What Are The Best Urban Fantasy Novels in 2025

First book in the urban fantasy series, The Dresden Files.

Storm Front is the first novel in Jim Butcher's critically acclaimed urban fantasy series, The Dresden Files. The book introduces the character of Harry Dresden, a wizard detective who investigates supernatural mysteries in contemporary Chicago. Combining elements of detective fiction with magical realism and humor, Storm Front delivers an engaging and inventive take on the urban fantasy genre.

First book in the Dresden Files series

Storm Front is the first installment of the Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher. The protagonist, Harry Dresden, is not your ordinary detective - he's also a wizard. The story combines elements of mystery and the supernatural, offering a unique take on the urban fantasy genre. The plot is well-crafted, the characters are relatable, and the writing style is engaging.

First book in the Kate Daniels urban fantasy series.

Magic Bites is the first book in the Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews. The story revolves around Kate, a mercenary who cleans up magical problems. When her guardian is murdered, she's thrust into a world of shapeshifters and vampires. The book combines a fast-paced plot with a well-developed magical world, resulting in a captivating urban fantasy novel.

First book in the Mortal Instruments series

City of Bones, the first book in The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare, introduces readers to a hidden world of shadowhunters, warlocks, vampires, and demons. The protagonist, Clary Fray, finds herself thrust into this world after her mother disappears. The book is well-written, with a gripping storyline and well-developed characters.

First book in the Mercy Thompson urban fantasy series.

Moon Called is the first book in Patricia Briggs' popular Mercy Thompson series. Mercy, a mechanic and a shapeshifter, gets entangled in a mystery involving the local werewolf pack. The book combines elements of mystery, supernatural, and fantasy, delivering a compelling urban fantasy novel that leaves readers wanting more.

First book in the Mercy Thompson series

Moon Called is the first book in the Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs. The protagonist, Mercy, is a mechanic who can shapeshift into a coyote. When she gets embroiled in a supernatural war, she must use her wits and abilities to survive. The book features a strong heroine, an engaging plot, and a well-developed world.

First book in The Hollows urban fantasy series.

Dead Witch Walking is the first book in the Hollows series by Kim Harrison. It introduces Rachel Morgan, a witch and bounty hunter, in a post-apocalyptic world where supernatural beings have come out of hiding. The book combines a gripping plot with a unique magic system, resulting in a captivating urban fantasy novel.

First book in the Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter series.

Guilty Pleasures is the first book in Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter series. Anita, a necromancer and vampire hunter, investigates a series of vampire murders in St. Louis. The book combines horror, mystery, and fantasy, creating a unique urban fantasy novel that has gained a significant following.

First book in the Fever series

Darkfever is the first book in the Fever series by Karen Marie Moning. The protagonist, MacKayla Lane, ventures into a world of dark magic and dangerous creatures to avenge her sister's death. The book features a strong heroine, an engaging plot, and an interesting world.