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Tomes & Tea #2
A Pirate's Life for Tea
"You asked for this, Rain. Let's go capture a pirate."
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.
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.
444 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2023
904 people are currently reading
19871 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Thorne
14 books1,951 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 fiancée, 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 fiancée, or basking in the sun like a lizard.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,341 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. 🙄🙄
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.
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 😭
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!
March 27, 2023
“To all the one star reviews because the first book ‘had lesbians,’ I doubled the lesbians in this one just for you.”
^^^ This might be the single greatest dedication page I’ve ever seen, and the book earned 5 stars right there.
What I Liked: A great follow-up to “Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea.” I love Reyna and Kianthe, their devotion to each other, and how healthy their relationship is. It was also fun to see them in adventure mode, doing things more aligned with what they were trained for. It’s nice to read a book with a guaranteed happy ending. Most importantly, this book has pirates.
What I Didn’t Like: In the first book we alternated between Reyna and Kianthe’s POV, until the Epilogue where we suddenly have Serina’s POV. That had me really excited for this book, as I instantly loved Serina and Bobbie and I was excited to see their perspectives. However, in this book we return to alternating Reyna and Kianthe’s POVs (until the Epilogue). This means we don’t get in the heads of Serina and Bobbie, and we miss some really key moments with them. I ultimately wasn’t as invested in their relationship as I wanted to be. However, I don’t fault the author for sticking with the already established perspectives, and I do love our main two.
So… when is book three coming out?
^^^ This might be the single greatest dedication page I’ve ever seen, and the book earned 5 stars right there.
What I Liked: A great follow-up to “Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea.” I love Reyna and Kianthe, their devotion to each other, and how healthy their relationship is. It was also fun to see them in adventure mode, doing things more aligned with what they were trained for. It’s nice to read a book with a guaranteed happy ending. Most importantly, this book has pirates.
What I Didn’t Like: In the first book we alternated between Reyna and Kianthe’s POV, until the Epilogue where we suddenly have Serina’s POV. That had me really excited for this book, as I instantly loved Serina and Bobbie and I was excited to see their perspectives. However, in this book we return to alternating Reyna and Kianthe’s POVs (until the Epilogue). This means we don’t get in the heads of Serina and Bobbie, and we miss some really key moments with them. I ultimately wasn’t as invested in their relationship as I wanted to be. However, I don’t fault the author for sticking with the already established perspectives, and I do love our main two.
So… when is book three coming out?
October 22, 2024
3.5
Unlike the first installment, I feel like a Pirate's Life for Tea had a pacing issue that could not have been ignored.
The secondary romance, something that took up the focus for most of the novel, was poorly resolved.
The foundation was there, but by the 50% mark, I was convinced that the pair simply passed their expiration date, and they had lost me from there.
I feel like the pov emphasis was also a problem, again, since the story was so focused on Bobbie and Serrie for so long I felt as though having more of their pov and having scenes more involved with them would have done this a lot of good.
I also feel as though the eggs and dragon debacle were also horribly resolved and rushed. For a species we spent so much time focused on learning their ruthlessness for their young, merely accepting the loss of the third egg would not have gone as smoothly as it had in this novel and it kinda threw me out of the story because of it.
I did adore this novel do not get me wrong, the comedy and main relationship continued to woe me as much in the first novel and even the plot and new characters held my attention but this story simply felt as though it suffered needlessly.
That being said, I literally can't wait for book #3. I am so hyped.
Unlike the first installment, I feel like a Pirate's Life for Tea had a pacing issue that could not have been ignored.
The secondary romance, something that took up the focus for most of the novel, was poorly resolved.
The foundation was there, but by the 50% mark, I was convinced that the pair simply passed their expiration date, and they had lost me from there.
I feel like the pov emphasis was also a problem, again, since the story was so focused on Bobbie and Serrie for so long I felt as though having more of their pov and having scenes more involved with them would have done this a lot of good.
I also feel as though the eggs and dragon debacle were also horribly resolved and rushed. For a species we spent so much time focused on learning their ruthlessness for their young, merely accepting the loss of the third egg would not have gone as smoothly as it had in this novel and it kinda threw me out of the story because of it.
I did adore this novel do not get me wrong, the comedy and main relationship continued to woe me as much in the first novel and even the plot and new characters held my attention but this story simply felt as though it suffered needlessly.
That being said, I literally can't wait for book #3. I am so hyped.
July 7, 2023
Ok this was good
So I read the first one after starting a different series from this author and I loved the first book. This book continues it but is so much better. Why because there is an obvious nod to one of the greatest games of all time...Mass Effect...and the puns are even better.
While you don't need to read the first book, you should. But this is a fun packed adventure regardless.
So I read the first one after starting a different series from this author and I loved the first book. This book continues it but is so much better. Why because there is an obvious nod to one of the greatest games of all time...Mass Effect...and the puns are even better.
While you don't need to read the first book, you should. But this is a fun packed adventure regardless.
September 22, 2023
2.75 ★ but rounded up for the vibes
September 23, 2024
Kianthe and Reyna are back in the next Tomes & Tea Cozy Fantasies and this time they are exploring the open waters. The search for the dragon eggs has brought them to Nacean River and to Diarn Arlon's estate. In exchange for information on shipping manifests that might bring them closer to the dragon's eggs, Kianthe and Reyna must find a pirate that has been stealing wheat and grains. The couple joins forces with Bobbie, one of Arlon's constables and childhood friend of the pirate, Serina. The group soon finds out there is more to Serina being a pirate and finds them in a pirate's adventure.
This series has been one of my favorite romantasy series of the year. Although I did not enjoy this book as much as the first book, it did bring a lot of growth between Kiantha and Reyna as well as bring in new characters I am sure we will see again. I loved the audio for this series. The narrator was the same as in book one and felt that she was fantastic. Overall, I highly recommend this series, and I am excited for book three to come out next year.
A Pirate's Life for Tea is out October 1st.
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the opportunity to review the opportunity to review a Pirate's Life for Tea. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This series has been one of my favorite romantasy series of the year. Although I did not enjoy this book as much as the first book, it did bring a lot of growth between Kiantha and Reyna as well as bring in new characters I am sure we will see again. I loved the audio for this series. The narrator was the same as in book one and felt that she was fantastic. Overall, I highly recommend this series, and I am excited for book three to come out next year.
A Pirate's Life for Tea is out October 1st.
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the opportunity to review the opportunity to review a Pirate's Life for Tea. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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