Char Reviews ‘The Teller Of Small Fortunes’

‘Tis the season for warm and cozy fantasy books. This debut is like a warm cup of tea on a cold winter’s night. The Teller Of Small Fortunes, By Julie Leong, is a heartwarming tale of found family and amazing adventures, perfect for those cozy winter evenings.

Tao is a traveling fortune teller. She tells small fortunes as she travels through the small villages with her trusty mule. Only small things like when a calf will be born or if the barmaid will finally kiss her crush. Tao knows the consequences of telling a more significant fortune. So, as she travels, she comes across a semi-reformed thief and an ex-mercenary who help her during her travels.  Tao must face a more significant problem with her new companions: her past. Can she keep the life she’s created? Or will one person bring everything down around her? The book’s pacing is perfect, with just the right amount of action and quiet moments. And the plot twists will keep you on the edge of your seat.

This book is a testament to the power of personal growth. I was deeply moved by how Tao, once a girl who hid and stayed by herself, blossomed into a brave and confident individual. By the end of the book, Tao didn’t have to hide and really came into herself; not just her but everyone in her party ended up becoming more themselves. The relationship between Tao and her mother was beautifully written as well. I think every kid thinks their parents are a villain at some point in her life, and it’s only as we have been by ourselves that we see what they truly are: just people trying to survive. This book was the perfect cozy read with the snow and the holidays.