She and Renaldo fall instantly in love and swear to marry, but her father has already promised her in marriage to Sir Wulfe, the resident wizard of Querel, a kingdom torn by a civil war. Leonie, who feels something evil lurks within the wizard, sends a message to Renaldo. Then, on a rare trip into town, Leonie learns that she possesses "wild" magic, inherited from her dead mother. The wild magic makes everyone fall in love with her at first sight.

Sir Wulfe is furious upon learning of the secret message. He sends Renaldo away in a whirlwind - a journey that takes the prince deep into a fight between the kingdoms of Alonzo and Hidalgo. The evil wizard then transports Leonie to his home, intent on carrying out their marriage.

Prince Sylvain, Renaldo’s brother, arrives at Castle Veil, determined to find his brother. Instead, he finds Ann and her father, whom Sir Wulfe has turned into a snake. He realizes his mission is to protect Ann, save her sister from Sir Wulfe, and find his brother.

Renaldo, meanwhile, is befriended by a mouse, a once powerful magician, who pledges his cause to Renaldo. Leonie, now a prisoner, is torn by the realization that Renaldo might love her only because he has fallen under the wild magic spell.

What follows is a delightful, enticing tale of romance, vengeance, and hope for true love. A Charm for a Unicorn is not a common fairy tale, for although it has a wicked magician, the themes carry into a sense of duty to country and love of family. The characters are true to life, with heartfelt emotions, and the mouse provides a delightful comedic element.

Jennifer Macaire has written a thoroughly entertaining fantasy, one I recommend to young and old alike.