I’ve finished my 1st ARC of the year and what a way to start! Emily Wilde #3 is due to be released on the 11th of February & @netgalley & @littlebrownbookgroup_uk were kind enough to let me have an early copy!
Emily Wilde’s Compendium of Lost Tales picks up not long after #2 and Emily & Wendell are settling into life in Wendell’s realm. Our favourite pets Orga & Shadow are still around and provide us some comedy as well as other characters from book #1 & #2 popping up.
Now for the review!
As ever I wish there was more of Emily & Wendell’s romance. It is technically there on the page but I wish it was a bit more than the banter. I love the banter don’t get me wrong but I think I just want a bit MORE.
I do think I like this more than the ones that have come before and I will definitely recommend it!

I'm so sad this series has ended, but what a finale it was. Fawcett perfectly blended the new with the old, allowing us to explore Wendell's realm and learn so many more facts about faerie, whilst giving us plenty of throwbacks to the previous books and I just loved every single second.

Emily has always been a favourite character of mine, and I think that's largely in part to the way we are given her POV. It's the unedited, internal thoughts we see the most, though with Emily these do tend to be what also escape from her mouth, but Fawcett manages to give us so much introspection, whilst still never allowing the story to drag or loose pace in any way. You can really see how much she has grown as a character in this book, but I also love how the most important parts of her, the things that make her uniquely Emily are never seen as something that needs changing. Fawcett allows Emily to remain wholly herself, whilst still giving her room to grow and I have just loved following her on this journey.

Our side cast stays fairly similar to previous books, with the introduction of a few new faces, as well as some old favourites making a re-appearance, Poe is just the best, but I think my standout 'side-character' was Lord Taran, Wendell's Uncle who helped Emily in the previous book. He's really the epitome of this aloof, dangerous fae, and his interactions with Emily managed to have me on edge as well as laughing my head off in equal measure. I think he's more like Emily than any other characters, most happy in the presence of those he loves and not one interested in small talk or politics, and I enjoyed what he brought to the story.

The romance between Emily and Wendell is one thing that has grown on my throughout the series. I didn't love it as much in the first book, but the more time they spend together, the more I found them growing on me. Wendell adored Emily, exactly as she is, and Fawcett does a standout job of showing him as this doting fiance, Emily's every whim catered for, whilst also allowing us to see his fae side creeping through. The intrinsic danger and fickleness that show sometimes. He may have lived in the mortal world for most of his youth, but that does not make him human, and I loved how she allowed this side to be shown. How Emily wasn't some damsel who fell in love with a pretty fae Prince, rather she fell in love despite that. As an academic she knows more than anyone the danger the fae can bring, but she also knows Wendell and knows that, despite how much he may enjoy murder, he would never hurt Emily herself.

Fawcett makes sure to leave no stone un-turned in this finale. While we spend the most time with Wendell in his Kingdom, she also allows us nods and even journey's that take us back to the very first book. Her descriptive writing, as well as how she tells the story really transport us as the readers there. Seemingly in awe and terrified alongside Emily depending on what she is being shown... rolling fields or trees with eyes for leaves. Emily has been saved on more than one occasion by her wits and her studies alone, but Fawcett really leans into it with this book, allowing Emily the chance to show the importance of stories in fae. Fawcett really took me on an emotional roller coaster... I felt like one of Wendells moods, gloriously happy one second and murderous the next, and there were a few moments where I was worried that Emily and Wendell wouldn't get their HEA. It's the perfect blend of character and plot driven and Fawcett manages to keep us entertained on both fronts.

Fawcett has somehow managed to make the coziest of fantasy series, whilst also giving us plenty of peril and danger. It's humorous, it's heartfelt and there are certainly horror elements, but all told through Emily's scholarly viewpoint just add a touch of humour and lightness to the story. It's a series that shows the importance of stories themselves, and I have honestly loved every single second spent in this world, with these characters. Fawcett has absolutely cemented herself as a auto-buy author and I am eager anticipating whatever she brings out next.

This final installment in the Emily Wilde series by Heather Fawcett is a beautiful conclusion to an amazingly whimsical series! Following Emily on her scholarly adventures has been a delight, and I loved experiencing this magical world through her detailed and charming journal entries.

In this book, Emily, Wendell, and Shadow venture into the faerie realm of the Silva Lupi to help Wendell reclaim his throne. The journey is filled with challenges, but Emily’s vast knowledge and scholarly enthusiasm make her the perfect person to tackle them. The story beautifully balances tension, humor, and heartfelt moments.

I thoroughly enjoyed Heather Fawcett’s enchanting writing style and Emily’s unique, spirited voice. The characters were charming and lovable, with even the minor characters leaving a lasting impression.

The whimsical worldbuilding was another standout element, transporting me to vivid and imaginative faerie realms. I couldn’t help but wish I could visit those magical lands myself—though only with Emily as a guide, because I’d certainly get into trouble alone!

I highly recommend this series to readers who enjoy original, whimsical, and magical tales with lovable characters, an endearing romance, and fantastic worldbuilding. It’s a journey that will charm, entertain, and stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.

Big thanks to Little, Brown Book Group UK and Netgalley for providing this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Review shared on:
Goodreads; https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7218203677
thestorygraph; https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews/4e865f15-e33e-4862-b6e3-0d6c63080194

After loving the first two books in this series, this one was still good, but it moved at a much slower pace. The story was very much centered around Emily, and the supporting characters didn’t have much depth.

It was very slow to start but the pacing really picked up in the second half of the book, and it was much more entertaining from there.

While it was a good addition to the series, I must admit I was a little bored at times.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to Orbit and Netgalley for an arc of Emily Wilde's Compendium of Lost Tales! Publishing date 11th Feb 2025!

What can I say about this final installment in this magical series? Like all the other Emily Wilde books this was a fun, whimsy and cosy read. Without giving too much away, I adored how Emily retraced her steps from previous books and past characters reappeared- it felt like all loose ends were addressed. I'm also one for the found family troupe and this definitely delivered that.

Overall, I wouldn't say this was the best one in the series (the first book will always be my favourite) however I adored the story and the usual whimsy element in these books. Would recommend to anyone who loves a cosy fantasy read!

Cannot wait to see where the author goes next- she will always be on my autobuy list!

An enjoyable end to one of my favourite trilogies of recent years! Though this book is probably the weakest of the 3, it still contains the heart and warmth that made me fall in love with the books from the first page.

I would have loved to have read this but there was a technical glitch with the kindle download and I cannot read via the app as the writing is too small.

4.5⭐️
I have put off writing this review for so long because I am struggling with what to say. I am honestly unsure if it is my least favourite in the series (but still amazing guys!!) because the pacing is off somehow and I can't quite pinpoint where or how exactly, or if it is because that reading this book was bittersweet as I knew it was the last book and didn't want my time with Emily and Wendell to end.

I struggle with endings so much - to the point that I have not watched the last season of many many shows I am obsessed with because then I can keep pretending they haven't ended. I know, I'm strange and delusional.

I was so so so excited for this book and I adored my time with these characters, getting to see Wendell's kingdom and watching the relationship between Emily and Wendell continue and flourish in the faerie lands! It was a brilliant instalment to the Emily Wilde series!

But whilst I truly did love this book so so so much (although book 2 is still my fav, then book 1, then this one last but by no means least), there was just something about it that didn't hold the same magic as the first two books for me. Again, I am still trying to work out if that is something in the book, or if it is entirely my fault and because I was aware it was the end and mourning the end even whilst reading it, which very likely could have coloured my view of the book.

I do also listen to the audiobooks after publication as well (I read this as a netgalley arc ahead of publication), so I will see if that feeling lingers after listening to it and absorbing the story twice. If it doesn't then I know it was my own emotions and sadness at this beloved series ending that caused the "issue" for me and nothing to do with the book's pacing (or whatever else it might have been). So I will update this later on after I listen to the audiobook!

Let me start by saying that while this third installment wasn’t my favorite in the series, it still delivered a delightful journey worth diving into for fans of Emily and Wendell.

Picking up right where the second book left off, the story sets out with promise but initially stumbles. For the first 30-40%, the pace dragged, and I found myself questioning whether anything was actually *happening*. Emily herself felt a bit off—too shy and self-conscious as she faced the Silva Lupi court. It was a far cry from the passionate, pragmatic scholar I’ve grown to love.

But fear not! Once you push past that slow start, things *finally* pick up. Emily reclaims her spark, diving back into her role as the determined academic, unraveling folklore and forgotten tales to tackle the curse plaguing Wendell’s kingdom. That’s when the magic really comes alive again.

Now, let’s talk about Emily and Wendell. I missed their signature banter, which is such a hallmark of this series. Wendell, ever the gloriously vainglorious beam of sunlight (with a side of chaos), felt almost sidelined in the first half, and the two didn’t spend much time together. But the final quarter of the book more than made up for it, bringing back their delightful dynamic. Wendell’s letters to Emily were an absolute highlight—adorable, heartwarming, and so very *him*. His unwavering affection for Emily, mixed with his charm and occasional flair for drama, reminded me why he’s one of my favorite characters in fiction.

And can we take a moment to appreciate Orga and Shadow? Whether you’re a cat or dog lover, their distinct and endless love for their humans/fae will absolutely melt your heart. They’re the unsung heroes of this series.

While *Compendium of Lost Tales* didn’t quite reach the heights of the first two books for me, it still offered an engaging, cozy adventure. The fairytale vibes and light academia aesthetic remain as enchanting as ever, and I wholeheartedly recommend this series to anyone looking for a whimsical escape.

Absolutely fantastic! Great characters that I adored. What a great 3rd book in the series. Emily holds a special place in my heart and is easily one of my fav FMCS. It’s not quite as special as the first two books but nonetheless I adored this. Thank you so much for the ARC!

If you want feel wrapped up, cozy under a heavy blanket next to a crackling fire, smelling the faint scent of the forest just outside your door - but with a dash of adventure - then this is the series for you. Absolutely heartwarming and steeped in folklore and academia, the third installment in the series - Compendium - comes out on February 11, and I definitely recommend adding it to your TBR because the hype is real

I read the entire series over the holiday break and was fortunate enough to be granted this review copy by LL O N prior to its publication date, and I’m so grateful. Due to it’s inherently cozy nature, I’ll always associate Emily with the winter season. Truthfully, I’ll likely end up rereading it every winter - it’s that comforting yet compelling simultaneously.

Compendium starts off slow but in a cozy way, sprinkling in a familiar cast of characters in Emily’s world that I have come to love like my own family. Curses, familial rifts, and fighting for a realm - all whilst recording events as a scholar - make this a compulsive read.

This is the perfect whimsical story with a streak of dark, bloody fantasy. I’d definitely classify this as “light academia,” starring faeries of all sorts and charming characters. Compendium continues the current of romance that’s blossomed from pure respect and time running underneath. The serious / sunshine character trope is executed here almost effortlessly but also realistically.

I am ever so grateful for this review copy and can’t wait to buy the finished book to add to my shelves upon release.

I have to admit, I was initially drawn to this series by the irresistibly adorable covers—but the story inside did not disappoint! If you’ve already fallen in love with the first two books, you’ll be delighted to dive back into Emily and Wendell’s witty banter and the richly crafted world.

In this third installment, I especially enjoyed exploring the intricacies of Wendell’s fairy court through Emily’s scholarly perspective. The worldbuilding continues to be top-notch, offering new layers to this enchanting universe. While the pace of the adventure starts off a bit slower compared to the previous books, it still unfolds in a satisfying and engaging way that kept me hooked until the end.

A big thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

Thank you NetGalley and Little Brown for granting me an arc in exchange of an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Deep down I knew wasn't ready to say goodbye to Emily and dear old Wendell, but the (at this point we could even call it visceral) need to read more about them was stronger than ever.

The start of this book wasn't as gripping as the other two for me, but still after passing the first 20-ish percent I was immersed back into the amazing fantasy of Fawcett, never wanting to leave. Wendell's realm literally comes out of a dream. From mesmerizing forests, passing through viridian plains and ending towards the border. I loved the comebacks that certain characters had, to have old faces reappear made me infinitely happily.

As always there wasn't a single character that I actually hate like the last times, while the only thing I would have truly wanted was having like in the last two books a couple (even one, I would have loved having only one) chapter from Wendell's perspective. Orga and Shadow still being at odds with each other (well if it's not Wendell Orga will have beef with anyone) made me both smile and grumble for poor Shadow.

The book was medium paced, which I liked. The story perse was cute, but I adored as always how Emily's knowledge was proven vital once more and now I can only imagine how those two will try and rule over the kingdom together.

4.3⭐️ 0🌶️

Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group for providing me with an eARC of this book!

This series has genuinely been such a favorite for me since I read the first 2 books a year ago. Emily and Wendell are truly peak grumpy/sunshine and I love them together so much. Their interactions were by far the best part of this book.

This book, while I still loved it, didn’t quite hit the highs of the previous 2 for me. I think that largely had to do with the plot/setting. The first 2 books took place in a human village that had great casts (including faeries) and a sense of discovery and development. They were so charming and warm and the peak of cozy fantasy.

I think because this book took place mostly in Faerie, it lost a bit of the charm. The characters we met in Faerie didn’t get huge amounts of development like the humans in past books. Therefore, I didn’t quite care about them as much. The plot was interesting and had lots of fun throwbacks. But again just didn’t hit the same heights.

I still loved this book and this whole series and would 100% recommend them to anyone. Emily and Wendell will forever have my heart.

This final installment in the Emily Wilde series can leave a bittersweet feeling behind. While I'm sad to say goodbye to this charming world and its delightful characters, I'm also incredibly grateful for the journey. Heather's writing is consistently witty and engaging, and this book is no exception. The humor throughout, from the witty banter between Emily and Wendell to the quirky observations about the faerie world, kept me thoroughly entertained. I particularly enjoyed seeing how much Emily has grown since the first book, blossoming into a confident and capable young woman. It was heartwarming to witness her friendships deepen and to see her navigate the challenges of her new role with grace and humor. Wendell, ever the charming and supportive partner, remains a beloved character. The ending, while bittersweet, felt appropriate for this series. It was open-ended enough to leave room for imagination, allowing readers to envision their own happy endings for Emily and Wendell, while also providing a satisfying sense of closure.


Little, Brown Book Group UK | Orbit, NetGalley, and the editorial team - thanks for giving me the opportunity to review an audiobook ARC of this publication!

Estimated publication date: 11 Feb 2025

For more reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads!

#EmilyWildesCompendiumofLostTales #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning

Firstly, thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for this eARC!

I’m so sad that this trilogy is over. It’s been so nice coming back to this world for the last couple of years and I’m going to miss Emily and Wendell greatly, as well as the characters we’ve come to know along the way. It took me a while to read, partially because I didn’t want to say goodbye.

I really enjoyed the subtle romance in this book, especially when you consider how Emily has grown since book 1. It was also nice seeing her continuing friendships with old friends who made an appearance as well.

It was a nice ending to a lovely cozy series and I felt happy for Emily, Wendell and Shadow to be continuing their journey together, although sad that we are not going with them. Finally - thank you, Heather, for creating this world. ❤️

As with the previous two books, I absolutely flew through this. So fast paced, so hard to put down - even in ebook form. The characters are witty and real as always; especially Olga and Shadow my favs. Lots of unexpected moments and overall a very satisfying read!

Thank you NetGalley and Orbit Books for my advanced copy, these are my thoughts:

This was the best way to conclude this trilogy!

I have no idea how so much was packed into 368 pages and at the same time, I didn’t feel like it was all crammed together.

I loved seeing characters from the previous books make an appearance. It was heartwarming to see how introverted and somewhat antisocial Emily from book 1, grew so much over these three books, making friends and bonds with people who truly cared about her and her well-being.

The humor in this book - like in the other two, was so good! I laughed so much!

Wendell - always the charmer and ever caring and loving of Emily, he tried his best to keep her happy, since she’d essentially uprooted her life for him. And Emily, even though she didn’t believe it, she was the perfect Queen for Wendell.

The ending was befitting of Emily and Wendell - not cliché and open in a way that you just knew they had the whole world at their disposal; with endless possibilities and adventures, but you didn’t feel the need to follow them. You just felt happy for them.

I read this together with a friend - the same one I’d read the other two books with, making this series all the more special.

I’m so sad I’ve finished this book 😓 Emily Wilde’s compendium of lost tales is the third, and final book, in this cozy fantasy series following Emily, a dryadologist at the university of Cambridge, and Wendell her former academic rival who turned out to be a faerie prince. Throughout this series we’ve seen Emily gather information and facts for her encyclopaedia of faeries, her mapbook and now her compendium of tales, whilst fighting of vindictive and cruel folk who wish them harm. We’ve visited far off places, and of course the otherlands, the faerie realms. I’ve loved exploring the world through Emilys eyes, my straight forward and non apologetic queen (definitely on the spectrum), and through my quirky, charming and utterly sarcastic fae prince, Wendell. They are such an unlikely pair, but fit so incredibly well together. If you loved The Cruel prince trilogy, this is definitely for you. The brutality and politics of that series, paired with light academia, and characters that are incredibly funny without being aware of it. In this third installment they faced of against the greatest threat of the trilogy, and it was truly a roller coaster of a journey. Definitely the highest stakes of the entire trilogy, so much happens that you’re left wondering how this will all end…Such a wonderful conclusion, and book. Thank you for having me on this journey Heather 🙏🏼

I’m not ready to say goodbye…💔

🍄 Emily Wilde’s Compendium of Lost Tales • Heather Fawcett 🍄
★★★★

Read if you enjoy:
🍄 Romantasy
🍄 Cosy light academia
🍄 Fairytales
🍄 Epistolary writing

Emily and Wendell have found his kingdom, and now it’s time to take his throne. Which was much more easily done than they had prepared for. Until they realise that Wendell’s evil stepmother has placed a deadly curse on the land.

The first two books in this series gained an easy five stars from me. They were fun, action packed, and full of wit and canniness. This installment I award a generous four stars to. Despite its original and continuing charm, and the incredible writing, the actual plot of this book seems like it could have been extended onto book two rather than given its own book. A lot of this books sequencing felt like filler.