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A review by adrians_library
Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-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? No
5.0
I enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would to be quite honest. I was expecting to read a book about an orc who opens a coffee shop with a comedic tone but what I got was so much better
than I could have hoped for.
This book, at its core, was about the importance of support systems and self care. While it was light-hearted as a whole, it had some incredibly insightful passages discussing work-life balance, self worth, personal growth and evolution, and the power of friendship and found family.
Again, this novel did focus primarily on the inner workings of the Legends & Lattes cafe, but it is clear that the author put a great deal of thought and love into the world building when discussing the magic system through Hem’s character, or showing the wide range of creatures and races when addressing Viv’s past as someone who is well traveled and well read.
I really enjoyed how this book managed to subvert expectations at nearly every turn. Starting the
book, I was expecting the Madrigal to be the “big bad” of the story, only for the conflict to be resolved with weekly payments of cinnamon buns. This dedication to non-violent conflict resolution, as well as the continued effort to maintain a peaceful life on Viv’s part, is really beautiful. She is not what she has always been, people are capable of change and growth.
Probably my favorite part of this book was the overall ambiance and general relaxed vibe. I enjoyed reading about the environment of the coffee shop, I loved being able to envision myself in this tavern-like place with beautiful music playing, delicious pastries, and, of course, fresh brewed coffee.
Being able to see these characters grow with each other, love each other, learning to trust each other, was incredibly healing and beautiful.
I picked this book up as a way to get back into the habit of reading following a challenging school
year in which I had little to no time to pursue my own interest and hobbies. Seeing Viv grow to a point where she sees herself as worthy of a comfortable and peaceful life was powerful and exactly what I needed to read about. Not only was I able to enjoy some time without stress and fall into a beautiful fantasy setting, but I was also able to find characters I see myself in as a queer overachieving person. Thank you Travis, and thank you Viv.
than I could have hoped for.
This book, at its core, was about the importance of support systems and self care. While it was light-hearted as a whole, it had some incredibly insightful passages discussing work-life balance, self worth, personal growth and evolution, and the power of friendship and found family.
Again, this novel did focus primarily on the inner workings of the Legends & Lattes cafe, but it is clear that the author put a great deal of thought and love into the world building when discussing the magic system through Hem’s character, or showing the wide range of creatures and races when addressing Viv’s past as someone who is well traveled and well read.
I really enjoyed how this book managed to subvert expectations at nearly every turn. Starting the
book, I was expecting the Madrigal to be the “big bad” of the story, only for the conflict to be resolved with weekly payments of cinnamon buns. This dedication to non-violent conflict resolution, as well as the continued effort to maintain a peaceful life on Viv’s part, is really beautiful. She is not what she has always been, people are capable of change and growth.
Probably my favorite part of this book was the overall ambiance and general relaxed vibe. I enjoyed reading about the environment of the coffee shop, I loved being able to envision myself in this tavern-like place with beautiful music playing, delicious pastries, and, of course, fresh brewed coffee.
Being able to see these characters grow with each other, love each other, learning to trust each other, was incredibly healing and beautiful.
I picked this book up as a way to get back into the habit of reading following a challenging school
year in which I had little to no time to pursue my own interest and hobbies.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Fire/Fire injury, Violence, and Blood
Minor: Cursing and Alcohol