21 Addicting Urban Fantasy Books to Read Now

Practical Magic

Author: Alice Hoffman

Year: 1995

Genre: Fantasy/ Magical realism

More info: Practical Magic Series

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range:15+

Plot

For years, the Owens women have known that their bad luck is because of a curse. This book is the first book written in the Practical Magic series. I adore this tale of magic, family, and sisterhood. At this point, this is one of the best magical realism books and it is truly iconic.

Gillian and Sally are sisters who have been raised by their two aunts after their parents die. They both want to leave their small Massachusetts town. But, when Gillian gets into trouble, she runs to Sally for help.

The trouble comes back to haunt them and when a police chief comes to town looking for answers, the sisters try hard to cover up their family secrets. The powerful bond between the Owens sisters brings this story to life and is a constant throughout all the books in the series. This is the first published book in the Practical Magic series and the one I recommend you read first.

Why Jackie loves it

This is truly an iconic witch book and is one of the cases where the movie has become iconic as well. I love the story but also the unbreakable bond between Sally and Gilly. This story is about truly finding yourself

Why Kirsten loves it

I love Practical Magic as part of a series and as a stand-alone novel. The bonds of sisterhood are so strong that the magic and the story leave me with that feeling you get after an amazing book. This is also my go-to Halloween movie along with Hocus Pocus.

Find this book in: Practical Magic Books in Order / Alice Hoffman Books / Books About Sisters / Witch Books / Books By Jewish Authors / Best Adult Fantasy

Vampire Urban Fantasy Books

The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires

Author: Grady Hendrix

Year: 2020

Genre: Fantasy

More info: Horror Thriller

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

I do not usually like horror but I love thrillers, book clubs, and vampires so I decided to read this urban fantasy book. I absolutely loved every minute- even when I was completely scared out of my wits. This vampire book will have you on your toes.

This book really is Steel Magnolias meets Dracula. Patricia is a housewife with two kids who don’t appreciate her and a husband who travels a lot. She spends a lot of her time caring for her senile mother-in-law who lives with them. When her elderly neighbor attacks her one night, James comes to the rescue. James seems well-read and well-traveled but Patricia is convinced he is a monster in disguise.

Patricia knows what she sees but nobody else agrees with her. The psychological warfare in this adult fantasy book is next-level creepy – it definitely earns its spot on our Best Books of 2020 list! Be warned that this book is scary and creepy but is one of the best books for fall!

Trigger Warnings

Rape, Gore, Blood

Why Jackie loves it

This book is one of the scariest books I have ever read and yet, I loved every second. This book will mess with everything you think is true. There is graphic violence which was actually less scary than the anticipation of a jump scare the entire time I was reading this book.

Find this book in: Urban Fantasy Books/ Adult Fantasy Novels / Vampire Books / Best Books of 2020

Dead Until Dark

Author: Charlaine Harris

Year: 2008

Genre: Adult Fantasy

More info: Sookie Stackhouse 1 of 13

Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

I watched this show before I knew that it was an adult fantasy book series and then I obviously had to read these vampire books as well. Sookie Stackhouse is a waitress at a bar in her small town in Louisiana. She is quiet and keeps to herself except for the fact that she can read people’s minds.

When Bill Compton comes into the bar one night, Sookie cannot hear anything he is thinking and she is quickly infatuated. The feeling is mutual. But when murders start taking place and the two suspects are Bill, and Sookie’s womanizing brother, Sookie starts to question her life choices. There is nothing PG about this steamy urban fantasy romance series.

Trigger Warnings

blood, violence

Why Jackie loves it

There is something very addicting about this vampire romance series. The books are dark and creepy full of unique and hilarious characters. I could not help but love.

Find this book in: Urban Fantasy Books / Books Like A Discovery of Witches / Vampire Books / Ultimate List of Adult Fantasy Books / Adult Fantasy Novels

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Royal vampires and their bodyguards train at the famed Vampire Academy where this book is set. Lissa is a princess and her best friend, Rose, is preparing to be her protector. This is a ya fantasy that is not to be missed.

When a series of crazy events threaten Lissa’s safety, Rose is on a mission to figure out who is behind the threats….. if she doesn’t get distracted while lusting over her teacher first. If you like the Zodiac Academy books, we think you will love this pick from fantasy romance books for teens!

Storm Front by Jim Butcher

A friend who is an avid fantasy reader recommended this book to me. I had never heard of this series before but, I really enjoyed it and I cannot wait to read the next one in the series. This is the first book in the 17-book series, The Dresden Files.

Wizards, Vampires, and warlocks are all a part of this book in which Harry Dresden is consulting with the Chicago PD on a homicide committed with magic. This is a dark urban fantasy series that will keep you turning pages. If you love vampires, this is one of the fantasy books for adults that is a must-read.

Guilty Pleasures:

Author: Laurell K. Hamilton

Year: 2009

Genre: Fantasy Romance

More info: An Anita Blake Vampire Hunter Novel

Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Anita Baker is a vampire hunter who is forced to help the master vampire figure out who is behind the recent vampire murders plaguing their town. It gave me adult Buffy the Vampire Slayer vibes. This is one of the vampire books that is not for the faint of heart. This is an urban fantasy romance that is erotic, to say the least.

While the first book in this series isn’t terribly romantic, my understanding is that it gets quite steamy as the series progresses. As in erotic-level steamy, so prepare yourself for that before diving in.

Trigger Warnings

Graphic Sexual Content

Why Kirsten likes it:

This is a vampire romance that is unlike anything that I have read. Be prepared for graphic content in this one. It is not for the faint of heart.

Find this book in: Vampire Books / Adult Fantasy Romance Books

If you are looking for more Vampire Books, check out our list!

Fae Urban Fantasy Books

Filthy Rich Fae

Author: Geneva Lee

Year: 2024

Genre: Fantasy Romance

More info: Filthy Rich Fae #1

Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

The Fae courts are connected to some of the most bustling cities in the modern world, where the veil between the worlds are thin and Fae rule the human cities as well as their courts. Lachlan Gage is the rules New Orleans, but he isn’t just running a criminal empire – he’s the Fae prince ruling the underside of the city.

Cate Holloway doesn’t know that when she comes to make a bargain – her services in exchange for her brother’s freedom from Gage’s grasp. But as she learns the truth – and falls for Gage – her world is turned on it’s axis.

Why Kirsten loves it

I devoured this book. The world-building was amazing, but I can tell there is more lore to be unraveled in further stories. I’m just so upset this one ended on a cliffhanger. I need to know what happens next! #gifted by Entangled

Find this book in: Fae Books / Urban Fantasy Books / Adult Fantasy Novels

Glimmerglass by Jenna Black

This was a fun quick YA read from our list of fae books. Dana Hathaway is a half-human, half-Faerie 16-year-old. She leaves her alcoholic mother to go to Avalon and meet her father for the first time.

Avalon is the gateway to the fairy realm and she will soon question who she should trust when she discovers she is a Faeriewalker, someone who can travel between the human and faerie world. Now, that she is caught between two worlds, she does not know who to trust and everyone seems to want something from her. This YA fantasy book is a fun and quick read if you are looking for books like ACOTAR and is fun read if you are looking for urban fantasy books.

Zodiac Academy: The Awakening

Author: Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti

Year: 2019

Genre: Fantasy Romance

More info: Zodiac Academy Book 1 if 12

Spice Rating:💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Whew. I have found my newest adult fantasy romance series addiction. Orphan twins Tory and Darcy find out they are actually Fae after their 18th birthday. And not just any Fae, they are the heirs to the throne and they only need to graduate from Zodiac Academy to claim their throne.

The problem comes in the form of the four Heirs – The boys in each elemental order who have been raised to share the throne and rule Solaria together in the Twins’ absence.They aren’t planning to give up their claim anytime soon and they use their considerable magic in the air, fire, earth, and water elements to put these girls to the test.

This urban fantasy series is on fire hot, with lots of steam, bullying romance, and deadly situations. Even though this is one of a few great books set in high school, do NOT read this one if you are under 18.

Why Kirsten loves it

There is something about this series that is seriously addicting. There is romance, adventure, and some serious girl power in this series.

Why Jackie likes it

I liked this series but didn’t love it as much as Kirsten. The bullying felt too abusive to me and the pranks were a little too dangerous. And despite those reservations, I wanted to see Tory and Darcy kick some butts. As the series progresses and the sisters become more powerful, the story gets a lot more detailed.

Find this book in: Urban Fantasy / Book Like ACOTAR / Books Like Zodiac Academy / Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Books Set in College / Adult Fantasy Novels / Adult Fantasy Novels

If you love Fae Books, you can check out our entire list.

Dark Academia Urban Fantasy Books

Ninth House

Author: Leigh Bardugo

Year: 2019

Genre: Fantasy

More info: Alex Stern #1

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Alex Stearn is the sole survivor of a horrible homicide. While recovering in the hospital, she is offered a chance to attend Yale on a full scholarship. She finds the Secret Societies of Yale, each practicing a unique type of magic.

Trigger Warnings

Sexual Assault

Why Jackie loves it

There are so many things about this urban fantasy book that I love. It is filled with magic, unlike anything you have ever read before. It has fantasy, secret societies, magic, and mystery. I could not put it down.

Find this book in: Urban Fantasy / Books Set in College / Books About Secret Society / Magic School Books / Adult Books similar to Harry Potter / Best Books of 2019 / Best Adult Fantasy Novels

A Discovery of Witches

Author: Deborah Harkness

Year: 2011

Genre: Fantasy

More info: All Souls Trilogy #1

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Diana Bishop is in Oxford’s Bodleian Library when she accidentally recovers an ancient book, Ashmole 782, that has been missing for hundreds of years. In doing so, she triggers her long-forgotten magic and opens the door for vampires, witches, and demons to search out Diana and the book.

Matthew de Clermont is one of the vampires drawn to Ashmole 782. He has been looking for it for hundreds of years. Soon it is clear that even though relationships between species is forbidden, Matthew is drawn to Diana for more than just the book. The two begin to work together to unravel the mysteries behind the book, the magic and the people looking for the book.

This urban fantasy book about secret societies, witches, vampires, and more is a blend of heart-pounding action, historical fiction, and romance with the perfect mix of fantasy as well.

Trigger Warnings

Blood, torture

Why Jackie loves it

If you love the witch aspect of Harry Potter, Vampires, fantasy books, or time travel books then you will love The All Souls trilogy. This adult fantasy novel explores the history of witches, demons, and vampires. This series reads like a historical fiction and I love it. I thought the series was done at book four and was so excited to learn that there is a new book in the series!

Find this book in: Books Like A Discovery of Witches / Best Fantasy Books for Adults / Books About Witches / Adult Books Similar to Harry Potter / Books About Libraries / Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Adult Fantasy Novels

The Magicians

Author: Lev Grossman

Year: 2009

Genre: Fantasy

More info: Magicians Book 1 of 3

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Quentin Coldwater is a high school student obsessed with the made-up world of Fillory. He finds himself admitted to a magical college that is both secret and elite. This one has an almost cult-like following.

The best way I can describe this series is if Harry Potter was admitted to Hogwarts in College. It has a different, darker feel but it is fun, imaginative, and entertaining. The magic in this school is a little bit dark. If you love urban fantasy books, you must read this series of books like Harry Potter. This is a witch book unlike any other.

Why Jackie loves it

This is dark and unique- unlike any book I have read before.

Find this book in: Books Set in College / Dark Academia Books / Best Witch Books / Adult Books Similar to Harry Potter / Best Adult Fantasy Novels

25 Addicting Dark Academia Books to Read Now

Are you looking for more dark academia books? Check our this list!

Urban Fantasy Romance Books

Twilight

Author: Stephenie Meyer

Year: 2005

Genre: YA Fantasy

More info: The Twilight Saga #1

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

When Bella Swan goes to live with her father in Forks, Washington, she needs to start a new school. As she begins to settle in and make friends, she is drawn to Edward Cullen, a mysterious teenager with an old soul.

But Edward and his family are keeping secrets – they are more dangerous than they look. Can Bella stay away or will she fall for Edward and risk her life in the process?

Why Kirsten loves it

The way I binged this book series…. it took over my life! When the movie came out, I decided to finally read this series I had heard so much about. I finished each book in about a day and then promptly dragged my husband to see it with me. I haven’t been this obsessed with a series since HP.

Why Jackie loves it

Twilight started a phenomenon and obsession with vampires in the same way that Harry Potter created an obsession with magic. It was addictive to read! This is my opinion but I am sticking with it. This is a must-read young adult fantasy book.

Find this book in: Fantasy Book Series / Books Set in High School / High School Romances / Twilight Books in Order / Urban Fantasy Books / Vampire Books

Fallen

Author: Lauren Kate

Year: 2009

Genre: YA Fantasy

More info: Fallen #1

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

Luce has been sent to Sword and Cross boarding school, a place for other troubled kids like her. The minute she gets to the school, Daniel catches her eye but he will not give her the time of day. But there is more to Daniel and Luce will discover his secrets no matter what the cost.

This Fae series is addicting. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. If you are looking for romance books about second chances (or third or fourth), you will love this book. If you are into Rhysand, Azriel, Cassian, and the other winged warriors of the Night Court, then you will love this series of books like A Court of Thorns and Roses.

Why Kirsten loves it

I picked up the first book in this YA fantasy series and quickly fell in love with the first book and the story of Daniel and Luce’s love.

Why Jackie loves it

This Fae series is addicting. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. If you are into Rhysand, Azriel, Cassian, and the other winged warriors of the Night Court, this is the book for you!

Find this book in: Fae Books / Best Fantasy Books for Teens / Urban Fantasy / Books Set in High School

Neon Gods by Katee Robert

I was expecting a modern retelling of Hades and Persephone’s love story from the description – I was not expecting a book like Fifty Shades of Grey!

WHEW… this was one STEAMY story! I wasn’t quite prepared for how devious Hades was in this version. I did love seeing Olympus in a modern setting and I really enjoyed how Hades and Persephone outwitted the rest of the 13 in this grumpy sunshine romance.

While I liked the story a great deal, if you aren’t into erotica, you won’t want to pick up this adult fantasy novel. This is the first in a series of Greek mythology retellings and is a great urban fantasy romance book.

Storm and Fury by Jennifer L. Armentrout

I loved the Disney cartoon Gargoyles when I was a little girl, so when I saw a YA Fantasy book that is also a paranormal romance book, I knew I needed it. I read this to help ease me out of my House of Earth and Blood book hangover and it was a perfect read. This pick from fantasy romance books for

It’s actually a spin-off of one of Armentrout’s other YA fantasy book series, which I didn’t know until after I read the story. I didn’t feel like I missed anything having read this first. Gargoyles are Wardens out to fight demons and protect humans, and one special human in particular. This urban fantasy is as much romance as fantasy.

Ultimate List of Romances

If you love all things romance, then this is the list for you! This is carefully divided by sub-genres like second-chance romance books, romcoms, and more.

Urban Fantasy Books About Witches

The Ex Hex

Author: Erin Sterling

Year: 2021

Genre: Magical Realism/ Fantasy Romance

More info: New York Times Bestseller
The Graves Glen Series

Spice Rating:💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

This is the most charming Halloween romance book about witches EVER. I don’t think I’ve read anything quite like it, but it’s perfect for the spooky season and a perfect book for fall.

Nine years ago Rhys Penhallow broke Viviane Jones’ heart and so she cursed him. Now he’s back in the town his family founded to infuse magic back into the ley lines but everything goes wrong!

As his curse takes over the town, Rhys and Vivi have to work to end the curse and restore the right magic back to the town…if they can keep their rekindled romance at bay long enough!

Why Jackie loves it

There is so much to this fantasy romance book to love. The story is sweet, charming, and easy to read for a fun Halloween read.

Find this book in: Urban Fantasy Books / Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Second Chance Romance Books

Weyward by Emilia Hart

Author: Emilia Hart

Year: 2023

Genre: Historical Fantasy

More info: Indie Next March 2023 Pick, Winner of two Goodreads Choice Awards (Best Debut and Best Historical Fiction)

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

This is such a well-thought-out book and one of the best witch books I have read in a while. This adult fantasy book follows three Weyward women. In 2017, Kate is fleeing an abusive partner to her great-aunt’s cottage. In 1619, Altha is awaiting her own witch trial and in 1942 we meet Violet whose father keeps her trapped in her house because she cannot fit into what society expects of her.

Each of these women finds themselves and who they are as the story progresses and I found myself completely sucked in.

Why Jackie loves it

I loved this debut fantasy novel and I cannot wait to see what comes next from this author. It is also a perfect book to read if you love the Practical Magic Series or the All Souls Trilogy. If fantasy books are your favorite, you will love this book.

Find this book in: The Best Witch Books / Books Like A Discovery of Witches / Ultimate List of Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Urban Fantasy Books / Nonlinear Narrative Novels / Best Adult Fantasy Novels

The Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert

This is such an original book that is a fairy tale (think original Grimm’s tales as opposed to Disney) that meets the modern day. Alice is 17 when she learns about the existence of magic and that the bad luck that has been following her may not be luck at all.

I kept thinking about what would have happened to Harry Potter if he did not know about magic until he was 17. This YA fantasy book like Harry Potter is so original and fun, I knew I had to include it in this list. It is also a fun original urban fantasy book.

If you love books about witches, check out this great list.

More Urban Fantasy Books

All of Us Villains by Amanda Foody and Christine Lynn Herman

Seven families compete every twenty years over control of high magick. When the Blood Moon rises, the blood veil falls and each family chooses one child to compete to the death. The stakes are high and the prize is epic.

I loved this urban fantasy book and it left me simultaneously freaked out and wanting more. The parents in this book are brutal and willing to sacrifice their children willingly. It is perfect for fans of The Hunger Games, but, the magical competition in this book makes it perfect for a list of books like The Night Circus. This is one of the must-read young adult fantasy books.

The Atlas Six

Author: Olivie Blake

Year: 2022

Genre: Fantasy

More info: (Atlas Series Book 1)
Instant New York Times Bestseller
A Vulture Best Fantasy Novel 2022

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

The Alexandrian Society members are the guardians of knowledge from the greatest civilizations that have ever existed. Six of the most brilliant magical academicians are chosen every decade to take their place in this secret society. Five will go on the secure a life filled with all the wealth and power they could dream of.

When the candidates of this decade are chosen, they each have powerful abilities that could lead to greatness or destruction. They find that The Society may not be everything it appears. This is book has an almost cult-like following and is an urban fantasy book you will not want to miss.

Why Jackie loves it

There are so many twists and turns to this fantasy dark academia novel, that I am not sure where to begin. I do know that I will be reading the next book! The plot is twisty and the characters are complex. This is a dark adult fantasy for those that like a lighter read.

Find this book in: Urban Fantasy Books / Books About Secret Societies / The Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Books Like Ninth House

Mortal Engines by Philip Reeve

I had heard so much about this book and was excited to read it. I have a hard time not comparing this young adult fantasy book to the Divergent Series and The Hunger Games which were both amazing.

This book is part fantasy and part sci-fi in a world of predator cities. Giant cities chase small towns and devour them in an effort to survive. Of all the urban fantasy books, this one closely resembles sci-fi.

Find this book in Books Like the Hunger Games / YA Dystopian Books / Urban Fantasy Books