Rebecca Thorne: Can't Spell Treason Without Tea

 Hi everyone

Can't Spell Treason Without Tea is the first book in Rebecca Thorne's series Tomes & Teas. I read this on my e-reader.

"All Reyna and Kianthe want is to open a bookshop that serves tea. Worn wooden floors, plants on every table, firelight drifting between the rafters… all complemented by love and good company. Thing is, Reyna works as one of the Queen’s private guards, and Kianthe is the most powerful mage in existence. Leaving their lives isn’t so easy.
But after an assassin takes Reyna hostage, she decides she’s thoroughly done risking her life for a self-centered queen. Meanwhile, Kianthe has been waiting for a chance to flee responsibility–all the better that her girlfriend is on board. Together, they settle in Tawney, a town that boasts more dragons than people, and open the shop of their dreams.
What follows is a cozy tale of mishaps, mysteries, and a murderous queen throwing the realm’s biggest temper tantrum. In a story brimming with hurt/comfort and quiet fireside conversations, these two women will discover just what they mean to each other… and the world."

Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea was okay. The story, writing, and characters were very forgettable, which is a shame because the concept is so lovely. It’s an easy, low-stakes read, perfect for when you want something light and comforting, but it lacked depth.
The biggest issue for me was the drama. There’s so much emotional turmoil over things that don’t feel all that consequential, and the conflicts often felt manufactured rather than organic. I wanted more substance, whether in the characters’ relationships, the worldbuilding, or the plot,but it all felt a bit shallow.

If you’re looking for a cozy, feel-good fantasy with minimal stakes, this might be just the thing for a lazy afternoon. But if you’re hoping for something more memorable, you might come away disappointed.

Have you read Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea? Did you enjoy the cozy vibes, or did you find it forgettable too? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
Helena