Contemporary fiction is one of the most popular book genres across the world. With its diverse range of styles and voices, the authors of these stories have captured the imagination of readers in every state.
In this article, Impactful.news researches each state’s favorite contemporary fiction authors and identifies the unique literary talents that make them the best writers in the country. This article will celebrate the vibrant landscape of contemporary fiction writing in America, identifying best-selling authors to emerging voices.
Scraping data from Google Trends and YouGov.com, our team has compiled the top-searched authors in each state and their respective works. YouGov is a national polling website that surveys people from all across the US, calculating overall fame and popularity scores to reflect the opinions of Americans everywhere.
Most Popular in 11 States: Stan Lee
- Biggest Work: How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 78%
- Popularity: 56%
In Arizona, California, Georgia, Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee, and Texas, Stan Lee is the most-searched writer.
Stan Lee was a legendary comic book writer, editor, and publisher, best known for co-creating iconic superheroes like Spider-Man, Iron Man, and the X-Men. His creative vision and larger-than-life characters revolutionized the comic book industry and inspired generations of fans around the world. Lee's charismatic personality and cameos in Marvel films made him a beloved figure and a cherished symbol of imagination and heroism.
Most Popular in 4 States: Daniel Handler (Lemony Snicket)
- Biggest Work: The Bad Beginning (A Series of Unfortunate Events #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 56%
- Popularity: 31%
Colorado, Delaware, Oklahoma, and Washington are home to some of the biggest Lemony Snicket fans.
Daniel Handler, known by his pen name of Lemony Snicket, has a unique, dark humor that he inscribes into his children's books. His hit series "A Series of Unfortunate Events" has captivated audiences of all ages. Snicket's clever wordplay and distinctive narrative voice have made his work iconic and memorable, and his mysterious author persona contributes to the enigmatic cloud that surrounds his stories. All in all, Lemony Snicket stands as an enduring figure in the world of children's literature.
Most Popular in 3 States: Danielle Steel
- Biggest Work: Safe Harbour
- Top Search Interest: 96%
- Fame: 80%
- Popularity: 47%
Danielle Steel is the biggest author in Connecticut, Illinois, and Pennsylvania.
Danielle Steel is a prolific American author that has written numerous bestselling romance novels. Her engaging storytelling voice and compelling characters have captivated readers worldwide, telling emotionally charged narratives that garner her wild success. Having sold over 800 million copies of her books Danielle Steel is one of the biggest names in the world of literary romance.
Most Popular in 3 States: James Patterson
- Biggest Work: Along Came a Spider
- Top Search Interest: 98%
- Fame: 76%
- Popularity: 51%
Michigan, Nebraska, and Wisconsin natives were reading James Patterson novels in 2022.
James Patterson is a prolific American author known for his gripping and fast-paced literary thrillers. With his signature short chapters and suspenseful storytelling, Patterson has mastered the art of keeping readers on the edge of their seats. As one of the best-selling authors of all time his works span various series and genres, making him a household name and a favorite among fans of thrilling page-turners.
Most Popular in 2 States: Michael Connelly
- Biggest Work: The Lincoln Lawyer
- Top Search Interest: 83%
- Fame: 48%
- Popularity: 29%
Florida and North Dakota are the top two states for writer Michael Connelly.
Michael Connelly is a highly acclaimed American author known for his riveting crime novels, particularly his Harry Bosch series. With his intricate plots, masterful character development and gritty depiction of Los Angeles, Connelly has earned a devoted following of readers and fans across the nation. His expertise as a former journalist shines through in his meticulous research and authentic portrayal of police procedures, making his books a must-read for fans of the crime genre.
Most Popular in 2 States: Mary Higgins Clark
- Biggest Work: Where Are the Children
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 68%
- Popularity: 42%
Kansas and South Dakota are home to some of the biggest Mary Higgins Clark fans.
Mary Higgins Clark was a beloved American author known as the "Queen of Suspense." Her skillful blend of mystery, suspense and relatable characters made her novels immensely popular. With over 50 bestselling books to her name, Clark's legacy as a master storyteller continues to captivate readers worldwide.
Most Popular in 2 States: Harlan Coben
- Biggest Work: Tell No One
- Top Search Interest: 87%
- Fame: 44%
- Popularity: 28%
Harlan Coben novels are hits in both Massachusetts and New Jersey.
Harlan Coben is a critically acclaimed American author recognized for his gripping and twist-filled suspense novels. His skill at crafting intricate plots and keeping readers guessing until the very end has made him a prominent figure in the thriller genre. With numerous bestsellers and adaptations of his works for television, Coben's thrilling storytelling has garnered a devoted global fan base.
Most Popular in 2 States: Nicholas Sparks
North Carolina and South Carolina are the setting for Nicholas Sparks' romance novels, so it makes sense that he's the top-searched author in both states.
Nicholas Sparks is a beloved American author renowned for his heartfelt and emotional romance novels. His poignant storytelling and ability to create relatable characters have touched the hearts of millions of readers around the world. With his novels often adapted into successful movies, Sparks has solidified his place as a master of capturing the power of love and the complexities of human relationships.
Most Popular in 2 States: R. L. Stine
- Biggest Work: Halloween Party (Fear Street, #8)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 67%
- Popularity: 44%
The quirky novels of R.L. Stine are hits in Ohio and West Virginia.
R.L. Stine, born Robert Lawrence Stine, is an acclaimed American author known for his popular young adult horror fiction series "Goosebumps." With his knack for crafting suspenseful and chilling tales, Stine has captivated generations of readers and become a literary icon in the horror genre. His imaginative storytelling and relatable characters continue to ignite the imaginations of young readers worldwide.
Most Popular in Alabama: Fannie Flagg
- Biggest Work: Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 52%
- Popularity: 29%
Fannie Flagg is a celebrated American author and actress, known for her heartwarming and humorous novels. Her works often explore themes of Southern culture, family dynamics and women's empowerment. With her delightful storytelling style and lovable characters Flagg has earned a special place in the hearts of readers who appreciate her charming and uplifting stories.
Most Popular in Alaska: Janet Evanovich
- Biggest Work: One for the Money (Stephanie Plum #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 49%
- Popularity: 29%
Janet Evanovich is a bestselling American author recognized for her wildly popular Stephanie Plum series, a collection of comedic mystery novels. Her books are characterized by their fast-paced plots, witty dialogue, and lovable characters, making them a favorite among readers seeking lighthearted entertainment. Evanovich's unique blend of humor and suspense has secured her a dedicated fan base and numerous bestseller placements.
Most Popular in Arkansas: Sandra Brown
- Biggest Work: Mean Streak
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 51%
- Popularity: 32%
Sandra Brown is a highly accomplished American author celebrated for her captivating romantic suspense novels. Known for her intricate plots, unexpected twists, and steamy romances, Brown has consistently delivered thrilling and emotionally charged stories. With over 80 New York Times bestsellers to her name she has established herself as a master of the genre, captivating readers with her blend of passion and suspense.
Most Popular in the District of Columbia: Toni Morrison
- Biggest Work: Beloved
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 62%
- Popularity: 40%
Toni Morrison was a trailblazing American author and Nobel laureate renowned for her powerful and thought-provoking novels that explored the African American experience. Her works "Beloved" and "The Bluest Eye" challenged societal norms and delved into themes of identity, race and history with extraordinary literary prowess.
Morrison's storytelling brilliance and lyrical prose left an indelible impact on the world of literature, earning her critical acclaim and a lasting legacy.
Most Popular in Hawaii: Lee Child
- Biggest Work: Killing Floor (Jack Reacher #1)
- Top Search Interest: 93%
- Fame: 47%
- Popularity: 28%
Lee Child is a highly regarded British author famous for his captivating Jack Reacher thriller series. His novels, characterized by their relentless action, intricate plots and enigmatic protagonist, have garnered a devoted following worldwide. With his masterful storytelling and knack for suspense, Child has solidified his place among the top authors in the thriller genre.
Most Popular in Idaho: Suzanne Collins
- Biggest work: The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 58%
- Popularity: 29%
Suzanne Collins is an acclaimed American author known for her groundbreaking young adult dystopian trilogy "The Hunger Games." Her books, set in a post-apocalyptic world, explore themes of survival, social inequality and the power of resistance. Collins' compelling storytelling and strong resilient characters have captivated readers of all ages, making her a prominent figure in contemporary literature.
Most Popular in Iowa: Debbie Macomber
- Biggest Work: The Shop on Blossom Street (Blossom Street #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 49%
- Popularity: 30%
Debbie Macomber is a beloved American author celebrated for her heartwarming and uplifting romance novels. Her stories, often set in small towns, focus on themes of love, family, and second chances. With her engaging storytelling and relatable characters, Macomber has garnered a loyal fan base and is widely recognized as a master of the feel-good genre.
Most Popular in Kentucky: Clive Barker
- Biggest Work: The Hellbound Heart
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 62%
- Popularity: 37%
Clive Barker is a renowned British author and filmmaker known for his dark and imaginative works of horror and fantasy. His novels "The Hellbound Heart" and "Weaveworld," among others, are celebrated for their richly detailed worlds and visceral storytelling style. Displaying a unique blend of horror, imagination and surrealism Barker has left an indelible mark on the genre of horror and continues to captivate readers with his unsettling and thought-provoking narratives.
Most Popular in Louisiana: Anne Rice
- Biggest Work: Interview with the Vampire (The Vampire Chronicles #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 71%
- Popularity: 45%
Anne Rice is an influential American author recognized for her gothic and supernatural novels, notably the "Vampire Chronicles" series featuring the iconic character Lestat. Her lush prose and immersive storytelling have enthralled readers with tales of vampires, witches and other supernatural creatures. Rice's ability to blend elements of horror, romance, and historical fiction has made her a prominent figure in the realm of dark fantasy literature.
Most Popular in Maine: Stephen King
- Biggest Work: The Shining (The Shining #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 96%
- Popularity: 71%
Stephen King is a legendary American author renowned for his mastery of horror and suspense. With an extensive bibliography that includes classics like "The Shining," "It," and "Carrie" King has garnered a devoted global following. His ability to create complex characters, build intense atmosphere and explore the depths of human fear has solidified his place as one of the most influential and prolific writers of the age.
Most Popular in Minnesota: John Sandford
- Biggest Work: Rules of Prey (Lucas Davenport #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 45%
- Popularity: 28%
John Sandford is a highly acclaimed American author best known for his gripping crime thriller novels featuring the popular character, Lucas Davenport. With his skillful blend of suspense, intricate plots, and realistic portrayals of law enforcement, Sandford has captivated readers for decades. His ability to craft compelling narratives filled with memorable characters has earned him a dedicated fan base and numerous bestsellers.
Most Popular in Mississippi: John Grisham
- Biggest Work: A Time to Kill (Jake Brigance #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 82%
- Popularity: 57%
John Grisham is a bestselling American author renowned for his legal thriller novels. Gripping storytelling and meticulous attention to legal detail have made Grisham a household name in the genre. His ability to combine suspenseful plots, courtroom drama and moral complexities has made him a favorite among readers seeking thrilling and thought-provoking narratives.
Most Popular in Montana: Clive Cussler
- Biggest Work: Sahara (Dark Pitt #11)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 48%
- Popularity: 29%
Clive Cussler was an acclaimed American author known for his action-packed adventure novels featuring the daring exploits of his iconic protagonist Dirk Pitt. With his signature blend of history, suspense and maritime intrigue, Cussler created captivating stories that kept readers hooked until the very end. His vast body of work and ability to transport readers to thrilling and exotic locations made him a beloved figure in the world of adventure fiction.
Most Popular in New Hampshire: Dan Brown
- Biggest Work: Angels & Demons (Robert Langdon #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 54%
- Popularity: 34%
Dan Brown is an internationally bestselling American author widely celebrated for his gripping and meticulously-researched thrillers. His novels "The Da Vinci Code" and "Angels & Demons" are internationally renowned for their intricate puzzles, symbology and fast-paced narratives. Brown's ability to blend history with art and conspiracy has categorized him a master of the modern thriller genre and one of the most successful writers in the country.
Most Popular in Oregon: Neil Gaiman
- Biggest Work: American Gods (American Gods #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 49%
- Popularity: 30%
Neil Gaiman is a highly acclaimed British author known for his extraordinary works of fantasy and dark mythology. With his vivid imagination and lyrical prose, Gaiman has created enchanting worlds and unforgettable characters in novels like "American Gods" and "Stardust." His ability to seamlessly blend the ordinary with the fantastical has earned him a devoted following and cemented his status as a literary icon.
Most Popular in Rhode Island: Robin Cook
- Biggest Work: Outbreak (Dr. Marissa Blumenthal #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 51%
- Popularity: 29%
Robin Cook is an influential American author recognized for his gripping medical thrillers that explore ethical dilemmas and the dark side of the medical field. With his background as a physician, Cook brings a unique blend of medical expertise and suspenseful storytelling to his novels. His works, such as "Coma" and "Outbreak," have not only entertained readers but also raised awareness about medical issues and sparked discussions about the intersection of science and ethics.
Most Popular in Vermont: Nora Roberts
- Biggest Work: Vision in White (Bride Quartet #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 64%
- Popularity: 38%
Nora Roberts is a highly acclaimed American author celebrated for her prolific output of romance and suspense novels. With her compelling storytelling and rich character development, Roberts has captivated readers for decades. Her ability to craft engaging narratives filled with emotional depth and memorable relationships has made her one of the most beloved and bestselling authors in the romance genre.
Most Popular in Virginia: Patricia Cornwell
- Biggest Work: Postmortem (Kay Scarpetta #1)
- Top Search Interest: 81%
- Fame: 55%
- Popularity: 32%
Patricia Cornwell is a renowned American author known for her gripping crime novels, particularly the popular "Kay Scarpetta" series. With her background in forensic science, Cornwell brings authenticity and detail to her stories, immersing readers in the world of forensic pathology and criminal investigations. Her meticulous research, intricate plots, and complex characters have solidified her status as a master of the crime genre.
Most Popular in Wyoming: Dean Koontz
- Biggest Work: Odd Thomas (Odd Thomas #1)
- Top Search Interest: 100%
- Fame: 71%
- Popularity: 45%
Dean Koontz is a highly acclaimed American author famous for his chilling suspense novels. With his skillful blend of horror, thriller and science fiction elements, Koontz has created a vast body of work to keep readers on the edge of their seats till the last page. His imaginative storytelling, well-crafted suspense and memorable characters have earned him a dedicated fan following and established him as a leading figure in the realm of suspense fiction.
Honorable Mentions
In 2022, not all authors scored for top search interest on Google Trends. However, these names are widely known across the world and therefore merit a spot on our list of top contemporary writers in the United States.
Aaron Sorkin
- Biggest Work: A Few Good Men
- Top Search Interest: District of Columbia (100%)
- Fame: 54%
- Popularity: 29%
Alice Walker
- Biggest Work: The Color Purple
- Top Search Interest: District of Columbia (100%)
- Fame: 50%
- Popularity: 33%
Amanda Gorman
- Biggest Work: The Hill We Climb: An Inaugural Poem for the Country
- Top Search Interest: District of Columbia (100%)
- Fame: 46%
- Popularity: 31%
Amy Tan
- Biggest Work: The Joy Luck Club
- Top Search Interest: Vermont (100%)
- Fame: 52%
- Popularity: 29%
David Sedaris
- Biggest Work: Me Talk Pretty One Day
- Top Search Interest: Alaska (100%)
- Fame: 47%
- Popularity: 27%
Garry Trudeau
- Biggest Work: Doonesbury: A Musical Comedy
- Top Search Interest: Delaware (100%)
- Fame: 57%
- Popularity: 30%
George R.R. Martin
- Biggest Work: A Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire #1)
- Top Search Interest: New Mexico (100%)
- Fame: 58%
- Popularity: 35%
J.K. Rowling
- Biggest Work: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
- Top Search Interest: Utah (100%)
- Fame: 90%
- Popularity: 57%
John Irving
- Biggest Work: A Prayer for Owen Meany
- Top Search Interest: Vermont (100%)
- Fame: 59%
- Popularity: 36%
Margaret Atwood
- Biggest Work: The Handmaid's Tale (The Handmaid's Tale #1)
- Top Search Interest: Vermont (100%)
- Fame: 58%
- Popularity: 38%
Maurice Sendak
- Biggest Work: Where the Wild Things Are
- Top Search Interest: Wyoming (100%)
- Fame: 45%
- Popularity: 29%
Stephenie Meyer
- Biggest Work: Twilight (The Twilight Saga #1)
- Top Search Interest: Vermont (100%)
- Fame: 53%
- Popularity: 31%
| State | Most Popular Author | Search Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Fannie Flagg | 100% |
| Alaska | Janet Evanovich | 100% |
| Arizona | Stan Lee | 83% |
| Arkansas | Sandra Brown | 100% |
| California | Stan Lee | 81% |
| Colorado | Daniel Handler | 81% |
| Connecticut | Danielle Steel | 96% |
| Delaware | Daniel Handler | 100% |
| District of Columbia | Toni Morrison | 100% |
| Florida | Michael Connelly | 71% |
| Georgia | Stan Lee | 74% |
| Hawaii | Lee Child | 93% |
| Idaho | Suzanne Collins | 100% |
| Illinois | Danielle Steel | 71% |
| Indiana | Stan Lee | 84% |
| Iowa | Debbie Macomber | 100% |
| Kansas | Mary Higgins Clark | 100% |
| Kentucky | Clive Barker | 100% |
| Louisiana | Anne Rice | 100% |
| Maine | Stephen King | 100% |
| Maryland | Stan Lee | 71% |
| Massachusetts | Harlan Coben | 82% |
| Michigan | James Patterson | 80% |
| Minnesota | John Sandford | 100% |
| Mississippi | John Grisham | 100% |
| Missouri | Stan Lee | 85% |
| Montana | Clive Cussler | 100% |
| Nebraska | James Patterson | 97% |
| Nevada | Stan Lee | 85% |
| New Hampshire | Dan Brown | 100% |
| New Jersey | Harlan Coben | 87% |
| New Mexico | Stan Lee | 100 |
| New York | Stan Lee | 66% |
| North Carolina | Nicholas Sparks | 100% |
| North Dakota | Michael Connelly | 83% |
| Ohio | R. L. Stine | 92% |
| Oklahoma | Daniel Handler | 91% |
| Oregon | Neil Gaiman | 100% |
| Pennsylvania | Danielle Steel | 78% |
| Rhode Island | Robin Cook | 100% |
| South Carolina | Nicholas Sparks | 85% |
| South Dakota | Mary Higgins Clark | 91% |
| Tennessee | Stan Lee | 78% |
| Texas | Stan Lee | 70% |
| Utah | J. K. Rowling | 100% |
| Vermont | Nora Roberts | 100% |
| Virginia | Patricia Cornwell | 81% |
| Washington | Daniel Handler | 94% |
| West Virginia | R. L. Stine | 100% |
| Wisconsin | James Patterson | 98% |
| Wyoming | Dean Koontz | 100% |
