By Megan Coote, Tessa Thejas Thomas
As we transition into the autumn season, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of curling up with a blanket and a hot drink in hand and diving into a cosy fantasy book. The fantasy genre is as popular as ever, and the book covers are often as magical and alluring as the stories inside. The otherworldly nature of the genre allows cover designers to get creative. In this issue, we have curated a selection of captivating cover designs from the fantasy genre, whether you’re looking for a darker fantasy or magical romance, these are sure to inspire you this season.
A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid
A Study in Drowning is an enchanting dark academia fantasy novel that blends gothic fiction, dark academia and romance, in particular, the enemies-to-lovers trope. The story follows Effy Sayre, a young architecture student haunted by visions of the Fairy King since childhood. She is given the chance to redesign the estate of her favourite author, Myrddin, whose work has long provided solace. However, when Effy arrives at the crumbling manor, sinister magical forces lurk in the shadows.
The book's cover design perfectly represents the story's themes. The dark background with contrasting gold accents creates that magical yet gothic feel. At the top of a cliff is an illustration of a house, likely representing Hiraeth Manor, the story's central setting. The book pages blowing into the crashing waves can be associated with Effy and fellow scholar Preston's studies and the late author Myrddin's writing, to whom the estate belonged. The typography is elegant with a calligraphic quality, tying back to the literary themes of academia and storytelling that are central to the book. Overall, the cover effectively combines gothic fiction and fantasy, setting the book's tone.
Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett
Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett follows a dedicated scholar and expert in faerie folklore, Emily Wilde. Her work takes her to a remote northern village, where she aims to complete a comprehensive encyclopaedia of faeries. The story is filled with magic, mystery and a touch of romance, making it the perfect seasonal read.
The cover beautifully captures the essence of the book as the design is warm and inviting with just a touch of magic. The parchment-like texture used for the design gives it a scholarly and historical feel, reflecting Emily’s academic pursuits. At the centre is an open book, whose pages transform into an enchanting array of plant life and mushrooms, surrounded by golden sparkles.
This imagery directly reflects Emily’s expertise in faerie studies and connection to nature. The design invites potential readers into a world where nature and enchantment intertwine. The whimsical elements and earthy tones used evoke an autumnal atmosphere, perfectly aligning with the book’s theme, making this the ideal cosy addition to your autumn reading list.
The Tea Dragon Society by K. O'Neill
The Tea Dragon Society by K. O'Neill is a wonderful, cosy fantasy option for those looking to dig into something different this autumn. This warm, illustrated novel follows Greta as she learns about the dying art form of tea dragon caretaking after encountering a tea dragon herself. Her journey learning this art brings her into the lives of many other fantastical characters who were impacted by tea dragon caretaking.
The cover, created by self-taught writer and illustrator K. O'Neill, depicts two of the characters on a picnic. They are surrounded by branches, leaves and tiny flowers. The foliage frames the cover and draws your eye to the characters in the middle of the scene. They appear to be in their own little world, drinking tea and playing with a small dragon. The earthy colours, nature illustrations and overarching cover design match the typical cosy fantasy aesthetic, portraying a sense of whimsy and warmth. The aroma of the tea floats away into the distance, matching the script-like font used for the title.
The Tea Dragon Society is a great read for all ages who are looking for a feel-good story with beautiful illustrations to whisk you away into a magical world this autumn. Why not curl up with some soothing tea whilst you are reading as well? In K. O'Neill's own words, "My stories focus on young characters learning about themselves and their strengths, protecting and finding their place in the world around them, and feature various kinds of relationships. With a gentle fantasy slice-of-life setting, I hope they will be enjoyed by readers of all ages."
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