The Princess and the Hound

The Princess and the Hound by Mette Ivie Harrison
In recent times, animal magic has been outlawed from Prince George's kingdom and other surrounding kingdoms. Those with animal magic are persecuted and sometimes killed. Unbeknownst to his kingdom, Prince George and his mother, the queen, both have animal magic and must fight to keep it hidden and in check in front of their subjects. Denying the animal magic can make them sick, so life is a constant balancing act.

When George is betrothed to Princess Beatrice of a rival kingdom, he fears what marriage might bring and the discovery of his secret. His fears are assuaged when he meets the princess and her hound companion. While it is obvious that she cannot speak to her hound, the two have an incredible bond. George finds himself obsessed with the connection between the princess and her hound and comes to better understand his own magic because of them.

Incredibly well-written and original, this fantasy love story is full of twists and surprises.