Urban fantasy, with its blend of modern settings and magical elements, often features dynamic and powerful female protagonists. These strong women navigate through fantastical realms and face challenges that test their courage and resilience. Here’s a look at some of the best urban fantasy books with strong female leads that have captivated readers with their compelling characters and intriguing plots.

1. The Mortal Instruments Series by Cassandra Clare

Protagonist: Clary Fray
Description: Clary Fray discovers her hidden heritage as a Shadowhunter, a warrior destined to battle demons and other supernatural threats. Throughout the series, Clary evolves from a regular teenager into a fierce and capable heroine, leading her allies against dark forces.
Why She’s Strong: Clary’s growth from an ordinary girl into a powerful fighter showcases her bravery, resilience, and leadership qualities. Her determination to protect those she loves and her ability to face immense challenges make her a standout character in urban fantasy.

2. The Mercy Thompson Series by Patricia Briggs

Protagonist: Mercedes “Mercy” Thompson
Description: Mercy Thompson is a mechanic who also happens to be a “walker” — a shapeshifter with the ability to transform into a coyote. She navigates the supernatural world while managing her own complex relationships and dealing with various magical threats.
Why She’s Strong: Mercy’s independence, resourcefulness, and skill in handling both magical and mundane problems highlight her strength. Her ability to balance her personal life with her supernatural responsibilities makes her a compelling and powerful character.

Urban Fantasy Books That Feature Strong Female Leads
Urban Fantasy Books That Feature Strong Female Leads

3. The Kate Daniels Series by Ilona Andrews

Protagonist: Kate Daniels
Description: Kate Daniels is a magic-wielding private investigator in a post-apocalyptic Atlanta where magic and technology constantly clash. Her expertise in magic and combat, combined with her unyielding determination, makes her a formidable force in a world filled with supernatural dangers.
Why She’s Strong: Kate’s strength lies in her combat skills, her intelligence, and her unwavering commitment to protecting those she cares about. Her character growth throughout the series showcases her resilience and leadership.

4. The Women of the Otherworld Series by Kelley Armstrong

Protagonist: Various strong female leads, including Elena Michaels
Description: The series features a range of strong female protagonists, including Elena Michaels, the world’s only female werewolf. The stories explore their experiences and struggles as they navigate a world filled with supernatural beings and conflicts.
Why She’s Strong: Elena’s strength is demonstrated through her ability to reconcile her human and werewolf sides, her leadership within the werewolf community, and her fierce determination to protect her loved ones.

5. The Iron Druid Chronicles by Kevin Hearne

Protagonist: Atticus O’Sullivan
Description: Although the primary protagonist is male, the series features several powerful female characters such as the goddess Flidais and the druidess, Orlaith. These characters play crucial roles in the story, showcasing strength and resilience in their interactions with the magical world.
Why They’re Strong: The female characters in this series are depicted with depth and strength, often challenging traditional roles and making significant impacts on the storyline with their bravery and wisdom.

6. The Parasol Protectorate Series by Gail Carriger

Protagonist: Alexia Tarabotti
Description: Alexia Tarabotti is a preternatural woman with the ability to negate supernatural powers. Set in a steampunk Victorian London, Alexia uses her unique abilities to solve supernatural mysteries and navigate complex social dynamics.
Why She’s Strong: Alexia’s intelligence, independence, and courage in the face of danger make her a powerful and engaging protagonist. Her ability to balance her unconventional abilities with societal expectations adds depth to her character.

7. The InCryptid Series by Seanan McGuire

Protagonist: Verity Price
Description: Verity Price is a cryptozoologist and a member of a family dedicated to protecting magical creatures. She operates in a world where magical beings and humans coexist, facing various challenges to keep both worlds safe.
Why She’s Strong: Verity’s bravery, quick thinking, and dedication to her family’s mission highlight her strength. Her role as a protector of magical creatures showcases her resilience and leadership.

8. The Hollows Series by Kim Harrison

Protagonist: Rachel Morgan
Description: Rachel Morgan is a witch and bounty hunter in a world where magic and the supernatural are part of everyday life. She deals with various supernatural creatures and threats while uncovering dark secrets about her world.
Why She’s Strong: Rachel’s strength is evident in her magical abilities, her investigative skills, and her determination to confront dangerous situations. Her journey through the series reflects her growth and resilience.

9. The Chronicles of Elantra Series by Michelle Sagara

Protagonist: Kaylin Neya
Description: Kaylin Neya is a young woman with a troubled past who works as a constable in a city filled with magic and mythical creatures. Her job involves solving supernatural crimes and navigating complex political intrigues.
Why She’s Strong: Kaylin’s strength lies in her dedication to justice, her resilience in facing her past, and her courage in dealing with dangerous situations. Her character’s growth throughout the series showcases her inner strength and determination.

10. The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski

Protagonist: Ciri
Description: Ciri is a young woman with extraordinary powers and a significant destiny. In a world where magic and danger are commonplace, she must navigate her role and find her place in a tumultuous world.
Why She’s Strong: Ciri’s strength is reflected in her determination to fulfill her destiny, her ability to face great challenges, and her resilience in a world filled with magic and danger.


These urban fantasy novels highlight the diverse and empowering roles that female protagonists play in the genre. Their strength, bravery, and resilience make them memorable characters and offer readers a range of engaging stories that blend the fantastical with the modern.