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The Chronicles of Lucitopia #2
The Tinker's Daughter
She thought she'd won a pig... but this wasn't that kind of lottery...
From bestselling author Josephine Angelini comes a delightful cozy fantasy read about magic, courage, and the power of an unlikely alliance. Perfect for fans of Olivia Atwater and Travis Baldree.
Jonara had been a good girl her entire life, and that’s what nearly gets her killed. Being the only virgin for miles made her the perfect candidate for a sacrifice to the village dragon. But lucky for Jonara, this dragon is different, off virgins entirely, opting for a pescatarian diet instead.
Being the resourceful young woman that she is, Jonara uses the opportunity to enlist the dragon’s help in her quest to defeat Asphodel, an evil sorcerer who has decimated town after town in his march south to claim the throne vacated by the newly dead king.
With the help of her dragon, Jonara gathers an army against Asphodel and his dark forces. But this dragon has a secret, one which holds the key to their success. And like with most things in Lucitopia, it also comes at a price, one which Jonara may be unwilling to pay.
From bestselling author Josephine Angelini comes a delightful cozy fantasy read about magic, courage, and the power of an unlikely alliance. Perfect for fans of Olivia Atwater and Travis Baldree.
Jonara had been a good girl her entire life, and that’s what nearly gets her killed. Being the only virgin for miles made her the perfect candidate for a sacrifice to the village dragon. But lucky for Jonara, this dragon is different, off virgins entirely, opting for a pescatarian diet instead.
Being the resourceful young woman that she is, Jonara uses the opportunity to enlist the dragon’s help in her quest to defeat Asphodel, an evil sorcerer who has decimated town after town in his march south to claim the throne vacated by the newly dead king.
With the help of her dragon, Jonara gathers an army against Asphodel and his dark forces. But this dragon has a secret, one which holds the key to their success. And like with most things in Lucitopia, it also comes at a price, one which Jonara may be unwilling to pay.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2023
4 people are currently reading
3536 people want to read
About the author
Josephine Angelini
25 books7,652 followersHi! Thanks so much for stopping by my Goodreads page. I only check in on it occasionally, so if you’d like to send me a message please use the contact form on my website: http://josephineangelini.com.
I can also be found on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, and I love connecting with readers. Check out the Linktree url above for more info.
I am a #1 international bestselling author, a Massachusetts native, and the youngest of eight siblings. I graduated from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts in theater with a focus on the classics and now live in Los Angeles with my husband and daughter.
I can also be found on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, and I love connecting with readers. Check out the Linktree url above for more info.
I am a #1 international bestselling author, a Massachusetts native, and the youngest of eight siblings. I graduated from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts in theater with a focus on the classics and now live in Los Angeles with my husband and daughter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
December 23, 2024
I wish Dragon would cover me in his gold dust, please and Thankyou.
I loved this. Once again we revisit the land of Lucitopia where people from earth can come and LARP for realsies.
Jonara was an awesome main character and Dragon was an equally awesome love interest/MMC.
The severely flawed villain Asphodel was giving Loki vibes and i smell a possible redemption arc, but overall I loved the medieval type quest and lessons learned along the way.
Also, even though this was slightly more adult than the last one it’s still very PG. If this had been full adult it would have been my perfect dragon lord romance book.
https://youtube.com/@chanelchapters
I loved this. Once again we revisit the land of Lucitopia where people from earth can come and LARP for realsies.
Jonara was an awesome main character and Dragon was an equally awesome love interest/MMC.
The severely flawed villain Asphodel was giving Loki vibes and i smell a possible redemption arc, but overall I loved the medieval type quest and lessons learned along the way.
Also, even though this was slightly more adult than the last one it’s still very PG. If this had been full adult it would have been my perfect dragon lord romance book.
https://youtube.com/@chanelchapters
September 24, 2024
This was so much fun! More on the cozy side of fantasy rather than your usual high-stakes story.
Jonara, the tinker’s daughter, is told she’s won the lottery in her village! Assuming that she’s won a pig, she gladly accepts- only to learn that the prize for this lottery is actually being the Virgin sacrifice to a dragon.
But this dragon isn’t actually what he seems, and she learns that her dragon can’t even remember his own name, as it was stolen by the evil wizard Asphodel. It’s up to Jonara, Dragon, and their ragtag army to knock this magical foe down!
The Tinker’s Daughter is filled with laughs and adventure! Thank you to Netgalley and Sungrazer Publishing for this copy in exchange for my review!
Jonara, the tinker’s daughter, is told she’s won the lottery in her village! Assuming that she’s won a pig, she gladly accepts- only to learn that the prize for this lottery is actually being the Virgin sacrifice to a dragon.
But this dragon isn’t actually what he seems, and she learns that her dragon can’t even remember his own name, as it was stolen by the evil wizard Asphodel. It’s up to Jonara, Dragon, and their ragtag army to knock this magical foe down!
The Tinker’s Daughter is filled with laughs and adventure! Thank you to Netgalley and Sungrazer Publishing for this copy in exchange for my review!
September 29, 2024
I was surprised to discover that this is Book 2 in a series, though it doesn't end up mattering; it stands alone quite happily.
It's humourous, adventurous and romantic, and does well at all three. True, the romance is a bit rapid, but because both of the people involved are actually appealing, I forgive it. The female lead (and narrator) is the kind of competent, pragmatic young woman I particularly enjoy reading, and the male lead is good-hearted, brave, kind, generous and, when necessary, fierce in a good cause.
I did find that some of the minor characters, several of whom were introduced all at once, weren't easy to keep straight; repeating some of the key words from their introductions when they came back onstage would sort that out easily enough.
Its big weakness is that, whether because the author uses dictation software and doesn't check it properly or is just bad at spelling, it's full of basic homonym errors. Most prominent among these is, of course, "horde" for "hoard," since there's a dragon in it, and his hoard gets mentioned frequently; it is, at least, consistently spelled, which is something, even if it's always the incorrect version. We also get ringing for wringing, flair for flare, cantors for canters (which is one I've never seen before), enormity for enormousness (though we've probably lost that fight, which is unfortunate, because there's no other word that means exactly what enormity meant before everyone started confusing it with enormousness), you're for your, chord for cord (and chorded for corded), their for they're, anymore for any more (anymore only refers to time), apprising for appraising, beset for set, lest for unless, and birth for berth (as in "a wide berth").
Note that I had a pre-publication version via Netgalley, so if it goes past an editor who can spell between now and publication, these should all hopefully be fixed. Otherwise, there weren't too many copy editing issues; just commas after "of course" where there shouldn't have been (because it was just agreeing with the previous statement), and two queens calling each other "Your Highness" instead of "Your Majesty," plus a few sentences that would have benefited from a comma to signal the grammar more clearly.
The storytelling is strong, and hits the emotional beats well. The characters are appealing, the conflict is engaging, and the humour doesn't try too hard. It's a recommendation from me, and would be a higher-tier one (silver rather than bronze) if the author knew how to spell.
It's humourous, adventurous and romantic, and does well at all three. True, the romance is a bit rapid, but because both of the people involved are actually appealing, I forgive it. The female lead (and narrator) is the kind of competent, pragmatic young woman I particularly enjoy reading, and the male lead is good-hearted, brave, kind, generous and, when necessary, fierce in a good cause.
I did find that some of the minor characters, several of whom were introduced all at once, weren't easy to keep straight; repeating some of the key words from their introductions when they came back onstage would sort that out easily enough.
Its big weakness is that, whether because the author uses dictation software and doesn't check it properly or is just bad at spelling, it's full of basic homonym errors. Most prominent among these is, of course, "horde" for "hoard," since there's a dragon in it, and his hoard gets mentioned frequently; it is, at least, consistently spelled, which is something, even if it's always the incorrect version. We also get ringing for wringing, flair for flare, cantors for canters (which is one I've never seen before), enormity for enormousness (though we've probably lost that fight, which is unfortunate, because there's no other word that means exactly what enormity meant before everyone started confusing it with enormousness), you're for your, chord for cord (and chorded for corded), their for they're, anymore for any more (anymore only refers to time), apprising for appraising, beset for set, lest for unless, and birth for berth (as in "a wide berth").
Note that I had a pre-publication version via Netgalley, so if it goes past an editor who can spell between now and publication, these should all hopefully be fixed. Otherwise, there weren't too many copy editing issues; just commas after "of course" where there shouldn't have been (because it was just agreeing with the previous statement), and two queens calling each other "Your Highness" instead of "Your Majesty," plus a few sentences that would have benefited from a comma to signal the grammar more clearly.
The storytelling is strong, and hits the emotional beats well. The characters are appealing, the conflict is engaging, and the humour doesn't try too hard. It's a recommendation from me, and would be a higher-tier one (silver rather than bronze) if the author knew how to spell.
September 27, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Sungrazer Publishing for the e-ARC of The Tinker’s Daughter.
This is the second book in The Chronicles of Lucitopia but so far, it is the only one I’ve read, and I had no problems keeping up with the story. As far as I can tell from reading the descriptions of the four books on Goodreads, they mostly stand alone within a larger universe with a twist that can be spoiled for those interested by looking at the descriptions of the other books in the series. In The Tinker’s Daughter, Jonara, the protagonist, was offered as a sacrifice to a dragon. Instead, she recruited it to help her defeat the local tyrant Asphodel - and found a life-changing romance on the side.
The writing of The Tinker’s Daughter is casual and loose, easy to sink into but sometimes too casual. It’s distracting, but not egregious, and technically speaking, there’s an in-universe reason that this could happen, but it just feels slightly under-edited instead. There were also a few typos, which I also didn’t find to be too distracting. On a more serious note, there were a few mentions of accidental sexual touching in the first quarter of the book. It was a very weird inclusion, and very off putting as a basis for a romance.
Tinkers are one of my favorite character tropes, and I’m always happy to read a story centered around an independent woman with a dragon by her side. I think this story could have used some polishing, but it’s still cute and an easy read; I’d like to read the others in the series.
3.5/5 stars.
dnf
October 6, 2024DNF 16%
I loved the premise of The Tinker’s Daughter—young woman is sacrificed to a dragon but instead allies with it to take down an evil sorcerer? Sold!
But that’s where I stopped having a good time. The MC has extreme Not Like Other Girls syndrome and immediately starts ordering the dragon about. The plot (?) was also hard to track because the MC pivoted from one thought and one location to the next so fast I was worried about whiplash.
After making the dragon warm wash water so she can do laundry (the dragon that she was sacrificed to in the past 24 hours) she falls asleep naked only to wake up with a naked man groping her. A naked man she pretty much immediately assumes is the dragon. Who then turns back into a dragon and flies off with her. Which is when I gave up on the book.
I’m sure there is an audience out there for this book, but it definitely was not me.
I loved the premise of The Tinker’s Daughter—young woman is sacrificed to a dragon but instead allies with it to take down an evil sorcerer? Sold!
But that’s where I stopped having a good time. The MC has extreme Not Like Other Girls syndrome and immediately starts ordering the dragon about. The plot (?) was also hard to track because the MC pivoted from one thought and one location to the next so fast I was worried about whiplash.
After making the dragon warm wash water so she can do laundry (the dragon that she was sacrificed to in the past 24 hours) she falls asleep naked only to wake up with a naked man groping her. A naked man she pretty much immediately assumes is the dragon. Who then turns back into a dragon and flies off with her. Which is when I gave up on the book.
I’m sure there is an audience out there for this book, but it definitely was not me.
October 24, 2024
First, thank you NetGalley and the author for the advance copy of this book!
This was a fun, cozy and super cute read! It also managed to tackle some serious topics like sexism in a great way, showing that we're all equal in life. My only real complaint is that I wish there was more! I do hope we'll see them again given the ending, but either way, if you're looking for something quick, cozy and lighthearted, grab this.
This was a fun, cozy and super cute read! It also managed to tackle some serious topics like sexism in a great way, showing that we're all equal in life. My only real complaint is that I wish there was more! I do hope we'll see them again given the ending, but either way, if you're looking for something quick, cozy and lighthearted, grab this.
September 22, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me this e-ARC in exchange for a review.
Jonara, the tinker’s daughter, is “sacrificed” to a dragon by residents of her village afraid of his wrath. The dragon prefers fish to human flesh and joins Jonara in a quest to save Lucitopia from the clutches of the evil Asphodel.
This is a delightful cozy fantasy filled with humor and whimsy. I enjoyed my time in Lucitopia with the characters and would read more books in this series.
Jonara, the tinker’s daughter, is “sacrificed” to a dragon by residents of her village afraid of his wrath. The dragon prefers fish to human flesh and joins Jonara in a quest to save Lucitopia from the clutches of the evil Asphodel.
This is a delightful cozy fantasy filled with humor and whimsy. I enjoyed my time in Lucitopia with the characters and would read more books in this series.
December 5, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, Josephine Angelini, and the publisher for allowing me access to the e-Arc.
4.25 stars
This series is my type of cozy fantasy. There are a lot of things going on but also feels like a bedtime story. I liked this story. The dragon and the tinker's daughter are just perfect. Jonara is my favorite type of FMC. She is brilliant, strong, and stubborn. She cares and understands the people around her. I can’t wait to see what the next story will be in this series.
I highly recommend it!
✨ Cozy fantasy
✨ Dragon shifter
✨ Slow-burn romance
4.25 stars
This series is my type of cozy fantasy. There are a lot of things going on but also feels like a bedtime story. I liked this story. The dragon and the tinker's daughter are just perfect. Jonara is my favorite type of FMC. She is brilliant, strong, and stubborn. She cares and understands the people around her. I can’t wait to see what the next story will be in this series.
I highly recommend it!
✨ Cozy fantasy
✨ Dragon shifter
✨ Slow-burn romance
December 8, 2024
3.7 Stars
One Liner: A fluffy and light read
Jonara has been a good girl all her life, which makes her a perfect choice as the village’s sacrificial offering to the dragon. Luckily for her, the dragon doesn’t eat virgins. Using this chance and the dragon’s help, Jonara rallies an army to fight Asphodel who had been destroying one town after another to claim the throne vacated by the death king.
However, the dragon has its own secrets and Jonara could play a vital role. What does the future have in store for this feisty good girl?
The story comes in Jonara’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
I quite enjoyed the first book in the series, though I don’t remember much about the details. However, it’s not necessary. This works well as a standalone. The characters and the setting are different though the universe is the fantasy land of Lucitopia.
While book #1 was YA, this is NA bordering on adult fiction. The lead characters are twenty and above, and there’s a fair bit of… *ahem* Still, it is closed-door romance.
Jonara is quite a personality. She can order anyone around like a military commander. Is it any surprise that she plays a vital role in building an army to fight the villain?
The Dragon is a sweet guy but also a sort of confused alpha. I rather like him. Also, I wouldn’t mind having such a dragon of my own. Scratch him and get gold! I’d be rich in no time. ;)
The world-building is pretty basic but it doesn’t affect the reading experience. We can visualize the scenes as there is enough information.
The writing style is casual which may not work for everyone. Jonara’s instinct to boss around might annoy some readers. I wasn’t bothered since I expected something like that (based on my experience from book one).
A certain scene in the first half might put off some readers, especially if they haven’t guessed it would happen. I knew what to expect (it’s a trope-y thing, and there are enough clues) so I wasn’t the least bit surprised.
The ending provides a short glimpse into the future (as in what’s to come in the next books). I noticed book #4 added to the list and read the blurb. Do NOT do that.
The pacing is a little off in this one but I wasn’t bored at any point. The book was exactly what I wanted to remove the traces of annoyance at my previous read.
To summarize, The Tinker's Daughter is what a GR friend calls brain candy – it is fluffy, lighthearted, cheeky, a bit dangerous, and has a good dose of romance. Ready for book #3!
Thank you, NetGalley, Sungrazer Publishing, and Victory Editing Co-op, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheTinkersDaughter
One Liner: A fluffy and light read
Jonara has been a good girl all her life, which makes her a perfect choice as the village’s sacrificial offering to the dragon. Luckily for her, the dragon doesn’t eat virgins. Using this chance and the dragon’s help, Jonara rallies an army to fight Asphodel who had been destroying one town after another to claim the throne vacated by the death king.
However, the dragon has its own secrets and Jonara could play a vital role. What does the future have in store for this feisty good girl?
The story comes in Jonara’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
I quite enjoyed the first book in the series, though I don’t remember much about the details. However, it’s not necessary. This works well as a standalone. The characters and the setting are different though the universe is the fantasy land of Lucitopia.
While book #1 was YA, this is NA bordering on adult fiction. The lead characters are twenty and above, and there’s a fair bit of… *ahem* Still, it is closed-door romance.
Jonara is quite a personality. She can order anyone around like a military commander. Is it any surprise that she plays a vital role in building an army to fight the villain?
The Dragon is a sweet guy but also a sort of confused alpha. I rather like him. Also, I wouldn’t mind having such a dragon of my own. Scratch him and get gold! I’d be rich in no time. ;)
The world-building is pretty basic but it doesn’t affect the reading experience. We can visualize the scenes as there is enough information.
The writing style is casual which may not work for everyone. Jonara’s instinct to boss around might annoy some readers. I wasn’t bothered since I expected something like that (based on my experience from book one).
A certain scene in the first half might put off some readers, especially if they haven’t guessed it would happen. I knew what to expect (it’s a trope-y thing, and there are enough clues) so I wasn’t the least bit surprised.
The ending provides a short glimpse into the future (as in what’s to come in the next books). I noticed book #4 added to the list and read the blurb. Do NOT do that.
The pacing is a little off in this one but I wasn’t bored at any point. The book was exactly what I wanted to remove the traces of annoyance at my previous read.
To summarize, The Tinker's Daughter is what a GR friend calls brain candy – it is fluffy, lighthearted, cheeky, a bit dangerous, and has a good dose of romance. Ready for book #3!
Thank you, NetGalley, Sungrazer Publishing, and Victory Editing Co-op, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheTinkersDaughter
December 17, 2024
Jonara is being sacrificed to a dragon who supposedly eats virgins. This dragon though is a bit different and eats fish. They begin a quest, by gathering an army, to defeat Asphodel the evil sorcerer, who is destroying towns on his way south to get the crown. But the dragon has a secret that changes everything. What choice will be made?
The book gifts us with a friendly, cozy narrative that is warm-heartedly funny and full of the protagonist's dry wit. There is a straightforward and honest feel to the 1st person POV of this clearly excellent plan-maker, go-getter, kind-souled person. I can see everything happening, clear as day, thanks to the precise detailing that breathes wondrous life into the page as Jonara shares her ongoing story. A tale colored in whimsy — a full-blown adventure with so many exciting things going on but paced beautifully.
I love the melding of different known dragon and ultimately fairy tale traits and the author's take on them, structured by her creativity. That jaw-dropping reveal about Jonara and the dragon's situation is a game-changer. You have never read a story with a dragon such as this, believe me. I was so pleasantly surprised, so glad that they didn't put it in the synopsis, so I'm not spoiling it either. Every reader should have the opportunity of that feeling, as I'm sure the author intended.
You will adore the dragon. I smiled so much reading this my cheeks should hurt. There were plenty of times I wanted to hug him and a few of the other interesting characters.
There is a lesson here in kindness, in caring and helping others. How the world could be different if only we would implement them. And there are fierce female power vibes and respect. This is a story of valor, the power of companionship, of love, of good over evil.
The book gifts us with a friendly, cozy narrative that is warm-heartedly funny and full of the protagonist's dry wit. There is a straightforward and honest feel to the 1st person POV of this clearly excellent plan-maker, go-getter, kind-souled person. I can see everything happening, clear as day, thanks to the precise detailing that breathes wondrous life into the page as Jonara shares her ongoing story. A tale colored in whimsy — a full-blown adventure with so many exciting things going on but paced beautifully.
I love the melding of different known dragon and ultimately fairy tale traits and the author's take on them, structured by her creativity. That jaw-dropping reveal about Jonara and the dragon's situation is a game-changer. You have never read a story with a dragon such as this, believe me. I was so pleasantly surprised, so glad that they didn't put it in the synopsis, so I'm not spoiling it either. Every reader should have the opportunity of that feeling, as I'm sure the author intended.
You will adore the dragon. I smiled so much reading this my cheeks should hurt. There were plenty of times I wanted to hug him and a few of the other interesting characters.
There is a lesson here in kindness, in caring and helping others. How the world could be different if only we would implement them. And there are fierce female power vibes and respect. This is a story of valor, the power of companionship, of love, of good over evil.
October 11, 2024
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jonara, a tinker's daughter who is used to traveling around with her father, is sacrificed to a dragon. But she doesn't get eaten, and instead gets to help the dragon regain his memories and his identity, while also fighting an evil villain.
Here's the thing: I feel mislead by this blurb and the presentation. To me, a cozy fantasy is low stakes, more everyday matters, like retiring to open a magical coffee shop. Gathering an army to help your dragon boyfriend defeat the evil sorcerer who wants to be king is like... the opposite of cozy.
That doesn't mean this book was bad, but I don't think it is accurate to call it cozy fantasy, and I also didn't feel it was really unique in the fantasy genre. I hadn't read the other books in the series, so I didn't know about the framing story that was revealed towards the end, but it definitely explained some of the happenings and fairytale tropes used. I have mixed feelings about this twist: Dragon's jokes were kind of forced and cringy, but I liked the tinker's backstory.
Overall, this was a funny, charming fairytale story. Not bad, but not particularly great either, just okay. And not what I'd describe as cozy fantasy.
Jonara, a tinker's daughter who is used to traveling around with her father, is sacrificed to a dragon. But she doesn't get eaten, and instead gets to help the dragon regain his memories and his identity, while also fighting an evil villain.
Here's the thing: I feel mislead by this blurb and the presentation. To me, a cozy fantasy is low stakes, more everyday matters, like retiring to open a magical coffee shop. Gathering an army to help your dragon boyfriend defeat the evil sorcerer who wants to be king is like... the opposite of cozy.
That doesn't mean this book was bad, but I don't think it is accurate to call it cozy fantasy, and I also didn't feel it was really unique in the fantasy genre. I hadn't read the other books in the series, so I didn't know about the framing story that was revealed towards the end, but it definitely explained some of the happenings and fairytale tropes used. I have mixed feelings about this twist: Dragon's jokes were kind of forced and cringy, but I liked the tinker's backstory.
Overall, this was a funny, charming fairytale story. Not bad, but not particularly great either, just okay. And not what I'd describe as cozy fantasy.
December 3, 2024
I jumped at the chance to read and review this book when I saw it as an available option. If you love cozy fantasy, this may be a series you need to dive into. You do not need to read them in order and they really can stand on their own. The first book, Illustrated Girl happens in the same world as The Tinker's Daughter, but honestly, I didn't even link it in my mind until about 2/3 of the way through and a couple of things are revealed.
Jonara is a phenomenal and fun character. She wanders into the book thinking she's won a pig in the village lottery but is, instead, being sacrificed to the local dragon as the village believes they must sacrifice a virgin or the dragon will decimate their village.
Without getting into too many revealing spoilers, I will say the dragon is super cool and definitely doesn't enjoy eating virgins. He does, however, have a mission and Jonara is able to become in partner in a quest to defeat Asphodel, an evil sorcerer who has tormenting towns by stealing their names and almost removing their will to live.
There are secrets upon secrets which I hope you will stick around to read and find out. It's cozy fantasy more than romantasy but still, the bits about a crush and growing affections are super cute.
Jonara is a phenomenal and fun character. She wanders into the book thinking she's won a pig in the village lottery but is, instead, being sacrificed to the local dragon as the village believes they must sacrifice a virgin or the dragon will decimate their village.
Without getting into too many revealing spoilers, I will say the dragon is super cool and definitely doesn't enjoy eating virgins. He does, however, have a mission and Jonara is able to become in partner in a quest to defeat Asphodel, an evil sorcerer who has tormenting towns by stealing their names and almost removing their will to live.
There are secrets upon secrets which I hope you will stick around to read and find out. It's cozy fantasy more than romantasy but still, the bits about a crush and growing affections are super cute.
September 27, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, the author Josephine Angelini, and the publisher for providing the early copy for me to review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book was adorable! It was marketed as “cozy” fantasy but I’d consider it more “fairytale” fantasy as the stakes were higher than I prefer for a cozy read. I went into the book blind and had no idea it was part of a series so the plot twist was a bit surprising but it made sense. The FMC was hilarious and outspoken. She reminded me a bit of Evie from Assistant to the Villain and I adore them both. The Dragon was also so ridiculously cute! I was laughing and highlighting only a couple of pages in.
This book wasn’t a 4 course meal, it was dessert. Not a fancy dessert either. It was like a warm chocolate chip cookie or a slice of your favorite cake. It makes you smile and feel nostalgic. I love that feeling so it’s a 5 star read for me. It’s a perfect book to read between your heavy high stakes fantasy series, or to read on a relaxing weekend!
This book was adorable! It was marketed as “cozy” fantasy but I’d consider it more “fairytale” fantasy as the stakes were higher than I prefer for a cozy read. I went into the book blind and had no idea it was part of a series so the plot twist was a bit surprising but it made sense. The FMC was hilarious and outspoken. She reminded me a bit of Evie from Assistant to the Villain and I adore them both. The Dragon was also so ridiculously cute! I was laughing and highlighting only a couple of pages in.
This book wasn’t a 4 course meal, it was dessert. Not a fancy dessert either. It was like a warm chocolate chip cookie or a slice of your favorite cake. It makes you smile and feel nostalgic. I love that feeling so it’s a 5 star read for me. It’s a perfect book to read between your heavy high stakes fantasy series, or to read on a relaxing weekend!
November 24, 2024
4/5 ⭐️
While reading, this book at times reminded me of classic fairytales, Monty Python, George of the Jungle, and Howl’s Moving Castle. I know. A strange combination. But I recommend reading this for yourself to see what I mean.
This is another book I’m torn on how to rate it. Cause on one hand I loved. It was an adult story, but silly and light-hearted. I loved the characters. I loved all their interactions. However, I really wish this was longer. Like I understand after the final big plot twist why it wasn’t, but everything felt so rushed. Like all the plot points and development would normally had made up 3-6 thick fantasy books. And because of the speed there were some plot holes and lack of understanding for certain motivations. Or the motivations would’ve been understandable and packed a bigger punch if it had been allowed to simmer.
Overall, very enjoyable. I loved it. Again, loved the characters and the twists. I just wish it gave itself more time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing an advance reader copy of this book for my honest review.
While reading, this book at times reminded me of classic fairytales, Monty Python, George of the Jungle, and Howl’s Moving Castle. I know. A strange combination. But I recommend reading this for yourself to see what I mean.
This is another book I’m torn on how to rate it. Cause on one hand I loved. It was an adult story, but silly and light-hearted. I loved the characters. I loved all their interactions. However, I really wish this was longer. Like I understand after the final big plot twist why it wasn’t, but everything felt so rushed. Like all the plot points and development would normally had made up 3-6 thick fantasy books. And because of the speed there were some plot holes and lack of understanding for certain motivations. Or the motivations would’ve been understandable and packed a bigger punch if it had been allowed to simmer.
Overall, very enjoyable. I loved it. Again, loved the characters and the twists. I just wish it gave itself more time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing an advance reader copy of this book for my honest review.
December 12, 2024
I had no idea this was the second book in a series when I started reading, but it didn’t matter at all—it stands alone perfectly! In fact, not knowing the backstory of Lucitopia made the plot twists even more exciting. If you’re into cozy fantasy, this is a book (and a series) you’ll want to check out.
Jonara, the tinker’s daughter, is such a fantastic character. She’s funny, clever, and completely relatable. The story kicks off with her thinking she’s won a pig in her village’s lottery, only to find out she’s actually been “chosen” to be a sacrifice to a dragon. Lucky for her, this dragon doesn’t eat maidens. Instead, he’s got a mission of his own, and Jonara quickly teams up with him on a quest to stop the evil sorcerer Asphodel.
Asphodel is stealing townspeople’s names and their will to live, creating a dark and intriguing backdrop to this otherwise lighthearted story. I loved the mix of humor, adventure, and a touch of romance. The growing connection between Jonara and the dragon is adorable without being too much.
The writing hooked me right from the start with its humor (that never felt forced) and fast pace. The dialogue was sharp and witty, and the humor balanced perfectly with the emotional moments. If you need a break from heavy, high-stakes fantasy, The Tinker’s Daughter is the perfect choice. It’s funny, heartwarming, and full of surprises. I’ll definitely be reading the rest of the series!
Thanks to Sungrazer Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC—this one was a delightful find! All opinions are my own.
Jonara, the tinker’s daughter, is such a fantastic character. She’s funny, clever, and completely relatable. The story kicks off with her thinking she’s won a pig in her village’s lottery, only to find out she’s actually been “chosen” to be a sacrifice to a dragon. Lucky for her, this dragon doesn’t eat maidens. Instead, he’s got a mission of his own, and Jonara quickly teams up with him on a quest to stop the evil sorcerer Asphodel.
Asphodel is stealing townspeople’s names and their will to live, creating a dark and intriguing backdrop to this otherwise lighthearted story. I loved the mix of humor, adventure, and a touch of romance. The growing connection between Jonara and the dragon is adorable without being too much.
The writing hooked me right from the start with its humor (that never felt forced) and fast pace. The dialogue was sharp and witty, and the humor balanced perfectly with the emotional moments. If you need a break from heavy, high-stakes fantasy, The Tinker’s Daughter is the perfect choice. It’s funny, heartwarming, and full of surprises. I’ll definitely be reading the rest of the series!
Thanks to Sungrazer Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC—this one was a delightful find! All opinions are my own.
January 7, 2025
I love reading this series. It always leaves me with such a strong sense of nostalgia for those fantasy books I read and loved as a child. I find the Chronicles of Lucitopia to be compulsively readable, and often times find myself so completely immersed, I can’t put it down.
This book was no different for me!
I love learning more about Lucitopia and Asphodel as we go, but also that these books could totally be read as stand-alone stories. I feel like that could be really appealing for teens who might not want to commit to a full series, but are looking for a fun fantasy book.
I stick by what I said about book one in that these books are definitely aimed at older teens, as there are references to sex made, although nothing happens on page other than a few kisses, and seeing each other naked. This one had more mature themes than book one, especially since the characters are 20+ in this book, so just something to be wary of!
This book was no different for me!
I love learning more about Lucitopia and Asphodel as we go, but also that these books could totally be read as stand-alone stories. I feel like that could be really appealing for teens who might not want to commit to a full series, but are looking for a fun fantasy book.
I stick by what I said about book one in that these books are definitely aimed at older teens, as there are references to sex made, although nothing happens on page other than a few kisses, and seeing each other naked. This one had more mature themes than book one, especially since the characters are 20+ in this book, so just something to be wary of!
January 10, 2025
This book needs more hype because WOW! I was all in the entire time! Now, I need to visit other stories from this realm. I hope the author keeps writing more because it is so cozy! If you were a fan of fantasies and fairytales growing up (or still are), then this book needs to be added to your TBR! It reads like a new fairytale but has the humor and wit that keeps you entertained thanks to our heroine. She’s smart, cunning and not afraid to speak her mind. Little things she did like grinning at the enemy when she shocked him had me smiling along with her. I didn’t want this story to end! I only wish there was a spicy version of this story as well as a spicy version where our MC ends up with the bad guy because the banter there was BANTERING! Please read this book because it was well thought out, there were unexpected twists and it was extremely well-written!
Thank you to NetGalley, Josephine Angelini and Sungrazer Publishing for providing me with this ARC!
Thank you to NetGalley, Josephine Angelini and Sungrazer Publishing for providing me with this ARC!
November 1, 2024
This is the second book in a series but it stands well on its own. I really liked to premise of a virgin being sacrificed to the dragon instead getting the dragon to help her take down the evil sorcerer who is taking over the land. This was a nice read but I wouldn't really call it a "cozy fantasy" it's more of fairytale.
I did have some problems with the book though. The main character orders the dragon around like a pet and treats him at times like a pet which is really weird after we learn pretty early on that the dragon is in fact a human and remembers that he is a human. The dragon can even turn back into a human. so yup treating him like a pet was weird and a little uncomfortable.
speaking of uncomfortable my second problem with this book. There are moments in this book that I think are supposed to be funny? but just come off as creepy. As an example the main character at one point falls asleep and them wakes up to a naked man groping her. The man turns out to be the dragon and this is in fact how we find out that the dragon is human. I almost stopped reading at this point but kept going and did find stuff to like about the rest of the story but this is a problem that persists throughout the story.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC copy.
I did have some problems with the book though. The main character orders the dragon around like a pet and treats him at times like a pet which is really weird after we learn pretty early on that the dragon is in fact a human and remembers that he is a human. The dragon can even turn back into a human. so yup treating him like a pet was weird and a little uncomfortable.
speaking of uncomfortable my second problem with this book. There are moments in this book that I think are supposed to be funny? but just come off as creepy. As an example the main character at one point falls asleep and them wakes up to a naked man groping her. The man turns out to be the dragon and this is in fact how we find out that the dragon is human. I almost stopped reading at this point but kept going and did find stuff to like about the rest of the story but this is a problem that persists throughout the story.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC copy.
November 15, 2024
This cozy fantasy started off well enough. Gorgeous cover. Great premise. I was laughing my tush off at Jonara’s witty protests to being offered up as a virgin sacrifice to a dragon and getting Enchanted Forest Chronicles vibes. Unfortunately, that took a turn at Chapter 5, and I ultimately DNF at Chapter 6 (17%). While I don’t necessarily mind the dragon turning into a man, I do mind him groping Jonara while she was asleep. Jonara then fixating on how handsome he was and describing him “probably the most wonderful man I’ve ever met” immediately after was the deal-breaker for me.
I feel like the dragon staying a dragon might’ve made for a more compelling story.
Readers who don’t mind dubcon will likely enjoy this more than I did.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving this review.
I feel like the dragon staying a dragon might’ve made for a more compelling story.
Readers who don’t mind dubcon will likely enjoy this more than I did.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving this review.
December 17, 2024
4.5⭐️
I love this cozy fantasy series! While this is book 2 in the series, it can absolutely be read as a standalone. I read the whole thing in one night. I’m not always a fan of shifter romances, but I found myself really enjoying this one (probably because it was more of an emotional romance than a bunch of spice). The romance progressed pretty quickly but with the book being on the shorter side, it made sense. I love a book with dragons and this one delivered. You also get curses, amnesia, an array of magical creatures (fairies, elves, trolls, ogres, etc), a strong FMC, and witty banter galore.
I’m excited to continue this series and to see what characters and conflicts we get introduced to in book 3!
Thank you to NetGalley and Josephine for an eARC in exchange for my honest review!
I love this cozy fantasy series! While this is book 2 in the series, it can absolutely be read as a standalone. I read the whole thing in one night. I’m not always a fan of shifter romances, but I found myself really enjoying this one (probably because it was more of an emotional romance than a bunch of spice). The romance progressed pretty quickly but with the book being on the shorter side, it made sense. I love a book with dragons and this one delivered. You also get curses, amnesia, an array of magical creatures (fairies, elves, trolls, ogres, etc), a strong FMC, and witty banter galore.
I’m excited to continue this series and to see what characters and conflicts we get introduced to in book 3!
Thank you to NetGalley and Josephine for an eARC in exchange for my honest review!
February 16, 2023
I'm saying this every time, but it's because it's proven to me every time. Josephine Angelini only has hits, no misses. Every book she writes is a book I binge read, every book of hers is funny and emotional and well thought through. Every single time she manages to write characters I fall in love with. The female main character is so cool, the male main character is the sweetest.
I also loved exploring the world of Lucitopia a little more! I think I now kind of know in which direction it's going, but let's see, there are two stories left! (The books can be read independently by the way, you can start with any one of them.)
I also loved exploring the world of Lucitopia a little more! I think I now kind of know in which direction it's going, but let's see, there are two stories left! (The books can be read independently by the way, you can start with any one of them.)
October 14, 2024
I loved the first book in this series, and right from the first chapter of this installment, I was hooked again! It's fun and witty, setting quite the scene as the main character is taken to be sacrificed to a dragon—definitely not her idea of a good time! 😂 This cozy fantasy delivers just the right amount of action, featuring a clever and relatable protagonist along with a captivating magical story. While it can be enjoyed as a standalone, reading the first book adds delightful layers and extra moments to appreciate throughout the tale. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this enchanting adventure!
December 8, 2024
A delightful fantasy that reminded me of The Princess Bride with laugh out loud moments as well as some tense ones.. Although it is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone.
Jonara has won the lottery! Wonderful, her and her father can always use a pig or money, but wait, no she has actually won the opportunity to become a dragon's dinner. Not exactly something to celebrate. But as things turn out, maybe it is. Lots of tongue in cheek moments. Love Jonara, a girl not afraid to speak her mind and order a huge dragon around. A really delightful read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc to read and review.
Jonara has won the lottery! Wonderful, her and her father can always use a pig or money, but wait, no she has actually won the opportunity to become a dragon's dinner. Not exactly something to celebrate. But as things turn out, maybe it is. Lots of tongue in cheek moments. Love Jonara, a girl not afraid to speak her mind and order a huge dragon around. A really delightful read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc to read and review.
January 5, 2025
thank you netgalley for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.
the tinker‘s daughter is the second book in the series, which i didn’t know at first. it can be easily read as a standalone, as i was not confused about any of the plot points.
jonara is a truly likeable fmc that can fend for herself and is not described as a strikingly beautiful tiny sack of bones. that alone is worth 4 stars to me. the writing was fun, the mc was cute, the relationship adorable, the villain relatable. i hope we get to see a redemption arc for asphodel, as i kinda liked him :)
all in all this was a fun fantasy read that could be mostly described as cozy if it was a little more low-stakes.
the tinker‘s daughter is the second book in the series, which i didn’t know at first. it can be easily read as a standalone, as i was not confused about any of the plot points.
jonara is a truly likeable fmc that can fend for herself and is not described as a strikingly beautiful tiny sack of bones. that alone is worth 4 stars to me. the writing was fun, the mc was cute, the relationship adorable, the villain relatable. i hope we get to see a redemption arc for asphodel, as i kinda liked him :)
all in all this was a fun fantasy read that could be mostly described as cozy if it was a little more low-stakes.
September 14, 2024
I think that the word cute sums up this book.
Its definitely a fun, light and entertaining story and just cozy writing in general.
I loved that this book brought up sexism and proves that women are just as worthy!
My only issue was that i felt a bit disconnected when it came to the characters. I don't know if maybe i would have had more time to connecting with them if the story was a bit longer and less rushed?
Regardless of that i enjoyed reading this a lot.
Thank you Netgalley for this eARC in exchange of an honest review.
Its definitely a fun, light and entertaining story and just cozy writing in general.
I loved that this book brought up sexism and proves that women are just as worthy!
My only issue was that i felt a bit disconnected when it came to the characters. I don't know if maybe i would have had more time to connecting with them if the story was a bit longer and less rushed?
Regardless of that i enjoyed reading this a lot.
Thank you Netgalley for this eARC in exchange of an honest review.
October 2, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley and Sungrazer Publishing for this ARC!
I enjoyed reading this cozy fantasy. It was a quick read with characters that were easy to empathize with and relate to. I liked Dragon in particular, probably because he often felt more like a cat than a dragon.
If you're looking for a slow-burn romance, this is not it. If you're looking for detailed world-building and exciting plots with twists and turns, this is not it either. But if you're looking for a quick, easy-to-read cozy fantasy with fairly likable characters, then this might just be the book for you.
I enjoyed reading this cozy fantasy. It was a quick read with characters that were easy to empathize with and relate to. I liked Dragon in particular, probably because he often felt more like a cat than a dragon.
If you're looking for a slow-burn romance, this is not it. If you're looking for detailed world-building and exciting plots with twists and turns, this is not it either. But if you're looking for a quick, easy-to-read cozy fantasy with fairly likable characters, then this might just be the book for you.
October 27, 2024
This fantasy story made me smile from the first few words right to the end. This book was an unexpected treasure of a find. Easy read, fun, lots of humour in a fairytale story. Jonara doesn’t win a pig in a lottery as she had thought, no she wins something much bigger. The chance to befriend a dragon who thankfully doesn’t eat maidens, and an adventure because things are not at all as they seem. Thank you to Sungrazer Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
February 27, 2023
I'm so loving this series! I love the characters josephine creates and how charming they are. I also love that she brings up sexism! And proves thay women are just as worthy! Another thing josephine does great is her pop culture references. Usually I hate pop culture references in books but these ones in this book were used perfectly and the right amount of acceptable cringe because of Jonara's cluelessness.
September 20, 2024
This book was purely delightful. It hooked me from the very beginning with a gentle, fun humor that never stopped, and then grew from a cute little story into a gorgeous, interesting fairy tale with a very late twist I was NOT expecting!
The story was fast paced without seeming chaotic, and let me grow to like the characters as I went along. Overall, anyone who wants a cozy, fun little romantasy read will vastly enjoy this.
Thank you to Netgalley for my advanced reading copy!
The story was fast paced without seeming chaotic, and let me grow to like the characters as I went along. Overall, anyone who wants a cozy, fun little romantasy read will vastly enjoy this.
Thank you to Netgalley for my advanced reading copy!
dnf-d
November 23, 2024DNF @ 20%.
I thought the premise sounded really cool but I have yet to find a cozy fantasy that I loved, so maybe I am the problem. The beginning of this is unnecessarily crude in my opinion and other parts that I think they were supposed to be funny felt...creepy? It also seemed really strange to me that she was treating this dragon like a pet and ordering it around. Overall a miss for me.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
I thought the premise sounded really cool but I have yet to find a cozy fantasy that I loved, so maybe I am the problem. The beginning of this is unnecessarily crude in my opinion and other parts that I think they were supposed to be funny felt...creepy? It also seemed really strange to me that she was treating this dragon like a pet and ordering it around. Overall a miss for me.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
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