Tales From The Cafe by Toshikazu Kawaguchi

Tales From The Cafe is the second book of the Before the Coffee Gets Cold series.

While the cafe is known for going back in time, it can also take you to the future. The stories of the visitors delve into the lives of diverse characters who find solace, connection, and unexpected moments of joy within the walls of the cozy café. Reading this book is like going back to this cafe to see some old friends, yet meet some new ones as I was enjoying my cup of coffee.

There are some unexpected reveals, one of the them being the woman in the dress is actually Kazu’s mother. That’s all the spoilers that I’m going to share. This caught me off guard because I never would’ve thought, especially the woman in the dress has been there the whole time since book one, and she’s an essential character of the whole plot, the whole time traveling experience even.

This second book continues to offer a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of human existence - the complexities of human relationships and the everyday moments that shape our lives. While each story presents a unique perspective on love, loss, and hope, each of them weaves a connection that transcends the boundaries of time and space. It’s a testament to the enduring power of community, compassion, and the simple joys that brings meaning to life. It has the strength to evoke a range of emotions, from nostalgia to laughter to introspection. You’ll find yourself immersed in the lives of the visitors, rooting for their triumphs and empathizing with their struggles.

Overall, Tales From The Cafe is another masterfully crafted short novel from the series. This is a short read that you can probably finish in one to two sittings, and it’ll surely leave a lasting impression in your life. Pick up a copy, grab a cup of coffee, and prepare to be swept away by the enchanting tales that unfold within the walls of this charming cafe.

By the way, I really appreciate the character map in the beginning. It really helped me recognise the characters again after a while since the first book, which if you need a revisit, you can go to my reading journal for Before The Coffee Gets Cold to refresh your memory.

Before the Coffee Gets Cold Series

1. Before The Coffee Gets Cold (2015)

2. Takes From The Cafe (2020)

3. Before Your Memory Fades (2022)

4. Before We Say Goodbye (2023)

The Series sequence is from left to right.