My ratings for Legends and Lattes
Overall Rating: Wonderful novel to read with a cup of coffee
Spice Level: There’s friendship but no romance
Re-readability rating: I loved that book and immeditely wanted to read it again
Summary of the novel
Viv, an orc barbarian, is ready to hang up her sword and leave behind a life of adventure. So, she trades her sword for an apron and sets out to open the first-ever coffee shop in a small town where no one even knows what coffee is. Inspired by this new dream, she travels to the town of Thune to open her coffee shop. With little more than determination, a magical artifact, and the help of new friends she meets along the way, Viv creates her own safe haven.
But, of course, nothing worth having comes easy. From convincing locals that coffee isn’t just hot bean water to dealing with sketchy business rivals and a scheming crime boss, Viv’s journey is equally heartwarming and suspenseful. Along the way, she finds support in an unlikely group of friends who help her realize that the strongest magic might just be the connections we make.
Key details
Mood of the story
Cozy, uplifting, and heartwarming, with a touch of adventure
Central Themes
Reinvention, community, friendship, and following your dreams
Audience
Perfect for fans of cozy fantasies, slice-of-life storytelling, and small-town charm
My opinion on Legends and Lattes
I loved the idea of an orc opening a coffee shop in a medieval-esque world and immediately wanted to read this book. The story is a refreshing break from high-octane fantasy filled with battles and drama. Instead, it focuses on simple joys: making the perfect cup of coffee, building friendships, and turning a dream into reality.
While the plot may not have many twists and turns, there is still suspense. However, the characters and their interactions throughout this story are what makes the book shine, in my opinion. The friendship they build is deeply satisfying and you almost feel part of their story.
The true heart of the story is Viv’s coffee shop. Watching it evolve from an abandoned building into a welcoming sanctuary is refreshing. The people of Thune slowly fall in love with Legends and Lattes and their pastries which feels incredibly gratifying.
Characters
Viv, the orc, is tough, determined, and surprisingly tender-hearted. Her journey of reinvention is both relatable and inspiring. Watching her grapple with self-doubt and gradually find her place in Thune is deeply satisfying. Viv has moments of vulnerability that make her incredibly human. As she says, “Sometimes starting over is the bravest thing you can do.” Her growth throughout the story makes her a protagonist worth rooting for.
Tandri, the succubus-turned-manager, is equal parts sharp and compassionate. She becomes Viv’s closest ally, bringing organization and a touch of elegance to the shop. Tandri’s quiet wisdom is a grounding presence in the story. “You don’t need to do it all yourself,” she tells Viv at a pivotal moment. “Sometimes, letting people help you is its own kind of strength.” Their partnership is built on mutual respect and trust, and it’s a joy to watch.
‘Sometimes the smallest dreams can carry the most weight,’
Cal, the gruff hob carpenter, is a standout character with his dry wit and understated kindness. Beneath his grumpy exterior lies a heart of gold. His unexpected talent for baking adds an extra layer of charm. When he says, “Good work doesn’t need to shout. It’ll speak for itself,” you know he’s talking about more than just his craftsmanship.
Thimble, the shy ratkin baker, is pure magic. His pastries are as enchanting as his personality. Despite his quiet demeanor, he plays a vital role in creating the shop’s atmosphere of warmth and creativity. His dedication to his craft is summed up beautifully in the line, “A little care makes all the difference.” Thimble’s presence adds a touch of sweetness (literally and figuratively) to the narrative.
The story
This book is proof that you don’t need huge battles or life-or-death stakes to tell a great story. The biggest challenge Viv faces isn’t some evil overlord—it’s things like finding furniture, getting people to try coffee and reconsider their beliefs. But there is also adventures and suspense as Viv deals with a crime boss who wants a piece of her business, and an old team member who has grown bitter over her success.
Viv is figuring out who she is outside of adventuring, and that’s what makes the story so engaging. She doubts herself, she makes mistakes, but she keeps going. And honestly? That’s way more relatable than fighting a dragon.
It’s also refreshing to see a character in a Fantasy novel in more mondane situations. You don’t often experience these chracters just build furniture or eating pastries among friends.
‘[…] You don’t have to forget who you were… because that’s what brought you here.’
The friendships are the heart of the story. Watching Viv’s little team come together, with each character bringing their own strengths (and quirks) to the shop, is pure joy. They’re the kind of people you wish you could grab coffee with in real life.
You’ll love this fantasy novel, if you enjoyed…
If these books are already favorites of yours, then you’ll love Legends & Lattes:
A Wizard’s Guide to Defensive Baking
by T. Kingfisher
A story about a girl with a magical connection to bread determined to save her town.
The Bookshop and the Barbarian
by M. Stang
A bookshop owner and a retired adventurer cross paths in the most unexpected way.
A cute graphic novel about tea dragons, friendship, and traditions, perfect for fans of cozy fantasy.
Your thoughts?
Did you read Legends & Lattes? I want to know what you think!
- Who was your favorite character?
- Would you visit Viv’s coffee shop if it were real?
- Did you find yourself craving coffee or pastries while reading this?
Share your thoughts in the comments!
