It’s been a while since I’ve posted a review on this site and truth is, with the exception of what I’ve been reading for college, I haven’t done a lot of reading. But that’s about to change as we’ve made a conscious decision to turn off the television most nights and read, and I have a great mix of fiction and nonfiction I hope to get to both on this holiday break as well as in the future. Without further ado, let me begin.
Review
If coy glances and innuendo over a frothy mug of a root beer variety and a quest that turns the characters’ worlds upside down are your brand of fantasy, then Tavern Tale, does not disappoint. The chemistry between the characters (Divine and Saph) is spicy and though the love scenes are fade to black, this is the kind of romantic relationship that smoulders in the pages. But don’t think this is just a romance, because the fantasy world is rich and immersive with world building that creates a place where the reader could imagine themselves. There are some typical fantasy races here, but also new ones, and the human/non-human dynamic echoes many of the issues our own very contemporary world faces as well. Though it’s clear where the characters stand, this is a rollicking adventure that had me turning pages. It was the first book I’ve read by this author; it will not be the last.
The perfect cozy read to curl up with and lose yourself for an evening or more.
Blurb
What if the side quest is really the main quest?
Divine, a healer of the Goddess of Souls, has chased the thief who stole her talisman across half of Trelvania. The talisman is the key to accessing her magic well, and without it, she is powerless. While chasing her betrayer, former girlfriend, and servant of the Goddess of Condemnation, Divine meets Saph, a flirty tavern owner with an eyepatch and a proposition. Saph will help Divine locate her talisman if Divine helps her complete a mysterious quest in a chest.
Inspired by RPGs and set in scenic autumn, prepare for an adventure with gods and goddesses, deceitful exes, axe throwing, and fantastical creatures. Can Divine learn to trust again and find romance in the middle of finding her magic?
Genres: Fantasy / Fantasy / Cozy / LGBT / Sapphic / Lesbian
Release Date: January 7, 2025 | review copy received from author | 5 stars
