Auto-Buy vs. Auto-Read Authors

If you’re like me, you don’t have the money to buy every book you want to read. I wish I did, but luckily, I have access to an amazing public library system. I love my local library, and I’m so grateful to live in a city that supports books and authors. While they don't carry most indie authors, I can acquire any trad pub book I want. However, sometimes I absolutely must buy the book, no matter what.

I thought I’d take a break from discussing writing techniques to share with you my auto-buy and auto-read authors, and their books. 

Auto-read means these are the authors that I will pick up at the library and read their most recent books every time. Auto-buy, well, these are authors who I will go broke for because I trust that I will love their book. And yes, all the authors on this list happen to be women!

In no particular order…

1. N. K. Jemisin (auto-read): The Broken Earth Trilogy. Sometimes, the language an author uses just pulls you in, and that’s how it was for me in this series. The story and world-building are so original, the characters are fascinating and flawed, the magic system is powerful and mysterious, and it’s so incredibly raw and gritty that I couldn’t put these books down. I also enjoyed her Inheritance Trilogy.

2. Sabaa Tahir (auto-buy): An Ember in the Ashes Series & Heir. I am obsessed with these books. I think Sabaa is an incredibly gifted author, and her stories are heart-wrenching and unique, and filled with unforgettable characters. I trust Sabaa so much that I will buy every fantasy book she writes without even reading the blurb or seeing a review.

3. Stephanie Garber (auto-buy): Once Upon a Broken Heart & Caraval. Stephanie’s whimsical way with words is unmatched, and I want to live in the worlds she creates. I have only been disappointed in 1 book she’s written so far, but even then, I still enjoyed reading it. I will give this woman all my money for life.

4. Rebecca Yarros (auto-buy): Empyrean Series. I’m as hooked on this series as the rest of the world, however, I will say that these are the only books of Rebecca’s that I’m interested in. We’ll see what fantasy she chooses to write after this series is complete…

5. Rachel Gillig (auto-buy): The Shepherd King Duology. I devoured these two books and their gothic vibes and unique magic system. I also have a weakness for parasite characters who talk in people’s brains. I’m sold enough on Rachel to auto-buy her next book.

6. Holly Black (auto-read): The Folk of the Air Series. I love Holly. She’s so creative, and Jude is one of my all-time favorite FMCs, however I think her books are hit-or-miss for me sometimes. I think FotA is perfection, and I enjoyed the Novels of Elfame duology, but her earlier stuff I’m not super into. BUT I will read everything she publishes because she’s Queen of the Fae.

   
   

7. M. L. Wang (auto-buy): Blood Over Bright Haven & Sword of Kaigen. I genuinely don’t know how to describe how incredible M. L. is. Both of her books blew me away. This is another author who I trust to write engaging, devastating stories set in unique worlds with intricate magic. I’m so happy I discovered her last year!

8. Sarah J. Maas (auto-buy/auto-read): A Court of Thorns and Roses Series. Sigh. Okay, don’t come for me, but I really only enjoy the ACOTAR series. I own all her books, but I have decided that I will only auto-buy ACOTAR books. I love the characters and the world, and I’m very anxious to read the next book. I will auto-read her other ones.

9. Laini Taylor (auto-read): Daughter of Smoke and Bone Series. Laini was an influential author for me in my early writing years. I love this trilogy, and it’s left a lasting impact on me. Her world-building and creativity are off the charts, and I love her characters. I will definitely always read her works.

10. Rebecca Ross (auto-read): Elements of Cadence Duology & Letters of Enchantment Duology. EoC is one of my fave series ever. Rebecca knows how to write an epic, compelling love story! And her use of language and description is lovely. Definitely someone I will always read.

11. V. E. Schwab (auto-read): The Invisible Life of Addie LaRoue & Shades of Magic Series. Victoria is one of the most original, daring authors out there, and I really enjoy all of their books. My favorite was Addie, which I own.

12. Tahereh Mafi (auto-read): Shatter Me Series & This Woven Kingdom Series. Tahereh is another author who writes beautifully and vividly, and I love her style. I’m here for the vibes of her books and the epic love stories.