Book Review: Talismans, Teacups, and Trysts

Book #52 for 2025: Talismans, Teacups, and Trysts by K. Starling, 4.5/5 ★
270 pages / published July 2024 / available here

Goodreads blurb: Society insists that the life of an heiress ought to be consumed with dancing, polite conversation, and cards. The sadists! As Penelope Sedgewick would rather fly to Saturn's third moon than conform to society's whims, she became a sleuth, investigating private matters for ladies—thefts, missing domesticated dragons, stolen charms…the usual. Of course, it is all very hush-hush. Do try to keep it that way. When a routine inquiry into an elopement becomes derailed by a dead body (or two), and one dear to her is implicated, Penelope’s skills will be put to the test. With so much on the line, it will take a combination of her intelligence, magical abilities (Shhh! These are also secret), and marksmanship to protect that which she holds dear while shielding the innocent.

My review: Loads of recent books have been overly advertised as “cozy” when they simply aren’t – TT&T however, deserves the word. This Regency-era mystery is delightful and whimsical, but with enough action and stakes to keep it from being saccharine. And FINALLY a good, lighthearted fantasy with focus on friendship instead of romance! (I’m so tired of romantasy.) There are definitely moments where this feels a bit over-the-top, but it’s so fun and the characters are so loveable, I was happily along for the ride. There are quite a few society members to keep track of, but as far as criticism goes, I’ll take that in balance with an otherwise fantastic read. Moving straight on to book two!