Legends & Lattes #1
Light, straightforward, and exceedingly well-written, Legends & Lattes wasn’t over-complicated with excessive layers. It had lots of well-developed characters, a good story arc, and a warm, fuzzy ending. It’s definitely a cozy romance with a bit of zero-angst drama thrown in.
Thimble was one of my favourite characters. His fantastic descriptions of his creations made my mouth water and made me wish for my own delicious fresh pastries and baked goods. Curmudgeonly Cal was another strong supporting character.
I did wish for a little more backstory. Everything felt a little easy, a little too light. It was overwhelming when Viv’s community stepped up for her, especially since they let her feel her feelings without shame or judgment.
The format did remind me of an RPG. As you go through an RPG, your character levels up skills, you enhance your equipment, and, depending on the RPG, your relationships level up too. The story is very methodical, focusing on one primary goal at a time. Not that there aren’t lurking threats or side ‘quests,’ but it’s pretty direct.
Legends & Lattes is a perfect palate cleanser. It’s light and airy, and the ending is very satisfying. I’m always happy to have books like this on my reading list.
I’m looking forward to Bookshops & Bonedust, the prequel to Legends & Lattes, which should be released shortly! Hopefully, it will provide more insight into Viv’s backstory.
Characters
Viv – Orc mercenary. Made the score of a life time, and decided to retire to open a coffee shop. She is smart, very business savvy and kind.
Cal – Hob carpenter commissioned to help build Val’s shop. Doesn’t speak much, comes across as brusque and gruff.
Tandri – Succubus artist. Friendly and outgoing, Tandri really suits her role.
Thimble – Ratkin baker extraordinaire. Everything he bakes sounds delicious. Quiet, but comes across as more nervous or shy, unless he’s talking about baking.
Pendry – Entry level bard. Perhaps a bit too creative, Pendry is hesitant to be fully authentic as a musician/entertainer.
Amity – dire-cat that can’t be predicted, but can be relied upon
Fennus – Val’s old mercenary colleague.
Links
thestorygraph
Travis Baldree’s website
Travis Baldree reviews on sloreads.ca
Publication Info
Publisher: Tor Books
First Published: February 22 2022
Format: e-book
Source: Library
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Queer
Sub Genre: High Fantasy, Cozy Fantasy, Sapphic
Series: Legends & Lattes
Tropes: found family, slice of life, friends to lovers
Locations: Thune