With so many genres to choose from- what’s so special about clean urban fantasy?
When I set out to create this blog I decided to name it after the category of books I most read and write. First off, there’s no such thing as a bad genre of books. There is simply what speaks to you and what doesn’t. Some readers like informative, fact-filled books while others like a totally unrealistic romance. Through trial and error I have found urban fantasy to be my favorite.
I’m guessing it all depends on what you’re looking for when you sit down with a good book. I have a daughter who is very bright and well-read. She wants to be moved to action, to be shown a life that inspires her to be more. Many of the books she loves have what I would call sad endings and most are based in truth. She is reading to understand others and herself better and to find qualities she wants to embody or new, more harmonious ways to be in the world.
She and I couldn’t approach reading more differently! My life is filled with love and responsibility. I’m grateful for and thrive on these things. But at the end of the day I can’t wait to escape to a place that doesn’t exist, with people whose powers are awe-inspiring and not particularly based in reality. I love a good love story and am willing to suspend belief if it creates a quick escape and some excitement. This is why I read!
How to search for the books you will love
If you’re reading this blog I’m guessing you love this genre too! What is it about magical beings that make our own humanity a little more real? In order to be thorough I did some research on this genre. There are quite a few opinions on what constitutes different categories of reading but if you’re like me, you’re mostly looking for the correct keywords to link you to the books you like.
As far as the official definition goes, Oxford Languages defines urban fantasy as “a type of fantasy fiction in which the narrative is set in a city.” That definitely makes sense- I mean the word ‘urban’ is in the title. I have always thought of it more as when, rather than where a story takes place. Meaning that when I search “urban” it helps me to find books set near the present day. Many of my favorite series occur in smaller towns- but as long as they’re set in the current time it fits the bill for me.
There’s also an interesting Wikipedia article that delves into the what and why of urban fantasy if you want to get into the nitty gritty of it. Personally, I have found it helpful when searching for new authors to use the keywords “urban fantasy”, “paranormal romance”, “cozy fantasy” and “supernatural romance”. You can mix and match most of these keywords to help narrow your scope. I also add the word “clean” into my search to help clarify further. If you like books with more spice, obviously leave out the clean.
Clean urban fantasy books: here’s the criteria I’m looking for…
- Set in the present day (can be similar to our world or more dystopian)
- Mild language- I don’t mind some swearing but too much feels distracting
- Clean romance- I like to have more left to the imagination
- Fantasy- lots of magic! Fae, shifters, vampires, OH MY!
Hopefully that answers the question of what the heck is clean urban fantasy… I hope some of the reviews and inspiration here will be helpful and fun! Keep reading! -Eva
