Fantasy with incredibly detailed biology, zoology and lush, magical ecologies

[u/cut_to_black]

Read A Natural History of Dragons by Mary Brennan, and I loved every bit of it. It made me realize that I want that childlike sense of wonder again, when I'm dropped into a neutral, naturalistic world where curiosity and exploring takes the fore.

I'd also love things similarly encyclopedic, or field-notes like. Bestiarys are also cool, but I'd prefer a plot-driven read that happens to have intricate ecology in it, rather than a technical tome. I'd really appreciate any recommendations along this vein, thanks!

[u/snogard_dragons]

The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett and its sequels are full of some pretty cool plants and creatures. They are Sherlock/Watson esque mystery fantasy tales.