Bathing in a lake, Pete exits to find Ariel, a unicorn, with a broken leg. Little is known about them, so when she speaks, he's surprised. Although timid by nature, they form a bond and travel together.

The roads are dangerous. The people who survive are mostly loners. Some have resorted to cannibalism. Others have formed gangs. As they enter Atlanta, they have a brief confrontation with borders guards, and Pete boosts his ability to break the bond between a person and their familiar. Curious as to how he did it, Russ Chaffney, one of the men from the overpass, meets them at the library. Not everybody is out for themselves and to steal from others. He introduces them to Malachi Lee, a minor magician, and his huge Chow dog, Faust.

Learning the meaning of a spell, Pete finds Ariel has used him. He needs space, and without thinking, opens the door, activating a pickaxe to slam into and pierce his chest. Even though she brings him back from the dead, it has cost her and their friendship. Can he ever forgive her for breaking their trust? Pete's only weapon up until now has been his fists and a blow gun, but while recuperating at Malachi's house he is taught sword play until it becomes second nature.

A rider and its Griffin from NY attack their little group. Thirsting for vengeance, Malachi sets off. Pete doesn't obey his order to hide and protect Ariel by any means possible, but instead shortly follows him up the east coast. Ariel isn't happy about it. The wildlife has not been plentiful but when Pete thinks he's got a sure shot, Ariel interferes, saving George Nieman's life. Inviting in, they ask Pete to join George far enough to slay a dragon.

On their further journey north Shaughnessy Taylor joins their group. Ariel and Shaughnessy take an immediate dislike to each other. Being pure of heart doesn't mean without sin, rather it means a virgin. No sex. How long, under what trials, and through what dangers will they pass until the nature of a man and woman becomes too much? Will the myth be true or is the bond between the unicorn and man strong enough to with stand their nature?

ARIEL by Steven R. Boyett is filled with adventures, sword fighting, and battles. Much of what happened to our world has to be taken on faith. Throughout the book are bits and pieces of the day of the change.