Fantasy Annotation

Author: Travis Baldree

Title: Legends & Lattes

Publication Date: June 7, 2022

Genre: Fantasy

Number of Pages: 296

Geographical Setting: The fictional town of Thune

Time Period: Set in the past - exact time unknown

Series (If applicable): Legends & Lattes (#1) 

Plot Summary:

Legends & Lattes is a fantasy novel that combines elements of the roleplaying game, Dungeons and Dragons, with the world of owning and running a coffee shop. The story follows Viv, an Orc and adventurer, who is putting down her sword for a quieter life. Her dream is to own and run her own coffee shop. During this process, she meets a cast of characters who support her through this journey. Viv has a secret though that could threaten to thwart her plans of living a quiet life with her newfound friends and business. 

Subject Headings (according to Novelist): 

• Coffee
• Friendships
• Life changing events
• Orcs
• Warriors
• Women business owners

Appeal:

Story Line

Legends & Lattes provides a cozy story of friendship and perseverance. Compared to other fantasy novels, there is little adventure but that doesn't make it any less appealing. There is still the storyline of good vs evil that is often found in fantasy novels. Readers will find themselves rooting for Viv and her friends to find happiness and success. 

Tone

"At the other end of the spectrum are Humorous Fantasy Novels. These highlight wit, puns, and other wordplay hijinks," (Wyatt & Saricks, 2019, p. 127). 

The tone of this novel is light-hearted and humorous. 

Characterization

The characters truly are the heart of this novel. Readers will find themselves rooting for our main character and all her friends. Viv is a multidimensional character who strives to find a new path for herself beyond her old adventurous ways. Tandri, while providing support to Viv and her new endeavors, is a strong character herself. She does not back down from a challenge and is loyal to those she cares about. 

3 terms that best describe this book:

cozy, heartwarming, and humorous

3 Relevant Non-Fiction Works and Authors

Of Dice and Men: The Story of Dungeons & Dragons and The People Who Play It by David M. Ewalt

For readers who are interested in learning more about the roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons.

The Element Encyclopedia of Magical Creatures by John Matthews

For readers who wish to learn more about mythical creatures. 

3 Relevant Fiction Works and Authors

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna 

A heartwarming fantasy that is perfect for fans of cozy reads. 

Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree

The prequel to Legends & Lattes is perfect for readers looking to read more about Viv and her earlier adventures. 

The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

A heartwarming fantasy with LGBTQIA+ characters. 

References

Wyatt, N., & Saricks, J. (2019). The Readers' Advisory Guide to Genre Fiction, Third Edition. American Library Association.