The 9 Most Riveting Urban Fantasy Detective Novels

Magic Bites (Kate Daniels, #1)

Why Magic Bites (Kate Daniels, #1) is on this list: Marry an urban setting to magic and add a dash of detective cunning, and this book is just the perfect brew for our riveting urban fantasy detective novels list.

Magic Bites is the curious tale of Kate Daniels, a mercenary who cleans up after magic gone wrong. In a world swinging between magic and tech waves, Kate has to untangle a gnarly knot of a mystery when her guardian is murdered. Vampires, shapeshifters, and people with paranormal powers, the book is a roller coaster ride through fantasy and reality.

What readers like: Readers can't get enough of Kate's badass character and her sharp-edged snark. They dig the unique play of magic and technology in a familiar yet strange Atlanta. The cherry on top is the intricate, mind-bending mystery that keeps everyone on their toes. And did we mention there's a hint of romance brewing as well? Yup, it's that compelling and complete.

Moon Called (Mercy Thompson, #1)

Why Moon Called (Mercy Thompson, #1) is on this list: Moon Called is a head-spinning blend of urban fantasy and detective fiction. Patricia Briggs puts a supernatural spin on crime-solving, venturing deeper than just who-dun-it, to 'what' really did it.

Mercedes Thompson isn't your average mechanic-she can shift into a coyote at will. Living in the Tri-Cities area of Washington, she's surrounded by fae, witches, vampires, and werewolves, which makes her job - fixing cars and solving troublesome supernatural mysteries - a bit hairier than usual. Moon Called kicks off her tale, as Mercy gets entangled in a dangerous turf war and must use her unique wits to unravel a dark conspiracy.

What readers like: Readers love Mercy for her toughness, her wrench-wielding skills, and her coyote-shifting abilities. But they also absolutely enjoy the way she unravels mysteries, a step at a time. Briggs' fantastical world is brilliantly conceived, and the dynamic between Mercy and the rest of the cast of characters is superb, at times heartwarming and in others, thrilling. If you dig crime-solving ladies with a supernatural twist, this one's an absolute must-read.

Hounded (The Iron Druid Chronicles, #1)

Why Hounded (The Iron Druid Chronicles, #1) is on this list: If you ever wondered what a Druid in modern-day Arizona would look like if he was a detective - this is it. It's the perfect blend of fantasy, mystery, and that all-important urban grit.

Meet Atticus O'Sullivan, a 2000 years old, tattooed Irishman who happens to be the last of the druids. He's got a shape-shifting hound, a sarcastic wit, and a knack for landing in the thick of folklore-fueled trouble. In 'Hounded', Atticus is pursued by an angry Celtic love god who wants his magical sword. Oh, and let's not forget the coven of witches and pack of werewolves that are always lurking in the shadows.

What readers like: Readers love the quick wit and dark humor of the main character, his unconventional alliances with mythical beings, and how he solves mysteries while evading deities that wouldn't mind seeing him dead. They also appreciate the modern spin on ancient mythology, made all the more interesting by the complexities of Atticus' druidic magic. The blend of thriller, comedy, and fantastical elements makes 'Hounded' a must-read.

Dead Witch Walking (The Hollows, #1)

Why Dead Witch Walking (The Hollows, #1) is on this list: It's a befitting hybrid of urban fantasy and classic detective stories, infused with supernatural beings and thrilling investigations in a bustling city setting. A witch running her own bounty-hunting agency in a parallel universe? The concept itself screams 'riveting urban fantasy detective'.

The book introduces us to Rachel Morgan, a witch and bounty hunter who has grown sick and tired of dealing with bureaucratic red-tape at her horrible day job. So, she decides to leave her secure job and starts her own independent agency. Now, the thrill doesn't just stop there. She discovers her boss has put a price on her head, and it's open season on witches in the city. Rachel has to navigate through supernatural creatures, magic, bravado, and just a smidgen of sheer dumb luck to survive. All in all, she's not having an easy workweek.

What readers like: Readers truly enjoy the relatable, flawed, and humorous character of Rachel Morgan, as well as the vibrant world building, and the action-packed, fast-paced plot. The magic-woven investigative elements, the imprinted dark humour, and the well-developed supporting characters make it an unputdownable novel for urban fantasy and detective story enthusiasts.

Storm Front (The Dresden Files, #1)

Why Storm Front (The Dresden Files, #1) is on this list: This book makes our list due to its breathtaking fusion of urban fantasy and detective mystery. Combine a grizzled private eye with a dash of wizardry on the streets of Chicago and you've got yourself exactly the kind of book this list is all about.

Meet Harry Dresden, Chicago’s first (and only) Wizard P.I.. Whether it's vampires running amok, missing unicorns, or your everyday cases of loves gone wrong, Dresden is sure to bring his unique blend of magic and hard-boiled detective work to the case. In 'Storm Front', his expertise is called upon to solve a high-profile murder that involves dark magic.

What readers like: Readers rave about the intriguing mix of genres, merging the best ofshoe noir with a side of spellcasting. The dry wit and humor of the protagonist, the richly developed world that merges the mundane with the magical, and Butcher's easy-to-read style keeps them hooked from the first page to the last.

Kitty and The Midnight Hour (Kitty Norville, #1)

Why Kitty and The Midnight Hour (Kitty Norville, #1) is on this list: This book mashes up the gritty cityscape with a fantastical spin, heavily featuring a protagonist who's part detective part supernatural creature. It's a smorgasbord of urban fantasy and detective mystery all rolled into one.

Follow the tale of Kitty Norville, a late-night radio host who accidentally turns her radio show into a hotline for werewolves, vampires, and other supernatural creatures needing help. As if managing her work life wasn't enough, she now also has to navigate her life as a newly turned werewolf and solve supernatural mysteries that come her way.

What readers like: Readers adore the relatable nature of Kitty Norville, who is slogging her way through her job and life just like the rest of us, but with an added supernatural twist. They appreciate the fast-paced plot and compelling mysteries woven into the narrative, leaving them turning the pages late into the night.

Bloodshot (Cheshire Red Reports, #1)

Why Bloodshot (Cheshire Red Reports, #1) is on this list: This book is the first in a series known as the Cheshire Red Reports, which presents a fresh spin on the stale cat-and-mouse chase dynamic by supernatural elements. It pulls off a perfect between fantasy and detective work'll have you glued to page.

What readers like: Readers have continually praised Priest's blend of dark humor and paranormal intrigue. Her character, Raylene, is a sass-machine with a biting wit - literally and metaphorically. The book is a great, mostly light-hearted romp through the gritty streets and hidden underworlds of urban America, but with a magical twist. Fans of mystery and the supernatural will find this book a treat. Not relishing on just the action, the book also explores deeper themes such as acceptance and conditions of society in supernatural beings through Raylene's narrative. This multi-layered plot makes it a must-read and a standout in the genre.

Red-Headed Stepchild (Sabina Kane, #1)

Why Red-Headed Stepchild (Sabina Kane, #1) is on this list: How can you ignore a red-headed half-vampire, half-mage private investigator whose job involves more than picking through people's dirty laundry? Well, you can't. Red-Headed Stepchild perfectly fits the bill of an urban fantasy detective novel with its mystical spin and detective tones.

Sabina Kane is not your typical private investigator. She is stuck between two worlds – the vampires of her father's side and the dark mages from her mother's. As an outcast in both realms, Sabina's survival mechanism involves a careful blend of wits, magic, and raw power. Right when she's assigned the task of infiltrating a cult with apocalyptic intentions, Sabina stumbles upon a very secretive (and dangerously attractive) mage who knows more than he should. Simply put, this novel has it all - mystery, magic, and a dash of romantic tension.

What readers like: Readers fall in love with Sabina - her sass, dedication, and grit make her an unforgettable character. They enjoy the blend of mystery and fantasy in an urban setting. Also, Jaye Wells' sense of humor seeps into the pages, making the read all the more enjoyable. If your idea of good-time involves dark magic, vampire politics, and unraveling mysteries in a setting that feels as normal as your downtown block, then Red-Headed Stepchild might be your cup of tea.

Grave Witch (Alex Craft, #1)

Why Grave Witch (Alex Craft, #1) is on this list: Well, the detective in this novel can chat with the deceased and resides in a city plagued with magic and mysterious creatures. If that doesn't scream 'urban fantasy detective' at you, nothing will.

Alex Craft is not your typical private investigator. Her clients include ghosts who need her to solve their untimely deaths, and her suspect list usually features ghouls, faeries, or witches. When she is called to the scene of a strange murder, she finds more than just a dead body- she discovers a dark magic that threatens her life, and the city she loves.

What readers like: Readers love Alex's wit and willpower, alongside her unique ability to converse with the dead. The magic system is intricate, and the magical city Kalayna Price has built pulls you in, making you wish for your own pair of magical detective goggles. The plot is fast-paced, peppered with romantic tension, dark magic, and even some humor. Plus, let's not forget about the mesmerizing mysteries that leave readers anxious for the turn of every page.