Dive into the electrifying world of Mercedes Lackey’s Hunter series, where magic, monsters, and a fearless teen heroine collide in a post-apocalyptic thrill ride! This young adult blend of futuristic urban fantasy and dystopian adventure follows Joyeaux Charmand, a Hunter with a pack of magical hounds, as she battles otherworldly creatures and uncovers dark conspiracies in Apex City. With its pulse-pounding action and richly crafted world, Hunter is a hidden gem for fans of The Hunger Games and Red Queen.
Picture a world 250 years after the Diseray, a cataclysm that tore open rifts to the Otherworld, unleashing mythological beasts and nightmarish monsters. Joy, a 16-year-old prodigy, leaves her secretive mountain monastery to protect Apex City’s citizens, only to find fame, danger, and secrets lurking behind every wall. Ready to join her hunt?
How Hunter Began
Mercedes Lackey, a fantasy legend with over 100 novels, including the beloved Valdemar series, crafted Hunter as her bold leap into YA dystopian fiction. Published by Disney-Hyperion starting in 2015, the series was inspired by Lackey’s knack for blending mythology with high-stakes adventure. She wove a futuristic world where magic and technology clash, drawing on her love for strong heroines and complex societies. The result? A trilogy that feels fresh yet unmistakably Lackey, packed with her signature world-building finesse.
The Heart of Hunter
The Hunter series spans three gripping books: Hunter (2015), Elite (2016), and Apex (2017). In Hunter, Joy arrives in Apex City, discovering her battles are televised for fame while she uncovers a sinister plot threatening the city’s safety. Elite ramps up the stakes as Joy joins an elite Hunter unit, facing deadlier Othersiders and a traitor in their midst. Apex delivers a heart-pounding finale, with Joy waging war against a growing Otherworld threat and navigating political intrigue to save Apex.
Themes of duty, loyalty, and sacrifice pulse through the series, set against a dystopian backdrop where propaganda and surveillance loom large. Joy’s bond with her magical Hounds—otherworldly allies who fight alongside Hunters—adds a unique twist, blending sword-and-sorcery with sci-fi flair. The magic system, while simple (relying on stamina and Hound-shared mana), supports the fast-paced narrative. Lackey’s world, with its mix of futuristic tech and mythological creatures, feels vivid, though some fans note the slow start in Hunter gives way to addictive action.
Why Hunter Resonates
The Hunter series carved a niche in YA fantasy by blending dystopian tension with Lackey’s mythic storytelling. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Reddit praise its Pokémon-meets-Hunger Games vibe, with Joy’s kick-butt attitude and Hound companions stealing the show. While not as iconic as Lackey’s Valdemar saga, the trilogy’s strong female lead and conspiratorial plotlines appeal to readers craving action and intrigue. Its cult following continues to champion its unique flavor, making it a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts seeking an under-the-radar adventure.
- About Hunter
- Publication Years: 2015–2017
- Number of Books: 3 (Hunter, Elite, Apex)
- Genre: YA Futuristic Urban Fantasy, Dystopian
- Author: Mercedes Lackey
Grab Hunter and plunge into a world where magic meets mayhem! Whether you’re a Lackey veteran or a newcomer, Joy’s battle against monsters and conspiracies will keep you hooked. Let the hunt begin!