Travis Baldress

I loved Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldress so much, I’ve read it 3 times. I even pre-ordered his next book, which is due out in November.

A cozy fantasy about an orc named Viv, who is pursuing her happily ever after, I was glued to the page from the moment I started. There’s a little magic and a little mystery, but mostly there’s charm. This book had me tearing through the pages, and I finished it in a mere few hours.  What’s so captivating about it? Everyone can relate to the pursuit of a dream and taking a chance on yourself.

This book was recommended by my library staff, so I’m not the only one who fell in love with it. The novel showcases the author’s ability to craft a richly imagined world, populated by memorable characters filled with heart. Viv often doubts and second-guesses herself, and the city has never heard of coffee. So, she has an uphill battle to get customers.

The pages are like a warm hug as Viv hangs up her sword and purchases a coffee machine. Never have I ever been so entranced by the creation of baked goods and whether a fantasy city will want coffee. I hung on every word. A simply marvelous novel, and highly, highly recommended. I give it more than 5 stars. It’s rare for me to read a book this fast since becoming an adult.

Here’s the blurb:

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 travelers 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.