orionmerlin's reviews
695 reviews

Swordheart by T. Kingfisher

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adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Characters: 10/10
T. Kingfisher excels at creating memorable, distinct, and lovable characters. The protagonist, Halla, is relatable and layered, and Sarkis, the enchanted sword warrior, is an excellent blend of gruffness and vulnerability. The secondary characters, from quirky nuns to sinister antagonists, felt purposeful and additive, providing humor, tension, and intrigue. Every character felt vivid and easy to describe, and their interactions were heartfelt and entertaining. I cared deeply about what happened to them.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The setting was immersive and vivid, with a world that felt lived-in without being over-described. The cozy but dangerous atmosphere of the world matched the tone perfectly. Scenes in inns, dusty roads, and strange magical spaces came alive, and the energy in key moments—be it danger, humor, or emotional depth—was palpable to me. While it wasn’t as grand or intricate as some epic fantasy settings, it was richly satisfying and fit the story perfectly.
Writing Style: 10/10
Kingfisher's writing was a delight. The prose was witty, conversational, and fluid, balancing humor and emotional depth with ease. The dialogue felt natural and often hilarious, while the narration carried a warmth that drew me in. The style was approachable yet unique, and I fell into the rhythm of the story effortlessly. I’d happily pick up another book by Kingfisher in any genre based on this experience.
Plot: 9/10
The plot was well-paced and satisfying, blending romance, humor, and action seamlessly. It felt fresh in how it subverted traditional fantasy tropes while still delivering the expected payoff. While there were a few moments where the journey lingered slightly too long in certain areas, the overall story kept me engaged. The resolution was deeply satisfying, and I felt the journey was worth it.
Intrigue: 10/10
The story held my attention consistently, especially due to its engaging characters and witty dialogue. I often found myself eager to return to it, and the blend of humor and stakes kept me fully invested. The unfolding of events was gripping, and I wanted to see how everything would play out.
Logic/Relationships: 10/10
The characters' motives were clear, and their actions made sense within the world’s rules. The relationships, particularly between Halla and Sarkis, were wonderfully developed, blending tension, humor, and genuine care. The world-building was sufficient without being overwhelming, and the magic system and rules were consistent. I didn’t notice any plot holes, and the story struck a perfect balance between clarity and intrigue. Everything fit together in a way that felt seamless.
Enjoyment: 10/10
I absolutely loved this book. Its mix of humor, heart, and adventure kept me entertained throughout, and the charm of the characters and the wit of the writing made it an experience I didn’t want to end. I’ll be thinking about it for a long time. 
This Is How You Lose the Time War by Max Gladstone, Amal El-Mohtar

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adventurous emotional mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Characters: 6/10
When I picked up this book, I was excited by the promise of two deeply distinctive, opposing characters falling in love through their letters. However, while Red and Blue's dynamic had potential, I struggled to connect with them as individuals. Their voices, though beautifully written, often felt indistinguishable, which made it hard for me to see them as fully realized people. Their letters felt more like literary exercises than authentic expressions of personality. Without stronger characterization, their romance felt abstract, and I found it difficult to care deeply about their connection. The lack of meaningful secondary characters also made the story feel insular and limited.
Atmosphere/Setting: 7/10
The book's setting had flashes of brilliance, with imaginative descriptions of the Agency and Garden that hinted at a fascinating world. However, the lack of concrete world-building left me feeling ungrounded. While the authors evoke vivid imagery in individual scenes, the overarching time-traveling war felt distant and underexplored. I found it difficult to picture how this world functioned or why its stakes mattered. Without a stronger sense of place, the atmosphere felt more decorative than immersive.
Writing Style: 7/10
The prose is undeniably poetic and ambitious, but its density often worked against my enjoyment. I frequently found myself rereading passages not because of their profound depth but because their meaning was obscured by excessive metaphors. The writing felt more like a showcase of the authors’ linguistic prowess than a tool for storytelling. While some sentences were striking, the overall style lacked balance and clarity, which made the story feel distant rather than engaging.
Plot: 5/10
The concept of a time-traveling war as the backdrop for a forbidden romance intrigued me, but the execution left much to be desired. The broader stakes of the war were barely explored, and the mechanics of time travel felt more like an aesthetic choice than a meaningful part of the plot. The novella’s brevity left little room to develop the narrative fully, and the emotional payoff at the end felt rushed and unearned. I was left with more questions than answers, which made the story feel incomplete rather than satisfying.
Intrigue: 6/10
While I was eager to explore the book's unique premise, my enthusiasm waned as the story progressed. The poetic letters between Red and Blue held my interest initially, but their repetitive tone and lack of distinct voices became a barrier. The abstract nature of the plot and world-building diminished my curiosity, and I often found myself disengaged. The story's pace, combined with its lack of clarity, made it difficult for me to stay fully invested.
Logic/Relationships: 5/10
The relationship between Red and Blue is central to the novella, but it didn’t resonate with me as much as I had hoped. Their motives and personalities felt underdeveloped, and their letters, while beautifully crafted, often lacked the emotional authenticity needed to make their romance feel believable. The world’s rules and stakes were also frustratingly vague. I wanted to understand the mechanics of the time war and why their actions mattered, but this context was largely absent. Without it, the relationships and conflicts felt untethered.
Enjoyment: 5/10
I admire the ambition behind This Is How You Lose the Time War, but my enjoyment of the book was hampered by its execution. The dense, abstract writing style and lack of clarity made it difficult for me to feel truly connected to the story or its characters. While I appreciated the beauty of individual passages, the overall experience felt detached and unsatisfying. I wouldn’t personally recommend this book, as it left me feeling more frustrated than fulfilled.
A Prayer for the Crown-Shy by Becky Chambers

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hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

 Characters: 10/10
The characters in A Prayer for the Crown-Shy are beautifully rendered, with Mosscap and Sibling Dex standing out as memorable and distinct. Their personalities are vivid, making them easy to describe and empathize with. The secondary characters, while not as deeply developed, serve as effective complements, enriching the narrative and the world without overshadowing the leads. I cared deeply about their journey, emotional growth, and philosophical musings, as they felt authentic and multidimensional.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The setting is immersive and evocative, presenting a serene, pastoral world that feels tangible and alive. Chambers excels at describing environments with enough detail to paint a picture without bogging down the narrative. The energy in the scenes is gentle and contemplative, reflecting the book’s themes. While it isn’t action-packed, the setting felt convincing and meditative, contributing to the story's overall tone. I was drawn into this peaceful yet thought-provoking world.
Writing Style: 10/10
Becky Chambers' writing is luminous—effortless, poetic, and deeply human. Her prose flows naturally, blending narrative and dialogue seamlessly. She has a remarkable ability to infuse mundane moments with profound meaning, making even the smallest exchanges between characters resonate. The dialogue feels authentic, and the balance between introspection and interaction is ideal. I found her style so compelling that I would eagerly pick up more of her work, regardless of genre.
Plot: 9/10
The plot is simple but deeply satisfying, focusing on the emotional and philosophical journeys of the characters rather than external conflict or complex twists. The pacing is steady, with no significant lulls. I appreciated the story's uniqueness, especially in how it explored big ideas in small, quiet ways. While the structure wasn’t groundbreaking, it left me wanting to explore more of this world and these characters.
Intrigue: 9/10
The book’s contemplative tone and character-driven narrative held my attention, though it didn’t compel me to rush through it in one sitting. Instead, I enjoyed reading it slowly and deliberately, finding enough intrigue to keep me invested in the unfolding relationships and philosophical questions. I found the absence of conventional tension refreshing, as the intrigue lay more in the exploration of themes than in plot twists.
Logic/Relationships: 10/10
The relationships between characters felt genuine and deeply thought-out, particularly the dynamic between Mosscap and Dex. Their conversations and evolving friendship are the heart of the story, providing emotional resonance and philosophical depth. The worldbuilding is light yet effective; the rules and systems of this future Earth are clear and coherent, fitting seamlessly into the narrative without overexplaining or overwhelming.
Enjoyment: 10/10
A Prayer for the Crown-Shy was a joy to read, offering a calming, reflective experience that lingered with me after finishing. Its consistent tone and thoughtful exploration of big ideas through a small lens made it both memorable and enjoyable. I found it deeply rewarding and heartwarming.
The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee

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

3.5

Characters: 7/10
The characters in The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue were vibrant and distinctive, with Monty’s flawed yet endearing personality making him easy to connect with. Percy and Felicity, the secondary characters, had significant roles and added depth to the story. While I enjoyed their dynamics, some of the characters felt a bit exaggerated at times, which occasionally pulled me out of the narrative.
Atmosphere/Setting: 7/10
The historical European setting was richly described, with lavish parties, gritty streets, and adventurous locales painting a vivid picture. While I could imagine many of the scenes, a few moments lacked the energy or detail to make them fully immersive.
Writing Style: 7/10
Mackenzi Lee’s writing style was enjoyable, with a blend of wit and emotional depth that suited the story well. Monty’s narration was engaging, but at times, the humor felt a bit overused, and the prose wasn’t as consistent in tone as I would have liked. While the style was accessible, it didn’t leave a lasting impression on me.
Plot: 7/10
The plot offered a mix of romance, adventure, and self-discovery that kept me entertained. The pacing was mostly strong, but some middle sections felt tedious and drawn out. While the central conflicts and twists were satisfying, the overall journey didn’t feel particularly unique compared to other stories in the genre.
Intrigue: 7/10
I enjoyed following the story and was curious about where it would lead, but it wasn’t always compelling enough to make me prioritize reading it. While there were plenty of entertaining moments, the pacing inconsistencies occasionally pulled me out of the experience.
Logic/Relationships: 7/10
The relationships, especially between Monty, Percy, and Felicity, were well-developed and emotionally resonant. However, some character motivations and choices felt unclear or inconsistent at times, which disrupted the story’s logic. The world-building was sufficient but didn’t fully draw me in or make me feel the stakes were as high as they could have been.
Enjoyment: 7/10
Overall, I enjoyed the book, though my enjoyment wasn’t entirely consistent. While I appreciated the humor, characters, and adventurous spirit, there were moments when the story felt repetitive or overly reliant on certain tropes. 
Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree

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

4.75

Characters: 10/10
The characters in Bookshops & Bonedust felt vibrant and memorable, with distinct personalities that made them come alive. The secondary characters were well-drawn and added depth to the narrative, enriching the main storyline. I genuinely cared about the protagonist's growth, which felt organic, and the relationships between characters were heartwarming and believable. Even the minor characters felt thoughtfully crafted, and I found them all easy to describe and truly likable.
Atmosphere/Setting: 10/10
The atmosphere and setting completely immersed me in the story. The small-town bookshop came to life with vivid descriptions, and I could easily picture the world, characters, and events. The energy in the scenes shifted effectively, from whimsical to poignant, making the setting feel like a character in its own right. I felt fully transported into the cozy and magical world that Baldree created.
Writing Style: 9/10
I enjoyed the writing style, which was accessible and engaging, balancing charm with emotional resonance. The dialogue felt natural and flowed effortlessly with the narration, making the book an easy and pleasant read. Although the prose wasn’t groundbreaking, it suited the tone of the story perfectly. I felt it was inviting enough to make me eager to pick up Baldree's future works.
Plot: 9/10
The pacing worked well overall, and I found the story engaging throughout. There were rare moments where the story slowed down slightly, but the plot was delightful and satisfying, with engaging reveals that felt worth the journey. While the story didn’t surprise me with groundbreaking twists, it was executed with enough charm and warmth to stand out. It left me content yet curious to know more about this world and its characters.
Intrigue: 10/10
I found myself eager to return to the book whenever I had to put it down. The characters’ journeys kept me fully engaged, and I wanted to see how their stories evolved. Although the stakes weren’t high in a world-ending sense, they felt deeply personal and compelling. The mix of charm, humor, and heart held my attention throughout, making the story consistently captivating.
Logic/Relationships: 10/10
The characters’ actions made sense in the context of their motives, and their relationships felt genuine and well-developed. I felt the world-building was subtle yet sufficient, providing enough clarity without overwhelming me with unnecessary detail. The setting, magic system, and character motives all fit together seamlessly, making the story feel cohesive and well-thought-out.
Enjoyment: 10/10
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. Its charm, humor, and emotional depth made it a delight to read, and I found myself consistently entertained. This was a standout story in its genre, and it left me with a lasting sense of warmth and satisfaction. 
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins

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adventurous challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Characters: 8.5/10
The characters in The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes were compelling and memorable. Coriolanus Snow’s complexity stood out, and I found his moral descent fascinating to follow. Lucy Gray Baird’s charisma and artistry brought a vibrant energy to the story, serving as an excellent foil to Snow’s calculating nature. While some secondary characters felt less developed, the key relationships carried the narrative effectively. I cared deeply about what happened to these characters, and their distinct personalities made them easy to describe and reflect upon.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The setting felt immersive, pulling me into the post-war Capitol with its decadent yet crumbling veneer. The stark contrast between the Capitol’s excess and the districts’ hardships created a palpable tension that elevated the story. I could vividly picture the early Hunger Games arena, raw and unsettling in its brutality. The scenes in the Capitol were especially effective in conveying an atmosphere of superficial glamour hiding deeper corruption, and the wilderness surrounding Lucy Gray’s performances added a haunting beauty to the narrative.
Writing Style: 8.5/10
I enjoyed Suzanne Collins’ writing style, which balanced clarity with moments of lyrical beauty, especially during Lucy Gray’s performances. The prose flowed smoothly and was easy to follow, without feeling simplistic. I found the balance between dialogue and narration satisfying, with the dialogue effectively revealing character dynamics. The narration filled in important world-building details without bogging down the pace. The writing was engaging and made me eager to pick up more of Collins’ work, even in a different genre.
Plot: 8.5/10
The plot was well-constructed, with a strong first half that kept me engrossed. The pacing faltered slightly in the latter sections, where Snow’s internal struggles became repetitive. However, the story as a whole was satisfying, providing a fresh perspective on the Hunger Games universe by exploring its early days and Snow’s psyche. While the plot didn’t surprise me as much as I hoped, it still felt unique and worth the journey. I appreciated how the narrative tied together key elements of Snow’s personality and the origins of the Games.
Intrigue: 8.5/10
I often found myself eager to return to the book, especially during the early sections involving the Games. The tension and stakes were consistently high, keeping me intrigued to see how the story would evolve. Although the pacing dipped during more introspective moments, the overarching themes of power and morality sustained my interest. Watching Snow’s progression and the dynamics between him and Lucy Gray made the story feel compelling, even when the ultimate outcome was inevitable.
Logic/Relationships: 8.5/10
The characters’ motives and actions felt believable, particularly Snow’s gradual transformation as he grappled with power, loyalty, and survival. His relationship with Lucy Gray was layered and often tense, making it one of the story’s most intriguing aspects. The world-building was strong, with clear rules for the early Hunger Games that added depth without feeling overwhelming. I never felt lost in the logic of the story, and everything fit together in a way that enhanced the narrative. The connections between characters, world, and plot felt cohesive and purposeful.
Enjoyment: 8.5/10
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and found it a rewarding addition to the Hunger Games series. The story’s darker, introspective tone made it a different experience from the original trilogy, but it was equally engaging. While the pacing wasn’t entirely consistent, the themes, characters, and world-building kept me invested from start to finish. The book left me with much to think about and a strong appreciation for the intricacies of Snow’s origin story. 
Nine Goblins by T. Kingfisher

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funny hopeful lighthearted reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Characters: 8/10
The characters in Nine Goblins are memorable, with each goblin in the main cast standing out due to their distinct quirks and personalities. Sings-to-Trees, the elf vet, blends kindness and practicality in a way that makes him deeply relatable. The secondary characters are distinguishable and add meaningful layers to the story. I cared about what happened to the characters, as their humor and vulnerability made them easy to connect with. While some leaned toward archetypes, they had enough depth and charm to feel authentic and engaging.
Atmosphere/Setting: 8/10
The world of Nine Goblins felt vivid and immersive, with the descriptions of the forest, battles, and Sings-to-Trees' veterinary practice painting a clear and engaging picture. I could easily visualize the setting, the characters, and the creatures, which made the story feel alive. The mix of whimsy and darker undertones created a unique atmosphere, though the balance leaned slightly more toward humor, which softened the tension in more serious scenes.
Writing Style: 8/10
I enjoyed the writing style, finding it witty, accessible, and emotionally resonant. The prose flowed well, blending light-hearted narration with moments of deeper reflection. The dialogue felt natural and often humorous, complementing the characters and driving the story forward. The readability and charm of the writing left me interested in exploring more of T. Kingfisher’s work, even in other genres, as it felt both entertaining and skillfully crafted.
Plot: 7.5/10
The plot was well-paced overall, though there were moments in the middle where the story felt like it meandered slightly without strong forward momentum. The premise of goblins as reluctant protagonists in a fantasy setting was refreshing, but the overall narrative followed some familiar fantasy tropes. The resolution was satisfying and left me with a sense of closure, though the central storyline could have delivered a bit more intrigue or unexpected twists.
Intrigue: 8/10
The humor and charm of the story kept me engaged, particularly during the introduction of the characters and the world. I found myself eager to see where the story would go, but there were moments in the middle where my interest dipped slightly. That said, the lighthearted tone and endearing characters made it easy to stay invested, and the climax successfully reignited my engagement with the story.
Logic/Relationships: 8/10
The characters acted consistently with their motives, and I found their behaviors clear and logical within the context of the story. The rules of the world were straightforward and easy to follow, and they remained consistent throughout. The relationships between the goblins, their leader, and the elf felt natural and well-developed, adding a lot to the emotional depth of the story. The worldbuilding struck a good balance, providing just enough detail to support the narrative without overwhelming it.
Enjoyment: 8/10
I enjoyed Nine Goblins from start to finish, with the humor, charm, and relatable characters creating a consistently delightful experience. The mix of whimsy and poignant moments kept me engaged throughout, and I appreciated the way the story offered both laughs and emotional depth. It’s a book I would recommend to others looking for a refreshing and heartfelt fantasy tale. 
Minor Mage by T. Kingfisher

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adventurous funny fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

Characters: 8/10
T. Kingfisher creates memorable, layered characters. Oliver, the titular minor mage, is both endearing and complex, navigating self-doubt and bravery. His relationship with his armadillo familiar adds warmth and humor, while secondary characters, like the villagers and those encountered on his journey, are distinct and meaningful. Each character feels purposeful, adding depth to the story. I found it easy to describe their personalities to a friend, and they lingered in my memory after reading.
Atmosphere/Setting: 7.5/10
The world in Minor Mage is vividly described and easy to picture. The small-town setting and the wilderness journey felt immersive, with an atmosphere that shifted between whimsical and eerie as needed. The descriptions of magic and its consequences were compelling, but the setting didn’t feel as expansive or detailed as I would have liked. While it was effective, it didn’t fully captivate me in every scene.
Writing Style: 8/10
T. Kingfisher's writing style is charming, clear, and engaging. The prose balances wit and poignancy, with moments of humor that felt organic rather than forced. The dialogue was sharp and natural, blending seamlessly with the narration. While the storytelling flowed beautifully and I appreciated the emotional weight of the prose, it didn’t leave me as awestruck as I’d hoped. I would still be eager to read more from Kingfisher.
Plot: 7/10
The pacing of Minor Mage was steady, with a blend of action, introspection, and character-driven moments. While the overarching plot—an inexperienced mage on a reluctant quest—was executed well, it wasn’t particularly groundbreaking. The narrative avoided dragging but didn’t deliver many surprises. I found the plot cohesive and rewarding, though it lacked the excitement to leave me completely thrilled.
Intrigue: 7.5/10
I felt engaged with the story, and the interplay between Oliver’s struggles, his relationship with his familiar, and the dangers of his quest kept me invested. While the stakes were personal and meaningful, they didn’t feel especially urgent to me. This was a book I wanted to linger over rather than rush through, though I found some moments more gripping than others.
Logic/Relationships: 7.5/10
The characters’ motivations were clear and consistent. The magic system, though simple, was internally coherent and fit the world. Relationships, especially between Oliver and his armadillo, felt tender and believable, grounding the story in emotional authenticity. The world-building was effective, though it didn’t always strike the balance between clarity and mystery perfectly for me. It worked well but didn’t stand out as exceptional.
Enjoyment: 7.5/10
I enjoyed Minor Mage. Its blend of humor, heart, and a touch of darkness made it a satisfying read. Its charm lay as much in its quiet moments as in its action. While it wasn’t a book that left me utterly captivated from start to finish, I appreciated its character-driven, whimsical nature and found it to be a worthwhile experience. 
What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher

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dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.25

Characters: 7/10
The characters in What Moves the Dead were engaging, but not all of them stood out equally. While Alex Easton had a unique voice and identity, some of the secondary characters felt less memorable or deeply developed. I appreciated the contributions of the supporting cast to the story, but a few felt flat or one-dimensional. Overall, the characters were easy to follow but not particularly impactful.
Atmosphere/Setting: 8/10
The atmosphere was a highlight, with T. Kingfisher capturing the eerie, decaying gothic setting exceptionally well. The descriptions of the house, fungi, and landscape were vivid and immersive, drawing me into the unsettling world of the story. The mood of dread was effective, though it didn’t always feel as gripping as it could have been.
Writing Style: 7/10
T. Kingfisher’s writing was accessible and had moments of dark humor that I enjoyed. The prose flowed well overall, but it lacked the level of beauty or uniqueness that would make it truly stand out for me. While I found it engaging, the style didn’t leave a lasting impression that would make me seek out another book solely based on the writing.
Plot: 6/10
The plot was straightforward and intriguing but didn’t fully deliver on its potential. While I appreciated the retelling of The Fall of the House of Usher, some aspects felt predictable, and the resolution lacked the impact I was hoping for. The pacing was solid, but certain parts dragged slightly, making the overall journey less satisfying than I anticipated.
Intrigue: 7/10
The story kept me interested, but I didn’t find myself fully engrossed. While I wanted to see how the mystery would unfold, it wasn’t something I felt compelled to prioritize over other activities. The intrigue was steady, but there were moments where it wavered and didn’t fully hold my attention.
Logic/Relationships: 6/10
The characters’ motivations were generally clear, and the rules of the world made sense, but some elements of the story felt underexplored. The fungal infestation was an intriguing concept, but I felt like it could have been developed further. While nothing felt glaringly illogical, there were areas where the world-building and relationships left me wanting more depth.
Enjoyment: 6/10
I enjoyed parts of the book, but my experience wasn’t consistently positive. There were moments of intrigue and effective atmosphere, but I didn’t feel fully invested throughout. While I appreciated the story’s uniqueness, it didn’t leave a lasting emotional or intellectual impact on me. 
Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

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

4.25

Characters: 9/10
If this book has a secret weapon, it’s the characters. The main crew is so charming it’s almost unfair. Viv, the battle-worn orc deciding she’s had enough of stabbing things and would rather make lattes, is a fantastic lead. Tandri, the artistic succubus with a quiet confidence that balances Viv’s “bull in a china shop” energy, adds a satisfying emotional core. Their relationship? Chef’s kiss. Then there’s Cal, the no-nonsense hob carpenter who might actually be made of wood himself, but in an endearing way. Thimble, the anxious ratkin baker, is adorable, and Pendry, the bard who starts the book as a walking ball of self-doubt, actually gets an arc (imagine that). Even the side characters, like the slightly chaotic neighbor Laney and the time-bending gnome Durias, add extra flavor. The only ones who drop the ball? The villains. Fennus and the Madrigal are about as threatening as a soggy biscuit. Conflict exists, sure, but real stakes? Not so much.
Atmosphere/Setting: 8.5/10
Welcome to Thune, a perfectly fine, if somewhat generic, fantasy town. There’s nothing revolutionary here, but what is here works because Baldree knows how to make details sing. The café? Absolutely the beating heart of this book. The transformation from sad, abandoned stable to bustling community hub is genuinely satisfying. The descriptions of coffee brewing and pastries? So vivid you’ll be irrationally mad that you can’t reach into the book and grab a cinnamon roll. The broader world, though? A little thin. Thune itself isn’t particularly memorable, and while there are cool magical hints (hello, Durias and your bizarre relationship with time), they mostly stay in the background.
Writing Style: 9/10
Baldree’s writing is smooth, engaging, and refreshingly easy to read. No unnecessary frills, no pretentious monologues—just cozy, well-paced storytelling with dialogue that actually sounds like people talking. He’s nailed the balance between introspection, action, and charm. But (and there’s always a but), the low-stakes nature of the book means that sometimes things feel too smooth. If you’re looking for white-knuckle tension, you’re in the wrong café. That said, what the book lacks in nail-biting suspense, it more than makes up for in warmth and heart.
Plot: 8/10
An ex-mercenary opens a coffee shop in a world that doesn’t know what coffee is? That’s a concept with built-in entertainment value. And for the most part, it delivers. Watching Viv and her crew build the café from the ground up is honestly more compelling than it has any right to be. The business-building aspect? Oddly gripping. The actual conflicts? Ehh. The Madrigal’s protection racket is about as intimidating as a neighborhood HOA dispute, and Fennus? He’s your standard bitter ex-colleague with the depth of a kiddie pool. However, the final twist about the Scalvert’s Stone—that it doesn’t bring fortune but instead attracts similar people—is a surprisingly touching payoff.
Intrigue: 8.5/10
No, this isn’t a high-stakes, edge-of-your-seat thriller. But is it engaging? Absolutely. Viv’s journey is one you want to see unfold, mostly because the characters are so damn likable. The budding romance between Viv and Tandri adds an extra emotional hook, and even though the stakes are lower than a limbo contest, the character dynamics keep things interesting. That said, sometimes the obstacles feel too easy to overcome. Would a little more tension have hurt? Probably not.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The relationships in this book just work. Viv and Tandri’s growing connection is written with a subtlety that makes it feel organic rather than forced. The found family aspect? Peak comfort read material. Each character brings something unique to the table, and their interactions feel authentic. The only real eyebrow-raiser? The coffee economy. Introducing a brand-new commodity to a fantasy town should be way more of a cultural shock than it is. But hey, this isn’t an economics textbook, and the reveal about the Scalvert’s Stone ties everything together nicely, reinforcing the book’s whole “community over luck” message.
Enjoyment: 9/10
Did I love reading this? Yes. Was it a cozy, feel-good escape from reality? Also yes. It’s the fantasy equivalent of curling up under a blanket with a hot drink—it’s warm, it’s comforting, and it makes you want to stay a while. If you’re here for action-packed battles, look elsewhere. But if you enjoy stories about small victories, great friendships, and the surprisingly cutthroat world of fantasy café startups, this is a must-read.