Title: Legends & Lattes
Author: Travis Baldree
Genre: Fantasy, Fiction
Number of Pages: 304
My Rating: 💋💋💋💋💋
Book Summary:
After a lifetime of bounties and bloodshed, Viv is hanging up her sword for the last time.
The battle-weary orc aims to start fresh, opening the first ever coffee shop in the city of Thune. But old and new rivals stand in the way of success — not to mention the fact that no one has the faintest idea what coffee actually is.
If Viv wants to put the blade behind her and make her plans a reality, she won’t be able to go it alone.
But the true rewards of the uncharted path are the travelers you meet along the way. And whether drawn together by ancient magic, flaky pastry, or a freshly brewed cup, they may become partners, family, and something deeper than she ever could have dreamed.
My Thoughts:
Absolutely LOVED it! I really couldn’t put this book down to be completely honest. I think I read it in just a few days, which is a rarity for me when it comes to novels. It was the first novel of Travis Baldree’s that I had read and so glad that I did. It captivates you right from the start and the pace of the book flows so effortlessly. It’s fun, cozy and you really fall in love with each character in their own way.
Viv is a battle-worn Orc that longs for a peace, quiet and simplicity. After years of battles and mercenary work, she is ready to finally pursue her dream- to open up a coffee shop. And she had found just the place to do it – in the city of Thune. She even acquired the Scalvert’s Stone which is an artifact that is said to bring good fortune and attract those who share the owner’s desires. Just to make sure that everything went in her favour, she needed an “insurance” policy so to speak. No one could really blame her, especially when no one in that city—let alone that part of the world—had ever heard of coffee before.
First order of business was fixing up the joint and she knew just where to look, down at the docks. She spots a hard-working Hob whose name we learn is Calamity (AKA Cal). Viv quickly learns that he’s not only hard-working, but blunt, practical and trust-worthy. Oh did I mention he’s a big softie on the inside? He becomes a vital ally and friend to Viv and to her success.
With the shop is happily on it’s way, Viv decides she would like to hire a little bit of help. So when she put up the help wanted sign, she didn’t expect much however she hoped for the best. Her luck persisted and in walked Tandri – a succubus with an artsy side and an eye for marketing. Tandri quickly becomes entwined in Viv’s life and the business, becoming a friend and partner….in more ways than one.
And every good coffee shop needs a baker right? Well, we find that in our soft-spoken Ratkin who we know and love as Thimble. He was first introduced as a customer, eagerly coming back day after day for his coffee fix. But with suggestions from fellow patrons regarding food, Viv had a mind to speak to Thimble. She approached him and he happily agreed to help out Viv in the baking department. It wasn’t until the next day when he brought over warm cinnamon buns. Needless to say, Thimble became a permanent fixture in the kitchen and would essentially get whatever he wanted. From Cinnamon rolls, to Thimblets to Midnight Crescents, there was no stopping his genius as long as he had his coffee in hand, he was a happy camper! Can you tell I adore Thimble?
Pendry, though a minor character, eventually befriends Viv and becomes the entertainment in the coffee shop. Shy, sweet and musically ahead of his time. He slowly grows a fan base after Viv’s encouragement and he quickly gets over her “stage fright”. A nice little addition to the shop.
Hemington, another minor character, is a local scholar who just loiters about in a booth at the back of the coffee shop, who studies and jots notes constantly. Purchase-adverse at first until the ladies find something for his liking, along with Thimble’s baked goods. He ends up being a big help to Viv with his knowledge of magic and leylines.
And every cozy coffee shop needs a pet and boy, did they get one! In saunters the beautiful Dire-cat named Amity. No one really knows where the cat came from, all they know is it likes to hang around the shop. And who are they to deny the Dire-cat a little comfort and some protection for themselves.
But don’t forget some of Viv’s old rough around the edges comrades; Gallina – the feisty little Gnome who is eager for a fight, Roon – the helpful, loyal, protective and funny Dwarf and Taivus – the quiet, mysterious, logical Stone-fey.
With all these wonderful characters surrounding Viv, you would think trouble wouldn’t come crawling into her new life, right? What would a good book be without a little bit of trouble.
With Viv’s experience as a sword for hire, she knows to keep her wits about her, to be logical before just swinging at times and to have a take-no-shit attitude. Which all serve her well when others within the city and from her past life begin to cause a few problems.
But like all heroes and dreamers, the story has a pretty great ending to it. A dream come true and she even improved the community in her own way. But she truly couldn’t have done it without her circle of friends and in turn, she helps them to see their potential and self-worth.
Truly the ultimate cozy fantasy novel and one I do highly recommend to read. I promise you won’t put it down!
Hope you enjoyed the review!
Ciao!
Mama on the Move 
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