As March marks Women’s History Month in the US, we wanted to shine a spotlight on the talented women at IGN. Last year, we shared staff picks of games, movies, and TV. This year, we're focusing on another beloved pastime: reading. When we asked the women of IGN, "Who are your favorite women authors?" we received a diverse and intriguing list that spans various genres and styles. Let’s explore the authors and comic artists they admire as we celebrate both the women of IGN and their favorite women authors!
Sharon Creech
Her stories beautifully explore themes of love, grief, and the intricacies of human existence. –Marhyan Franzen
Notable works: Walk Two Moons, Chasing Redbird
Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons
1In her uniquely captivating style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech masterfully intertwines two narratives, one humorous and one poignant, to craft a heartwarming and deeply moving story 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 traditionally male-dominated world of comics. During her tenure at Marvel, she was instrumental in redefining Captain Marvel, transforming Carol Danvers into the iconic hero we see in the MCU, where DeConnick also served as a consultant. Beyond the mainstream, her work in indie comics, such as the mystical western "Pretty Deadly" and the dystopian feminist narrative "Bitch Planet," showcases her versatility. Her latest project, "FML," from Dark Horse Comics, delves into supernatural themes. If you haven't yet explored her work, you're missing out on a truly exceptional writer and 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 rightfully takes her place at the forefront. Her journey through a pivotal life decision propels her into the heart of an intergalactic conflict!$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter
Sarah Rose Etter's novels are refreshingly unconventional yet strikingly clear, resonating deeply with readers who appreciate the unusual. With only two novels to her name so far, both have stood out as highlights of their respective release years. "The Book of X," which delves into the surreal life of a woman born into a family of meat farmers, and "Ripe," which captures the haunting experience of working at a San Francisco startup, showcase her unique storytelling. Etter's ability to blend the surreal with the relatable is truly remarkable. I eagerly anticipate many more of her innovative works. –Leanne Butkovic
Notable works: Ripe, The Book of X
Sarah Rose Etter### Ripe: A Novel
1A surreal novel praised for its "dark, delicious edge" (Time), it follows a woman navigating Silicon Valley's cutthroat world, exploring how much she's willing to sacrifice for success. Roxane Gay hails Etter's work as "utterly unique and remarkable."$18.00 save 12%$15.81 at AmazonSee it at AmazonIsabel Greenberg
The excitement for the film adaptation of this feminist medieval tale is palpable, 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 work weaves a tapestry of folk tales and myths, celebrating the secret legacy of female storytellers in a medieval setting.$11.31 See it at AmazonN.K Jemisin
If you haven't yet been introduced to N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth Trilogy, you're in for a treat. While her other fantasy novels are equally compelling, it's the trilogy—particularly the second book, "The Obelisk Gate"—that stands out. Jemisin's inventive storytelling and intricate magic systems, combined with her playful narrative approach in "The Fifth Season," make her work unforgettable. The story follows Essun, a mother on a quest to find her husband, who killed their son and abducted their daughter, all while navigating a world beset by cataclysmic events and hiding her own earth-manipulating powers. It's a Hugo Award-winning journey you won't want to miss. –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, New York Times 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 astonishing, and her retellings of classic fairy tales and horror stories never cease to captivate. Her work often ventures into gothic horror and dark fantasy, yet her comedic timing and well-developed characters provide a perfect counterbalance to the darker themes. From the chilling exploration of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" to the poignant Saint of Steel fantasy romance series, which tackles identity and loss, Kingfisher's stories leave a lasting impact. –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 award-winning T. Kingfisher, blending horror with a fresh perspective.$14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHan Kang
Recommending Han Kang, the recent Nobel Prize winner in Literature, might seem obvious, but her work truly speaks for itself. I first encountered her through "The Vegetarian" when it was translated into English in 2015, and was immediately drawn into its haunting narrative about a housewife's drastic transformation. Released in South Korea eight years earlier, the novel's impact is timeless. Kang's subsequent works, including "Greek Lessons" and "Human Acts," further showcase her genius. She is a masterful storyteller and a true force in literature. –LB
Notable works: We Do Not Part, The Vegetarian, Human Acts, Greek Lessons
Han Kang### The Vegetarian
1Celebrated worldwide, "The Vegetarian" is a haunting allegory of power, obsession, and one woman's struggle to break free from external and internal violence.$18.00 save 17%$15.00 at AmazonSee it at AmazonYume Kitasei
Yume Kitasei's rapid rise in the sci-fi genre is nothing short of impressive. Her standalone novels quickly immerse readers in vivid worlds and gripping narratives. "The Deep Sky" is a compelling murder mystery set on a tech-laden spaceship, while "The Stardust Grail" offers an exhilarating adventure reminiscent of Indiana Jones, as the protagonist races to uncover an ancient alien artifact. With a third novel on the horizon, Kitasei's imaginative storytelling continues to shine. –MS
Notable works: The Deep Sky, Stardust Grail
Yume Kitasei### The Deep Sky
1Yume Kitasei's debut "The Deep Sky" is an enthralling sci-fi thriller about 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
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 will captivate both new and returning readers.$9.99 save 30%$6.99 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas is a powerhouse in the fantasy romance genre, crafting intricate worlds and compelling narratives that leave readers in awe. Best known for "A Court of Thorns and Roses," a series that explores a young woman's journey in a magical realm among the Fae, Maas's storytelling prowess is evident. Her debut series, "Throne of Glass," launched her career at a young age, and her latest series, "Crescent City," continues to enthrall fans. Maas's ability to weave romance with epic fantasy creates unforgettable stories. –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 mesmerizing blend of romance, adventure, and faerie lore that promises an unforgettable journey.$19.00 save 42%$10.95 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSilvia Moreno-Garcia
Silvia Moreno-Garcia fearlessly tackles various genres, from historical romance with a fantasy twist in "The Beautiful Ones" to the dark vampire tale "Certain Dark Things" set in Mexico City. Her works often explore dark historical fantasy across North America, particularly Mexico, offering fresh perspectives. Her storytelling is so compelling that her books are a must-have on my limited bookshelf. –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 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 enchanting escapes into dreamlike worlds. I'm an avid collector of her hardcover editions, drawn in by the lush, historical fantasy romance of "The Night Circus," which follows two young magicians destined for a magical duel. Her second novel, "The Starless Sea," is an intricate tale about the power of stories, taking readers on a journey to an underground realm that houses all narratives. Both books are perfect for those seeking a cozy, immersive reading experience. –MS
Notable works: The Night Circus, The Starless Sea
Erin Morgenstern### The Night Circus
1Written in lush, seductive prose, this novel is a feast for the senses and the heart, transporting readers to a magical world.$19.00 save 51%$9.33 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHelen Oyeyemi
The announcement of a new Helen Oyeyemi book fills me with excitement. Her unique voice defies easy categorization, much like chasing a playful ghost. Her novels, often inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's tales but transformed into fever dream adventures, challenge the norms of literary fiction. As Alexandra Kleeman noted to The Nation, Oyeyemi's work is like navigating a moving vehicle while holding a full cup of hot tea—discombobulating 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 this unconventional love story, blending magic and wit with profound insights on human connection.$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 reflects on Leomi Sadler's energetic and deeply personal cartooning voice.$25.42 See it at AmazonSamantha Shannon
For fans still reeling from the end of "Game of Thrones" and eagerly awaiting George R.R. Martin's next installment, Samantha Shannon's "The Roots of Chaos" series offers a perfect high fantasy escape. Starting with "The Priory of the Orange Tree," this 845-page epic is filled with rich characters, dragons, magic, and suspense. The series continues with "A Day of Fallen Night" and the upcoming "Among the Burning Flowers," making it an ideal time to dive into this captivating 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)
1In a divided world, a queendom without an heir faces an ancient enemy's awakening.$10.92 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Simone
Gail Simone's extensive career in comics and other media is marked by her ability to capture the quieter, yet powerful, moments in superheroes' lives. As the first female solo writer for "Uncanny X-Men" and a GLAAD award winner, her contributions to the genre are immense. Her work is truly remarkable and deserves your attention. –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," and its sequel, "Heart of the Sun Warrior," offer a stunning reimagining of the Chinese legend of the moon goddess. These novels blend romance with epic adventure, introducing readers to Chinese mythology while maintaining a fast-paced narrative. The story follows Xingyin, the hidden daughter of the exiled moon goddess, on her quest to free her mother, making these books 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
1Inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang’e, this debut epic fantasy follows a young woman’s quest to free her mother, weaving romance and adventure.$17.99 save 32%$12.18 at AmazonMorgan Vogel
Morgan Vogel's work is both visceral and intelligent, featuring unsettling yet beautiful illustrations. It captures the essence of feeling lost, whether online, in the world, or within oneself. –KP
Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle
Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy
1With a haunting pen, "Nightcore Energy" delves into the world of a young man seeking escape through technology, reflecting Morgan’s own journey as a teenage web-artist.See it at Organ.FailJacqueline Wilson
Jacqueline Wilson's novels for young adults tackle challenging subjects such as grief, substance abuse, bullying, and abandonment. Growing up with her books, I found solace in her relatable characters during my own difficult times. Her numerous awards, including the prestigious Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire, recognize her significant contribution to literature. –Meg Koepp
Notable works: "Girls" series, Think Again, The Illustrated Mum
Jacqueline Wilson### The Illustrated Mum
2Marigold's daughter sees her as the most beautiful mum in the world, yet wishes she wouldn't spend so much and stay out all night, finding it frightening.$21.31 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonRebecca Yarros
Rebecca Yarros's "Empyrean" series is a compelling adult fantasy romance centered around a young woman attending a war college for dragon riders. The series balances brutal violence with deep storytelling, character development, and world-building. Yarros's ability to create relatable characters facing serious challenges, coupled with themes of friendship and support, makes the series resonate. The romance enhances the plot seamlessly, while the unexpected twists keep readers engaged. With the third book released on January 21, 2025, and two more to follow, the series promises to be an emotional rollercoaster. –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 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
