The fine line between "Chick Lit" and Medieval Fantasy

I'm currently reading Kushiel's Chosen (Kushiel's Legacy, #2), by Jacqueline Carey. It's the second book in "Phèdre's Trilogy," named for the main character, Phèdre, a courtesan in the main city of Tere d'Ange, a country more-or-less where France is located in reality. If you're not familiar with Carey's work, check out my review of the first book, Kushiel's Dart.

When I posted an update to Twitter/Facebook via Goodreads, a friend remarked that she'd never known a guy to read Carey's books. This started me thinking about the line between what I call "chick lit," such as romance novels, and other genres.

Carey's work caught my eye because it's good medieval fantasy, set in an alternate Europe that is well thought-out. She also put a lot of thought into the religion of her world, with lots of real-world similarities woven together with interesting angelic twists. I think what surprised my friend is that the series focuses on a courtesan, so much of the action deals with her profession and personal feelings.

Still, I see the books as more medieval fantasy than romance. Like Laura Resnick's "Esther Diamond" novels, Carey's Phedre is a fantasy heroine first.

If you've read Carey, I'd be interested in hearing your thoughts.