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SerendipiTea #2
Read the Leaves
This whimsical gothic romance will appeal to readers who enjoyed the satire of Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey.
Mary Hawke’s family business is failing despite the popularity of her vampire romance serial, and her love life isn’t faring any better.
Mary wants to save Hawke Publishing before her family loses what little they have left. Unfortunately, their financial woes have lost them their printing press. Things look grim until a mysterious young lord appears. Not only does he have a printing press and the ability to save Mary’s business, but he bears a striking resemblance to the bloodthirsty vampire from her story. Mary’s infatuation with the man finds her growing embroiled in his secrets, including the death of his father under suspicious circumstances.
Getting closer to the lord could put both her life and heart in danger next, but without a signed agreement Mary’s story and business will be over. On top of it all the lord’s aversion to sunlight and odd habits are getting harder to ignore. But vampires aren’t real. Right?
This cozy, quirky read is book 2 of the SerendipiTea series. I strongly recommend reading the series in order.
Mary Hawke’s family business is failing despite the popularity of her vampire romance serial, and her love life isn’t faring any better.
Mary wants to save Hawke Publishing before her family loses what little they have left. Unfortunately, their financial woes have lost them their printing press. Things look grim until a mysterious young lord appears. Not only does he have a printing press and the ability to save Mary’s business, but he bears a striking resemblance to the bloodthirsty vampire from her story. Mary’s infatuation with the man finds her growing embroiled in his secrets, including the death of his father under suspicious circumstances.
Getting closer to the lord could put both her life and heart in danger next, but without a signed agreement Mary’s story and business will be over. On top of it all the lord’s aversion to sunlight and odd habits are getting harder to ignore. But vampires aren’t real. Right?
This cozy, quirky read is book 2 of the SerendipiTea series. I strongly recommend reading the series in order.
233 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 10, 2022
13 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Kate Valent
4 books25 followersKate Valent is three cats in a trench coat masquerading as a writer. She lives in Pennsylvania. She loves tea, history, and magic.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 28, 2022
Read the Leaves is a super-cute follow up to Tempest in a Teapot. Mary Hawke is the daughter of a publisher and an anonymous gothic author. Her current book features a vampire who has become the romantic lead despite her intentions to make him the villain. As she's battling writers block and debt, she meets handsome Luke, Lord Holiday: he owns a printing press, used to be good friends with her father, and seems to be interested in her! Unfortunately he also only goes out at night, avoids sunlight whenever possible, and drinks something RED (it can't be tea, can it?).
Drawing inspiration from Northanger Abbey, this is a cozy mystery/romance with a lot of gentle humor. If we wished Mary would simply talk to Luke, rather than believe off-the-wall rumors about him, we're also a little more focused on romance than other readers. The book is a lot of fun and will certainly satisfy anyone looking for a sweet romance with a little mystery and magic.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Drawing inspiration from Northanger Abbey, this is a cozy mystery/romance with a lot of gentle humor. If we wished Mary would simply talk to Luke, rather than believe off-the-wall rumors about him, we're also a little more focused on romance than other readers. The book is a lot of fun and will certainly satisfy anyone looking for a sweet romance with a little mystery and magic.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
October 30, 2023
George the cat should have been the main character 🤗
“I wish someone would ask me to dance.” She sighed, and from her right a meow answered her complaint. She startled. Then looked down, finding a black cat sitting on the chair beside her, tail swishing as it watched her.
“Oh, um, hello there.
I really liked the cozy horror vibe of this one, though I had the same problem with Lucas as I did with Martin - he just felt too underdeveloped. The entire vampire plot line was hilarious and I loved every second of it 😬
I am very excited for Bertram's story!
“I wish someone would ask me to dance.” She sighed, and from her right a meow answered her complaint. She startled. Then looked down, finding a black cat sitting on the chair beside her, tail swishing as it watched her.
“Oh, um, hello there.
I really liked the cozy horror vibe of this one, though I had the same problem with Lucas as I did with Martin - he just felt too underdeveloped. The entire vampire plot line was hilarious and I loved every second of it 😬
I am very excited for Bertram's story!
October 7, 2022
I absolutely loved the first book in this series! It was original, it was funny, it was romantic and it had amazing characters I really loved by the end of the book. I was therefore quite happy when I saw an e-mail from BookSirens in my mailbox notifying me that the second book in the series was now available. I didn't hesitate and got the book, without reading about whom it was gonna be, and I was even more excited to dive into this book when I noticed this book starred my favorite author!
This book was everything I had hoped it would be and maybe even a little bit more! Just like the first book in the series it was funny, entertaining, exciting and romantic. Especially the plot kept me guessing constantly. I mean, I knew things weren't what they seemed, things rarely are when it comes to books like this, but I got more and more curious to find out how all the pieces of the puzzle would eventually click!
I also really loved the characters in this novel. The heroine was perfect! But, she could only be so perfect because she had an awesome father who let her be herself. She could write her novels, even if she had to use a penname to be taken seriously. She could get involved with her father's business without her father not respecting her opinions or ideas. She was allowed to try and do business with other companies and people. She just knew nothing about romance. At all.
Which made the romance even more perfect! Our heroine was falling and she kept on trying to convince herself that it wasn't real, that she wasn't feeling all this. Luckily she found a perfect gentleman. Yes, he might have some strange hobbies and habits, but he was also exactly the kind of guy I would like to meet one day. Charming, galant, a little bit awkward at times, slightly paranoid and really protective!
I WANT MORE! There is gonna be more, right?
This book was everything I had hoped it would be and maybe even a little bit more! Just like the first book in the series it was funny, entertaining, exciting and romantic. Especially the plot kept me guessing constantly. I mean, I knew things weren't what they seemed, things rarely are when it comes to books like this, but I got more and more curious to find out how all the pieces of the puzzle would eventually click!
I also really loved the characters in this novel. The heroine was perfect! But, she could only be so perfect because she had an awesome father who let her be herself. She could write her novels, even if she had to use a penname to be taken seriously. She could get involved with her father's business without her father not respecting her opinions or ideas. She was allowed to try and do business with other companies and people. She just knew nothing about romance. At all.
Which made the romance even more perfect! Our heroine was falling and she kept on trying to convince herself that it wasn't real, that she wasn't feeling all this. Luckily she found a perfect gentleman. Yes, he might have some strange hobbies and habits, but he was also exactly the kind of guy I would like to meet one day. Charming, galant, a little bit awkward at times, slightly paranoid and really protective!
I WANT MORE! There is gonna be more, right?
December 2, 2023
Another nice little story in taking place in the same universe as 'Tempest in a Teapot'. Not exactly the sequel; this story takes place at more or less the same time as the previous one. That means that some events described in this book were already told on the first of the series. Although I was surprised about this, I also thought it quite refreshing.
In general, the story is a bit silly, what with the vampire thing. I was not a fan of Mary and Margaret's relationship. This was already something I had not enjoyed in the previous book. I don't really like Margaret that much.
So, I suppose I liked the first book more than this. Nevertheless I am curious for the next one.
In general, the story is a bit silly, what with the vampire thing. I was not a fan of Mary and Margaret's relationship. This was already something I had not enjoyed in the previous book. I don't really like Margaret that much.
So, I suppose I liked the first book more than this. Nevertheless I am curious for the next one.
September 8, 2022
I know that people can get too caught up in fictitious stories or games; just look at those people who insist that D&D is real outside of gaming or conventions. I did not expect that an author would tumble into a situation that mirrors her own writing so faithfully. And when that situation includes a family feud and potential romance ... woo boy, is this an exciting read! (And that is not something I normally would say about a Victorian cozy mystery, however magical!)
I received an ARC via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 17, 2022
📖 This is the second book in the Serendipi-tea series by author Kate Valent and it’s a great addition. This novel primarily follows Mary, a young writer who writes under a pseudonym so that no one knows who she is (and that she is female). When her father's publishing company, which publishes her works, runs into financial troubles, Mary with the help of her sister Margaret, and her friend Charlotte try to do all they can to save it.
✍️ Also woven throughout this novel is a blossoming romance. Mary meets the dashing Lord Holiday, an odd fellow, who only appears to spend time out in the evening. Even more strange, is how closely Lord Holiday resembles Lord Hallow, the vampire from the serial that Mary writes. Can Mary trust this handsome stranger, or is he more alike Lord Hallow than she would like to believe? In this magical world, it feels like anything is possible.
🗣 I often think it’s useful to see an extract of a book to get an idea of the writing style. Here is a brief extract so that you can see a sample of the writing yourself:
👓 This book is a fantasy book with much of the side story being around runes and their use (originally by the wealthy but with more and more making their way to the working class). The book is set in a somewhat historical Victorian setting, with many traditions, and mannerisms (and class systems) referenced from that time period.
👫 Great range of characters, both Mary and her sister Margaret are fun and intriguing characters. Mary trying to make her way in what has up until recently been a male-dominated world is handled delicately and a great nod to the time period that is being captured.
🗺 One of the things I really liked about this story is that although it is a continuation of a series, it was not a continuation of Charlotte’s story (although she does feature) but is a new story focusing on a completely different character.
💔 Any Negatives: I wish Mary and Margaret had perhaps been given slightly different names. As the names are quite similar, I sometimes got a little lost and misread them (thinking it was one or the other). If it had been something different from each other but still historical sounding, Mary and Emily, or something else it would have made it a little easier to read on the eyes. But that is quite picky and probably more of a personal preference.
💭 Overall View: An enjoyable romp through a magical Victorian world (with writers, books, tea and cakes!). An excellent addition to the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
✍️ Also woven throughout this novel is a blossoming romance. Mary meets the dashing Lord Holiday, an odd fellow, who only appears to spend time out in the evening. Even more strange, is how closely Lord Holiday resembles Lord Hallow, the vampire from the serial that Mary writes. Can Mary trust this handsome stranger, or is he more alike Lord Hallow than she would like to believe? In this magical world, it feels like anything is possible.
🗣 I often think it’s useful to see an extract of a book to get an idea of the writing style. Here is a brief extract so that you can see a sample of the writing yourself:
She was certain she had never seen him before. But to be at this party he must be someone, either a magician, lord, or businessman. She couldn’t fathom who or what he was or get the thoughts of the villainous vampire out of her head.
👓 This book is a fantasy book with much of the side story being around runes and their use (originally by the wealthy but with more and more making their way to the working class). The book is set in a somewhat historical Victorian setting, with many traditions, and mannerisms (and class systems) referenced from that time period.
👫 Great range of characters, both Mary and her sister Margaret are fun and intriguing characters. Mary trying to make her way in what has up until recently been a male-dominated world is handled delicately and a great nod to the time period that is being captured.
🗺 One of the things I really liked about this story is that although it is a continuation of a series, it was not a continuation of Charlotte’s story (although she does feature) but is a new story focusing on a completely different character.
💔 Any Negatives: I wish Mary and Margaret had perhaps been given slightly different names. As the names are quite similar, I sometimes got a little lost and misread them (thinking it was one or the other). If it had been something different from each other but still historical sounding, Mary and Emily, or something else it would have made it a little easier to read on the eyes. But that is quite picky and probably more of a personal preference.
💭 Overall View: An enjoyable romp through a magical Victorian world (with writers, books, tea and cakes!). An excellent addition to the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 3, 2022
Genre: Historical Fantasy Romance
Heat Level: Sweet (a tiny bit of innuendo)
Language: Mild
I jumped into this book without any preconceived notions. The magic was intertwined into the world, but not an overriding element. Instead, the relationships are at the forefront. And lots of laughter! Oh my goodness—I laughed so many times through this.
Whenever a book has me laughing, I'm going to love it. Mary is so relatable with her love for books, writing, and wanting a job instead of getting married and being miserable like her parents. Margaret is the wild child, out and about doing who knows what. I liked the difference in their personalities and hope to read Margaret's story in the future. Then Lord Holiday is the epitome of vampiric characteristics—tall, goes out at night, pale skin, and he's frequently mistaken for the vampire in a serial novel. Oh, the funny moments when he doesn't understand what is going on are too good.
There were a couple of sentences near the beginning that felt repetitive, but it's not a big deal. And I didn't like the characters saying "ok"—it didn't feel right even though the etymology of word usage shows it was used in a newspaper during the Victorian era. I didn't mark it down for either of these things because they're so minor.
The romping progression of the story had me in stitches. In fact, the last quarter of the book had to be read in one sitting. I couldn't wait any longer for the story's resolution. And I loved the ending! Nailing (or staking) it can be tricky so, it was great to feel satisfied at the end. (I know you can't see me, but I'm smiling.)
Seriously, this fantasy romance is worth reading, and I plan to read more by this author. It has my recommendation to you.
I received an ARC of READ THE LEAVES by Kate Valent in exchange for my honest opinion.
Heat Level: Sweet (a tiny bit of innuendo)
Language: Mild
I jumped into this book without any preconceived notions. The magic was intertwined into the world, but not an overriding element. Instead, the relationships are at the forefront. And lots of laughter! Oh my goodness—I laughed so many times through this.
Whenever a book has me laughing, I'm going to love it. Mary is so relatable with her love for books, writing, and wanting a job instead of getting married and being miserable like her parents. Margaret is the wild child, out and about doing who knows what. I liked the difference in their personalities and hope to read Margaret's story in the future. Then Lord Holiday is the epitome of vampiric characteristics—tall, goes out at night, pale skin, and he's frequently mistaken for the vampire in a serial novel. Oh, the funny moments when he doesn't understand what is going on are too good.
There were a couple of sentences near the beginning that felt repetitive, but it's not a big deal. And I didn't like the characters saying "ok"—it didn't feel right even though the etymology of word usage shows it was used in a newspaper during the Victorian era. I didn't mark it down for either of these things because they're so minor.
The romping progression of the story had me in stitches. In fact, the last quarter of the book had to be read in one sitting. I couldn't wait any longer for the story's resolution. And I loved the ending! Nailing (or staking) it can be tricky so, it was great to feel satisfied at the end. (I know you can't see me, but I'm smiling.)
Seriously, this fantasy romance is worth reading, and I plan to read more by this author. It has my recommendation to you.
I received an ARC of READ THE LEAVES by Kate Valent in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 9, 2022
Read the Leaves is the 2nd book in Valent’s magical Victorian world. Most of the characters from book 1 (Tempest in a Teapot) reapppear, and the plot of this story kicks off ~60% through the events in the first book.
Mary is an aspiring writer trying to save her family publishing business. Her lurid gothic serial might be the key to reversing their fortunes, but she’s unsure how her story will go: it started as a horror story, but readers found the villainous vampire sexy. Then Mary is approached by a mysterious lord who offers to save her business… but why does he only appear at night?
I was a fan of Valent’s debut: there were tons of wacky adventures and a cutesy romance at its heart. This sequel was a bit anticlimactic. Mary got less time with her brooding beau, which led to less chemistry between them, and the printing press/vampire serial plots took up more space than they should (it was a fun meta-commentary on romance novels, but since the author works in publishing I wonder if they were sharing too much insider expertise with the reader). There was minimal magic in this story: I don’t expect as much of a magical system/worldbuilding in a romantic fantasy, but I was disappointed the rune magic in book 1 wasn’t explored further or used more.
That said, it Read the Leaves was a fun blend of gothic and wacky, and there were a few really great jokes in the final act. It’s a short read you can zip through in the time it takes to drink a cup of tea. 🫖🐈⬛🧛♂️
I received an advance copy from Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mary is an aspiring writer trying to save her family publishing business. Her lurid gothic serial might be the key to reversing their fortunes, but she’s unsure how her story will go: it started as a horror story, but readers found the villainous vampire sexy. Then Mary is approached by a mysterious lord who offers to save her business… but why does he only appear at night?
I was a fan of Valent’s debut: there were tons of wacky adventures and a cutesy romance at its heart. This sequel was a bit anticlimactic. Mary got less time with her brooding beau, which led to less chemistry between them, and the printing press/vampire serial plots took up more space than they should (it was a fun meta-commentary on romance novels, but since the author works in publishing I wonder if they were sharing too much insider expertise with the reader). There was minimal magic in this story: I don’t expect as much of a magical system/worldbuilding in a romantic fantasy, but I was disappointed the rune magic in book 1 wasn’t explored further or used more.
That said, it Read the Leaves was a fun blend of gothic and wacky, and there were a few really great jokes in the final act. It’s a short read you can zip through in the time it takes to drink a cup of tea. 🫖🐈⬛🧛♂️
I received an advance copy from Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2022
Whimsical, magical, funny, ridiculous, and lovely.
This story had the same whimsical feel as the first story in the series. The author created a world where magic is blended with science and technology. It is accepted as a normal part of everyday Victorian life. This is the backdrop for Mary and Lucas’ story.
Mary likes Lucas. But she thinks he might be a vampire (for a lot of ridiculous reasons) and isn’t sure if she should be around him. Lucas likes Mary too and has no idea she thinks he’s a vampire. Of course, his behavior doesn’t help his cause. He only comes out at night, he runs away when he sees blood, he never eats in front of Mary, and he only drinks a strange red tea when they are together. Finding out the truth was at times funny and at time just ridiculous.
Mixed in with all the weirdness was the fun of visiting with characters from the first story and meeting a new gaggle of misfits in this one. There were a lot of scenes I found funny. But, my favorite part might be the hair-dressing rose bushes at Lucas’ manor.
This is a light-hearted, fun series and I do recommend this story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story had the same whimsical feel as the first story in the series. The author created a world where magic is blended with science and technology. It is accepted as a normal part of everyday Victorian life. This is the backdrop for Mary and Lucas’ story.
Mary likes Lucas. But she thinks he might be a vampire (for a lot of ridiculous reasons) and isn’t sure if she should be around him. Lucas likes Mary too and has no idea she thinks he’s a vampire. Of course, his behavior doesn’t help his cause. He only comes out at night, he runs away when he sees blood, he never eats in front of Mary, and he only drinks a strange red tea when they are together. Finding out the truth was at times funny and at time just ridiculous.
Mixed in with all the weirdness was the fun of visiting with characters from the first story and meeting a new gaggle of misfits in this one. There were a lot of scenes I found funny. But, my favorite part might be the hair-dressing rose bushes at Lucas’ manor.
This is a light-hearted, fun series and I do recommend this story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 20, 2022
This book is a second in a series, I think of three books but I am not sure. However, there is enough distinction between the books that it could be a stand-alone. I appreciate that as I did not read the first book.
While the story does not give a time period, it seems of the 1800s, not earlier. Magicians and magic are commonplace and normal on this world. I think it gave the story an added dimension, which I liked.
I enjoyed reading about a woman who was interesting and was a writer. Her story about the direction of her published chapters reminded me of Vella, which also publishes chapters. I know they did that back in the 1800s, and people would find stories and clamor for different twists and turns.
And the hero is an unusual character! I loved that he had different hobbies from the social norm.
Stories like this almost can be read in an afternoon or evening, depending on your superstition levels. While it seemed a little slow on romance, there was a good buildup. However, I would not call it a steamy romance, but a happy ending one.
Five stars!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While the story does not give a time period, it seems of the 1800s, not earlier. Magicians and magic are commonplace and normal on this world. I think it gave the story an added dimension, which I liked.
I enjoyed reading about a woman who was interesting and was a writer. Her story about the direction of her published chapters reminded me of Vella, which also publishes chapters. I know they did that back in the 1800s, and people would find stories and clamor for different twists and turns.
And the hero is an unusual character! I loved that he had different hobbies from the social norm.
Stories like this almost can be read in an afternoon or evening, depending on your superstition levels. While it seemed a little slow on romance, there was a good buildup. However, I would not call it a steamy romance, but a happy ending one.
Five stars!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 2, 2022
Reading the leaves is not going to help!
I always go into a new book wanting to love it. I'm even willing to settle for liking it, but sadly Read the Leaves just rose to the level of okay.
Don't get me wrong, there were parts that entertained, but other parts that were a bit tedious. I think what bothered me most was this books identity crisis. I could not tell if this Victorian era tale was a fantasy, a paranormal, a romance or a comedy. Seriously, it switched back and forth so much I was afraid of whiplash.
Then there were the characters. All of them had their front-n-center moments, but over all, none really made me want to get and know them.
Thankfully, Kate Valent gave this standalone read an interesting ending (with a twist) and a very sweet epilogue.
Content 411: This book does not contain any sex or vulgarities, but it does have a moderate amount of religious and secular swearing.
Disclosure: I received this book for free from BookSirens. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, and this is my honest review.
I always go into a new book wanting to love it. I'm even willing to settle for liking it, but sadly Read the Leaves just rose to the level of okay.
Don't get me wrong, there were parts that entertained, but other parts that were a bit tedious. I think what bothered me most was this books identity crisis. I could not tell if this Victorian era tale was a fantasy, a paranormal, a romance or a comedy. Seriously, it switched back and forth so much I was afraid of whiplash.
Then there were the characters. All of them had their front-n-center moments, but over all, none really made me want to get and know them.
Thankfully, Kate Valent gave this standalone read an interesting ending (with a twist) and a very sweet epilogue.
Content 411: This book does not contain any sex or vulgarities, but it does have a moderate amount of religious and secular swearing.
Disclosure: I received this book for free from BookSirens. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, and this is my honest review.
September 19, 2022
The second volume of the Serendipitea series was a good one. This time, we follow the story of Mary, Charlotte's friend and secret author of a vampire series. Mysteries are here and of course potential romance.
I liked this volume but maybe a little less than the first novel of the series. While, the characters were fine and the story entertaining, I wasn't as charmed by this plot than I was by the first novel's. It might be because I am not that into vampire stories or I probably missed the charming magic of the first novel's goofy male protagonist.
There was a bit of a 'Northanger Abbey' vibe to this story and just as when I read Austen's novel, I was a little bit annoyed with the main character.
However that was still a good book and that was still very-well written!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked this volume but maybe a little less than the first novel of the series. While, the characters were fine and the story entertaining, I wasn't as charmed by this plot than I was by the first novel's. It might be because I am not that into vampire stories or I probably missed the charming magic of the first novel's goofy male protagonist.
There was a bit of a 'Northanger Abbey' vibe to this story and just as when I read Austen's novel, I was a little bit annoyed with the main character.
However that was still a good book and that was still very-well written!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 7, 2022
This series is utterly charming! I enjoyed the second installment even more than the first, and that set quite a high bar! It was lighthearted and a joy to read.
My favorite thing about the main characters is how believably awkward they are! The characters and their overactive imaginations are so relatable and so much fun! The conflict was so well done, too - I kept turning pages, wondering how exactly it would all resolve.
I love how believably Kate Valent mixes magic with aspects of historical Victorian England to create her settings. This series has had such a rich backdrop and it adds to the characters and plot perfectly!
Overall, a delightful read and I look forward to additional Kate Valent books in the future!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My favorite thing about the main characters is how believably awkward they are! The characters and their overactive imaginations are so relatable and so much fun! The conflict was so well done, too - I kept turning pages, wondering how exactly it would all resolve.
I love how believably Kate Valent mixes magic with aspects of historical Victorian England to create her settings. This series has had such a rich backdrop and it adds to the characters and plot perfectly!
Overall, a delightful read and I look forward to additional Kate Valent books in the future!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 20, 2022
I didn’t know what to expect from this since I haven’t read book 1 that came before this. The storyline was enchanting—-Mary is trying to save her father’s printing business and Lord Lucas seems to be the answer to her prayers. I’m fairly new to reading books with magic, so it seemed to be a little mix of Beauty and the Beast and Fantasia. The books in the library were interesting.
I was a bit confused when Mary went with Father Matthew to get proof of Lucas being a vampire. She had strong feelings toward him but starts to throw them away on conjecture. I would’ve like more of the romance aspect rather than the vampire one. Maybe book 1 explains about the “magic and glamour” that’s in the book.
It’s a cute book to read around Halloween.
I received a free copy of the book and have reviewed it voluntarily.
I was a bit confused when Mary went with Father Matthew to get proof of Lucas being a vampire. She had strong feelings toward him but starts to throw them away on conjecture. I would’ve like more of the romance aspect rather than the vampire one. Maybe book 1 explains about the “magic and glamour” that’s in the book.
It’s a cute book to read around Halloween.
I received a free copy of the book and have reviewed it voluntarily.
June 18, 2024
Mary writes penny dreadfuls under a pen name and is desperate to save her publishing house so she makes an alliance with Lord Holiday who owns a printing press and looks and behaves exactly like the vampire hearthrob she created.
This HAS to be read after the first book, also this NEEDS to be read ONLY if you've read and loved Northanger Abbey because this is heavily inspired by it (and you haven't read and loved Northanger Abbey, are we even friends?). Charlotte and Martin (and Oolong!) from the first book make several appearances, the romance between Mary and Lord H is very sweet and there's another cat to pet (George), plus tea! I really enjoyed this book.
This was realy good, just the succession of mysteries about Lord Holiday was a tad long hence the four stars but seriously this series is chef's kiss.
This HAS to be read after the first book, also this NEEDS to be read ONLY if you've read and loved Northanger Abbey because this is heavily inspired by it (and you haven't read and loved Northanger Abbey, are we even friends?). Charlotte and Martin (and Oolong!) from the first book make several appearances, the romance between Mary and Lord H is very sweet and there's another cat to pet (George), plus tea! I really enjoyed this book.
This was realy good, just the succession of mysteries about Lord Holiday was a tad long hence the four stars but seriously this series is chef's kiss.
October 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. It’s the second in a series, but you can easily read and follow along even if you haven’t read the first book, Tempest in a Teapot.
If you have read the first, then you’ll be familiar with Charlotte’s friend Mary Hawke. This is her story. It follows her as she tries to save her family publishing business, meeting a handsome , but peculiar lord, who could help save the business with his printing press, but also a potential love interest for Mary, if his odd behavior doesn’t get in the way!
As with the first book, this is a fun, cozy read set in the Victorian time period with fun whimsical magic touches.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you have read the first, then you’ll be familiar with Charlotte’s friend Mary Hawke. This is her story. It follows her as she tries to save her family publishing business, meeting a handsome , but peculiar lord, who could help save the business with his printing press, but also a potential love interest for Mary, if his odd behavior doesn’t get in the way!
As with the first book, this is a fun, cozy read set in the Victorian time period with fun whimsical magic touches.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 19, 2022
Oh this is so good! Vampire stories, vampire hunters and vampire imposters. Hawke publishing is struggling due to Mary’s uncle’s embezzelment. Add to that her writer’s block regarding her vampire story and a tall pale handsome stranger who doesn’t eat and drinks a thick red liquid….and you have the beginnings of an exciting adventure full of misdirects and mistakes. This story takes you on a convoluted journey full of magical mishaps, emotional confrontations and surprising twists. This author is one creative storyteller!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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May 26, 2024The second in this series, Read the Leaves attempts a slight Gothic flair/mimicry like Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey. Obviously this is not a satire but a gentle homage to the Gothic genre instead. It didn't quite hit for me despite a few cute or humorous moments. The author kept repeating certain pieces of information that began to distract me by pulling me from the story to wondering if she had forgotten she'd given that info a couple times already/editing etc. Hints are dropped for at least two other characters future story lines but I'm doubtful that I'll be continuing on with the series.
September 12, 2022
Oh, this book exceeded my expectations tenfold. I could barely put it down and read it in just one day. The characters are so easy to love and root for and while the side characters need some work, Mary and Lucas were so adorable, I couldn't help but coo and laugh at their antics throughout the whole story. I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first, so if you have reservations about continuing the series, it is worth the read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 12, 2022
Book two of this series and we are introduced to new characters. Mary has written serial romance stories. But, her family business is failing and the future looks dark. Until one day a mysterious stranger enters the picture. Mary feels like this stranger is familiar to her. Mary realizes that he is very similar to one of her characters. A cozy mystery with amusing characters and a suspenseful plot. Another great story from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 14, 2022
Read the Leaves is a charming Gothic Romance whose MFC Mary Hawke, writer of a Vampire Romance serial and in the midst of trying to salvage her family business suddenly finds herself in a situation akin to life imitating art in this very engaging read.
Quirky and magical, mysterious and delightful this story was a well written comedy of errors featuring a cast of pleasantly crafted characters whose effervescent personalities bring an enticing narrative to life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Quirky and magical, mysterious and delightful this story was a well written comedy of errors featuring a cast of pleasantly crafted characters whose effervescent personalities bring an enticing narrative to life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2022
Read the Leaves is Book 2 in Serendipi Tea by Kate Valent. I completely enjoyed this book. I thought the story was romantic, but, there was a touch of mystery thrown in also. I liked that Mary wrote stories that totally blended in with her mysterious man she met at a party. George the cat was awesome! I don't want to spoil the book so I can't say much about the story except I completely enjoyed Read the Leaves. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
October 13, 2022
This is the second story in the SerendipiTea series. Kate Valent did it again. I can not get enough of her books. Can't wait for the next one. She has a lovely romance story wrapped around the eccentric or dangerous man. The female main character needs to decipher the mystery surrounding her man before she can claim him. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good romance with a bit of mystery to it.
I received this book as an Arc and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I received this book as an Arc and am leaving a review voluntarily.
January 25, 2026
Some aspects of this book were very repetitive at the beginning and that bothered me. like gurl we know you are struggling with what to write in your book… but like saying it over and over isn’t adding to the plot… Otherwise it was kinda a fun plot.
May 24, 2024
I adored how the 1st and 2nd novels intertwined. Bravo to this authors creativity and wordsmithing.
June 30, 2025
Are vampires real? Of course not. But maybe...?
Mary's serial novel has sparked an interest in vampires and even she gets caught up in vampire mania. The story keeps you questioning whether or not vampires exist in this world.
The cozy business content continues with Mary's writing, her family's publishing business, and the male lead's printing business. The story starts during the climax of book 1 so roll back some of that resolution.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Mary's serial novel has sparked an interest in vampires and even she gets caught up in vampire mania. The story keeps you questioning whether or not vampires exist in this world.
The cozy business content continues with Mary's writing, her family's publishing business, and the male lead's printing business. The story starts during the climax of book 1 so roll back some of that resolution.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 21, 2025
Not as good as first one but entertaining
I am Really done with women falling in love with people who frighten them or violent. Spoiler ish...
How does she suspect him Of murder but still Hope he kisses her? You lost me.
I am Really done with women falling in love with people who frighten them or violent. Spoiler ish...
How does she suspect him Of murder but still Hope he kisses her? You lost me.
May 26, 2025
Preferred Mary and Lucas to Charlotte and Martin. George was a nice addition too
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