The book actually feels quite contemporary but there were also some very historical elements (which obviously made a lot more sense when I figured out it was fantasy). After becoming aware of this fact, I started to enjoy the setting a little bit less, not because it wasn’t good, but because I didn’t get a good sense of when this book was set.

Because of my lack of knowledge, I actually thought that the novel was set in real places in Africa and was completely unaware that this was a fantasy or made-up setting. I don’t know very much about African culture or geography and I was immediately intrigued. The first thing that I noticed about this book was the rich African-inspired setting. Unicorn Tracks is a short fantasy read with lots of mythical, magical creatures, including unicorns! It’s a story of female friendship/romance and adventure. I’ve never read a YA novel that’s set in Africa or an African-inspired fantasy setting and I’m glad that Unicorn Tracks includes just that. Together, they must find a way to protect the creatures Kara adores while resisting the love they know they can never indulge. During their research, they discover a conspiracy by a group of poachers to capture the Unicorns and exploit their supernatural strength to build a railway. The young women are drawn to each other, despite that fact that Kara is betrothed. Harving and his daughter, Kara, through the wilderness as they study unicorns. Surrounding herself with nature and the mystical animals inhabiting the savannah not only allows Mnemba’s tracking skills to shine, it helps her to hide from the terrible memories that haunt her. Genres: Fantasy, LGBT, Romance, Young AdultĪmazon | Book Depository | Publisher | Angus & RobertsonĪfter a savage attack drives her from her home, sixteen-year-old Mnemba finds a place in her cousin Tumelo’s successful safari business, where she quickly excels as a guide. Published by Harmony Ink Press on April 21st 2016

Unicorn Tracks by Julia Ember