War Maiden: An Orc Romance

The War Brides of Adrik #3

by Jordyn Alexander

Dura ka Woreki has always been a shieldmaiden of valor and duty.

Fighting alongside her cousin, King Rognar, she can’t imagine that she would ever have to pick between her honor and her heart. Until, in the heat of battle, her Mating Instinct awakens for an enemy soldier she has sworn to kill. When she makes an impulsive decision she can’t take back, Dura saves the soldier and spirits him off into the woods where they can hide, abandoning her allegiance for the first time.

Marvik Grimble has only one person in the world that he cares his sister Queen Adalind.

Forced by oath to protect her abuser, the twisted King Yorian, Marvik finds himself in the middle of a war that he knows he can’t win. When he is gravely injured in battle, he accepts his death, only to find himself saved by the very one that almost killed him in the first place. At first, all he wants is to escape from this strange orcress, but as he gets to know the brave and feisty Dura, he is no longer sure what he wants.

Unable to go back home, they slowly fall for one another. But just as Marvik and Dura think they have found their happy end, they discover a danger that could rock the foundations of both Adrik and Orik.

Can they warn the people they love and find a way to be together or will the duty they’ve both always carried bring their doom?

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Paranormal, Monsters, Paranormal Romance, Ebooks

ebook

Published October 4, 2024

Reviews

[theshadyivy · Rating 5 out of 5]

General: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🫦🫦🫦🫦

War Maiden by Jordyn Alexander (@authorjordyn) is the third book in her War Brides of Adrik series, but it can be read as a standalone. This book will be released on October 4th.

Tropes:
⚔️ Sassy FMC
⚔️ Romantasy
⚔️ Virgin
⚔️ Forced proximity
⚔️ One bed
⚔️ Strong FMC
⚔️ Enemies to lovers
⚔️ Fated mates

Before you start reading this story read the trigger warnings, because your mental health always comes first.

I'm so grateful to Jordyn for giving me the opportunity to read War Maiden. I was really curious since I had never read a romantasy before, and what can i say? I absolutely loved the story!

The story follows Dura, our fierde Orc FMC, and Marvik, the human MMC. They meet in the middle of a war between Humans and Orcs, and the story could have ended there if Dura had succeeded in killing Marvik - but fate had other plans. Dura, the General of the Southern Horde and the Keeper of the King, fought relentlessly for her position and is also the cousin of King Rognar. Similarly, Marvik holds a high rank as the first knight to King Yorian, who is married to his sister, Adalind. Once fate binds them together, life becomes anything but easy, yet they are forced to remain by each other’s side.

There are several plot twists I didn’t see coming, and the spice is incredible. I especially love when the FMC takes the dominant role, and the MMC enjoys it just as much.

➡️ So preorder to get your book now.

Quotes:

„You want it harder, my dirty little huntress? You want me punishing your pųşşy with my ç0çk? Want me to make you come?“

Dura stalks forward in her graceful way, for all the world looking like a sleek predator. “And I give this to you freely as well.” With those words she kneels in the leaves in front of me, still with that challenging look. Her hands come up to the ties on my trousers and I don’t stop her.

His words are coarse, but for some reason they make me more wet, more needy. Like I told him before, I like it. I like this feeling, like I am taking buttoned up, honorable Marvik and breaking him down to his most primal, dirty self. That even though I am following his commands, I am the one in charge, the mistress of his pleasure.

Marvik shouts again, coming once more. Next time I’ll bring a gag. It would be fun to hear his shouts muffled, his begging and requests garbled while I do what I want.

#indieauthor #newauthor #debut #booklover #bookgirl #books #darkromance #reader #spicybooks #newbooks #pocketbook #fatedmates #orc #romantasy #forcedproximity #enemiestolovers #theshadyivy

[M.E. Byrd · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The first two books of "The War Brides of Adrik" feature a female main character who is human/human blessed. War Maiden begins from the perspective of Dura, a female orcress warrior, which I found to be a refreshing change. The story immediately plunges into action with a battle at Fort Attis, including a beheading, which I appreciated.

While the opening scenes were exciting, the focus shifted from battle to tension between the characters, causing the initial energy to fade. The romance develops gradually, as expected between enemies, and becomes the main plotline. There are many small moments that help build understanding between the characters. The romance is more nurturing than one would expect from an enemies-to-lovers storyline.

I particularly enjoyed the incorporation of the curse on Mavrik, as it added depth to his character and his feelings towards Adelind. Additionally, the introduction of vampires expands the series into the supernatural, and I anticipate they will play a larger role in the fourth book.

Key Tropes:
- Magic abilities
- Romantasy
- Virgin
- Forced proximity
- One bed
- Strong female main character
- Enemies to lovers
- Fated mates

I felt that Queen Adelind's dialogue with her brother seemed forced, as if she was trying too hard to play the role of a queen, with her constant use of "my brother" feeling insincere.

Despite the different budding romances and points of view, the series has an overarching story arc that ties the books together. So far, my favorite is book two, War Mistress. I am eagerly anticipating the release of book four, War Mage. 

[Anne-Marie Romance Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What would you do if you stabbed your enemy in the chest only to discover he's your fated mated and now dying in your arms? That's what faces Dura, and orcress warrior during a battel to save the kingdom. The human is dying and saving him means desertion and losing everything she has, but letting him die means her one chance at a fated mate is lost forever.

This enemies to lovers, high angst and high steam book was just so good, and the series just keeps getting better! In this book we finally get to see what happened to Dura and Marvik when they disappeared during battle.

The plot really drew in me in, and I found myself very invested in the story wondering how they'll possibly overcome all the obstacles in their way. and I loved that Dura was seen and appreciated for being athletic and dominant and unshrinking. She know who she is and what she wants and makes no apologies for who she is.

This book was a fantastic orc romance about lovers overcoming the odds stacked against them. It had engaging plot and characters and lots of spice to tie it all together!

[Liv · Rating 5 out of 5]

⋆｡°✩ Spoiler Free Reviews ⋆｡°✩

Book 3 in this series, gutted I gotta wait for book 4!

So this is a change from books 1 and 2 - the orc in this book is the female, and the human is male. This had tropes of forced proximity, only one bed, orc X human obviously, and enemies to lovers.
Smut was 3.5/5 on the spice scale, loving ALL of this one, definitely my vibe. It’s again a HEA in a series of interconnected standalones.

These two characters had me at the edge of my seat, reading about them and their interactions, being unable to know one way or another which way it would go.. Oh I truly did love this pairing, a match picked by Fate 1000%.

[SeasaltRose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better than the second book, not as compelling as the first. I enjoyed both the main characters and the woman being the “monster” is always fun to read. I also liked the small glimpse into elven culture.

Once again the worldbuilding could be interesting but even though vampires and werewolves are encountered we barely learn anything about them.

I also didn’t like that “femdom” or the woman being the dominant one in the bedroom was teased the whole book but barely happened for half a scene in the epilogue. I was hoping to get more variety than the mainstream romance dynamics but it’s not really present.

[Mia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This might just be my favortie in the series, so far! Dura and Marvik had great chemistry with tension and banter!

We get fated mates, eminmes to lovers and all the spice we like ;)
I would recommend to read them in order, but it will be an easy enjoyable fantasy read.
I will definitely be waiting for book 4!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. And at thanks to Booksirens for the ARC

[Therena · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

War Maiden was a good little story. I enjoyed the overall plot and the setting. And the hurt/comfort trope.

Characters were relatable.

[Lia ☾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story rating: 4.5⭐️ | Romance lvl: 4.0⭐️
Spice lvl: 2.5🌶️  | Smut frequency: Medium⏳

----------------------—

Tropes:
💚 Orc FMC & Human MMC
✨ Fated mates | Unrequited mate bond
⚔️ Enemies to lovers
🔗 Forced proximity

----------------------—

~ STORY & PLOT 📝 ~

I JUST LOVE THIS SERIES! I feel like each book is better than the last (well, in fact, they're all just as great, I'm just super thrilled to get to discover a new one every time!).

First, the FMC being the "monster" is so nice because it's always the MMC, and also it's super well done AND the dynamic between them is ✨chef kiss✨ 🥰

I can't wait for the next one, I didn't see that couple coming but I'm soooooo excited I can't wait! 😍
This is definitely one of my fav series about orcs, I'm obsessed 🥰🥰🥰🥰



---------------------—

This is an arc review. Thanks to the author for the advanced ebook copy 🙏💖

---------------------—

[TrishSparklerReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

@TrishSparklerReads Bookstagram:
ARC - Release date is October 4

“War Maiden” by Jordyn Alexander
Series: War Brides Book 3
Genre: Monster/Fantasy Romance
POV: Dual

Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️
Darkness:2🩶

Highlights:
🖤Fated Mates
🖤Enemies to lovers
🖤One bed
🖤Virgin Monster FMC

Thoughts:
A classic Fantasy novel with the twist of a female orc/elf finding her fated mate. I loved this reverse take on your average monster novel. In true enemies to lovers fashion, their love story grows through proximity. The spicy scenes were great and her monster otherness definitely played out in the bedroom. Expect some action and adventure as they hide while nursing Marvik back to health.

🛑Please read all the author warnings as themes and events could be triggering.

[Alexander Halliwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: “War Maiden” by Jordy Alexander
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice Level: 3.5/5

I want to begin by expressing my gratitude to Jordy Alexander for giving me the opportunity to be part of the ARC team for “War Maiden.” It was an incredible experience diving into this world, and I feel truly honored to have been able to read it before its release.

War Maiden instantly captivated me with its rich world-building, fierce characters, and intense emotional stakes. The storyline is an intricate blend of romance, power struggles, and personal growth that kept me hooked from start to finish. The tropes used in this book are among my favorites, and Jordy executed them beautifully.

Tropes:

• Enemies to Lovers: The tension between the two leads was palpable from their first encounter. I loved watching their relationship evolve, moving from distrust and animosity to a slow-burn romance. The gradual development of their emotions was handled perfectly.
• Strong Female Warrior: The female main character is a formidable warrior. Her strength, resilience, and skill in battle made her a character to admire. She faces her challenges head-on and grows both emotionally and physically throughout the story.
• Fated Mates/Bond: This trope was woven into the story in a way that felt fresh and dynamic. The concept of a fated bond added layers to the character interactions and increased the stakes for their relationship.
• Found Family: The camaraderie and relationships formed by the characters outside of their blood ties gave a heartwarming feel to the story. The bonds they shared were not only about survival but about love and loyalty.
• Political Intrigue/Power Struggles: The world of War Maiden is not just about physical battles but also about the intricate politics between kingdoms. The power dynamics at play were fascinating, with every decision holding weight for both the characters and their world.

Characters:

The FMC was by far one of my favorite parts of the novel. Her journey from a fierce warrior to someone learning to embrace her vulnerability and love was deeply moving. Her strength and determination were balanced perfectly with her emotional complexity.

The MMC was the perfect counterpart. His initial cold demeanor hid layers of depth and vulnerability, which were slowly peeled back as his connection with the FMC deepened. Together, they created a dynamic that was as tender as it was fiery.

Spice Level:

With a spice level of 3.5, War Maiden offers a well-crafted balance of intimacy and emotional connection between the characters. The romantic scenes were steamy without overpowering the plot, adding depth to the evolving relationship. The tension that builds up throughout the book pays off in a satisfying way, making the romance even more compelling.

Plot and Pacing:

The plot was fast-paced, with just the right amount of action and quiet, emotional moments. The stakes felt high throughout, and every twist had me on edge. There was never a dull moment, and the balance between action, political intrigue, and romance was seamless. The world-building was immersive, making me feel like I was walking beside the characters as they navigated the various kingdoms and threats.

Final Thoughts:

War Maiden is a breathtaking journey of love, war, and personal growth. It has everything I look for in a fantasy romance: a compelling world, strong and relatable characters, sizzling chemistry, and emotional depth.

Once again, thank you, Jordy Alexander, for letting me be part of this adventure. I cannot wait to see the response from readers and watch this book take the world by storm!

[Nora Ellen (Nbbookery) · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the heat of battle, Orcress General Dura defeats the human captain, only to awaken her mating bond to the now dying man. Deserting her people, she brings Marvik to the forest and saves him. After months of recovery, they are both thought dead. Dura and Marvik travel together while she fights the mate bond between them, and he plots his escape from the orcress. Except, as tensions rise between them, Marvik realizes he doesn't want to part from his savior. Their self-imposed hermit lifestyle is shattered when Marvik gets captured by vampires, who are plotting a massacre on his former people. Dura saves him, but they are faced with the decision to expose themselves to the king and queen and save those in the vampire's path or do nothing as innocent people are hurt.

Forced proximity and a forbidden love trope with fated mates and a slow burn? I already knew this was going to be a good one before I started! Dura and Marvik are whispered about in the other books, but learning their story from start to finish was an experience. She's the orc king's cousin, and he's the human queen's brother, so to say they start off strongly as enemies is an understatement. Dura's love for her family and people make her a passionate character. Marvik's love for his sister and desire to do the right thing has had his back against a wall for a while. Dura unknowingly set him free, in a way, and they had some sizzling tension while they tried to work around each other. She fell first, but he fell harder. I love how he was willing to sacrifice everything for her, even if it meant being unalived together. They are enviable as a couple and powerhouses as warriors.

[M.E. Byrd · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first two books of “The War Brides of Adrik” feature a female main character who is human/human blessed.  War Maiden begins from the perspective of Dura, a female orcress warrior, which I found to be a refreshing change. The story immediately plunges into action with a battle at Fort Attis, including a beheading, which I appreciated.

While the opening scenes were exciting, the focus shifted from battle to tension between the characters, causing the initial energy to fade. The romance develops gradually, as expected between enemies, and becomes the main plotline. There are many small moments that help build understanding between the characters. The romance is more nurturing than one would expect from an enemies-to-lovers storyline.

I particularly enjoyed the incorporation of the curse on Mavrik, as it added depth to his character and his feelings towards Adelind. Additionally, the introduction of vampires expands the series into the supernatural, and I anticipate they will play a larger role in the fourth book.

Key Tropes:
– Magic abilities
– Romantasy
– Virgin
– Forced proximity
– One bed
– Strong female main character
– Enemies to lovers
– Fated mates

I felt that Queen Adelind’s dialogue with her brother seemed forced, as if she was trying too hard to play the role of a queen, with her constant use of “my brother” feeling insincere.

Despite the different budding romances and points of view, the series has an overarching story arc that ties the books together. So far, my favorite is book two,  War Mistress. I am eagerly anticipating the release of book four,  War Mage. 

[Maaren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author and am leaving a voluntary review. Thank you!

**

OMG, this series just keeps getting better and better! I fell completely in love with the first two books in this series and I couldn't wait to find out what happens with Dura and Marvik after the tease at the end of the second book. And this did not disappoint as I couldn't put the book down and had to read it in one night.

I am in love with Dura and Marvik both. They are both powerful characters who are allowed to be vulnerable with each other. Each time one of them opened up, I felt it to my core and loved that. And not only did we get told these are strong fighters and warriors, we got shown that! I loved that especially with Dura as she was shown as this amazing warrior time and time again. What a BAMF orcress. And don't get me started on the angst, I'll just say its so good and so potent. Yummy.

The plot is woven so well and there were twists and turns I did not expect to see happen. And let me tell you, I was audibly gasping at times because I couldn't believe what was happening and just being completely hooked on seeing what could be coming next. The ending was well worth it and I'm so happy how it turned out.

The next book teaser has me once again at the edge of my seat and I cannot wait to see how that story goes because it's going to be wild.

[Allthebooks (Lynette) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 3 in the Warbrides of Adrik series and is a standalone. But I would highly recommend reading books 1 and 2 before this one for the full experience, even though each book centers around a different couple. The way I devoured this series and left no crumbs!! Loved it! Strong heroines are my krptonite and the FMC Dura was everything. The style of writing, the way the author gets you invested in her characters, the emotions, the action, the suspense, the swoon. Also its 4 chilli pepper spicy, but so cleverly and tastefully done, it feeds the imagination. The development of her characters and the addictive storyline had me turning pages with gusto. This one is my favorite so far, with the FMC being ORC/ELF vs the MMC being ORC males in books 1 and 2. The world builds from book 1 and gets better with every installment. Book 1 of this series was my first ORC Romance. Before this series, I had never read an ORC romance. But I always love supporting Indie authors and decided to give it a try. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed. The fact that I just finished Book 3 and already looking forward to book 4 is a testament to that. I love binging a series, and this series is so binge worthy! What are you waiting for? Go get these and enjoy the ride.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic monster romance with a touch of fantasy. And while this book is part of a larger series, it can easily be read as a standalone. However, there is an underlying story line running throughout the book that makes the reader want to read the other stories to better understand and read the future outcome. I enjoyed the relationship between Dura, the FMC, and Marvik, the MMC. They have interesting backstories, good chemistry, and I enjoyed following them on their love journey. Additionally, I liked the spice in this book; it is spicy yet the spice is well planned and written, and supported by the plot. I will be going back and reading the first two books in this series and am excited to see who's story is told next.

Highlights:
✨Orc x Human Monster Romance
✨Orcress Shieldmaiden FMC
✨Human Warrior MMC
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨Forced Proximity

Favorite Quote: "It is a hard thing, though, to be the product of people that the world is better off without."

Thank you to the author for this advanced copy. My opinions are my own.

Reviewer Note: I previously read this book as a BETA read and reread as an ARC.

[Danie Phantom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, I love this series. This book was a great addition to it. This book had me hooked from the beginning. Books with maps with always have a piece of my heart.
I love how this time the orc was female and the MMC was human. It gave a new version to what we are used to.
Now, let me say, I love a good plot twist. This book had a FEW plot twist I did not see coming, so obviously it made me love this book even more.
The chemistry between the main characters was magnetic. Their self development into being vulnerable starting with each other was heartwarming. The spice between them was hot and worth reading.
Spice: 3/5
The book was fast paced, but in a way where you still had a great plot and a lot of details.
I definitely recommend reading not just this book, but the whole series since they are all interconnected.
Jordyn is literally one of my favorite authors and she keeps proving why with every book she puts out.

[Aria Maze · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gods I love enemies to lovers so much. We got introduced to them as they fought to the death and Dura making the killing blow gets hit with the Recognition, Mavrik is her mate. She steals him and nurses him back to health becoming a deserter in the process sadly. They go through so many months of betrayal and trying to trust one another.

They have the lovely one bed situation happen and that’s the first turning point for them. I loved how duty driven Dura was. Her honor means everything to her and to Mavrik as well, they make a good pair in this manner.

Mavrik has a FILTHY mouth and I loved it so much. They were beyond hot together it was insanity.

I think they’re might be my favorite couple and that’s saying a lot, every couple has been so amazing in this series.

Cannot wait for book four!!!!

I received an advance reader copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Live2readbookluva · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m just loving this series! I swear it feels like each book gets better. This was an another great read from Jordyn. It’s told in multi pov and primarily follows the FMC, Dura and the MMC, Marvik. This is an action packed fantasy romance series with great world building, strong character development, an intriguing plot, and steamy romance. I thoroughly enjoyed the main characters and watching them open up to one another. Their time together secluded in the forest holds so many of my favorite moments between these two. This was a bingeable, page turning, read that I didn’t want to end.

Themes & Tropes:

♥️Enemies to Lovers
💚Female Warrior
🖤Fated Mates
❤️Found Family
💚Political Intrigue & Angsty Plot
🖤Forbidden Love
❤️She Fell First but He Fell Harder


Also, the lead up to the next book has me already chomping at the bit wanting more. Overall, luved this read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

[Adrianell · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,25 stars for me
I enjoyed the story very much. It cleared the mystery we were wondering about for the two books and what happened to Marvik and Dura was as interesting as I expected it to be ;)
Dura was such a fierce, but also caring orcress, doing everything she could to save the life of her soul mate who she recognized only after stabbing him in the chest. Marvik was such an ass when he finally got better, but I couldn't really blame him for trying to escape. He didn't believe that they were fated to be together, it was a foreign concept to him.
I didn't expect the whole conflict at the end ;) I thought that they would be found by Rognar and Adalind in the forest, the vampires were quite an unexpected twist. Kudos for the twist and new, interesting kindgom/people that I can't wait to read more in the next book.

[Tia Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

War Maiden by Jordyn Alexander ARC Review

5/5⭐️

Wow what an amazing story that the author has created! This was a bit out of my usual genre being a medieval themed story but I was so surprised by how much I enjoyed it!

Some of my favourite features:
- Medieval Romantasy
- Enemies to Lovers
- Fated mates
- Forced proximity and only one bed 🤭
- Multi POV’s
- Healthy dose of spice 🌶️

I really enjoyed and found it very unique how the first chapter starts right as a battle is taking place. It was very action packed and the author has done a phenomenal job of writing the action/battle scenes throughout the entire book!

The book was fast paced which might not be for everyone but I found that it worked really well for the story and plot line. The chapters were a great length packed with a good deal of description and action. The whole book was also a perfect length, it never felt like it was dragging or was rushed.

War Maiden is being released 4th October 2024 so make sure to check it out!

ARC given in exchange for my honest review and opinion.

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

MFC Dura ka Woreki, is an Orcress shieldmaiden who in the heat of a battle against humans unexpectedly finds her ash’ka/soulmate.

MMC Marvik Grimble is wounded by Dura’s hand and on the brink of death, but no way is she letting her soulmate die.

War Maiden is a nicely written book three in the War Brides of Adrik series as the reader is pulled into the complicated and developing connection between these two sworn enemies.

Filled with political machinations, magic, intrigue, action, adventure, passion, danger, and twists, can they survive the challenges to come?

Great world building and well crafted characters made the story an engaging and captivating read. HEA

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[CiCi | bookameme · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved It!

I love this story world and the reluctant but undeniable chemistry between these two MCs was absolute fire. 🔥 Their relationship from the way they came together to how they integrated back to society was complicated. I really loved that we got perspectives from the people in their lives that were missing them as well. I highly recommend this.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Characters: 💙💙💙💙💙💙

Monster Love | Fantasy:
⚔️ Epic Historical Fantasy
❤️‍🔥 Enemies to Lovers
🐌 Slow Burn
💞 Fated Mates
🔐 Forced Proximity
🛏️ Only One Bed
🎖️ Orc General (FMC)
🪖 Human Captain (MMC)
🙊 Dirty Talking MMC
🧲 Opposite Sides of the War
🩸 They Tried to 🔪 Each Other

[Dean Vargo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unique and Fun

‘War Maiden: An Orc Romance (The War Brides of Adrik Book 3)’ by Jordyn Alexander is a wonderful fantasy filled with rich romance, vivid scenes, and intense battles.

Alexander does a great job of balancing descriptive narrative and dialogue to weave a wonderful adversary-to-lover story that left me wanting more!

The first-person narrative of Dura and Marvik was enjoyable for me: it deepened the experience of evolving from first interaction to love.

Five stars! I recommend for 18+ based on language and violent content.

[high.lady.katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Aaahhh this series just keeps getting better! I love it all ties together and the story continues to build in each book as we get new MMC & FMC POVs.

Enemies to lovers is my favorite! This is like true enemies to lovers!!! I was hooked right from the beginning. Such an exciting story- I was stunned, worried, there was great build up and tension and the spice 🔥

If you haven’t checked out this series yet you should!

✨ Tropes ✨
💚 Enemies to lovers
💚 He wants revenge
💚 Monster FMC
💚 Dirty talking MMC
💚 Fated mates
💚 One bed

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

I enjoyed it. It felt a bit slower paced compared to the first two stories and therefore felt like it dragged a little towards the end. Otherwise I loved both MCs. I liked the change in dynamic with an Orcress shieldmaiden finding her mate. I liked how their relationship progressed and felt realistic in that Marvick was wary and unsure about what being her mate meant with the history of what it meant for elves and orcs, which Dura was being a half breed.

Overall it was a bit steamier imo than the previous books because of Marvick's filthy mouth lol 😆🥵 but still plenty sweet.

[Tonia Rodriguez · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the prior books in the series. Enough to read this one. It was entertaining, though I didn't feel anything for the characters. It was nice to see rognar and adalind again and see where they are in their journey. I'll check out the next to see if it is as good as the first and second. This one was okay.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jacky · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the series where the female is an orc and that changed the dynamic but also made for another good read. War Maiden is the enemies-to-lovers you didn’t know you needed, but are happy to have found.

War Maiden tells the tale of Dura ka Woreki the shieldmaiden of king Rognar and Marvik Grimble the brother of Queen Adalind. And let me tell you, the spicyness in this book, chefs kiss! Although I liked the first 2 books more, this book is definitely worth your time!

[Nicola · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book I like to be honest with my star ratings giving it a 3 1/2 stars, I found Dura and Marviks journey together interesting the trials they went through to be together. I think Jordyn has talent with her writing, the spicy scenes definitely spicing haha, I look forward to reading book 4 :)

[Jorge Jorge · Rating 5 out of 5]

enemies to lovers

This book offers an intense “enemies to lovers” storyline, full of tension, honor, and passion. Dura and Marvik’s relationship is compelling, starting with a life-or-death battle and transforming as they navigate trust, betrayal, and desire. Their chemistry is fiery, making them one of the most captivating couples in the series.

[Gemslilbooknook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been looking forward to this story since the characters were first mentioned in book one and it is by far my favourite book in the series so far, I was kicking and squealing all the way through. Who doesn't love a filthy taking blonde MMC....just me 🤣 that's ok I don't like sharing anyway.

I am keeping my fingers and toes crossed for Gunag and Zera to have their own story too 🥰