No-Knead Rustic Bread (Traveler’s Ration Bread) Inspired by Emily Wilde’s Map of the Otherlands

Fresh from my kitchen — this no-knead rustic bread is the heart of our Emily Wilde’s Map of the Otherlands book club pairing.

If your idea of adventure comes with a mug of tea, a loyal companion, and something warm baking nearby — welcome to the world of Emily Wilde.

Heather Fawcett’s Emily Wilde series blends cozy academia, fae mischief, and a slow-burn romance. Emily Wilde’s Map of the Otherlands takes things further — with bold exploration and strong found-family vibes, making it ideal for a book club night.

So here’s a rustic, no-knead bread you can share, and some character-inspired dipping oils to match the mood. Warm up, gather your crew, and dive into the adventure.

I named it Traveler’s Ration Bread because it feels like something Emily herself might pack—simple, comforting, and ready for any adventure, whether it’s across the Otherlands or just your kitchen table.

Featured Romantasy Pick

Emily Wilde’s Map of the Otherlands by Heather Fawcett

If you loved Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries (Book 1), this sequel brings more Wendell charm, new realms, and the same found-family warmth.

Buy on Amazon | Shop on Bookshop

Book 2 of the series — new readers can start with Book 1 on Amazon or Book 1 on Bookshop.

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Hosting Essentials

Baking this requires minimal tools — but a Dutch oven helps get that magical crust.

Shop a Dutch Oven · My Go-To Olive Oil · Parchment Paper I Use

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No-Knead Rustic Bread

Traveler’s Ration Bread

(Romantasy Book Club Friendly!)

A cozy, no-knead rustic loaf you can tear and share while you talk fae, portals, and found-family plots.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, fontina, or Gruyère)
• 2 tablespoons chopped rosemary and garlic

Tools I Use

• Dutch oven with lid —
• Large mixing bowl —
• Parchment paper —

As an Amazon affiliate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Cover and let rise at room temperature for 12–18 hours.
4. Fold in cheese, rosemary, and garlic.
5. Preheat oven to 450 °F (230 °C) with a Dutch oven inside.
6. Cut a sheet of parchment paper large enough to line the Dutch oven. Place the dough on the parchment and carefully lower it into the hot pot.
7. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 15 minutes, until golden and crusty.

Serve warm with the dipping oils below.

Character Dipping Oils

Match the flavors to the characters — fun, thematic, and easy to set up.

• Wendell: olive oil + balsamic + honey + thyme.
• Emily: olive oil + rosemary + cracked pepper + sea salt.
• The Otherlands energy: olive oil + chili flakes + smoked paprika.

Book Club Questions

1. What moment made you feel Emily finally trusted her found-family crew?
2. Did the expansion into “otherlands” reduce the cozy feel, or did the relationships keep it grounded?
3. How did Emily and Wendell’s dynamic change from Book 1 to Book 2?
4. Which side character felt most like “found family” to you — and why?
5. If you were invited into Emily’s cottage, what dish would you bring for a welcome supper?

New to the series? Start here:

Buy on Amazon – Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries (Book 1) | Shop on Bookshop – Book 1