The Unicorn Hunters

The Unicorn Hunters by Katherine Arden

In this sweeping historical fantasy from the New York Times bestselling author of The Bear and the Nightingale, a young duchess fights to protect her kingdom, her freedom, and the future of her people against the growing power of France. Inspired by the real life of Anne of Brittany, this richly imagined novel blends political intrigue, forbidden alliances, ancient magic, and haunting folklore into an unforgettable tale of courage and survival.

After French forces invade Brittany and drive her father to his death, Anne becomes the sovereign duchess of an occupied realm. Still young but fiercely determined, she refuses to surrender her lands—or herself—to the French king through a political marriage designed to erase Brittany’s independence forever. Desperate to outmaneuver her enemies, Anne devises a dangerous plan: a secret marriage to one of France’s greatest rivals that could secure her throne and alter the balance of power across Europe.

To conceal the betrothal from rival courts and powerful diviners, Anne stages a grand unicorn hunt in the legendary forest of Brocéliande, once home to Merlin and the lost faerie queen. Though magic has nearly vanished from the world, the ancient forest still holds mysteries of its own, including a strange resistance to divination that makes Anne’s deception possible—or so she believes. As hidden forces awaken within the woods, Anne discovers that magic, ambition, and destiny are more deeply entwined than she ever imagined.

Lush, atmospheric, and filled with courtly intrigue, romance, and enchantment, this epic fantasy reimagines medieval history through the lens of myth and legend. Perfect for fans of Naomi Novik, Katherine Arden’s Winternight Trilogy, and immersive historical fantasy with strong heroines and fairy-tale magic.

This stunning hardcover edition also features an illustrated jacket, a foil-stamped cover, and beautifully designed full-color endpapers.