What do you think?
Rate this book
Eastshore Isle #2
My Orc [Fake] Boyfriend
He’s growly, he’s green, and he’s no Prince Charming…but he’s about to save my butt!
I’m pretty sure there’s a rulebook somewhere that says the owner of a successful small-town bakery must be cheerful, friendly, and a little bit curvy, which means I’m nailing it. But my family doesn’t see it that way, especially since there’s no handsome doctor or lawyer keeping me company. They’re visiting Eastshore Isle for our summer celebration, and they’re planning to bring me a date to cure my case of singlehood.
Desperate to escape their matchmaking, I make up a story about my own knight in shining armor, and cast the grumpy, seven-foot-tall town mechanic in this role. It’s not like Cairo knows I’ve been crushing on him forever, so he has no reason to step up and help me out. But when my mother demands proof we’re actually dating…Cairo delivers.
Oh boy, does he ever.
He’s definitely not the kind of guy my family wants me to be with, and he’s clearly not really interested in me. But as we spend more time together to sell the story, I realize that we might have the secret ingredient for a perfectly sweet romance. What’s it going to take to convince my overbearing family—and Cairo himself—that the pair of us are perfect for Eastshore Isle?
This feel-good, low-angst, high heat cozy romance features the following fated Mates, grumpy/sunshine, only one bed, holiday celebrations, and small town (of course)
I’m pretty sure there’s a rulebook somewhere that says the owner of a successful small-town bakery must be cheerful, friendly, and a little bit curvy, which means I’m nailing it. But my family doesn’t see it that way, especially since there’s no handsome doctor or lawyer keeping me company. They’re visiting Eastshore Isle for our summer celebration, and they’re planning to bring me a date to cure my case of singlehood.
Desperate to escape their matchmaking, I make up a story about my own knight in shining armor, and cast the grumpy, seven-foot-tall town mechanic in this role. It’s not like Cairo knows I’ve been crushing on him forever, so he has no reason to step up and help me out. But when my mother demands proof we’re actually dating…Cairo delivers.
Oh boy, does he ever.
He’s definitely not the kind of guy my family wants me to be with, and he’s clearly not really interested in me. But as we spend more time together to sell the story, I realize that we might have the secret ingredient for a perfectly sweet romance. What’s it going to take to convince my overbearing family—and Cairo himself—that the pair of us are perfect for Eastshore Isle?
This feel-good, low-angst, high heat cozy romance features the following fated Mates, grumpy/sunshine, only one bed, holiday celebrations, and small town (of course)
200 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 5, 2024
258 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
About the author
Veronika Kane
44 books95 followersVeronika Kane is the monster-loving alter-ego of USA Today Bestselling Author Caroline Lee. One of Caroline's favorite genres to read is SciFi Romance, which led her to monster romance. When she discovered it was possible to set big, buff, delicious monsters in contemporary cozy small towns, she was sold. And that's how she ended up with a new pen name and a new series.
Welcome to the town of Eastshore Isle, the only beach town on the east coast experiencing negative population growth. You know who's going to help save the town? That's right; super-sexy, laugh-out-loud orcs.
Just like Caroline's HistRomComs, except greener.
Welcome to the town of Eastshore Isle, the only beach town on the east coast experiencing negative population growth. You know who's going to help save the town? That's right; super-sexy, laugh-out-loud orcs.
Just like Caroline's HistRomComs, except greener.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
July 7, 2024
My Orc (Fake) Boyfriend by Veronika Kane
Eastshore Isle series #2. Paranormal erotic romance. 1st person, alternating between Melinda and Cairo. Can be read as a stand-alone romance but characters from the first are in this book, and this one takes place after the first.
Melinda O’Donnell owns the bakery on Eastshore Isle. She’s happy with her success but her wealthy family coming to visit in July expects to set her up with a doctor or lawyer and have her moving back home. Impulsively, Meli tells her family she has a boyfriend and she’ll stay with him while they are in town.
Cairo is an Orc. He’s lived and worked as a mechanic on Eastshore for years and enjoys picking up cupcakes from the bakery a couple times a week. Usually the place is closing when he shows up, but this time there are several people in the store and he’s shocked when Meli announces they are a couple and he finds himself in a lip lock with her!
Meli needs to convince her family that Cairo is her choice, while he needs to convince her to be his mate.
Feel good, low angst, high heat romance with fated mates, one bed, grumpy sunshine, all in a small town setting.
Entertaining and a steamy quick read. A humorous version of monster porn without anything extra.
Eastshore Isle series #2. Paranormal erotic romance. 1st person, alternating between Melinda and Cairo. Can be read as a stand-alone romance but characters from the first are in this book, and this one takes place after the first.
Melinda O’Donnell owns the bakery on Eastshore Isle. She’s happy with her success but her wealthy family coming to visit in July expects to set her up with a doctor or lawyer and have her moving back home. Impulsively, Meli tells her family she has a boyfriend and she’ll stay with him while they are in town.
Cairo is an Orc. He’s lived and worked as a mechanic on Eastshore for years and enjoys picking up cupcakes from the bakery a couple times a week. Usually the place is closing when he shows up, but this time there are several people in the store and he’s shocked when Meli announces they are a couple and he finds himself in a lip lock with her!
Meli needs to convince her family that Cairo is her choice, while he needs to convince her to be his mate.
Feel good, low angst, high heat romance with fated mates, one bed, grumpy sunshine, all in a small town setting.
Entertaining and a steamy quick read. A humorous version of monster porn without anything extra.
dnf
July 14, 2024Skimmed.
Time of death: 90% / Epilogue
Time of death: 90% / Epilogue
July 13, 2024
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Humor: Yes
Perspective: first person from both hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium to fast
When mains are first on page together: Not too far in, about 6% (chapter 1)
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes and there’s also a free extended epilogue you can grab
Format: read the book through Kindle Unlimited
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
These are readable alone but there is some character cross over and I feel like the if you read in order you get to know the town and the orc history a bit better.
Basic plot:
When Meli’s parents try to hook her up with a doctor she’s not interested in, she ropes Cairo in to be her fake boyfriend for their visit to Eastshore.
Give this a try if you want:
- contemporary Earth setting
- fantasy vibes – it’s Earth but with Orcs!
- small town – Eastshore Isle location
- baker heroine
- car mechanic hero
- grumpy and sunshine dynamic
- one bed
- fake relationship
- medium to higher steam – 4 scenes in about a 200 page count novel
Ages:
- hero is around 30, didn’t catch heroine
First line:
“Do you always frost your strawberry cupcakes with little hearts?”
My thoughts:
This one is officially my favorite of the series! I am here for alllll Cairo and Meli’s mutual pining. Fake relationship is such a fun trope to me – seeing them fall into these couple activities while also holding back because of that uncertainty – I just eat it up.
Cairo is a bit of a quiet ‘grump’ – more goes on under the surface than anyone knows. And the way he melts for Meli is just so sweet. Meli is such a lovable heroine – I love how Cairo lifts her up and helps her find her confidence with her family that loves her but pushes her for their own path without seeing her. They bring out the best in each other and were such a delight to get to know. Very sweet characters and my new fave of the series.
Few random reading stats for this author (as Veronika Kane and not including her Caroline Lee pen name)
# of books read: 3
Average rating: 5 stars
Favorite book: My Orc (Fake) Boyfriend
Cock/Hero Stats:
Endearments
Quotes/thoughts: (Any mistakes are my own)
Content warnings: (This should be taken as a minimum because I could have missed some!)
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdowns mean, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Humor: Yes
Perspective: first person from both hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium to fast
When mains are first on page together: Not too far in, about 6% (chapter 1)
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes and there’s also a free extended epilogue you can grab
Format: read the book through Kindle Unlimited
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
These are readable alone but there is some character cross over and I feel like the if you read in order you get to know the town and the orc history a bit better.
Basic plot:
When Meli’s parents try to hook her up with a doctor she’s not interested in, she ropes Cairo in to be her fake boyfriend for their visit to Eastshore.
Give this a try if you want:
- contemporary Earth setting
- fantasy vibes – it’s Earth but with Orcs!
- small town – Eastshore Isle location
- baker heroine
- car mechanic hero
- grumpy and sunshine dynamic
- one bed
- fake relationship
- medium to higher steam – 4 scenes in about a 200 page count novel
Ages:
- hero is around 30, didn’t catch heroine
First line:
“Do you always frost your strawberry cupcakes with little hearts?”
My thoughts:
This one is officially my favorite of the series! I am here for alllll Cairo and Meli’s mutual pining. Fake relationship is such a fun trope to me – seeing them fall into these couple activities while also holding back because of that uncertainty – I just eat it up.
Cairo is a bit of a quiet ‘grump’ – more goes on under the surface than anyone knows. And the way he melts for Meli is just so sweet. Meli is such a lovable heroine – I love how Cairo lifts her up and helps her find her confidence with her family that loves her but pushes her for their own path without seeing her. They bring out the best in each other and were such a delight to get to know. Very sweet characters and my new fave of the series.
Few random reading stats for this author (as Veronika Kane and not including her Caroline Lee pen name)
# of books read: 3
Average rating: 5 stars
Favorite book: My Orc (Fake) Boyfriend
Cock/Hero Stats:
Endearments
Quotes/thoughts: (Any mistakes are my own)
Content warnings: (This should be taken as a minimum because I could have missed some!)
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdowns mean, where to find me, and book clubs
November 27, 2025
3.4 stars.
This is super cute and safe.
HOWEVER, I'm grumpy because he leaves her alone at a pivotal time and she is the first one to declare herself. It felt like he hurt her for no good reason and I don't like that.
This is super cute and safe.
HOWEVER, I'm grumpy because he leaves her alone at a pivotal time and she is the first one to declare herself. It felt like he hurt her for no good reason and I don't like that.
June 28, 2024
I loved Jess and Karnak with my whole soul, so I don't know how Veronika managed to make me love Meli and Cairo even more, like how is that possible?? They are so cute and I love them. Meli is literally screaming "but daddy I love him" and it's perfect.
I am always a sucker for grumpy/sunshine, I eat that up. Add in my one of my favorite micro tropes of small business owners (baker and a mechanic??) I am eating out of the palm of her hand, my guys. Leaving no crumbs. Asking for more.
I loved learning about the other orcs, and I cant wait for their stories. A single dad? A himbo, golden retriever? An older tattoo artist? Excited already!
I am always a sucker for grumpy/sunshine, I eat that up. Add in my one of my favorite micro tropes of small business owners (baker and a mechanic??) I am eating out of the palm of her hand, my guys. Leaving no crumbs. Asking for more.
I loved learning about the other orcs, and I cant wait for their stories. A single dad? A himbo, golden retriever? An older tattoo artist? Excited already!
June 30, 2024
Eastshore Isle is my happy place!
Like the first book in this series, My Orc Next Door, and the novella that took place in this world, My Orc Bodyguard, the cover is SUPER CUTE! I love this continued quirky art style that is a great feel for what the town is: Full of heart, color, and ORCS!
Speaking of full of orcs, I loved how this book expanded on the Orc community in Eastshore. The timeline of this story is after Jess and Karnak have been married and single “dad” Sakkara and “daughter” Emmy, the possible himbo Lux, and tattooist and memory-preserver Giza have come to Eastshore. We got to “meet” all of these orcs “in person” in this book, and I’m super excited to see where all of their stories go, especially since they all seem so different!!! I still cannot wait to see the single father romance that Sakkara gets!!! Why do I have a feeling we’re going to be waiting on his because it’s going to be the best 🤣
Similar to book 1, we got a bit more information on the Orcs like the fact that they are immune to most human illnesses, why they were all named after sites along the Nile, and how Orcs can change their names several times in their lives as they go through new phases.
In this book we also met Meli’s sister, Harper, who despite being a copy of their mom in a lot of ways definitely stood up for Meli where it counted. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I’m hoping we see more of her “participating” in Eastshore activities going forward. We met Meli’s mom, who is quite the piece of work and created a lot of Meli’s insecurities, but who doesn’t love a character to dislike? Lastly, we met Meli’s dad and I absolutely loved their dynamic. The fact that Meli wanted to end up with an intelligent man because her father modeled the importance of a brain, hit so close to home for me personally.
I absolutely adored Meli, like I knew I would after seeing her in book 1! She was just adorable with her inappropriate jokes, ability to forgive easily, and strong love for Eastshore. I also loved that we got a plus-size FMC rep in this book, with stretchmarks and everything! Also, Cairo remarking that she was tall enough that he wouldn’t hurt his neck when he bent down to kiss her was great for this fellow tallish woman to see (5’8” tall still, right?!).
I also really enjoyed Cairo. I thought Karnak was grumpy in book 1, but he had nothing on Cairo! I loved watching him fall for Meli and the fact that he would go into her shop 3 times a week even before they started fake dating. He definitely sems the most jaded of the bunch so far, and I have a feeling he will keep that schtick. Also, his praise kink was on fucking point! More to come on that below.
Something I noticed in this book is how well the author does of creating different voices for the FMC and MMC. Although this is dual POV and each character has their own chapters, it was super easy to tell in the middle of a chapter whose chapter it still was. Cairo had a very direct, blunt voice while Meli had a very flitty, bubbly voice.
Like book 1, this thing was full of humor and spice! Here is a glimpse of my favorite spicy scene:
Can’t wait for the next installment in Eastshore!!
4.5 stars!
Thank you to Veronika Kane for the opportunity to read a copy of this story. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
Like the first book in this series, My Orc Next Door, and the novella that took place in this world, My Orc Bodyguard, the cover is SUPER CUTE! I love this continued quirky art style that is a great feel for what the town is: Full of heart, color, and ORCS!
Speaking of full of orcs, I loved how this book expanded on the Orc community in Eastshore. The timeline of this story is after Jess and Karnak have been married and single “dad” Sakkara and “daughter” Emmy, the possible himbo Lux, and tattooist and memory-preserver Giza have come to Eastshore. We got to “meet” all of these orcs “in person” in this book, and I’m super excited to see where all of their stories go, especially since they all seem so different!!! I still cannot wait to see the single father romance that Sakkara gets!!! Why do I have a feeling we’re going to be waiting on his because it’s going to be the best 🤣
Similar to book 1, we got a bit more information on the Orcs like the fact that they are immune to most human illnesses, why they were all named after sites along the Nile, and how Orcs can change their names several times in their lives as they go through new phases.
In this book we also met Meli’s sister, Harper, who despite being a copy of their mom in a lot of ways definitely stood up for Meli where it counted. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I’m hoping we see more of her “participating” in Eastshore activities going forward. We met Meli’s mom, who is quite the piece of work and created a lot of Meli’s insecurities, but who doesn’t love a character to dislike? Lastly, we met Meli’s dad and I absolutely loved their dynamic. The fact that Meli wanted to end up with an intelligent man because her father modeled the importance of a brain, hit so close to home for me personally.
I absolutely adored Meli, like I knew I would after seeing her in book 1! She was just adorable with her inappropriate jokes, ability to forgive easily, and strong love for Eastshore. I also loved that we got a plus-size FMC rep in this book, with stretchmarks and everything! Also, Cairo remarking that she was tall enough that he wouldn’t hurt his neck when he bent down to kiss her was great for this fellow tallish woman to see (5’8” tall still, right?!).
I also really enjoyed Cairo. I thought Karnak was grumpy in book 1, but he had nothing on Cairo! I loved watching him fall for Meli and the fact that he would go into her shop 3 times a week even before they started fake dating. He definitely sems the most jaded of the bunch so far, and I have a feeling he will keep that schtick. Also, his praise kink was on fucking point! More to come on that below.
Something I noticed in this book is how well the author does of creating different voices for the FMC and MMC. Although this is dual POV and each character has their own chapters, it was super easy to tell in the middle of a chapter whose chapter it still was. Cairo had a very direct, blunt voice while Meli had a very flitty, bubbly voice.
Like book 1, this thing was full of humor and spice! Here is a glimpse of my favorite spicy scene:
Cairo: “So fucking perfect, sweetheart. You’re doing such a good job.”
I wanted more. I reached for him, and he leaned forward, bracing one arm against the mattress so I could twine my arms around his neck as he slammed into me.
Cairo: “You feel that? You feel the way your body is milking me?” he whispered harshly. “You’re so ready to come again, aren’t you, Cupcake?”
Oh god, I really was.
He reached between us to brush his thumb against my clit again.
Cairo: “Make me proud, sweetheart.”
Can’t wait for the next installment in Eastshore!!
4.5 stars!
Thank you to Veronika Kane for the opportunity to read a copy of this story. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
February 22, 2026
Fake dating orc romance novel with a one week I love you gate and the most unbelievable part is how much this grown woman calls her father “daddy”
August 5, 2024
So much fun to read!
I was so absorbed in this wonderful world that I stayed up too late just to finish it Cairo and Melissa are just so cute together and just quirky enough to feel normal. She has a mom that undervalued her and he just wants to be alone. The way they come together is cute. I love the way their relationship builds and how rejection or acceptance is built into the whole plot! Absolutely addictive! I'm totally in love with this series!
I was so absorbed in this wonderful world that I stayed up too late just to finish it Cairo and Melissa are just so cute together and just quirky enough to feel normal. She has a mom that undervalued her and he just wants to be alone. The way they come together is cute. I love the way their relationship builds and how rejection or acceptance is built into the whole plot! Absolutely addictive! I'm totally in love with this series!
August 26, 2024
After reading this book, I want to move to Eastshore. I feel like I'm a part of the town. Meli owns the town bakery. She didn't follow in her family's footsteps. When her sister and mother show up unexpectedly and try to set her up, she tells them that she's dating an Orc. Cairo usually keeps to himself, but he stops by Meli's bakery every day. He becomes Meli's perfect "boyfriend." Cairo helps Meli by letting her stay with him to keep up appearances for her family.
This a fast, fun read. It has some steamy parts. I have enjoyed this series and already preordered the next book.
This a fast, fun read. It has some steamy parts. I have enjoyed this series and already preordered the next book.
July 21, 2025
Super cute and full of spice! This book in the series follows Cairo and Meli and their journey falling for one another. The plot involves a fake dating scheme that evolves into so much more for both of them. But they don’t communicate that to one another and make assumptions about what the other is feeling. Which is incredibly frustrating from this end of things. Obviously, this has a HEA ending for these characters and the population on the island is continuing to grow with new residents from the magical community. I can’t wait to see how the next orc finds love! If you can’t tell, I would definitely recommend this book and series.
February 1, 2026
Eastshore Isle series #2
Paranormal erotic romance
The story and character building around Meli and Cairo
This was super cute and spicy with steamy scenes
Fake Dating
This was a interconnected standalone series.
On to the next book
Paranormal erotic romance
The story and character building around Meli and Cairo
This was super cute and spicy with steamy scenes
Fake Dating
This was a interconnected standalone series.
On to the next book
November 7, 2024
"My Orc (Fake) Boyfriend" is book two in the "Eastshore Isle" series by Veronika Kane. This series gets better with each book. This book is about Cairo and Melinda. Cairo is a very grumpy orc, and Melinda runs a baker. Melinda's family is trying to set her up with someone, so she tells them she has a boyfriend, and when Cairo walks in, he is the lucky guy to pretend she is dating. Cairo is a very grumpy guy and wonders what the heck he is getting himself into, but then he starts having things happen to him, and he has to find out what is going on. My favorite part is when she talks about her mom doing the "broken wrist" thing. I laughed so hard because I knew exactly what she was talking about. I absolutely love Veronika's humor. She writes so well and has a way of sucking you in and wanting the story to keep going. Can't wait to read on in this series.
February 4, 2025
I loved Cairo and Mel. The grumpy/Sunshine is always a fun story, and I loved seeing how much Cairo twisted himself to help, and stay involved. Cairo is my second favorite Orc in this series - I love a grumpy guy.
January 2, 2026
Decided it was time for me to take a trip back to Eastshore Isle for the third time. I really like the humor that Veronika Kane uses in her books and I always have fun reading them. My Orc (Fake) Boyfriend follows Meli as she lies to her overbearing mother about having a boyfriend and Cairo as he comes to her bakery at the exact same time she is telling the lie, leading her to claim him as her (fake) boyfriend. I really enjoyed Meli finding her confidence in her job and in speaking up against her family and I really liked how soft Cairo was with her even though he was like the town grump.
February 2, 2025
I liked this one. The cover art almost kept me away though. Far too cartoony for my likings.
It was a fun read where the conflict was mostly caused by external forces meddling. Melinda owns her own bakery in a small town on an island where orcs were invited to settle. She's been harboring a bit of a crush on one of her orc regulars, Cairo. He's tall, with washboard abs and a near permanent scowl on his face. Delicious. Melinda uses him as a taste tester for her newest creations. So when he inadvertently steps into the bakery while her visiting mother is trying to step her up with a foot doctor, Melinda lunges at him, and begs him to play along with her eyes, as she announces he's her boyfriend so so couldn't possibly date a foot doctor.
Cairo has also been harboring a secret crush on Melinda, so when she announces he's her boyfriend, he gladly plays along, even stealing a kiss for himself in front of her unimpressed mother. Because of said mother, Melinda is forced to stay with him for a few days and that's when the months of secret lusting on both their parts concludes with them getting it on...eventually. lol
things to note:
Melinda's mother drives a lot of the plot. She shows up and tells her daughter her life isn't good enough, basically, and tries to force her to date a foot doctor from closer to 'home', forcing Meli to use Cairo as a orc shield. Melinda staying at Cairo's and progressing their relationship into something real, also her mother's fault. The brief break they took was her father's fault, but I would bet her mother was talking all negative about their relationship to her husband and that probably helped facilitate the odd behaviour from her father.
So,
terrible mother
feelings of being inadequate
body shaming on the low down
no condom
orc d*ck
racism against orcs
fated mates
one bed
grumpy/sunshine
fake relationship
Pretty well written, with a decent amount of spice, I plan on trying another book from the series!
It was a fun read where the conflict was mostly caused by external forces meddling. Melinda owns her own bakery in a small town on an island where orcs were invited to settle. She's been harboring a bit of a crush on one of her orc regulars, Cairo. He's tall, with washboard abs and a near permanent scowl on his face. Delicious. Melinda uses him as a taste tester for her newest creations. So when he inadvertently steps into the bakery while her visiting mother is trying to step her up with a foot doctor, Melinda lunges at him, and begs him to play along with her eyes, as she announces he's her boyfriend so so couldn't possibly date a foot doctor.
Cairo has also been harboring a secret crush on Melinda, so when she announces he's her boyfriend, he gladly plays along, even stealing a kiss for himself in front of her unimpressed mother. Because of said mother, Melinda is forced to stay with him for a few days and that's when the months of secret lusting on both their parts concludes with them getting it on...eventually. lol
things to note:
Melinda's mother drives a lot of the plot. She shows up and tells her daughter her life isn't good enough, basically, and tries to force her to date a foot doctor from closer to 'home', forcing Meli to use Cairo as a orc shield. Melinda staying at Cairo's and progressing their relationship into something real, also her mother's fault. The brief break they took was her father's fault, but I would bet her mother was talking all negative about their relationship to her husband and that probably helped facilitate the odd behaviour from her father.
So,
terrible mother
feelings of being inadequate
body shaming on the low down
no condom
orc d*ck
racism against orcs
fated mates
one bed
grumpy/sunshine
fake relationship
Pretty well written, with a decent amount of spice, I plan on trying another book from the series!
June 29, 2024
I discovered Veronika's orcs and her cozy town one book ago, and I realized I do enjoy small-town romance. Since then, I've developed a real soft spot for these stories. They have become my new go-to palate cleanser after diving into so many intense dark romances. Meli and Cairo's story is an absolute treat—a sweet escape into the quaint town of Eastshore Isle, where every page offers a perfect blend of charm and warmth. I love how Veronika has created a picturesque little town that feels alive and vibrant. She made me feel like I want to move there🧳. The heartwarming romance budding between each character, woven around this cozy setting, is just what I needed—pure feel-good, low-angst goodness with that irresistible grumpy/sunshine dynamic. As a reader, nothing makes me happier than a book that delivers exactly what it promises. This one gave me all the Hallmark movie vibes I crave.
Meli doesn't need a charming prince—why would she when she has Cairo? A grumpy orc he may be, but he's perfect, especially when he acknowledges Meli's worth, effort, kindness, and beauty. And Meli, god, I love how she stood up for Cairo. Now, don't get me wrong, it's low angst, but Meli's mom makes you roll your eyes whenever she opens her mouth.
Meli and Cairo tried to fake it, oh god, they tried. From one kiss to another, until Meli's decision to take the first step made things spicier! Well, there was no faking it anymore. And I love the introduction of the new character. I'm curious to get to know Lux and whatever he's hiding behind those golden retriever charms.
I will definitely try that coffee and chocolate bar drink in the morning. It might help me be nicer to people around me 😁.
Aaaand what happened to Harper? Why did she break off her wedding to Simon after her visit to Eastshore? Did she want her own orc? I wouldn't blame her.😏
Meli doesn't need a charming prince—why would she when she has Cairo? A grumpy orc he may be, but he's perfect, especially when he acknowledges Meli's worth, effort, kindness, and beauty. And Meli, god, I love how she stood up for Cairo. Now, don't get me wrong, it's low angst, but Meli's mom makes you roll your eyes whenever she opens her mouth.
Meli and Cairo tried to fake it, oh god, they tried. From one kiss to another, until Meli's decision to take the first step made things spicier! Well, there was no faking it anymore. And I love the introduction of the new character. I'm curious to get to know Lux and whatever he's hiding behind those golden retriever charms.
I will definitely try that coffee and chocolate bar drink in the morning. It might help me be nicer to people around me 😁.
Aaaand what happened to Harper? Why did she break off her wedding to Simon after her visit to Eastshore? Did she want her own orc? I wouldn't blame her.😏
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2024
Second book in the Eastshore Isle contemporary romance series, with a story as cute, fluffy, and packed with steam as the first, and perfect to read right before the Fourth of July weekend. Meli, the cute and curvaceous baker and sweet shoppe owner, has had a crush on Cairo, one of Eastshore's orcs and resident mechanic, for a while. Cairo is a grumpy hero, and at least some of that is because he's ready to settle down and hasn't found his Mate yet. But when Meli's family comes to visit for the July 4th holiday, she ropes Cairo into agreeing to be her fake boyfriend to avoid the machinations of her mother. What started as a ruse soon turns into a serious relationship for both Meli and Cairo, both of whom haven't experienced this depth of feeling for another person before. This story was fun, low-stakes, and perfect for the lazy, hot days of summer. Meli's baking creations are described so wonderfully that my mouth was watering and I took several breaks while reading to Google recipes (I mean, strawberry cupcakes with strawberry frosting - yes, please!). More history of the orcs is sprinkled throughout this story through interactions with other characters and introductions to more of the orcs settling on Eastshore Isle through Jess's initiative, which in a way that makes the world-building gentler than many other books and totally enjoyable.
Age gap: Not explicitly stated, both characters likely in early to mid-30s. Mention that once Cairo turned 30, his Kteer (part of orc biology) started "thinking impossible things."
SFCP (safe for childless people); main characters do not get pregnant/have a baby. Brief mention of desiring children/kits. Recently Mated characters also do not get pregnant/have a baby.
I received an ARC version of this book in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
Age gap: Not explicitly stated, both characters likely in early to mid-30s. Mention that once Cairo turned 30, his Kteer (part of orc biology) started "thinking impossible things."
SFCP (safe for childless people); main characters do not get pregnant/have a baby. Brief mention of desiring children/kits. Recently Mated characters also do not get pregnant/have a baby.
I received an ARC version of this book in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
June 27, 2025
My Orc (Fake) Boyfriend is #2 in an interconnected standalone series, this is the first of the books i'd read but i'm 100% going to dive into the rest of them!!
I really love Cairo and Meli, the true definition of Grumpy/Sunshine. Cairo is the local Orc mechanic, a true genius with machines, he's a bit of an introvert--not at all one for socializing which he states point blank in one scene. Meli, Melinda, is the owner of a local bakeshop or really the only bakeshop on the island and she is quite the ray of sunshine who has a bit of (read MASSIVE) crush on the broody Orc.
Cairo comes in before closing multiple days a week and Meli always has special cupcakes waiting just for him, and one day he also gets more than he's bargained for. Meli's mother and sister stop by early for their visit, they were supposed to be coming for the fourth of July but came early--surprise! Her mother loves her but is quite overbearing, holding certain beliefs about certain things like Meli's dating life. She's trying to set her up, so Meli panics and says she's been seeing someone, enter poor Cairo coming for his sweet treats and boom he's her fake boyfriend now!
This just spirals so sweetly and is totally an easy cozy small-town read that also has just the right amount of spice. I really adore this cast of characters and can't wait to see their own stories coming to life in the other interconnected standalones! I can't really say there's anyhting more I wanted out of the story, this was just the perfect easy breezy read.
I really love Cairo and Meli, the true definition of Grumpy/Sunshine. Cairo is the local Orc mechanic, a true genius with machines, he's a bit of an introvert--not at all one for socializing which he states point blank in one scene. Meli, Melinda, is the owner of a local bakeshop or really the only bakeshop on the island and she is quite the ray of sunshine who has a bit of (read MASSIVE) crush on the broody Orc.
Cairo comes in before closing multiple days a week and Meli always has special cupcakes waiting just for him, and one day he also gets more than he's bargained for. Meli's mother and sister stop by early for their visit, they were supposed to be coming for the fourth of July but came early--surprise! Her mother loves her but is quite overbearing, holding certain beliefs about certain things like Meli's dating life. She's trying to set her up, so Meli panics and says she's been seeing someone, enter poor Cairo coming for his sweet treats and boom he's her fake boyfriend now!
This just spirals so sweetly and is totally an easy cozy small-town read that also has just the right amount of spice. I really adore this cast of characters and can't wait to see their own stories coming to life in the other interconnected standalones! I can't really say there's anyhting more I wanted out of the story, this was just the perfect easy breezy read.
July 7, 2024
Meli is the owner of a bakery in Eastshore, a sleepy gem of a coastal town whose council - among whom is Meli’s best friend Jess - has recently begun making strides to welcome beings of the not human variety to live and flourish there. Meli has had a major crush on a hunky but scowly mechanic who just so happens to be a non-human being. Her family is pressuring her into attending her sister’s upcoming wedding with someone she’s not attracted to, so in desperation she tells them she already has someone in her life.
Cairo is a hot, seven foot tall mechanically inclined orc who admires both Meli’s baled goods and her luscious curves. When he unwittingly walks in on Meli’s mother and sister waiting expectantly on her to tell them who her mystery boyfriend is, Meli grabs an all too willing Cairo and kisses him silly.
This was a super cute, spicy novella which would be a perfect alternative summer beach read. A confection of sweetness with just the right amount of sizzle, it also depicts unwavering friendships not just between Meli and Jess, but also among the orc brotherhood. It’s part of a series but stands on its own in terms of beginning, middle, and conclusion.
I was fortunate to have been given an advance reader copy from the author and bookfunnel, and I’m sharing my honest review.
Cairo is a hot, seven foot tall mechanically inclined orc who admires both Meli’s baled goods and her luscious curves. When he unwittingly walks in on Meli’s mother and sister waiting expectantly on her to tell them who her mystery boyfriend is, Meli grabs an all too willing Cairo and kisses him silly.
This was a super cute, spicy novella which would be a perfect alternative summer beach read. A confection of sweetness with just the right amount of sizzle, it also depicts unwavering friendships not just between Meli and Jess, but also among the orc brotherhood. It’s part of a series but stands on its own in terms of beginning, middle, and conclusion.
I was fortunate to have been given an advance reader copy from the author and bookfunnel, and I’m sharing my honest review.
June 26, 2024
4.5 stars. Meli(nda), the female human baker lead, is being hassled by her mother for not being “successful” enough, either in her business or personal life. When she threatens to bring a blind date to the island, Meli claims Cairo, the male orc mechanic lead, as her boyfriend.
Cairo has been attracted to Meli for a long time but it’s only when she ends up living in his house, pretending to be his girlfriend, that he realises she’s his mate. But she’s given him no indication that she wants anything permanent nor that she feels anything similar for him.
Meli knows she wants Cairo but the pressure from her family is significant…
This novella is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, contemporary fantasy romance. I enjoyed Meli’s career success and that she had established her own business, without family support. I enjoyed Cairo’s grumpy presentation, which was his coping method, and his cleverness and mechanical skill. I enjoyed their relationship development, and the support and encouragement they gave each other. I enjoyed their steamy intimate scenes. I enjoyed the secondary characters, especially Meli’s sister and the other orcs.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Cairo has been attracted to Meli for a long time but it’s only when she ends up living in his house, pretending to be his girlfriend, that he realises she’s his mate. But she’s given him no indication that she wants anything permanent nor that she feels anything similar for him.
Meli knows she wants Cairo but the pressure from her family is significant…
This novella is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, contemporary fantasy romance. I enjoyed Meli’s career success and that she had established her own business, without family support. I enjoyed Cairo’s grumpy presentation, which was his coping method, and his cleverness and mechanical skill. I enjoyed their relationship development, and the support and encouragement they gave each other. I enjoyed their steamy intimate scenes. I enjoyed the secondary characters, especially Meli’s sister and the other orcs.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
August 20, 2024
Rating: 5/5
Spice: 2/5
Source: [x] kindle unlimited [_] physical book
Trope:
✨ fake relationship
✨ small town
✨ grumpy x sunshine
✨ one bed
Plot:
Melinda O’Donnell owns the bakery on Eastshore Isle. She’s happy with her success but her wealthy family coming to visit in July expects to set her up with a doctor or lawyer and have her moving back home. Impulsively, Meli tells her family she has a boyfriend and she’ll stay with him while they are in town.
Cairo is an Orc. He’s lived and worked as a mechanic on Eastshore for years and enjoys picking up cupcakes from the bakery a couple times a week. Usually the place is closing when he shows up, but this time there are several people in the store and he’s shocked when Meli announces they are a couple and he finds himself in a lip lock with her!
Meli needs to convince her family that Cairo is her choice, while he needs to convince her to be his mate.
Thoughts: I loved this book. I love how Mel could soften Cairo and get him to smile.
Safety:
Virgin/ Celebate: no
Cheating/sharing: no
Triggers: - some toxic parental aspects - mention of torture and scientists studying orcs
HEA: yesssss
Spice: 2/5
Source: [x] kindle unlimited [_] physical book
Trope:
✨ fake relationship
✨ small town
✨ grumpy x sunshine
✨ one bed
Plot:
Melinda O’Donnell owns the bakery on Eastshore Isle. She’s happy with her success but her wealthy family coming to visit in July expects to set her up with a doctor or lawyer and have her moving back home. Impulsively, Meli tells her family she has a boyfriend and she’ll stay with him while they are in town.
Cairo is an Orc. He’s lived and worked as a mechanic on Eastshore for years and enjoys picking up cupcakes from the bakery a couple times a week. Usually the place is closing when he shows up, but this time there are several people in the store and he’s shocked when Meli announces they are a couple and he finds himself in a lip lock with her!
Meli needs to convince her family that Cairo is her choice, while he needs to convince her to be his mate.
Thoughts: I loved this book. I love how Mel could soften Cairo and get him to smile.
Safety:
Virgin/ Celebate: no
Cheating/sharing: no
Triggers: - some toxic parental aspects - mention of torture and scientists studying orcs
HEA: yesssss
July 23, 2025
Okay, just throwing it out there, I love Meli and her sense of humor. Such a dirty mind wrapped up in a curvy, bubbly package. 😉 Her mom, on the other hand, being the self-important twat that she is, can kindly go take a flying leap off of a very tall cliff. I'm not crazy about her dad either and his initial reaction to Cairo. Even if it was understandable from a girl-dad standpoint, his reaction still came off as classist at best and species-ist at worst. Meli's sister Harper is the only decent one in the bunch, which is why it's kinda disappointing that her story isn't next in the series.
But anywho, back to Meli. She and Cairo were very good together, sizzling with chemistry while being sweet with how they constantly looked after each other in their own ways. Speaking of which, the way Cairo kept fixing things around Meli's bakery seriously gave me Luke and Lorelai vibes from Gilmore Girls. 😍 So far, Cairo is my favorite of the Eastshore Isle orcs. I can't resist a grumpy hero, especially when paired with a sweet, bubbly heroine. Throw in the ol' reliable trope of friends-for-years-and-now-forced-to-confront-our-feelings-thanks-to-a-fake-relationship, and I am all in. (Whoops, an accidental Luke and Lorelai reference. LOL 😄)
Overall Verdict: 9 cupcake-shaped sandcastles out of 10
But anywho, back to Meli. She and Cairo were very good together, sizzling with chemistry while being sweet with how they constantly looked after each other in their own ways. Speaking of which, the way Cairo kept fixing things around Meli's bakery seriously gave me Luke and Lorelai vibes from Gilmore Girls. 😍 So far, Cairo is my favorite of the Eastshore Isle orcs. I can't resist a grumpy hero, especially when paired with a sweet, bubbly heroine. Throw in the ol' reliable trope of friends-for-years-and-now-forced-to-confront-our-feelings-thanks-to-a-fake-relationship, and I am all in. (Whoops, an accidental Luke and Lorelai reference. LOL 😄)
Overall Verdict: 9 cupcake-shaped sandcastles out of 10
July 2, 2024
This is the second book in the Eastshore Island series that I have read. The author, Veronika, has a wonderful ability to describe the landscape and people. I wish it was an actual place to visit.
I enjoyed this book a little better than the first in the series. I do highly recommend "My Orc Next Door" as Karnak and Jess do appear in this book and it's a really good story. My Orc Fake Boyfrirnd goes into more detail about the Orcs ordeal into human society. We are also introduced to several new Orc and human characters. I can't wait till we read about their stories!
The book about Meli and Cairo is a good love story with several steamy scenes. They might have been sensually attracted to each other in the beginning, but like her previous book the characters develop an appreciation and understanding of each other.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and give a voluntarily review
I enjoyed this book a little better than the first in the series. I do highly recommend "My Orc Next Door" as Karnak and Jess do appear in this book and it's a really good story. My Orc Fake Boyfrirnd goes into more detail about the Orcs ordeal into human society. We are also introduced to several new Orc and human characters. I can't wait till we read about their stories!
The book about Meli and Cairo is a good love story with several steamy scenes. They might have been sensually attracted to each other in the beginning, but like her previous book the characters develop an appreciation and understanding of each other.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and give a voluntarily review
September 2, 2024
Oil Her Gears
I knew when I read the blurb at the end of book 1 that I was going to enjoy this book. Cairo is an Orc and the island’s only mechanic. He is so grumpy and everyone thinks he’s mean. Meli is the town baker, a ray of sunshine and bubbly laughter. When her overbearing, snobbish Mother comes to visit for the holidays with plans to match her with her soon to be brother in laws’ brother, Meli impulsively claims that Cairo is her new boyfriend. Fake or not, each has been crushing on the other and things quickly become heated. Forced proximity ones next and Mel’s need to prove herself to her family almost ruins everything. But when Cairo realizes she’s his mate all bets are off! I was enchanted with the island and the residents and would love to read more. I really enjoyed the story and the heat.
I knew when I read the blurb at the end of book 1 that I was going to enjoy this book. Cairo is an Orc and the island’s only mechanic. He is so grumpy and everyone thinks he’s mean. Meli is the town baker, a ray of sunshine and bubbly laughter. When her overbearing, snobbish Mother comes to visit for the holidays with plans to match her with her soon to be brother in laws’ brother, Meli impulsively claims that Cairo is her new boyfriend. Fake or not, each has been crushing on the other and things quickly become heated. Forced proximity ones next and Mel’s need to prove herself to her family almost ruins everything. But when Cairo realizes she’s his mate all bets are off! I was enchanted with the island and the residents and would love to read more. I really enjoyed the story and the heat.
July 10, 2025
“That’s because you’re my good girl, aren’t you?”
Turns out I have a praise kink.
✔️cozy monster romance vibes
✔️orc MMC x human FMC
✔️fated mates
✔️grumpy x sunshine
✔️low angst
✔️small coastal town
3.75⭐️ rounded up
This book was really cute, and I enjoyed it much more than the first in the series. Of course, this is a monster romcom, and you need to completely suspend your disbelief and not take it too seriously, but I can actually see this couple making it work long term. Almost all of the conflict (especially in the third act) is caused by the FMC’s family (their expectations of her and racism toward orcs).
Overall this is a lighthearted spicy monster romance, and though it is an interconnected standalone I do recommend reading them in order to more fully understand Orc culture and who all of the side characters are. This was a fun quick read!
Turns out I have a praise kink.
✔️cozy monster romance vibes
✔️orc MMC x human FMC
✔️fated mates
✔️grumpy x sunshine
✔️low angst
✔️small coastal town
3.75⭐️ rounded up
This book was really cute, and I enjoyed it much more than the first in the series. Of course, this is a monster romcom, and you need to completely suspend your disbelief and not take it too seriously, but I can actually see this couple making it work long term. Almost all of the conflict (especially in the third act) is caused by the FMC’s family (their expectations of her and racism toward orcs).
Overall this is a lighthearted spicy monster romance, and though it is an interconnected standalone I do recommend reading them in order to more fully understand Orc culture and who all of the side characters are. This was a fun quick read!
June 29, 2025
So glad to continue this series!
If you loved Zoe and her Bodyguard romance, read this and note it has the following tropes:
Neighbors to lovers.
Fake dating (that turn out well)
Business owner FMC x Mechanic
Girl who is reserved growing confident.
Confronting a lack of self worth with loving friends, family members, and a supportive partner.
Nicknames
Curvy girl positivity! (Always a plus!) 😍
(WHEN HE CALLS her cupcake!) 🧁
Best quotes: “He fixed all those little things, because he takes care of me.”
“What are your words, Meli? Tell me what you want, and I’ll make it happen.”
“I want…Eastshore. I love it here.”
If you loved Zoe and her Bodyguard romance, read this and note it has the following tropes:
Neighbors to lovers.
Fake dating (that turn out well)
Business owner FMC x Mechanic
Girl who is reserved growing confident.
Confronting a lack of self worth with loving friends, family members, and a supportive partner.
Nicknames
Curvy girl positivity! (Always a plus!) 😍
(WHEN HE CALLS her cupcake!) 🧁
Best quotes: “He fixed all those little things, because he takes care of me.”
“What are your words, Meli? Tell me what you want, and I’ll make it happen.”
“I want…Eastshore. I love it here.”
July 12, 2024
When you have a grumpy big orc with a sweet tusk and a beautiful baker, you are in for a good treat! This started as a fake boyfriend story so that Mel will escaped her Mom matching games and ended as the most beautiful love story ever! And what’s funny, Cairo have no clue of what is happening to him , the heat , the mating thing, nothing! Don’t want to spoil it, but the epilogue at the end made me laughed so hard, I’m still laughing just thinking about it 🤣 Can’t wait to read Lux and Zoe’s next!
August 10, 2024
Meli needs help fending off her meddlesome matchmaking mother when Cairo the orc who is the island mechanic stumbles in her bakery at the right time. Both have been harboring crushes, so can this relationship of convenience develop into more?
Cairo and Meli are the best of grumpy/sunshine. Best of longing and miscommunication and ugh, I love them both so much. And the sexy times scenes? So, so good. Cannot wait to read more of this universe and like I said last time, can I live here? Sign me up!
Cairo and Meli are the best of grumpy/sunshine. Best of longing and miscommunication and ugh, I love them both so much. And the sexy times scenes? So, so good. Cannot wait to read more of this universe and like I said last time, can I live here? Sign me up!
December 21, 2024
Poor Meli has to figure out a plan to stop her mother from matchmaking to rich and successful men (at least in her mother's eyes). Meli has crushed on Cairo for some time now. Cairo loves Meli's cupcakes and is a regular in her bakery. He has no idea of her crush. When Meli tells her mother she has a boyfriend, she has to make a quick plan and in walks Cairo who agrees to be the pretend boyfriend. As Meli moves in with Cairo, their romance of all times starts but there are a few bumps in the road. This story has steamy romance, lovely characters of Eastshore Isle and a happy ending.
January 15, 2025
3,5 stars for me
I liked it more than the first one ;)
Cairo was a very cute grump, not as mean as all the guys said he was. I liked how he decided to help her even before he understood that she was his Mate. All the little things he did for her were very sweet and showed how much he cared.
I felt like we got to know Meli much better than we got to know Jess in the first installment of the series. Maybe that's why I liked her more, she felt more fleshed out and real. Oh, and her mom deserved to be slapped somewhere during the story, I'm disappointed that she wasn't ;)
I liked it more than the first one ;)
Cairo was a very cute grump, not as mean as all the guys said he was. I liked how he decided to help her even before he understood that she was his Mate. All the little things he did for her were very sweet and showed how much he cared.
I felt like we got to know Meli much better than we got to know Jess in the first installment of the series. Maybe that's why I liked her more, she felt more fleshed out and real. Oh, and her mom deserved to be slapped somewhere during the story, I'm disappointed that she wasn't ;)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews