A review by george_d_keaton
Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

hopeful lighthearted relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

I have read plenty of cozy mysteries and cozy romances, but this is my first time reading a cozy fantasy novel. Legends & Lattes delivers on the premise in the blurb: high fantasy and low stakes. I love pirate stories because they are going after booty not trying to save the world from Cthulhu. I loved this story because Viv the orc barbarian wants to start a new life, simple as that.

The story builds literally and figuratively. The first half of the book is Viv and her buddy Cal building the coffee shop out of an old livery. It's like an episode of "This Old House," only in fantasy form. They have to fix the roof, install a stove, wait for deliveries, pretty mundane stuff, but the writing helps bring a certain charm to the construction. Along the way there are hints of conflict as men from the local underworld try to convince her to pay for protection. Old friends and a certain frenemy show up as well and try to steer her in opposite directions. All the while Viv stays strong and follows her heart.

I should warn you that the descriptions of coffee and pastries is very vivid and will make you want to go get some. 

The book is a very relaxed and chill way to spend a few hours. My biggest complaint is that a budding romance is not explored in depth. I don't need raunch in my cozy fantasy, but it would be nice for the ladies to enjoy their time together more. There are a lot of good spirited antics going on. I really enjoyed getting to see the characters build a new life while building a coffee shop.
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