I’ve been asked to define Urban Fantasy, as if I’m actually some authority. Let me make clear—I’m not even an authority on how to make a bed. I love analyzing and plotting, but mastering a topic requires more work than I care to do!
So here’s my very limited take on the genre: it combines mystery, horror, and fantasy, often with a touch of romance, but not necessarily any satisfactory resolution to the relationship. Paranormal romance is all about the relationship. Urban Fantasy is all about the world building and the escalating threats to the protagonist and to her world. Up until recently, it’s been dominated by werewolves and vampires and fairy tale creatures in a very interesting mix. Now, editors are looking for new avenues, which is where I come in…
I’ll list the urban fantasy authors I enjoy, but keep in mind this is a mere tip of the iceberg. I happen to like books with lots of excellent writing and characterization, not blood and guts. So if that’s your preference, try: Kelley Armstrong, Patricia Briggs, Charlaine Harris, Kim Harrison, and Carrie Vaughn. Then come back and let’s talk about them and any others you discover!
