The Teller of Small Fortunes by Julie Leong

Tao is an immigrant fortune teller, traveling between villages with just her trusty mule for company. She only tells "small" fortunes: whether it will hail next week; which boy the barmaid will kiss; when the cow will calve. She knows from bitter experience that big fortunes come with big consequences…

Even if it’s a lonely life, it’s better than the one she left behind. But a small fortune unexpectedly becomes something more when a (semi) reformed thief and an ex-mercenary recruit her into their desperate search for a lost child. Soon, they’re joined by a baker with a knead for adventure, and—of course—a slightly magical cat.

Tao sets down a new path with companions as big-hearted as her fortunes are small. But as she lowers her walls, the shadows of her past are closing in—and she’ll have to decide whether to risk everything to preserve the family she never thought she could have.

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The Teller of Small Fortunes by Julie Leong is a beautiful entry into the cozy fantasy genre that feels like being wrapped in a warm hug. The story follows Tao, an immigrant fortune teller who only predicts small fortunes to avoid big consequences. Her life takes a turn when a thief and an ex-mercenary recruit her to help find a lost child. Along the way, they're joined by a baker and a slightly magical cat, creating a charming and unlikely group of companions.

The strength of this book lies in its heartfelt exploration of found family, a theme that resonates deeply with me. The characters are distinct and wonderfully developed, each bringing out the best in one another. As they lower their defenses and form bonds, they create a sense of warmth and camaraderie that feels genuine and touching. There were moments where I found myself crying as the story struck just the right balance between big, emotional scenes and quiet, character-driven moments.

Julie Leong's writing is both tender and evocative, perfectly capturing the essence of these small yet meaningful interactions. The story’s pacing allows for a deep dive into each character’s personal journey while still maintaining a compelling plot. I felt every moment of Tao's struggle as she faced her past and the decision to risk everything for a future she never thought possible.

Both the UK and US cover images are stunning and capture the spirit of the book in different ways, enhancing the reading experience from the moment you pick it up. While I’d love to read more stories set in this enchanting world, I’d still be satisfied if this was the only tale we get to experience.

The Teller of Small Fortunes is a story about finding a family in the most unexpected places and learning to embrace the risk that comes with love and connection. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves cozy fantasy or simply enjoys stories that celebrate the power of human (and slightly magical) connection.

Recommendations: If you enjoyed The Teller of Small Fortunes, I recommend The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune, another heartwarming story with strong themes of found family and magic. For a movie recommendation, try The Magic of Ordinary Days, a Hallmark film that captures a similar warmth and focus on meaningful connections.

The Teller of Small Fortunes publishes on the 5th of November, 2024 in both the US (top image) and UK (lower image). I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.