Emily Wilde ventures into the perilous Otherlands, unraveling faerie mysteries, ancient rivalries, and her own heart as she faces dangers that threaten both worlds she loves.
The sequel to Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries follows Emily Wilde, a scholar of faerie lore, as she embarks on a journey into the Otherlands to document and uncover the mysteries of fae territories. Unlike any ordinary expedition, this adventure takes Emily into territories untouched by humans, filled with fey intrigue, dazzling magic, and deadly creatures. As Emily dives deeper, she encounters new allies, challenging foes, and, unexpectedly, starts discovering as much about herself as she does about the Otherlands.
Heather Fawcett brings a delightful charm to this story. Her writing is both whimsical and immersive, effortlessly drawing readers into a rich and vivid fae world. Emily is a wonderfully unique protagonist—her scholarly nature, her skepticism toward social norms, and her unapologetic obsession with the fae make her both relatable and intriguing. The book balances humor with high stakes, offering plenty of tense moments interwoven with endearing character interactions, particularly between Emily and her longtime companion, Wendell. Fawcett’s world-building shines in this sequel, with meticulously detailed fae realms that feel both enchanting and dangerous, capturing the strange allure of fairy tales.
While Emily’s intellectual curiosity drives the plot, some of her choices feel overly cautious, which might frustrate those looking for a more daring protagonist. However, this also adds realism to her character—she’s an academic, after all, not an adventurer!
Emily Wilde’s Map of the Otherlands is perfect for readers who love whimsical fantasy, fairy lore, and stories with an academic twist. Fans of The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow or The Invisible Library series by Genevieve Cogman will feel right at home here. It’s a cozy, fantastical escape with just the right amount of mystery and romance—a magical read for anyone who’s ever dreamed of a passport to the fae world.
Fawcett’s magical sequel is a gem for lovers of folklore and fantasy, offering a mix of charm, wit, and wonder that will leave readers eagerly awaiting Emily’s next adventure.