Tor serves up Can't Spell Treason Without Tea by Thorne

Tor has scooped Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea plus three other "cosy" fantasy books by Rebecca Thorne.

Publisher Bella Pagan acquired UK and British Commonwealth rights, excluding Canada, from Anna Carmichael at Abner Stein. Monique Patterson, v.p., editorial director for Tor US’s Bramble imprint, bought US rights from Taryn Fagerness at the Taryn Fagerness Agency.

Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea is described as "a gorgeous heart-warmer of a book, filled with cosy adventure, sapphic romance and good feelings. Here, all Reyna and Kianthe want is to open a cosy book shop that serves the best tea.

"But Reyna belongs to an elite sect guarding a vengeful queen – and Kianthe is the most powerful mage in existence. Leaving their lives behind seems impossible. Yet they flee to Tawney, a town nestled in the icy peaks of dragon country, and open the bookstore of their dreams.

"What follows is a tale of mishaps, mysteries, and a murderous queen throwing the realm’s biggest temper tantrum. And two women will discover what they mean to each other… and their world."

Thorne commented: “I am beyond excited to announce that Tor UK and Bramble acquired the Tomes & Tea series, starting with fan favourite Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea. This series was intended to show that it’s always possible to create lives of romance and quiet comfort, even in a chaotic world.

"We just need to be brave enough to claim the life we want! Tor has long been my dream publisher, and I’m thrilled that my badass lesbians have found such an incredible new home there.”

Pagan added: “I fell in love with this cosy warm-hearted tale from the first page. The delicious combination of peril, romance and tea (you can never have enough tea…) was bewitching in the best possible way. Treat yourself and bask in the warm glow of this book as you enjoy Rebecca’s wonderful writing.”

Patterson said: “Rebecca Thorne is an amazing new talent blending cozy fantasy with delightful romance in a way that is sure to make readers fall head over heels in love with the Tomes & Tea series. Prepare for adventures in life and love!”

Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea and A Pirate’s Life for Tea are both available to purchase in e-book from Tor UK who will publish the former book in hardback and other formats, with a new cover style, in spring 2024.