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Tomes & Tea #2
A Pirate's Life for Tea
While searching for stolen dragon eggs, newly engaged couple Kianthe and Reyna find themselves smack-dab in the middle of a swashbuckling love story.
On one side is Serina, a failed farmer turned river pirate. Her booty? Wheat, grains, and the occasional jar of imported tea leaves. It's quite the embarrassment to Diarn Arlon, the powerful lord of the Nacean River, and he'll conscript anyone to bring her to justice. Especially Kianthe, the elemental mage who just crashed his party, and her somewhat-scary fiancée.
Begrudgingly, the couple joins forces with Bobbie, one of Arlon's constables--who happens to be Serina's childhood friend. Bobbie is determined to capture the pirate before anyone else, but it would be a lot easier if Serina didn't absolutely loathe her now.
As Kianthe and Reyna watch this relation-shipwreck from afar, it quickly becomes apparent that these disaster lesbians need all the help they can get. Luckily, matchmaking is Reyna's favorite past time. The dragon eggs may have to wait.
On one side is Serina, a failed farmer turned river pirate. Her booty? Wheat, grains, and the occasional jar of imported tea leaves. It's quite the embarrassment to Diarn Arlon, the powerful lord of the Nacean River, and he'll conscript anyone to bring her to justice. Especially Kianthe, the elemental mage who just crashed his party, and her somewhat-scary fiancée.
Begrudgingly, the couple joins forces with Bobbie, one of Arlon's constables--who happens to be Serina's childhood friend. Bobbie is determined to capture the pirate before anyone else, but it would be a lot easier if Serina didn't absolutely loathe her now.
As Kianthe and Reyna watch this relation-shipwreck from afar, it quickly becomes apparent that these disaster lesbians need all the help they can get. Luckily, matchmaking is Reyna's favorite past time. The dragon eggs may have to wait.
384 pages, Paperback
First published February 23, 2023
About the author
Rebecca Thorne
14 books2,420 followersRebecca Thorne is a USA Today, Indie, and Sunday Times Bestselling author, specializing in fantasy and sci-fi with romantic subplots.
She is a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, lives near Denver, Colorado, and uses her ADHD as a superpower to write multiple books a year. When she’s not writing (or avoiding writing), Rebecca can be found traveling the country as a flight attendant, hiking with her dogs and lovely wife, or basking in the sun like a lizard.
She is a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, lives near Denver, Colorado, and uses her ADHD as a superpower to write multiple books a year. When she’s not writing (or avoiding writing), Rebecca can be found traveling the country as a flight attendant, hiking with her dogs and lovely wife, or basking in the sun like a lizard.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,640 reviews
April 10, 2025
"To the people who gave me one-star reviews because the first book "had lesbians." I doubled the lesbians in this one. Just for you."
This is how you get me to read all of your books.
This is how you get me to read all of your books.
August 7, 2026
“To the people who gave me one-star reviews because the first book 'had lesbians.' I doubled the lesbians in this one. Just for you.”On the one hand, what a flipping mic-drop of quote.
On the other hand...that dedication at the beginning was kinda the best part of the book.
Let me backup a bit.
Following the events of the first book, Klanthe and Reyna have gotten their book-and-tea themed business off to a steady clip but in doing so, they had to bargain with the dragons to track down three missing eggs.
Thus, the couple decides to leave their business in the steady hands of the villagers in hopes of figuring out where the eggs were shipped to...which is how they arrived to the Nacean River area.
They meet a farmer-turned-pirate (Serina) and a constable (Bobbie) - locked in a not-so-deadly game of cat and mouse.
Of course, Klanthe and Reyna instantly ship Serina/Bobbie and do their absolute best to push them together as tensions mount regarding the missing dragon eggs, starving villagers, and unrestricted piracy...arrrrrrg!
Soooooooo...based on my summary above, I really thought I was going to like this book. The first book was very...very...low stakes when it came to any sort of plot. So surely adding in PIRATES and SECRETS and SHIPPING would liven things up?
Not really.
The energy level was just kinda stagnant for most of the book. I never felt any sort of real urgency because at the end of the day, there just never felt like there was any danger.
When one of your characters is the Mage of Ages (Klanthe) who is the most powerful mage in all existence and the other is the elite former queen's guard (Reyna), I just had a hard time believing that either of them would ever be in actual danger.
Another thing that made me kinda squint at the characters was that there's this BIG hullabaloo about catching the river pirates. Let me repeat that...RIVER. PIRATES. and somehow all of the constables just couldn't catch Serina?
Correct me if I'm wrong, but rivers are famously directional.
Yes, this was a particularly wide river according to the story...but I really failed to see why it would've taken so long to catch someone who could only go up or down a river.
Finally, the thing that really brought it down was the shipping. Reyna and Klanthe were SO convinced that Serina and Bobbie were perfect for each other. So much that they spent every spare moment trying to push the relationship along.
And honestly? I just didn't see it.
Both characters were friends for a long time, felt a bit wistful towards their carefree childhoods, but to me it seemed like they weren't interested in each other and verbally said so multiple times.
I can kinda get when someone outside the potential-couple can "see" the spark but if both members are vehemently saying that they do not want to be in a relationship, you should respect that.
Overall, it wasn't that great. It had a few redeeming moments but not enough to make me want to pick it up again.
April 19, 2024
Reyna and Kianthe learn of the pirate Serina, who is not seeking gold and treasure, but is taking food hoarded for profit by an unscrupulous official and distributing it to those who need it. They go on a quest to retrieve stolen dragon eggs, and meet a number of people including, Bobbie, Serina's childhood friend, and the Dreaded Pirate Driggs. Swashbuckling adventure follows, as does a spicy "one shot" at the end of the novel labeled "unsuitable for underage readers." I enjoy cozy fantasies thanks to Travis Baldree, and this book is an entertaining addition to the genre. I especially liked the dedication, "To the people who gave me one-star reviews because the first book 'had lesbians,' I doubled the lesbians in this one. Just for you." Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
August 11, 2024
3.5 Stars
This was such an enjoyable fantasy romance. Normally, I read dark and disturbing reads, but even I carve the occasional break with a cute read. This one fit the bill.
I have an exceptionally soft spots for pirate stories and this one delivered. The story is very character and relationship focus, which felt well developed. The stakes of this one were low, which I expected and so didn't mind.
If you are interested in a cozy queer pirate story, then I highly recommend this one. It is technically the second book in the series but I didn't have am issue picking it up here.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This was such an enjoyable fantasy romance. Normally, I read dark and disturbing reads, but even I carve the occasional break with a cute read. This one fit the bill.
I have an exceptionally soft spots for pirate stories and this one delivered. The story is very character and relationship focus, which felt well developed. The stakes of this one were low, which I expected and so didn't mind.
If you are interested in a cozy queer pirate story, then I highly recommend this one. It is technically the second book in the series but I didn't have am issue picking it up here.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
June 24, 2025
Cozy Sapphic Fantasy
☕️ Bookish Thoughts
Very sweet and cozy second book in the series! I feel like we got more worldbuilding in this one. It did lag a bit sometimes, but I still enjoyed it.
And the audiobook was just fantastic! I’m definitely continuing with the series.
☕️ Bookish Thoughts
Very sweet and cozy second book in the series! I feel like we got more worldbuilding in this one. It did lag a bit sometimes, but I still enjoyed it.
And the audiobook was just fantastic! I’m definitely continuing with the series.
October 8, 2024
Ah this was so much fun! It was so nice to be back with Kianthe and Reyna, who are still adorable, sassy and hilarious and I still love them.
I did miss the cosiness of their shop from the first book, the pirate adventure they ended up on was a lot of fun. A great introduction to some new characters as well which I really enjoyed. I'm really looking forward to seeing where the final book in this series will go and whether we will get the characters from this book in there or if it'll be some new characters.
Thank you to Pan Macmillan for sending me a proof of this book.
I did miss the cosiness of their shop from the first book, the pirate adventure they ended up on was a lot of fun. A great introduction to some new characters as well which I really enjoyed. I'm really looking forward to seeing where the final book in this series will go and whether we will get the characters from this book in there or if it'll be some new characters.
Thank you to Pan Macmillan for sending me a proof of this book.
February 27, 2023
"How about 'Seas Her Fortune'? Or 'The Pirate's Bountiful Booty.' Maybe 'Seas Likes It Rough.' Get it?"
Reyna began to wonder if her borrowed horse could outrun Kianthe's.
Then she recalled, with much regret, that Kianthe knew where she lived.
The mage was still going. "Something... something about firing cannons through your porthole. Oh! How about 'This Treasured Chest,' but the chest refers to-"
"Darling, I beg of you, please forget I asked."
Kianthe wrinkled her nose. "I thought these were gold. Pirate's gold! Get it?"
"I get it."
"You sound like you're dying."
"Only on the inside."
The humour in this book is great, terrible puns and all - and I found the whole thing a pretty awesome follow-up to Can't Spell Treason Without Tea.
This series is a cosy fantasy + stakes - the bad guys are usually pretty solidly bad, but the actual action itself melds with the cosiness of the rest surprisingly well. There's romance, which is on the sweeter end of the sweet/spicy scale, and an abundance of magical escapades.
I hope we're back in town for the next one - I love Tawney, and though there was good reason for it, the plot of this book takes place almost completely outside it. This is definitely one of my favourite cosy fantasies, and a series that deserves to be one of those defining this growingly-popular genre.
Reyna began to wonder if her borrowed horse could outrun Kianthe's.
Then she recalled, with much regret, that Kianthe knew where she lived.
The mage was still going. "Something... something about firing cannons through your porthole. Oh! How about 'This Treasured Chest,' but the chest refers to-"
"Darling, I beg of you, please forget I asked."
Kianthe wrinkled her nose. "I thought these were gold. Pirate's gold! Get it?"
"I get it."
"You sound like you're dying."
"Only on the inside."
The humour in this book is great, terrible puns and all - and I found the whole thing a pretty awesome follow-up to Can't Spell Treason Without Tea.
This series is a cosy fantasy + stakes - the bad guys are usually pretty solidly bad, but the actual action itself melds with the cosiness of the rest surprisingly well. There's romance, which is on the sweeter end of the sweet/spicy scale, and an abundance of magical escapades.
I hope we're back in town for the next one - I love Tawney, and though there was good reason for it, the plot of this book takes place almost completely outside it. This is definitely one of my favourite cosy fantasies, and a series that deserves to be one of those defining this growingly-popular genre.
September 16, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up
This was a fun fantasy romance and while I wouldn't call it cozy as a whole, it certainly has some cozy moments. We follow the couple from book 1 on their continued quest for the missing dragon eggs. Along the way they become entangled with a constable and a pirate who were childhood friends and secretly have feelings for each other. And yes, there are double the lesbians in this one! It's an entertaining book with escapades and some lovely quiet moments along the way. I would say I didn't enjoy it quite as much as book 1, but I'm also not partial to ship-board stories. The audio narration is the same as the first book and again, I don't love the choice of character voices. But otherwise it's fine. And at the end there is a very spicy one-shot short story with our main couple that was fun. I received an audio review copy of this book via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
This was a fun fantasy romance and while I wouldn't call it cozy as a whole, it certainly has some cozy moments. We follow the couple from book 1 on their continued quest for the missing dragon eggs. Along the way they become entangled with a constable and a pirate who were childhood friends and secretly have feelings for each other. And yes, there are double the lesbians in this one! It's an entertaining book with escapades and some lovely quiet moments along the way. I would say I didn't enjoy it quite as much as book 1, but I'm also not partial to ship-board stories. The audio narration is the same as the first book and again, I don't love the choice of character voices. But otherwise it's fine. And at the end there is a very spicy one-shot short story with our main couple that was fun. I received an audio review copy of this book via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
May 27, 2025
If you just want a bunch of spice read the short story at the end of this book. If you want some fun pirate action, the search for the dragon eggs, and whatnot then be sure to engage with the main story.
This is good enough for a cozy story. It’s not amazing, it’s lacking direction at times, and does a poor job of really following through on what I wanted it to (I really wanted to have more Bobbie overall!). But it’s cute, fun, and fairly low stakes. If you need a ‘break’ book from anything too dark, gory, intense, or scary then this is a good choice. And of course, lots of fun puns!
Honestly my fave part of Throne’s second instalment in this series is the dedication. She dedicates the book to all those who were upset about lesbians in her first book, and says she doubled them up because she could. It’s a great little screw you comment and I love that it sets the precedent that our characters are lesbians and they will not apologize for it!!!
I read A Pirate’s Life for Tea on a busy vacation so it was great that it was easy to pick-up but also put down. It didn’t really make me want to read or dying to find out what happened next; but it was good enough filler to read when I had a few moments. As always books have a time and place, and I think cozy fiction has a niche it fills. It will never be my favourite (likely) genre, but it’s a nice little break from my usual intense and/or complex reading choices. Know what you’re going into and enjoy it for what it is.
This is good enough for a cozy story. It’s not amazing, it’s lacking direction at times, and does a poor job of really following through on what I wanted it to (I really wanted to have more Bobbie overall!). But it’s cute, fun, and fairly low stakes. If you need a ‘break’ book from anything too dark, gory, intense, or scary then this is a good choice. And of course, lots of fun puns!
Honestly my fave part of Throne’s second instalment in this series is the dedication. She dedicates the book to all those who were upset about lesbians in her first book, and says she doubled them up because she could. It’s a great little screw you comment and I love that it sets the precedent that our characters are lesbians and they will not apologize for it!!!
I read A Pirate’s Life for Tea on a busy vacation so it was great that it was easy to pick-up but also put down. It didn’t really make me want to read or dying to find out what happened next; but it was good enough filler to read when I had a few moments. As always books have a time and place, and I think cozy fiction has a niche it fills. It will never be my favourite (likely) genre, but it’s a nice little break from my usual intense and/or complex reading choices. Know what you’re going into and enjoy it for what it is.
February 19, 2025
The epilogue was hot!! Reyna was such a tease! The game they played to spice up their love before their anniversary night was great. The audiobook was hot too.
This sequel was so much fun. Good humor. Got me smiling often. There were 4 point of views: Reyna, ex-royal guard, Kianthe, a powerful mage, Bobbie, a constable trying to capture her ex-best friend turned pirate, and Serina, a pirate who acted similar to Robinhood. This story has humor, action and adventures.
Reyna and Kianthe left home, their new home, to go on a mission. Kianthe had promised the dragons that she would find their stolen eggs in exchange for them to not burn down their new hometown. They came upon a constable and an explosion. They ended up part of the chase for the pirate. They caught the pirate and was on their way back to turn in the pirate when... Reyna craving adventure, had different plans..
In this story, Reyna got the adventures she seeks. Kianthe utilizes her true power of being a mage. There were love troubles, career troubles, and life troubles. Good advices along the way. I like Kianthe's love for books and Bobbie's crochet hobby.
This book can be read as a standalone because this story has a different adventure separate from book 1.
Thank you Bramble Romance and Librofm for the opportunity to read, listen, and review.
This sequel was so much fun. Good humor. Got me smiling often. There were 4 point of views: Reyna, ex-royal guard, Kianthe, a powerful mage, Bobbie, a constable trying to capture her ex-best friend turned pirate, and Serina, a pirate who acted similar to Robinhood. This story has humor, action and adventures.
Reyna and Kianthe left home, their new home, to go on a mission. Kianthe had promised the dragons that she would find their stolen eggs in exchange for them to not burn down their new hometown. They came upon a constable and an explosion. They ended up part of the chase for the pirate. They caught the pirate and was on their way back to turn in the pirate when... Reyna craving adventure, had different plans..
In this story, Reyna got the adventures she seeks. Kianthe utilizes her true power of being a mage. There were love troubles, career troubles, and life troubles. Good advices along the way. I like Kianthe's love for books and Bobbie's crochet hobby.
This book can be read as a standalone because this story has a different adventure separate from book 1.
Thank you Bramble Romance and Librofm for the opportunity to read, listen, and review.
May 25, 2025
double the lesbians AND a pirate adventure ?? what’s not to like 😌 loved this second installment and excited for the third one !
my only critiques would be i wish there were chapters from bobbie and serina’s pov bc although i enjoyed their romance i didn’t care much for them as i didn’t learn much about them compared to reyna and kianthe. i must say although i usually enjoy kianthe’s jokes they were a bit much this time and taking them out would not affect the book’s quality at all
my only critiques would be i wish there were chapters from bobbie and serina’s pov bc although i enjoyed their romance i didn’t care much for them as i didn’t learn much about them compared to reyna and kianthe. i must say although i usually enjoy kianthe’s jokes they were a bit much this time and taking them out would not affect the book’s quality at all
January 15, 2025
I think I’m good with cozy fantasy ? Jury is still out ?
October 1, 2024
A Pirate's Life for Tea is a cozy-adjacent adventure fantasy and is the second book in the Tomes and Tea series.
This sapphic story picks up where book 1 ended--with Reyna and Kianthe on the search for the dragon eggs but takes readers to a new setting: out to sea on a pirate ship. I already loved Reyna and Kianthe so much as main characters, but somehow fell in love with them both even more. I also really enjoyed Serina and Bobbie's storyline and hope to see them in the next book as well (or maybe a spin off?).
Overall, this series has my heart. Though the stakes are a bit higher than other cozy fantasies, I would still recommend this book to anyone looking to cozy up with a cup of tea and a fantasy adventure.
Thank you so much to Bramble and Rebecca Thorne for the gifted copy of this book. I can't wait for the next one!!
This sapphic story picks up where book 1 ended--with Reyna and Kianthe on the search for the dragon eggs but takes readers to a new setting: out to sea on a pirate ship. I already loved Reyna and Kianthe so much as main characters, but somehow fell in love with them both even more. I also really enjoyed Serina and Bobbie's storyline and hope to see them in the next book as well (or maybe a spin off?).
Overall, this series has my heart. Though the stakes are a bit higher than other cozy fantasies, I would still recommend this book to anyone looking to cozy up with a cup of tea and a fantasy adventure.
Thank you so much to Bramble and Rebecca Thorne for the gifted copy of this book. I can't wait for the next one!!
September 22, 2024
High seas shenanigans, piratical puns, and matchmaking schemes abound in this marvellously entertaining follow up to Rebecca Thorne’s sapphic cosy fantasy, Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea.
I adored the first book in this series, so was beyond thrilled for the to finally revisit my favourite bookstore/ teashop owners, Kianthe and Reyna. As they embark on an exciting new mission to track down the three stolen dragon eggs and return them to their rightful home.
Like the perfect Tea blend Thorne infuses the warm and cosy atmosphere of Legends & Lattes, with the hilariously endearing humour (and antics) of Our Flag Means Death—for a satisfyingly swashbuckling (and romantic) read that I won’t be forgetting any time soon!
Kianthe and Reyna were still a delight to explore (thanks in part to the character driven focus of the plot) and I loved seeing how far their relationship and dynamics have come since they first set foot in Tawney. Reyna really comes into her own, with a less weary demeanour, and far more confident outlook that I loved.
Kianthe, our pun-loving ball of elemental magic was fabulous too! Seeing her in action as the Arcandor, and the authority and power she wields was fascinating especially as well delve (very briefly) into her past and childhood insecurities surrounding her magic.
The supporting cast were incredible too, and filled with some new and very entertaining new faces. Including constable,Bobbie and her childhood bestie turned outlaw, Serina (who find themselves at the centre of Reyna and Kianthe’s matchmaking schemes.) We also get a cameo from Kianthe’s favourite pirate captain, The Dread Pirate Dreggs, whose fun loving nature really gave Kianthe competition for most loveably chaotic.
But of course, it was baby griffon, Ponder and her sassy father, Visk that really stole the show for me. I loved every scene they were in and CANNOT wait to see what other mischief Ponder gets up to in the next book (called Tea You at the Altar, which, if the UK release doesn’t change, will come out on my birthday)
Overall, a satisfyingly cosy, pirate filled adventure that has me already eager to get my hands on the next book.
Also, a huge thank you to Olivia and Pan Macmillan/ Tor Books for the finished copy.
I adored the first book in this series, so was beyond thrilled for the to finally revisit my favourite bookstore/ teashop owners, Kianthe and Reyna. As they embark on an exciting new mission to track down the three stolen dragon eggs and return them to their rightful home.
Like the perfect Tea blend Thorne infuses the warm and cosy atmosphere of Legends & Lattes, with the hilariously endearing humour (and antics) of Our Flag Means Death—for a satisfyingly swashbuckling (and romantic) read that I won’t be forgetting any time soon!
Kianthe and Reyna were still a delight to explore (thanks in part to the character driven focus of the plot) and I loved seeing how far their relationship and dynamics have come since they first set foot in Tawney. Reyna really comes into her own, with a less weary demeanour, and far more confident outlook that I loved.
Kianthe, our pun-loving ball of elemental magic was fabulous too! Seeing her in action as the Arcandor, and the authority and power she wields was fascinating especially as well delve (very briefly) into her past and childhood insecurities surrounding her magic.
The supporting cast were incredible too, and filled with some new and very entertaining new faces. Including constable,Bobbie and her childhood bestie turned outlaw, Serina (who find themselves at the centre of Reyna and Kianthe’s matchmaking schemes.) We also get a cameo from Kianthe’s favourite pirate captain, The Dread Pirate Dreggs, whose fun loving nature really gave Kianthe competition for most loveably chaotic.
But of course, it was baby griffon, Ponder and her sassy father, Visk that really stole the show for me. I loved every scene they were in and CANNOT wait to see what other mischief Ponder gets up to in the next book (called Tea You at the Altar, which, if the UK release doesn’t change, will come out on my birthday)
Overall, a satisfyingly cosy, pirate filled adventure that has me already eager to get my hands on the next book.
Also, a huge thank you to Olivia and Pan Macmillan/ Tor Books for the finished copy.
January 31, 2024
I felt so accomplished reading the first book, but I just find these books so very long and a little boring.
It's "cozy" so nothing major happens. There's no real conflict or high stakes. In a 400+ page book, there should be something to keep you hooked. You know everything is going to work out. If it was 100 or more pages shorter, I wouldn't complain. This is just too much.
Kianthe is also very annoying. She thinks everything she says is funny and it's not. I haven't read many romances and I'm hoping not all "banter" (something people want a lot of in romances) is like this. It's irritating. I work with a guy who thinks everything he says is hilarious and you just feel like punching him.
I also find the constant touching a little much. Again, I know it's a romance, but come on. Maybe if you let go of each other, you'd be more competent at what you're doing.
I love the cover and most of the story. I could get through a lot of it very quickly. It just hit me all of a sudden that I just don't care what happens to the characters or plot. I'm not very likely to pick it up again for a re-read either. The more I think about it, the more upset I get that I didn't enjoy it.
It's "cozy" so nothing major happens. There's no real conflict or high stakes. In a 400+ page book, there should be something to keep you hooked. You know everything is going to work out. If it was 100 or more pages shorter, I wouldn't complain. This is just too much.
Kianthe is also very annoying. She thinks everything she says is funny and it's not. I haven't read many romances and I'm hoping not all "banter" (something people want a lot of in romances) is like this. It's irritating. I work with a guy who thinks everything he says is hilarious and you just feel like punching him.
I also find the constant touching a little much. Again, I know it's a romance, but come on. Maybe if you let go of each other, you'd be more competent at what you're doing.
I love the cover and most of the story. I could get through a lot of it very quickly. It just hit me all of a sudden that I just don't care what happens to the characters or plot. I'm not very likely to pick it up again for a re-read either. The more I think about it, the more upset I get that I didn't enjoy it.
October 11, 2024
3.75/5
Another fun instalment of this cosy fantasy series! I adore the cosy fantasy subgenre, it's always so comforting to read. What I love about the Tomes & Tea books is that they always strike up the right balance of cosiness and action. And a good ol' fashioned pirate adventure never does anyone any harm!
I probably did enjoy Can't Spell Treason Without Tea, the first book, more as we really got to hone in on the two main characters and their pasts and their hopes for the future. My main gripe with this book was that because there were more focal characters added, we were spread a little thin ('like butter that has been scraped over too much bread' as Tolkien would say) and therefore didn't get as much character development from them as I'd hoped. I never got to know the new characters as well as I'd wished.
But I very much enjoy these stories for what they are, especially when I need a break from my beloved dark fantasies. I do love a cosy read and these books definitely deliver!
Thank you Tor for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Another fun instalment of this cosy fantasy series! I adore the cosy fantasy subgenre, it's always so comforting to read. What I love about the Tomes & Tea books is that they always strike up the right balance of cosiness and action. And a good ol' fashioned pirate adventure never does anyone any harm!
I probably did enjoy Can't Spell Treason Without Tea, the first book, more as we really got to hone in on the two main characters and their pasts and their hopes for the future. My main gripe with this book was that because there were more focal characters added, we were spread a little thin ('like butter that has been scraped over too much bread' as Tolkien would say) and therefore didn't get as much character development from them as I'd hoped. I never got to know the new characters as well as I'd wished.
But I very much enjoy these stories for what they are, especially when I need a break from my beloved dark fantasies. I do love a cosy read and these books definitely deliver!
Thank you Tor for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2024
A sequel that has even more lesbians AND one of them is a pirate? Sign me tf up!
This was at least as fun as the previous book, and it proved to be such a quick, entertaining read for me. I love how this is very much cosy fantasy but there are still things going on, it's never boring or too slow. Serina and Bobbie are ADORABLE together from the start, even their "we hate each other" phase was adorable.
If I had to give one criticism, it's that I would have liked to see more domestic scenes between our main characters, Kianthe and Reyna.
This was at least as fun as the previous book, and it proved to be such a quick, entertaining read for me. I love how this is very much cosy fantasy but there are still things going on, it's never boring or too slow. Serina and Bobbie are ADORABLE together from the start, even their "we hate each other" phase was adorable.
If I had to give one criticism, it's that I would have liked to see more domestic scenes between our main characters, Kianthe and Reyna.
November 11, 2024
Dnf p 188
This lost the cozy factor and it felt like it was trying too hard.
Reyna slashing the constable who were just trying to defend their ship was the last straw for me.
1. I thought Reyna is supposed to be the good guy. Not some morally gray person.
2. The constables aren't like corrupt citizens. They're legit just people trying to make a living.
So now that she's bored and needs to find an adventure she's going to be a pirate. 🙄🙄
This lost the cozy factor and it felt like it was trying too hard.
Reyna slashing the constable who were just trying to defend their ship was the last straw for me.
1. I thought Reyna is supposed to be the good guy. Not some morally gray person.
2. The constables aren't like corrupt citizens. They're legit just people trying to make a living.
So now that she's bored and needs to find an adventure she's going to be a pirate. 🙄🙄
February 3, 2025
3 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2024/12/24/...
Why are cozy romantasies a mood read for me? There’s just something about their heartwarming stories with their low stakes. They’re a nice break from the genres with darker and heavier themes that I generally prefer, and they are the perfect escape when the moment is right. Happily, I had the second book of Rebecca Thorne’s Tomes and Tea series on hand. I dove back into the world with A Pirate’s Life for Tea, looking forward to catching up with Reyna, Kianthe, and the gang.
The story picks up as our newly engaged couple find themselves drawn into a swashbuckling adventure while helping their constable friend Bobbie on the case of some stolen dragon eggs. Their quest takes an unexpected turn, however, when their investigation leads them to encounter Serina, a former farm girl turned river pirate. Lately she has been giving the law enforcers of Arlon a lot of trouble, carrying out raids up and down the banks, stealing food to give to the poor.
But then, plot twist! Turns out Bobbie and Serina have a history. They were childhood friends, and maybe something more. But now one has been tasked with apprehending the other and putting her behind bars. As the hunt intensifies, things for Serina go from bad to worse as her escapades earn her the ire of a corrupt lord who is using his influence to pressure our protagonists into helping him capture her—and he’s not likely to give Serina the benefit of the doubt if he gets to her first.
If you enjoyed the first book, there’s a good chance you’ll like this sequel. A Pirate’s Life for Tea continues capturing the quirky charm of the characters as well as the cozy laid-back atmosphere of the series, packing the plot with the usual hijinks and shenanigans that ensue, but this time with a bit of that high seas flair. Sweet romance is in the air too, and not just between our lovely duo Reyna and Kianthe. Amidst the ever-present danger of Arlon’s forces and the mystery of the missing dragon eggs, they somehow also manage to find time to play matchmakers for Bobbie and Serina.
As you can probably tell, the actual conflicts in this book are thin and the story lacks the weight of a truly gripping adventure. Much of the entire plot feels like an excuse for a girls’ day out, having our characters playact at being adventurers when they are, in fact, very bad at their jobs. Bobbie’s investigation skills are a joke, for instance, and Serina is a truly terrible pirate. Reyna and Kianthe seem to delight more in their gossip and meddling in the romantic lives of their friends rather than, ya know, getting an actual mystery solved.
You just get a sense that these are not serious people, but perhaps that’s the point. It’s just a group of friends enjoying life, enjoying love. Like I said, the series leans heavily into the light-hearted and chill low-stakes vibes. Another member of their ragtag crew may get her chance at romance, and even with all that’s going on, there’s always time for a tea break.
Ironically, in the end, where the book fell short for me was in delivering what I had expected the most—more Kianthe and Reyna. While they’re still as sweet and supportive as ever, there’s very little development in their relationship dynamic here. Instead, the spotlight shifts to other characters, which might be satisfying to some readers but left me feeling underwhelmed. Given how central their love story was in the first book and all they went through to be together, it would have been nice to get a more substantial sequel to remind us why we’re pulling for them.
All told, A Pirate’s Life for Tea is a solid continuation of the series for fans who loved Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea, even if it didn’t quite recapture the full magic of its predecessor for me. That said, it does a good job keeping the same warm, feel-good vibes, and the camaraderie among the characters. Still, it hit the spot and that’s what matters.
Why are cozy romantasies a mood read for me? There’s just something about their heartwarming stories with their low stakes. They’re a nice break from the genres with darker and heavier themes that I generally prefer, and they are the perfect escape when the moment is right. Happily, I had the second book of Rebecca Thorne’s Tomes and Tea series on hand. I dove back into the world with A Pirate’s Life for Tea, looking forward to catching up with Reyna, Kianthe, and the gang.
The story picks up as our newly engaged couple find themselves drawn into a swashbuckling adventure while helping their constable friend Bobbie on the case of some stolen dragon eggs. Their quest takes an unexpected turn, however, when their investigation leads them to encounter Serina, a former farm girl turned river pirate. Lately she has been giving the law enforcers of Arlon a lot of trouble, carrying out raids up and down the banks, stealing food to give to the poor.
But then, plot twist! Turns out Bobbie and Serina have a history. They were childhood friends, and maybe something more. But now one has been tasked with apprehending the other and putting her behind bars. As the hunt intensifies, things for Serina go from bad to worse as her escapades earn her the ire of a corrupt lord who is using his influence to pressure our protagonists into helping him capture her—and he’s not likely to give Serina the benefit of the doubt if he gets to her first.
If you enjoyed the first book, there’s a good chance you’ll like this sequel. A Pirate’s Life for Tea continues capturing the quirky charm of the characters as well as the cozy laid-back atmosphere of the series, packing the plot with the usual hijinks and shenanigans that ensue, but this time with a bit of that high seas flair. Sweet romance is in the air too, and not just between our lovely duo Reyna and Kianthe. Amidst the ever-present danger of Arlon’s forces and the mystery of the missing dragon eggs, they somehow also manage to find time to play matchmakers for Bobbie and Serina.
As you can probably tell, the actual conflicts in this book are thin and the story lacks the weight of a truly gripping adventure. Much of the entire plot feels like an excuse for a girls’ day out, having our characters playact at being adventurers when they are, in fact, very bad at their jobs. Bobbie’s investigation skills are a joke, for instance, and Serina is a truly terrible pirate. Reyna and Kianthe seem to delight more in their gossip and meddling in the romantic lives of their friends rather than, ya know, getting an actual mystery solved.
You just get a sense that these are not serious people, but perhaps that’s the point. It’s just a group of friends enjoying life, enjoying love. Like I said, the series leans heavily into the light-hearted and chill low-stakes vibes. Another member of their ragtag crew may get her chance at romance, and even with all that’s going on, there’s always time for a tea break.
Ironically, in the end, where the book fell short for me was in delivering what I had expected the most—more Kianthe and Reyna. While they’re still as sweet and supportive as ever, there’s very little development in their relationship dynamic here. Instead, the spotlight shifts to other characters, which might be satisfying to some readers but left me feeling underwhelmed. Given how central their love story was in the first book and all they went through to be together, it would have been nice to get a more substantial sequel to remind us why we’re pulling for them.
All told, A Pirate’s Life for Tea is a solid continuation of the series for fans who loved Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea, even if it didn’t quite recapture the full magic of its predecessor for me. That said, it does a good job keeping the same warm, feel-good vibes, and the camaraderie among the characters. Still, it hit the spot and that’s what matters.
March 31, 2023
A sequel to Can't Spell Treason Without Tea.
Kianthe and Reyna are back! Sassy and full of puns as ever before, in love as ever - but out on an adventure, away from home.
I love the little quirks the author gives each character, Kianthe's love for double entendre and wordplay is always amusing to me, and Reyna enjoying the simple little things, while still maintaining her strength and power as a former Queensguard.
We meet two new players in Bobbie and Serina. Star-crossed, or should we say 'river crossed' friends to enemies to lovers. Bobbie is a constable, trying to do the right thing by the law and morals she believes in, but we soon realize the person making the law in this area is fairly selfish and corrupt. Enter Serina, a pirating Robin Hood, stealing food from the rich, to give to the poor. The women are at odds, yet still clearly have a connection from their past and a possible future.
My one complaint was I had wished for insights into this dynamic that came from the characters themselves. The entire story is told from the viewpoints of Reyna and Kianthe, and I felt like that caused a disconnect toward these two new characters, and their entire situation. I just wanted more there.
There's a lot of action in this installment, and continued quips and witticism as always, causing mostly goofy smiles for me. I loved the hobby that Bobbie had of crocheting when stressed and having loads of projects to give away, that often weren't entirely perfect, but well loved anyway.
These little idiosyncrasies are charming and amusing to me. Overall these are feel-good reads, with good action, adventure and fun characters with morals who care about justice.
Kianthe and Reyna are back! Sassy and full of puns as ever before, in love as ever - but out on an adventure, away from home.
I love the little quirks the author gives each character, Kianthe's love for double entendre and wordplay is always amusing to me, and Reyna enjoying the simple little things, while still maintaining her strength and power as a former Queensguard.
We meet two new players in Bobbie and Serina. Star-crossed, or should we say 'river crossed' friends to enemies to lovers. Bobbie is a constable, trying to do the right thing by the law and morals she believes in, but we soon realize the person making the law in this area is fairly selfish and corrupt. Enter Serina, a pirating Robin Hood, stealing food from the rich, to give to the poor. The women are at odds, yet still clearly have a connection from their past and a possible future.
My one complaint was I had wished for insights into this dynamic that came from the characters themselves. The entire story is told from the viewpoints of Reyna and Kianthe, and I felt like that caused a disconnect toward these two new characters, and their entire situation. I just wanted more there.
There's a lot of action in this installment, and continued quips and witticism as always, causing mostly goofy smiles for me. I loved the hobby that Bobbie had of crocheting when stressed and having loads of projects to give away, that often weren't entirely perfect, but well loved anyway.
These little idiosyncrasies are charming and amusing to me. Overall these are feel-good reads, with good action, adventure and fun characters with morals who care about justice.
Did Not Finish
March 14, 2025DNF - page 49 (13%)
(Mar 13, 2025)
I received an ARC of this book for free via Goodreads giveaway. This has not impacted my final rating.
I don't know if it's the writing or the fact that cozy books are clearly nooooot for me, but I just... can't.
(Mar 13, 2025)
I received an ARC of this book for free via Goodreads giveaway. This has not impacted my final rating.
I don't know if it's the writing or the fact that cozy books are clearly nooooot for me, but I just... can't.
February 21, 2026
Manchmal sollte man wirklich über die Definition von cozy fantasy nachdenken.
Während Band 1 noch ein bisschen mehr "build a peaceful life" war, ist das hier ein klassisches Abenteuer. Es gibt eine ziemlich dringende Quest aus Band 1, die Kianthe unbedingt erfüllen muss und die potentiell Disaster oder Krieg mit sich bringen kann, wenn sie das nicht schafft. Es gibt einen Bösewicht und es gibt Piraten! Es gibt Kämpfe, es gibt Einbrüche, es gibt Plünderungen, Nahtoderfahrungen, gefährliche alchemistische Magie, und so einige Turbulenzen, durch die Reyna und Kianthe auf Reisen durch Shepara überstehen müssen - wie also nennt sich das Buch cozy fantasy?
Und warum habe ich auch dieses wohlige, nicht so gefährliche Gefühl beim Lesen verspürt, dass ich sonst mit cozy fantasy verbinde?
Es liegt wohl daran, dass die beiden hier noch gefestigter als Paar sind denn schon in Band 1. Das ist kein meet-cute, sondern zwei erwachsene Frauen, die wissen, wer sie sind und zu ihrer Liebe stehen. Und als Leserin weiß man die ganze Zeit, dass beiden auch nichts passieren wird - keine wird zweifeln und die andere verlassen, keine wird sterben und es ein dramatisches hurt-comfort Buch ... stattdessen sind die Bösen recht klassisch und es gibt Gerechtigkeit, ein bisschen märchenhaft, auf jeden Fall aber keine dunklen Abgründe, wie sie sonst manchmal in Piraten- und Fantasygeschichten erwähnt wird.
Deshalb lese ich die Reihe sehr gern, wobei ich ein bisschen befürchte, dass es mit einem heterosexuellen Paar als Protagonisten nicht so harmonisch wäre. Ich liebe Reyna und Kianthe einfach zusammen.
Einziger Minuspunkt hier noch ein Bonuskapitel mit Spice-Szene, die ich gähnend langweilig fand. Passiert mir auch nicht so oft, da ich spice in Büchern, gerade zwischen zwei Frauen, ganz gern lese, aber irgendwie war es hier am Ende und dann auch noch angekündigt als "spin-off ohne Relevanz für den Plot" mir einfach zu fad. Sorry, aber entweder es hat auch was mit den Charakteren und der Handlung zu tun, wo genug Spice Platz fände, oder ... lass es, I guess? Las sich irgendwie wie eine Fanfic zur Story.
Während Band 1 noch ein bisschen mehr "build a peaceful life" war, ist das hier ein klassisches Abenteuer. Es gibt eine ziemlich dringende Quest aus Band 1, die Kianthe unbedingt erfüllen muss und die potentiell Disaster oder Krieg mit sich bringen kann, wenn sie das nicht schafft. Es gibt einen Bösewicht und es gibt Piraten! Es gibt Kämpfe, es gibt Einbrüche, es gibt Plünderungen, Nahtoderfahrungen, gefährliche alchemistische Magie, und so einige Turbulenzen, durch die Reyna und Kianthe auf Reisen durch Shepara überstehen müssen - wie also nennt sich das Buch cozy fantasy?
Und warum habe ich auch dieses wohlige, nicht so gefährliche Gefühl beim Lesen verspürt, dass ich sonst mit cozy fantasy verbinde?
Es liegt wohl daran, dass die beiden hier noch gefestigter als Paar sind denn schon in Band 1. Das ist kein meet-cute, sondern zwei erwachsene Frauen, die wissen, wer sie sind und zu ihrer Liebe stehen. Und als Leserin weiß man die ganze Zeit, dass beiden auch nichts passieren wird - keine wird zweifeln und die andere verlassen, keine wird sterben und es ein dramatisches hurt-comfort Buch ... stattdessen sind die Bösen recht klassisch und es gibt Gerechtigkeit, ein bisschen märchenhaft, auf jeden Fall aber keine dunklen Abgründe, wie sie sonst manchmal in Piraten- und Fantasygeschichten erwähnt wird.
Deshalb lese ich die Reihe sehr gern, wobei ich ein bisschen befürchte, dass es mit einem heterosexuellen Paar als Protagonisten nicht so harmonisch wäre. Ich liebe Reyna und Kianthe einfach zusammen.
Einziger Minuspunkt hier noch ein Bonuskapitel mit Spice-Szene, die ich gähnend langweilig fand. Passiert mir auch nicht so oft, da ich spice in Büchern, gerade zwischen zwei Frauen, ganz gern lese, aber irgendwie war es hier am Ende und dann auch noch angekündigt als "spin-off ohne Relevanz für den Plot" mir einfach zu fad. Sorry, aber entweder es hat auch was mit den Charakteren und der Handlung zu tun, wo genug Spice Platz fände, oder ... lass es, I guess? Las sich irgendwie wie eine Fanfic zur Story.
March 11, 2026
Kianthe and Reyna are back! I'm really enjoying this series.
On the path of the dragon eggs, our intrepid pair encounter a nobleman, whose shipping records may aid in their quest. Only, he has a pirate problem. A certain female is stealing food before it can reach his storehouses and giving it to the poor. And the constable in charge of bringing her to justice seems to have her own history and agenda with this pirate … Where Kianthe and Reyna represent the Voice of Reason and offer relationship advice, what could possibly go wrong?
As with the first book, this was a delight! I love the characters, the banter, the action, the hijinks … And I love the Dedication page: “To the people who gave me one-star reviews because the first book ‘had lesbians.’ I doubled the lesbians in this one. Just for you.“ Rebecca Thorne, I salute you!
Although this is the second book in the series, it can stand on its own pretty well. Yes, you'll miss some character introductions, and a few surprises will be spoiled, but that's it. If you like this book, you're going to want to read it anyway.
It also has a decent ending. There's a one-chapter teaser for the next book. But nothing major is left unfinished in this one.
There's also a short tale, “The Game,” which is sizzling hot and definitely not for minors. Reading it caused all of the snow to melt for miles around. My wife would argue that's just Spring arriving, but I know which theory sounds more plausible to me.
A Pirate's Life for Tea is every bit as delightful and cozy as Can't Spell Treason Without Tea. Highly recommended!
On the path of the dragon eggs, our intrepid pair encounter a nobleman, whose shipping records may aid in their quest. Only, he has a pirate problem. A certain female is stealing food before it can reach his storehouses and giving it to the poor. And the constable in charge of bringing her to justice seems to have her own history and agenda with this pirate … Where Kianthe and Reyna represent the Voice of Reason and offer relationship advice, what could possibly go wrong?
As with the first book, this was a delight! I love the characters, the banter, the action, the hijinks … And I love the Dedication page: “To the people who gave me one-star reviews because the first book ‘had lesbians.’ I doubled the lesbians in this one. Just for you.“ Rebecca Thorne, I salute you!
Although this is the second book in the series, it can stand on its own pretty well. Yes, you'll miss some character introductions, and a few surprises will be spoiled, but that's it. If you like this book, you're going to want to read it anyway.
It also has a decent ending. There's a one-chapter teaser for the next book. But nothing major is left unfinished in this one.
There's also a short tale, “The Game,” which is sizzling hot and definitely not for minors. Reading it caused all of the snow to melt for miles around. My wife would argue that's just Spring arriving, but I know which theory sounds more plausible to me.
A Pirate's Life for Tea is every bit as delightful and cozy as Can't Spell Treason Without Tea. Highly recommended!
January 29, 2026
Pirates? Check
Puns and cozy chaos? Check
SAPPHIC Pirates? Check and check
I mean honestly what else could you want? This second installment somehow made me love this series even more. Reyna and Kianthe continue to be adorable and hilarious. We get to see few friends from book 1 while introducing a whole slew of new characters, many of whom were so delightful and hoping return in the subsequent books.
Did I also mention theres an adorable baby Griffon 🥹🥹
So excited to continue on with this series and pick up more books by Thorne
Puns and cozy chaos? Check
SAPPHIC Pirates? Check and check
I mean honestly what else could you want? This second installment somehow made me love this series even more. Reyna and Kianthe continue to be adorable and hilarious. We get to see few friends from book 1 while introducing a whole slew of new characters, many of whom were so delightful and hoping return in the subsequent books.
Did I also mention theres an adorable baby Griffon 🥹🥹
So excited to continue on with this series and pick up more books by Thorne
January 13, 2025
Cozy fantasy, lesbians, AND pirates??? 20/10, love love love this series and these characters. Absolutely cannot wait for the next one to come out 😭
July 21, 2026
An enjoyable book #2 in this series. We follow Reyna and Kianthe as they continue the search for the stolen dragon eggs. They find themselves asked to help take care of a pirate stealing food. I like seeing all the relationships evolve. I listened to the audiobook and I recommend it. It's a delightful story to listen to.
August 27, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
**thank you to Tor/Bramble for the gifted copy**
**thank you to Tor/Bramble for the gifted copy**
November 29, 2024
4.75* This series and its characters have wholly won over my heart. It’s silly and cosy and adorable and heaps of fun and I adore it. Book three can’t come soon enough.
June 20, 2025
I definitely loved the first one more, but still such a cute and fun book. I don’t think pirate stories are necessarily for me and Serina was kinda annoying sometimes, but I still really enjoyed it and can’t wait for the next!
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