Best Urban Fantasy Books May 2025

The Angel’s Game

In the shadowy streets of 1920s Barcelona, a struggling writer named David Martín receives an offer he can’t refuse. Commissioned by a mysterious publisher to write a book that will change lives, David is drawn into a world of dark secrets and forbidden passions. As he delves deeper into his task, reality blurs with fiction, and David finds himself entangled in a dangerous game where the line between genius and madness becomes increasingly thin. Zafón’s haunting prose weaves a spellbinding tale of love, betrayal, and the power of words that will keep you turning pages long into the night.

The Shadow of the Wind

In the labyrinthine streets of post-war Barcelona, young Daniel stumbles upon a mysterious book that changes his life forever. Captivated by its haunting story, he embarks on a perilous quest to uncover the truth behind its enigmatic author. As Daniel delves deeper, he unravels a web of secrets, forbidden love, and dark family histories. Zafón’s masterful prose weaves a spellbinding tale of passion, betrayal, and the power of literature, leaving readers breathless and yearning for more.

Carry On

Simon Snow’s final year at Watford School of Magicks is anything but ordinary. As the prophesied “Chosen One,” he’s struggling with his unpredictable magic and the looming threat of the Insidious Humdrum. His roommate and nemesis, Baz, is suspiciously absent, and Simon can’t shake his obsession with uncovering Baz’s secrets. When Baz finally returns, their antagonistic relationship takes an unexpected turn, forcing Simon to question everything he thought he knew about magic, destiny, and his own heart.

Good Omens

I found myself utterly enchanted by “Good Omens,” a delightful collaboration between Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett. This wickedly funny tale of an impending apocalypse had me chuckling from start to finish. The unlikely friendship between an angel and a demon, set against the backdrop of a looming Armageddon, is both heartwarming and hilarious. With its clever wordplay and satirical take on religion, prophecy, and human nature, this book is a true gem that I couldn’t put down.

The Sea of Monsters

Percy Jackson’s summer at Camp Half-Blood is anything but peaceful. When Thalia’s tree, which protects the camp, is poisoned, Percy and his friends embark on a perilous quest to find the Golden Fleece. Battling mythical creatures and facing treacherous waters, they navigate the Sea of Monsters. With humor and heart, Riordan weaves Greek mythology into a modern adventure, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. I couldn’t put it down, rooting for Percy every step of the way.

The Cricket in Times Square

Chester, a musical cricket from Connecticut, finds himself in the bustling heart of New York City. Befriended by a streetwise mouse and a tender-hearted cat, Chester’s extraordinary talent for chirping classical melodies brings joy to the gloomy Times Square subway station. As word of his gift spreads, Chester faces the choice between fame and the simple pleasures of friendship. This heartwarming tale reminds us that sometimes, the most unexpected encounters can lead to the most beautiful harmonies in life.

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children

Discover a world of mystery and wonder in Ransom Riggs’ “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children.” As I turned each page, I was drawn deeper into Jacob’s journey, uncovering family secrets and a hidden realm of extraordinary individuals. Riggs’ masterful blend of eerie vintage photographs and captivating prose creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that lingered in my mind long after I finished reading. This isn’t just a book; it’s an experience that will leave you questioning the boundaries between reality and the impossible.

The Graveyard Book

Nobody Owens, known as Bod, is a normal boy. Well, he would be if he didn’t live in a graveyard, raised by ghosts, with a guardian who belongs to neither the world of the living nor the dead. Bod has adventures in the graveyard and the world of the living, but it’s in the land of the dead where he’ll face his greatest challenge. Gaiman’s masterful storytelling weaves a tale of wonder, friendship, and courage that will captivate readers of all ages. A haunting yet heartwarming journey through life, death, and the spaces in between.

Artemis Fowl

Twelve-year-old criminal mastermind Artemis Fowl hatches a daring plan to steal fairy gold. But he’s not prepared for the cunning and magic of the Lower Elements Police. As Artemis navigates a world of high-tech fairies, centaurs, and a kleptomaniac dwarf, he discovers that outsmarting these creatures is harder than he thought. With wit, action, and a dash of humor, this thrilling adventure will keep you guessing until the very end.

The Lightning Thief

Percy Jackson’s life is turned upside down when he discovers he’s a demigod. Suddenly, Greek myths come alive, and he’s thrust into a world of monsters, gods, and quests. With newfound friends and powers, Percy embarks on a thrilling journey to prevent a war between the Olympians. Riordan’s witty narrative and clever reimagining of mythology captivate readers, young and old. I couldn’t put it down, laughing and gasping as Percy faced each challenge. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, humor, and heart.