It’s nearly February, which means it’s almost love month! I’ve never really been into Valentine’s Day, but I’m making an effort this year to feel into the love spirit. I’m trying to add a few more romance-heavy books into the mix, starting with T.M. Mayfield’s cozy fantasy Dusted in Snowflakes.
| Title: Dusted in Snowflakes: A Halflings of Smallburrow Cozy Fantasy | Author: T.M. Mayfield |
| Release Date: February 1, 2024 | Genre: Cozy Fantasy |
| Publisher: Indie Published | Page Count: 104 |
Synopsis
After Kaida moved out of the farm and started her own bakery, she quickly realizes how lonely she is now that Eilaen isn’t at her side constantly. But when a newcomer named Elkhean comes into her shop, her cozy winter companionship may be closer than she thought. Will she be able to juggle the demands of her bakery while exploring her future with the dwarf of her dreams?
Review:
I read T.M. Mayfield’s Buried in Friendship back in the Fall and really enjoyed her cozy fantasy world. The Halflings of Smallburrow series follows best friends Eilaen and Kaida as they move to Smallburrow, begin new adventures, and meet new friends. If you’re looking for a low-stakes, cozy fantasy series to start, you should definitely try this one! Inspired by Dungeons & Dragons, Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Gilmore Girls, and Stardew Valley, the world is warm, inviting, and full of characters that you’ll want to get to know.
The first book in the series, Buried in Friendship, centered on Eilaen and didn’t end up being a romance book – though it is full of lots of platonic friendships. While I enjoyed Buried in Friendship a lot, there isn’t a romance in that story, and I knew a romance would fit in the world well. I was really excited to see that its sequel would have a romance for Kaida.
Dusted in Snowflakes was everything I hoped it would be! Its main character, halfling Kaida, has baking magic. If that sounds like the best magical ability ever, then you would absolutely be right. Kaida plans to open a bakery, but her building isn’t ready yet perfect. Almost everything in the store needs to be repaired. Fortunately, a handsome and capable dwarf contractor named Elkhean shows up ready to save the day. Kaida and Elkhean’s romance is adorable and sugary sweet. The friendships established in the first book aren’t neglected, though they take a back seat to Kaida’s bakery and romance. There’s magic, love, and plenty of helpful dwarves. Most importantly, there are cookies, muffins, and baked goods galore.
Final Thoughts:
If you are a fan of friendships, cozy fantasy, and sweet romance, you need to read the Smallburrow series! If you love strong men, fell for Thorin, Kili, and Fili when watching The Hobbit, and want to dream of owning a magical bakery, Dusted in Snowflakes is a must-read!
Rating: 4/5 stars
Thanks to the author for the advanced review copy! All thoughts are my own.
#COYER
Year of the Novella
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