbinding novel written in seductive prose, The Night Circus is a sensory delight and a heartwarming tale.$19.00 save 51%$9.33 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHelen Oyeyemi
Helen Oyeyemi's novels are a unique blend of fantasy and literary fiction, often inspired by Hans Christian Andersen folktales but with a modern twist. Her works, such as Gingerbread and Mr. Fox, are feverish adventures that defy conventional storytelling, offering readers a thrilling and disorienting experience that is both fun and profound. –LB
Notable works: Parasol Against the Axe, Gingerbread, Boy Snow Bird, Mr. Fox
Helen Oyeyemi### Mr. Fox
1A magical and inventive love story, Mr. Fox showcases Helen Oyeyemi's extraordinary talent and profound insights into human relationships.$18.00 save 25%$13.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonLeomi Sadler
Tummy Bugs is a vibrant collection of Leomi Sadler's work over a decade, filled with bright colors and dark humor, offering a deeply personal and exciting glimpse into her cartooning voice. –KP
Notable works: Tummy Bugs
Leomi Sadler### Tummy Bugs
1A retrospective and introduction to Leomi Sadler's energetic and personal cartooning style, Tummy Bugs is a must-see for fans of graphic storytelling.$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, starting with The Priory of the Orange Tree, offers a rich and immersive experience. With dragons, magic, and intricate plot twists, this series will captivate you from start to finish. The excitement continues with prequels like A Day of Fallen Night and the upcoming Among the Burning Flowers. –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 – The Priory of the Orange Tree is a thrilling high fantasy adventure.$10.92 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Simone
Gail Simone's contributions to comics and other media 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 groundbreaking and inspiring. –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 rises 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, continuing with Heart of the Sun Warrior. This duology offers a romantic and thrilling adventure, introducing readers to Chinese mythology while maintaining a fast-paced narrative. Follow Xingyin, the hidden daughter of the exiled moon goddess, as she embarks on a quest to free her mother. Tan's storytelling and character development make 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
1A captivating and romantic epic fantasy inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang’e, Daughter of the Moon Goddess is a must-read.$17.99 save 32%$12.18 at AmazonMorgan Vogel
Morgan Vogel's work is both visceral and intelligent, with striking visuals that delve into the unsettling experience of feeling lost online, in the world, or within oneself. –KP
Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle
Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy
1With a haunting and bold style, Nightcore Energy explores the alienation and immersion in technology, reflecting Morgan Vogel's personal experiences as a teenage web-artist.See it at Organ.FailJacqueline Wilson
Jacqueline Wilson's novels for young adults tackle challenging topics like grief, substance abuse, bullying, and abandonment with sensitivity and depth. Her stories provided solace during my own tough upbringing, and her awards, including a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire, reflect her significant contributions to literature. –Meg Koepp
Notable works: "Girls" series, Think Again, The Illustrated Mum
Jacqueline Wilson### The Illustrated Mum
2A poignant tale of a daughter's love for her beautiful but troubled mother, The Illustrated Mum is a touching and relatable read.$21.31 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonRebecca 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 skillfully balances brutal violence with deep character development and world-building, weaving romance into the plot organically. Yarros's complex storytelling and unexpected twists keep readers hooked, making the Empyrean series a must-read for fans of fantasy and romance. –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 dragons and war with this stunning three-book set from #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
