The Teller Of Small Fortunes by Julie Leong (book review).

Tao, the Teller of Small Fortunes (no spells, potions, or ancient prophecies), travels between villages in her waggon with only her mule for company. Tao exclusively deals with’small’ fortunes, such as the weather forecast for the next day, the location of a lost tunic, and the identity of the person who dented a borrowed pan. Large fortunes can be dangerous. If Tao uses too much magic, the mages guild would notice her and force her to serve the crown. She would prefer a solitary existence on the road with her meager earnings over that.

Tao joins the search for a missing child after a chance encounter with a somewhat retired thief and a mercenary, following what she initially believed to be an innocent vision. Then a baker joins the group, and suddenly Tao isn’t a lone traveler anymore. But Tao chose a lonely life for a reason, and the past is always ready to remind her why.

Hopepunk, a genre known for its characters who advocate for positive change and radical kindness, emerged as a direct contrast to grimdark and its depiction of violent amorality. ‘The Teller of Small Fortunes’ shares similarities with hopepunk, as its characters consistently strive for positive change and often achieve it. Their efforts are everyday, though, and Tao is actively avoiding any possibility of large change. This makes her much more relatable to us readers who are mere mortals and not mighty paladins of justice (mostly, if you are one, go forth!). That’s what adds a touch of coziness to the cozy fantasy—the depiction of people who are simply navigating their daily lives, yet choose to act with kindness and integrity. Would you read the alternative? Would you be interested in a narrative that depicts ordinary individuals carrying out their daily tasks and opting to behave in a disreputable manner? What is the cosy alternative to grimdark, petty fantasy? Uncomfortable fantasy? ‘Good Omens’ solely revolves around Crowley imposing a sinister aura on thousands of souls by blocking the phonelines. The entire book, not just a brief passage, captures the essence. The book doesn’t seem like something I would voluntarily choose to read.

This cozy fantasy is a lesson in the power of small, everyday acts that have a significant impact on the lives of those around you. ‘The Teller of Small Fortunes’ doesn’t use metaphor to educate the reader. It tells us. Tao is a Shinn, somewhat Asian, in a western fantasy land at a time of international conflict. There is no requirement for Tao to belong to a magical race and be considered an outsider. People are racist to Tao. Tao is a human being who comes from a distinct location. The reader doesn’t have to draw the conclusion that vampires are inherently gay or make any other mental leaps. It’s simple and right there. Racism and kindness can coexist side by side.

Small fortunes have their place just like big ones. Small kindnesses are just as important as big ones. It’s sweet; it’s simple. There are lessons, but they are actions that we, as ordinary mortals, can take immediately. If you enjoyed ‘Legends And Lattes’ by Travis Baldtree, consider giving this one a try, even though it doesn’t focus as much on building a fantasy coffee chain. If the recent dystopian themes of the 2020 pandemic, murder, hornets, and wars have been too much for you, this book will help bring things back to a level you can relate to. I hope there’s a sequel.

LK Richardson

August 2024

(pub: Ace/Penguin, 2024. 336 page paperback. Price: $19.00 (US). ISBN: 978-0-59381-591-5)

check out website: www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/744457/the-teller-of-small-fortunes-by-julie-leong/