The Daxaria Universe: Recommended Reading Order
For the best reading experience, it is highly recommended to read Delemhach's flagship Daxaria books in the order they were published. Because the story spans generations and features interconnected character arcs, following the publication timeline prevents major spoilers, explains recurring jokes, and lets you witness the evolution of the Ashowan family. Here is the recommended path through the world of Daxaria:
Phase 1: The House Witch Trilogy (Finlay's Story)
This is the perfect entry point. It introduces Daxaria, the magical court politics, and the beloved royal cook and house witch, Finlay Ashowan, alongside his mischievous feline familiar, Kraken.
- The House Witch (also known as The House Witch and the Enchanting of the Hearth) (2022)
- The House Witch 2 (also known as The House Witch and the Charming of Austice) (2022)
- The House Witch 3 (also known as The House Witch and When the Cat Spells War) (2023)
Phase 2: The Transition Novella
Set two decades after the events of the original trilogy, this book acts as a semi-sequel and bridges the gap between the generation of Finlay and his children.
- The Princess of Potential (2023) – This cozy romance follows Princess Alina of Daxaria as she seeks a consort, featuring Finlay, Annika, their children, and Kraken in supporting roles.
Phase 3: The Burning Witch Trilogy (Katarina's Story)
This spin-off trilogy centers on Katarina Ashowan, Finlay's fiery daughter, who possesses a much more destructive magical affinity than her father's cozy hearth spells.
- The Burning Witch (2023)
- The Burning Witch 2 (2024)
- The Burning Witch 3 (2024)
Phase 4: The Ether Witch Trilogy (Tamlin's Story)
Focusing on Finlay's guarded and mysterious son, Tamlin Ashowan, this trilogy explores the subtleties of ether magic and continues the family legacy.
- The Ether Witch: The Casting Call (2025)
- The Ether Witch: Confronting the Crafty Concubine (2025)
- The Ether Witch: The Divining of a Devil (2026)
A New Cozy Horizon: The Magic Dues Trilogy
If you are looking for a fresh start outside the Daxaria universe, Delemhach has introduced a brand-new cozy romantic fantasy series. Previously known under the working title The Delicacy of Magic Debt, this trilogy is entirely separate from the Ashowan family tree, making it a great alternative starting point for readers new to the author's style.
- The Dues & Don'ts of Magic (2026) – Follows Spidena Kettle, a quiet magic shop owner whose life is turned upside down when a fugitive named Benthrop Hozel enters her shop seeking to be forgotten.
Publication Order vs. Chronological Order
In Delemhach's universe, chronological order matches publication order perfectly. Because the timeline progresses naturally—starting with Finlay's early career in Daxaria, jumping twenty years to Princess Alina's story, and continuing with the adult lives of Finlay's children (Katarina and Tamlin)—you do not have to worry about complicated timelines, prequels, or flash-forwards. Simply start at the beginning of The House Witch and read forward to get the most chronological and emotional satisfaction.
What to Know Before You Start
Delemhach (the pen name of Canadian author Emilie Nikota) started her writing journey on Royal Road. Her style blends elements of domestic cozy fantasy, low-stakes political intrigue, slow-burn romance, and lighthearted comedy. While the stakes do rise as the trilogies progress—especially in the action-oriented The Burning Witch—the books retain a heartwarming focus on found family and everyday comfort. If you enjoy works by T.J. Klune, Travis Baldree, or Heather Fawcett, Delemhach's cozy magical kitchens will feel like home.