The Stats

Title: Emily Wilde’s Encyclopedia of Faeries

Author: Heather Fawcett

Publisher: Del Rey (10 January, 2023)

Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Historical Fiction, Fantasy, 2SLGBTQIA+, Magical Realism, Romance

Trigger Warnings: Fae, Language, Depictions of Death, Kidnapping,

Read if you like: PG-13 Faerie Smut, Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance, Balder’s Gate, Discovery of Witches, Cozy Games

Rating: Lovely! Decided to round up to 5 Stars!

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I read Emily Wilde’s Encyclopedia of Faeries as I was pre-approved by Heather Fawcett, Del Rey, and NetGalley to receive an electrical Advanced Review Copy of the Second Novel in the Emily Wilde Series, Emily Wilde’s Map of the Otherlands. Despite this, all opinions mentioned in this review are my own.

GoodReads Choice Awards Nominee for Best Fantasy (2023)

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The Review

“Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries” seamlessly blends academic rigor with the whimsical allure of faerie lore. Crafted by Heather Fawcett, this cozy fantasy escapade unfolds as a meticulous portrayal of Emily Wilde, a Cambridge Professor specializing in Dryadology, devoted to unraveling the mystique surrounding faeries.

As we delve into Emily’s scholarly pursuit, meticulously documented in the form of journal entries, the narrative unfolds with an intellectual grace, akin to a seasoned academic unveiling the layers of her research. Within the frost-bitten landscapes and enchanting atmospheres, Emily’s journey unfolds with a meticulous touch. The unique narrative approach extends to the structural elements, where the journal format, enriched with footnotes, imparts an authentic feel to Emily’s adventures. The story is not merely a fantastical escapade; it is a scholarly exploration interwoven with the challenges of fieldwork, the nuances of human interaction, and the mysteries of the fae.

As Emily’s research deepens, and the mysteries of the fae unfold, readers are invited to investigate what could be learned from stories of Hvansvik in real time with Emily. The character dynamics, particularly the love-hate relationship between Emily and her colleague Wendell Bambleby, are portrayed with a nuanced hand. The banter and camaraderie between these two academics, navigating the rustic village and uncovering the secrets of the Hidden Ones, contribute to the novel’s charm. Emily’s academic rigor, coupled with her vulnerabilities, establishes her as a relatable and multi-dimensional protagonist. Wendell, on the other hand, adds a layer of levity and depth to the narrative, creating a compelling dynamic between the characters.

Fawcett’s world-building shines through in the vivid descriptions of faerie realms, the intricate fae customs, and the magical backdrop against the cold, barren setting. This juxtaposition enhances the atmospheric richness of the story. While the romance takes a backseat to the academic pursuits, its slow-burn nature adds a delightful layer of complexity to the narrative. The author masterfully navigates the challenges of pacing, ensuring that every scene contributes meaningfully to the overarching storyline.

In conclusion, “Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries” emerges as a captivating inaugural entry in what promises to be a compelling series. Fawcett’s adept storytelling, combined with the scholarly and fantastical elements, creates a narrative tapestry that resonates with readers on both intellectual and emotional levels. As readers eagerly await the next installment, Fawcett has successfully woven together academia, fantasy, and a touch of romance into a narrative that leaves a lasting impression

Short Review (AKA TLDR)

In “Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries,” Heather Fawcett takes us on a wild ride through the mystical world of faerie lore, expertly blending academic vibes with enchanting escapades. We follow the protagonist, Emily Wilde, a Cambridge Professor rocking the Dryadology scene. The narrative unfolds through her journal entries, giving off serious intellectual vibes as Emily tackles frosty landscapes and fae mysteries. It’s not just your run-of-the-mill fantasy; it’s a deep dive into the struggles of fieldwork, the quirks of human interaction, and the secrets of the fae. Oh, and let’s not forget the love-hate shenanigans between Emily and her colleague, Wendell Bambleby, adding a dash of charm to their village exploits. Fawcett’s world-building adds to the story, painting vivid faerie realms against a chilly backdrop. With just the right sprinkle of romance, this book crafts an atmospheric tale that is sure to warm any heart in the cold of winter.