This was a really lovely companion to Legends & Lattes - a little more of Viv and her backstory, as she unwittingly created close bonds with another odd group of loveable characters, with a little bit of a background threat running through the story.

Finally, I'm writing a review before a book is published! And that's because this cosy fantasy series is such a winner - it's the perfect NPC D&D world, where the side quest turns out to be the main quest after all (and there are books this time!).

Injured and fed up, Viv ends up in a sleepy backwater town where, between the bookshop, bakery and inn, there's not much to offer, especially for an orc that should be off fighting a necromancer.

But what makes Viv such a loveable character is her resourcefulness - although she gives the impression that she just wants to mope around and stab things with her rapier, she is kind-hearted and considerate and is always just looking for an opportunity. And, as she gets to know some of the community around her, involves helping others.

This was a lovely backstory to Viv's character, especially as we see her as a much younger orc who is learning how to care for other people.

And the other characters are delightful too - from the sweary ratkin bookshop owner, and the wannabe mercenary gnome to the kind-hearted dwarven baker, there's a great group of new personalities to meet too.

This wasn't quite as strong for me as Legends & Lattes - possibly because I just love a book where a business is being set up (it's a specific favourite, I know). But this brought together the same kind of story and satisfaction as before, but with a lovely new cast of characters, and a delightful bookshop setting.

I receive an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

‘Bookshops and Bonedust’ is the highly anticipated prequel to ‘Legends and Lattes’ - the book that epitomises the ‘cosy fantasy’ genre.

When Viv the Orc is injured during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she gets sent away from her crew, Rackham’s Ravens, to the small seaside town of Murk to recuperate. She’s itching to get back to the mercenary business, but when she hobbles around town she meets some of the colourful inhabitants of Murk including the small, furry and profane owner of the rather dilapidated local bookshop. Viv makes herself useful, helping to spruce up the bookshop, while its owner recommends books and gets Viv into queer romantasy fic. But of course, there’s also a mysterious character in a grey cloak snooping around town and, despite her injuries, Viv is always ready for action…

If there’s anything cosier than Viv starting a coffee shop, it’s Viv starting a book club! This was adorable - the perfect feel-good, found-family, heartwarming read and just as good as ‘Legends and Lattes’. It also includes a moving epilogue that catches up with the characters of L&L in the present. Absolutely loved it!

(Gifted ARC) Thank you so much to @panmacmillan for this ARC of Bookshops and Bonedust, the prequel to Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree. I’m not joking when I say the hope that I might get approved for this arc is basically the reason I created a @netgalley account in the first place, so I was super excited when I got approved! I basically ditched everything else I had going on to read this. I loved this book, possibly even more than Legends and Lattes, if that’s at all possible?! I loved finding out more of Vivs backstory, meeting Gallina, and all the various characters that you can’t help falling in love with! Satchel is my favourite in this one. I adore Travis’s writing, these books are literally like a warm hug, or the feeling you get when you have your first sip of hot tea when you come in from the rain. As always the imagery and world building is exceptional, and the way it all ties together with Legends and Lattes is genuinely astounding. I can’t wait for you all to read this, upon it’s publication in November!

Firstly, I was unbelievably excited when i got the email acceptance for this arc as i absolutely devoured and loved Legends and Lattes and have been waiting for something to fill the void ever since.
This book was the perfect prequel, which just enough references to the original text but also being separate enough and having enough character building that you could follow the story without having read Legends and Lattes.
I fell head over heels for the characters in this book (especially potroast) and enjoyed the weekend that I spent in their little world. As the king of cozy fantasy, Baldree has delivered another story of friendship, low stakes fantasy and community.
After finishing this, I feel the need to reread Legends and lattes, despite only finishing it two weeks ago! I adored this book and would recommend it to any fans of the original novel or cozy fantasy fans in general- an instant, no brainer 5 stars!!!

Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review Bookshops and Bonedust by Travis Baldree - after Legends and Lattes I didn't think I could fall in love with Viv even more. Boy was I wrong. I loved seeing how Viv was when she was younger, the romance and friendships that blossoms are just beautiful. I am now eagerly awaiting the release of the audio book as Travis is one of my favourite narrators. A well deserved 4 stars from me.

Whether you come to this story having read and loved ‘Legends & Lattes’, Travis Baldree’s debut and the sequel to Bookshops & Bonedust, or as a complete novice to the story, I have no doubt that you will find this book enchanting, cosy and charming.
It is difficult for me not to make direct comparisons between Bookshops & Bonedust and Legends & Lattes, because in many ways, they are very similar, but I think it’s important to note that the prequel in no way feels like a redo of the original.
Even Viv, the bellicose orc protagonist, is a different character to the one we meet 20 years in the future as she settles down to open a coffee shop. She is impulsive, less sure of herself, and itching for adventure.
The found family element that so many readers loved from Legends & Lattes definitely remained present, with new dynamics, friendships and characters that keep the story feeling fresh and new, whilst capturing the essence of Legends & Lattes.
In Bookshops & Bonesdust, Baldree so beautifully renders the slow and cosy atmosphere that drew such an impressive audience to Legends & Lattes, whilst also allowing for higher stakes, more pressing emotions, and a sense of adventure that I would like to see more from the author in future.
For those who don’t like swearing, this book may prove a tad distasteful for you, but I don’t think it takes away from the overall charm in any way – remember, this is an adult fantasy, not YA!

This has been a wonderful read - engaging, interesting and fun. Baldree's writing is comforting. A nicely written prequel to Legends and Lattes.

Bookshops & Bonedust is a cozy prequel to the events of Legends and Lattes. As such, I wasn't quite as invested in it because I knew Viv ended up totally fine. I also wasn't invested in the love interest for the same reason. It was still a warm, cozy, low-stakes fantasy book and if I'd read it before Legends & Lattes then I'm sure I'd have enjoyed it a little more. I really loved Satchel though, and hope that - if there are further adventures to be told about Liv - he makes an appearance.

In this novel we see Viv before the events of Legends and Lattes, very early in her mercenary career. Wounded she is left behind in small seaside town to recover.

There is something comforting about these cosy fantasy stories from Travis Baldree. I may not have enjoyed this one to the same scale as Legends and Lattes but I continued to enjoy being in Viv's company and the new characters we meet in this particular book.

Bookshops & Bonedusts takes us back into this cosy fantasy world of Baldree’s previous work. Legends & Lattes was such a wonderful, cosy, low-stakes fantasy, so I expected more of the same from this one. But it honestly felt a bit flat. I think this is largely down to it being a prequel - I knew it would all work out in the end and knew where Viv would end up. The stakes are a bit higher in this one, but knowing the future of character’s journey from the start just took out some of the excitement. I also didn’t feel as much of a connection to the characters. It had less quirks. It was a good book, but it feel short as a prequel.

I had high expectations for this book after loving legends & lattes so much and can safely say I was not disappointed!
This prequel gives readers the same cosy feeling as legends & lattes while exploring Viv’s character more. I also adored the new characters introduced in this book.
Overall the story was charming and endearing, everything you could want!

Legends and lattes was one of my favourite books last year! (made it to my top 10 of the year in the Bookshop)
This follow up will undoubtedly make it to that list too, Baldee has a way with words and Viv is a fantastically written character. If you loved the first you will fall in love all over again with this one!

"Bookshops & Bonedust" by Travis Baldree is a charming and imaginative fantasy novel that takes readers on a whimsical journey through a world where books hold mystical powers and secrets waiting to be unveiled. With its enchanting narrative and vivid world-building, the book offers a delightful escape into a realm where literature and magic intertwine.

Baldree's storytelling prowess shines as he weaves a tale that follows the adventures of intriguing characters amidst a backdrop of mystical bookshops and hidden wonders. The author's creativity is evident in his unique concept of book-based magic, which adds an extra layer of fascination to the story. Through the protagonist's eyes, readers are transported to a place where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary, and where every page turned could reveal untold mysteries.

The characters in "Bookshops & Bonedust" are well-crafted and endearing. The protagonist's journey of self-discovery is relatable, and their interactions with the various inhabitants of the fantastical world provide depth and heart to the narrative. The supporting cast, from quirky shopkeepers to enigmatic creatures, contribute to the book's rich tapestry of personalities and relationships.

Baldree's writing style is fluid and engaging, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the story. The pacing is well-managed, with a balanced blend of action, exploration, and introspection. While the book's plot holds moments of excitement and intrigue, it occasionally hints at deeper themes that could have been explored further. However, the focus on the magical elements and the protagonist's growth keeps the narrative engaging throughout.

One aspect that particularly shines in the novel is its portrayal of the interplay between literature, magic, and the human imagination. Baldree skillfully captures the essence of the connection between readers and the worlds that books create, underscoring the power of storytelling as a means of transformation and escape.

"Bookshops & Bonedust" is an enchanting read that will appeal to fantasy enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates a blend of adventure, magic, and literary charm. Travis Baldree's ability to transport readers to a world where books are gateways to the extraordinary is a testament to his storytelling prowess. While some readers might yearn for deeper explorations of certain themes, the overall experience of diving into this fantastical realm is one that will leave you captivated and wanting to explore further.

Travis Baldree has effortlessly crafted a diverse cast of characters that is incredibly relatable and emotionally rich; instantly touching your heart. While I haven't yet delved into 'Legends and Lattes', I've come across reviews praising its remarkable insight into Viv, our swash buckling, turned avid bookworm. 'Legends and Lattes' will definitely soon find its way on to my must-read list!

'Bookshops & Bonedust' offers a cosy, easy-going tale. Read now to lose yourself in the creative, bookish accounts, the nooks and crannies of its picturesque seaside town and delicious descriptions of tasty treats.

Disclaimer: I received a free e-arc from NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley, Travis Baldree and Panmillan (Tor).

I had high hopes for this after loving Legends & Lattes so much and it didn't disappoint. Bookshops & Bonedust is a prequel but can be read without having read Legends & Lattes. It follows Viv, an orc setting out on her journey to become a mercenary, having to recuperate after an injury in the sleepy town of Murk.

Not content to lie around resting, Viv becomes involved in helping local bookshop owner Fern rediscover her passion for bookselling. Together they give the bookshop a makeover in the hopes of saving the failing business. As a bibliophile, I loved Viv discovering books that spoke to her and seeing Fern's skills at matching the right book to the right person. Potroast was my absolute favourite though.

Alongside this is a sweet romance with a local baker and growing friendships with residents. Despite knowing Viv was going to leave, the story felt important to her journey as it helps her become the orc we know and love. There's also a sub-plot featuring a necromancer, a thief, and a satchel of bones but this somehow takes a backseat to the bookshop. The epilogue was the perfect way to tie the two books together and I would love to read more cosy stories set in this world one day.

Perfect feel good read and love getting to know more of Viv's backstory 😊
Found it a bit slow at times but overall enjoyed it.

Even better than the first book! I absolutely loved the characters in this one. Fern, Maylee and even Satchel have my whole heart. The whole book was just so wholesome and cosy! I adored it

First up, I'd like to thank @panmacmillan, @netgalley and @travis_baldree for the e-ARC of Bookshops & Bonedust in exchange for an honest review.

When an injury throws a young, battle-hungry orc off her chosen path, she may find that what we need isn't always what we seek.

In Bookshops & Bonedust, a prequel to Legends & Lattes, New York Times bestselling author Travis Baldree takes us on a journey of high fantasy, first loves, and second-hand books.

I'm always nervous when it comes to sequels (or prequels in this case), especially when it's to a book I loved, bc it can flop HARD. I am relieved, and pleased, to tell you that I LOVED this book. The storyline was just as good as the first; keeping me the right amount of excited so that I'm gripped, but not so much that it ruins the cozy vibes. Also, that ending made me cry, but in the best possible way<3

Once again, Baldree has written characters that I adore. If you read my Legends & Lattes review then you'll already know that I love Viv, with all her complexities, but these new side characters are perfection. Maylee is a sweet and wholesome baker, with an endearing amount of sass about her. Fern, the bookseller, is as intuitive a friend as everyone needs. Potroast is a little rascal who reminds me of my cat who passed, Denise. It's also so nice to see more of Gallina and understand who played a large part in molding Viv into the Viv we know and love. And don't get me started on how freaking cool Satchel is!

Thank you once again, Travis Baldree, for writing this gorgeous book. I loved every second of it and honestly just can't get enough of your work. So excited for my special editions to come in<3 also, um...book three??

There were a lot of topics covered in this book. The obvious being, right, wrong, good and evil, friendship and relationships. But it also covered others, injury and temporary disability, the differences between people being as common as if we were different but yet being all tied together. Unfortunately I did battle with the story and didn't enjoy it nearly as much as I did the first book.

What a fun and cosy book this was!

I absolutely love fantasy and bookshops so this was bound to be a hit with me. I have not yet read Legends & Lattes (although I plan to) and seen as it was described as a standalone prequel I thought I'd give it a go. I was not disappointed. You don't need to have read the first book to get along with this. The characters were well developed and I came to love all of them, especially Viv who I look forward to reading more about. I very much enjoyed the mix of the more low-key relationship development and on-going drama with the bookstore and characters in town, alongside the more high-stakes threat and dark fantasy elements.

Off to buy Legends & Lattes!