A review by jai_98
Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted relaxing sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

 
Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree is a novel that attempts to blend the realms of fantasy and reality, creating a unique and intriguing backdrop for its story. While it has its strengths, I found myself wanting a bit more from this book. 
Baldree's writing style is straightforward and easy to follow, making it a quick and enjoyable cosy read. The concept of legends and mythical creatures overlapping with a modern-day coffee shop setting is an interesting premise. The author's imagination and creativity are commendable as he tries to seamlessly weave these two worlds together. The characters in Legends and Lattes possess a certain charm, and it's evident that Baldree invested time in developing their personalities. However, I felt they lacked depth and complexity. I found it challenging to connect with them on a deeper level, making it harder to become emotionally invested in their journeys. 
The pacing of the novel felt inconsistent at times. While some sections were action-packed and had me eagerly turning the pages, others dragged on, diluting the overall impact of the story. I wish there were more moments that heightened the sense of urgency and kept the narrative momentum flowing smoothly throughout. 
Furthermore, the world-building in Legends and Lattes left me wanting more. While the concept of the overlapping realms was intriguing, I felt that certain aspects were not fully explored or explained. I would have appreciated more attention to detail and a deeper exploration of this fantastical world to truly immerse myself in its intricacies. 
Despite these shortcomings, I must acknowledge that Legends and Lattes still manages to provide moments of enjoyment. The blend of fantasy elements with the realism of a modern-day coffee shop creates a whimsical atmosphere that is worth experiencing. It's an easy read for those looking for a light fantasy novel interwoven with moments of real-world charm. 
In conclusion, Legends and Lattes is a decent attempt at combining fantasy and reality, but it fell short of my expectations. While the writing style is engaging and the premise intriguing, the character development, pacing, and world-building aspects could have been enhanced further. If you're seeking a light-hearted read, this book might be right up your alley, but don't expect it to leave a lasting impression.