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Trollkin Lovers
Enchanting the Ogre's Heart
Norgren the ogre wants nothing more than a mate of his own, and he’s found the perfect a beautiful, curvy woman named Tally. He expects her to be thrilled about the beautiful home he’s built for her, but Tally flees in fear instead, shattering Norgren’s heart.
But then war comes to Tally’s town, she may have no choice but to come back to Norgren for help. Will he get past his hurt and rejection, and take her in?
This is a short, steamy monster romance novella that takes place in the Trollkin Lovers universe. While it does incorporate characters from previous novellas, it can be read alone. It features a cinnamon roll ogre MMC, a curvy, badass FMC, rejected mates, breeding, and lots of cozy sweetness, against a backdrop of war. Visit the author's website for all tropes and CWs at LyonneRiley.com.
But then war comes to Tally’s town, she may have no choice but to come back to Norgren for help. Will he get past his hurt and rejection, and take her in?
This is a short, steamy monster romance novella that takes place in the Trollkin Lovers universe. While it does incorporate characters from previous novellas, it can be read alone. It features a cinnamon roll ogre MMC, a curvy, badass FMC, rejected mates, breeding, and lots of cozy sweetness, against a backdrop of war. Visit the author's website for all tropes and CWs at LyonneRiley.com.
108 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2024
30 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Lyonne Riley
31 books876 followersLyonne Riley writes super steamy monster romance, fantasy romance, and sci-fi romance. She lives in the middle of nowhere with her spouse and two dogs, writing spicy fairy tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
January 16, 2025
A super sweet novella about forgiveness and acceptance (and of course railing an ogre). This was a lot lower stress than the other one I read, and I really enjoyed how cozy it was.
October 24, 2023
Lyonne has quickly become a favorite go-to author for me, for charming, smart, steamy, and beautifully written monster romance, and I hope she doesn't slow down because I'm eating it up!
There is just nothing quite like a big cinnamon roll Ogre hero, and Norgren is just that. You just want nothing more than for him to be loved; and although it takes her a bit to realize he is in fact completely enamored by her-Tally finally comes around.
He worships Tally-each and every inch of her body. Not even a language barrier will keep him from learning more about his little human. Plus, he gives her the benefit of the doubt, even when she may not necessarily deserve it.
I love that when she apologizes to Norgren for how she treated him in the beginning, it's truly so genuine and heartfelt. Lyonne writes in a way that makes you believe in fated love between her characters, and it's always such a pleasant surprise just how substantial a story she is able to produce in such a quick read-she really is gifted!
I am obsessed with this world she's created, and each unique character -I can't recommend her work enough!
Thank you to Lyonne for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
There is just nothing quite like a big cinnamon roll Ogre hero, and Norgren is just that. You just want nothing more than for him to be loved; and although it takes her a bit to realize he is in fact completely enamored by her-Tally finally comes around.
He worships Tally-each and every inch of her body. Not even a language barrier will keep him from learning more about his little human. Plus, he gives her the benefit of the doubt, even when she may not necessarily deserve it.
I love that when she apologizes to Norgren for how she treated him in the beginning, it's truly so genuine and heartfelt. Lyonne writes in a way that makes you believe in fated love between her characters, and it's always such a pleasant surprise just how substantial a story she is able to produce in such a quick read-she really is gifted!
I am obsessed with this world she's created, and each unique character -I can't recommend her work enough!
Thank you to Lyonne for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 22, 2023
A short, sweet, and steamy story about two people who both fear being alone and forgotten.
This was a great novella! Another adorable relationship between a human and Trollkin. Norgren was so endearing and comforting to Tally when she just needed someone to support her after losing her home. My heart hurt for him when he was rejected but so happy they both got their happy ending!
This was a great novella! Another adorable relationship between a human and Trollkin. Norgren was so endearing and comforting to Tally when she just needed someone to support her after losing her home. My heart hurt for him when he was rejected but so happy they both got their happy ending!
January 25, 2024
Norgren and Tally were so sweet together. I love that she didn't fall for him instantly and was cautious. Tally is such a witty fun FMC. Norgren is sweet and protective but also allows Tally to make her own choices. The spice too whewwww. Such a great novella by Lyonne!!
April 20, 2024
Oh my heart. Norgren is so precious 😭😭 he just wants to be loved. And he wants a “hearty” mate. On that quest he spots Tally foraging in the woods. Instead of approaching her right away he builds her an entire home. 🪵 once completed he finally tries to charm her. Except by charm her he tries to insist she stays with him on the first meeting. Does it work? Heck no! 😬 and Norgren’s heart is broken.
Weeks later Tally’s village gets raided by Trollkin and she runs to the safety of Norgren. Of course he lets her stay, but he’s hurt. He keeps himself closed off. 😣 it takes time for them to come together. And when they do it’s beautiful. 🥹♥️
What I liked:
Novella with good pacing
Ogre/monster hero
Beauty and the beast trope
Forced proximity trope
He falls first
Virgin hero
Thiccccc heroine
What I didn’t like:
Not much. It’s a genuinely lovable book. It hits the sweet and cozy spot.
Weeks later Tally’s village gets raided by Trollkin and she runs to the safety of Norgren. Of course he lets her stay, but he’s hurt. He keeps himself closed off. 😣 it takes time for them to come together. And when they do it’s beautiful. 🥹♥️
What I liked:
Novella with good pacing
Ogre/monster hero
Beauty and the beast trope
Forced proximity trope
He falls first
Virgin hero
Thiccccc heroine
What I didn’t like:
Not much. It’s a genuinely lovable book. It hits the sweet and cozy spot.
October 19, 2023
Lyonne can do no wrong, I swear. First off, Norgren: giant cinnamon roll to the max, learned all of his human words from watching a mom fuss her toddler, builds a beautiful home for his mate-to-be and is shocked when she runs away. I love this man, er, ogre, SO much. He’s kind of simple at first glance, but he grows and learns by loving his little human woman.
Tally is an endearing mix of street-smart and curiosity killed the cat, and some of her choices are questionable. It’s amusing and precious seeing her and Norgren kind of stumble around each other as they figure out what their future together —or apart— looks like. But I love how they addressed their own hurts and overcame misunderstandings. Also love when the H is the virgin, and seeing how much Tally enjoyed *teaching* him. I will read anything Lyonne Riley writes, but I’m definitely hoping for more of these novelettes!
Tally is an endearing mix of street-smart and curiosity killed the cat, and some of her choices are questionable. It’s amusing and precious seeing her and Norgren kind of stumble around each other as they figure out what their future together —or apart— looks like. But I love how they addressed their own hurts and overcame misunderstandings. Also love when the H is the virgin, and seeing how much Tally enjoyed *teaching* him. I will read anything Lyonne Riley writes, but I’m definitely hoping for more of these novelettes!
August 8, 2024
This was a cute novella with a giant softie ogre who just wanted love and a lonely human woman who learned to love him once she knew him. I liked that he wasn’t inclined to warring, and dreaded even the thought of ever having to take another’s life. It was a nice change of pace.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: violence, gore, murder, massacre, fire, life threatening wound, physical assault (brief), pregnancy, birth (off page), stalking
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: violence, gore, murder, massacre, fire, life threatening wound, physical assault (brief), pregnancy, birth (off page), stalking
November 1, 2023
5/5
Breeding. Ogre monster. Hopefully in love. Fated mates. Communication barrier.
So good. I ate that shit up.
Don’t understand why their baby was human but whatever.
also could have done without the description of a dead child murdered in a village.
Huge cock. Monster. No cheating. No breakup. Low angst. Pregnancy, birth, child in book. Breeding. Cinnamon roll himbo. Virgin MMC.
Breeding. Ogre monster. Hopefully in love. Fated mates. Communication barrier.
So good. I ate that shit up.
Don’t understand why their baby was human but whatever.
also could have done without the description of a dead child murdered in a village.
Huge cock. Monster. No cheating. No breakup. Low angst. Pregnancy, birth, child in book. Breeding. Cinnamon roll himbo. Virgin MMC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
dnf
May 19, 2025DNF @ 44%
Bro he’s mad because he fixed her up a whole ass house, brought her out there, and was pissed when she didn’t wanna move in EVEN THOUGH THEY DONT SPEAK THE SAME LANGUAGE. The man couldn’t even communicate and yet he’s mad she didn’t understand? Like huh??
Bro he’s mad because he fixed her up a whole ass house, brought her out there, and was pissed when she didn’t wanna move in EVEN THOUGH THEY DONT SPEAK THE SAME LANGUAGE. The man couldn’t even communicate and yet he’s mad she didn’t understand? Like huh??
November 27, 2023
Well it turns out that the orc wasn't the only one enchanted by Tally and Norgren's story. I adored this book. Seriously, I read it all in one go as I didn't want to stop reading about this amazing new world. Tally is a human who apprentices at the local apothecary and the one that Norgren fell in love with at first sight. From the moment he sees her, he knows that they belong to each other. Now he has to convince her.
Their first greeting is hesitant with a tentative first day spent together that reveals everything that Norgren has done to show that he can provide for her. Unfortunately, there's a language barrier causing misunderstanding and inability to convey what needs to be said to fully understand what the other wants and doesn't want. Tally finally comes to realize that Norgren is asking her to be his mate after their first meeting and she runs away in fear, leaving Norgren heartbroken.
Later, Tally's village is attacked and she runs to Norgren as she has nowhere else to go. Still upset, he allows her to stay with him as he doesn't want her hurt and this is how their life truly begins.
I absolutely fell in love with this world. The descriptions are so vivid that you feel as though you're walking alongside the characters regardless of their setting. The locations, the people, the emotion that runs throughout every page.. the author didn't just bring the story to life, she brings your imagination to life as well. You're right there wanting to comfort Tally after she loses everything and you're rooting for Norgren as he pushes aside his own heartache over her rejection so that he can care for her as long as she's with him. Each step of their journey from meeting again to trusting each other, working out their issues and their loving each other without reserve broke down every wall around my heart right along with their own.
Their hardest moment comes from an attack by Trollkins who only wish to kill humans but it's also their finest moment as both shine so brightly in that same crisis. The love they share becomes overwhelmingly clear when they draw all of their strength, both physically and mentally, to save the other. We have a brief meeting of Morgan's family and I guarantee you'll laugh out loud at his uncle and you'll want to give his mom a great big hug. I highly recommend reading this book if you love new worlds, humor, adventure, falling in love and just plain fun. This was the first book I read that is related to the Trollkins Lovers series so I'm really hoping that we'll revisit these characters again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2025
⭐ Rating: 4/5
🔥 Spice: 3/5
I go back and forth on this one.
Enchanting the Ogre’s Heart definitely leaned more into the insta-love territory, especially compared to the slower, sweeter burn of the first book. Norgren is determined to find a mate, and in his mind? That means choosing a human woman (Tally), building her a cozy little home, and just… bringing her there. Job done. Obviously, she panics and runs, and honestly? Fair. I think I would have too.
What made the whole think work for me here, was getting Norgren’s POV from the start. His intentions weren’t malicious—just deeply misguided—and that made him a strangely lovable character, even when he was being an absolute stalker. I liked seeing the world through his lens and understanding why this whole situation made perfect sense to him. Definitely giving golden retriever vibes. Just in ogre form...
Tally, thankfully, brings a needed dose of realism. She slams the brakes on the fairytale and essentially shuts him down cold. I loved that. And while plot shenanigans force her to return to Norgren later, the fact that time passes between them helped me buy into the story a bit more. He doesn’t just roll over and forgive her instantly after everything either, even though he’s still deeply obsessed with her—and I really appreciated that.
The smut as before, was delicious. It felt like there was fewer smutty scenes in this book but I didn't feel like it was lacking in that department. I think it was mainly because of the story and context that the scenes we got, felt right the right amount. They were similar in the sense that Ogre's are clearly obsessed with making babies, especially knowing that it's possible. And I am not complaining in any way shape or form. Lyonne Riley knows how to write some breeding kink my god.
That said, I struggled a bit on the emotional front. Compared to the first book, which built feelings slowly and with care, this one felt like it skipped a few emotional steps. I liked their dynamic and their differences, and I really enjoyed the added world-building—but I didn’t feel it as deeply as I did with Grunagg and Aliya.
Still, this was good. It expanded the universe, gave us a fresh dynamic, and scratched a different kind of itch. Norgren is more possessive, more intense, and Tally holds her own—and that made for some great tension.
TLDR: If Tempting the Ogre’s Heart was a slow-burn hug, this one’s a spiky cuddle with claws.
Different vibe, same monster-loving satisfaction.
🔥 Spice: 3/5
I go back and forth on this one.
Enchanting the Ogre’s Heart definitely leaned more into the insta-love territory, especially compared to the slower, sweeter burn of the first book. Norgren is determined to find a mate, and in his mind? That means choosing a human woman (Tally), building her a cozy little home, and just… bringing her there. Job done. Obviously, she panics and runs, and honestly? Fair. I think I would have too.
What made the whole think work for me here, was getting Norgren’s POV from the start. His intentions weren’t malicious—just deeply misguided—and that made him a strangely lovable character, even when he was being an absolute stalker. I liked seeing the world through his lens and understanding why this whole situation made perfect sense to him. Definitely giving golden retriever vibes. Just in ogre form...
Tally, thankfully, brings a needed dose of realism. She slams the brakes on the fairytale and essentially shuts him down cold. I loved that. And while plot shenanigans force her to return to Norgren later, the fact that time passes between them helped me buy into the story a bit more. He doesn’t just roll over and forgive her instantly after everything either, even though he’s still deeply obsessed with her—and I really appreciated that.
The smut as before, was delicious. It felt like there was fewer smutty scenes in this book but I didn't feel like it was lacking in that department. I think it was mainly because of the story and context that the scenes we got, felt right the right amount. They were similar in the sense that Ogre's are clearly obsessed with making babies, especially knowing that it's possible. And I am not complaining in any way shape or form. Lyonne Riley knows how to write some breeding kink my god.
That said, I struggled a bit on the emotional front. Compared to the first book, which built feelings slowly and with care, this one felt like it skipped a few emotional steps. I liked their dynamic and their differences, and I really enjoyed the added world-building—but I didn’t feel it as deeply as I did with Grunagg and Aliya.
Still, this was good. It expanded the universe, gave us a fresh dynamic, and scratched a different kind of itch. Norgren is more possessive, more intense, and Tally holds her own—and that made for some great tension.
TLDR: If Tempting the Ogre’s Heart was a slow-burn hug, this one’s a spiky cuddle with claws.
Different vibe, same monster-loving satisfaction.
December 12, 2024
This one was not my fave. I'm actually a huge fan of the Trollkin Lovers so I'm sad this one wasn't for me but it just felt so flat.
PLOT:
Norgen the Ogre wants a human wife. He leaves his village to build a house for his mate but his dream is shattered when Tally, the human he wants, runs off. When Trollkin warriors attack her village and she has nowhere to go she heads back to Norgen for protection.
THOUGHTS:
- I liked Norgen as a character. He's a little simple / dull but his heart is in the right place. He's just a guy wanting to find a partner and that's ok. However his whole temper tantrum when she doesn't automatically want to live with him speaks to a lack of maturity and understanding and I didn't by the "he's a sensitive soul" thing. Like you don't speak the same language, she didn't know what you wanted and yeah she has a life, how are you surprised she didn't fall to her knees to become your mate? Really?
- Tally was less likeable IMO and I found it hard to connect with her at all. She comes across to me as a scammer and opportunist con artist who's not particularly likeble. The fact that the "romance" only happens because she's scared of Trollkin, warms everyone they're attacking and thinks "oh go to that ogre you saw, he seems like a safe bet" was not great to me. It felt super gross and like "those Trollkin are evil rapist pillagers but this one is ok so I'll shack up with him because I have nowhere to go"
- I didn't really get the romance. First off.... They can't communicate! He knows a few human worlds but most of it is them trying to communicate and work things out without words. They have nothing in common and barely have a friendship before they just end up hooking up. That's cool, but right after that they're like totally joined at the hip and mates now when not 6 hours ago they were barely even friends.
- the smut. I LOVE the smut in these books but this was not it for me. It's not bad but definitely not as good as the other books. Also, Norgen, while sweet, comes across as very innocent so it felt a little less hot to me personally.
PLOT:
Norgen the Ogre wants a human wife. He leaves his village to build a house for his mate but his dream is shattered when Tally, the human he wants, runs off. When Trollkin warriors attack her village and she has nowhere to go she heads back to Norgen for protection.
THOUGHTS:
- I liked Norgen as a character. He's a little simple / dull but his heart is in the right place. He's just a guy wanting to find a partner and that's ok. However his whole temper tantrum when she doesn't automatically want to live with him speaks to a lack of maturity and understanding and I didn't by the "he's a sensitive soul" thing. Like you don't speak the same language, she didn't know what you wanted and yeah she has a life, how are you surprised she didn't fall to her knees to become your mate? Really?
- Tally was less likeable IMO and I found it hard to connect with her at all. She comes across to me as a scammer and opportunist con artist who's not particularly likeble. The fact that the "romance" only happens because she's scared of Trollkin, warms everyone they're attacking and thinks "oh go to that ogre you saw, he seems like a safe bet" was not great to me. It felt super gross and like "those Trollkin are evil rapist pillagers but this one is ok so I'll shack up with him because I have nowhere to go"
- I didn't really get the romance. First off.... They can't communicate! He knows a few human worlds but most of it is them trying to communicate and work things out without words. They have nothing in common and barely have a friendship before they just end up hooking up. That's cool, but right after that they're like totally joined at the hip and mates now when not 6 hours ago they were barely even friends.
- the smut. I LOVE the smut in these books but this was not it for me. It's not bad but definitely not as good as the other books. Also, Norgen, while sweet, comes across as very innocent so it felt a little less hot to me personally.
October 23, 2023
"Enchanting the Ogre's Heart" could easily be renamed "Enchanting Tally's Heart". The lengths Norgren goes to in order to win her affection are too strong for a first day of courting, but as a reader, I'm melting.
Norgren, the ogre with a heart full of longing, seeks nothing more than a mate to call his own. Tally, the skilled apothecary, is unexpectedly drawn into his world. The dynamics between them are fascinating, as Norgren grapples with his own desires, yearning to protect Tally from any potential harm and make sure all her needs are met.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this novel is the portrayal of Norgren's vulnerability. As a virgin ogre, he handles intimacy with surprising tenderness and skill. Riley skillfully depicts the contrast between Norgren's imposing exterior and his gentle, compassionate nature.
The dual point of view offers a front-row seat to their internal struggles, allowing the reader to intimately witness their growing desire, which they both try to resist. This choice by the author adds depth and authenticity to the characters, making their journey all the more relatable.
What makes this book stand out is its ability to be a comforting read with just the right amount of tension. The low levels of angst make it an ideal escape for those seeking a heartwarming love story without unnecessary emotional turmoil.
I have questions swirling around my head tho about the future of Trollkins and humans but I guess I need to keep an eye throughout this series to find some answer.
Norgren, the ogre with a heart full of longing, seeks nothing more than a mate to call his own. Tally, the skilled apothecary, is unexpectedly drawn into his world. The dynamics between them are fascinating, as Norgren grapples with his own desires, yearning to protect Tally from any potential harm and make sure all her needs are met.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this novel is the portrayal of Norgren's vulnerability. As a virgin ogre, he handles intimacy with surprising tenderness and skill. Riley skillfully depicts the contrast between Norgren's imposing exterior and his gentle, compassionate nature.
The dual point of view offers a front-row seat to their internal struggles, allowing the reader to intimately witness their growing desire, which they both try to resist. This choice by the author adds depth and authenticity to the characters, making their journey all the more relatable.
What makes this book stand out is its ability to be a comforting read with just the right amount of tension. The low levels of angst make it an ideal escape for those seeking a heartwarming love story without unnecessary emotional turmoil.
I have questions swirling around my head tho about the future of Trollkins and humans but I guess I need to keep an eye throughout this series to find some answer.
October 28, 2023
I was so excited when I heard we were getting another Trollkin Lovers novelette! I read it all in one sitting!
This novelette titled "Enchanting the Ogres Heart by Lyonne Riley is about Norgren, an ogre who left his home to find a human mate. On his travels he spies Tally and begins to build a home for them in the woods. After months of watching her and working on the house, he reveals himself to her and shows her all he's created for her, she runs off screaming. Eventually war and fate brings Tally back to his doorstep and the two start to bond...
The Good
I loved this story! I don't know how each addition to this series keeps making my heart ache and piece it back together over and over again. Tally and Norgren were so sweet together! I liked how their miscommunication was handled and how they sought out comfort in each other.
Tropes:
— Language Barrier
— Fated Mates
— Breeding
Horn Level: 5/5🌶️
Format: Ebook
The Rating
I give this book a 5/5🌟 rating. This was so sweet and cozy! I loved it!
Check out my socials here for more reviews!
This novelette titled "Enchanting the Ogres Heart by Lyonne Riley is about Norgren, an ogre who left his home to find a human mate. On his travels he spies Tally and begins to build a home for them in the woods. After months of watching her and working on the house, he reveals himself to her and shows her all he's created for her, she runs off screaming. Eventually war and fate brings Tally back to his doorstep and the two start to bond...
The Good
I loved this story! I don't know how each addition to this series keeps making my heart ache and piece it back together over and over again. Tally and Norgren were so sweet together! I liked how their miscommunication was handled and how they sought out comfort in each other.
Tropes:
— Language Barrier
— Fated Mates
— Breeding
Horn Level: 5/5🌶️
Format: Ebook
The Rating
I give this book a 5/5🌟 rating. This was so sweet and cozy! I loved it!
Check out my socials here for more reviews!
March 19, 2024
4&1\2 🌟's for Enchanting the Ogre's Heart🌟💖🔥
I have really come to love the Trollkin Lovers universe. In this latest story its Grunagg a kind hearted Ogre who wants a mate of his very own especially if she's human. He leaves his village and sets off to find his hearts mate. Tally works at the Apothecary she's good at mixing tinctures but she longs for a different life. As she's out gathering ingredients she has the feeling she's bending watched, followed. But instead of being scared she's never felt safer. Then she meets Grunagg he's been admiring her for awhile and has built her a home hoping that she will be his one and only. Tally doesn't know what to think and runs away. They tragedy strikes and she finds her way back to her Ogre hoping he forgives her and understands why she was cautious. Will her ogre forgive her and keep her safe or turn her away because he's hurt. You have to read and find out ! I love the world building and fantastic characters that keep me coming back with every book! I hope there will be more in the future.! Totally recommend💖🔥💖🔥💖🌟💖🔥🌟💖🔥🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖🌟💖🔥🌟🔥
I have really come to love the Trollkin Lovers universe. In this latest story its Grunagg a kind hearted Ogre who wants a mate of his very own especially if she's human. He leaves his village and sets off to find his hearts mate. Tally works at the Apothecary she's good at mixing tinctures but she longs for a different life. As she's out gathering ingredients she has the feeling she's bending watched, followed. But instead of being scared she's never felt safer. Then she meets Grunagg he's been admiring her for awhile and has built her a home hoping that she will be his one and only. Tally doesn't know what to think and runs away. They tragedy strikes and she finds her way back to her Ogre hoping he forgives her and understands why she was cautious. Will her ogre forgive her and keep her safe or turn her away because he's hurt. You have to read and find out ! I love the world building and fantastic characters that keep me coming back with every book! I hope there will be more in the future.! Totally recommend💖🔥💖🔥💖🌟💖🔥🌟💖🔥🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖🌟🔥💖🌟💖🔥🌟🔥
October 22, 2023
Riley does a fantastic job of portraying the loneliness that Norgren feels, and how badly he wants a mate. I wanted love for Norgren so badly; I could practically taste it just a chapter in. The things he does in preparation for Tally had me melting for him 🫠
I don’t mind Tally, and her initial curiosity and response to Norgren was 💯 normal and justified. This wasn’t an insta-love situation which I was immensely grateful for (and kinda expected, tbh), instead they actually took time to get to know one another before becoming something more.
How Riley is able to fit this much sweetness and action into just 100 pages is astounding. I’m just in love with this book. It felt like a bear hug, hot cocoa and a crackling fire on a snowy day, a good book on a rainy day. It was just everything. Can the Trollkin Universe please be real? 😭
Also the SPICE 🥵🥵 Sweet but rough and oh-so satisfying.
I don’t mind Tally, and her initial curiosity and response to Norgren was 💯 normal and justified. This wasn’t an insta-love situation which I was immensely grateful for (and kinda expected, tbh), instead they actually took time to get to know one another before becoming something more.
How Riley is able to fit this much sweetness and action into just 100 pages is astounding. I’m just in love with this book. It felt like a bear hug, hot cocoa and a crackling fire on a snowy day, a good book on a rainy day. It was just everything. Can the Trollkin Universe please be real? 😭
Also the SPICE 🥵🥵 Sweet but rough and oh-so satisfying.
January 10, 2024
It's the cute story of how the ogre Norgren gets the human Tally to fall in love with him.
Norgren is a bit lonely and after meeting the human mate of an ogre friend, he decided to travel to try to find his human mate.
And he finds Tally who works in the shop of an apothecary, and starts to rebuild a home in the forest for them.
When he has finished their home, he meets her and gets her to trust his enough to follow him to the house and have a meal with him, but when he tries to get her to stay she refuses and run away.
That day Tally broke his heart so when the Trollskin invade her town, she goes to his house to find shelter and he lets her stay with him but he isn't happy about it because he thinks she will run away again.
I really liked Norgren and how with the language limitations they had, how they find and learn to love each other.
Norgren is a bit lonely and after meeting the human mate of an ogre friend, he decided to travel to try to find his human mate.
And he finds Tally who works in the shop of an apothecary, and starts to rebuild a home in the forest for them.
When he has finished their home, he meets her and gets her to trust his enough to follow him to the house and have a meal with him, but when he tries to get her to stay she refuses and run away.
That day Tally broke his heart so when the Trollskin invade her town, she goes to his house to find shelter and he lets her stay with him but he isn't happy about it because he thinks she will run away again.
I really liked Norgren and how with the language limitations they had, how they find and learn to love each other.
December 9, 2024
4,25 stars for me
I loved the story and the main characters. Sweet, naive Norgren watching Tally from a distance, building a house for her and expecting her to instantly move in when they met for the first time. He was such a sweetheart, I was sad when Tally ran from him, but I couldn't blame her. I would be just as freaked out as she was in that situation. Tally had good instincts, if Norgren gave her time, meeting her in the woods regularly I think they would get together earlier ;)
It was a nice change that the trollkin here was the inexperienced one. That added to his naivety in the relationship department. He knew that ogres and humans can have happy relationships, seeing Grunagg and Aliya, but didn't understand that women need time to get to know someone before they decide to be with them. He was such a cute ogre.
I loved the story and the main characters. Sweet, naive Norgren watching Tally from a distance, building a house for her and expecting her to instantly move in when they met for the first time. He was such a sweetheart, I was sad when Tally ran from him, but I couldn't blame her. I would be just as freaked out as she was in that situation. Tally had good instincts, if Norgren gave her time, meeting her in the woods regularly I think they would get together earlier ;)
It was a nice change that the trollkin here was the inexperienced one. That added to his naivety in the relationship department. He knew that ogres and humans can have happy relationships, seeing Grunagg and Aliya, but didn't understand that women need time to get to know someone before they decide to be with them. He was such a cute ogre.
October 19, 2023
4.25
I would like to thank Lyonne Riley for an early copy in exchange of an honest review
This was a lot more centered in the conflict of war between Trollkin and humans, however, it still led way for the tenderness that was Norgren and Tally's eventual love. Their romance budded a bit slower than his buddy did yet I found I enjoyed their love story more. Norgren was quick to realize his faults and apologize when he overstepped. Tally was very similar in that regard. It just felt so natural as you go through the story of why these two truly fall for each other. I honestly could read a full novel of them . Overall, Lyonne Riley has done it again.
I would like to thank Lyonne Riley for an early copy in exchange of an honest review
This was a lot more centered in the conflict of war between Trollkin and humans, however, it still led way for the tenderness that was Norgren and Tally's eventual love. Their romance budded a bit slower than his buddy did yet I found I enjoyed their love story more. Norgren was quick to realize his faults and apologize when he overstepped. Tally was very similar in that regard. It just felt so natural as you go through the story of why these two truly fall for each other. I honestly could read a full novel of them . Overall, Lyonne Riley has done it again.
November 14, 2023
Oh, poor Norgren. Unlike the VAST MAJORITY of monster men, not only is Norgren ready for romance, he actually does the work to get it. He's not about just nicking someone, no he builds them a nice house, an appropriately sized chair, even sets things up for some farming. The only thing he doesn't realise is that a nice house, yummy food and a good body isn't enough to entice a human woman to immediately drop everything and live with him.
I loved that Tally and Norgren had time to actually get to know each other and fall in love. There was no coercion, just two lonely people getting to be together. This was a short story that packed a lot of plot and I'm excited now to read the full novels.
I loved that Tally and Norgren had time to actually get to know each other and fall in love. There was no coercion, just two lonely people getting to be together. This was a short story that packed a lot of plot and I'm excited now to read the full novels.
June 8, 2024
Adorable and fluffy with angst too.
I love how Norgren got tips from Grunagg on how to woo Tally. Adorable. Getting her livestock? So sweet. I choose to believe that in the HEA of Grunagg and Aliya that they finally communicate well enough that Grunagg understands that it wasn’t the goats that sealed the deal for Aliya. It was the fact that the goats showed her that he wanted her to stay. And then when Grunagg told Norgren about it he just misunderstood. Haha! But that might just be me projecting my need to for clear communication in long term relationships. Which might be why I love the language barrier trope so much; it leads to hijinks and it’s so satisfying when they can finally communicate.
I love how Norgren got tips from Grunagg on how to woo Tally. Adorable. Getting her livestock? So sweet. I choose to believe that in the HEA of Grunagg and Aliya that they finally communicate well enough that Grunagg understands that it wasn’t the goats that sealed the deal for Aliya. It was the fact that the goats showed her that he wanted her to stay. And then when Grunagg told Norgren about it he just misunderstood. Haha! But that might just be me projecting my need to for clear communication in long term relationships. Which might be why I love the language barrier trope so much; it leads to hijinks and it’s so satisfying when they can finally communicate.
January 4, 2025
This author is so good at writing monster romance with action/drama/love/tender moments and spice! - This novelette was about 100 pages and an enjoyable read. Takes place during wartime (between humans and trollkin), but a few have decided to take human mates. In this story, he decides to prep everything for his mate without her even knowing who he is… needless to say, she doesn’t respond the way he hoped for when he shows her the home he built for them. But she didn’t fully understand his intentions since they had a language barrier. Eventually war finds her town and she has to flee. Only one place to go… but can he overcome his wounded pride and bruised heart? - spice level: 2.5/5. (Size difference; MMC isn’t very experienced)
August 9, 2025
*4.75 ✨
When he first sees her, he knows, she’s his mate and so he starts building their dream home to impress the human woman who does not yet know that he exists but she soon will.
I fell for this man from the very beginning like a couple of pages in he said he basically stalks her, watches her from afar so that he can get to know her a bit more so that when she knows he exists he can accommodate to her every want and needs…like ok where is my super sweet ogre because after I’ve read this book I was like is my ogre hiding in my garden somewhere observing just waiting for the right time to take me and make me his.
When he first sees her, he knows, she’s his mate and so he starts building their dream home to impress the human woman who does not yet know that he exists but she soon will.
I fell for this man from the very beginning like a couple of pages in he said he basically stalks her, watches her from afar so that he can get to know her a bit more so that when she knows he exists he can accommodate to her every want and needs…like ok where is my super sweet ogre because after I’ve read this book I was like is my ogre hiding in my garden somewhere observing just waiting for the right time to take me and make me his.
November 14, 2023
Having not read anything from Riley before I wasn't sure what to expect but all in all I got a solid read.
I had a bit of a time at the start as I got introduced to this world and characters but once that was established it was a fairly breezy read.
I do wish there was a little more backstory between Norgren and Tally to build up on that relationship but for a novella, the pacing went well and Norgren was a sweetie. Very much a gentle giant looking for love.
I'm looking forward to reading some more from the author.
I had a bit of a time at the start as I got introduced to this world and characters but once that was established it was a fairly breezy read.
I do wish there was a little more backstory between Norgren and Tally to build up on that relationship but for a novella, the pacing went well and Norgren was a sweetie. Very much a gentle giant looking for love.
I'm looking forward to reading some more from the author.
March 28, 2025
4.25 stars. Norgren, the male ogre lead, was shocked to see another young ogre with a human mate but quickly decided a human female would suit him too. He has since wandered over the countryside searching for the best one for him. When he sees Tally, the female human lead, he’s sure she’s the one for him and he promptly establishes a homestead to bring her home to.
Tally works in an apothecary and she often walks in the woods to collect ingredients. When Norgren approaches her, she’s intrigued enough to go with him but she runs away in fear when she realises he wanted her to stay as his mate.
Then the war comes to her village and she has nowhere left to go. Desperate she retreats to the woods and Norgren’s home…
This novella is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, rejected mate, fantasy romance. I enjoyed Norgren’s dedication and focus. I empathised with Tally’s initial shock and appreciated her pragmatism that saw her return to Norgren. I enjoyed seeing them build a relationship, including steamy moments.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Tally works in an apothecary and she often walks in the woods to collect ingredients. When Norgren approaches her, she’s intrigued enough to go with him but she runs away in fear when she realises he wanted her to stay as his mate.
Then the war comes to her village and she has nowhere left to go. Desperate she retreats to the woods and Norgren’s home…
This novella is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, rejected mate, fantasy romance. I enjoyed Norgren’s dedication and focus. I empathised with Tally’s initial shock and appreciated her pragmatism that saw her return to Norgren. I enjoyed seeing them build a relationship, including steamy moments.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
April 1, 2025
This book was short sweet and cute. An ogre sets off to find a human mate and when fixes up a house for them to live in. When he shows it to her and wants her to stay there with him, she runs off scared. This breaks his heart and angers him. She later returns when trollkin have taken over her city and threatened to kill her. He takes her in but only until she finds somewhere else to go. Eventually the two fall for each other and his heart softens for her again. It was sad seeing his poor heart get trampled on. But I was glad when he came back around.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2025
This was a cute spicy little novella. I read it in a little 2.5 hours. It takes place within a bigger world of events. There is a war going on and others have met and mated but these two are sort of like a little side quest story and it's sweet. I hadn't read anything by this author before so it was a nice way to dip my toe into their writing style and this world because there are a lot of books in the series but I really enjoyed it! I got it free as part of a promotion the author participated in supporting curvy FMCs.
October 20, 2023
Lyonne Riley has done it again!! I absolutely adore the trollkin universe that she’s created. Norgren and tally have the cutest relationship that develops after a small misunderstanding that leads them into a forced proximity situation, one bed trope, he falls first, communication barrier…need I say more? I devoured this novella in a span of a day. Highly recommend to everyone who needs a great little HEA in their day.
May 6, 2025
Loved this short read! 💚
Absolutely loved this! I don’t know what it says about me that my heart hurt for Norgren when Tally didn’t immediately want to stay with him (a giant green ogre who she just met and couldn’t even really communicate with) in his home. But I am beyond happy that it worked out. This was a beautiful story and I think the limited communication in the beginning made it even more special. Can’t wait to read more of this series!
Absolutely loved this! I don’t know what it says about me that my heart hurt for Norgren when Tally didn’t immediately want to stay with him (a giant green ogre who she just met and couldn’t even really communicate with) in his home. But I am beyond happy that it worked out. This was a beautiful story and I think the limited communication in the beginning made it even more special. Can’t wait to read more of this series!
November 7, 2025
I believe my lowest rated of the series. The spice was immaculate as always but I didn’t believe in Norgren and Tally’s relationship all that much! That combined with the cottagecore vibes side by side with war crimes threw me for a loop, similar to the second book in the series!
Did appreciate one book where a Trollkin acknowledges their side is indiscriminately killing people as well. One issue with monster romances sometimes is baby
Did appreciate one book where a Trollkin acknowledges their side is indiscriminately killing people as well. One issue with monster romances sometimes is baby
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