coffees_and_romance_reads 's review for:

A Tale of Mirth and Magic by Kristen Vale

3.5

adventurous emotional reflective tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

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Intro/synopsis:

“A Tale of Mirth and Magic” by Kristen Vale was set in a magical world of elves, dwarfs, humans and giants. Elikki is a jewelry maker who travels from town to town selling her metal jewelry forged by her magic and skill. Barra is in town on business for his families armoury business. He is taken by Elikki and steps in to help when a customer tries to take advantage of her. They both find themselves on the run and forced to rely on each other despite trust being difficult for both of them based on past trauma. Soon the chemistry between them starts to bridge some of that hurt and bring healing. How long can that last under such stressful circumstances and with their days together potentially numbered?

My thoughts: 

I really liked the magical world Vale created. Barra was such a great MC, kind and gentle. He was focused on trying to be fair with Elikki while protecting himself as well. The writing style was fluid and easy to read. I really liked the secondary characters that added a lot to the plot and the storyline was original and fun. I didn’t mind Elikki most of the time but I found her emotional immaturity hard to bear at times especially in contrast to Barra. A good story but not one I am likely to pick up a second time.