A review by jennifermreads
Can't Spell Treason Without Tea by Rebecca Thorne

adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.75

A cozy, sweet, adventurous story with plenty of tea and tomes references to keep reader fangirls satisfied—and longing for a cup of tea to accompany the read. 

When I finished Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea, I hemmed and hawed about whether I’d continue reading the series. I definitely felt the cozy vibes and saw plot points that I loved and were similar to the ones in Travis Baldree’s Legends & Lattes and am glad Rebecca Thorne gave Baldree a nod in her acknowledgments. If I was sure that the second book, A Pirate’s Life for Tea focused on Reyna and Kianthe, I probably would read it. But, with the epilogue in Treason hinting heavily that it will focus on Serina and Bobbie, I’m not eager to purchase a copy nor am I racing to get it at the library. 

In 2025, I am reading off-my-shelf with the intent of keeping the books I love and treasure and passing along the ones that I do not see myself picking up again or thinking fondly of each time I see it on my shelf. While I enjoyed Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea and adored the cozy sapphic vibes, I think this sweet story is going to go give another reader some joy rather than reside on my shelves. I think…I have time to stew on my decision as I’m adding it to the “donate” box but it will be a month or so until I actually do the donating—or stock a little free library. 
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