Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree
Rating 5 stars
Release date 9th November
Have you ever loved a book so much that you think that you get worried when the next one is announced, this was the book. When Legends and Lattes was released. I fell in love with it and it became such a cozy book for me and was a book at the right time. Bookshops & Bonedust was something I was worried about reading it but I do not know why I was worried about it because it had the same cozy vibes that legends and lattes had and it was something I loved, I am now feel that I am in the right mood to read this. I loved how this was a prequel and told us how Viv got to where she needed to and how she became who she did. And the ending was a cute way to land it off. Would I be upset if we get a few more books in this world- no I would not but I will also be happy if these are the only two we get. If you are looking for cozy fantasy to curl up to in the wintery nights then look no further than Bookshops & bonedust because even though I had my reservations about reading this book I am so glad I did and now I am wrapped up in a warm hug because of it. If you loved legends and lattes you will also love this hands down.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tor for allowing me to review this, I cannot wait to discuss with my friends how much I loved it, so go out and buy this book you will not regret it.

Review post will be up Sunday 5th Novemeber on Bookstagram

This book is the perfect prequel.

Viv's story starts with her getting injured in battle and having to rest for a few weeks.

Within those weeks she finds her love for reading and friends along the way.

Rest and recovering is what she is meant to be doing but somehow she gets involved in saving the village she is in.

This book is heartwarming, charming and a hug in a book.

This is an absolutely gorgeous warm and fuzzy fantasy. I was quite late to the Legends and Lattes party and wasn't sure whether this new book would live up to such a wonderful story but I think I might love Bookshops and Bonedust even more. I cannot recommend this book and Legends and Lattes enough to all readers. Even if you think you don't like fantasy you cannot help but fall in love with this wonderful world and its amazing characters.

A huge thank you to @panmacmillan and @travis_baldree for providing me with an eARC via @netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

During the hunt for a powerful necromancer, our lovable orc Viv is injured and despite her protests is packed off to a small town to recuperate. Choosing to spend her hours at a small bookshop in the company of the owner who has a rather colourful way with words, she realises that sometimes you meet the right people at the right time.

When Legends and Lattes graced me with its presence and description of ‘cosy fantasy’ I was intrigued, then I read it and fell in love with the new sub-genre, so much so that I didn’t think Baldree could pull it off again.

I was so wrong. This book is a prequel to Legends and Lattes and it is delightful! Baldree has spoiled us with an incredible cast of characters and a simplistic plot which is packed with adventure and I ate this book up.

My one tiny criticism? I felt this book lacked having the same amount of ‘slice of life’ moments that Legends and Lattes did. We see Viv discover and begin to enjoy reading and I just would’ve loved to see her love grow on the page.

Nevertheless, if you’re in a slump or just want a cosy, feel-good fantasy novel that’s easy to pick up and finish then this is the book for you. I cannot wait to see what else Viv gets up to!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Love love love this! I enjoyed this more than Legends and Lattes. I guess because I love books more than coffee! This is definitely a cosy fantasy for bibliophiles!

It’s fun and cosy just like Legends however as this is a prequel, the stakes a little lower as you know where Viv ends up in Legends.

It was still fun to hang out with Viv again and meet new characters.

𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚕𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚕𝚎 𝚖𝚒𝚛𝚛𝚘𝚛, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎𝚜 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚒𝚝 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚜𝚎𝚎 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚎𝚕𝚜𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚋𝚊𝚌𝚔.

Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75

Thanks to @netgalley and @torbooks for providing me with this arc in exchange for an honest review.

I’ll start off by saying: I am absolutely in love with this book, possibly even more so than it’s predecessor Legends & Lattes.

Bookshops & Bonedust is a prequel to the authors first novel, Legends & Lattes, and so takes place prior to L&L where a younger Viv is left behind in Murk following an injury during battle. She finds herself in this sleepy town with nothing to do so begins to explore and stumbles across Thistleburr, a cluttered bookshop run by Fern the foul-mouthed rattkin and her pet gryphet Potroast. Fern & Viv form a friendship through the beauty of books, and Viv goes on a journey of self-discovery thanks to Fern’s wonderful book recommendations, leading her to meet the most charming dwarf baker, Maylee.

This book has everything you could possibly wish for in a cosy fantasy book, it’s packed to the brim with bookish, cosy vibes, a little bit of action and a lovely romance. My favourite parts about this book were most definitely Fern & Potroast, who will stay with me for a while, and the epilogue, which ties into Legends & Lattes so perfectly. All of the characters in this book are so well developed, and the scenery is so vivid you can quite easily picture the sleepy town of Murk. so can’t wait to see what this author does next!!!

Bookshops and Bonedust was a cute read. We get to meet Viv again, this time earlier in her life when she's injured and forced to recover in the sleepy town of Murk.

I loved that it really feels like a younger version of the Viv we got to know in Legends and Lattes. She's less experienced, over-confident and battle hungry but you can see how she would grow into the Viv we already know.

No coffee in this book but we still have mouth-watering baked goods, wonderful friendships and the addition of books! Fern, the owner of the bookshops, was probably my favourite new character but she had competition. I think the fact that Viv's stay in Murk is temporary adds a really interesting dimension to the story

There's a bit more action (and skeletons) than in the first book but I'd still consider it cosy and it also made me laugh. Definitely recommend reading it if you enjoyed Legends and Lattes. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

I’m so glad Travis Baldree wrote this book, it was the perfect coziness that I was in desperate need of.

Bookshops and Bonedust is a prequel book, which means the story happens before all the events of Legends and Lattes, in this one Viv, our fierce, badass orc is badly injured in a fight and so she’s trap in the little seaside town of Murk until she recovers enough to join her crew again.

At first Viv is frustrated and angry, she wants back on the action and not to be stuck in a town where nothing happens but as the days passes and she meets all the adorable characters that live in Murk, Viv starts to have a new appreciation to the slow, calm way of living, even if she’s no completely ready to give up her sword, just yet.

It was so good to see Viv in the beginning of her career, she was so different than when we met her in Legends and Lattes and it was amazing seeing the difference in her personality, even if at her core she’s still the same.

This book had a little more action than the other one but I felt like it really fitted in, I hope this is not the last we see Viv.

Thanks Netgalley and Pan Macmillan, Tor for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review

What an excellent prequel this was! When I first began reading I felt a little nervous that it wouldn’t feel as cosy or fun as the first book, but I needn’t have worried!! The characters, setting and storyline are all wonderful and made for a truly enjoyable few hours reading. Thank you so much for this arc

I had a really good time reading this novel. It is probably the cosiest fantasy story I have ever read, and it felt nice. It is usually not my kind of story but it did not change my level of enjoyment.

The characters are quite friendly and appealing, and the universe is interesting. The plot itself is pretty simple but with a necromancer — I did not need more to be honest — and it brought a tiny pinch of darkness in all this light. But overall, the story is lighthearted and ideal for fall and winter with its comfy vibes.

Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for a honest review.

This book is the definition of cosy fantasy. It's unhurried and charming and there is a firm focus on friendship. It's light but very compelling. On top of that there are books and cakes at the centre of the story bringing people together. I loved my time in Murk.

I was very excited when the ARC for the second of Travis Baldree's books landed and read it immediately. This had the benefit of the book requiring a re-read prior to release day as it is an absolute joy.
In this book we meet Viv (protagonist of Legends & Lattes) when she as she is starts out on her journey as a mercenary, full of ambition, young, no fear and with a great deal to learn.
Viv is part of a Rackham's crew, famous in the mercenary world, who are searching for Varine an evil necromancer. Over confident in her abilities Viv is badly injured and is left by Rackham in the town of Murk to recuperate.
Here she meets Fern a rattkin who runs a dingy bookshop, Maylee who bakes like a dream at Sea Song and Gallina, who features in the first book. When Viv becomes hooked on reading after some astute recommendations by Fern she becomes invested in helping Fern and her bookshop succeed. This involves sprucing up the shop, linking in with Maylee for baked goods (and some gentle romance) and negotiating with a local author for book signings.
However shady characters lurk and the quiet of Murk is soon disturbed by Varine and her minions - luckily Viv is on hand with her friends to thwart the evil plans.
I loved this book and would heartily recommend, there is no need to have read Legends & Lattes but I would recommend that book too as it is just that good.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for access to this ARC, all views are my own.

so many hugs in such a relatively small book. This one was even better than levens & lattes. Travis mentioned he suffered from 2nd book syndrome, but it clearly does not show.
The story is about viv, at the start of her career. We meet Gallina, and it’s adorable. We get a look at viv’s life before the coffee shop, and how wonderful it is to experience a first love. It opens us up to the feelings of finding your first ever book, and how it changes you and it carries around with you. Travis’ way of storytelling is wonderfully sweet and inspiring. This book is by far the sweetest I’ve read this year. I am deeply in love with the settings, characters and story line of this book. The importance of healing, friendship and books. Many beautiful quotes which I cannot wait for to highlight in a physical copy.

Thank you, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to share my honest and tearful opinion of this wonderful story.

I have not (yet) read Legends and Lattes but really enjoyed this prequel. I think it was a great introduction to Viv and her world. A nice book to cosy up with during this unpleasant Autumn weather.

After really enjoying Legends and Lattes, I was sceptical there was a need for a prequel, what was there to add to Viv’s journey? However, the more I got into the story, the more I appreciated seeing a younger rasher Viv go through a relatable set of circumstances that most face at some point in their lives: not ending up where you planned. For Viv, this meant being stranded in a small coastal town and out of action until her leg could heal, hoping it would heal correctly to once again get deep into the battle fray.

We meet a new array of loveable characters and discover the origins of some old ones, all while revitalising a crumbling bookshop in a town that might just be about to be invaded by skeletons. The mild romance packs less of a punch than Legends and Lattes and there almost feels like too much action, especially further on, to be considered as cosy fantasy. However, it is just as easy to read and root for as its predecessor and is definitely an easy fantasy book to get cosy with. Sometimes you just need something easy. Plus it still has all the best parts (in my opinion) of many fantasy books; found family, banter and things not quite going to plan.

I would say you can read this first before Legends and Lattes but I felt like I got more from it reading Bookshops and Bonedust after (especially after a heartwarming epilogue).

Overall, if you enjoyed Legends and Lattes, you will enjoy this instalment and if you’re looking for your next fantasy series that is easy to read, has cosy elements and the great tropes- this is it.

Bookshops and Bonedust is a prequel to Legends and Latte, last year's hit cosy fantasy book. In Legends and Lattes, we see Viv, an orc who's decided to retire from bounty hunting and set up a coffee shop. Bookshops and Bonedust sees Viv at the beginning of her career, wounded from being young and cocky and having to heal in sleepy seaside town of Murk. To stop herself going stir crazy, she ends up in Fern's run down bookshop and helps to rejuvenate trade. But what mayhem is around the corner to disturb Viv's respite?

I enjoyed this, it has the same cosy charm that Legends and Lattes has: a cute settings, a mixed cast of friends and a romance interest. It's a great way to high fantasy if you don't read the genre and find it intimidating. I especially loved seeing all the friendships develop and seeing the bookshop itself flourish. If you've not read Legends and Lattes, then you could definitely pick this up first (just avoid the epilogue for spoilers for L&L). In fact, I think I possibly would have preferred this to be the first book I read in the series, I think I would have appreciated seeing Viv when she was younger first. Regardless, the books can be read in any order and I would recommend if you want something cosy with a side of adventure!

The second of Travis Baldree's books. Unusually it's a prequel. It is set before the events of Legends and Lattes.

If you enjoyed Legends and Lattes, then the chances are you'll also enjoy this book.

The story in Bookshops & Bonedust follows Viv, the orc, as she helps revitalise a small business - a bookshop (not really a surprise given the title). While doing this she also develops her own love of reading. However, it isn't quite 'Days at the Morisaki Bookshop'.

There is a nice array of side characters, similar to Legends and Lattes as well as a few elves and a serpent-woman. Just about everyone has good intentions, Viv has a sweet romantic story, and an evil necromancer meets her demise.

It's very similar to Legends & Lattes, with a big exception; there isn't really a huge amount of tension...as we already know Viv will survive the experience as we have met her already met a few years later...not in this town...not with these friends.

If you're looking for a cozy fantasy book, an easy read, it is worth the time. So check it out.

This review is based on a free copy of the novel received via NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.

"Bookshops and Bonedust" by Travis Baldree is a whirlwind of adventure, boasting sharp character development and an enthralling plot. It's a fabulous follow-up to the well-loved "Legends & Lattes". The magical elements are artfully interwoven, immersing you in a world of wonder. The tone balances humor and gravitas perfectly, and the pacing keeps you racing through the pages. A captivating and vivid journey for cozy fantasy enthusiasts – Baldree delivers again!

ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Pan Macmillan.

After reading Legends and Lattes I really didn't think I could love and relate to Viv any more. But here we are, right at the start of her career. The book opens up mid battle, Viv slinging her sword, boasting her body count as she goes before suffering a near fatal leg injury. She is taken to the closest town of Murk. A quiet harbour town where she's left to rest and recover from her injury. Restless and bored she ventures out and discovers a quaint little bookshop, owned by a foul mouthed Ratkin. Here she discovers there are a hundred different worlds waiting to be discovered between the pages, first loves to be conquered and friends to bide her time with. With her arrival comes trouble for this sleepy little beach town, and a battle like they've never seen before.

I had such high expectations going into this book having read Legends and Lattes a few months ago, and I absolutely was not disappointed. I enjoyed seeing Viv as a young warrior, her eagerness and stubborness really resonated with me, her restlessness and constant desire to be somewhere else, somewhere more exciting had me full of empathy. The snippets of books that Viv was reading was a clever touch and really brought the whole thing together for me. What bookworm doesn't love a book and books after all?
I loved meeting Gallina for the first time, her feistiness clashing with Viv's more introverted nature. I enjoyed seeing their relationship develop, Viv's tolerance for the dwarf growing as the book went on. I also thought the way Baldree introduces Blackblood, Viv's beloved Greatsword and how she acquires it was exciting. I could feel the anticipation straight away, Viv's need to get into battle after discovering Blackblood and feeling its weight in her hands after so long waiting to recover. Not only is there that quiet romance of Viv's first love, we also have a slow build up to what should have been an epic battle. This was the only bit that was a bit lack luster for me, I expected more and was left a little disappointed. However, the way the book wraps up at the end and the little epilogue in the future left me desperate for the next chapter in Viv's story! I really hope we get more in this series.

If you've read Legends and Lattes and loved it, then you definitely need to read Bookshops & Bonedust. If you haven't then honestly you're missing out! Autumn is the perfect time to curl up with these beautiful cozy books. If you love cozy fantasies then this duo definitely needs to be on your tbr immediately!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance reading copy of this book with no obligation to review.

Reading this book was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. Fantasy used to be a favourite genre of mine but I have moved away from it over the years but this book was so good. Many of the characters are female and amazingly for the genre they can actually do stuff for themselves and are strong, capable and resolute.

Viv the Orc is a great creation, what a character! Gallina is a gnome mercenary, Maylee is a dwarf baker (and ex warrior) and Fern is a rattkin bookseller.

The town of Murk is delightfully described, you can almost smell the salt and hear the cries of the sailors and smell the delicious items from the bakery.. The characters are well drawn and easily distinguished - I didnt get any of them mixed up at any time. The dialogue is realistic although maybe Fern swears a little too much and there is a lot of humour in the banter of the characters. The bit near the end when they go to find what is stealing the sheep is actually quite nail biting.

Amusingly, the book also has extracts from other books in it from that world as, for various reasons, the characters discover the joy of reading. There are some excellent haikus too, presumably written by the author. I do love a haiku.

My favourite character was Satchel and although there is an epilogue, I would have liked to know more about Satchel Gallina and Maylee.

This book is actually a prequel and i have now bought the first book Legends and Lattes.

I think Terry Pratchett fans might like this.