The 9 Top Urban Fantasy Books for Beginners
Book RaiderVenturing into the world of Urban Fantasy can be a bit like stepping off the plane in a bustling, unfamiliar city. The skyline is intriguing, the energy pulses in the air, but you're not exactly sure where to go first. Well, worry not, reader! Let me be your guide as we navigate our way through the magical alleyways and otherworldly taverns of urban fantasy.
Now, seasoned lovers of the genre might be thinking, "Pfft, urban fantasy isn't hard to get into." To which, I respectfully disagree. It's a vast genre, with various sub-genres ranging from paranormal romance to supernatural crime stories, and it can be a bit intimidating for complete newcomers. But that's where this blog post comes in. Presenting to you, in no particular order, accessible yet enthralling urban fantasy masterpieces, that are just perfect for dipping your toes in this fantastical world. Buckle up, it's going to be a wild ride.
Moon Called
by Patricia Briggs
Why Moon Called is on this list: Dip your toe into the vast ocean of urban fantasy with 'Moon Called' by master storyteller Patricia Briggs. This book, while magical, mysterious, and full of things that go bump in the night, is easy to grasp for those new to the genre, making it perfect for newcomers.
The book stars Mercy Thompson, a shape-changing mechanic who ends up smack in the middle of a monstrous power struggle. If that's not intriguing enough, throw in some werewolves, vampires, and an ancient magical artifact, and you've got a fantastical tale perfect for those just starting their urban fantasy journey.
What readers like: Readers love the book's ability to balance story complexity with accessibility, it's not going to confuse the daylight out of you. They also commend Briggs' skill in blending the supernatural with realism, making you believe that maybe, just maybe, your annoying next door neighbour could be a shape-shifter. Not to mention, the subtle humor and complex characters are just the cherry on top.
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Magic Bites
by Ilona Andrews
Why Magic Bites is on this list: Everyone has to start somewhere, and 'Magic Bites' by Ilona Andrews is an ideal steppingstone into the vast world of urban fantasy. It's perfect for beginners who are dipping their toes into this genre, thanks to its ghoulish setting, quirky characters and magic-infused plot that feels pretty grounded for a fantastical world.
'Magic Bites' is the first book in the 'Kate Daniels' series. It takes you into an alternate version of Atlanta, where magic and technology clash in unpredictable waves. The story follows Kate Daniels, a lovable yet slightly grumpy mercenary with a shadowy past, who specializes in magical 'clean-up.' After the murder of her guard, she finds herself in a world of shape-shifters, vampires, and smarmy gods. If that's not stimulating enough, there's a tantalizing whiff of romance and a taste of hilariously sarcastic humor.
What readers like: Readers really dig the book’s sassy main character, Kate Daniels, who balances being a bad-ass sword-wielding heroine with a healthy dose of down-to-earth humor. Fans also appreciate the distinct world-building in the often chaotic but vibrantly painted magical Atlanta and enjoy the carefully paced introduction to the world of urban fantasy. The book’s blend of mystery and magic sprinkled with snarkiness pulls them out of their mundane routine and right into the heart of the action, stirring a craving for more.
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Hounded
by Kevin Hearne
Why Hounded is on this list: Hounded is your golden ticket into the world of urban fantasy. As an entry point, it is easy to understand, action-packed and comes sprinkled with a dash of humor. Basically, it’s like a delicious appetizer before a hearty meal. If urban fantasy was a club, consider this your friendly bouncer.
Atticus O'Sullivan, the last of the Druids, peacefully in Arizona, running an occult bookshop and shape-shifting in his spare time until the ancient Celtic god of love decides that Atticus is the only obstacle to his undesirable plans. Adventure, mythical creatures, and a snarky Irish Wolfhound named Oberon, what's not to love?
What readers like: Readers enjoy the finely detailed world-building, dynamic characters and said snarky Irish Wolfhound. They also appreciate the unique mix of mythologies. Who knew that Celtic mythology and a modern day setting could brew such an intoxicating mix? If you’re craving a story that will make you belly-laugh, gasp in surprise, and google which mythical creature you would be, this book might just be up your alley.
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Fated
by Benedict Jacka
Why Fated is on this list: Fated leads the reader down the streets of London, but with a magical twist that would make even the city's buskers gasp. It's the perfect teleportation from your comfy couch to a world where magic is real. Plus, it gently introduces you to the tropes of the Urban Fantasy genre without making you feel like you're studying for an exam. When it comes to Urban Fantasy 101, Fated is definitely the main course.
Fated is the tale of Alex Verus, a magic shop owner in London who just happens to be a mage himself. Verus has a knack for seeing the future and this propels him into a world of trouble when he's asked to crack open an ancient relic. Think Indiana Jones meets Harry Potter, with an extra sprinkle of Sherlock Holmes detective work. It ticks all the right boxes for an Urban Fantasy - it's got magic, it's got suspense, it's got a dash of noir, and it's all set in the heart of a bustling city.
What readers like: Readers love Fated for its relatable and underdog character, Alex Verus. They appreciate the complex storytelling that keeps them guessing and the clever blend of our world with the magical. Jacka doesn't just ladle on the magic, but infuses the whole book - and world - with it, making you believe you just might find a mermaid in the River Thames or a goblin in the Underground. And let's not forget the rich supporting characters: from Luna the cursed apprentice to Arachne the giant magical spider - they make the story even more enticing.
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Storm Front
by Jim Butcher
Why Storm Front is on this list: Storm Front is an urban fantasy book that introduces you to an entirely new world that's chillingly close to our own, making it a fantastic entry point for beginners. All while the witty and quirky writing style keeps you entertained every step of the way.
This is the first book in the Dresden series, introducing us to Harry Dresden, a wizard detective for hire in modern-day Chicago. Harry is a distinctive character who manages to balance the complex nature of magic with his everyday tasks like paying his rent. Imagine the mind of Sherlock Holmes coupled with Gandalf's magical prowess, now put that personality into a trench coat wearing detective and you have Harry Dresden. A gripping plot involving a mysterious murder becomes Harry’s responsibility to solve, plunging the reader into a world filled with magic, vampires, werewolves, and the supernatural lurking in the shadows of the Windy City.
What readers like: Readers enjoy the perfect mix of detective crime-solving action and fascinating, well-explained magic. They love Harry Dresden's personality–he's a protagonist who’s relatable, down-to-earth, and infuses the story with light humor. If you enjoy your urban fantasy with a side of sassy wit, then Storm Front may just be your perfect cram-it-down-in-one-sitting kind of book.
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Skinwalker
by Faith Hunter
Why Skinwalker is on this list: Skinwalker is an amazing introductory book for anyone looking to dip their toes into the urban fantasy pool without having to deal with too much complexity.
Enter the life of Jane Yellowrock, a skinwalker of Cherokee descent who can shape-shift into any creature she desires and hunts vampires for a living. The story is set in modern-day New Orleans, giving it that urban touch, while the mix of Native American mythology, vampires and witches delivers an exciting fantasy element.
What readers like: Readers love the badass female protagonist, Jane, who kicks vampire butt while dealing with life in a big city. The book also gets major points for its vivid, atmospheric descriptions of New Orleans and its unique blend of fantasy elements – from skinwalkers, to vampires, to witches. Throw in some humor and a dash of romance, and you've got a page-turner that's hard to put down.
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Some Girls Bite
by Chloe Neill
Why Some Girls Bite is on this list: If you're looking for a plunge into urban fantasy, 'Some Girls Bite' might just be your perfect diving board. It's urban fantasy on training wheels - but that doesn't mean it's boring. Far from it.
The book follows the life of our protagonist Merit, a regular graduate student turned sassy, sword-wielding vampire after a nearly fatal attack. Now adjusting to her nocturnal lifestyle, she finds herself amidst vampire politics, mystery, romance and lots of bites in the bustling city of Chicago. Be ready for a delicious blend of the supernatural, humor, and cool vampire hangouts which would even leave Dracula envious.
What readers like: Readers rave about the relatable heroine, a hilarious sidekick and a smattering of mysterious vampire hotties – not to mention Neill's casual, witty writing style. So, if you're a newbie to the genre and love a good mix of fantasy, sass, and delicious vampire drama, 'Some Girls Bite' should be right up your alley.
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Succubus Blues
by Richelle Mead
Why Succubus Blues is on this list: Succubus Blues serves as a perfect entry point for those looking to dip their toes into urban fantasy. It merrily blends elements of our everyday world with otherworldly beings like you've never seen before.
Step into the glamorous-heeled shoes of Georgina Kincaid, a loveable succubus with an uncanny ability to make men's desires her own. And before you start imagining a dreary lifestyle, Georgina is not your regular succubus. She works at a bookstore during the day. Yep, you heard it right. A succubus who works at a bookstore. Only, Georgina's life takes a big flip when a strange entity starts taking out her fellow underworld dwellers. To make matters worse, she's forced to choose between a tantalising mortal love and an otherworldly irresistible immortal. Intrigued yet?
What readers like: Readers adore the sassy, charming protagonist, Georgina, and the manner in which Mead casually blends the supernatural with the comically mundane. This book will make you giggle, tear up a tad, and keep you stuck to your couch for hours on end. The hint of mystery and a constant element of surprise is a cherry on this enchanting urban fantasy pie.
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Dead Until Dark
by Charlaine Harris
Why Dead Until Dark is on this list:
In the small town of Bon Temps,, waitress Sookie Stackhouse has a 'disability' - she can read minds. Simple life becomes a lot less simple when she meets Bill Compton, a Civil War veteran and - you guessed it - vampire. With a well-paced mix of romance, action, and supernatural shenanigans, Dead Until Dark has something for everyone.
What readers like: Readers praise Dead Until Dark for its snappy dialogue, well-realized characters, and intriguing mysteries. Fans often highlight Sookie's character growth and the unpredictable plot twists as high points. Don't be surprised if you find yourself surprisingly empathetic towards a vampire, or laughing out loud at Sookie's reflections on life - all in a day's read.
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