AUGUST 5, 2025
A maker of magical jewelry finds her life turned upside down when she ends up on the run with a half-giant in this spicy and cozy fantasy romance—perfect for fans of Legends & Lattes and The Spellshop.
Elikki may not have a family, but she has her fierce independence, boundless charm, and enough talent as a jewelry artisan to make a living on the road. Unfortunately for some, she also can’t yet manage to control her chaotic magic. . . and her temper. Sweet, soft Barra lives a quiet life with his mas and three sisters, managing the books for his family’s business. All he wants is to blend in and not make waves—a bit tricky, as a nearly eight-foot-tall purple half-giant.
When Elikki lands in hot water after dealing with a particularly rude customer, Barra finds himself helping her flee the constables. With a bounty on her back—and a severe crush forming on his end—they decide to travel together to the next town. So begins a journey filled with cozy inns, delicious meals, heaps of excellent sex, and a sprinkling of danger. As their adventures bring them closer together and the threat of capture rises they find themselves changing in surprising ways. He’s given up on finding love. She’s always refused to try. But traveling together, they may discover unexpected, powerful romance and stronger self-identities—if the bounty hunters don’t get them first.
"A sweet fantasy made of magic, spice, and everything nice."―Abby Jimenez, #1 New York Times bestselling author
"An unapologetically joyful story that will speak to anyone in need of assurance that they're both worth loving and capable of giving love in return."―Marshall J. Moore, author of Son of a Sailor
"Vale offers plenty of excitement and a surprisingly high level of heat, coupled with a welcoming queer-normative fantasy setting that feels familiar and comfortable. Readers should grab a cup of tea and sink right in."―Publishers Weekly
"Fans who enjoyed Legends & Lattes will want to check out this new fantasy romance that promises cozy love at its best. . . . A fair amount of sweet and a healthy dose of spice in this romance debut."―Book Riot
A charming, queer, cozy romantasy that features enigmatic characters, road-trip shenanigans, and spicy intimate scenes interwoven with themes of healing from past traumas and coming into your authentic self. Fans of Travis Baldree or Kimberly Lemming will enjoy.”—Booklist
"Readers can expect a quick, whirlwind romance with well-paced, steamy scenes between Elikki and Barra in this cozy fantasy debut. Hand to those who enjoy found family, forced proximity, and a hero who falls first."—Library Journal
"Elikki and Barra’s intimacy is tantalizingly written and immensely well-placed in a plot that will surely be devoured by any eager reader. The only change I would suggest is an appendix for the many mouthwatering recipes Vale writes so delicately about in this spicy and delicious romantasy."—Third Coast Review
