Ah, wolf shifters. The timeless creatures that have captured our imaginations for centuries. From Little Red Riding Hood to Twilight, these lupine beasts have always been a staple in fantasy fiction. But in recent years, the wolf shifter sub-genre has taken a turn for the urban, introducing us to a new breed of alpha males (and females) who roam the concrete jungles instead of the forest. Welcome to the world of NA (New Adult) wolf shifter urban fantasy books.
First things first, what exactly is NA fiction? Well, it’s a sub-genre of young adult fiction that is specifically geared towards the 18-25 age group. This demographic is typically known for its tumultuous life changes, from the end of high school to the beginning of college, from graduation to the job market, from innocence to experience. And what better way to explore these complex emotions than with a side of werewolf?
NA wolf shifter urban fantasy books offer a unique perspective on the classic shifter story. Instead of just being a simple love triangle between a human, a werewolf, and a vampire (looking at you Twilight), these books delve deeper into the complexities of life as a supernatural being. The characters are no longer just heartthrobs, they’re fully fleshed-out individuals with real-world problems.
For example, take the popular series, Mercy Thompson by Patricia Briggs. The titular character is a shapeshifting mechanic who finds herself embroiled in a world of werewolves, vampires, and fae. But instead of just fighting for her life and her heart, Mercy also has to navigate the complicated politics of the supernatural community and deal with the everyday struggles of being a single mother.
Another series that takes a more nuanced approach is the Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews. The protagonist, Kate, is a shapeshifting mercenary who finds herself caught up in a war between magic and technology in a post-apocalyptic Atlanta. The series explores the concept of power and how it affects relationships, both romantic and otherwise.
Then there is the Academy of Shifters series by Marisa Claire. This story fills the void of young shifters trying to deal with life in a paranormal school setting. The snark and wit from this series stands out and stands alone.
These books aren’t just about love triangles and battles between good and evil, they’re about the struggles of young adulthood, wrapped in a fantastical package. Whether it’s finding your place in the world, dealing with complicated family dynamics, or facing your own personal demons, NA wolf shifter urban fantasy books have it all.
Of course, not all NA wolf shifter urban fantasy books are created equal. While some are masterpieces of genre-blending, others are nothing more than Twilight rip-offs with werewolves instead of vampires. But, let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good trashy paranormal romance every once in a while?
For those looking for a more tongue-in-cheek take on the genre, there’s the “Alpha and Omega” series by Patricia Briggs. The series follows the antics of Anna, a skilled mechanic, and Charles, a powerful Alpha werewolf, as they navigate the challenges of life as a shapeshifting couple. The books are filled with humor, action, and a healthy dose of romance, making them the perfect guilty pleasure read.
But it’s not just about the books, it’s about the community. NA wolf shifter urban fantasy has a dedicated following, with passionate fans who are eager to discuss and dissect every aspect of their favorite series. From fan fiction to role-playing games, these books have sparked a whole subculture of supernatural enthusiasts.
Now, get your read on!
