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The Huntsman's Heart: A Retelling of Snow White

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Princess Snow and Prince Henri couldn’t be any more different.

Their kingdoms and families have been at enmity for a thousand years.

But when a new dark queen rises, they have little choice but to join forces.

If they don’t, not only will their kingdoms fall…but the entire western realm.

Princess Snow has been sheltered since she was born, hidden away in a secret garden at her terrified father’s behest. But when her father dies, and her older brother grants her the freedom of which she’s always dreamed, she feels as though the world is finally hers. Just as it seems Snow’s life is about to begin, however, her brother’s new wife reveals a heart full of jealousy and fear. Barely escaping the castle alive, Snow stumbles upon a group of kind-hearted mountain men…and the aggravatingly handsome prince who claims her brother asked him to help find her.

Crown Prince Henri Fortier of Destin had no intentions of journeying to the heart of his enemy’s land. But when the newly crowned king of Tumen sends word, begging for help to find his missing sister, Henri goes in hopes of making peace with the new king. What he finds, however, is not what he expected.

The princess is indeed alive, but she won’t remain so if the king’s new wife has her way. And with the new queen’s blossoming powers, Henri knows he must intervene, not only for the princess’s sake, but for the entire realm. Intervening would be much easier, however, if the princess didn’t resent him so much. Which makes it even more confusing, when he finds himself drawn to her…and wonders whether she’s secretly drawn to him, as well.

None of that will matter, however, if the evil queen has her way. If these two unlikely allies can’t stop her, a shadow of misery and oppression will overtake everyone they love.

If you want the magic of Narnia and the romance of fairy tales, read this clean fantasy retelling of Snow White today to escape into the Classical Kingdoms Collection, a series of clean fantasy fairy tale retellings with magical mystery, clean, passionate romance, and heroic happily-ever-afters.

Author’s The Huntsman’s Heart is about the same royal family from Beauty Beheld, but it can be read as a standalone novel.

368 pages, Paperback

Published August 17, 2024

32 people are currently reading
94 people want to read

About the author

Brittany Fichter

72 books605 followers
Brittany lives with her Prince Charming, their little fairy, and their tiny prince in a decently clean castle in whatever kingdom the Air Force has most recently placed them. When she's not writing, Brittany can be found chasing her kids around with a DSLR or belting it in the church choir. You can find more of her work at her website BrittanyFichterFiction.com.

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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Coralie.
702 reviews133 followers
October 11, 2024
Brittany Fichter returns to the Classical Kingdoms with the long-awaited Henri story. Somehow it feels fitting that Henri is the huntsman in a Snow White story.

Honestly, I was a little surprised we opened the story from Snow's POV, but I was very glad the story alternated to Henri's POV, too. I've anticipated Henri's story and am so glad he finally got his own adventure. I love the Fortiers and reading this book makes me want to reread the Beauty and the Beast trilogy. I also really enjoyed Henri's portion of the Cinderella story. All of his cameos and parts lead up to this Snow White adventure.

I love Henri's character and seeing him grow into his own. I love that he's so much like his father, though he doubts himself and his place in the world. His heart is so sweet and kind and it just makes me melt. His integrity and willingness to follow the Fortress, even into enemy territory, shows such trust. Noble characters are hard to find in modern literature, but Henri shines a light as a hero worth reading about and looking up to.

Snow felt like a pretty typical portrayal of the character: sweet, dainty, and innocent. But Fichter builds a backstory and gives a reason that explains Snow's personality. In fact, one of my favorite things about this series is the way Fichter is able to seamlessly fold fairy tales into her world. She makes the stories feel as if they were made for her world. Each of the well-known fairy tale elements are expertly woven into the story. I admire how natural the animals, the apple, and the sleeping death meld with the Classical Kingdom world.

And yet, while we know the Snow White plot, Fichter still manages to make it her own. Her twist on the evil queen not only fits into her world super well, but it was a refreshing take on a role that doesn't change much in retellings. I also LOVED the mountain men! The take on the dwarves and cottage was a lot of fun and the relationship of these mountain men with Snow was delightful. Snow's older brother, Deniz was an interesting character, too. At first, I wasn't quite sure what to make of him, but by the end of the story, I was curious to see if he had a story all his own. Who knows? Maybe someday! And I did also wonder about her father's story, too.

I liked the magic elements and how we got to see more of the gifted people in Snow's kingdom. I hope we get to see more stories that explore those gifts. And of course, the cameos are always one of the best parts, too! I also really enjoyed the light themes of found family in this story. They warmed my heart! Fichter's epic fantasy encourages me and I love how it always points toward hope and truth.

Content: some fantasy violence, clean romance, no swearing. Probably suitable to early teens.
Profile Image for Katherine Perry.
Author 2 books51 followers
November 25, 2025
Ok, so it has been more than several months since I finished this book. So instead of complete review, I am going to write a brief overview of my thoughts from my notes:

- An interesting take to the Snow White fairytale.
- Henri was my favorite character.
- It was a creative concept.
- I now want to read the Before Beauty trilogy. 😄
Profile Image for Kimberly Perry.
80 reviews5 followers
April 13, 2025
*2.5
The story did follow the fairy tale closely, but there were plot holes that didn't quite do the story justice. The book was not a 'stand-alone' in regards to the fact that you couldn't read it without first reading other books in the collection. The storyline would sometimes reference events and people from other books in the Classical Kingdoms Collection without a lot of explanation, leaving the reader puzzled and lost. This is the first book I've read in the series, so needless to say, I was very lost at times. When you mix that in with existing plot holes (some being very major holes), and a muddy middle, you find yourself asking, "Wait...what? What is going on? What are they talking about?" Overall, an interesting concept, but could've used another round of edits.

Profile Image for Kjb.
98 reviews1 follower
October 4, 2024
3,5stars
It was a sweet story. I don't think it did Henri justice, though.. the "gifts" were often vague and I still don't really understand Snow's gift - maybe because BF didn't or couldn't really put it in words or had a name for it. I was sad, we didn't get to know Henri's fusion of his two gift-parts. And as mighty as he obviously is, there wasn't an enemy who was giving him much trouble - there wasn't a "worthy enemy". I really don't have any problems at all with falling head over heels for a person, but Snow and Henri's Lovestory seemed to be more than fast and a little too dependent on their good looks... (Also Snow's character is a little too perfect...).
BFs writing style is captivating as always and so the reading was a pleasure in and of itself.
I really loved the parts where the animals were involved.
I liked Deniz - cool gift.
I like, that I get to follow Ever's and Isa's lives since 12 books now and many other MCs from the other books!
Gavin is a veeery interesting character imo, I'd love to read his story.
Genny seems pretty cliché to me -I imagine her story could be interesting, but at the same time it could end up like every "sunshine-character"-story - but I know BF has more depth than that and that she's capable of writing surprising stories as well as feel-good-stories.
This one was more on the feel-good-but-not-very-deep-and/or- exciting - side, but nevertheless and all in all it was a good book.
Profile Image for Kim .
1,158 reviews19 followers
November 30, 2024
This wasn't as easy to read, for me, as most of Brittany's books are. There were some rather dark moments and one especially where I actually put the book down until the next day because I didn't want to see what was going to happen! As it turns out, what I thought would happen didn't and I was relieved! Overall, another great read, and a clean one. If you know the story of Snow White, this one follows pretty closely.
834 reviews1 follower
October 19, 2024
This book is okay, Everything about this book is okay.
Profile Image for DJWman.
181 reviews3 followers
September 30, 2024
"The Huntsman’s Heart" by Brittany Fichter is a fresh and captivating retelling of Snow White, set in the immersive world of the Classical Kingdoms series. This 12th installment brings a unique twist to the beloved fairytale, blending romance, action, and a struggle against dark forces. The story focuses on two unlikely allies: Princess Snow of Tumen and Crown Prince Henri of Destin, whose kingdoms have been enemies for centuries. When a rising dark queen threatens their lands, they must put aside their differences to protect everything they love.

Princess Snow has lived a sheltered life, hidden away in a secret garden by her overprotective father. When he dies, and her brother grants her long-desired freedom, Snow's life finally seems to begin. However, this freedom is short-lived as her brother's new wife, consumed by jealousy, forces Snow to flee. Her escape leads her to a group of kind mountain men—and Prince Henri, who was sent by her brother to find her. Henri, who never intended to venture into enemy territory, discovers that Snow’s life is in immediate danger and decides to intervene, even as the two of them struggle with their own complicated feelings.

The chemistry between Snow and Henri is one of the book’s highlights. Their romance develops slowly and sweetly, evolving from distrust and resentment to a mutual respect and affection as they fight side by side. Snow’s journey from a naive but intelligent young woman learning to stand on her own is compelling, and her determination to fight against the evil queen makes her a strong heroine.

It was also wonderful to see Henri get his own story after glimpsing his character earlier in the series. Now grown up, Henri is no longer the boy readers may remember, but a prince with a burdened heart, shaped by his past and the pressures of his crown. His journey in this book is one of self-discovery, learning to trust himself, and breaking down the barriers between him and Snow, who represents everything he was once taught to mistrust. Watching him step into his own story was particularly rewarding, as he navigates both the weight of his duty and his growing affection for Snow.

Fans of the series will also enjoy seeing familiar faces, such as Ever and Isa, reappear in this installment. Their presence helps to further tie this story into the larger Classical Kingdoms universe, giving longtime readers a sense of continuity and connection.

The plot itself is engaging, offering a creative twist on the traditional Snow White story. Fichter skillfully weaves together the romance and action, creating a balance that keeps readers invested in both the characters’ relationship and their mission to save their kingdoms. The side characters are a welcome addition, and the worldbuilding is another standout feature, expanding on the realms of Tumen and Destin, and drawing readers further into the larger universe of the Classical Kingdoms.

Overall, "The Huntsman’s Heart" offers a satisfying blend of fairytale magic, romance, and adventure. Fichter’s unique take on Snow White, combined with the rich worldbuilding and character growth, makes this a must-read for fans of fairytale retellings and clean, wholesome romance.
Profile Image for Rosalyn Nightshade.
156 reviews10 followers
September 20, 2024
Wow! That's the only word I have for this book: "Wow!" The Huntsman's Heart is definitely the best book in the Classical Kingdoms series and is definitely a must-read. This book is an incredible and original retelling of the fairy tale Snow White and I love how in this story, although Snow was still rather naive, she was also intelligent and she didn't just willingly accept an apple from a stranger who came by her cottage. I loved Snow's journey as she came out of her sheltered and protected life and learned more about the world. I'm really glad that, while there was romance in the book, it focused a lot more on the plot and how Snow would defeat Dilara. I also love how Snow didn't just sit idly in the cottage but instead came up with plans to defeat Dilara. I was so glad that Henri got his own story! He is present in almost every book and it's impossible not to get attached to him. I love how he managed to overcome his self-doubts and hatred for a part of his life that he couldn't control. The romance was really well done as they got to know each other better and break down the lies they had been taught about the other kingdom. I love how this Snow White retelling is different from all the other many Snow White retellings I've read and I love all the characters, the plot and I love how we get to see more of Tumen in this book. This was such a great book and I really need Genny's book. . I can't wait for more additions to this series!
Profile Image for Beth Glass.
108 reviews2 followers
February 28, 2025
Disney needs to pay this author to make a good Snow White Movie. It has mystery, intrigue, animals, magic, animals, handsome princes, animals😂. So much to 🩵LOVE in this book.

The chemistry from the moment they meet. The animals helping out Snow White and the mystery surrounding it all.

I 🩵LOVE Henri's character and Snow's. They are an equal match. Both are smart, leary, and care about their people. The magic in these scenes rivals Disney's. I 🩵LOVED the side characters and how they helped the main characters with their feelings. It was an emotional rollercoaster of feels and swoon. That Henri wow I sure wouldn't mind him getting me out of a pickle. Also the leaning on God was amazing. I ���LOVE that in Henri's kingdom is powerful, because they put trust in God or what they call the Maker. Also I cannot say enough the animals and one scene with Henri. Poor guy 🩵LOVES Snow and risks wolves getting mad at him for it. Sooo sweet


Fans of Once Upon A Time will love this magical read

I cannot recommend this enough I SUPER HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT 100 STARS
*****************************
Profile Image for Leah.
434 reviews2 followers
September 22, 2024
Prince Henri and Snow’s story is everything I hoped for! There’s a pet squirrel, oh my gosh! I love squirrels! The two characters are from kingdoms that historically haven’t gotten along, which makes the plot intriguing. It’s nice to finally see more of Henri after his brief cameos in the other books between the first trilogy and now. He has grown in maturity and ability. The romance aspect is present but not center stage - it doesn’t overshadow the action and story. It fits naturally. The entire book was impossible to put down as I read it from cover to cover in one, very long sitting. I think anyone who loves Snow White and fairy tale telling will love this, especially people who have been following this series since book 1. 100/10 outstanding!

*I received an ARC but all opinions are my own.
11 reviews
September 30, 2024
**Disclaimer I received an early copy for reviewing purposes**

This was a BEAUTIFUL story!! Not only was it amazing to see how some of our favorite characters are doing but it was great to see the man Henri has grown into and return to our favorite kingdom of Destin and the fortress the place where it all started.

Brittany's books always brighten up my life and remind me to focus on what's most important, and she did it again with this story. As Henri & Snow got to know each other and worked together to defeat the darkness in the land it reminded me how important it is to not judge people based on rumors and how important it is to love and help our fellow men. I think that is what I have always liked about the story of Snow White. She was beautiful because she was kind. So this story just reminds me and inspires me to be kind to those around me.
832 reviews4 followers
September 24, 2024
This is my favorite retelling of Snow White! It has the charm and kernels of plot from the classic tale, but this book has so much more. Princess Snow has much adjusting to do to the real world, along with a PTSD of being isolated and told many untruths as she was captive. Prince Henri has his own history, but here he shows nothing but dedication and strength to do all that is right for others, even another kingdom. I loved that it wasn't an evil stepmother, but an evil sister-in-law! The magics of both Snow and Henri bring this story to its rightful conclusion. This Snow White version is meant for all readers of all ages, as your interpretation will draw from it as your heart desires! I did receive an ARC of this delightful book!
Profile Image for Kessa Turnbull.
220 reviews
October 6, 2024
Both protagonists were a bit too perfect

Perhaps it was my frame of mind more than an actual flaw in the book, but these two just didn't seem to have as much depth as her other characters. Even when henri was telling snow about his trauma, it was a great scene, but I was just very much thinking what 18 year old boy would be this in touch with his emotions and ok with sharing them with his crush? Perhaps it would have worked better if the characters had just been a bit older. Or perhaps I'm just being a curmudgeon because I'm stressed out of my mind. Was beautiful laying 1000 years of enmity to rest, but I'd like to hear more about if the commoners joined as easily as the monarchs. Because I doubt it.
Profile Image for Lindsay.
Author 1 book7 followers
September 22, 2024
I really enjoyed this unique version of Snow White. She is wise beyond belief when she has been locked away for so long. I loved how she handled every attack the queen threw at her. I cannot wait to find out why her brother decided to write to his enemy for help and yet of course I love that he did. This one made me want to go back and re-read all the rest starting with Everard’s! Yay for Henri getting his story as we have seen him through many others trying to find his way. So nice to find your perfect match! It was so captivating that I found I could not put it down.
Profile Image for Chantel.
195 reviews18 followers
September 29, 2024
He's been sent to save her, but he's also the one that she's been taught to distrust and hate her entire life. And to be honest, Henri wasn't really interested in dealing with someone who refuses to listen to good sense and makes saving incredibly difficult. Except there's something about her that makes him keep coming back.

This story is one I've been waiting to read for a long time. Ever since Henri and Genny appeared in a previous book, I knew that they'd each have their own incredible journey and story when the time came. And this book does not disappoint in delivering the entire epic battle against not only a very evil power but lets us see Henri's own mental battle against his past to accepting that he is exactly has the Creator made him to be.

I love this story. I am excited to continue to hear more of Henri's siblings in books to come.
276 reviews9 followers
May 30, 2025
I’ve had The Huntsman’s Heart on my TBR list since before it released, but hadn’t gotten to it. Finally, I decided to skim it just so I could knock it off of there, but I got sucked in. This may be one of my top two favourite Snow White retellings. It’s just so good. Elements of the original story are mixed with Fichter’s unique Classical Kingdoms world, and I was astounded at how much it sucked me in.

Violence: on par with a traditional Snow White story with maybe a smidge more.

Romance: clean. Some kissing, but it’s not overly descriptive
3 reviews1 follower
September 30, 2024
Disclaimer: I was given an advanced copy of the book in return for my honest review.

This book was a great addition to the series. It was so fun to get Henry’s story and to see a bit of Ever and Isa again. Snow White has never been my favorite fairy tale, but this novel brings a lot of depth to the story and keeps it fresh and interesting. This book had all the joy and magic I’ve come to expect from this series :)
718 reviews
December 30, 2024
Snow had a very sheltered upbringing - so sheltered, only her father, her brother and her aunt knew she existed. Her father - the King - had hidden her away after his wife died for fear she too would be killed by his enemies. When her father dies suddenly, her brother brings her out of hiding, and she is so excited to live a real life, however her brother's new wife is not happy with her and arranges for her to disappear. I loved how Henri - crown prince of their hated neighbour - was willing to help find Snow, however more was wrong than a missing princess as gifted people in not just their country but others were disappearing. I loved Snow's pure heart and how animals loved her.
Profile Image for Sandralena Hanley.
Author 7 books73 followers
September 27, 2025
My favorite Snow White retelling. Forget the dwarves; miners take her in. Snow lives her whole life in a cottage hidden in a secret garden. She is sweet, naive, and strong. The evil queen is her new sister in law. And Henri Fortier finally gets his HEA.

I would definitely recommend it to teens. Clean romance, mild violence.
868 reviews11 followers
October 1, 2024
This clean retelling of Snow White was so well done that I didn’t want the story to end! There are hints at other stories within this one, but there is no cliffhanger, and there is definitely a happy ending! I especially love how the main characters supported each other!
1,085 reviews10 followers
October 26, 2025
Really unique retelling of Snow White.
I loved how the author made the story feel more realistic than the cartoon.
I loved the characters and enjoyed seeing characters from previous books make appearances.
I listened to this on audio and enjoyed it.
8 reviews
January 19, 2025
Loads of happy tears!!!

Loved the characters So much!!! Snow & Henri were so well fleshed out, they were very believable. Loved all the action & drama & relationship building.
Profile Image for Ellen.
409 reviews21 followers
April 23, 2025
wonderful retelling of snow white. highly recommend
3 reviews
October 16, 2024
Great Adaptation

I love reading this version of Snow White, and I have to say it had been by far my favorite adaptation. Both Snow and Henri are such dynamic characters to see growth and change with each other through the entire book
227 reviews
November 7, 2024
Full of light and love. Henri Fortier finally gets his own adventure and what an adventure it is full of mystery, gifts, the fight of good vs evil, fighting dark magic, kingdom level stakes, found family, enemies to lovers love, animal companions, kindness, courage, self sacrifice, and many twists and turns. IThis story was so much fun to read and I struggled to put it down from beginning to end. I walked away feeling stronger and more hopeful than before and more thankful than ever for family both those born into and those that are found. I loved the theme of light pushing back the darkness and the snarkiness of Snow kept me laughing throughout the adventure. Brittany Fichter does it again and creates a story that sweeps you up into another world, explores the depths of people, finds the hero in any willing to embrace the light, and leaves you with a story that will live long into your memory and encourage one to be stronger, more hopeful, and more sacrificially loving in their day to day lives. The Huntsman's heart is definitely an adventure worth taking alongside Henri and Snow.
Profile Image for Angeline.
739 reviews23 followers
January 2, 2025
Wow! There was so much going on in this book. I was super excited to read the Huntsman's Heart and get back into this exciting world that the author had created. The Huntsman's Heart is the 12th book in Brittany Fichter’s Classical Kingdoms series. Snow White retellings can be hit or miss for me but I ended up loving this one!
Henri was ready for his own story. He had been through so much as a child and I was excited to see him get his own happy ending. He was such a lovely character, I adored him from the start. He was desperately trying to do what's right and figure out who exactly he was. He was struggling a bit with the expectations that he had put on himself. He had to learn to trust the Maker and see that he could be himself.
Snow was also fun. She had to grow on me but I grew to understand her. She had been sheltered most of her life so she had to figure out who she was and what was true. I felt for Snow as she tried to navigate the difficult situation she was in, trying to do what was right.
I loved the relationship between Snow and Henri. They didn’t quite get along at first, but it was sweet to read about them connecting. They were both honorable individuals who were just trying their best. Their romance was sweet and it fit the story. It grew as they struggled to fight against evil.
The plot was also interesting. I love this twist on Snow White, there were so many fun aspects on it. It was also cool how Fichter is great at weaving the story around the world that she had created. I really like the faith aspects and the character growth. The side characters were lovely and it was fun to see old characters.
I would totally recommend The Huntsman's Heart! It was so good and I loved it. The story drew me in and I ended up reading it in one day. The Huntsman's Heart is a clean fairy tale inspired romance.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews

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