A prickly scholar’s quest to document faerie lore leads her to a remote village, where magic, fae, and unexpected companionship transform her research—and her heart.
Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett is a delightful blend of academic wit and fairy-tale charm. The story follows the titular Emily Wilde, a brilliant yet socially awkward scholar determined to complete her magnum opus on the magical creatures of the world. Her journey takes her to a remote Scandinavian village, where she becomes entangled with the enigmatic fae, the wary locals, and her charismatic but infuriating colleague Wendell Bambleby. What begins as a quest for knowledge evolves into a tale of courage, friendship, and the blurred lines between the human and the magical.
The book shines in its world-building, with a meticulous attention to faerie lore that feels both authentic and inventive. The narrative, framed as Emily’s research journal, immerses the reader in her fascinating, at times perilous, encounters with the fae. Her dry humor and sharp observations are perfectly balanced by Wendell’s charm, creating a delightful dynamic that keeps the story engaging.
If I had one minor critique, it’s that the pacing lags slightly in the middle, where the narrative leans heavily into Emily’s fieldwork. While this adds authenticity to her scholarly perspective, it occasionally slows the plot. However, the richly woven lore and the heartwarming character arcs more than make up for it.
This book is perfect for fans of Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell or The Ten Thousand Doors of January. It’s an enchanting story for anyone who loves faerie tales with a touch of wit and academic intrigue.