Published: 2023 | Genre: Romantasy | Pages: 352 | Rating: ★★★★☆
A Sip of Something Special
When I picked up A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal, I was craving a book that mixed adventure, romance, and a touch of magic. Let me tell you, this one delivered! Published in 2023, this romantasy gem pulls you into a gritty fantasy world where vampires roam, secrets brew, and a clever heist keeps you glued to the pages. If you love stories like Six of Crows or enjoy a good enemies-to-lovers vibe, this book is your next obsession. In this review, I’ll share why A Tempest of Tea is a must-read and who’ll fall head over heels for it.
What’s the Story About?
Set in the bustling city of White Roaring, A Tempest of Tea follows Arthie Casimir, a sharp-witted orphan who runs a tea shop by day and a secret speakeasy by night. Her shop, Spindrift, is a haven for humans and vampires alike, but trouble brews when a powerful figure threatens her business. To save her livelihood, Arthie assembles a ragtag crew for a daring heist to steal a magical artifact. Along the way, she teams up with Jin, her loyal partner-in-crime, and Flick, a posh newcomer who sparks tension—and maybe something more. Without giving spoilers, I’ll say the story blends high-stakes action, witty banter, and a slow-burn romance that’ll make your heart race.
What hit me hardest was the world Faizal builds. White Roaring feels alive, with its foggy streets and clashing cultures. The tea shop setting, inspired by South Asian flavors, adds a cozy yet dangerous vibe. As someone who loves a good chai, I could almost smell the spices wafting off the pages!
Why I Loved It
Faizal’s writing is like a warm hug—inviting and full of flavor. She paints vivid scenes without bogging you down, and her characters leap off the page. Arthie is a badass heroine, tough but flawed, and her chemistry with Flick crackles with tension. The heist plot keeps you guessing, with twists that had me gasping late into the night. I also appreciated the diversity—Arthie’s South Asian roots and the crew’s varied backgrounds make the story feel fresh and inclusive.
The book’s themes of loyalty and standing up to power resonated with me. In 2025, when we’re all navigating big changes, Arthie’s fight to protect her home feels relatable. Plus, the vampire lore adds a dark, sexy edge without overwhelming the story. It’s the perfect mix of heart, humor, and thrills.
Any Downsides?
A Tempest of Tea isn’t flawless. The first few chapters move slowly as you learn the world’s rules and meet the crew. I struggled to keep track of some side characters at first, but it clicked by chapter five. The romance, while swoony, takes a backseat to the heist, which might disappoint hardcore romance fans. Still, these are small hiccups in an otherwise stellar read.
Who Should Read It?
This book is perfect for fans of romantasy who love heists, found-family vibes, and slow-burn romance. If you devoured Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros or The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent, you’ll adore this. It’s great for readers who enjoy diverse characters and atmospheric settings, too. Teens and adults alike will eat it up, though some mild violence and steamy moments make it better for ages 14+. If you want a quick, action-packed read, you might find the world-building a tad heavy.
Why It Stands Out
A Tempest of Tea shines in a crowded romantasy market because it’s so unique. Faizal’s South Asian-inspired world feels like nothing else out there, and her vampires aren’t your typical sparkly types—they’re dangerous and complex. The book’s buzz on BookTok in 2025 shows it’s striking a chord with readers craving fresh voices. It’s also the start of a series, so there’s more to look forward to!
Final Verdict
A Tempest of Tea is a delicious blend of heist thrills, vampire drama, and heart-fluttering romance. Hafsah Faizal crafts a world you’ll want to live in, with characters who feel like friends by the end. I give it four out of five stars for its vibrant story and diverse cast, with a small dip for its slow start. If you’re ready for a wild ride through White Roaring, grab this book and a cup of tea—you won’t put it down.
Want to dive into this spicy heist? Get A Tempest of Tea at your local bookstore or check out Bookshop.org to support indie sellers. Have you read it? Drop your thoughts in the comments!