Can't spell treason without tea by Rebecca Thorne

In her acknowledgement, Rebecca Thorne states that Can’t spell treason without tea is directly inspired by Travis Baldree’s Legends & and Lattes which was followed by Bookshops & bonedust. Fans of the cosy fantasy genre will be happy with this easy-to-read sapphic romance starring Reyna and Kianthe, who wish to leave their difficult lives and open a bookshop that serves tea. Reyna works as one of the Queen’s guards, and after an attack by an assassin, decides she doesn’t want to risk her life again for the vicious Queen. Meanwhile Kianthe, the Mage of Ages, wants nothing more than to run away with her girlfriend. Together they flee to the little town of Tawney, on the edge of dragon country, find an empty warehouse and set about realising their dreams. But of course, the Queen is determined to find Reyna, there are bandits in the area, and Kianthe still has duties to perform as Mage of Ages. Not to mention that dragons attack Tawney in search of precious eggs that have been stolen.

I enjoyed following the work that Reyna and Kianthe put into setting up their bookshop, sourcing tomes for the townspeople to read and making delicious tea and scones.  The vivid description of a cosy fire, comfortable armchairs and beautiful plants made the shop feel very appealing, especially to book lovers who also enjoy tea! All of the characters were well described and the romance between Reyna and Kianthe felt authentic. And the danger of prowling dragons added to the atmosphere.

Readers who enjoyed Can’t spell treason without tea will be pleased to know that the next in the series A pirate’s life for tea will be available.

Themes: Cosy Fantasy, Adventure, Friendship, Romance, LGBT, Dragons, Books, Tea.

Pat Pledger