A Horn of Onyx by Meredith R. Lyons is a dark, action-driven fantasy that blends romance, war, and morally complex choices in a brutal, imaginative world. Featuring a fiercely independent female protagonist, dangerous magic, and battle-hardened unicorns that are anything but gentle, this sequel delivers high stakes, emotional depth, and unpredictable twists. Even without having read the first book in the series, I found myself fully invested in Imogen’s journey, her bond with Wells, and the escalating conflict threatening to tear multiple courts apart.
About the Book: A Horn of Onyx
Imogen has successfully won her freedom, escaping the Molnairian palace and rescuing Wells and his soldiers from annihilation. But as her knoma (magic) grows stronger, she learns that raw power alone isn’t enough to win a war.
As Imogen grapples with the chaos of battle, and a bloodthirsty unicorn named Prism, the consequences of her escape continue to follow her. Drawn into the ruthless political games of two opposing courts, she finds herself dangerously outmatched, longing only for a peaceful life with her mate. But if she can’t curb her impulsiveness and adapt to life in the army, she may find herself trapped between not one, but two warring kings.
BookHookup Review: A Horn of Onyx
Imogen is a compelling protagonist—strong, independent, deeply flawed, and refreshingly human. What sets her apart is her origin: she’s a modern woman from Earth who was kidnapped, transported to another planet, and forcibly “turned” into one of its people. That dual identity adds emotional weight to every decision she makes in a world defined by war, power struggles, and survival.
The relationship between Imogen and her bonded mate, Wells, is the emotional core of the story and easily my favorite aspect. Their connection feels earned, layered, and tested by circumstances beyond their control. The supporting cast is equally engaging, and there is one antagonist in particular that readers will absolutely loathe, always a sign of effective characterization.
Lyons balances dark fantasy elements with moments of humor and tenderness, keeping the story from becoming overwhelming despite its intensity. And readers should set aside any expectations of gentle, sparkly unicorns. These creatures are magical, yes, but also dangerous, high-maintenance, and fiercely selective. Once they accept a rider, however, they become loyal and formidable partners in battle, adding a unique and thrilling dimension to the story.
While I didn’t read the first book in the series before starting this one, and initially struggled a bit with the prologue due to unfamiliar names and concepts, those concerns quickly faded. The story pulled me in completely, and by the end, I was fully invested and eager to go back and read book one.
With its unpredictable plot, strong character relationships, and vivid action, A Horn of Onyx feels fresh and cinematic. I could easily see it adapted into an action-packed fantasy romance film.
Similar Books You Might Enjoy
If you enjoyed A Horn of Onyx, you might like these fantasy reads featuring strong heroines and high-stakes worlds:
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
A romantic fantasy filled with dangerous magic, political intrigue, and a heroine discovering her true power in a world that wants to control her.
The Dryad Storm by Laurie Forest
Book 5 of The Black Witch Chronicles
A sweeping fantasy finale featuring war, political power struggles, morally complex choices, and a heroine forced to balance love, loyalty, and survival. Like A Horn of Onyx, this novel centers on a strong, evolving female protagonist navigating brutal conflicts, shifting alliances, and the cost of power in a richly built world.
BookHookup Note
BookHookup focuses on clean fiction across genres including fantasy, suspense, mystery, and romantic adventure. A Horn of Onyx includes language, romantic elements, and darker themes related to war and violence. While not explicit, the content falls outside the “clean” category.
Readers comfortable with PG-13–level language and sexual content may enjoy this dark fantasy featuring a strong female lead, romantic elements, brutal battles, and unique magical creatures.
ARC received from Black Phoenix Book Tours. No compensation was received; all thoughts are my own. Some links in this post may be affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.
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I focus on clean fiction across genres, historical romance, fantasy, suspense, crime, children’s, and more. When books include content that may not be suitable for all readers, I provide clear disclaimers so you can choose wisely.
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