This is a truly successful sequel! In the first book, we get to fall in love with Emily Wilde and her precise ways of conducting research (and relationships), and in MAP OF THE OTHERLANDS we get to know her even better. In this book, Emily is considering marriage to Wendell Bambleby, her former academic rival who is actually a fairie king exiled from his homeland. When Wendell's mother sends assassins after him, Emily knows she must take matters into her own hands to save Wendell, his kingdom, and her academic reputation. This book is full of adventure, fun, danger, and magic!

Sequels are rarely as good as first titles, but it comes as no surprise that Fawcett's second book in the Emily Wilde series is just as immersive, riveting, and magical as the first. Emily and Wendell (and Shadow) are off on another adventure, and of course meeting helpers and dangers along the way. I cannot wait to re-read this title, and I don't say that about many!

I read book one in July and jumped into the ARC of the next one immediately because I just wanted more of Emily and Wendell! And I'm glad I got that and many other things too in this one!

Emily and Wendell embark on a new adventure while trying to find the door back to Wendell's kingdom and Emily works on her new project - a map of the different faerie realms. They're joined by some old and new faces - which includes Emily's niece, Ariadne and their Department Head, Dr. Rose 😆 The stakes are higher with more danger involved when Wendell's stepmother sends assassins after him.

This one had all of the things that made me love book one - cozy vibes with darker elements, capricious fae, a very clever heroine who works hard and very interesting supporting characters! There's a bit more romance in this one but I'd say that the mystery is the major plot - as Emily and her group work to find the nexus that might connect overlapping realms and solve the disappearance of another dryadologist while they're at it! The author's writing was amazing as always and I loved watching these different characters interact with each other. I feel like Emily and Wendell get each other in a way that perhaps others might not understand, but it makes their relationship more special. And while Emily is very particular about many things, it was nice seeing her *try* to be patient with her niece and grow closer later!😂 Rose ended up surprising me in many ways too! I loved how Emily handled things in the end and this was an amazing ride! Can't wait to see what Emily and Wendell might do next in the upcoming books!😆

Thank you Netgalley and publisher for this advanced copy.

This book was so good just as the first book. ight and cozy academia, older characters, softer romance, introverted, focused characters, and an emphasis on educational ambition and passion. What a perfection!

Book two in the Emily Wilde series. After reading and loving the first book, Emily Wilde's Encyclopedia of Faeries, I was so happy to be approved to review this one as well. It's becoming a great end-of-year tradition for me!
I love the same things about this book that I did with the first: the journal format, traveling (though there wasn't much of that here so kind of had a gothic feel to it), and the world and creatures of the fae. I feel like this didn't get going until after I reached 40% of the book though. I liked Emily less than I did in the first book. She's cold with few feelings and her awkwardness really comes through. She's not written poorly, I just feel like there's not much to like about her so I don't have much of an interest in what happens to her. Wendell has asked her to marry him, repeatedly, but they don't seem to have any romantic relationship to point to. For some reason he is in love with her and she seems quite indifferent to him. I would like her to have a bit more warmth and personality and fewer thoughts about academic papers.
Despite not connecting with Emily, this book is still unique with an imaginative world and I highly recommend giving both books in the series a read.

Emily Wilde's Map of the Otherlands will be released on January 16th, 2024. I was given a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I will be posting my review on my Instagram and Tiktok (@de_van_diggity) on December 27th 2023 and my review will also be posted today on goodreads Thank you so much Random House for allowing me the absolute pleasure of getting to read this book. I am already so excited for book three.

I thoroughly enjoyed how this story progressed. Em is such a unique character; she is unapologetic in who she is and while she does have moments of growth, her character doesn't have a moment where her personality is sacrificed in the name of growth. Her relationship with Rose throughout the book and how they grew to respect each other even though he does not approve of her methods. Her love and respect for her niece, I thought she would have been so excited to share her work at the start but looking back I think many of her thoughts were driven by the fear of the fae and what could happen to Ariadne. Emily realizing, she also loved Wendell *screaming crying throwing up* I love them. I love how he loves her exactly as she is and also doesn't want her to change. I could not stop smiling when I read the chapter he wrote in her book "...I told him the truth: in order to be surprised, I could not have known already that you are capable of anything." Emilys reaction to his handwriting and how it was annoying her that his handwriting was so perfect. I love and adore their love story; it is the perfect definition of a slow burn, but it feels so organic that even though it's taking several books to develop and to get married I have nothing but joy for them. Their banter with one another throughout the book is honestly so wonderfully perfect. I really love your writing style and the way you are growing this world you have created. I am so excited to see where this story goes.

As a HUGE fan of Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries, I was eager to dive back into this world. I'm happy to report that Heather Fawcett delivers again in Emily Wilde's Map of the Otherlands!
After an attempt is made on Wendell's life, the pair leave Cambridge for Austria. Emily must juggle mapping Faerie, finding Wendell's door, and evading threats from Wendell's home. And, with the addition of new friends as well as the return of a few old friends, there is even more chaos to ruffle our fastidious Emily.
Book Two is a cozy romp that picks up effortlessly where Book One ends. Dear Emily is as curmudgeonly as Bambleby is vainglorious. Never have I read a duo that makes me laugh and sigh like these two.
I'm crossing my fingers and toes that Fawcett has a Book 3 in the works because I can't wait to see what shenanigans Emily and Wendell get into next!

Thank you, NetGalley and Del Rey, for providing me with a complimentary digital copy of this book for review.

Emily Wilde's Map of the Otherlands by Heather Fawcett, commences within the storied walls of Cambridge, enveloping readers in an aura of academia. The narrative deftly guides us through the life of protagonist Emily, encompassing her scholarly pursuits, interpersonal dynamics, and endearing relationship with her pet, Shadow—a Grim concealed by a glamour. Fawcett's portrayal of Shadow is poised to strike a chord with pet owners everywhere, capturing the universal anxiety that accompanies the aging of our beloved companions.

Fawcett's fascination with the fae is evident, drawing readers into a captivating foray into their realm. Her exploration of the complexities of fae society—their mercurial temperaments, intricate bonds, and the labyrinthine politics of their courts—is both thorough and enthralling.

The narrative arc follows Emily's latest odyssey, which, while reminiscent of the first installment in terms of structure—a visit to a quaint village teeming with fae—quickly diverges into a fresh, enthralling adventure. The quest for a portal into the fae domain not only propels the plot but also tantalizingly sets the stage for subsequent exploits.

The romantic interlude woven through the tale adds a delightful dimension to the lore. The evolving relationship between Emily and Wendel Bambleby, a Fae king, is marked by witty repartee and humor, providing levity amidst the fantastical elements. Emily's hesitation over Wendel's marriage proposal, juxtaposed with his persistent courtship, injects a playful undercurrent into the narrative.

Fawcett ensures that Emily's character development remains at the forefront, presenting her as a figure both formidable and relatable. Emily's internal struggle with collaboration—especially with her niece, Astrid—mirrors common experiences, drawing readers further into her world. Despite her inclination for solitary discovery, Emily's resolute spirit and her readiness to confront peril remain unwavering.

The book concludes on a note of triumph, with the immediate quest resolved, yet tantalizing plot threads linger, whetting the appetite for the series' forthcoming installment, particularly regarding Wendel's arc and his relationship with Emily.

My sole critique, albeit a minor one, pertains to the footnotes. While I understand their purpose in reflecting on the journaling style of Emily, I found that they occasionally disrupted the narrative flow. These asides, meant to offer deeper insights or anecdotes, sometimes diverted my attention away from the core storyline.

"Emily Wilde's Map of the Otherlands" is a nostalgic echo of the fantastical epics replete with perilous missions and narrow escapes, culminating in a satisfying resolution. Fawcett's craftsmanship in depicting the fae realm is commendable—eschewing romanticization to present a raw, authentic interpretation of fae folklore that resonates with both verisimilitude and vivacity.

I loved this second installment in the series! It was just a bit different in tone from the first book, but that did not diminish my enjoyment at all. The character growth of Emily, Wendell, and their relationship was very well done. I did not want to put the book down, and even found myself wanting to yell at Emily a little bit for some of the choices and decisions she made--and then was saying "I told you so!" right along with Wendell.
This was a fun story in a delightful series, and I cannot wait to read more about Emily and her adventures with the Fair Folk!

I freaking adored the first book in this series. The covers are just irresistible, so I had very high expectations for this book . . . and it EXCEEDED them! I love the mystery, the research, the magic. The same characters are back and consistent but we also meet new friends who I fell in love with. This book just cemented that this series will be one of my all time favorites.

Thank you to Random House Publishing Group for giving me the opportunity to read an arc of Emily Wildes Map of the Otherlands! The authors unique writing style is charming, magical, does a remarkable job of portraying the academic research that goes into documenting The Folk. I also enjoy how different but funny the two academics are throughout their journey. Please continue this quirky and warm hearted series!

Thank you so much for an advanced copy of this book! I enjoyed it so much.

I was really captivated by the world created in the first book, and I was anticipating the second book very much! I'm happy to say it did not disappoint. I think what I love most about this book, the second book, is the characters, though. The characters just felt very real to me despite the novel being a fantasy novel. Two thumbs way up!

I also liked the magical setting in this story. I kept reading because I just knew every turn of the page would be something new and magical, and I could not resist!

Thank you again for an advanced copy. This was such a good one!

Rating: 4⭐️

Although I still think the diary format hinders the writing in some points, the story itself never disappointed! I wasn’t sure how different this would be from its predecessor, but the whole book was well-served by a central purpose and clarity the first lacked in parts (although learning about the fae in Hrafnsvik was enjoyable, that climax felt a bit out-of-nowhere, where this felt more like a natural consequence of all that had happened up to that point). I actually liked that there was less of a focus on the people of St Leisl and more on the central issues, while we still learned about the fae in that region and expanded on what we already knew. Adding Ariadne and Professor Rose also kept the interpersonal conflicts that wouldn’t have been the same after the way Emily and Wendell’s dynamic had changed in the first book, and it was fun to get a glimpse of life at Cambridge in the beginning!

Based on how this book ended, I can only assume the next sequel will be vastly different from these first two books, and I can’t wait to see how Emily’s actions impacted Wendell’s kingdom and how different it might be when they go back!

This book was incredible. I think I loved it more than the first, and I LOVED the first book. The buildup to Emily eventually going to Wendell's realm to save him from the poison with his cat?!?! I love that so much. Also, I adore the grumpy/sunshine troupe so much and they fit it so well. Like it makes me happy. I also loved the difference in the towns they went to between this book and the first. St. Liesl had a much stronger and intimate connection with the fae and I thought that was really interesting and really played into the urgency of the book and a lot of the actions that Emily, Wendell, Rose and Ariadne did, also played into that, especially when it came to the treatment of the fae. I loved this book so much though and I cannot wait to see what happens to Emily and Wendell in the future!

You can pry the finished copy of this book, when I get it, out of my cold, dead, hands. I loved the first book in the series and recommend it to everyone, and this one will be following the first installment in that line.

Emily Wildes Map of the Otherlands.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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Thank you so much to Random House Publishing Group for giving me the opportunity to read an arc of Emily Wildes Map of the Otherlands! The second installment in the Emily Wilde series.
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I feel like Heather Fawcetts writing style is so wonderfully unique, I could pick it out without even knowing it was by her at this point. This is true storytelling- a charming, whimsy, academic approach to The Folk.
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As I said in my original review for book one, I think it is something to get used to. I have a “voice” in my head for these books, and while reading Encyclopedia of Faeries initially took me a moment to find it- I was quickly able to jump back into that head voice when I began Map of the Otherlands. It was a delight to be back in Emily’s head.
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I absolutely think that book two has elevated these characters and the story. There was more action, the plot has more depth, is more streamlined. You have new characters, and the return of old ones we have learned to love. (Poe is probably one of the cutest characters ever written and I adore him!)
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Emily Wilde continues to be a quirky but intelligent, charming and interesting, good humored and hearted series that I will continue to keep my eye on!

This is my most anticipated read of 2024. So when I got approved for an ARC of this baby, I screamed (internally because I was at work, but the thought and enthusiasm was there). And this book did. not. disappoint. I love Emily and Wendell just as much as I did in book one. Honestly, maybe more! The storyline is phenomenal. And I just love how this book (and series!) is both dark and ridiculous at the same time. It’s such whimsical fun. I can’t remember the last time I’ve loved a series so much.

Also, can we talk about the writing? It’s laugh out loud funny and soothing at the same time. The character development is *chef’s kiss* (yes, even for Wendell). If you’re wondering if you should read this book, the answer is yes.

4.75 Stars!--Emily Wilde's Encylopaedia of Faeries was one of my top reads of 2022/2023. I loved the tone and plot and was SO excited it was going to be a series. I was even more excited that I got the chance to read Emily Wilde's Map of the Otherlands early! It did not disappoint and I savored being back into this world again.

We follow Emily Wilde and Wendell Bambleby's adventures about a year after book 1. Emily is working on her next project, a collection of maps of the Otherlands. But Emily and Wendell's field excursions have a dual purpose: they're searching for a nexus to Wendell's homelands. We meet a lot of new characters, human and fae alike and it was JUST as charming as the first.

As an academic girlie myself, I loved the use of footnotes. The blend of academic scholarship, field studies, and fantasy elements just scratched my brain the perfect way. I really relate to Emily and we see her character develop into someone who is working on being more self aware and in-tune with her emotions. I adored the cameo of Poe and thought the addition of Snowbell was great.

Wendell and Emily's relationship builds upon the friendship, respect, and good-natured teasing that was developed in book one. Wendell is just as charming and even more endearing; I so enjoyed Emily being more receptive to Wendell, on her terms and timeline of course! :)

The plot was certainly interesting. It takes a certain controversy from a footnote or two in book 1 and makes it a central piece of the plot for this book. See my full goodreads review for spoilers!

Overall, I just really love this world. I think it captures light academia in a whimsy fantasy setting so well. The characters really carry the tale and I so hope there's going to be more from this world and from Emily and Wendell!

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this advanced review copy. It did not affect my review in any way. All opinions are my own.

(My review has been posted to my Goodreads and instagram accounts.)

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this advance reader's copy. I am so incredibly happy to have been able to read this early. When I finished the second one, I couldn't wait for the next, and now after finishing this one, I'm really really hoping for another. I have to know what happens next. I love this world created by the author. I love Wendell and Shadow. (Nothing better ever happen to Shadow.) This book pulled me in and I couldn't stop til I was done. I will recommend this to all of my friends.

In the second book in the Emily Wilde series, Emily is determined to help Wendell Brambley, her friend and fellow scholar, find the lost door to his faerie kingdom. He was overthrown by his stepmother when his father died and fled to the human world. He must find a door to his kingdom if he wants to overthrow her. Especially since she is now sending assassins to Cambridge to get him out of the way.

Emily is a genius at research and has decided to follow the path of noted scholar Danielle De Grey who disappeared in the Austrian Alps while searching for a faerie door. The need is urgent because one of the assassins managed to poison Wendell causing his magic to become unreliable.

Besides Wendell, along on the journey are Emily's niece and assistant Ariadne and her department chair Dr. Farris Rose. And, of course, Emily's dog and grim Shadow is along with them too. After making their way to the Alps they discover that the area is littered with doors and the various creatures that make use of them. finding the correct door, the one that leads to Wendell's kingdom, isn't going to be an easy task especially since Wendell is getting weaker with every day that passes.

It will be up to Emily to enter into Wendell's kingdom alone to retrieve the object that can cure him of the poison that is killing him without becoming enchanted herself. And why not take care of the evil stepmother and get material for several scientific papers at the same time?

The worldbuilding is wonderfully creative in this story, which is told through Emily's journals, completer with footnotes. There were so many wonderful creatures and situations. I greatly enjoyed Emily who is a focused scholar and very single-minded about her research. I liked her awkwardness when she needs to step out of place as a scholar.