On paper, Legends and Lattes is an easy book to snuggle into. The stakes never feel too high, but are real enough to give a lax tale a bit of engaging conflict. The main characters are sweet, personable figures, even the more cantankerous ones, so, all in all, the books just radiates positive vibes. For me, though, I never felt like I could settle into it. Now this is a totally me feeling. It could be that I read this at the wrong time when my frantic little mind needed something a little more stimulating. The fact that I had to read it in less than three days since I had to return it to the library also did not help. It's definitely a book you have to be in the right mind/mood for, as it takes a deeper focus on interpersonal relationships rather than a grand quest or narrative.

And really, I love the more character-driven aspect, especially in fantasy. In this genre, large scale plots and brutal character development is the norm, so it's nice to see something more laid back, more personal. The found family trope is always a top tier inclusion and it works so well here. Our main cast is full of characters that defy the typical fantasy expectations: an ex-adventurer orc that's looking just to settle down into an easy life, a succubus that's more interested in her studies and art than more, ah, physical hobbies, a shy rat folk that bakes heavenly pastries like it's nothing. They're not exactly outcasts, just people who live a little differently than one would expect. 

I think I could have used a little bit more of the romance. Maybe a bit earlier or maybe a few more scenes of them bonding, just to add a little more sweetness to the story. The plot settles in a sort of cyclical pace at times, so a little more sprinklings of it may have given it a bit more variety. 

If you're looking for a more laid back, fantastical yet down to earth story, this one may just be the blueprint.