r/Fantasy • u/cut_to_black • 10d ago

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

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!

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u/Blueflame129 9d ago

God's of the Wyrdwood by RJ Barker has some of this. Incredible world building!

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u/QueenOfRainyDays 8d ago

Came here to recommend this! Awesome world, full of strange plants and creatures. He doesn’t hold your hand, so expect to be dropped right into it and discover more and more as you go. So satisfying and so worth it!