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The Immortal Sorting #1
Orc Bought: An Orc Monster Romance
On the run from Fae slavers, the best chance of survival is to submit to the Immortal Sorting. I’ll be claimed by an Orc in exchange for protection. The price? A life of servitude. But Commander Uther Bachbracht, fearsome warrior with a hidden tenderness only for me, wants more than a concubine; I’m the woman he chooses to be his wife. My lies may jeopardize our future, but I have no choice but to trust his honor, no chance to rest before enemies find me. Either I’ll live by my Orc blade, or die by it, and the Commander is willing to kill to protect what he has claimed. ORC BOUGHT is a standalone steamy orc monster romance, for readers who like strong, protective, cinnamon roll heroes, bride auctions, pregnancy, post-apocalyptic alternate earth settings, magic and adventure, and morally gray worlds. Features a pragmatic but vulnerable heroine over thirty-five, a diverse cast, and some potentially sensitive content.
222 pages, Paperback
Published March 16, 2023
319 people are currently reading
478 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
June 27, 2023
This isn't really a smut book. (I know - shocking with a title like that. Dont get me wrong, there's spice but that definitely isn't the main goal.) Basically, a mother goes onto an auctioning block for the different fae, gargoyles, and orcs that can afford to buy up humans. She does it for her daughter when she realizes that she doesn't have the capabilities to allow her the education and home that her daughter deserves. There she meets an orc who steps in when one of the Fae presses a claim for her daughter because she has elemental powers. Romance ensues. 😍
Defne holds such a place in my heart. The real pull of this story is watching how fiercely she protects her daughter even when she knows that she'll have to sell herself to do so. It was just so amazing to read. And Uther was so willing to adore her and lay everything down for not only Defne but Elif too.
Defne holds such a place in my heart. The real pull of this story is watching how fiercely she protects her daughter even when she knows that she'll have to sell herself to do so. It was just so amazing to read. And Uther was so willing to adore her and lay everything down for not only Defne but Elif too.
December 27, 2023
2,0 ✨✨✨
November 3, 2023
Dark AF but had some tenderness
This was a grumpy x grumpy romance with a single mom who would do anything to ensure her child survived and was relatively safe. Defne’s backstory was tragic and shaped her into who she was. Her parenting style was definitely not all tenderness, but it’s hard to expect anything else when disobedience or naivety means death.
Mr Orc was an interesting character and I feel like we never really got to see behind the curtain. We see him in his current life situation and understand broadly that he has some power and influence. That’s about it. I also would have loved some more getting to know each other moments between the MCs, although much of that is implied to be happening off page.
Overall, well done and well paced book.
Spice: 3.5/5
Triggers: SA, slavery, starvation, kidnapping, murder, attempted murder, violence, gore, cheating (kinda, kiss with other character but unclear level of commitment), domestic sexual and physical abuse (off page), child SA discussed, child betrothed to man, cannibalism (off page, not MC), rape (off page)
This was a grumpy x grumpy romance with a single mom who would do anything to ensure her child survived and was relatively safe. Defne’s backstory was tragic and shaped her into who she was. Her parenting style was definitely not all tenderness, but it’s hard to expect anything else when disobedience or naivety means death.
Mr Orc was an interesting character and I feel like we never really got to see behind the curtain. We see him in his current life situation and understand broadly that he has some power and influence. That’s about it. I also would have loved some more getting to know each other moments between the MCs, although much of that is implied to be happening off page.
Overall, well done and well paced book.
Spice: 3.5/5
Triggers: SA, slavery, starvation, kidnapping, murder, attempted murder, violence, gore, cheating (kinda, kiss with other character but unclear level of commitment), domestic sexual and physical abuse (off page), child SA discussed, child betrothed to man, cannibalism (off page, not MC), rape (off page)
September 13, 2023
Ok I know what you are probably thinking seeing the cover and the title but this is absolutely not ridiculous alien smut ! This is the story of a strong woman protecting her daughter however she can. Now luckily an Orc spots her squaring up to a powerful Fae Lord and steps in . Defne isn't quite safe yet but Uther has decided she's his own to protect and trust me these Orcs are very different to what I imagined and all the better for it !
This is romance with a hero desperate for his woman to acknowledge they have something special. Yes he's tough (actually the Orcs are amazing in this) but he's an absolute sweetie who charmed me. A new author to me but one I will be seeking out again and a huge recommendation for hopeless romantic like myself.
This is romance with a hero desperate for his woman to acknowledge they have something special. Yes he's tough (actually the Orcs are amazing in this) but he's an absolute sweetie who charmed me. A new author to me but one I will be seeking out again and a huge recommendation for hopeless romantic like myself.
December 27, 2023
he was such a good mate 😭
April 13, 2024
Nope.
Nothing is said of this world. Not how harsh it is. Not that women only have 1 thing that gets them fed, shelter, and kept safe...ish. Because they're only a commodity. Breeding stock for any male, human or other. Human males sell their own family, and cannibalism is a thing. So, I really shouldn't have been surprised when the author sprung a full on, on page SA 35% in. Yet I was. Her child's human father r*pes her to get information on where the child is because he's already sold her and wants his payday. So, nope. This book started awful and went to full on disgusting. The blurb mentions cinnamon roll MC, but she's already met him, been kidnapped from him, and now r*ped by her ex, and we're supposed to what, just shrug it off and go, "awww, what a sweet story"? No. R*pe isn't romance. And trigger warnings need to be IN THE BLURB about that crap not hidden away or just vaguely hinted at. Which it wasn't at all. This author is to be avoided at all costs if you value your mental health. Authors who don't respect readers don't get respect in return. Warn people if you feel that r*pe "enhances" your so-called romance so well. Ugh. Disgusting. And this book isn't romance. Even without that nauseating scene. Slavery? Cannibalism? Humans who can't even trust each other, even family members? The casual mention of all beings not caring how old A child is before "breaking them in"- which is exactly what it sounds like. So no just women are being r*ped, kids are, too. And by supposedly advanced space faring beings who crashed there and instead of bringing advancements bring war, slavery, and a horrible caste system. A woman's only choice is selling herself to survive? Crushing on your protector, who enables (possibly even helped establish) a system that subjugates you, isn't romance. It's a f-ed up dystopian Stockholm prostitution syndrome. It can't be love. How the hell did this get so many stars?
Nothing is said of this world. Not how harsh it is. Not that women only have 1 thing that gets them fed, shelter, and kept safe...ish. Because they're only a commodity. Breeding stock for any male, human or other. Human males sell their own family, and cannibalism is a thing. So, I really shouldn't have been surprised when the author sprung a full on, on page SA 35% in. Yet I was. Her child's human father r*pes her to get information on where the child is because he's already sold her and wants his payday. So, nope. This book started awful and went to full on disgusting. The blurb mentions cinnamon roll MC, but she's already met him, been kidnapped from him, and now r*ped by her ex, and we're supposed to what, just shrug it off and go, "awww, what a sweet story"? No. R*pe isn't romance. And trigger warnings need to be IN THE BLURB about that crap not hidden away or just vaguely hinted at. Which it wasn't at all. This author is to be avoided at all costs if you value your mental health. Authors who don't respect readers don't get respect in return. Warn people if you feel that r*pe "enhances" your so-called romance so well. Ugh. Disgusting. And this book isn't romance. Even without that nauseating scene. Slavery? Cannibalism? Humans who can't even trust each other, even family members? The casual mention of all beings not caring how old A child is before "breaking them in"- which is exactly what it sounds like. So no just women are being r*ped, kids are, too. And by supposedly advanced space faring beings who crashed there and instead of bringing advancements bring war, slavery, and a horrible caste system. A woman's only choice is selling herself to survive? Crushing on your protector, who enables (possibly even helped establish) a system that subjugates you, isn't romance. It's a f-ed up dystopian Stockholm prostitution syndrome. It can't be love. How the hell did this get so many stars?
August 23, 2023
new beginnings
An awesome plot! It crabs you from the first to the last word! A desperate mother who will do anything to protect her daughter! Run, his, fight, even kill to keep her safe! An Or. who will protect what is his! Nothing will ever harm them again!
An awesome plot! It crabs you from the first to the last word! A desperate mother who will do anything to protect her daughter! Run, his, fight, even kill to keep her safe! An Or. who will protect what is his! Nothing will ever harm them again!
June 11, 2023
I regret not writing a review as soon as the book was published (when I immediately gorged it down), but, alas, I am here, now - even though the second book is on the brink of being published (but, #better late than never).
First of all, I am not even into orc-themed books, but I am into my queen Alisyn’s writing, so I’ll read absolutely anything she releases (her writing is THAT good, and mind you, I have just finished re-reading The Fae Prince of Everenne series for the THIRD TIME – and I do have a job, responsibilities and a Babel-sized tower of books to read, so taking all of that into consideration – her writing’s been that addictive.
Needless to say, this book rocked and I can’t wait to read the next one (while I painfully wait for the next one in the fae prince series.
March 26, 2024
There's something so very very off putting about the concept that Defne's a mother that has to give up the authority of her own child to the Orc that buys her, to the point that he dictates what Elif does and what will happen to her in the future. Paired with that off-putting point is the very icky concept that 6 year old Elif had an immortal fae stake a marriage claim on her, and Uthar allowed it because he had authority over Defne's daughter... just a very disgusting point to be made in the story.
Other than that, the storyline itself was very underwhelming. It focused more on Defne trying to seduce Uthar rather than the forementioned "running from slave traders" plot point that was meant to be the climax and was even important enough to mention in the novel's summary. Also, I just didn't find that there was any real connection between Defne and Uthar, so the story didn't have a "romantic/falling in love" vibe to it, but rather felt very much like settling for the best option and dealing. It wasn't cute, and felt very impersonal.
Over all, I don't recommend and I wasn't a fan of this at all.
Other than that, the storyline itself was very underwhelming. It focused more on Defne trying to seduce Uthar rather than the forementioned "running from slave traders" plot point that was meant to be the climax and was even important enough to mention in the novel's summary. Also, I just didn't find that there was any real connection between Defne and Uthar, so the story didn't have a "romantic/falling in love" vibe to it, but rather felt very much like settling for the best option and dealing. It wasn't cute, and felt very impersonal.
Over all, I don't recommend and I wasn't a fan of this at all.
May 7, 2023
lukewarm
defne's hopeless attitude and untrusting nature. throughout the entire book ruined this read for me. just wanted three consecutive pages when she wasn't being paranoid, bemoaning her pathetic existence or questioning uther's ability. uther's eloquence fluctuated strangely,and i don't know why. either you are fluent in a language or your aren't. the world building was incomplete, with a lot of the "orc way" alluded to,with no communication to the reader or defne about cultural norms. i liked the end,but it was not enough to make it a good read,in my opinion. the most interesting thing about the book was the fae lord and his future betrothed storyline.
defne's hopeless attitude and untrusting nature. throughout the entire book ruined this read for me. just wanted three consecutive pages when she wasn't being paranoid, bemoaning her pathetic existence or questioning uther's ability. uther's eloquence fluctuated strangely,and i don't know why. either you are fluent in a language or your aren't. the world building was incomplete, with a lot of the "orc way" alluded to,with no communication to the reader or defne about cultural norms. i liked the end,but it was not enough to make it a good read,in my opinion. the most interesting thing about the book was the fae lord and his future betrothed storyline.
March 20, 2023
Soooo.. barely any 🌶
August 19, 2024
So much fun!
August 15, 2024
4 Stars
“Eh, female? Say you want Orc. Here I am. You like look?”
New to me author and surprisingly this was really cute. Also very entertaining. I wasn't expecting much when I began this one but I enjoyed it so much. It had so much personality.
I really wish we could have gotten into Uthers POV more than just in the final chapter but I loved even just that one peek I to his mind. I loved him though.
Defne was hilarious throughout but also very strong and resilient to have survived everything she did. And she was the fiercest mother to her daughter.
I really loved how smitten Uther was with Defne from the beginning.
Overall it was a fun read, though I wish we had seen Defne tell Uther she loved him atleast once. Though I look forward to checking out more books by this author.
I'm going to need to stretch more because Uther is a big boy.
“Eh, female? Say you want Orc. Here I am. You like look?”
New to me author and surprisingly this was really cute. Also very entertaining. I wasn't expecting much when I began this one but I enjoyed it so much. It had so much personality.
I really wish we could have gotten into Uthers POV more than just in the final chapter but I loved even just that one peek I to his mind. I loved him though.
Defne was hilarious throughout but also very strong and resilient to have survived everything she did. And she was the fiercest mother to her daughter.
I really loved how smitten Uther was with Defne from the beginning.
Overall it was a fun read, though I wish we had seen Defne tell Uther she loved him atleast once. Though I look forward to checking out more books by this author.
I'm going to need to stretch more because Uther is a big boy.
August 30, 2023
badass FMC and super tough orc MMC who’s actually a cinnamon roll. so cute!!!! i’m obsessed with this story
January 2, 2025
amazing story
I couldn’t put this book down, I stayed up late most nights to finish it. What a wonderful story this was to read
I couldn’t put this book down, I stayed up late most nights to finish it. What a wonderful story this was to read
January 7, 2024
Decided to pick this one up and I was actually enjoying it a lot, some bits were very aww and others made me laugh but the grooming vibes turned me OFF big time. An adult already claiming a 6 year old a his future wife? Plain eww. I'm giving it 3 stars because if I try hard and ignore that bit, the rest was entertaining even if a bit(or LOT) dark here and there.
Btw
Those that have triggers should be careful before picking this one up
Btw
Those that have triggers should be careful before picking this one up
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2025
2 stars. I just couldn’t get into this book at all, the writing kept taking me out of the story.
I don’t know if you could tell through my synopsis, but I was not enthusiastic about this book. I would like to begin with the biggest issue I had with this book, which was Defne’s dialogue. For 90% of her dialogue, she spoke with great grammar. Most of her inner thoughts had great grammar. And then at odd points, she would revert to a more primitive, uneducated way of speaking and it just kept taking me out of the story. If you are going to make a character uneducated as a way to describe their difficult upbringing, then you have to commit. Otherwise, it’s extremely confusing and it just removed me from the story. The uneducated dialogue just didn’t work for me at all. It felt out of place. It is difficult to follow a story with someone who can have clear thoughts and intricate thoughts occasionally, but then they keep reverting back for no reason. Uther did the same thing. It was explained that older Orcs don’t speak using true grammar or clearly, but apparently whenever he really wants to make a point he can? This writing choice kind of ruined a big part of the book for me.
My next issue is that is felt contradictory. Defne didn’t want to be a concubine for the Fae, but was all in with Uther. Even when Uther wanted to wait and respect her, she kept pushing in order to trap him into their relationship. It was just confusing and so unromantic. There really was no romance. I got some romance from Uther because he wanted her to fit in and belong in their group, but somehow she fell in love with Uther? When? Because I must have missed the whole thing. Really, all that’s mentioned is that at one point he dances with other women and Defne gets jealous, but even then she says it’s because she’s worried that she and Elif will lose their protection. I just didn’t see the chemistry between the two.
There were other odd behaviors. After Defne kills Elif’s father, Elif is afraid of Defne, but Elif also supposedly knew her father was a bad man. And Elif had seen death before because Defne thought it would be good for her to see that stuff because life is scary. So, why would Elif be afraid and why would Defne just accept that? Also, at one point, Defne is challenged by another Orc woman named Ilotha, who is supposedly challenging Defne from a stance of jealousy that Uther picked her instead of another woman in the group, but Ilotha is a lesbian and she’s life partners with Ratha? So why did Ilotha challenge her? It doesn’t make sense to me.
I just didn’t get any romance from this book. I got more of an odd dystopian future society that has become more primitive due to the immortal races coming in and taking over. Defne doesn’t seem like she’s even attracted to Uther. It is continuously described as Defne wants him because she wants to trap him into protecting her forever. Defne also has extreme trust issues that color literally every part of the book and really doesn’t go away. I did like that it appeared to be a matriarchal society, but Defne’s thoughts and ideas felt very anti-feminist. This book felt like it was a couple steps forward for feminism, but also a couple of steps backwards. This type of contradiction was very prevalent throughout the book, and I believe this is why I struggled with the story. I also really needed more romance. I got a little from Uther and none from Defne and it just kind of didn’t work for me. Also, why is Elif betrothed? She's six. Let's be so for real.
I don’t know if you could tell through my synopsis, but I was not enthusiastic about this book. I would like to begin with the biggest issue I had with this book, which was Defne’s dialogue. For 90% of her dialogue, she spoke with great grammar. Most of her inner thoughts had great grammar. And then at odd points, she would revert to a more primitive, uneducated way of speaking and it just kept taking me out of the story. If you are going to make a character uneducated as a way to describe their difficult upbringing, then you have to commit. Otherwise, it’s extremely confusing and it just removed me from the story. The uneducated dialogue just didn’t work for me at all. It felt out of place. It is difficult to follow a story with someone who can have clear thoughts and intricate thoughts occasionally, but then they keep reverting back for no reason. Uther did the same thing. It was explained that older Orcs don’t speak using true grammar or clearly, but apparently whenever he really wants to make a point he can? This writing choice kind of ruined a big part of the book for me.
My next issue is that is felt contradictory. Defne didn’t want to be a concubine for the Fae, but was all in with Uther. Even when Uther wanted to wait and respect her, she kept pushing in order to trap him into their relationship. It was just confusing and so unromantic. There really was no romance. I got some romance from Uther because he wanted her to fit in and belong in their group, but somehow she fell in love with Uther? When? Because I must have missed the whole thing. Really, all that’s mentioned is that at one point he dances with other women and Defne gets jealous, but even then she says it’s because she’s worried that she and Elif will lose their protection. I just didn’t see the chemistry between the two.
There were other odd behaviors. After Defne kills Elif’s father, Elif is afraid of Defne, but Elif also supposedly knew her father was a bad man. And Elif had seen death before because Defne thought it would be good for her to see that stuff because life is scary. So, why would Elif be afraid and why would Defne just accept that? Also, at one point, Defne is challenged by another Orc woman named Ilotha, who is supposedly challenging Defne from a stance of jealousy that Uther picked her instead of another woman in the group, but Ilotha is a lesbian and she’s life partners with Ratha? So why did Ilotha challenge her? It doesn’t make sense to me.
I just didn’t get any romance from this book. I got more of an odd dystopian future society that has become more primitive due to the immortal races coming in and taking over. Defne doesn’t seem like she’s even attracted to Uther. It is continuously described as Defne wants him because she wants to trap him into protecting her forever. Defne also has extreme trust issues that color literally every part of the book and really doesn’t go away. I did like that it appeared to be a matriarchal society, but Defne’s thoughts and ideas felt very anti-feminist. This book felt like it was a couple steps forward for feminism, but also a couple of steps backwards. This type of contradiction was very prevalent throughout the book, and I believe this is why I struggled with the story. I also really needed more romance. I got a little from Uther and none from Defne and it just kind of didn’t work for me. Also, why is Elif betrothed? She's six. Let's be so for real.
May 15, 2023
A little different
I liked this one. Loved Defne. Though written too simply, it sparkled. Easily could've been 100 pages more, descriptions were few and far and only some of the characters were given any real personalities, the rest were generalized. The writer only gave us the highlights of both the h and H's lives and very little of their day to day.... Shame, because fleshed out it would've been a 5 star, easily. Even so I will probably look for more by this author.
I liked this one. Loved Defne. Though written too simply, it sparkled. Easily could've been 100 pages more, descriptions were few and far and only some of the characters were given any real personalities, the rest were generalized. The writer only gave us the highlights of both the h and H's lives and very little of their day to day.... Shame, because fleshed out it would've been a 5 star, easily. Even so I will probably look for more by this author.
April 1, 2024
Quick and Entertaining!
If you’re looking for a romantasy, this is a solid one 😊 Interesting world concept and cared about the characters. Would be really interested in another book or two about the family formed in this first book and what happens with the daughter. I’ll keep an eye out!! Of course there is a HEA 😉
If you’re looking for a romantasy, this is a solid one 😊 Interesting world concept and cared about the characters. Would be really interested in another book or two about the family formed in this first book and what happens with the daughter. I’ll keep an eye out!! Of course there is a HEA 😉
October 19, 2023
Orc Bought by Alison Fae kicks off The Immortal Sorting series, initially presenting what seems like a classic Orc-Romance setup with familiar tropes such as Arranged Marriages, Auctions, and Forced Proximity – because, after all, orcs can't seem to find mates in any other way, can they?
However, the story takes a surprising turn as it unfolds. Defne, left with no other choices, finds herself at the 'Sorting,' a system where various races of Gaithea purchase humans for various reasons. She's on the block solely to secure an Orc Protector who can keep her and her daughter, Elif, safe.
Uther, the commander of an Orcish Clan, snatches her and Elif up, and off they go to their new home where challenges await.
Orc Bought offers an intriguing read in several ways. The writing style is distinctive, with a clipped and choppy quality that immerses us directly in Defne's perspective. Her unique voice carries through the book, offering insights into her thoughts, fears, and paranoia. As a female lead, Defne proves fascinating to follow, with her unwavering determination to protect her daughter while navigating her evolving role in the world of Gaithea. It's also refreshing to encounter a more mature romance in terms of the characters' age; these are not youthful characters, which adds depth to the story.
In the latter half of the book, the author makes a commendable effort to explore orcish culture, offering insights into their customs and way of life. However, there's still room for more extensive world-building. While we learn about the arrival of the Immortal Races in this world, the narrative could benefit from additional details about the world's origins, regions, and interactions between races. It is my hope that future books in the series will provide a more comprehensive view of the world, enriching the reader's experience and adding depth to this unique take on Orc Romance.
Orc Bought isn't your typical romantic, lovey-dovey tale. It's raw and fast-paced and, perhaps strangely, somewhat frustrating. The sparks of passion are present, but they don't run deep enough to classify it as a truly spicy read. Nor does it stick to the closed-door approach. The evolution of Defne and Uther's relationship is complex; she begins as a concubine and gradually earns her place in the clan. However, there's a sense that love isn't the central theme here. Defne appears to be using Uther as a means to survive the harsh world, and Uther, on the other hand, comes across as driven by a savior complex.
Despite these complexities, I found this unconventional take on Orc Romance quite enjoyable. I'm eagerly anticipating the next book in the series, Orc Bound, which can be read as a standalone.
However, the story takes a surprising turn as it unfolds. Defne, left with no other choices, finds herself at the 'Sorting,' a system where various races of Gaithea purchase humans for various reasons. She's on the block solely to secure an Orc Protector who can keep her and her daughter, Elif, safe.
Uther, the commander of an Orcish Clan, snatches her and Elif up, and off they go to their new home where challenges await.
Orc Bought offers an intriguing read in several ways. The writing style is distinctive, with a clipped and choppy quality that immerses us directly in Defne's perspective. Her unique voice carries through the book, offering insights into her thoughts, fears, and paranoia. As a female lead, Defne proves fascinating to follow, with her unwavering determination to protect her daughter while navigating her evolving role in the world of Gaithea. It's also refreshing to encounter a more mature romance in terms of the characters' age; these are not youthful characters, which adds depth to the story.
In the latter half of the book, the author makes a commendable effort to explore orcish culture, offering insights into their customs and way of life. However, there's still room for more extensive world-building. While we learn about the arrival of the Immortal Races in this world, the narrative could benefit from additional details about the world's origins, regions, and interactions between races. It is my hope that future books in the series will provide a more comprehensive view of the world, enriching the reader's experience and adding depth to this unique take on Orc Romance.
Orc Bought isn't your typical romantic, lovey-dovey tale. It's raw and fast-paced and, perhaps strangely, somewhat frustrating. The sparks of passion are present, but they don't run deep enough to classify it as a truly spicy read. Nor does it stick to the closed-door approach. The evolution of Defne and Uther's relationship is complex; she begins as a concubine and gradually earns her place in the clan. However, there's a sense that love isn't the central theme here. Defne appears to be using Uther as a means to survive the harsh world, and Uther, on the other hand, comes across as driven by a savior complex.
Despite these complexities, I found this unconventional take on Orc Romance quite enjoyable. I'm eagerly anticipating the next book in the series, Orc Bound, which can be read as a standalone.
December 27, 2023
A very quick read that focuses on this new planet (close to earth, but not on it) that had fae, orcs, etc. crash land on it which caused a massive war years ago and since has led to the immortals mostly ruling over the lowly humans with some humans living outside their rule but in brutal conditions without much food to eat and survive. Defne is a mostly human woman as it’s now 100+ years since the great war and is on the run with her 6-yr old child hiding from her ex who sold their baby to a fae slaver as their child shows signs of being a strong water elemental fae. She decides that instead of being on the run and starving, she’ll put herself into the ‘sorting’ which is like a way for immortals to purchase humans as either slaves/workers, concubines, etc. Which is where her and her child is picked up by Uther, a gen 1 orc commander. She’s brought back to his home and learns to settle into her new orc community.
The world building was interesting — I thought it had legs, but ultimately was a bit shallow since this is a short-ish book. I thought her getting settled into the orc community and learning their rituals was interesting too. Defne is a hard woman as she’s learned to be that way to protect her daughter and the rough upbringing she had. She was a strong heroine thought that I enjoyed. Uther was pretty quickly in love with her which I wish we got more buildup, instead it was just that he wanted to finally settle down and thought she’d make a good mate when he sees her at the sorting; after only a few days traveling back to his home he’s already told her he loves her which was just too fast. Still, this one gets 3 stars as the world was entertaining and the fast pace story kept my interest ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The world building was interesting — I thought it had legs, but ultimately was a bit shallow since this is a short-ish book. I thought her getting settled into the orc community and learning their rituals was interesting too. Defne is a hard woman as she’s learned to be that way to protect her daughter and the rough upbringing she had. She was a strong heroine thought that I enjoyed. Uther was pretty quickly in love with her which I wish we got more buildup, instead it was just that he wanted to finally settle down and thought she’d make a good mate when he sees her at the sorting; after only a few days traveling back to his home he’s already told her he loves her which was just too fast. Still, this one gets 3 stars as the world was entertaining and the fast pace story kept my interest ⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 15, 2025
4 Stars – A Wholesome and Surprising Orc Romance
Wait a minute. Wait a dang minute. I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did! At just over 200 pages, I was blown away by how well Alisyn Fae crafted a story that felt wholesome and fully developed without feeling rushed. This was my first read from this author, and I have to say—I’m impressed.
This book had all the things we love about orcs: protectiveness, found family, and respect. One thing that stood out to me was how well the author portrayed gender roles in orc society. Many orc books mention a matriarchal structure or female equality, but here, it wasn’t just a passing comment—it was woven into the FMC’s lived experience, which I really appreciated.
The FMC was refreshingly unique—40 years old and a mother, which added real depth to her decisions. She wasn’t just making choices for herself; she was weighing everything with the kind of perspective that only comes from experience. I also liked that while her daughter wasn’t a major focus, her presence added another layer to the FMC’s journey (and I wouldn’t be surprised if she gets her own book someday).
Now, let’s talk about the MMC. He was sweet, but not in an overly doting or cheesy way. He was stable, patient, and respectful of boundaries, which made him incredibly endearing. And of course, it wouldn’t be an orc romance without muscles—though that wasn’t the main focus, and honestly, it didn’t take anything away from the story.
I love plot-heavy books with strong character development, a solid story arc, and a little spice. This book gave me one and a half of those things—character development with just a sprinkle of spice—and yet, it still managed to be a great read.
Will I be reading the next one? Oh heck yes.
Wait a minute. Wait a dang minute. I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did! At just over 200 pages, I was blown away by how well Alisyn Fae crafted a story that felt wholesome and fully developed without feeling rushed. This was my first read from this author, and I have to say—I’m impressed.
This book had all the things we love about orcs: protectiveness, found family, and respect. One thing that stood out to me was how well the author portrayed gender roles in orc society. Many orc books mention a matriarchal structure or female equality, but here, it wasn’t just a passing comment—it was woven into the FMC’s lived experience, which I really appreciated.
The FMC was refreshingly unique—40 years old and a mother, which added real depth to her decisions. She wasn’t just making choices for herself; she was weighing everything with the kind of perspective that only comes from experience. I also liked that while her daughter wasn’t a major focus, her presence added another layer to the FMC’s journey (and I wouldn’t be surprised if she gets her own book someday).
Now, let’s talk about the MMC. He was sweet, but not in an overly doting or cheesy way. He was stable, patient, and respectful of boundaries, which made him incredibly endearing. And of course, it wouldn’t be an orc romance without muscles—though that wasn’t the main focus, and honestly, it didn’t take anything away from the story.
I love plot-heavy books with strong character development, a solid story arc, and a little spice. This book gave me one and a half of those things—character development with just a sprinkle of spice—and yet, it still managed to be a great read.
Will I be reading the next one? Oh heck yes.
February 18, 2025
The premise was interesting, but the story fell short for me. You do have to adjust to the language used as well, it is grammatically rough most of the time both from the FMC who is human and the MMC who is an orc. He'll randomly use better language when he wants to make sure he gets his point across, but that's it.
No explanation how the world came to be this way, just that it is now run by various magical races such as Fae, Orcs, and Gargoyles. I'm assuming it's supposed to be some sort of post-apocalyptic USA because she references wood from the Pacific Northwest but nothing about buildings. There is mention of super advanced technology being used by the gargoyles and rare refurbished guns some humans own, but otherwise it's bows and arrows. Humans also apparently live to be 180 without intervention? Women are treated as property and breeders who can either willingly contract themselves out if chosen by a magical species or sold by other humans.
Elif is 6 and catches the eye of a Fae lord and Defne's new orc master is fine with him grooming her to be his future bride. When Defne finds out she is ok with it almost immediately after spending the first half of the book saying how horrible the fae are.
Defne also isn't told anything about orc culture and doesn't ask any questions about it, just complains about how she doesn't understand anything and how her attempts to seduce Uther keep failing. Her "lies" are resolved right after he contracts her which is fine, but the summary made it sound like it was a main point of the book. Also very little relationship building when the summary again made it sound like this was a key aspect. I don't know that I would call him a "cinnamon roll hero" either.
No explanation how the world came to be this way, just that it is now run by various magical races such as Fae, Orcs, and Gargoyles. I'm assuming it's supposed to be some sort of post-apocalyptic USA because she references wood from the Pacific Northwest but nothing about buildings. There is mention of super advanced technology being used by the gargoyles and rare refurbished guns some humans own, but otherwise it's bows and arrows. Humans also apparently live to be 180 without intervention? Women are treated as property and breeders who can either willingly contract themselves out if chosen by a magical species or sold by other humans.
Elif is 6 and catches the eye of a Fae lord and Defne's new orc master is fine with him grooming her to be his future bride. When Defne finds out she is ok with it almost immediately after spending the first half of the book saying how horrible the fae are.
Defne also isn't told anything about orc culture and doesn't ask any questions about it, just complains about how she doesn't understand anything and how her attempts to seduce Uther keep failing. Her "lies" are resolved right after he contracts her which is fine, but the summary made it sound like it was a main point of the book. Also very little relationship building when the summary again made it sound like this was a key aspect. I don't know that I would call him a "cinnamon roll hero" either.
June 13, 2024
5% in and I can't stand it. I considered not leaving a star review since I didn't get far in the book at all, but it annoyed me considerably.
The book is left aligned, which was extremely aggravating for me to read. Perhaps because I've never read a book oriented that way in the 20 years I've been able to read. I would have pushed through and did my best to ignore it had the story been the least bit captivating.
It's written in first person, and to me a lot of detail is lost from that perspective or just sounds odd (in general, not just with this book). Like when the FMC is describing herself. The FMC is illiterate and uneducated, and uses words like 'bristle' in regard to a feeling. That discrepancy jumped out at me immediately because it seems unlikely that would be a word she would know or use. Word usage outside of what her likely vocabulary would be makes a lot more sense in third person, as an unseen narrator describes everything going on. I noticed it again when she said 'anomaly' but would switch back to the grammar expected of an uneducated person.
I have no clue what anything or anyone really looks like other than it's really overgrown and the humans are all varying degrees of frail due to starving. Hardly an descriptors means I can't get into a good flow and 'watch the movie' in my head as I read. To me it feels lazy, like the author didn't even care enough to flesh out details before it launches into the trials and tribulations of the FMC.
Had to call it and quit because I doubt this book would improve much if it bothered me this much out of the gate.
The book is left aligned, which was extremely aggravating for me to read. Perhaps because I've never read a book oriented that way in the 20 years I've been able to read. I would have pushed through and did my best to ignore it had the story been the least bit captivating.
It's written in first person, and to me a lot of detail is lost from that perspective or just sounds odd (in general, not just with this book). Like when the FMC is describing herself. The FMC is illiterate and uneducated, and uses words like 'bristle' in regard to a feeling. That discrepancy jumped out at me immediately because it seems unlikely that would be a word she would know or use. Word usage outside of what her likely vocabulary would be makes a lot more sense in third person, as an unseen narrator describes everything going on. I noticed it again when she said 'anomaly' but would switch back to the grammar expected of an uneducated person.
I have no clue what anything or anyone really looks like other than it's really overgrown and the humans are all varying degrees of frail due to starving. Hardly an descriptors means I can't get into a good flow and 'watch the movie' in my head as I read. To me it feels lazy, like the author didn't even care enough to flesh out details before it launches into the trials and tribulations of the FMC.
Had to call it and quit because I doubt this book would improve much if it bothered me this much out of the gate.
April 18, 2023
Defne is on the run from her ex she is human and had to escape when the man she had her daughter with sold her to Fae slavers both her and her 6yr old daughter Elif are going to the sorting its her only chance to find and ORC protector. The sorting is a gathering of allot of different species some worse then others but when a Fae become interested in her daughter she will fight to the death lucky for her Commander Uther is looking for a wife and he admires her strength he offers safety and protection for
her and Elif but there agreement will be tested when Defne's ex catches up with them.
This is a first time ORC read for me and the second by the this author it was funny at times and dark at other times the ORC are primitive but there culture is almost Viking in nature. Both Defne and Uther need something from each other Defne will finally find safty,friends and a love she didn't think existed. Uther is finally ready to settle down he has found a strong female to give him strong baby's and he easily falls in love with Defne from the moment he sees her he admires her strength and likes her even when she argues with him there is a slow build up to there physically romance but allot of heated moments that lead up to a heated wedding night I'm curious enough in this authors writing style that I would read another book in this series.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Wolf Pack Reads and this is my honest review.
her and Elif but there agreement will be tested when Defne's ex catches up with them.
This is a first time ORC read for me and the second by the this author it was funny at times and dark at other times the ORC are primitive but there culture is almost Viking in nature. Both Defne and Uther need something from each other Defne will finally find safty,friends and a love she didn't think existed. Uther is finally ready to settle down he has found a strong female to give him strong baby's and he easily falls in love with Defne from the moment he sees her he admires her strength and likes her even when she argues with him there is a slow build up to there physically romance but allot of heated moments that lead up to a heated wedding night I'm curious enough in this authors writing style that I would read another book in this series.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Wolf Pack Reads and this is my honest review.
October 2, 2023
Orc Bought is an engaging read set in an often bleak world. Humans are at the bottom of the barrel, while Fae, Orc, and Gargoyle are at the top. Defne is a badass human mother willing to do anything to protect her young daughter, including auctioning herself to an Orc. Uther is a former Orc commander who instantly becomes smitten with Defne. After signing a contract together, Uther takes Defne and her young daughter (whom he has all but adopted as his own) to his village to live. There, Defne learns what it means to be indoctrinated into Orc society with all its strange customs and beliefs.
This was a great read. I highly enjoyed learning about how the Orcs live and just how far Defne would go to become one of them. The only thing holding me back from giving it a five-star rating was Defne's insecurity—despite Uther's love for her. It seemed like she was just with Uther for protection and security, not genuine love. She even went so far as to seek out another Orc male just in case Uther got bored with her! Even when she
But despite that, I still enjoyed this one.
A fascinating story with even more fascinating characters. 4.35 stars.
This was a great read. I highly enjoyed learning about how the Orcs live and just how far Defne would go to become one of them. The only thing holding me back from giving it a five-star rating was Defne's insecurity—despite Uther's love for her. It seemed like she was just with Uther for protection and security, not genuine love. She even went so far as to seek out another Orc male just in case Uther got bored with her! Even when she
But despite that, I still enjoyed this one.
A fascinating story with even more fascinating characters. 4.35 stars.
March 19, 2023
I read this book in no time. My only complaint is the switching between what I will call 'good' English and 'colloquial' English. It sometimes seemed randomly applied.
Defne and her young daughter Elif are on the run from Elif's father who tried to sell the girl to slavers because of her Fae abilities. Defne is heading for the Sorting which will mean she ends up being owned by an Orc, but Elif would be safe. When a Fae lord expresses an interest in her daughter, Defne pulls a weapon to defend her and this draws an Orc's attention. Uther is one of the original Orc commanders and he is impressed by the woman's courage and ferociousness. As she is marked as wanting an Orc master, he staves off the Fae's claim and asks if she is agreeable to going with him and becoming his wife. After some consideration, she agrees. But there is danger on her tail and she can only hope that Uther means what he says when he promises to protect her and Elif. There is also the little problem that Defne did not easily trust - and that is what she will need to do it she wants all Uther has to offer.
Hope there is more to this series as I greatly enjoyed this one. I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
Defne and her young daughter Elif are on the run from Elif's father who tried to sell the girl to slavers because of her Fae abilities. Defne is heading for the Sorting which will mean she ends up being owned by an Orc, but Elif would be safe. When a Fae lord expresses an interest in her daughter, Defne pulls a weapon to defend her and this draws an Orc's attention. Uther is one of the original Orc commanders and he is impressed by the woman's courage and ferociousness. As she is marked as wanting an Orc master, he staves off the Fae's claim and asks if she is agreeable to going with him and becoming his wife. After some consideration, she agrees. But there is danger on her tail and she can only hope that Uther means what he says when he promises to protect her and Elif. There is also the little problem that Defne did not easily trust - and that is what she will need to do it she wants all Uther has to offer.
Hope there is more to this series as I greatly enjoyed this one. I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
March 19, 2023
*received a Kindle ARC in exchange for an honest review*
4/5 Stars
I haven't dabbled in a lot of Orc novels, but I definitely enjoyed this one. The concept was interesting and it was nice to see a different take on Fae since they are hot commodities in the fantasy romance world. All the characters were well-built and had development throughout the story. I enjoyed the Female's Circle and how badass the women in this novel were. I wouldn't have lasted long in that environment, so kudos to all of them!
With future novels, I hope to see more world-building surrounding the crash and maybe some backstory on where they come from. Seems like a great start to a fantastic series that has so many interesting possibilities.
My only complaint is the syntax/dialogue between the characters. I understand that they are not wanting to fully conform and learn the native language of the planet and schooling for humans is few and far between in the outlands. However, I found it distracting and difficult to read in parts. I would reread the same sentence in order to read it correctly and not the way my brain wanted to read it, which caused me to put the book down several times before coming back.
4/5 Stars
I haven't dabbled in a lot of Orc novels, but I definitely enjoyed this one. The concept was interesting and it was nice to see a different take on Fae since they are hot commodities in the fantasy romance world. All the characters were well-built and had development throughout the story. I enjoyed the Female's Circle and how badass the women in this novel were. I wouldn't have lasted long in that environment, so kudos to all of them!
With future novels, I hope to see more world-building surrounding the crash and maybe some backstory on where they come from. Seems like a great start to a fantastic series that has so many interesting possibilities.
My only complaint is the syntax/dialogue between the characters. I understand that they are not wanting to fully conform and learn the native language of the planet and schooling for humans is few and far between in the outlands. However, I found it distracting and difficult to read in parts. I would reread the same sentence in order to read it correctly and not the way my brain wanted to read it, which caused me to put the book down several times before coming back.
April 6, 2023
This was a great book and my first from this author and I loved it it kept me entertained throughout and I liked how the main characters each had issues and different reasons for being at the Immortal sorting center. Defne is trying to save her 6yr old daughter Elif from Fae slavers that her father tried to sell her to and so she runs away to save them both and is now at the Immortal sorting center hoping to be matched and protected and when a Fae male is interested in them she backs away and then a gorgeous male steps up to protect them. Commanders Uther Bachbracht is at the Immortal sorting center looking for a wife because he wants a family and now after seeing a feisty woman protecting her child and herself from a male Fae who wishes to claim them and so he steps in offering her and the child protection if she will be his wife and he knows she is woman he has been looking as a wife not a servant or slave. How does it all turn out can he protect them both from her father and the slavers and do they have a future together or not. Great book.
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