Fantasy literature has always been a genre that invites readers into worlds of imagination, magic, and adventure. Over the years, one subgenre that has gained significant attention and popularity is LGBTQIA+ fantasy, a genre that centers on stories featuring diverse, LGBTQIA+ characters navigating fantastical realms. The growing presence of LGBTQIA+ themes in fantasy is a reflection of the larger cultural shift toward inclusivity and representation, giving voice to communities often underrepresented in mainstream narratives.
Within this vibrant and evolving genre, urban fantasy stands out as a unique and compelling subgenre. Urban fantasy blends elements of magic, mythical creatures, and supernatural forces with contemporary urban environments. This juxtaposition of the ordinary and the extraordinary allows authors to explore complex social issues and themes, such as identity, belonging, and love, in ways that feel both grounded and imaginative. Urban settings, with their rich diversity and complexity, provide the perfect backdrop for LGBTQIA+ characters to navigate not only the challenges of living in a modern world but also the trials of being different in a world that often feels unwelcoming.
For LGBTQIA+ readers, urban fantasy offers a space where representation is not just about existing but thriving in fantastical, multifaceted worlds. The genre allows for the exploration of queer identities, relationships, and experiences in ways that feel authentic, empowering, and meaningful. As the genre continues to grow, it opens up new possibilities for LGBTQIA+ narratives, offering visibility and a sense of belonging in a space that was once dominated by heteronormative themes.
What Makes Urban Fantasy Unique?
Urban fantasy is a subgenre that combines the supernatural with the everyday world, typically set in a contemporary, real-world city or urban environment. Unlike traditional fantasy settings, which often take place in entirely fictional worlds or medieval landscapes, urban fantasy grounds its stories in modern cities, where magic and myth are hidden beneath the surface of ordinary life. In urban fantasy, magic exists just out of sight of most people, with mythical creatures, secret societies, and magical powers often coexisting alongside the daily routines of city dwellers.
Key elements of urban fantasy include:
- Magic: The world of urban fantasy is imbued with magical systems that can range from subtle, unseen powers to overt spells and enchantments.
- Mythical creatures: Common elements include vampires, werewolves, fae, witches, and other fantastical beings that live hidden among humans or operate in secret.
- Hidden worlds: Often, cities in urban fantasy novels have hidden dimensions, alternate realities, or secret magical communities that exist alongside the ordinary world. These hidden spaces can be accessible through portals, underground societies, or secret locations that only certain people can access.
Urban settings provide a particularly compelling backdrop for LGBTQIA+ stories due to the inherent diversity and complexity of city life. Cities are hubs of culture, different communities, and intersecting identities, making them the perfect place for characters of various backgrounds and sexual orientations to exist and find connections. The anonymity of a large urban environment can give queer individuals the freedom to express their identities in ways that might not be possible in smaller, more conservative spaces. In urban fantasy, cities are not just places where the story happens; they also act as characters in their own right, shaping the lives and journeys of LGBTQIA+ characters. These settings provide space for exploring themes of belonging, otherness, and finding one’s place in a world that can be both magical and hostile.
Moreover, urban fantasy allows authors to explore the intersection of real-world struggles with fantastical elements. LGBTQIA+ characters in urban fantasy often face the challenges of living in a world that does not always accept them, but these challenges are heightened or complicated by the magical world around them. The fantasy elements—such as shapeshifting, magical barriers, or hidden societies—can symbolize the very real struggles of LGBTQIA+ individuals dealing with discrimination, invisibility, or the quest for self-acceptance. At the same time, the magical elements provide an avenue for characters to overcome these challenges in unique and imaginative ways, offering a sense of empowerment and possibility that resonates deeply with readers.
Urban fantasy is therefore a genre where both the ordinary and the extraordinary collide, and it is within this blend that LGBTQIA+ stories can shine, providing new perspectives, rich emotional depth, and complex narratives that explore identity, love, and belonging in an ever-evolving world.
The Importance of LGBTQIA+ Representation in Fantasy
LGBTQIA+ representation in fantasy literature has come a long way over the years. For much of the genre’s history, queer characters were either absent, stereotyped, or relegated to secondary roles with little development. Early examples of LGBTQIA+ representation in fantasy were rare, and when they did appear, they were often marginalized or depicted as tragic figures. It wasn’t until the late 20th century that fantasy literature began to incorporate more meaningful and nuanced portrayals of LGBTQIA+ characters. Writers such as Marion Zimmer Bradley, with her Darkover series, and Samuel R. Delany, through works like Triton, helped pave the way for more diverse representation in speculative fiction.
As the cultural landscape shifted toward greater acceptance and understanding of LGBTQIA+ issues, fantasy literature began to reflect these changes. In the 21st century, authors like Sarah Waters, N.K. Jemisin, and Seanan McGuire began integrating LGBTQIA+ characters into their fantasy worlds in authentic, multifaceted ways. These characters are no longer defined solely by their sexual orientation or gender identity; instead, they are fully realized individuals with complex motivations, relationships, and growth arcs. The portrayal of LGBTQIA+ characters in urban fantasy, in particular, allows for an exploration of queer identities against a backdrop of modern society—where the fantastical and the everyday meet.
The value of diverse voices in shaping the future of the fantasy genre cannot be overstated. As more LGBTQIA+ authors contribute to urban fantasy, their lived experiences and unique perspectives infuse the genre with rich, new dimensions. Diverse voices broaden the scope of storytelling, ensuring that fantasy is not a monolithic genre but one that reflects the vast array of human experiences. This diversity enriches the genre by introducing new narrative possibilities, broadening the themes explored, and inviting readers from all walks of life to see themselves represented in the worlds they read about. The growth of LGBTQIA+ representation in fantasy also opens doors for other marginalized communities, creating a more inclusive and dynamic space for all readers.
In urban fantasy, LGBTQIA+ characters bring depth and authenticity to the world-building and character development. Cities, by their very nature, are diverse and multifaceted, providing the perfect setting for characters with different backgrounds, desires, and identities to interact. The challenges of living in an urban environment—dealing with societal expectations, navigating public spaces, and forging personal connections—are made all the more meaningful when explored through the lens of LGBTQIA+ experiences. These characters add layers of complexity to the urban fantasy genre, making it feel more reflective of real-world diversity while also embracing the fantastical elements that define the genre.
LGBTQIA+ characters in urban fantasy also offer an opportunity to challenge stereotypes and push boundaries. By placing queer characters at the center of magical worlds, authors can reframe traditional tropes, providing readers with stories that are not only imaginative but also thought-provoking. These characters embody resilience, empowerment, and self-discovery, resonating deeply with readers who may see reflections of their own journeys in these fantastical settings. In doing so, LGBTQIA+ characters in urban fantasy help to create a genre that is both inclusive and revolutionary, where love and identity can transcend boundaries—both magical and societal.
Top LGBTQIA+ Fantasy Novels Set in Urban Landscapes
The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin
Author: N.K. Jemisin Publication Year: 2020
Plot Summary: In The City We Became, New York City is personified through its five boroughs, each embodied by a human avatar. The novel follows these avatars as they battle a mysterious force threatening the city’s existence. Alongside this urban epic, Jemisin weaves in themes of identity, power, and belonging, as the avatars navigate their personal struggles while protecting their city.
LGBTQIA+ Themes & Urban Influence: Jemisin’s portrayal of LGBTQIA+ characters is central to the themes of identity and community. One of the key protagonists, Brooklyn, is a queer Black woman, whose journey reflects the intersectionality of race, gender, and sexuality within an urban context. The urban setting is essential, as New York itself becomes a character—its diversity, vibrancy, and struggles directly mirror the characters’ personal and collective battles. The city’s ever-changing landscape amplifies themes of belonging and resistance, offering a powerful backdrop for LGBTQIA+ representation.
The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gomez
Author: Jewelle Gomez Publication Year: 1991
Plot Summary: The Gilda Stories follows Gilda, an African-American lesbian vampire, who travels through time and across the country, searching for community and understanding. Set against the backdrop of multiple American cities, the novel explores Gilda’s evolution as a vampire and a woman navigating the intersections of her sexual identity, race, and immortal life.
LGBTQIA+ Themes & Urban Influence: At its core, The Gilda Stories is a novel about survival and finding one’s place in a world that is often hostile to queer and marginalized identities. Gilda’s queerness and the novel’s exploration of LGBTQIA+ themes—including love, identity, and self-empowerment—are integral to the narrative. The urban settings, including New Orleans and San Francisco, play a crucial role in framing the characters’ struggles and relationships, showcasing how cities can serve as both spaces of refuge and tension for queer individuals. The shifting landscapes of these cities mirror Gilda’s own transformation and search for community.
The Night Watch by Sergei Lukyanenko
Author: Sergei Lukyanenko Publication Year: 1998 (English translation 2006)
Plot Summary: Set in contemporary Moscow, The Night Watch follows Anton Gorodetsky, a “Night Watch” agent, who works to monitor the activities of Dark Others, supernatural beings who are part of the city’s hidden magical world. The series explores the tension between the forces of Light and Dark as Anton navigates the complexities of power, morality, and personal choice in a world where magic is secret and dangerous.
LGBTQIA+ Themes & Urban Influence: While The Night Watch is primarily focused on the battle between Light and Dark, it contains subtle explorations of LGBTQIA+ themes, particularly through its inclusion of characters whose relationships transcend traditional gender and sexual boundaries. Moscow, with its rich history and dynamic urban fabric, serves as an ideal setting for the story, as the city’s layered social and political history mirrors the complexities of its magical inhabitants’ lives. The urban environment shapes the way characters form alliances and deal with power dynamics, providing a backdrop for deeper, often covert explorations of identity and love.
Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
Author: Aiden Thomas Publication Year: 2020
Plot Summary: Cemetery Boys follows Yadriel, a trans Latinx boy who is determined to prove his abilities as a brujo, despite his family’s skepticism. After accidentally summoning the ghost of the school’s bad boy, Julian, Yadriel and Julian form an unlikely partnership to uncover the mystery of Julian’s death while Yadriel also navigates his own journey of self-acceptance.
LGBTQIA+ Themes & Urban Influence: The novel is a poignant exploration of transgender identity, familial expectations, and love. Yadriel’s struggles to be accepted for who he is by his family and community are heightened by his magical background, and his relationship with Julian adds a layer of romance and discovery. The urban backdrop, rich with Latinx cultural influences, plays a vital role in Yadriel’s sense of belonging and identity. The city’s complexity mirrors Yadriel’s own internal struggles, highlighting how urban spaces can shape—and sometimes challenge—queer experiences.
A Song for a New Day by Sarah Pinsker
Author: Sarah Pinsker Publication Year: 2020
Plot Summary: Set in a near-future America, A Song for a New Day explores a world where large-scale societal upheavals have led to both political instability and an increase in surveillance. The story follows several characters, including Lou, a queer woman navigating a post-pandemic world, as they form a band to protest the oppressive systems they live under.
LGBTQIA+ Themes & Urban Influence: The novel explores LGBTQIA+ themes of identity, resistance, and community through its diverse cast. Lou’s queerness is integral to her character development, as she uses her music to express her struggles with both the larger societal systems and her personal relationships. The urban environments—especially the cities Lou inhabits—serve as arenas for protest and change, showing how queer individuals in oppressive systems can find solidarity and hope in one another. The urban landscapes in A Song for a New Day shape the characters’ interactions and highlight the resilience of LGBTQIA+ communities in the face of adversity.
These novels showcase the unique ways in which LGBTQIA+ characters and themes are woven into the fabric of urban fantasy, offering readers not only engaging magical adventures but also rich, authentic explorations of identity, community, and resistance. Whether set in the vibrant streets of New York City or the mystical underworld of Moscow, urban settings provide the perfect backdrop for these stories, reflecting the complexities of modern life and the diverse experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Why These Novels Stand Out
The novels listed above stand out not only because of their captivating plots and imaginative world-building, but also due to their groundbreaking exploration of LGBTQIA+ themes within the context of urban fantasy. These books bring depth, complexity, and authenticity to the genre, creating memorable experiences for readers. Below are the key elements that make these novels stand out:
Character Development
One of the most significant aspects of these novels is their rich, multidimensional character development. In The City We Became, N.K. Jemisin brings together five unique characters, each representing one of New York City’s boroughs, and imbues them with personal struggles, desires, and growth arcs that resonate deeply with readers. Each character’s journey of self-discovery, particularly with regard to their queer identities, is layered and relatable. Similarly, in Cemetery Boys, Yadriel’s path toward self-acceptance as a trans boy, alongside his quest for family approval, offers a powerful and heartfelt narrative that tackles the intersection of LGBTQIA+ and cultural identity.
In The Gilda Stories, Gilda’s centuries-long transformation is explored with an emphasis on her emotional and sexual growth, giving readers a nuanced look at queer identity over time. The character-driven nature of these stories allows the LGBTQIA+ themes to evolve naturally within the context of the plot, making the characters’ experiences feel authentic and organic. The characters in these novels are not defined by their queerness alone; they are fully realized individuals with goals, flaws, and complexities.
World-Building
Urban fantasy, by definition, thrives on intricate and immersive world-building, and the novels highlighted here excel in creating rich, believable settings. In The Night Watch, Sergei Lukyanenko crafts a hidden supernatural world within the streets of Moscow, blending the mundane and the magical in ways that feel both natural and compelling. The city itself—its politics, history, and structure—becomes an active participant in the narrative, influencing the actions and decisions of the characters.
In A Song for a New Day, Sarah Pinsker’s portrayal of a near-future America, shaped by surveillance and societal upheavals, not only serves as a setting for the characters’ musical protest but also acts as a powerful metaphor for contemporary issues surrounding privacy, freedom, and resistance. The urban environments in these novels are not mere backdrops; they are living, breathing entities that influence the story and reflect the internal struggles of the characters.
Plot and Storytelling
These novels push the boundaries of traditional urban fantasy storytelling by seamlessly weaving LGBTQIA+ themes into their plots without making them the sole focus of the narrative. Instead of being defined by their queerness, the LGBTQIA+ characters exist within complex, evolving storylines that explore broader themes such as power, identity, and survival. This approach not only makes the books more relatable to LGBTQIA+ readers but also expands the genre for a wider audience.
For instance, in The City We Became, the narrative weaves political, social, and supernatural elements into an exciting and intricate plot that keeps readers engaged. The characters’ journeys—both in terms of their personal growth and their fight to protect their city—are compelling and full of twists. The tension between the characters’ need to embrace their individual identities and the larger fight for a collective cause is mirrored in their relationships with one another, creating a dynamic narrative that goes beyond typical urban fantasy tropes.
Breaking Barriers in LGBTQIA+ Representation
These novels break barriers in both LGBTQIA+ representation and urban fantasy storytelling by showcasing diverse queer identities in multifaceted and complex ways. Rather than relying on stereotypical portrayals of LGBTQIA+ characters, these authors provide a range of characters who embody different aspects of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In Cemetery Boys, Yadriel’s experience as a trans Latinx character is central to the plot, highlighting the challenges faced by trans individuals while also celebrating their strength and resilience. Similarly, The Gilda Stories offers a deep exploration of gender and sexuality through the lens of a queer woman’s journey across time, challenging the conventions of both gender and narrative structure.
These novels refuse to present queer identities as isolated or secondary to the plot; instead, they weave LGBTQIA+ themes into the fabric of the story, demonstrating that these identities are as complex and important as any other. By breaking away from traditional tropes, the authors provide a refreshing, inclusive take on urban fantasy that reflects the realities of contemporary life.
Reflecting the Diversity Within the LGBTQIA+ Spectrum
Perhaps one of the most striking features of these novels is the diversity within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. From trans, bisexual, and queer characters in Cemetery Boys to non-binary and gay characters in The City We Became, these novels represent the broad and varied spectrum of queer identities. By showcasing characters who are not one-dimensional or defined by their queerness alone, these stories offer readers a more nuanced and inclusive portrayal of LGBTQIA+ individuals.
The characters’ experiences are shaped by a variety of factors, including their cultural backgrounds, personal histories, and relationships. In The Gilda Stories, for example, Gilda’s race, gender, and sexuality all intersect to create a character whose identity evolves in complex ways over time. The inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters from diverse backgrounds helps to ensure that readers from all walks of life can see themselves reflected in these fantastical worlds.
These novels stand out not just for their magical worlds and complex plots, but for their groundbreaking portrayal of LGBTQIA+ identities within urban fantasy settings. Through compelling character development, immersive world-building, and diverse, multifaceted storytelling, they push the boundaries of both the fantasy genre and LGBTQIA+ representation. By embracing the diversity of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, they offer readers a chance to experience narratives that are not only imaginative and thrilling but also deeply resonant and inclusive. These books serve as both a celebration of queer identity and a testament to the power of storytelling to break down barriers and create spaces where everyone can belong.
Other Notable LGBTQIA+ Fantasy Novels to Explore
While the novels highlighted so far offer a fantastic entry point into the world of LGBTQIA+ urban fantasy, there is a wealth of other stories worth exploring within the genre. These books provide a broader perspective on queer experiences, offering unique twists on urban fantasy and diverse representations of LGBTQIA+ characters. Here are a few additional titles to check out:
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
In this charming, heartwarming novel, Linus Baker, a by-the-book government worker, is sent on a mission to evaluate a group of magical children living in an isolated orphanage. The story beautifully blends fantasy, found family, and LGBTQIA+ romance in a whimsical, almost fairy-tale-like setting. While not strictly set in an urban environment, the book offers a wonderful exploration of queer relationships and acceptance in a magical world, making it a must-read for fans of inclusive fantasy.
Witchmark by C.L. Polk
Set in a magical, alternate version of early 20th-century England, Witchmark follows Miles Singer, a doctor with magical abilities, and his growing relationship with Tristan, a mysterious man with his own magical secrets. This novel is a delightful mix of mystery, magic, and romance, with an intriguing plot and a strong focus on LGBTQIA+ relationships. The world-building is richly detailed, and the complex characters offer a nuanced exploration of love and identity in a magical society.
The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune
For those interested in superhero-themed urban fantasy, The Extraordinaries offers a fun, fresh take. The story revolves around Nick Bellamy, a teenage boy with a crush on his favorite superhero, and his journey to navigate his feelings in a world filled with powerful beings. This series is filled with LGBTQIA+ characters, humor, and heart, and it explores themes of heroism, self-acceptance, and love with a lighthearted yet impactful touch.
Vicious by V.E. Schwab
In this dark, gritty urban fantasy, two college friends, Victor Vale and Eli Ever, gain superpowers under extreme circumstances. Their rivalry turns into an epic battle, and the complex, morally grey characters at the center of the story break the mold of traditional superhero narratives. Vicious introduces LGBTQIA+ characters subtly, providing a refreshing take on queer representation in a world where power, ambition, and love are intertwined. Schwab’s writing is sharp and addictive, making this a thrilling, unconventional urban fantasy.
The Queer Principles of Kit Webb by Cat Sebastian
Set in an alternate historical period with elements of fantasy, this novel follows Kit Webb, a retired highwayman who gets drawn back into the world of crime by a young nobleman named Percy. The romance between Kit and Percy unfolds against a backdrop of intrigue, magic, and social upheaval. The dynamic between the characters is sweet and genuine, with a focus on LGBTQIA+ romance and themes of love, loyalty, and redemption.
Encouragement to Explore Different Perspectives in Urban Fantasy
The diversity of LGBTQIA+ representation in urban fantasy novels continues to grow, and it’s an exciting time for readers to explore these narratives. From the magical streets of cities like New York to hidden worlds within familiar urban landscapes, these books offer a broad range of queer experiences that are as diverse as the cities themselves. Each story brings its own unique perspective to the genre, whether it’s the exploration of gender identity, navigating relationships in magical worlds, or tackling real-world struggles through the lens of fantasy.
By seeking out books that push boundaries and offer fresh, inclusive perspectives, readers can deepen their understanding of the multifaceted LGBTQIA+ experience while enjoying the imaginative and captivating nature of urban fantasy. Whether you’re drawn to lighthearted romance, thrilling adventures, or complex world-building, there is a wealth of LGBTQIA+ urban fantasy novels waiting for you to discover and enjoy. Keep exploring—there are always more stories to tell and more worlds to uncover!
Conclusion
The urban landscape has proven to be a perfect backdrop for the diverse, complex narratives found in LGBTQIA+ fantasy. Urban fantasy allows for the seamless blending of the magical and the mundane, and cities, with their layers of history, culture, and hidden spaces, serve as an ideal setting for characters who are navigating not only fantastical realms but also their own identities and relationships. These books show how urban environments can amplify the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals, providing both a literal and metaphorical space where characters can grow, confront challenges, and explore their authentic selves.
As we’ve seen in the novels explored here, continued representation in fantasy genres is crucial. LGBTQIA+ characters and themes should not be relegated to niche subplots or stereotypes, but rather be integrated into the heart of the story, where they can resonate with readers on a deeper level. Representation enriches storytelling, making fantasy worlds more inclusive and reflective of the diversity in our real world. The more LGBTQIA+ characters are woven into the fabric of urban fantasy, the more these stories can empower readers and inspire new generations of writers to create narratives where everyone can see themselves.
So, whether you’re a longtime fan of urban fantasy or just beginning to explore this genre, we encourage you to dive into the books listed here. Each one offers a unique take on the intersection of magic, identity, and love, and you’ll be transported to worlds that challenge, delight, and inspire. We also invite you to share your own recommendations for LGBTQIA+ urban fantasy novels—there’s always more to discover, and the more voices we bring into the conversation, the richer the genre becomes. Keep reading, exploring, and supporting diverse voices in fantasy!
