Much thanks to Heather Fawcett, Random House/Del Rey, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This novel was a surprise to me. I'm not sure what I expected, but it wasn't Veronica Speedwell with faeries. That's a pretty accurate pitch. Emily was a more socially awkward and reserved version of Deanna Raybourn's Veronica Speedwell. Framed as a starkly honest journal and everything. I could hear Angele Masters narrating. Which is perfectly fine with me!

I liked Emily. As someone who's also socially awkward and would prefer to be left alone with her books, I found her very relatable and sympathetic. And she had a beautiful character arc---proud, cold, repressed, superior to....less so. Which sounds underwhelming but truly, her arc was great.

As for Bambleby..... First, I gotta get this off my chest. I hate the name Bambleby. My brain can only read it as either Brambleby or Bumblebee, and at some point while reading I got sick of stumbling over it and just starting reading it as Brambleby. Also, "Wendell Bambleby" sounds fae to me, and I can't understand why he chose that as his mortal alias. Maybe not "Wendell" so much, but "Bambleby" just sounds silly. (Apologies to anyone with the name Bambleby.)

Aside from his name, I'm undecided how I feel about him. He was no Stoker, that's for sure. On one hand, he's annoying as fuck, always running his mouth and getting out of doing any work. I would NOT be able to live with him---except for the fact that he cleans and likes things tidy and cozy. That was a hilarious development! But at times I just wanted to take him by the shoulders and scream "Would you stand still and be serious for half a second?!" He's like a lazy, smarmy, entitled teenage boy with ADHD. But then when you've nearly given up on liking him, he turns around and does something thoughtful or productive, or has an earnest conversation. He's entirely self-aware. Thus my indecision. I'm not super fond of him, but I don't dislike him, either. I admit he had a great line when he pointed out that "capable" is not the same as "inclined." *slow clap*

(view spoiler)

The other characters were great as well, but Poe was the stand out. He was so cute. (view spoiler)

The beginning is well written from a narrative perspective, but some readers, including myself, may feel it's slow because it takes a bit for anything truly exciting to happen. Otherwise the pace was pretty steady. Verb tense started to annoy me, always switching from past to present, likely confused by the journal framing.

I don't mind stories framed like journal entries, though it niggles my skepticism (it is realistic to remember events in such detail?) Also, the writer has to be careful not to crush the tension. For example, if you begin a chapter by saying okay, it's three days later and I've recovered so now let me relate what happened, then go on to describe a life or death action scene---well, the reader already knows the character survives relatively unharmed. It can be tricky to pull off, but it can be done.

The only aspect of the journal framing I didn't care for was the footnotes. Made it feel way too textbooky, which was likely the point, but I don't want to feel like I'm reading a textbook. I read the first couple and then just skipped them. One could argue that if the information is irrelevant enough to be relegated to a footnote, it should be removed altogether; on the other hand, it could be argued that if the author wants to include irrelevant information as a kind of bonus material, footnotes is the appropriate way to do so. I understand it both ways.

One thing that disappointed me was that the narrative was set in 1909, but other than the lack of technology and machines, you really couldn't tell. Social and gender conventions weren't noticably antiquated; there was a lesbian (bi? unclear) couple and no one batted an eye. Which is good, but not historically accurate. I kept waiting for Emily to say to hell with dresses because they're too drafty in that climate (wouldn't a bunch of snow get up the skirt as you're trudging and climbing through huge drifts?) and ask Wendell to make her pants.

Jeez, I didn't realize I had so much to say about this book. The last thing I want to mention is how well plotted it is! At first it seems like separate subplot threads and a slow burn main plot, but one by one they all get tied together and suddenly you're like, holy shit, it's all connected! At least as far as I can remember. That's not easy to do; that's exceptional writing.

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Wendell's personality leaves me wanting but I can hope he'll continue to grow as a character; the journaling device can be tricky; and I would really ask that Fawcett embrace the historical setting; otherwise I really enjoyed this tale and look forward to book two!

P.S. - If you're a Sarah Maas fan like me, you need to consciously set aside her faerie mythology in your mind. I kept anticipating the courtly fae here to be like Maas's high fae---no, no, no. Different mythology. Do not expect a character like Rhysand to appear. At least not in this book.

Emily Wilde's Encyclopedia of Fairies is the perfect mix of dark academia, adventure, romance, and creature lore. When Emily Wilde arrives in a small town in rural Scandinavia she is greeted by friendly, but wary, townspeople with only her large black dog for company she gets right to work. An obsessive researcher she begins researching the local fae. There are common fae, who she befriends rather quickly, and the courtly fae who it is said will return with the onset of winter. Interactions between the courtly fae and the townspeople have been increasing and Emily and her colleague Wendell, who she's reasonably sure is an uncover fairy, travel into the wilderness to recover some missing townspeople.

I loved the pacing of this book along with Emily's inner dialogue. The book is written like a journal so it is full of her astute observations and inner thoughts. I also enjoyed the interaction between Emily and Wendell. The descriptions of the fairies were original and I liked that Fawcett chose to stick to folk tale-like descriptions of the different fairies and treat them as extensions of the natural world. The complexities and personalities of even minor characters helps this book jump off the page.

I would recommend this book to those who enjoyed the Cruel Prince by Holly Black or who read the Spiderwick Chronicles growing up.

3.5 stars

This was not at all what I was expecting, which was a more typical fantasy novel. Instead, the story is told through a series of journal entries, mostly by Emily Wilde, with footnotes included. Those of you who enjoy academia-centered fantasy centered in Faerie would probably love this, and there were aspects of it I found completely fascinating. Besides the Faerie aspect, it felt more like historical fiction, with this being set in 1900s Scandinavia.

For me, the book started out slowly, and other more interesting books kept calling to me. I made to around the 40% mark over a week's time, but then something clicked, and I ended up reading the rest of it in one sitting. Part of it is that Emily Wilde is not a warm and fuzzy person. In fact, she would rather be out in foul weather, freezing to death, getting to know one of the Folk (dangerous or not) than be in a warm and cozy room full of people. She doesn't make small talk and doesn't care about her appearance or social niceties. Part of the charm of the story, at least to me, was her coming to realize that she won't die if she admits she likes the company of some people, or that she might need their help.

Wendell Bambleby was just as unlikeable, but for a completely different reason. He was one of those smooth, handsome, con artist types who are smart but fundamentally lazy and care only about being comfortable. The two of them are about as unlike as two people can be, and yet, somehow this story works. It is as they are both forced to live and work next to each other that each becomes more human in a good way.

For me, the second half of the book is stronger than the first part, and the ending worked well for me. Many of the side characters were awesome and kept me coming back for more. I liked this enough that I would be curious to listen to the audiobook when it's released and see what I think. I suspect that I might round up, depending on who the narrator is. Somehow, I've always enjoyed books set in a Scandinavian setting more when I listen to them.

I received an advance review copy from NetGalley and the Publisher for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

While a fun concept, the plot seemed too slow and disjointed and definitely felt written for a younger audience. I didn't mind Emily as a main character, but she also didn't always hold my attention. Her interactions with Wendell were always the high point, but even their relationship felt incomplete.
I liked the history and development of the fairy stories, but overall those sections felt rushed compared to the rest.

This was delightful. It had an interesting mix of tradition and difference, and was overall a super fun read. If there are more books in this series, I will definitely be buying them.

Whimsical and fun read! Set in 1909, it is written in journal logs as Emily compiles research for her book on fairies. Historical fiction is becoming a favorite genre. I think this can also be classified as cozy fantasy as it is a heartwarming story. This is a slower paced novel, but purposeful!

An adorable, wintry, faerie-filled delight! Emily is a brilliant yet socially awkward professor (classic!) who journeys to the mountains to research faeries for her upcoming book. She has quite the time trying to fend for herself in the little cabin she's rented and trying to get along with the locals. Her dynamic with her colleague Wendell, who shows up unannounced and is immediately best friends with everyone who can't stand Emily, is hilarious and cute. I really hope there's a second book.

Picking up Emily Wilde is a choice you won't regret. Heather Fawcett's novel is dripping with brilliant prose and colorful descriptions that bring the world of Emily Wilde to life right before your eyes. I couldn't take my focus away from the page, and stayed up late into the night to figure out what happens next, read just one more chapter. The hook for the novel couldn't be more charming, a scholar of faerie lore who travels to a cold distant land to study a species of faeries that have eluded most everyone else, and which will tidily finish off her encyclopaedia of faeries. Things take a turn for the unexpected when her coworker, a possible faerie himself, arrives to insert himself into her investigation. What follows is a scientifically minded, but thoroughly wonderful romp through the wilderness as Emily encounters fae of many shapes and sizes. I thought this book truly whimsical and romantic, and I would recommend it to any lover of fantasy and faeries, though have your dictionary nearby, I had to look up a few more unusual vocabulary words. 4 out of 5 stars!

What an absolutely wonderful book. The world building was so magical I'm ready to buy Emily's book. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves traveling to fantastical worlds while reading. The vivid detail Givin to the faerie world really brought the book to life.

Thank you @netgalley and @randomhouse for allowing me to review this amazing book!

Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia Of Faeries by Heather Fawcett is a unique look into the stories of the Fae. Told in a journalistic format it's a mixture of light romance, fantasy, fairy tales, and historical elements.

Emily Wilde is a professor and foremost expert on the Fae. She frequently goes on research expeditions to learn as much as she can and this time she travels to Scandinavia in search of the Hidden ones. In between navigating the harsh landscape and interpersonal issues with the local townsfolk Emily also has to deal with the arrival of her academic rival, Wendell Bambleby. Emily is NOT a people person. She is studious and stuff, the epitome of a dry academic. If she could have her nose in a book and only her dog Shadow by her side she'd be quite content. So of course Wendell is the exact opposite. He's charismatic and quite foppish. Wendell is flighty and quite lazy but that all hides a sharp mind and a dark intensity.
I enjoyed their banter very much and found myself laughing and shaking my head. Mostly because I am very much like Emily and Wendell is most definitely a cute nuisance.

The story as a whole was unique and very entertaining. It was a study of contrasts. From the characters themselves to the whimsical nature of the Fae and the practicality of academia. I loved seeing the standoffish Emily slowly thaw and become comfortable with people, be they Fae or human. Her connection with little Poe has to be my favorite part of the book. I'd love a friend like him! The human side characters were also a treat and I'm glad we got to see the two main characters become a part of the little community. I especially loved seeing the blossoming friendship between Emily and Lilja and Margret.

Overall this was a fun and easy read. Definitely for fans of folklore and eccentric characters. The writing style is also different and I can see people loving the change. Personally, the story being told in a journal style made me feel slightly removed from the book instead of immersed. Also, my digital copy cut out sections after every chapter beginning so I'm sure I missed a few details here and there. I'm still so grateful to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC. Emily's world is an interesting one and I can't wait to see what comes next for her.

This book was so magical and fun! I was hooked from the very beginning. I'm not typically a fan of stories told through journal entries, but this time it worked for me. Can't wait to read the author's next books!

A charming read! The diary style of writing was a great way to begin the book and the banter between faerie academic, Emily Wilde, and her mysterious, hilariously wry frenemy & fellow faerie researcher Wendell Brambleby is fun and witty - as is the slow-burn chemistry. I loved the setting and the cast of characters, and the amount of scholarly knowledge wasn't overpowering or distracting. So cute!

Very slow to start but overall it was good. I thought the story was interesting, just the pacing was glacial and I needed it to be faster. Definitely would read more set in this world though! And Emily is great.

"If anyone were to claim greater happiness in their careers than I do in poking about sunlit wildwoods for faerie footprints, I should not believe it."

I feel bereft after reading this GEM, and wholly unprepared to give it the review it deserves. Emily Wilde's Encyclopeadia of Faeries was dark academia meets creature in the woods meets chuckle-out-loud-friendship and banter.
I loved every 'scientific' fact, footnote, comparison and cold-hard truth that Emily presented, I loved her internal conflict and the need for knowledge, and I LOVED Brambley.
Who is Brambley you ask?
Wendell Bramley is an unwanted guest on Emily's journey to complete her final field trip and entry into her Encyclopeadia. He's also a friend… or colleague on the formal days when Emily can no longer put up with his laze-about and snark.

"I wish to know the unknowable. To see what no mortal has seen, to--how does Label put it? To peel back the carpeting of the world and tumble into the stars."

I leave youwith that line that ripped me open, and with a lacking review that does not due justice but a plea to READ THE BOOK if you are interested in academia and/or folklore in any way, if you appreciate dry humor, and want to explore a whole new world of Faerie lore. Or, if you are bored on a Tuesday… READ IT. It will be worth your Tuesday's time.

e-book provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Thank you to NetGalley and Del Rey Books for an e-ARC of Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries, by Heather Fawcett! This is such an atmospheric read - you can feel yourself cozied up in Emily and Wendell's cabin, braving a Scandinavian winter while you untangle dark faerie magic that has ensnared the locals. Written entirely as diary entries (primarily from Emily's perspective, with a few entries from Wendell), the plot gradually darkens as we sense threats not only to the villagers but to our heroine, Emily, a frankly brilliant faerie scholar and scientist... and absolute dummy when she has to *express or interpret emotions of any kind*.

What I enjoyed:
✨ Wendell! He reminds me of Colin from A Week to be Wicked by Tessa Dare. A beautiful, witty rake absolutely head over heels for the uptight genius who pretends to hate him.
✨ The setting. This village comes to life through Emily and Wendell's entries, and it's such a unique setting for this story (and Wendell's constant underlying bitterness about the cold beauty is so well executed).

My only struggle in this was accepting the first-person diary entries as our construct. I was pulled out of the story too often as I wondered whether or not someone would ever actually know they had thought of something "distantly" in their own personal reflection, or if a scientist would describe the crunching of the snow as she sought out the common folk in the woods, or if anyone actually writes out extensive dialogue between themselves and others in their own journal? The format also limited the suspense when the plot darkened, and that felt like a missed opportunity. It was such a unique concept, it's just not one I loved personally.

I adored this novel by Heather Fawcett so much more than I expected.

Not only are the main characters, Emily and Wendell, and the tales and creatures that they are trying to find in the wildness of Hrafnsvik. They both are considered the experts in their field on Faeries and Emily comes to this small town to get this insight on a group that has never been studied. Little does Emily realize all the adventures she is about to go through in her simple quest for knowledge.

She meets so many interesting types of Fae leading from low level to royalty and finds out more about her companion that she never took time to realize. This book hit on so many different genres creating a flowing storyline that felt true to the ideas of Fae being flighty and whim-following creatures. I will say one of my favorite things is when changelings are touched on and there was a small mystery based on a left behind fae child.

I adored this book and full recommend it for people who enjoy reading cozy, mysterious, and heartwarming stories.

Professor Emily Wilde, a socially awkward but dedicated researcher, disembarks in Hrafnsvik, a village on a remote island near the Arctic Circle looking for an elusive variety of faerie allegedly darker and more dangerous than any other on earth. Though she has some small early successes in her research, her brusque attitude immediately offends the villagers until her much disliked but somehow closest friend and professional rival shows up. Wendell Bambleby is everything Emily is not - easy with strangers, charming, lazy, and prone to fits of extravagance that irritates her to no end. However, since his presence makes it easier to conduct her research, she tolerates him and begins to realize that he might be exactly what she needs. Along the way they confront a changeling, find their way into a faerie winter fair, rescue lost lovers, and stumble upon a faerie king trapped inside a tree.

I didn't expect to like this as much as I did but damn did I enjoy it. Any summary is either going to be too long or too vague to really convey the depths of adventures Emily and Wendell find in and around Hrafnsvik. A LOT happens in this book, which is written as field notes and is mostly from Emily's perspective. The footnotes add an additional academic feel that presents faeries and everything in their world not as myths but as fact - faeries exist and they are studied in Cambridge! With all the different adventures, not everything is wrapped up by the end leaving room for additional books and hopefully a resolution to some of the dangling threads left in the first one. The central characters are interesting as well as the secondary ones, and peeks into their backstories also begs for more books to continue fleshing things out. Though the book doesn't end in a cliffhanger, it does leave the reader feeling unsettled because of those unfinished plotlines, itchy for hinted connections to be made and questions to be answered. It is a shame the second book isn't already out because I would be diving right into it now that I finished the first! You can bet I will be eagerly waiting for Fawcett's next installment.

Thank you to Random House Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries early in exchange for an honest review!

Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, Del Rey and Netgalley for the eARC of Emily Wilde's Encyclopedia of Faeries in exchange for my honest review.

I loved this book. It is so different from a lot of things I've read recently and was such a FUN read. While the first part of the book drags a little, it quickly picks up and keeps your attention all the way through to the end. I loved the characters -- each one felt so real.

If you're into fairy tales, this is certainly a wild ride.

I can't wait for the next one! What a fun, fun book. 5/5 stars.

I just finished Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries and let me say that I am absolutely obsessed. This is everything that a story of Faeries and Folk should be. Emily Wilde is one of the most meticulous researchers in the established field of Folk and Faeries and Wendell Bambleby is one of the most charismatic. Wendell and Emily team up, much to her chagrin, to research a relatively unknown group of Folk in a small Scandinavian town. Obviously, it doesn't go quite to plan. The setting and academic feel of the books is incredibly cozy, and it leans into the idea that the Folk are both terrifying and quite whimsical. Fans of The Winternight Trilogy, A River Enchanted, and Spinning Silver who want something that feels lighter and cozier will absolutely fall in love.

I absolutely loved this academic little historical fantasy. You follow the main character Emily Wilde as she explores a frozen part of the world to research a the type of fae called “the hidden ones” no academics have studied before. Accompanied by the bane of her existence, but also her only friend, Bambleby, she gets tangled in various scrapes with changelings, makes friends with a bear-fur loving low fae, and ends up betrothed to a faerie king?


This is the type of cozy fantasy I love to read. If you enjoyed books like A Secret History of Dragons you will love this one.