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Monster Mate Hunt #3
Orc's Maiden
I’m determined to control my own life—until I meet a gruff orc who makes me dream about a future by his side.
Alwen: A year ago, one of the males in my village hurt me. When he tried to do it a second time, I took care of that problem—permanently. Then I’m selected for the annual Monster Mate Hunt where two village women must enter the forest to be claimed as an orc’s bride. If an orc tries to take me, I’ll handle him just as I did the man in my village.
To my dismay, I’m captured by a band of treacherous thieves. I’m planning my escape when an enormous, snarly orc attacks the camp. He slays the thieves and announces I’m his fated mate.
I won’t go down without a fight. If only I didn’t swoon whenever he comes near.
Zickar: I have one purpose: to find my brother, Dakur, and bring him back to our clan. When the path leads me to Alwen, she sparks my clan pendant, proving she's mine. She fights me at every turn, and I can tell she was hurt in the past. This pretty maiden deserves to be treated gently, and I’m just the male to do it. In no time, I can’t imagine a life without her.
But when someone steals her from me, I’ll cross the ends of the continent to save her. Alwen’s my fated mate, and I’ll do anything to make her mine.
Orc’s Maiden is Book 3 in the Monster Mate Hunt Series. Expect a seductive orc hero with a creative . . . (cough), size difference, a fierce, wounded woman who softens only for him, plus a fantasy world you'll want to live in. HEA guaranteed. Each book is standalone, but the series is more fun if read in order.
Trigger: references to a prior assault—not shown on the page.
Monster Mate Hunt
Books in Order:
Orc’s Mate
(a prequel novel – FREE with newsletter sign-up)
Orc’s Craving
Orc’s Fate
Orc’s Maiden
Orc’s Captive
Orc’s Taming
Alwen: A year ago, one of the males in my village hurt me. When he tried to do it a second time, I took care of that problem—permanently. Then I’m selected for the annual Monster Mate Hunt where two village women must enter the forest to be claimed as an orc’s bride. If an orc tries to take me, I’ll handle him just as I did the man in my village.
To my dismay, I’m captured by a band of treacherous thieves. I’m planning my escape when an enormous, snarly orc attacks the camp. He slays the thieves and announces I’m his fated mate.
I won’t go down without a fight. If only I didn’t swoon whenever he comes near.
Zickar: I have one purpose: to find my brother, Dakur, and bring him back to our clan. When the path leads me to Alwen, she sparks my clan pendant, proving she's mine. She fights me at every turn, and I can tell she was hurt in the past. This pretty maiden deserves to be treated gently, and I’m just the male to do it. In no time, I can’t imagine a life without her.
But when someone steals her from me, I’ll cross the ends of the continent to save her. Alwen’s my fated mate, and I’ll do anything to make her mine.
Orc’s Maiden is Book 3 in the Monster Mate Hunt Series. Expect a seductive orc hero with a creative . . . (cough), size difference, a fierce, wounded woman who softens only for him, plus a fantasy world you'll want to live in. HEA guaranteed. Each book is standalone, but the series is more fun if read in order.
Trigger: references to a prior assault—not shown on the page.
Monster Mate Hunt
Books in Order:
Orc’s Mate
(a prequel novel – FREE with newsletter sign-up)
Orc’s Craving
Orc’s Fate
Orc’s Maiden
Orc’s Captive
Orc’s Taming
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2024
164 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
Ava Ross
165 books769 followersAVA ROSS fell for men with unusual features when she first watched Star Wars, where alien creatures have gone mainstream. She lives in New England with her husband (who is sadly not an alien, though he is still cute in his own way), her kids, and assorted pets, including a yorkie pup and three cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 5, 2025
An Emotional Reckoning in a Foreign Landscape
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💜🤎💚
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌎
Character development: 🤓😋😀😍
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
In this installment of the Orc mate-hunt series, the narrative anchors itself in themes of trauma, trust, and reclamation of agency—delivered through the lens of its emotionally layered protagonists.
🧬 Alwen: Survivor, Sister, Warrior
Alwen enters the hunt burdened by both the responsibility of her past and the horrors she endured. As the eldest sibling and protector of her family, her sense of duty is palpable. Her traumatic experience—sexual assault and the retaliatory act of killing her attacker—sets the tone for her guarded disposition and sharp survival instincts. What’s compelling here is not just her resilience, but the ethical ambiguity surrounding her community’s arrangement with the Orcs. It raises questions about consent, protection, and patriarchal negotiation through sacrifice. Her psychology is rendered with stark clarity: she’s not just unwilling to submit—she’s prepared to kill again to defend her autonomy.
🪓 Zickar: Reluctant Leader, Unexpected Guardian
Zickar is introduced mid-crisis—his search for his captured brother ends not in reunion, but grief. Discovering Alwen as his fated mate shifts the trajectory of his emotional arc. Initially resentful of destiny’s timing, Zickar evolves into a guardian rather than a conqueror. His quiet decision to earn rather than seize Alwen’s trust provides a subtle critique of dominant male archetypes often seen in this genre. Instead of force or entitlement, Zickar’s power is channeled through emotional intelligence and patience—a refreshing inversion in Orc romance narratives.
🌿 Narrative Dynamics & World-Building
The interplay between Alwen and Zickar thrives in tension: fear versus desire, vulnerability versus strength. Their dialogue isn’t rushed or romanticized—it’s practical, even jarring at times, which allows emotional authenticity to take precedence over genre tropes. The setting supports this complexity: the flora and fauna are richly described, offering a living, breathing world that contrasts beautifully with the stark internal landscapes of both characters.
The politics of the village—sending women as offerings in exchange for protection—creates fertile ground for discussion. While not deeply explored here, the backdrop underscores the transactional nature of safety in this world and positions Alwen’s choice as even more powerful.
🎧 Audio Performance: Duality & Depth
Narrated by Scarlett Dorian and Stephan Borne, the audiobook benefits from strong vocal contrast. Dorian’s expressive delivery captures Alwen’s guarded strength, while Borne’s low, gravelly tone lends weight and nuance to Zickar’s internal conflicts. Though both excel within their own roles, the lack of duet-style delivery slightly blunts immersion—cross-voicing dialogue can be jarring. A full duet performance could elevate emotional immediacy.
🎭 Personal Reaction & Visual Disconnect
While the storytelling delivers emotional resonance, the cover art falls short of capturing the gritty, otherworldly aesthetic the narrative leans into. Orcs appear more awkwardly human than monstrously alluring—the story itself wins on emotional authenticity and thematic grit. The tension between fear and trust, survival and belonging, makes this a standout in the series. If future installments continue refining these arcs, it could evolve into something truly resonant.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💜🤎💚
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌎
Character development: 🤓😋😀😍
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
In this installment of the Orc mate-hunt series, the narrative anchors itself in themes of trauma, trust, and reclamation of agency—delivered through the lens of its emotionally layered protagonists.
🧬 Alwen: Survivor, Sister, Warrior
Alwen enters the hunt burdened by both the responsibility of her past and the horrors she endured. As the eldest sibling and protector of her family, her sense of duty is palpable. Her traumatic experience—sexual assault and the retaliatory act of killing her attacker—sets the tone for her guarded disposition and sharp survival instincts. What’s compelling here is not just her resilience, but the ethical ambiguity surrounding her community’s arrangement with the Orcs. It raises questions about consent, protection, and patriarchal negotiation through sacrifice. Her psychology is rendered with stark clarity: she’s not just unwilling to submit—she’s prepared to kill again to defend her autonomy.
🪓 Zickar: Reluctant Leader, Unexpected Guardian
Zickar is introduced mid-crisis—his search for his captured brother ends not in reunion, but grief. Discovering Alwen as his fated mate shifts the trajectory of his emotional arc. Initially resentful of destiny’s timing, Zickar evolves into a guardian rather than a conqueror. His quiet decision to earn rather than seize Alwen’s trust provides a subtle critique of dominant male archetypes often seen in this genre. Instead of force or entitlement, Zickar’s power is channeled through emotional intelligence and patience—a refreshing inversion in Orc romance narratives.
🌿 Narrative Dynamics & World-Building
The interplay between Alwen and Zickar thrives in tension: fear versus desire, vulnerability versus strength. Their dialogue isn’t rushed or romanticized—it’s practical, even jarring at times, which allows emotional authenticity to take precedence over genre tropes. The setting supports this complexity: the flora and fauna are richly described, offering a living, breathing world that contrasts beautifully with the stark internal landscapes of both characters.
The politics of the village—sending women as offerings in exchange for protection—creates fertile ground for discussion. While not deeply explored here, the backdrop underscores the transactional nature of safety in this world and positions Alwen’s choice as even more powerful.
🎧 Audio Performance: Duality & Depth
Narrated by Scarlett Dorian and Stephan Borne, the audiobook benefits from strong vocal contrast. Dorian’s expressive delivery captures Alwen’s guarded strength, while Borne’s low, gravelly tone lends weight and nuance to Zickar’s internal conflicts. Though both excel within their own roles, the lack of duet-style delivery slightly blunts immersion—cross-voicing dialogue can be jarring. A full duet performance could elevate emotional immediacy.
🎭 Personal Reaction & Visual Disconnect
While the storytelling delivers emotional resonance, the cover art falls short of capturing the gritty, otherworldly aesthetic the narrative leans into. Orcs appear more awkwardly human than monstrously alluring—the story itself wins on emotional authenticity and thematic grit. The tension between fear and trust, survival and belonging, makes this a standout in the series. If future installments continue refining these arcs, it could evolve into something truly resonant.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Pinterest|BookBub
November 21, 2025
I’ve been loving all of these so far. Orcs, chasing, char development. Its just so good.
February 18, 2024
💚 “I’m yours for this lifetime and beyond.”
~~~
Alwen is amazing! She’s strong, resilient and incredibly brave! And she knows how to take care of herself and her family. She’s also a fighter who does not back down from any challenges thrown her way. Even more, she’s so caring, protective and has a huge heart. But she’s been hurt badly in the past, so she doesn’t trust easily, especially men and males. Nevertheless, Alwen is an incredible woman and I loved her so, so much!
And Zickar is a phenomenal male! Dakur’s second in command and younger brother is one strong, deadly and fearsome warrior. But he’s also fiercely protective, loyal, honorable, caring, patient and considerate. And he will do everything to make sure his clan is protected and thriving. Zickar is absolutely wonderful and I couldn’t help but adore everything about him!
I absolutely loved everything that happened between Alwen and Zickar! Alwen is selected for the Mate Hunt but she won’t let anyone claim her. So, she runs far until she’s captured by thieves, only to be saved by one of the monsters she’s trying to escape. And Zickar is on a mission to find his clan leader, only to stumble upon a feisty human female who makes his clan pendant flare. I loved those two together! Their chemistry was fantastic right from the start and I loved their banters. Even more, I adored Zickar for giving Alwen time to get to know him, learn to trust him and accept him, but also giving her the choice to be with him or not. He was so patient and understanding, helping her deal with everything from the past and learn for herself that intimacy can bring the greatest of pleasures. And the more time they spent together, the more Alwen discovered the incredible male Zickar truly is. And when they couldn’t resist the undeniable need for one another, the passionate moments they shared were so hot! But claiming each other as mates is only the beginning. And Matis Clan’s future rests on the decisions they need to make. And both Alwen and Zickar did so well! They were absolutely perfect for each other and more than deserved to find happiness and love together!
In addition, the storyline was spectacular! I loved that we got to learn more about the Matis Clan and their lives among the trees. But there is also unexpected danger in the outskirts of their forest. And, maybe, new matings and alliances might be made along the way. With everything happening, I was glued to the pages till the very end!
Overall, the story is another fantastic addition to the series! It’s filled with adventure, danger, action, twists, drama, humor, passion and wonderful characters.
I loved it!
And, with that ending, I cannot wait to see what happens next!
~~~
Alwen is amazing! She’s strong, resilient and incredibly brave! And she knows how to take care of herself and her family. She’s also a fighter who does not back down from any challenges thrown her way. Even more, she’s so caring, protective and has a huge heart. But she’s been hurt badly in the past, so she doesn’t trust easily, especially men and males. Nevertheless, Alwen is an incredible woman and I loved her so, so much!
And Zickar is a phenomenal male! Dakur’s second in command and younger brother is one strong, deadly and fearsome warrior. But he’s also fiercely protective, loyal, honorable, caring, patient and considerate. And he will do everything to make sure his clan is protected and thriving. Zickar is absolutely wonderful and I couldn’t help but adore everything about him!
I absolutely loved everything that happened between Alwen and Zickar! Alwen is selected for the Mate Hunt but she won’t let anyone claim her. So, she runs far until she’s captured by thieves, only to be saved by one of the monsters she’s trying to escape. And Zickar is on a mission to find his clan leader, only to stumble upon a feisty human female who makes his clan pendant flare. I loved those two together! Their chemistry was fantastic right from the start and I loved their banters. Even more, I adored Zickar for giving Alwen time to get to know him, learn to trust him and accept him, but also giving her the choice to be with him or not. He was so patient and understanding, helping her deal with everything from the past and learn for herself that intimacy can bring the greatest of pleasures. And the more time they spent together, the more Alwen discovered the incredible male Zickar truly is. And when they couldn’t resist the undeniable need for one another, the passionate moments they shared were so hot! But claiming each other as mates is only the beginning. And Matis Clan’s future rests on the decisions they need to make. And both Alwen and Zickar did so well! They were absolutely perfect for each other and more than deserved to find happiness and love together!
In addition, the storyline was spectacular! I loved that we got to learn more about the Matis Clan and their lives among the trees. But there is also unexpected danger in the outskirts of their forest. And, maybe, new matings and alliances might be made along the way. With everything happening, I was glued to the pages till the very end!
Overall, the story is another fantastic addition to the series! It’s filled with adventure, danger, action, twists, drama, humor, passion and wonderful characters.
I loved it!
And, with that ending, I cannot wait to see what happens next!
March 7, 2024
Unexpectedly finding love and a purpose
I loved Alwen and Zickar’s monster-human, fated mates romantic suspense tale. This engaging story had a wonderful balance of humor, love, real life issues, danger, plot twists, painful pasts, and spice with two strong, brave and resilient MCs. Alwen is the oldest child in her family and after her father’s death, she helped care for her younger siblings. The humans in the settlement have an agreement with the orcs that in return for their protection, the humans will give them two brides a year. Alwen was “chosen” but since she is the survivor of an attempted assault, she has no interest in being forced to become an orc’s mate. When she is turned out of her village, she runs away from the orcs but is captured by outlaw humans. Zickar is an orc but his clan was not present for the mate hunt. He is looking for his brother, Dakur, who was taken when he encounters Alwen tied to a tree by the outlaws. His pendant immediately glows for her so he knows she’s his fated mate but he has no interest in love, only orclings. Despite how they meet, this is not a dubcon or noncon situation. Alwen and Zickar’s relationship develops organically without forced intimacy as they travel together back to his clan where he will have to become the new leader and face a new threat. I loved the way Zickar gently, lovingly, and beautifully helped Alwen come out of her trauma-imposed prison, learn to trust a male, and begin to own her body and power. The book includes good world building, sweet moments, spice, exciting action, danger, culture differences, painful pasts, imperfect characters, missteps, secrets, evil actors, and love. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I loved Alwen and Zickar’s monster-human, fated mates romantic suspense tale. This engaging story had a wonderful balance of humor, love, real life issues, danger, plot twists, painful pasts, and spice with two strong, brave and resilient MCs. Alwen is the oldest child in her family and after her father’s death, she helped care for her younger siblings. The humans in the settlement have an agreement with the orcs that in return for their protection, the humans will give them two brides a year. Alwen was “chosen” but since she is the survivor of an attempted assault, she has no interest in being forced to become an orc’s mate. When she is turned out of her village, she runs away from the orcs but is captured by outlaw humans. Zickar is an orc but his clan was not present for the mate hunt. He is looking for his brother, Dakur, who was taken when he encounters Alwen tied to a tree by the outlaws. His pendant immediately glows for her so he knows she’s his fated mate but he has no interest in love, only orclings. Despite how they meet, this is not a dubcon or noncon situation. Alwen and Zickar’s relationship develops organically without forced intimacy as they travel together back to his clan where he will have to become the new leader and face a new threat. I loved the way Zickar gently, lovingly, and beautifully helped Alwen come out of her trauma-imposed prison, learn to trust a male, and begin to own her body and power. The book includes good world building, sweet moments, spice, exciting action, danger, culture differences, painful pasts, imperfect characters, missteps, secrets, evil actors, and love. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
February 16, 2024
"I'd bear the scars for a lifetime, but they'd fade as they should"
Yes! I love that quote! I found this book to be healing in a way. The love and gentleness that Zickar has and shows toward Alwen was so beautiful. Alwen's amazing strength and determination to move past thing like her fear of heights and other bigger things is empowering. The world building is impeccable..I want to move in with the Matis Clan and live in the trees. The characters just shine! The Flazants are so cool! I loved the Flazant kids, so much fun. The Orc's in this series are not like other Orc's, they are so much more. The human women are strong and empowered even though they are forced into the Mate Hunt. The story is so good with elements of mystery, romance (obviously), sexy-times, drama and humor. I wish I was a writer so I could tell you all of the reasons you should buy this book! It will leave you feeling like you've been on a journey with a well-earned happy ending. I recommend this book in particular but also the entire series! I also recommend anything written by Ava Ross! I can honestly say I have never been disappointed with any of her books.
Yes! I love that quote! I found this book to be healing in a way. The love and gentleness that Zickar has and shows toward Alwen was so beautiful. Alwen's amazing strength and determination to move past thing like her fear of heights and other bigger things is empowering. The world building is impeccable..I want to move in with the Matis Clan and live in the trees. The characters just shine! The Flazants are so cool! I loved the Flazant kids, so much fun. The Orc's in this series are not like other Orc's, they are so much more. The human women are strong and empowered even though they are forced into the Mate Hunt. The story is so good with elements of mystery, romance (obviously), sexy-times, drama and humor. I wish I was a writer so I could tell you all of the reasons you should buy this book! It will leave you feeling like you've been on a journey with a well-earned happy ending. I recommend this book in particular but also the entire series! I also recommend anything written by Ava Ross! I can honestly say I have never been disappointed with any of her books.
February 29, 2024
My favorite in the series so far. Quick and really easy read that I finished this in one-sittinig.
We follow Alwen (the one on the Mate Hunt with Lyneth) and Zickar (who was searching for Dakar), as they slowly developed their relationship along the way to Matis Clan.
I always love a strong FMC in any book, and I love Alwen's growth as we saw throughout their journey. The sensitive topic was really handled well enough but I wished we saw more depth to it because it was touched for a few chapters then brushed off.
We saw Zickar from the previous book, and I knew that I wanted his story. He's a gentleman and how both their story was developed was great. There's some kind of insta-lust because of the 'fated mates' but they had conversations and great attitude that I really didn't mind.
I love seeing the Matis Clan more since they were secretive, and it opened up a whole new world. Also, the plot twist of having a new human settlement near them was great, and I can't wait for the next one.
We follow Alwen (the one on the Mate Hunt with Lyneth) and Zickar (who was searching for Dakar), as they slowly developed their relationship along the way to Matis Clan.
I always love a strong FMC in any book, and I love Alwen's growth as we saw throughout their journey. The sensitive topic was really handled well enough but I wished we saw more depth to it because it was touched for a few chapters then brushed off.
We saw Zickar from the previous book, and I knew that I wanted his story. He's a gentleman and how both their story was developed was great. There's some kind of insta-lust because of the 'fated mates' but they had conversations and great attitude that I really didn't mind.
I love seeing the Matis Clan more since they were secretive, and it opened up a whole new world. Also, the plot twist of having a new human settlement near them was great, and I can't wait for the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 29, 2024
4&1\2 terrific 🌟's for Orc's Maiden🌟🔥💖
This is Zickar & Alwen’s story. We met both characters in the last book. Feisty Alwen who hunts and tries to protect her family. She was hurt and carries the scars both physical and emotional. She's accused of a crime she did not commit and decides to join the orc hunt find a better way. Zicker and his clan have never sent a male to the orc hunt he's on a mission to find his brother/best friend and clan leader. He disappeared at the end of the last book. Instead he finds his other half his mate in a human woman who is both strong and feisty as well as vulnerable. Together they set off for Zicker's home. The journey is filled with danger new friends d's and all kinds of new feelings. Alwen starts to learn that not all males are violent or untrustworthy and Zicker learns that love and patience goes a long way to fixing a a heart. The book is such a wonderful read. You'll enjoy the story as well as the characters and it will leave you looking forward to read the next book! Highly recommend🔥💖💖🔥🔥🌟💖🌟🔥💖🌟💖🔥🌟💖🔥🌟💖🔥🌟🌟🔥💖🌟💖🔥🔥🌟💖🔥🌟🔥🌟💖🔥
This is Zickar & Alwen’s story. We met both characters in the last book. Feisty Alwen who hunts and tries to protect her family. She was hurt and carries the scars both physical and emotional. She's accused of a crime she did not commit and decides to join the orc hunt find a better way. Zicker and his clan have never sent a male to the orc hunt he's on a mission to find his brother/best friend and clan leader. He disappeared at the end of the last book. Instead he finds his other half his mate in a human woman who is both strong and feisty as well as vulnerable. Together they set off for Zicker's home. The journey is filled with danger new friends d's and all kinds of new feelings. Alwen starts to learn that not all males are violent or untrustworthy and Zicker learns that love and patience goes a long way to fixing a a heart. The book is such a wonderful read. You'll enjoy the story as well as the characters and it will leave you looking forward to read the next book! Highly recommend🔥💖💖🔥🔥🌟💖🌟🔥💖🌟💖🔥🌟💖🔥🌟💖🔥🌟🌟🔥💖🌟💖🔥🔥🌟💖🔥🌟🔥🌟💖🔥
February 17, 2024
When Alwen is selected for the mate hunt she has no plans on being a participant in the agreement between her village and the Orcs. Still recovering from a traumatic experience she trusts no males. But it’s an Orc that rescues her when she is captured by a group of men who plan on selling her. Zickar is out looking for his missing brother when he finds the human female. When his clan pendant lights up he knows he has found his mate and will do anything to protect her. This was such a sweet romance because Zickar was so patient and loving once he figured out that Alien had been abused. He took his time with her and did everything he could to show her that all males didn’t just take what they wanted. Sigh! I love this series, each couple is different and you feel as if you really get to know them. Ava Ross does an excellent job of weaving a story that keeps you glued to the pages. I received an ARC but my review is voluntary.
June 10, 2024
Rating: 4/5
Spice: 🔥.5
Trope:
Orc romance
Forced proximity
Fated mates
Plot: Alwin was apart of the same monster hunt as Lyneth (book 2) but ends up running days away from where Lyneth ended up. She ends up being captured by a human group with a stone creature (can’t remember name nor spell it). Zickar ends up finding her and the murdered orc in the cage at their campsite. Zickar thinks it’s his brother Dakur and mourns for him. At first, Zickar is not wanting a mate, only to have her bear orclings, but ends up falling in love with her. As they travel to their clan, they fall in love and help the clan with their latest problem.
Thoughts: I could’ve used more spicy scenes in this book, and i hope there’s more in the next two books. Overall, i enjoyed this book, but not as much as the first two.
Safety:
Virgin/ Celebate: technically, yes.
Cheating/sharing: no
Triggers: mention of rape by the FMC
HEA: yesss ❤️
Spice: 🔥.5
Trope:
Orc romance
Forced proximity
Fated mates
Plot: Alwin was apart of the same monster hunt as Lyneth (book 2) but ends up running days away from where Lyneth ended up. She ends up being captured by a human group with a stone creature (can’t remember name nor spell it). Zickar ends up finding her and the murdered orc in the cage at their campsite. Zickar thinks it’s his brother Dakur and mourns for him. At first, Zickar is not wanting a mate, only to have her bear orclings, but ends up falling in love with her. As they travel to their clan, they fall in love and help the clan with their latest problem.
Thoughts: I could’ve used more spicy scenes in this book, and i hope there’s more in the next two books. Overall, i enjoyed this book, but not as much as the first two.
Safety:
Virgin/ Celebate: technically, yes.
Cheating/sharing: no
Triggers: mention of rape by the FMC
HEA: yesss ❤️
February 16, 2024
Ava Ross’s Monster Mate Hunt series is fantastic! Each one provides wonderful world building, great characters, amazing adventure and lots of steaminess! Alien is released into the woods as one of the two tribute brides but is captured by human males who want to sell her off. They’ve also captured an orc but he dies of his wounds. Zickar saves Aleena and immediately his pendant alights to show they are fated mates. He doesn’t force the issue, giving her time to fall in love with him. They arrive to his homeland, homes up in the canopy of large trees and a second area in underground trees. When human females start cutting down trees and erecting a fortress nearby, the orcs must find a way to stop the habitat destruction.
May 7, 2024
I love the way that Ava depicts her characters. They build towards how they will ultimately be and they don’t just miraculously develop skills at the drop of a hat, which will invariably prompts me to put the book straight down. Alwen is a strong female. She has learnt to hunt over time and is more than capable. She is a provider not just for herself but for her family also. She is treated very badly however she does not let it beat her. Zickar is looking for his brother and had no real plans for a mate, however he could not ignore the glow of his crystal. I just loved how gentle Zickar was with her and how he didn’t just try to take over everything. He worked with her and in being himself was exactly who she needed him to be. I loved it.
January 1, 2024
Alwen does fine escaping the Mate Hunt until she is taken by men to be sold. Too bad they are killed by the same orcs who Alwen was trying to escape. Except the one who finds her isn’t even part of the group she was running from.
Zickar is on the hunt to find his leader and brother when he comes across a human female and orc blood. She tells him the orc died and they barred it days back. He kills all the bad guys then come back for her. Only to face his clan pendent flare. Adding a mate to now bring the new leader in the place of his dead brother wasn’t the plan at all.
Add in rock people, an all female tribe causing troubles and a missing pet will make this one heck of a good story.
Zickar is on the hunt to find his leader and brother when he comes across a human female and orc blood. She tells him the orc died and they barred it days back. He kills all the bad guys then come back for her. Only to face his clan pendent flare. Adding a mate to now bring the new leader in the place of his dead brother wasn’t the plan at all.
Add in rock people, an all female tribe causing troubles and a missing pet will make this one heck of a good story.
February 19, 2024
Orc’s Maiden by Ava Ross is the third book in her Monster Mate Hunt Series. This is such a wonderful series which somehow just gets better and better with each new story. Ava’s world building is second to none!
Alwen is a sweet, caring and extremely capable woman and Zickar is so protective and honorable! Together they are a perfect couple!
Throughout the story, Alwen and Zickar overcome so many obstacles together while traveling to Zickar’s clan’s home, making Orc’s Maiden brimming with action, adventure, new friends, and romance. It may be my favorite in this series so far - I highly recommend!
Alwen is a sweet, caring and extremely capable woman and Zickar is so protective and honorable! Together they are a perfect couple!
Throughout the story, Alwen and Zickar overcome so many obstacles together while traveling to Zickar’s clan’s home, making Orc’s Maiden brimming with action, adventure, new friends, and romance. It may be my favorite in this series so far - I highly recommend!
February 24, 2024
Orc's Maiden is the third book in the Monster Mate Hunt series. This book features Alwen and Zickar. Hunter Alwen survives the mate hunt and is captured by a bad bandit of thieving humans. This is where she meets Zickar, the alpha cinnamon roll 2nd in command Orc. Zickar unknowingly meets his mate and rescues her while trying to find his leader Darkur. This was an enjoyable romantic read. I love how he is patient with Alwen when she is trying to get over past trauma, encouraging and supporting her and I loved the twist at the end. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book and series.
February 23, 2024
I was wondering what happened to the other female in Book 2. She was fierce, more so in this story, her story. What's more, she also proved to be wise. I am glad that she has found her happily ever. She is also lucky to find a mate like Zickar, who has the patience of a saint.
The story did not just focus on our MCs but also delved into another orc clan, the Matis clan, introduced in Book 2. Some other interesting characters and species were introduced in this story, and I wonder about their role.
I enjoyed reading this story and the blossoming love between our MCs.
The story did not just focus on our MCs but also delved into another orc clan, the Matis clan, introduced in Book 2. Some other interesting characters and species were introduced in this story, and I wonder about their role.
I enjoyed reading this story and the blossoming love between our MCs.
February 23, 2024
Alwen grew up hearing stories that Orcs were wild beasts, yet Zickar was so gentle, kind and good to her. Her past trauma has dictated her not wanting to be around males yet she feels safe and comfortable with Zickar.
The pendant glows, Alwen is his mate, he'll be patient and hope she heals and comes to him.
Ava is a storyteller and knows how to blend danger, humor, trauma, patience, sadness, steam and courage to make the perfect tale. And she gives us a HEA and a nugget about her next story.
The pendant glows, Alwen is his mate, he'll be patient and hope she heals and comes to him.
Ava is a storyteller and knows how to blend danger, humor, trauma, patience, sadness, steam and courage to make the perfect tale. And she gives us a HEA and a nugget about her next story.
February 24, 2024
This is anther well written and engaging read for the series and I loved the matching of Zickar and Alwen. She was so strong and really determined to live her life her way. Zickar, returning from a mission, saves her and finds his pendant flare, indicating she's his fated mate. The love, gentleness and patience, he shows her lets her be the feisty mate he needs. These two had fab chemistry and I love that they get their HEA after drama, danger and twists. Good fun!
June 13, 2024
Alwen and Zickar
This is a great, well written, adventurous, Orc/Human romance. The characters are interesting, lovable, and someone you would like to meet. Alwen is chosen to go out the town’s gate to be an Orc’s bride but has many misconceptions about Orcs. She is captured by some human bandits. Zickar saves her and he announced she is his mate. She is not interested due to past trauma. Read how Zickar wins her heart.
This is a great, well written, adventurous, Orc/Human romance. The characters are interesting, lovable, and someone you would like to meet. Alwen is chosen to go out the town’s gate to be an Orc’s bride but has many misconceptions about Orcs. She is captured by some human bandits. Zickar saves her and he announced she is his mate. She is not interested due to past trauma. Read how Zickar wins her heart.
July 29, 2024
What the Fates Allow
Alwen is part of this year’s Monster Mate Hunt. She’s participating but plans to go off on her own. Since she was assaulted by a male from her village, she wants nothing to do with males , of any kind. She’s been hunting for her family and the butcher for a while now, and can fend for herself. But she didn’t plan on the Fates bringing her and Zickar together, or just how patient, kind, and honorable he could be.
Alwen is part of this year’s Monster Mate Hunt. She’s participating but plans to go off on her own. Since she was assaulted by a male from her village, she wants nothing to do with males , of any kind. She’s been hunting for her family and the butcher for a while now, and can fend for herself. But she didn’t plan on the Fates bringing her and Zickar together, or just how patient, kind, and honorable he could be.
February 13, 2024
Ava Ross is my go to author when I want to be immersed in a quality read. This new addition to her Monster Mate Hunt series is amazing. It’s a feel good book guaranteed to be uplifting! There is a bit of suspense with red hot romance. The world building continues…throw in some rock aliens and you have the perfect afternoon read. Enjoy❤️❤️❤️
February 18, 2024
Another great read in Ava Ross’s Orc world. Alwen is chosen to participate in the mate hunt, but she has no intention of letting others decide her future. But then she meets Zickar and that all changes. He is so sweet, love how caring and patient he is with Alwen. He may be a Orc but he definitely his a marshmallow when it comes to his mate.
February 20, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book, it's the third book in this Monster Mate Hunt Series. This is a wonderful series which somehow just gets better and better with each new storyline. I can't wait to read more from this series. I received this book as a Free ARC copy to read and I voluntarily leave this review.
March 22, 2024
Meh; i really liked how this one started, but overall was just okay. The repetitiveness didnt bother me quite so much this time for whatever reason (thank goodness), but the end really bothered me. The solution was to trade orc mates that they didnt even want in the first place?? Why would they agree to that? But they did. Doesnt make sense at all.
June 21, 2024
This is set so the story is developing almost alongside book 2 timeline-wise. I liked a lot of the almost mystery aspect of the story. It didn't feel like a never-ending dangling carrot, as one answer was provided for something, but eventually a new query would show up.
I'm happily enjoying this series though. I like how the banter is written between the characters in each story.
I'm happily enjoying this series though. I like how the banter is written between the characters in each story.
May 16, 2025
Ava has this uncanny ability to teach lessons while keeping you engaged and interested in the story.
Out of this entire story, what I learned is that plants and trees do feel.. I should know that... when you talk to plants, they grow beautifully..that may apply to trees too...that was an eye opener.
Out of this entire story, what I learned is that plants and trees do feel.. I should know that... when you talk to plants, they grow beautifully..that may apply to trees too...that was an eye opener.
January 23, 2026
Alwen is selected for the Monster Mate Hunt but has no wish to be anyone's mate. Zickar's clan pendant lights up when he finds Alwen and saves her from some thieves. Zickar will take his time wooing his mate as he feels she was hurt in the past. They soon find themselves falling for each other. This is a sweet and steamy romance with charming characters, lots of action and a lovely ending!
February 23, 2024
couldn’t put it down
I love this series and can’t wait for the next book. I also love the whole fated mate thing and I am hopeful that we might get a wlw story, it would make my day.
I love this series and can’t wait for the next book. I also love the whole fated mate thing and I am hopeful that we might get a wlw story, it would make my day.
February 27, 2024
Good read
Alwen is to be hunted by the orcs but she has other plans. Of course some bad guys find her and are planning to sell her. Zickar finds her helps her escape. This is not the end of their journey. Enjoy
Alwen is to be hunted by the orcs but she has other plans. Of course some bad guys find her and are planning to sell her. Zickar finds her helps her escape. This is not the end of their journey. Enjoy
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March 22, 2024Entertaining!
Orc’s Maiden is an exciting, thrilling read. I very much enjoyed Zickar and Alwen’s adventure. The new world Ava Ross has created in the Monster Mate Hunt series has you holding your breath with anticipation at every page!
Orc’s Maiden is an exciting, thrilling read. I very much enjoyed Zickar and Alwen’s adventure. The new world Ava Ross has created in the Monster Mate Hunt series has you holding your breath with anticipation at every page!
March 23, 2024
it’s good, like a fairytale.
It just seems very quaint & sweet. The Gillian’s are humans, like reality, & the good guys are a cross between Orcs & the Avatar people. It doesn’t ring unique to me. It’s not bad at all. Just not my thing. You might love it though.
It just seems very quaint & sweet. The Gillian’s are humans, like reality, & the good guys are a cross between Orcs & the Avatar people. It doesn’t ring unique to me. It’s not bad at all. Just not my thing. You might love it though.
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