Tag: Bookshops & Bonedust

Out Now: LÉGENDES & LATTES, LA SAGA by Travis Baldree!

Posted on Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

Today, Ynnis Éditions publish a special French omnibus edition of Travis Baldree‘s Legends & Lattes series! Translated by Stéphanie Chaptal, it collects the novels LEGENDS & LATTES and BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, and the stories PAGES TO FILL and GOBLINS & GREATCOATS. Here’s the synopsis…

Cet ouvrage contient le roman Légendes et Lattes et sa suite, Sagas et Sable d’os, la nouvelle Des pages à remplir, ainsi que la nouvelle inédite Gobeline et Gabardine. Avec de toutes nouvelles illustrations et des extraits de journal intime de Viv et du carnet de notes de Pitts.

Une tasse de fantasy, des tranches de vie savoureuse et un zeste de romance !

Rencontrez Viv, une orc mercenaire au passé tumultueux, qui décide de changer de vie. Elle se lance dans une entreprise audacieuse : la création d’un café. Un pari risqué, car dans la ville de Tuine, les elfes, lutins et autres ratelins ignorent tout de ce breuvage peu ragoûtant… Son chemin croisera celui de personnages hauts en couleur, qui vivront avec elle des aventures où la magie n’est jamais très loin.

Aux côtés d’une succube très perspicace, d’un hobgobelin mutique et de divers alliés improbables, Viv devra réussir à se tailler une place dans un monde qui lui est inconnu, tout en protégeant coûte que coûte ce qui compte le plus pour elle.

The internationally-bestselling and highly acclaimed LEGENDS & LATTES and BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST are published by Tor Books in the UK and North America. Here’s the English-language synopsis for LEGENDS & LATTES…

A cosy, heartwarming slice-of-life fantasy about found families and fresh starts.

High fantasy, low stakes – with a double-shot of coffee.

After decades of adventuring, Viv the orc barbarian is finally hanging up her sword for good. Now she sets her sights on a new dream – for she plans to open the first coffee shop in the city of Thune. Even though no one there knows what coffee actually is.

If Viv wants to put the past behind her, she can’t go it alone. And help might arrive from unexpected quarters. Yet old rivals and new stand in the way of success. And Thune’s shady underbelly could make it all too easy for Viv to take up the blade once more.

But the true reward of the uncharted path is the travellers you meet along the way. Whether bound by ancient magic, delicious pastries or a freshly brewed cup, they may become something deeper than Viv ever could have imagined…

‘This is a warm hug of a book’ — T. Kingfisher, bestselling author of Nettle & Bone

‘The most fun I’ve ever had in a coffee shop’ — Ben Aaronovitch, bestselling author of Rivers of London

‘This sapphic triumph is an absolute must’ — Rebecca Thorne, bestselling author of Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea

‘This is a story about following your dreams, even when they take you away from who you thought you had to be. It’s sweet, beautiful and, most of all, kind. I hugely recommend this book’ — Seanan McGuire, author of the Wayward Children series

‘A gentle little cozy set against an epic fantasy backdrop… This charming outing will please anyone who’s ever wished to spend time in a fantasy world without all the quests and battles.’ — Publishers Weekly

‘This slice-of-life cozy fantasy novel has everything you’ve been searching for.’ — Buzzfeed

‘With its mysterious encounters, summer flings and a growing number of skeletons, Baldree’s fantastical novel is the perfect winter indulgence.’ — HuffPost Books (“Best Books We Read in 2023)

‘What I love about Travis Baldree is that set against an epic world of adventure, he writes about the small victories that make life worthwhile. BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST does this and it is glorious’ — Ben Aaronovitch

‘… a lovely coming-of-age story about a character trained for war who learns that there’s more to life than endless battles. What makes the story special is the way that so many stock fantasy archetypes are cast against type and find new modes of prospering that don’t involve big weapons and bigger wars… This prequel is the perfect place for readers to start Baldree’s cozy fantasy series where folks band together for good, and evil is conquered through cleverness and friendship.’ — Library Journal (Starred Review), SFF Pick of the Month

‘Baldree’s prequel to Legends and Lattes (2022) cements his talent for cozy fantasy, engaging characters, and anachronistic references that would be at home in a Discworld novel… Knowing where a character ends up often drains tension from a prequel, but Baldree avoids that pitfall because the joy of reading here isn’t a simple uncertainty over who lives or dies but rather watching friendships blossom and characters grow. Folks who enjoyed the camaraderie and settings of this year’s Dungeons & Dragons movie—as well as anyone who likes the idea of an orc warrior becoming a devotee of the power of reading and its ability to broaden your horizons—should check out Viv’s adventures.’ — Booklist (Starred Review)

‘Bestseller Baldree’s cozy standalone sequel to LEGENDS & LATTES shows that even a battle-hungry orc can find happiness in life’s simple pleasures… The innocent joy of Viv and Fern’s love is delightful and Baldree’s formula of placing low-stakes stories in high-fantasy settings remains good fun. Series fans will eat this up.’ — Publishers Weekly

‘This prequel gives readers a glimpse of Viv as a young orc, still committed to the fighter’s life, just taking an enforced break in a charming town populated by compelling, richly drawn characters, and the slightest hint of danger in the wind. Despite the lurking necromancer, the vibes are decidedly warm and cozy, and the plot is just as much about saving the bookstore and building relationships as it is about protecting the town from the man in gray. As a prequel, it can stand alone, but will certainly satisfy fans as well. Warm and wonderful.’ — Kirkus (Starred Review)

Travis Baldree’s 本屋をたてなおす Out Now!

Posted on Friday, May 30th, 2025

The Japanese edition of Travis Baldree‘s acclaimed, best-selling BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is out now! Published by 東京創元社, as 本屋をたてなおす, it was translated by 原島 文世. Here’s the synopsis…

戦闘中に大怪我をした傭兵ヴィヴ。治るまでと置いていかれたのは美味しいパンやスコーンを売るベーカリーもある小さな町だった。痛む脚で町を歩いていたヴィヴは潰れそうな本屋に入ってみた。まったく本に縁のないヴィヴだったが、店主の小鼠人が薦める本を読むうちに物語の虜になり、店主の尻をたたいて本屋の建て直しに着手する。友人たちの協力も得て、立て直しは順調に進んでいたが……。大人気の『伝説とカフェラテ』前日譚。

東京創元社 have also published LEGENDS & LATTES in Japan, as 伝説とカフェラテ.

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is published by Tor Books in the UK and North America, and is out now. Here’s the English-language synopsis…

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.

Set in the world of New York Times bestselling Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree’s Bookshops & Bonedust takes us on a journey of high fantasy, first loves, and secondhand books.

Viv’s career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk—so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it.

What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn’t possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn’t all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

Thai Edition of Travis Baldree’s BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST Out Now!

Posted on Friday, April 4th, 2025

The Thai edition of Travis Baldree‘s BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, the internationally-bestselling prequel to LEGENDS & LATTES, is out now! Published by Words Wonder, as ร้านหนังสือกับผงกระดูก, it was translated by Natchaya Hiranyasombat. Here’s the synopsis…

ภาคต่ออันน่าประทับใจของ Legends & Lattes

เรื่องราวสมัยวัยสาวของวีฟ ออร์กสาวนักต่อสู้และนักรบรับจ้าง วีฟบาดเจ็บจากการต่อสู้กับกองทัพผีดิบของผู้ครองมรณะ จึงต้องพักรักษาตัวอยู่ที่เมืองเล็ก ๆ ริมชายทะเลแห่งหนึ่ง ระหว่างที่ทรมานกับการพักฟื้น วีฟได้รู้จักกับเฟิร์น หนูแรตคินตัวใหญ่เจ้าของร้านหนังสือที่กำลังจะเจ๊ง เฟิร์นทำให้วีฟรู้จักกับความมหัศจรรย์ของการอ่านหนังสือ และเมืองเล็ก ๆ นี้ก็ยังทำให้วีฟได้รู้จักกับความรักครั้งแรก

หนังสือ ผงกระดูก ผีดิบ ผู้ครองมรณะ ความรัก และขนมปังอุ่น ๆ จะทำให้คุณตกหลุมรักอีกครั้ง!

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is published by Tor Books in the UK and North America, as is LEGENDS & LATTES. Here’s the English-language synopsis…

First loves. Second-hand books. Epic adventures.

Viv’s career with the renowned mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned. Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk – so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it. What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a struggling bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted. Even though it may be exactly what she needs. Still, adventure isn’t far away. A suspicious traveller in grey, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

Sometimes, right things happen at the wrong time. Sometimes, what we need isn’t what we seek. And sometimes, we find ourselves in the stories we experience together

Here are just a handful of the great reviews BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST has received so far…

‘What I love about Travis Baldree is that set against an epic world of adventure, he writes about the small victories that make life worthwhile. BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST does this and it is glorious’ — Ben Aaronovitch

‘… a lovely coming-of-age story about a character trained for war who learns that there’s more to life than endless battles. What makes the story special is the way that so many stock fantasy archetypes are cast against type and find new modes of prospering that don’t involve big weapons and bigger wars… This prequel is the perfect place for readers to start Baldree’s cozy fantasy series where folks band together for good, and evil is conquered through cleverness and friendship.’ — Library Journal (Starred Review), SFF Pick of the Month

‘Baldree’s prequel to Legends and Lattes (2022) cements his talent for cozy fantasy, engaging characters, and anachronistic references that would be at home in a Discworld novel… Knowing where a character ends up often drains tension from a prequel, but Baldree avoids that pitfall because the joy of reading here isn’t a simple uncertainty over who lives or dies but rather watching friendships blossom and characters grow. Folks who enjoyed the camaraderie and settings of this year’s Dungeons & Dragons movie—as well as anyone who likes the idea of an orc warrior becoming a devotee of the power of reading and its ability to broaden your horizons—should check out Viv’s adventures.’ — Booklist (Starred Review)

‘Bestseller Baldree’s cozy standalone sequel to LEGENDS & LATTES shows that even a battle-hungry orc can find happiness in life’s simple pleasures… The innocent joy of Viv and Fern’s love is delightful and Baldree’s formula of placing low-stakes stories in high-fantasy settings remains good fun. Series fans will eat this up.’ — Publishers Weekly

‘This prequel gives readers a glimpse of Viv as a young orc, still committed to the fighter’s life, just taking an enforced break in a charming town populated by compelling, richly drawn characters, and the slightest hint of danger in the wind. Despite the lurking necromancer, the vibes are decidedly warm and cozy, and the plot is just as much about saving the bookstore and building relationships as it is about protecting the town from the man in gray. As a prequel, it can stand alone, but will certainly satisfy fans as well. Warm and wonderful.’ — Kirkus (Starred Review)

‘This prequel gives readers a glimpse of Viv as a young orc, still committed to the fighter’s life, just taking an enforced break in a charming town populated by compelling, richly drawn characters, and the slightest hint of danger in the wind. Despite the lurking necromancer, the vibes are decidedly warm and cozy, and the plot is just as much about saving the bookstore and building relationships as it is about protecting the town from the man in gray. As a prequel, it can stand alone, but will certainly satisfy fans as well. Warm and wonderful.’ — Literary Hub

Travis Baldree’s BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST Wins an Audie!

Posted on Friday, March 7th, 2025

We’re very happy to report that Travis Baldree has won an Audie award! Specifically, BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, which is also read by the author, has won the award for Best Fantasy! Congratulations, Travis!

The internationally-best-selling prequel to the author’s LEGENDS & LATTES, the audiobook is published by Macmillan. Here’s the synopsis…

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.

Set in the world of New York Times bestselling Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree’s Bookshops & Bonedust takes us on a journey of high fantasy, first loves, and second-hand books.

Viv’s career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk—so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it.

What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn’t possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn’t all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

The print and eBook editions of the novel are published by Tor Books in North America and in the UK.

Travis Baldree’s BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is a 2x Audie Award Finalist!

Posted on Monday, January 27th, 2025

In case you missed the news last week, we’re very happy to report that BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST by Travis Baldree is a finalist in two Audie Award categories! The author’s second novel, it’s the internationally-bestselling prequel to his incredibly popular LEGENDS & LATTES! The novel is a finalist in the Fantasy and Narrated By the Author categories. Congratulations, Travis!

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is published by Tor Books in North America and in the UK. Here’s the synopsis…

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.

Set in the world of New York Times bestselling Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree’s Bookshops & Bonedust takes us on a journey of high fantasy, first loves, and secondhand books.

Viv’s career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk—so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it.

What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn’t possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn’t all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

The BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST Audiobook is on Sale this week(end)!

Posted on Wednesday, November 27th, 2024

Travis Baldree‘s second novel, the best-selling and acclaimed BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is on sale this week in the UK! It is included in Libro.fm’s Shop Small audiobook sale that started yesterday, and continues until December 2nd. The novel is the prequel to the acclaimed, internationally best-selling, and Book-Tok sensation LEGENDS & LATTES. Here’s the synopsis…

First loves. Second-hand books. Epic adventures.

Viv’s career with the renowned mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned. Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk – so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it. What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a struggling bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted. Even though it may be exactly what she needs. Still, adventure isn’t far away. A suspicious traveller in grey, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

Sometimes, right things happen at the wrong time. Sometimes, what we need isn’t what we seek. And sometimes, we find ourselves in the stories we experience together.

Set twenty years before the events of Legends & Lattes, Bookshops & Bonedust is a standalone cosy fantasy by BookTok sensation Travis Baldree about the power of good bookshops, great friends and the unexpected choices along the way.

Narrated by the author, the audiobook is published in the UK by Macmillan — the paperback and eBook editions are published by Tor Books.

LEGENDS & LATTES and BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST Hardcovers Out Now in North America!

Posted on Tuesday, October 29th, 2024

The wait is finally over: the special edition hardcovers of LEGENDS & LATTES and BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST are out now in North America! Published by Tor Books, these excellent new editions are musts for fans of Travis Baldree‘s acclaimed, internationally-bestselling cosy fantasy series. Read on for the books’ synopses, and also images of the hardcovers.

LEGENDS & LATTES was an Instant New York Times Bestseller, a Barnes & Noble Best Book of 2022, a Library Reads Pick, an Indie Next Pick, and a Goodreads Best Fantasy Choice Award Nominee. Here’s the synopsis…

The much-beloved BookTok sensation, Travis Baldree’s novel of high fantasy and low stakes.

After a lifetime of bounties and bloodshed, Viv is hanging up her sword for the last time.

The battle-weary orc aims to start fresh, opening the first ever coffee shop in the city of Thune. But old and new rivals stand in the way of success — not to mention the fact that no one has the faintest idea what coffee actually is.

If Viv wants to put the blade behind her and make her plans a reality, she won’t be able to go it alone.

But the true rewards of the uncharted path are the travelers you meet along the way. And whether drawn together by ancient magic, flaky pastry, or a freshly brewed cup, they may become partners, family, and something deeper than she ever could have dreamed.

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is a prequel to the author’s debut, and here’s the synopsis…

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.

Set in the world of New York Times bestselling Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree’s Bookshops & Bonedust takes us on a journey of high fantasy, first loves, and secondhand books.

Viv’s career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk — so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it.

What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn’t possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn’t all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

The two novels are also published in the UK, also by Tor Books.

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST Wraithmarked Kickstarter: One Week Left!

Posted on Friday, October 25th, 2024

You may have seen that there’s a Kickstarter running to create a deluxe edition of BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST by Travis Baldree. Well, there’s one week left to get involved! Full details over on the relevant Kickstarter page, but here are some mock-ups of the physical book…

Here’s the novel’s synopsis…

Viv’s career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk—so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it.

What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn’t possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn’t all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

Wraithmarked also created an acclaimed deluxe of Travis’s debut, LEGENDS & LATTES.

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST and LEGENDS & LATTES are also available in print and eBook, published by Tor Books in North America and in the UK.

Only Two Weeks to go until New Baldree Special Editions are Released!

Posted on Monday, October 14th, 2024

In two weeks, Tor Books are due to release the North American special hardcover editions of Travis Baldree‘s best-selling, widely-acclaimed LEGENDS & LATTES and its prequel, BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST!

Both books are only going to be available in a limited print run (other editions — paperback, eBook, and author-narrated audiobooks will remain available, of course). The new hardcovers feature new chapter art, beautiful new endpapers, and special stenciled edges.

Here’s the synopsis for LEGENDS & LATTES…

After a lifetime of bounties and bloodshed, Viv is hanging up her sword for the last time.

The battle-weary orc aims to start fresh, opening the first ever coffee shop in the city of Thune. But old and new rivals stand in the way of success — not to mention the fact that no one has the faintest idea what coffee actually is.

If Viv wants to put the blade behind her and make her plans a reality, she won’t be able to go it alone.

But the true rewards of the uncharted path are the travelers you meet along the way. And whether drawn together by ancient magic, flaky pastry, or a freshly brewed cup, they may become partners, family, and something deeper than she ever could have dreamed.

And here’s the synopsis for the #1 best-selling BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST…

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.

Set in the world of New York Times bestselling Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree’s Bookshops & Bonedust takes us on a journey of high fantasy, first loves, and secondhand books.

Viv’s career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk—so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it.

What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn’t possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn’t all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

Both novels are published in the UK by Tor Books, and are also available in an ever-growing number of translated editions around the world. Below are the regular-edition US covers and UK covers…

Two New Editions of BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST out now – and it’s a Book of the Month!

Posted on Wednesday, September 4th, 2024

Travis Baldree‘s internationally-bestselling and widely-acclaimed BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is out today in a new UK paperback edition! Published by Tor Books, it is a prequel to the author’s best-selling and word-of-mouth sensation, LEGENDS & LATTES. Here’s the synopsis…

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.

Viv’s career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk — so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it.

What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn’t possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn’t all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

Set in the world of New York Times bestselling Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree’s Bookshops & Bonedust takes us on a journey of high fantasy, first loves, and second-hand books.

The novel is also published today in Australia and New Zealand, also by Tor Books — for this edition, they’ve used the North American artwork.

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST received an incredible amount of early praise, and we’re sure even more great reviews are going to start pouring in as more people are able to read the novel. Here are just a few of the great reviews…

‘What I love about Travis Baldree is that set against an epic world of adventure, he writes about the small victories that make life worthwhile. BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST does this and it is glorious’ — Ben Aaronovitch

‘… a lovely coming-of-age story about a character trained for war who learns that there’s more to life than endless battles. What makes the story special is the way that so many stock fantasy archetypes are cast against type and find new modes of prospering that don’t involve big weapons and bigger wars… This prequel is the perfect place for readers to start Baldree’s cozy fantasy series where folks band together for good, and evil is conquered through cleverness and friendship.’ — Library Journal (Starred Review), SFF Pick of the Month

‘Baldree’s prequel to Legends and Lattes (2022) cements his talent for cozy fantasy, engaging characters, and anachronistic references that would be at home in a Discworld novel… Knowing where a character ends up often drains tension from a prequel, but Baldree avoids that pitfall because the joy of reading here isn’t a simple uncertainty over who lives or dies but rather watching friendships blossom and characters grow. Folks who enjoyed the camaraderie and settings of this year’s Dungeons & Dragons movie — as well as anyone who likes the idea of an orc warrior becoming a devotee of the power of reading and its ability to broaden your horizons — should check out Viv’s adventures.’ — Booklist (Starred Review)

‘This prequel gives readers a glimpse of Viv as a young orc, still committed to the fighter’s life, just taking an enforced break in a charming town populated by compelling, richly drawn characters, and the slightest hint of danger in the wind. Despite the lurking necromancer, the vibes are decidedly warm and cozy, and the plot is just as much about saving the bookstore and building relationships as it is about protecting the town from the man in gray. As a prequel, it can stand alone, but will certainly satisfy fans as well. Warm and wonderful.’ — Literary Hub

‘Travis Baldree has worked his magic again to create a story full of heart, and some of the loveliest characters that I’ve read. There’s a wholesome ensemble, some glimpses of Viv’s mercenary skills, as well as enough growth to help her grow into her coffee-shop persona, all tightly written. Highly recommended, and definitely one of my top reads this year.’ — Fantasy Book Critic

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is also the Blackwell’s Book of the Month in September!

In case you haven’t read it, yet, LEGENDS & LATTES is of course available now, in paperback, also published by Tor Books in North America, the UK, and Australia/New Zealand.

Travis Baldree’s BOEKWINKELS & BOTBREUKEN is Out Now!

Posted on Tuesday, August 20th, 2024

BOEKWINKELS & BOTBREUKEN, the Dutch edition of Travis Baldree‘s #1-bestselling, widely-acclaimed BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, is out today! Published by Z&K, here’s the synopsis…

In ‘Boekwinkels & botbreuken’ van bestsellerauteur Travis Baldree, de prequel op ‘Legendes & lattes’, neemt ork Viv je mee naar een badplaatsje met een gezellige boekhandel en bijzonder gezelschap.

Nadat huurlinge Viv gewond raakt, wordt ze naar het slaperige badplaatsje Murk gestuurd om te herstellen. Ze brengt daar heel wat uren door in de plaatselijke boekhandel met de grofgebekte Fern. Maar het avontuur is nooit ver weg. Een verdachte reiziger in grijs, een gnoom met attitude, een zomerliefde en talloze skeletten zorgen ervoor dat Murk niet zo’n saai badplaatsje is als het op eerste gezicht lijkt. ‘Boekwinkels & botbreuken’ is een heerlijke cozy fantasy van Travis Baldree, perfect voor de fans van TJ Klune en feelgood- en fantasylezers.

Z&K also published the Dutch edition of LEGENDS & LATTES – as LEGENDES & LATTES.

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is the prequel to Baldree’s equally-acclaimed and bestselling debut, LEGENDS & LATTES. Both novels are out now in the UK and North America, published by Tor Books.

Here’s the English-language synopsis for BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST…

A cosy fantasy about the power of good bookshops, great friends and the unexpected choices along the way.

First loves. Second-hand books. Epic adventures.

Viv’s career with the renowned mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned. Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk – so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it. What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a struggling bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted. Even though it may be exactly what she needs. Still, adventure isn’t far away. A suspicious traveller in grey, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

Sometimes, right things happen at the wrong time. Sometimes, what we need isn’t what we seek. And sometimes, we find ourselves in the stories we experience together…

Travis Baldree’s Книжки та кістяний пил Out Now in Ukrainian!

Posted on Wednesday, August 14th, 2024

It’s a great day for Ukrainian fans of cosy fantasy: Книжки та кістяний пил by Travis Baldree is out now! The latest translated edition of the widely-acclaimed and internationally-bestselling BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, it’s published in Ukraine by Артбукс (Artbooks). The novel was translated by Альона Крупка (Alyona Krupka). Here’s the synopsis…

Нова історія зі вже знайомого всесвіту Тревіса Болдрі! 

Вів — молода войовнича орчиця. Проте її кар’єра у знаменитій ватазі найманців, Ворренових Воронів, зачинається не зовсім так, як хотілося б. 

Переслідуючи могутню некромантку, Вів дістає поранення й опиняється на вимушених вакаціях у сонному приморському містечку Мурк. Що робитиме безталанна найманка, змушена тимчасово поміняти зброю на милицю? 

Збувати час серед моря книжок, у товаристві гострої на язик книгарки — либонь, остання забава, що могла спасти Вів на думку. Проте саме цього потребували її душа й тіло. І саме таке дозвілля дало початок колосальним змінам у її житті. 

Але й без пригод не обійшлося! Зіткнення з підозрілим чужинцем у сірих лахах, знайомство зі сварливою і амбітною гномкою, бурхливий курортний роман, навала озброєних шкелетів — виявляється, в Мурку не так уже й нудно!

Артбукс also publishes Travis’s debut, LEGENDS & LATTES in Ukraine, as Легенди та лате.

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is the prequel to Baldree’s equally-acclaimed and bestselling debut, LEGENDS & LATTES. Both novels are out now in the UK and North America, published by Tor Books.

Here’s the English-language synopsis for BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST…

A cosy fantasy about the power of good bookshops, great friends and the unexpected choices along the way.

First loves. Second-hand books. Epic adventures.

Viv’s career with the renowned mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned. Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk – so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it. What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a struggling bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted. Even though it may be exactly what she needs. Still, adventure isn’t far away. A suspicious traveller in grey, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

Sometimes, right things happen at the wrong time. Sometimes, what we need isn’t what we seek. And sometimes, we find ourselves in the stories we experience together…

Travis Baldree’s BOEKWINKELS & BOTBREUKEN out in Two Weeks!

Posted on Thursday, August 8th, 2024

The Dutch edition of Travis Baldree‘s #1 best-selling BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is out in two weeks! The prequel to LEGENDS & LATTES, BOEKWINKELS & BOTBREUKEN is due to be published in the Netherlands by Z&K, on August 20th. Here’s the synopsis…

In ‘Boekwinkels & botbreuken’ van bestsellerauteur Travis Baldree, de prequel op ‘Legendes & lattes’, neemt ork Viv je mee naar een badplaatsje met een gezellige boekhandel en bijzonder gezelschap.

Nadat huurlinge Viv gewond raakt, wordt ze naar het slaperige badplaatsje Murk gestuurd om te herstellen. Ze brengt daar heel wat uren door in de plaatselijke boekhandel met de grofgebekte Fern. Maar het avontuur is nooit ver weg. Een verdachte reiziger in grijs, een gnoom met attitude, een zomerliefde en talloze skeletten zorgen ervoor dat Murk niet zo’n saai badplaatsje is als het op eerste gezicht lijkt. ‘Boekwinkels & botbreuken’ is een heerlijke cozy fantasy van Travis Baldree, perfect voor de fans van TJ Klune en feelgood- en fantasylezers.

Z&K also publishes the first book, as LEGENDES & LATTES.

Both BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST and LEGENDS & LATTES are published by Tor Books in the UK and North America. Here’s the English-language synopsis for BOOKSHOPS…

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.

Set in the world of New York Times bestselling Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree’s Bookshops & Bonedust takes us on a journey of high fantasy, first loves, and secondhand books.

Viv’s career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk—so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it.

What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn’t possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn’t all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST was a best-seller on both sides of the Atlantic, and was a #1 Bestseller in the US.

Audio Spotlight: LEGENDS & LATTES in Germany!

Posted on Wednesday, June 12th, 2024

Today, we just wanted to draw your attention to the German audiobook editions of Travis Baldree‘s acclaimed, best-selling LEGENDS & LATTES and BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST! Both editions are published by Hörbuch Hamburg, and read by Stefan Kaminski. The German editions were translated by Wolfgang Thon (print and eBook editions published by DTV).

LEGENDS & LATTES is published as MAGIE & MILCHSCHAUM, and here’s the synopsis…

Schwert oder Kaffee? Das ist hier die Frage.

Viv, eine wilde und tapfere Ork-Kriegerin, ist nach Jahren voller Abenteuer und Fährnisse des Kämpfens müde geworden. Sehr zum Unwillen ihrer Gefährten beschließt sie, das Schwert an den Nagel zu hängen – und dafür ein Kaffeehaus zu eröffnen. In der Hafenstadt Thune setzt sie zusammen mit dem Hobbit Cal ihren Plan in die Tat um und lockt mit dem exquisiten Getränk schon bald Krieger, Zwerge und Wesen jeglicher Art an… und leider auch den bösen Elf Fennus, der von Viv ein geheimnisvolles Artefakt stehlen will. Eines Nachts steht das Kaffeehaus in Flammen… aber auch wenn Viv sich mittlerweile in den Succubus Tandri verliebt hat, ist sie alles andere als eingerostet und nimmt den Kampf auf!

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is published as BÜCHER & BARBAREN. Here’s the synopsis…

Keks oder Kampf – das ist jetzt die Frage!

Gerade als Ork-Kriegerin Viv mit ihrer Karriere als Söldnerin bei Rackam’s Ravens durchstarten will, verletzt sie sich bei einem Kampf und wird von der Crew in der Küstenstadt Murk abgesetzt. Verwundet ist Viv gezwungen, ihr Schwert vorerst beiseitezulegen. Bevor sie sich jedoch langweilen kann, trifft sie auf Fern, die sie in die Welt der Bücher entführt, und somit findet Viv ein neues Projekt: die Erneuerung des heruntergekommenen Bücherladens. Auch mit der Zwergin und Bäckerin Maylee verbringt Viv immer mehr Zeit. Doch Murk ist nicht die schläfrige Kleinstadt, für die Viv sie gehalten hat – die Gnomin Gallina will Viv um jeden Preis beweisen, dass sie eine gute Kämpferin für Rackam ist, und dann ist da auch noch ein Neuankömmling, der sein Unwesen in der Stadt treibt…

Both books are published in English by Tor Books (in the UK and in North America). The audiobooks are narrated by the author, and out now!

Travis Baldree’s KNIHKUPECTVÍ A KOSTNÍ PRACH Out Now!

Posted on Monday, June 3rd, 2024

The Czech edition of Travis Baldree‘s #1 best-selling BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is out now! The prequel to LEGENDS & LATTES, it’s published in Czechia by Laser, as KNIHKUPECTVÍ A KOSTNÍ PRACH. The novel was translated by Jitka Čupová. Here’s the synopsis…

Strávit hodiny v obleženém knihkupectví ve společnosti jeho prostořekého majitele je to poslední, co by Viv předpovídala, ale může to být přesně to, co potřebuje – zárodek změn, které si nedokázala představit. Dobrodružství však není tak daleko. Podezřelý cestovatel v šedém, skřítek s čipem na rameni, letní úlet a nepravděpodobné množství koster dokazují, že Murk je rušnější, než by Viv kdy čekala.

Laser also publishes the first book, as LEGENDY A LATÉČKA (also translated by Jitka Čupová).

Both BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST and LEGENDS & LATTES are published by Tor Books in the UK and North America. Here’s the English-language synopsis for BOOKSHOPS…

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.

Set in the world of New York Times bestselling Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree’s Bookshops & Bonedust takes us on a journey of high fantasy, first loves, and secondhand books.

Viv’s career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam’s Ravens isn’t going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she’s packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk—so far from the action that she worries she’ll never be able to return to it.

What’s a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn’t possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn’t all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST was a best-seller on both sides of the Atlantic, and was a #1 Bestseller in the US.