The Unicorn Hunters by Katherine Arden was a beautiful book. It starts off leaning more historical with court/political drama than fantasy, and gradually moves into a story of enchanting legend. It grows to be a magical and romantic story. The writing style is lovely.
This historical fantasy brings an about an alternate version of history, which really makes me think about why fantasy is a form of “speculative” fiction. I’m actually reminded of the Lady Janie and Mary books (starting with My Lady Jane), which are a series of alternative historical fantasy YA books. They are favorites of mine. The tone of the Lady Janie books is more humorous, so the style is quite different from The Unicorn Hunters, but they have a common theme; to take a real woman from history and “improve” her story(and add fantasy!).
Seasonal Vibe: spring/summer
Travel Location: Brittany, France, Austria
Historical Time: 1490
Genres: Historical, Fantasy
Read: June 19-July 1, 2026
Format: Hardcover(library book) and audiobook
347 pages • 🎧 Great Audiobook
