9 Best Urban Fantasy Books In 2025

From shadowy city streets inhabited by supernatural creatures to secret magical societies hiding in plain sight, these books captivate with their thrilling plots, unforgettable characters, and enchanting world-building. Below is a list of 9 best urban fantasy books in 2025.

1. Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews

In Magic Bites, Kate Daniels is a no-nonsense mercenary navigating a post-apocalyptic Atlanta where technology and magic violently clash. When her guardian is murdered, Kate is thrust into a political tangle of necromancers, shapeshifters, and power struggles. Her sarcastic wit and lethal skills make her a standout heroine. Packed with sharp dialogue, intricate plotting, and intense action scenes, this first book lays a powerful foundation for the Kate Daniels series, one of the most beloved sagas in urban fantasy today.

2. Moon Called by Patricia Briggs

Living among werewolves, vampires, and fae, Mercy navigates a treacherous world of supernatural politics while staying fiercely independent. When a teenage werewolf arrives at her garage seeking help, a deadly plot unravels involving her past and the local werewolf pack. Briggs’ writing blends grounded realism with vivid fantasy elements, crafting a heroine who’s strong, relatable, and full of integrity. The book's pacing, character depth, and mythological lore create an irresistible blend, launching a long-running series that only gets better with time.

3. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

In Neverwhere, Richard Mayhew, a London office worker, helps a mysterious injured girl named Door and is quickly erased from the real world. He finds himself in London Below, a strange and dangerous underworld inhabited by outcasts, monsters, and living legends. As Richard searches for a way back to his normal life, he becomes entangled in a quest that reveals his hidden courage and purpose.

4. Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning

Darkfever kicks off the Fever series, introducing us to MacKayla Lane, a seemingly ordinary Southern girl whose life unravels after her sister is murdered in Dublin. Moning masterfully builds a dark, seductive world teeming with tension, betrayal, and sexual energy. The book’s brooding atmosphere, high stakes, and slow-burn romance make it a standout for readers who enjoy a more sensual, darker tone.

5. American Gods by Neil Gaiman

Gaiman’s literary prowess shines through every sentence, weaving Americana, mythology, and magic into a uniquely surreal narrative. Though it leans toward mythic fantasy, its modern-day setting and urban sprawl place it firmly within the urban fantasy realm. With its philosophical undertones, unforgettable characters, and cultural commentary, American Gods is a haunting, richly layered novel that redefines what fantasy can achieve in a contemporary world.

6. The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty

Set in 18th-century Cairo and the mystical city of Daevabad, The City of Brass tells the story of Nahri, a clever con artist and healer with unknown magical heritage. When she accidentally summons a powerful djinn warrior, her life spirals into political intrigue, ancient rivalries, and court conspiracies. Chakraborty’s vivid worldbuilding is steeped in Islamic mythology, folklore, and rich cultural history. The political and magical systems are intricately designed, offering a deep, immersive experience. It’s a refreshing departure from Western-centric fantasy, blending historical and urban fantasy elements seamlessly to create a stunning, magical epic filled with danger and heart.

7. Rivers of London by Ben Aaronovitch

This moment changes everything, drawing him into a secret branch of the London Metropolitan Police that deals with supernatural crimes. Under the mentorship of Detective Nightingale, the last wizard in Britain, Peter navigates cases involving ancient river gods, urban spirits, and deadly magic. With sharp British humor and a fresh take on police procedurals, Aaronovitch’s writing brings magical London to life. The novel’s wit, originality, and fast pace make it a standout in the urban fantasy genre.

8. Hounded by Kevin Hearne

Hounded kicks off The Iron Druid Chronicles with Atticus O’Sullivan, the last living druid, who runs a bookstore and tea shop in modern-day Arizona. Living under the radar for centuries, he’s suddenly targeted by a vengeful Celtic god. With his enchanted sword, wry humor, and talking Irish wolfhound Oberon, Atticus must outwit witches, demons, and gods. Hearne fuses fast-paced action with deep mythological roots, offering readers a unique magical perspective.

9. The Witching Hour by Anne Rice

Set in modern-day New Orleans, the novel spans generations, weaving together family secrets, dark magic, and forbidden knowledge. Rice’s lush prose and detailed historical depth give the novel a timeless, eerie elegance. With its blend of psychological horror, rich lore, and supernatural tension, The Witching Hour stands as a monumental work that redefined modern gothic and urban fantasy literature.

Conclusion

Urban fantasy offers a captivating escape into worlds where magic hides in plain sight, danger lurks in city shadows, and heroes battle both supernatural foes and personal demons.

Each book on this list brings something unique—be it rich mythology, fast-paced action, or unforgettable characters. Dive in, and discover why urban fantasy continues to enchant readers around the globe.