I have a very special relationship with fantasy. It was one of my most beloved genres in my teenage years, and it was the genre that completely rekindled my love for books after a veeeery long drought (the entire first decade of my professional career).
A few years ago, I read a magical series (The Winternight Trilogy by Katherine Arden) that gripped me so heavily that I haven’t looked back since. It was the turning point for me, and now reading with a cup of tea is a daily ritual that I can’t live without. If you need some fantasy recommendations and some accompaniments to make your next reading experience extra-immersive…buckle up!
The Book
The most important accompaniment for the tea - the books!
The Bear and the Nightingale
Katherine Arden
This was the gripping, heartfelt, and magical first book of the series that changed my life (and got me back into reading) for the better. I cannot even begin to describe the bookish rabbit-hole that I fell down after this incredible trilogy.
If you like fairytale retellings, historical fantasies, medieval Russian history, and a kickass FMC, this is the book for you. The magic system, characters and love story were top notch. For an extra immersive experience, read this in the dead of winter!
Dark Rise
C.S. Pacat
C.S. Pacat never fails to write books that leave me with brainrot (in the best way possible). This queer YA fantasy is a trilogy (with two books out) that is set in 1800s London, with a world and magic system that is so immersive that I find myself thinking about it often.
The story has everything: a poor dock boy on the run, historical battles between Light and Dark, interesting religions, magical creatures, cataclysmic romance, archaeological digs (I can’t escape them!), and very smart storytelling. I am truly obsessed and am seriously anticipating the third book.
The Priory of the Orange Tree
Samantha Shannon
A fantasy reading list would not be complete without an epic high fantasy with DRAGONS. This one has everything if you’re into political intrigue, dragon riders, ancient magic, a queendom in turmoil, assassins, complex worldbuilding, and a super satisfying sapphic romance.
I loved the characters and worlds in this epic story. And the personalities of the dragons! Another one for those who like seriously kickass FMC’s.
The Tea
Which tea blends will fuel your next fantasy escapism session?
Autumnal Equinox
This lemongrass and ginger tea is witchy and warming, and was inspired by pagan forest rituals and seasonal magic.
This one pairs perfectly with Katherine Arden’s The Winternight Trilogy.
A Violet Haze
This herbal blend is a bit mysterious and magical, and brews into a vivid violet (nutritious) potion.
It was inspired by fantasy books with ancient magical creatures, and is the perfect accompaniment to C.S. Pacat’s Dark Rise Trilogy.
Journey to the East
This adventurous and epic blend was inspired by Asian mythology and ancient journeys.
It has just a bit of caffeine to fuel your wanderings, and pairs perfectly with Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree.
The Music
This is a bit extra - I have put together some moody lo-fi beats to help you fully immerse yourself in your fantasy reads!
Listen to the Spotify playlist here.
The Place
Here are some ideas for reading locations to really set the scene for your fantasy adventure!
• A wintery cabin retreat in a forest (with a fireplace)
• A historic library reading room
• A forest hike - try adventuring with an audiobook!
• A rug and a pillow pile in front of a fire
The Extras
A reading ritual would not be complete without extra delights to entice the senes. Here are some of my favourites:
The Nibbles
A savoury spread reminiscent of the wandering adventurer’s ration pack, which could include:
• Crusty baguette
• Dips
• Cheeses
• Stuffed mushrooms
• Nuts
• Pickles
• Dried fruit
• Flask of your favourite tea
Aromas
Add to your ambience with smoky incense or candles that smell woody, dreamy, magical, and enchanting. My favourite scents for creating a fantasy reading mood include:
• Sandalwood
• Frankincense
• Cedarwood
• Bergamot
• Orange
• Ginger
• Patchouli
• Buddha Wood
• Vetiver
• Ylang Ylang
• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Pine
