popular writer; popular author
Refers to a writer or author who is currently well-liked and widely read. Often used in literary or publishing contexts.
He is currently the most popular writer in Japan.
The new work by the popular author will be released next month.
人気 means 'popularity' in general, while 人気作家 specifically refers to a popular writer.
作家 means 'writer' or 'author' without the implication of popularity.
Compound of 人気 (にんき, 'popularity') and 作家 (さっか, 'writer').