Urban Fiction Romance Books: A Guide to the Genre

Ya girl is still reading, and I’m so proud of myself. Books are a great escape from real life. There is no better feeling than a cold house, a cozy blanket, and a good book; throw in a glass of wine, and ya girl is cooking!!

Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite genres to read – urban fiction romance books, which are a subgenre of romance novels that focus on the lives and loves of characters living in urban settings, aka black books! These books often explore themes of love, relationships, and social issues. They typically feature strong, independent female protagonists and alpha male love interests, but that can change! 

What are the characteristics of urban fiction romance books?

Urban fiction romance books typically have the following characteristics:

  • Setting: Urban fiction romance books are set in urban areas, such as New York City, Los Angeles, or Chicago.

  • Characters: The protagonists of urban fiction romance books are typically strong, independent women who are looking for love on their own terms. The love interests are often alpha males who are successful in their careers and protective of their loved ones.

  • Themes: Urban fiction romance books often explore themes of love, relationships, and social issues. These books may deal with issues such as poverty, violence, and racism.

  • Writing style: Urban fiction romance books are typically written in a fast-paced, action-packed style. The dialogue is often sharp and witty, and the characters are often larger than life.

What are some popular urban fiction romance books?

Some popular urban fiction romance books include:

Why are urban fiction romance books so popular?

Urban fiction romance books are popular because they offer readers a chance to escape into a world of passion, drama, and excitement. I like to think of these books as my “gangster fix” : it's a crime, mafia, and romance all wrapped into one.  These books feature strong, relatable characters who are dealing with real-world issues, and they offer readers a glimpse into a different way of life.

If you're looking for a new genre of romance to read, urban fiction romance books are a great option. If you want to skip out on the drugs, crime, and drama, then I’d suggest looking into some black romance, and here are my top picks: