In the prequel to last year’s hit cozy fantasy, Legends & Lattes, Travis Baldree takes us back to one of Viv, the mercenary orc’s early “adventures”.

In her younger days, Viv is eager to continue her battling ways despite convalescing from an injury sustained in a fight. To pass the time, she begins exploring the town’s struggling bookshop, eventually making friends with the proprietor, getting to know the local baker, and gathering together a team of misfits eager to make the bookshop successful again.

Just like in Legends & Lattes, not much adventuring happens in Bookshops & Bonedust. In fact, not much happens at all. But the sweetness of the characters and their desire to help each other, make this series very pleasant and comfortable to read. Like a favorite sweater in February, I’m sure I’ll be reaching for the next book in the series.