Two More Editions of LEGENDS & LATTES in Translation!


Travis Baldree continues his quest for global domination! His best-selling and critically-acclaimed debut novel, LEGENDS & LATTES, is now available in two more translated editions! Here are the details…

The novel is available in Ukraine, published by Артбукс, as Легенди та лате (cover above). This edition was translated by Ірина Кобилінська. Here’s the synopsis…

Затишне фентезі з подвійною порцією пошуку свого шляху в житті.

Орчиця Вів стомилася від десятиліть роботи мечем та кровопролить. Після останнього завдання вона вирішує розпрощатися з минулим життям. Забута легенда, казковий артефакт і примарна надія заводять її на вулиці Тьюна, де Вів сподівається відкрити першу в місті кав’ярню.

Однак здійснити мрію почати все з чистого аркуша й змінити меч на кавоварку не так легко. Зруйнувати плани Вів прагнуть давні закляті друзі та негласні господарі Тьюна. Щоб збудувати нарешті щось стале, орчиці потрібні нові друзі та нові підходи до розв’язання проблем.

На читачів чекає гаряче горня фантастичного світу з романтичною пінкою!

The second new edition is published in Slovakia, by Zelený Kocúr, as LEGENDY & LATTE. This edition has very nice sprayed-edges, too, as you can see in the image above.

Fantasy ľahučké ako mliečna pena s dvojitým espressom sebaspoznávania

Viv sa po rokoch rozhodla opustiť život plný násilia a krviprelievania a raz a navždy zavesiť svoj meč na klinec. Unavená z nekonečných bojov si zaumienila, že obráti list a otvorí prvú kaviareň v meste Thune. V ceste jej však stoja mnohé prekážky vrátane skutočnosti, že obyvatelia mesta nemajú potuchy, čo vlastne káva je. Orkyňa túži zanechať staré chodníčky a pohnúť sa ďalej, no bez pomoci to určite nezvládne. Skutočné bohatstvo jej novej neprebádanej cesty však spočíva v pútnikoch, ktorých na nej stretá. A či už ich zviedla dokopy prastará mágia, lahodné koláče alebo šálka čerstvo uvarenej kávy, časom sa z nich azda vykľujú partneri, rodina, ba možno aj čosi viac, čo by si Viv nedokázala predstaviť ani vo sne.

LEGENDS & LATTES is published by Tor Books in the UK and North America, and is out now! Here’s the English-language synopsis…

A cosy, heartwarming slice-of-life fantasy about found families and fresh starts,Legends & Lattes is perfect for fans of TJ Klune, Katherine Addison and T. Kingfisher. From the Hugo Award-winning author, Travis Baldree.

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…

Travis Baldree’s SAGAS & SABLE D’OS Out Today in France!


The French edition of BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is out today! SAGAS & SABLE D’OS is published by Ynnis Editions, and is the second acclaimed cosy fantasy novel by Travis Baldree — the best-selling prequel to the (also best-selling), widely-acclaimed and online phenomenon LEGENDS & LATTES. The novel was translated by Stéphanie Chaptal. Here’s the synopsis…

20 ans avant Légendes & Lattes, l’aventure commence ici…

Ça y est : la vie de mercenaire commence enfin pour Viv et avec elle, la gloire, la fortune… et le danger. Mais les choses ne se passent pas comme prévu pour la jeune orc, confiante à l’excès. À la suite d’un terrible accident, son équipe l’abandonne à Grise, une ville (bien trop) paisible. Morose et désœuvrée, Viv rentre par hasard dans une librairie… qui va changer à jamais le cours de son existence. Et lorsqu’un mystérieux homme grisâtre fait son apparition en ville, et met en danger ses nouveaux amis, la jeune femme va devoir prendre des décisions bien difficiles.

Travis Baldree est un narrateur de livres audio à plein temps qui a prêté sa voix à des centaines d’histoires. Avant cela, il a passé des décennies à inventer et bâtir des jeux vidéo comme Torchlight, Rebel Galaxy et Fate. Visiblement, il écrit désormais des livres. Il vit au nord des États-Unis dans le Nord-Ouest Pacifique avec sa famille très patiente et leur petit chien très nerveux.

LEGENDS & LATTES and BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST are published by Tor Books in the UK and North America. Both were bestsellers in their respective markets.

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

Set in the world of BookTok sensation Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree’s Bookshops & Bonedust is 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…

Ynnis has also published the French edition of LEGENDS & LATTES, also translated by Stéphanie Chaptal.

Russian edition of Ian McDonald’s KING OF MORNING, QUEEN OF DAY out now!


There’s a new Russian edition of KING OF MORNING, QUEEN OF DAY by Ian McDonald! Published by ACT, as Король утра, королева дня; it was translated by Natalia Osoianu (Наталии Осояну). Here’s the synopsis…

1913 год. Ирландия. Юная Эмили Десмонд убеждена, что встретилась с фейри, в то время как ее отец пытается построить машину для установления контакта с инопланетянами. Он убежден, что приближающаяся к Земле комета Белла — это корабль, летящий к нам со звезды Альтаир.

Середина 1930-х годов. Официантка Джессика Колдуэлл начинает сталкиваться со странными феноменами в совершенно реальном Дублине и постепенно приходит к выводу, что ее фантазии склонны обретать плоть. Одновременно с этим в город прибывают два таинственных незнакомца, у которых есть миссия: охранять наш мир от пришельцев из вне.

Конец 1980-х годов. Энья Макколл, сотрудница рекламного агентства, с помощью своих сверхъестественных способностей по ночам уничтожает монстров, воплощения человеческих кошмаров и фантазий. Грани между мифом и реальностью истончаются, битва Эньи, страдающей от одиночества и усталости, казалось бы, проиграна, но причины разрушения мира вокруг нее таятся в начале века, в юной Эмили Десмонд, когда-то увидевшей фейри.

Три времени, три истории, три героини и их встречи с темной стороной человеческого мифосознания, а также с тайнами собственного прошлого. Но мир легенд и мир фейри обманчив, и никому нельзя доверять в попытках вырваться из его цепких объятий.

The novel was originally published in , KING OF MORNING, QUEEN OF DAY is published by JABberwocky in the UK and North America.

In Ireland, three generations of young women fight to control the powers coursing through their blood: the power to bring the mystical Otherworld into our world, and change it.

Emily, Jessica and Enye must each face their dark side of human mythoconsciousness–and their own personal histories. But the forces of faerie are ever treacherous…

Filled with vivid, passionate characters you will never forget, King of Morning, Queen of Day is a spellbinding fantasy of the real Ireland.

Ian’s latest novel is the widely acclaimed HOPELAND, published by Gollancz (UK) and Tor Books (North America).

Travis Baldree’s BÜCHER & BARBAREN is Out Now!


BÜCHER & BARBAREN, the German edition of Travis Baldree‘s highly-anticipated second novel, BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, is out now! Published by DTV, and translated by Wolfgang Thon, here’s the synopsis…

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 …

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is also out in North America, published by Tor Books; in the UK, published by Tor Books; and in Poland, published by Insignis. 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.

Here are just a few of the many great reviews the novel 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

‘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)

‘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.’ — 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

ICYMI: THE MASQUERADES OF SPRING Out Later this Year!


In case you missed the news, we wanted to take this opportunity to remind fans of Ben Aaronovitch‘s Rivers of London series that his next novella is out later this year! THE MASQUERADES OF SPRING is due to be published in the UK by Gollancz/Orion on September 5th! Once again taking the action across the Pond, here’s the synopsis…

New York City, New York.

Meet Augustus Berrycloth-Young – fop, flaneur, and Englishman abroad – as he chronicles the Jazz Age from his perch atop the city that never sleeps.

That is, until his old friend Thomas Nightingale arrives, pursuing a rather mysterious affair concerning an old saxophone – which will take Gussie from his warm bed, to the cold shores of Long Island, and down to the jazz clubs where music, magic, and madness haunt the shadows…

The novella will also be available in North America, published by Subterranean Press (shipping in September); and also in Germany, published by DTV (September 11th) — translated by Christine Blum.

Here’s the German-language synopsis, too…

Eine Nachtigall in New York

New York, 1920er-Jahre: Augustus Berrycloth-Young, Absolvent der Zauberschule Casterbrook, ist unangenehm überrascht: Denn unangekündigt steht sein alter Schulkamerad Thomas Nightingale vor der Tür und reißt ihn aus seinem behaglichen Leben.

Nightingale ist auf geheimer Mission nach New York geschickt worden, um ein verzaubertes Saxophon ausfindig zu machen, das seltsame Kräfte entfaltet, wenn es gespielt wird. Und ausgerechnet Augustus soll ihm helfen, dabei will er eigentlich nur das Dolce Vita genießen.

Auf der Suche machen die beiden Männer die Jazzclubs der Metropole unsicher und machen unfreiwillig mit der nicht-magischen und korrupten Polizei Bekanntschaft … 

SAGAS & SABLE D’OS by Travis Baldree is out in Two Weeks!


In two weeks, Ynnis Editions are due to publish the French edition of BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, the second acclaimed cosy fantasy novel by Travis Baldree — it’s the best-selling prequel to the (also best-selling) and widely-acclaimed LEGENDS & LATTES. Published in French as SAGAS & SABLE D’OS, it was translated by Stéphanie Chaptal. Here’s the synopsis…

20 ans avant Légendes & Lattes, l’aventure commence ici…

Ça y est : la vie de mercenaire commence enfin pour Viv et avec elle, la gloire, la fortune… et le danger. Mais les choses ne se passent pas comme prévu pour la jeune orc, confiante à l’excès. À la suite d’un terrible accident, son équipe l’abandonne à Grise, une ville (bien trop) paisible. Morose et désœuvrée, Viv rentre par hasard dans une librairie… qui va changer à jamais le cours de son existence. Et lorsqu’un mystérieux homme grisâtre fait son apparition en ville, et met en danger ses nouveaux amis, la jeune femme va devoir prendre des décisions bien difficiles.

Travis Baldree est un narrateur de livres audio à plein temps qui a prêté sa voix à des centaines d’histoires. Avant cela, il a passé des décennies à inventer et bâtir des jeux vidéo comme Torchlight, Rebel Galaxy et Fate. Visiblement, il écrit désormais des livres. Il vit au nord des États-Unis dans le Nord-Ouest Pacifique avec sa famille très patiente et leur petit chien très nerveux.

LEGENDS & LATTES and BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST are published by Tor Books in the UK and North America. Both were bestsellers in their respective markets.

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

Set in the world of BookTok sensation Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree’s Bookshops & Bonedust is 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 LEGENDES & LATTES Out Now in the Netherlands!


Travis Baldree‘s acclaimed and bestselling debut novel, LEGENDS & LATTES is out now in the Netherlands! Published by Z&K as LEGENDES & LATTES, it was translated by Erica Disco. Here’s the synopsis…

De avontuurlijke ork Viv is toe aan iets nieuws. Na een leven als huurling vol gevechten en bloedvergieten, besluit ze haar zwaard in te ruilen voor een koffiebar in een klein dorpje. Maar dat is een flinke uitdaging… Rivalen proberen haar plannen te dwarsbomen en dan is er ook nog het kleine detail dat niemand in het dorp ooit van koffie heeft gehoord. Gelukkig staat Viv er niet alleen voor. Met nieuwe vrienden, vertrouwen en geluk lijkt haar niets meer in de weg te staan. Of is ze zelf haar grootste vijand?

‘Legendes & lattes’ van Travis Baldree is een heerlijk avontuurlijk cozy fantasyboek, voor zowel de fantasy- als de feelgoodlezers!

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

Legends & Lattes from Hugo Award-winning Travis Baldree is 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…

The New York Times #1 bestselling prequel, BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, is also available in the UK and North America, published by Tor Books.

Coming Soon: BOEKWINKELS & BOTBREUKEN by Travis Baldree!


The Dutch edition of Travis Baldree‘s #1-bestselling, widely-acclaimed BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is out soon! BOEKWINKELS & BOTBREUKEN is due to be published by Z&K on August 21st. Here’s the synopsis…

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 will also published the Dutch edition of LEGENDS & LATTES – as LEGENDES & LATTES – next week!

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…

Out Tomorrow: Zelazny’s FRANCIS SANDOW Omnibus Edition in Russia!


Tomorrow, Fanzon/Эксмо are due to publish Roger Zelazny‘s Francis Sandow fiction in a new Russian omnibus edition! The collection includes Остров мертвых (ISLE OF THE DEAD) Умереть в Италбаре  (TO DIE IN ITALBAR), here’s the synopsis…

Лауреат премии «Аполло».

Финалист премии «Небьюла».

Знакомьтесь, Фрэнсис Сэндоу — практически бессмертный создатель планет, один из богатейших людей галактики тридцать второго века, да еще и связанный с одним из инопланетных богов. Однажды он сотворил кошмарный Остров мертвых, воплотив болезненные образы Арнольда Бёклина, земного художника из далекого девятнадцатого века. И теперь, чтобы спастись от загадочного врага, который может проникать даже в глубины подсознания Сэндоу, ему придется покинуть свою личную планету и посетить Остров в реальности, а не только во снах. Но даже эта угроза меркнет перед лицом общегалактической пандемии, невольной причиной которой становится доктор фон Хаймек… и предотвратить которую способен лишь Сэндоу.

Впервые полное издание цикла «Фрэнсис Сэндоу»: два романа и дополнительные материалы. Новые переводы и новые тексты!

Here’s the English-language synopsis for ISLE OF THE DEAD

Centuries in the future, Francis Sandow is the only man alive who was born as long ago as the 20th century. His body is kept young and in perfect health by advanced scientific methods; he has amassed such a fortune that he can own entire planets; and he has become a god. No, not a god of Earth, but one of the panetheon of the alien Pei’ans: he is Shimbo of Darktree, Shrugger of Thunders. Yet he doesn’t believe that his personality has merged with the ancient consciousness of Shimbo, that he really can call down the skies upon his enemies.

The time comes, however, when Francis Sandow must use these powers against the most dangerous antagonist in the universe: another Pei’an god — Shimbo’s own enemy, Belion. And Belion has no doubt whatever of his own powers…

Lavie Tidhar’s MAROR Out Today in Germany!


Lavie Tidhar‘s acclaimed novel MAROR is out today in a new German edition! Published by Suhrkamp, it was translated by Conny Lösch. Here’s the synopsis…

Israel, 1974-2008. Zwei Polizisten führen uns durch fast vier Jahrzehnte israelischer Geschichte. Cohen, der Strippenzieher im Hintergrund, und Avi Sagi, der den korrumpierenden Versuchungen seines Jobs nicht widerstehen kann. Diese Geschichte ist die dunkle Geschichte Israels. Der Patriot Cohen kennt nur eine Aufgabe – seinen Staat zu beschützen, auch wenn er dafür die bittersten Realitäten akzeptieren muss und gnadenlos danach handelt. Cohen und Sagi haben es mit jüdischen, arabischen und türkischen Gangstern, mit der CIA und dem KGB, mit den Contras und den Kartellen, mit militanten Orthodoxen und anderen Playern mehr zu tun. Cohen versucht, »die Dinge in der Balance zu halten«, und kennt dabei keine Grenzen.

Tidhar entwirft ein gewaltiges, kaleidoskopisches Panorama aus politischen Skandalen, Korruption, Mord und Verbrechen auf staatlicher und privater Ebene, das sich auch auf die weltweiten Aktivitäten Israels bezieht. Ein Epos, das zu Recht mit Balzac und Dickens verglichen wurde. Ein Epos auch über Moral und Realpolitik, eine Art Chronique scandaleuse Israels und ein grimmiges, schwarz-humoriges Plädoyer für dessen Existenzrecht. Maroreben, wie die bitteren Kräuter auf dem Sederteller: »Mit bitteren Kräutern sollen sie es essen.« (Exodus, 12:8)

MAROR is the first novel in Tidhar’s Matter of Israel series, and is published in the UK by Head of Zeus/Apollo. The second novel, ADAMA, is also out now.

Here’s MAROR‘s English-language synopsis…

How do you build a nation?

It takes statesmen and soldiers, farmers and factory workers, of course. But it also takes thieves, prostitutes and policemen.

Nation-building demands sacrifice. And one man knows exactly where those bodies are buried: Cohen, a man who loves his country. A reasonable man for unreasonable times.

A car bomb in the back streets of Tel Aviv. A diamond robbery in Haifa. Civil war in Lebanon. Rebel fighters in the Colombian jungle. A double murder in Los Angeles.

How do they all connect? Only Cohen knows.

Maror is the story of a war for a country’s soul – a dazzling spread of narrative gunshots across four decades and three continents.

It is a true story. All of these things happened.

The novel, which was a Guardian and Economist Best Book of 2022, has received an incredible amount of praise since it was published. Here’s just a small selection…

‘Some write in ink, others in song, Tidhar writes in fire… MAROR is a kaleidoscopic masterpiece, immense in its sympathies, alarming in its irreverences and altogether exhilarating.’ — Junot Díaz

‘One of the boldest, most visionary writers I’ve ever read creates both a vivid political exploration and a riveting crime epic. It’s like the Jewish Godfather!’ — Silvia Moreno-Garcia

‘A masterpiece of the sacred and the profane … a literary triumph.’ — Guardian

‘Amos Oz’s A Tale of Love and Darkness… Fade[s] into oblivion compared with Lavie Tidhar’s magnificent novel MAROR, a panoramic look at four decades of the dark, despicable side of Israel, of death, corruption, violence and drugs… It’s a brilliant undertaking.’ — Jewish Chronicle

‘One of the sensational novels of 2022, a violent rollercoaster and drug-fuelled ride into Israel’s history’ — Jewish Chronicle (as part of ADAMA review)

MAROR blends the page-turning wit of a hard-boiled detective noir with the stirring intrigue of a multi-national political epic. An ambitious achievement that weaves a tapestry of both story and statement.’ — Kevin Jared Hosein

‘A bloody beast of a book… MAROR is to Israeli history what Tarantino is to American movie culture’ — Daily Mail

‘Comparisons to James Ellroy and Marlon James are valid… On every page we feel we’re among real, breathing people… [a] compelling, unflinching roman-fleuve.’ — Times Literary Supplement (joint review of ADAMA and MAROR)

‘Radiant with all the brutally elegant atmosphere of crime noir, and the richly nuanced complexity and style of Marlon James’ A Brief History of Seven Killings, it’s a genre-busting novel that will catch your breath … At once illuminating, thrilling and thought-provoking, this tale of corruption, killings, sacrifice and the souls that make up a nation is a symphonic feat of fiction.’ — LoveReading

Three Weeks: Travis Baldree’s LEGENDES & LATTES Out in the Netherlands!


The Dutch edition of Travis Baldree‘s acclaimed and bestselling debut novel, LEGENDS & LATTES is due out in just three weeks! To be published by Z&K as LEGENDES & LATTES, it will be out on May 1st, 2024. Translated by Erica Disco, here’s the synopsis…

De avontuurlijke ork Viv is toe aan iets nieuws. Na een leven als huurling vol gevechten en bloedvergieten, besluit ze haar zwaard in te ruilen voor een koffiebar in een klein dorpje. Maar dat is een flinke uitdaging… Rivalen proberen haar plannen te dwarsbomen en dan is er ook nog het kleine detail dat niemand in het dorp ooit van koffie heeft gehoord. Gelukkig staat Viv er niet alleen voor. Met nieuwe vrienden, vertrouwen en geluk lijkt haar niets meer in de weg te staan. Of is ze zelf haar grootste vijand?

‘Legendes & lattes’ van Travis Baldree is een heerlijk avontuurlijk cozy fantasyboek, voor zowel de fantasy- als de feelgoodlezers!

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

Legends & Lattes from Hugo Award-winning Travis Baldree is 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…

The New York Times #1 bestselling prequel, BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, is also available in the UK and North America, published by Tor Books.

Travis Baldree’s LEGENDOJA JA LATTEJA out Tomorrow in Audiobook!


The Finnish audiobook edition of Travis Baldree‘s acclaimed, best-selling LEGENDS & LATTES is out tomorrow! It is published by Otava’s Karisto imprint, as LEGENDOJA JA LATTEJA, and was translated by Jade Haapasalo. The audiobook is narrated by Kati Tammensola. Here’s the synopsis…

Lämminhenkinen fantasia-bestseller on kuin halaus kansien välissä.

Barbaarielämän uuvuttama Viv päättää muuttaa elämänsä kertaheitolla. Legenda mystisestä taikaesineestä saa hänet tavoittelemaan liki mahdotonta haavetta: hän aikoo perustaa vilkkaaseen Thuneen kaupungin ensimmäisen kahvilan.

Uusi alku on kuitenkin huteralla pohjalla. Entisen elämän ryökäleet ja Thunen alamaailman hiipparit laittavat kapuloita rattaisiin — eikä kukaan tunnu edes tietävän, mitä kahvi on! Viv tarvitseekin uusia kumppaneita ja rautaisen luottamuksen suunnitelmansa onnistumiseen.

Muinainen magia, kuohkeat leivonnaiset ja kuumat kupposet — siinäkö on avain ystävyyteen tai kenties johonkin sitäkin syvempään?

The novel is published by Tor Books in the UK and North America, as well as a considerable, growing number of translated editions around the world. Here’s the English-language synopsis…

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…

In addition to landing on many Best Of lists, the novel received a great number of excellent reviews. Here are just a few of them…

‘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 McGuireNew York Times bestselling author of Every Heart A Doorway

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

‘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)

‘An orc retires from adventuring to start a fantasy city’s very first coffee shop. This setup combined with the positive messages of defying societal stereotypes, letting go of violence to build peace, and trusting in your friends feels like a premise from Terry Pratchett’s Discworld… LEGENDS & LATTES is a novel, and shop, that will delight anyone who enjoys coffee-shop alternate universes, slow-burn romances, and the vindication of friendship.’ — Booklist, starred review

‘A stunningly-well done story at every level’ — Fantasy Faction

‘If you like fantasy but you’re tired of reading about wars and general intensity, this is the book for you… Cozy fantasy at its best.’ — Literary Hub

Travis’s second novel, BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, is also out now — it is a prequel to LEGENDS & LATTES. It is also published by Tor Books in the UK and North America.

Travis Baldree’s KOPONYÁK ÉS KÖNYVESBOLTOK Out Now in Hungary!


BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST by Travis Baldree is now available in Hungary! The Hungarian edition is published by Fumax, as KOPONYÁK ÉS KÖNYVESBOLTOK, and was translated by Eszter Dobószéli. Here’s the synopsis…

Egy csésze habkönnyű fantasy mellé egy falat mézédes sütemény

A rendkívüli sikerű Legendás latték előtörténetében egy dicsőségre éhes orknak rá kell döbbennie, hogy az, amit leginkább hajszolunk, gyakran nem az, amire valóban szükségünk van.

Az ifjú zsoldos, Viv nem egészen így képzelte a katonalétet, amikor beállt Rackam Rétisasai közé.

Legalábbis azt semmiképp sem tervezte, hogy egy hatalmas nekromanta levadászása közben olyan szörnyű sérülést szenved, hogy egy gyógyító kezére adják a világ legunalmasabb kisvárosában, Borongóban, olyan messzire az izgalmaktól és társaitól, hogy már-már attól fél, soha nem jönnek vissza érte.

Mivel ütheti el idejét egy lenyomorodott ork harcos?

Álmában sem hitte volna, hogy a sors egy viharvert könyvesboltba vezeti – azt pedig főleg elképzelni sem tudta volna, hogy a mocskosszájú tulaj és az ódon kötetek milyen változások magját ültetik majd el a lelkében.

Minden nyugalom ellenére a kaland azonban nem kerüli el. Egy rejtélyes, szürke idegen, egy izgága gnóm, egy nem várt szerelem és egynél jóval több csontváz sokkal eseménydúsabbá teszi Borongót, mint Viv valaha hitte volna.

A New York Times-bestseller Travis Baldree a Legendás latték után újabb bájos hangulatú történettel kápráztatja el olvasóit.

Fumax also publishes Travis’s smash-hit, internationally-bestselling debut novel, LEGENDS & LATTES, in Hungary as LEGENDÁS LATTÉK.

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is published by Tor Books in the UK and North America. It was a #1 bestseller in North America, and also a bestseller in the UK. 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 few of the many great reviews the novel 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

‘What Baldree does he does well. His prose is direct and engaging without being simple, even if he does throw in a distractingly clever turn of phrase on occasion… Mostly, though, BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is the story equivalent of a warm blanket on a bleak day.’ — Locus

‘Prequels sometimes feel unnecessary and can even cheapen the original stories. But Baldree manages to add to Viv’s story in a way that feels both organic and vital, and this second book is even better than the first.’ — Washington Post

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is even more of a delight than its predecessor/sequel. Taking place two decades before LEGENDS & LATTES, Baldree’s second book is a meaty slice of Viv’s backstory, so fully realized that it can be read as a standalone…. Baldree’s two novels gain depth, offering a more powerful character arc for Viv. It’s poignant to see a time when her mercenary life was her identity, and get to know the inner fighter that prompts her to refuse to pay the local extortionist in LEGENDS & LATTES. Seeing Viv’s early life elevates her later commitment to leaving violence behind, revealing it as the transformation of a lifetime. If Baldree’s breakout hit was the story of Viv finding her people, then BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is the story of Viv becoming her own person. Engrossing, meaningful, and fluffy all at once, it is a charming afternoon read—perhaps alongside a cup of coffee.’ — Tor.com

German Edition of Travis Baldree’s BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST Out in May!


The German edition of Travis Baldree‘s highly-anticipated second novel, BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST, is due out May 16th! Published by DTV as BÜCHER & BARBAREN, and translated by Wolfgang Thon, here’s the synopsis…

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 …

BOOKSHOPS & BONEDUST is published in North America by Tor Books, and in the UK also by Tor Books; the novel is also available in Poland, published by Insignis. 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.

Here are just a few of the many great reviews the novel 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 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

Lavie Tidhar’s NEOM Available in Japan!


Lavie Tidhar‘s acclaimed novel NEOM is available in Japan! Translated by Ken Mogi (茂木健), and with a spectacular cover by Takeshi Oga (緒賀岳志), it is published by Tokyo Sogensha, as ロボットの夢の都市. Here’s the synopsis…

太陽系を巻き込んだ大戦争から数百年。宇宙への脱出を夢見るジャンク掘りの少年、それ自体がひとつの街のような移動隊商宿で旅をつづける少年、そして砂漠の巨大都市の片隅で古びた見慣れぬロボットと出会った女性。彼らの運命がひとつにより合わさるとき、かつて一夜にしてひとつの都市を滅ぼしたことのある戦闘ロボットが、長い眠りから目覚めて……

世界幻想文学大賞作家が贈る、どこか懐かしい未来の、ふしぎなSF物語。

The novel is published in English by Tachyon Publications. Here’s the English-language synopsis…

Today, Neom is a utopian dream — a megacity of the future yet to be built in the Saudi desert. In this deeply imaginative novel from the award-winning universe of Central Station, far-future Neom is already old. Sentient machines roam the desert searching for purpose, works of art can be more deadly than weapons, and the spark of a long-overdue revolution is in the wind. Only the rekindling of an impossible love affair may slow the inevitable sands of time.