4.28 AVERAGE


I was so excited for the arrival of this book - the third entry in the Tomes and Tea series and the first one to be introduced as a traditionally published volume.

Reyna and Kianthe are planning their wedding - but they are also plotting something much grander. We’re back in Tawney again, which really benefits the storytelling - so much of the foundation of this series is based on everything about Tawney, so the return is very welcome.

All of our favorite characters from the first two books are back - and we get one of the benefits of being deep into a series, which is getting deeper into the lives, stories and motivations of all of the characters. I do wish that some of the characters got a deeper dive - but I don’t see that as a flaw, more of me loving everyone and wanting to know everything about everyone.

The story plays out really organically in a way that flows nicely from start to finish - this is a cozy fantasy book, so while there are twists and turns and potential for peril … you know that everything will be just fine in the end. But within those confines there is plenty of action and intrigue.

Some of the best touches were going back in time to reinvestigate and look deeper into Reyna’s and Kianthe’s histories - not just the facts and timelines, but the relationships and feelings that led them to where they are now.

Third books in four book series seem a special challenge in the continued development of plot and character while also pushing towards the conclusion. Tea You at the Altar does a great job of navigating all of that, but there are issues in the middle of the book where the pacing in particular feels uneven. Fortunately it quickly resolves as we hit the third act and from there it is impossible to put down!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book even while it had some pacing issues in the middle - if you have started and are having those concerns, keep going because pretty soon you won’t be able to put it down. And because it is the penultimate entry, we get a fun cliffhanger that makes me totally excited for the conclusion to the series - and continue my absolute love for everything Rebecca Thorne writes!
adventurous emotional funny hopeful fast-paced
adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
adventurous funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
fast-paced
adventurous funny lighthearted tense medium-paced
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Reyna and Kianthe are preparing for their long-awaited wedding.  However, their plans are complicated by mischievous baby dragons, unexpected visits from Kianthe's parents, and a secret plot to overthrow Queen Tilaine.  As the big day approaches, the couple must navigate personal and political challenges to make it to the altar.  
I absolutely adore this series, and Tea You at the Altar was a delightful continuation of Reyna and Kianthe's journey.  Their relationship remains the heart of the story, showcasing their deep bond and mutual support amidst chaos.  The blend of cozy fantasy elements with higher stakes kept me thoroughly engaged. 
The addition of new characters, like the lost princess Tessalyn and her protector James, enriched the narrative and added fresh dynamics to the story.  The balance between lighthearted moments and serious undertones was well-executed, making this installment my favorite so far.  
I can't wait for the next book in the series to see where Reyna and Kianthe's adventures take them next.  If you're a fan of cozy fantasy with strong character development and a touch of political intrigue, this series is a must-read. 
A perfect blend of warmth, adventure, and heartfelt moments.

adventurous funny fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
adventurous funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

A very fun romp, lovely cozy continuation of the series. Honestly, I think this particular books does a fine job displaying the author's improvement in hitting story beats, when and how to apply a twist on a trope. Sometimes it feels a bit clunky, including all the beats for different characters and pairings, but it's more tolerable, now.

We are deviating a bit here from what I liked about the series
I do not personally resonate with the lost-faith journey and really question the choice to raise Reyna to a high political power
nevertheless, it’s still a cozy sapphic fantasy with tea and tomes and dragons so for that 3 stars
adventurous funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No