Synopsis

After a lifetime of bounties and bloodshed, Viv is hanging up her sword for the last time.

The battle-weary orc aims to start fresh, opening the first ever coffee shop in the city of Thune. But old and new rivals stand in the way of success — not to mention the fact that no one has the faintest idea what coffee actually is.

If Viv wants to put the blade behind her and make her plans a reality, she won’t be able to go it alone.

But the true rewards of the uncharted path are the travellers you meet along the way. And whether drawn together by ancient magic, flaky pastry, or a freshly brewed cup, they may become partners, family, and something deeper than she ever could have dreamed.

Review

Is this the cosiest book ever? What a delight!

I have to admit that it wasn’t the synopsis that appealed to me with this book, but the cover. I kept seeing it, but then I’d read the synopsis and wasn’t convinced. I am so glad I picked it up.

I actually binged this book in a few hours, utterly bewitched by its charm and characters.

Ranging from our strong and determined protagonist Viv through to the adorable Thimble, each member of the coffee shop was an absolute joy to behold. The sights, sounds and smells of the world within these pages were so vivid I was fully immersed in the story.

It’s a gentle book and there isn’t much peril or romance, but what there is works beautifully. Everything is subtle, with just a hint of spice that takes the flavour up a notch and works like a charm.

Snuggle up under a blanket with a coffee and a cinnamon bun and devour this book!

Thanks to Tor Books and Black Crow PR for my copy. Opinions my own.