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Beers and Beards #2
A Brewtiful Life: A Cozy Fantasy
Book 2 of a Cozy Fantasy Series filled with love, laughter, epic fantasy, and a little melancholy. Beers & Beards balances epic fantasy & slice-of-life with charm aplenty and a charisma score high enough to make a bard blush. It doesn't matter if you like beer or not, this is set to fill your need for comforting stories.
About the series: Join Pete as he establishes a tavern from the ground up after finding himself in a new world, leveling up his skills in Brewing, Shopcraft, and much more as he serves eccentric patrons of all shapes and sizes. This Cozy Fantasy does feature some monster fights and injuries. No elves or harems allowed.
About the series: Join Pete as he establishes a tavern from the ground up after finding himself in a new world, leveling up his skills in Brewing, Shopcraft, and much more as he serves eccentric patrons of all shapes and sizes. This Cozy Fantasy does feature some monster fights and injuries. No elves or harems allowed.
522 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2024
84 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 5, 2025
This is a Tongue in Check Series, with plenty of Bad puns, interesting characters, and wacky situations. If life has been to serious lately and you need some humor to off set it, give this Series a try. Waiting for book three to come out on Audible. Narration is fun too, the various characters voices and the entire storyline.
July 3, 2025
"You were busy"
"I would've come for that!!!"
"Wasn't that what you were doing with Balin?"
I thought the first book had me laughing... this one brought out the kettle laugh 🤣, definitely a little cheekier than the last. This series is just fantastic, the character development has been amazing, the progressive plot build-up and oh my the recipes sound divine!! Have saved them to try them out 👨🍳
Can't wait to see what the grumble gets up to next!
"I would've come for that!!!"
"Wasn't that what you were doing with Balin?"
I thought the first book had me laughing... this one brought out the kettle laugh 🤣, definitely a little cheekier than the last. This series is just fantastic, the character development has been amazing, the progressive plot build-up and oh my the recipes sound divine!! Have saved them to try them out 👨🍳
Can't wait to see what the grumble gets up to next!
April 6, 2024
Just as good as the first!
What a wonderful sequel to the first book. It was like a fun ride at the carnival with lots of ups and downs. Lots of fighting, without lots of blood. Most of the fighting was bear to beer.
What a wonderful sequel to the first book. It was like a fun ride at the carnival with lots of ups and downs. Lots of fighting, without lots of blood. Most of the fighting was bear to beer.
April 7, 2024
One of the best cozy LitRPG ever.
Recap: They have to rejoin the guild and for that they partnered up with Copper pot to start up a gnomeish brewery. Berry is an otherworlder as well, and they join team. Pete sponsors her. Pete wins the competition and gets to go to Kinshasa.
Recap: They have to rejoin the guild and for that they partnered up with Copper pot to start up a gnomeish brewery. Berry is an otherworlder as well, and they join team. Pete sponsors her. Pete wins the competition and gets to go to Kinshasa.
April 5, 2024
I found Brewful Life was just as fun as the first book. With even more character and world building and this time Pete has to get the brewery back into the good gracious of the Brewers Guild if he's to take brewing to the next level, he's already done a lot with his tools and knowledge. By doing just a few simple things, no brainers really, like cleaning up the brewing room to deter mold growth and spoilage and also adding carbonation into the draft, then bottling it for a longer shelf life. But there's still so much more that can be done, like for instance the flavor!
It's only with the the backing of the guild that Pete's brewery can enter any contest and of course winning! Which will give them notoriety they need to sweep the Continent by force and improve the beer industry! But I get ahead of myself, as I expected the next book will tell us more!
Don't forget the cozy has recipes, only a few but the all of 'em have beer as the key ingredient for the flavoring... And wow Christian J Gilliland is sublime!
It's only with the the backing of the guild that Pete's brewery can enter any contest and of course winning! Which will give them notoriety they need to sweep the Continent by force and improve the beer industry! But I get ahead of myself, as I expected the next book will tell us more!
Don't forget the cozy has recipes, only a few but the all of 'em have beer as the key ingredient for the flavoring... And wow Christian J Gilliland is sublime!
May 22, 2024
fun
After his win in the last book, Pete begins getting ready for the octa-millennial brewing contest where the winner will get a free brewery in the capital. In preparation for this, Pete and his friends have to get back into the Brewers guild and come up with some new brews. To do this, Pete is hunting new ingredients and to expand his customer base. He makes a deal with a god‘s other chosen, and finds a way to bring beer to the gnomes. (and incidentally learns that dwarves are gluten intolerant.) Meanwhile, he is also dealing with corporate espionage and an assassination attempt. He manages to bring vengeance on the person who sent, the assassins. He wins the contest and creates many more new brews. He’s now on his way to the capital.
This is a wonderful continuation of the series. It is a linked standalone with an internal and an overarching plot and great world building. The pacing is quick and steady, the narration draws you in, and the jokes are wonderful. Please enjoy.
After his win in the last book, Pete begins getting ready for the octa-millennial brewing contest where the winner will get a free brewery in the capital. In preparation for this, Pete and his friends have to get back into the Brewers guild and come up with some new brews. To do this, Pete is hunting new ingredients and to expand his customer base. He makes a deal with a god‘s other chosen, and finds a way to bring beer to the gnomes. (and incidentally learns that dwarves are gluten intolerant.) Meanwhile, he is also dealing with corporate espionage and an assassination attempt. He manages to bring vengeance on the person who sent, the assassins. He wins the contest and creates many more new brews. He’s now on his way to the capital.
This is a wonderful continuation of the series. It is a linked standalone with an internal and an overarching plot and great world building. The pacing is quick and steady, the narration draws you in, and the jokes are wonderful. Please enjoy.
September 13, 2025
So, while I have hardly any expectations except for a lot of beer, some partying, more beer, and some artisan dwarvish beer competitions, I have to admit that I'm quite satisfied with what I got.
After all, it's dwarves and beer, no huge quests or OP opponents, just the desire to show off l33t crafting skills and watch the hairy people get sloshed.
Fun. Simple. And, I have to admit... happy.
This is a good thing.
Personal note:
If anyone reading my reviews is be interested in reading my SF (Very hard SF, mind you), I'm open to requests.
Just direct message me in goodreads or email me on my site. I'd love to get some eyes on my novels.
Arctunn.com
After all, it's dwarves and beer, no huge quests or OP opponents, just the desire to show off l33t crafting skills and watch the hairy people get sloshed.
Fun. Simple. And, I have to admit... happy.
This is a good thing.
Personal note:
If anyone reading my reviews is be interested in reading my SF (Very hard SF, mind you), I'm open to requests.
Just direct message me in goodreads or email me on my site. I'd love to get some eyes on my novels.
Arctunn.com
April 2, 2024
The first book was a struggle for me but I had hope that this would be better. I was wrong.
I liked some aspects like the cooking competition and expanding the market of beer.
That said the book once again has one of my biggest pet peeves.
Infodumping. There’s so much of it, the MC is told multiple times “no monologues”. The author is aware of the issue and I don’t understand why it’s not been fixed.
It eventually became a slog that I couldn’t get through.
Also why does Peter feel the need to just tell people he got isekaid? That’s like breaking Fight Club rules.
I liked some aspects like the cooking competition and expanding the market of beer.
That said the book once again has one of my biggest pet peeves.
Infodumping. There’s so much of it, the MC is told multiple times “no monologues”. The author is aware of the issue and I don’t understand why it’s not been fixed.
It eventually became a slog that I couldn’t get through.
Also why does Peter feel the need to just tell people he got isekaid? That’s like breaking Fight Club rules.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2024
Noch einmal!
What a fun book! Not much conflict, but you can tell that the drama is building. Secondary characters are becoming richer and more defined. I just worry that all the tension and development carry over from this book to the next. And also looking forward to when Pete starts to finally come into contact with the other Chosen.
Cheers! Read every day and read for fun!
What a fun book! Not much conflict, but you can tell that the drama is building. Secondary characters are becoming richer and more defined. I just worry that all the tension and development carry over from this book to the next. And also looking forward to when Pete starts to finally come into contact with the other Chosen.
Cheers! Read every day and read for fun!
June 20, 2024
Please add a cast of characters
It would be super helpful to have a cast of characters in the back. There are several characters that I had to figure out who they were again and I have no idea where Esmeralda was in the first book but she was clearly there. Overall, a very good book with a smooth read. I don’t tend to read books over 500 pages because they just drag on, but this one does not.
It would be super helpful to have a cast of characters in the back. There are several characters that I had to figure out who they were again and I have no idea where Esmeralda was in the first book but she was clearly there. Overall, a very good book with a smooth read. I don’t tend to read books over 500 pages because they just drag on, but this one does not.
October 1, 2024
Solid continuation of the story with udderly funny jokes
The story continues with pun-ishing competitions, jokes that are fully groan, and brewtiful characters. So much going on in so many threads the author wraps it all together with otherworldly skill. I get slightly pratchettesque vibes from the characters which is no bad thing. This book moves the story along at a good clip-clop and sets up book 3 perfectly. Can't wait...
The story continues with pun-ishing competitions, jokes that are fully groan, and brewtiful characters. So much going on in so many threads the author wraps it all together with otherworldly skill. I get slightly pratchettesque vibes from the characters which is no bad thing. This book moves the story along at a good clip-clop and sets up book 3 perfectly. Can't wait...
August 27, 2024
A year has passed and Pete has settled down at the Thirsty Goat as a brewer. Now, it's time to take it to the next level - bringing his brews to the world at large, although it is still illegal for him to call it a brew, and the brewer's guild is out to get him, but maybe that will all change at the COMPETITION.
May 3, 2025
So Good
I think this one was better than the first. Im loving the gaggle of weirdos that's forming all around Pete and the Thirsty Goat family now. All the hijinks, drama, issues, and beer in this book made it an awesome read. I just can't figure out what's going on with all the Chosen and the Gods yet.
I think this one was better than the first. Im loving the gaggle of weirdos that's forming all around Pete and the Thirsty Goat family now. All the hijinks, drama, issues, and beer in this book made it an awesome read. I just can't figure out what's going on with all the Chosen and the Gods yet.
April 10, 2024
So much fun
This series is the funnest thing I have read in a long time. Read it you will be glad you did. If you like beer at all you will love it even more. I only request a a good Hefeweizen with an orange for the next one.
This series is the funnest thing I have read in a long time. Read it you will be glad you did. If you like beer at all you will love it even more. I only request a a good Hefeweizen with an orange for the next one.
June 3, 2024
Awesome!
I really loved reading this book. It was a total blast from beginning to end. It was funny and entertaining. The story and characters were incredibly interesting and engaging. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next. This book is definitely worth checking out.
I really loved reading this book. It was a total blast from beginning to end. It was funny and entertaining. The story and characters were incredibly interesting and engaging. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next. This book is definitely worth checking out.
January 6, 2025
A Brewtiful Life
Peter died as a successful brewer here on Earth and woke up as a dwarf in a mine. He was excited until he found that dwarven beer is absolutely horrible!This began his career to save beer! It’s been a year in and he’s making good progress. Now he has an opportunity to participate in a huge competition. This might be just what it takes to turn the dwarves away from the old, horrible brew and embrace change.
This is a great cozy litrpg! The focus is on the story itself and it doesn’t get bogged down in the alcohol details. There is even fun songs. I’m really looking forward to book 3! Christian Gilliland does a great job with the narration!
Content warning: limited language
Peter died as a successful brewer here on Earth and woke up as a dwarf in a mine. He was excited until he found that dwarven beer is absolutely horrible!This began his career to save beer! It’s been a year in and he’s making good progress. Now he has an opportunity to participate in a huge competition. This might be just what it takes to turn the dwarves away from the old, horrible brew and embrace change.
This is a great cozy litrpg! The focus is on the story itself and it doesn’t get bogged down in the alcohol details. There is even fun songs. I’m really looking forward to book 3! Christian Gilliland does a great job with the narration!
Content warning: limited language
September 5, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up. I enjoy the series well enough but there is some lagging plot lines at times and some redundancy, but the overall thing I have with it is fun. Which as a person who reads very lit RPG is the most important part. Will read the next one I am sure
September 22, 2025
✨️ 4.5 stars ✨️
I loved the next book in the Beers and Beards series - who knew a book about dwarves and beer would be so much fun?!
I love the slower pace of these books, it really gives us time to get to know the characters well.
I can't wait to see what happens next in this wild journey!
I loved the next book in the Beers and Beards series - who knew a book about dwarves and beer would be so much fun?!
I love the slower pace of these books, it really gives us time to get to know the characters well.
I can't wait to see what happens next in this wild journey!
April 22, 2024
Excellent series, can't wait for the next book!
April 29, 2024
The foul-mouthed, wholesome nature of this series is still very cute and very endearing. I'm looking forward to a new setting and new adventures in the next book. 👍🏽👍🏽
May 1, 2024
silly and fun
June 7, 2024
Another fantastic installment of frivolity.
June 8, 2024
Awesome series! You have to listen to this on audible. Narrator does such a good job. Especially the parts with Penelope the brewery goat mascot. So funny!
August 13, 2024
Does a great job exploring more of Dwarven life.
October 3, 2024
Entertaining , the characters are its main strength. A fun listen.
October 21, 2024
Enjoyable read
Nice little world of fun. Decent character development. Magic system wasn't overly pushed. Needs more goats and beer. Cheers 🍻
Nice little world of fun. Decent character development. Magic system wasn't overly pushed. Needs more goats and beer. Cheers 🍻
October 23, 2024
A fun story. I love how every brewery had their own goat. The names of characters were very interesting.
March 11, 2025
3.25, not bad; it's another good filler book while I'm working.
July 24, 2025
I liked it.. kept me interested in what would happen next. Will Definitely read more from this author.
September 22, 2025
Fantastic
This series is so much fun to just sit back and relax with! I definitely recommend this series. And now off to the next
This series is so much fun to just sit back and relax with! I definitely recommend this series. And now off to the next
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews