This was a short, clever book that took all the things we have learned in the fantasy genre (elves, orcs, wizards and magic) and leveraged that background knowledge to tell a story that shows it is OK to be yourself and trust in your own instincts and friends you make along the way.
Another book that seems to fall into the “cozy” category, it is fun to read about a warrior who sets aside her broadsword and instead tries to open a coffee shop in a place where they have never heard are tasted the beverage.
The story is cute – lots of friendly characters (and a few unfriendly ones) but the stakes here are low and the whole things builds up to a satisfying conclusion. There is emotional support in here for shy/introverted people, cat lovers, minorities and people that experience prejudice, gay and lesbian people, and even reluctant lute performers.
I enjoyed this book – it was a quick read but satisfying and a sort of balance with the gritty and bloody world that is more often described in works of fantasy recently.
Next I am reading Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen.
