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How I Met My Monster

Romancing the Orc

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Don’t judge a book by its cover model, unless he’s an orc with abs of steel and a pierced…

After the makeover of the century, I walk onstage in too-high heels… and trip in front of thousands of people! I’m saved from becoming a face-plant meme by Brokk, who catches me in a romantic dip that makes my tummy flutter. Which it so totally shouldn’t.

Because Brokk’s not just the hunky model on my book covers. He also lives 24/7 in an orc costume with tusks and green skin. I might write monster romance and wish I had an orc of my own, but monsters aren’t real! How can I take this guy seriously?

When a creep kidnaps me and demands I solve the mystery of a magical artifact, because of something similar in one of my books, it’s Brokk who rescues me once again.

Turns out he’s not just a gorgeous face and a lickable set of abs. In the jungle, Brokk transforms into the ultimate warrior, vowing to protect me. As we race to beat the bad guys to the prize, heat sizzles between us. When I discover all of Brokk is green, I wonder… What if it’s not a costume? What if the guy I’m falling for can make all my monster loving dreams come true?

✓Fated mates
✓Good girl praise
✓Touch her and regret it
✓Forced proximity
✓Opposites attract
✓He falls first
✓Cinnamon roll in the streets, dominant in the sheets

Romancing the Orc is The Lost City meets Romancing the Stone, but make it monster! It’s a cozy spicy romance between an orc who can’t keep his shirt on and a hot-mess heroine with a thing for monsters. It’s part of How I Met My Monster, a new series that reimagines your favorite rom com classics with delicious monster extras!

228 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 13, 2025

201 people are currently reading
482 people want to read

About the author

Krista Luna

39 books413 followers
Krista Luna writes spicy fantasy and paranormal romance featuring otherworldly men and the strong women they can’t live without. She loves combining sizzling romance with thrilling adventure, laugh-out-loud humor, and cozy found families full of best friends and talking animals.

When she’s not writing, you can find Krista reading or watching her latest fantasy or scifi favorite, all while eating chocolate. Because there’s always chocolate.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
Profile Image for Poppy || Monster Lover.
1,808 reviews500 followers
February 26, 2025
Lara is living the dream all us monster lovers want: a sexy orc saving the day and giving the revelation that monsters (and monster peens) are real. She was awkward and introverted, but got more confident as the book went on. Brokk was protective and really just wanted to live his best shirtless life. The plot was a mix of fluffy with some danger. The praise kink was a lil excessive to my tastes, but the spice was still good overall.

Spice: 3/5

Triggers: gun violence, kidnapping, accidental exhibitionism, drugging of side characters, toxic ex
Profile Image for book bruin.
1,528 reviews353 followers
July 29, 2025
2.5-3 stars

Super light, “just go with it” kind of read. Features a romance writer and a very sweet himbo orc MMC. It’s supposed to be a take on the movie Romancing the Stone, but I haven’t watched that and so I can’t compare the two. The sexy times were fun (although logistically kind of gross since they’re dirty in the jungle), but Brokk has lots of anatomical surprises to get the job done. “Good girl” is used a bit too much for me, but lovers of praise will eat this up. I do think the story could have been quite a bit shorter though and things dragged at times. Overall, a nice and easy read.
Profile Image for Fey Flowers (enbytweenthepages).
292 reviews66 followers
May 18, 2025
"I think you feel things very deeply, and I love that about you"
Thank you for making me and so many others seen 💕

"I read everything I could get my hands on, devoured all the HP books and movies, back before the author got problematic"

Perfect statement 💕
Trans rights are human rights 🩷🤍🩵
Profile Image for Biblio.
Author 8 books224 followers
February 11, 2025
What happens when a monster romance author has a crush on her cover model? You definitely want to read this and find out. From sequin hot pink catsuits to fated mates, this story packs a punch of laughs and spice! Such a fun read.
Profile Image for Meagan Grauel.
683 reviews3 followers
February 17, 2025
This was a fairly decent monster romance featuring an orc hiding in plain sight and a romantasy author who gets to live out her dream life when she discovers that fated mates are a real thing when she finds hers, AND that she's a witch with some cool magic. The FMC (Lara, the romantasy author) and the MMC (Brokk, the orc) find themselves embroiled in quite the adventure when the FMC is kidnapped by a megalomaniac who is convinced she is the key to unlocking the faerie realm.
While learning to navigate her newly acquired powers, decode the mystery on the island they're stuck on, and evade their captors, Lara and Brokk have frequent sexy times utilizing Brokk's vine magic. I'm really not sure what is so alluring about jungle sex for the two of them, seeing as how neither of them has had a shower and they've been hiking around in sweltering temperatures in the same clothes that they came to the island on. But sure, it's totally feasible that they'd still want to jump each other while smelling like week old leftovers. And I suppose that I could see them fucking, but for them to go down on each other with that funk in full effect ... gross. As this is also a monster smut book, the MMC has a unique appendage with knot and a Jacob's ladder. There's also a special piercing at the base of Brokk's dick that turns itself into his mates preferred sex toy to heighten things while they get busy. Turns out, Lara writes about monsters for a reason, and her preference is tentacles.
The story has a HEA and things work out for this couple, and the story ends on a note that leaves a lot of openings for more books to be written in this particular world. The story has a well thought out plot and lots of adventure/excitement to keep the reader hooked, as well as plenty of spice throughout, even when it didn't seem like it was the most prudent of times to be getting frisky during the story. While I didn't dislike this story overall and thought the spice was decent enough, the concept of the book wasn't really very engaging to me personally. And as shallow as this might be, it was too confusing for me. When I'm reading smut, I'm not reading it to delve deep and try and understand larger concept. I came for the dick, and trying to wrap my mind about how the worlds are connected and what opening the doors between worlds means was just kind of a let down in my opinion. I would definitely still suggest reading this, the FMC is a character I think most women can relate to to some extent, and who doesn't want to picture themselves being involved in an adventure and being ravaged by an orc? It just wasn't for me is all, I still say you should try it and see if its your cup of tea!
Profile Image for kymagirl.
6,215 reviews90 followers
February 12, 2025
She writes about orc romance. She never expected to live one. Lara (h) is a bestselling author who’s made a career writing about strong, protective orc warriors. But when she’s forced to share a stage with Brokk (H), the orc-like cover model her fans adore, things take a turn she never saw coming. Brokk isn’t just playing a role. He is an orc, and he’s decided Lara is his fated mate. Before she can figure out what to do with that information, or her growing feelings, she’s kidnapped by a billionaire lunatic who believes she holds the key to unlocking Faerie magic. Trapped on a hidden island full of ancient ruins and dangerous secrets, she’s forced to translate fae inscriptions while trying to stay one step ahead of her captors. But Lara isn’t alone for long, Brokk is coming for her. And when an orc wants something, nothing stands in his way. On the run through the jungle, Lara and Brokk fight off mercenaries, uncover shocking secrets about her fae ancestry, and face a magic-wielding trickster cat, lead to a one-way magical door that forces Lara and Brokk to make an impossible choice. Steamy. Action-packed. And, an orc warrior who will do anything for his mate.
Profile Image for Hannah.
188 reviews3 followers
February 16, 2025
✨Release Week✨

I’ve been dying with the flu, but the forced rest finally gave me time to read this fun story! I loved that it basically felt like what Krista would do if she ended up in this situation (at least in my head 😂).

Brokk is such a sweetheart cinnamon roll but will also burn down the world for Lara. Lara is relatable to many of us that love our monster books. She’s JUST a girl. This book was nonstop fun and I loved how it tied in with the Moon Blade Clan books!

Read this if you enjoy:
🌳 Green boys with plant magic
💖 “Good girl”
🌳 Fated mates
💖 Forced proximity
🌳 Vine play 👀

“Lists. I don't love them—I need them.
They're the only way I can keep on track when my mind wants to wander into absentminded writing mode.”

“There's nowhere in all the realms I'd rather be than here, loving you, my sweet mate. You are my heart, my home.”
Profile Image for Racy_Reviewer.
169 reviews18 followers
February 9, 2025
Krista knocked this book out the park! It has everything from adventure to laughs to spice! She even had my fave, tentacles make a few appearances!
Brokk and Lara are the perfect couple. He is everything you want in a monster romance and she is the all time fave heroine. She’s a sassy author that writes what we love to read. This fills so many dreams I’m sure for many. He’s a praising dirty talker! The quips and laughs really fit in all the right places leaving me in stitches.
There’s a whole new element to world building around Krista’s Orc series here and I gotta say it opened the doors for so much more fun.
Profile Image for Ash.
427 reviews13 followers
February 24, 2025
⭐️ARC REVIEW⭐️
If you are a frequent re-watcher of classic romance movies and always thought, these stories would be much better with some monsters thrown in? Then this is the series for you! Three cozy monster romance books full of shenanigans, sweetness and spice that will have you laughing and kicking your feet. Each one was so fun to read, and easily devoured in one sitting if you can’t put them down like I did. There is a story for everyone with a dragon, orc or werewolf to enjoy!
Profile Image for Nova Black.
76 reviews9 followers
February 16, 2025
Romancing the Orc by Krista Luna

This book was such a fun, cozy read! Loosely based on the movie, The Lost City, Romancing the Orc follows a writer, Lara, and her cover model, Brokk. Lara has been obsessed with Faeries, orcs, and the like, since she was a littler girl, and channeled that into her adult life as a writer of all things fantasy with romance. Brokk, a real orc and not just a human playing one like Lara thinks, recognizes Lara as his mate and is utterly dedicated to her in all ways.

At the end of a book tour for her latest orc book, Lara gets kidnapped by a rich man desperate to find something magical on a remote island. Brokk’s protective and warrior instincts kick in, and he follows Lara to this island, which wound up being full of magic and feeling like home to him. While protecting Lara, their relationship continues to grow and swiftly turns into something romantic.

I genuinely enjoyed reading this book. I enjoyed how Brokk viewed Lara, how Lara’s busy mind quieted with him (I can use that myself), and meeting a side character named Grey. I also enjoy how Brokk’s…. Fun bits… transform based on Lara’s true desires. Let’s just say, I think she likes the Duskwalker Brides series, or that’s how I pictured it anyway 😉 now, I have to go rewatch The Lost City and imagine Channing Tatum as an orc!

10/10 read
🌶️🌶️🌶️

I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. THANK YOU!!
Profile Image for g33kgirlr3ads.
182 reviews9 followers
February 11, 2025
I adore Brokk and Lara! This was funny and so sweet. I loved reading about how they end up together and fall in love. The movie references were absolutely awesome. I loved this whole series.
Profile Image for Gleeful Goblin Reviews.
634 reviews20 followers
February 25, 2025
Gleeful Goblin Review: As someone who grew up on the stories this book is loosely based on I am DELIGHTED with this story. It's a perfect blend of classic 80's/90's action-adventure with updated attitudes on things like consent. And we love a Consent King in this house. So whether it's hitching a ride to a secret island on the landing gear of a plane or helping a monster fudger author unravel fantastical mysteries and family legends about Faerie, Brokk is the dashing green hero Lara thought she'd only experience in her writing. I feel like a perfect example of the tongue in cheek, near 4th wall break style of this book without spoilers: "A few shouts call out from overhead, and Brokk’s expression hardens into the steely look I’ve seen staring out at me from my book covers. I always thought it was acting, part of being a model, but it looks authentic on him, as if this is some hidden part of him finally let free. It’s a dangerous look, promising a world of pain for whoever crosses him. “We need to move,” he growls. “Right.” I nod. He lifts an eyebrow. “So, were you going to get off me?” Shít, I’m still on top of him! There���s that blush again. I roll off, squirming with embarrassment, and struggle to my feet. He leaps up beside me and does a slow spin, coming to a halt and pointing. “That way.” “What’s that way?” “I have no idea. But it’s directly away from the camp, and that’s good enough for now.” “You can tell where the camp is?” The fall got me completely twisted around. “Yes.” He shoots me a questioning look. “I’m not good with directions.” I shrug. “I grew up in a small town in the middle of a forest, so you’d think I’d pick up something. But I never did.” “Your heroines always know where they’re going.” I startle. “You’ve read my books?” “I like knowing what I’m putting my face on.” Oh. That makes sense. Still, a niggle of disappointment goes through me. I’d kind of hoped… His finger lifts my chin until I meet his eyes. “I love your books.” A soft whoosh of air leaves me. Brokk’s sincerity brings a soft smile to my lips. Like any author, I want people to like my books, but knowing he likes them makes warmth curl through my chest."

This book is so unbelievably fun as a monster fudger/romance fan. Seeing the main characters in this book talk about the orc romance books that Lara our FMC writes including living out romance tropes like #OnlyOneBed, #SpecialPeenPowers, #Tentacles&MagicalPiercings, #PraiseKínkForGoodGirls, #MatíngMarks, #FatedMateTakingHisKnot, #TieHerUpToLockHerDown. AND SO MUCH MORE. This story is part monsterfudger fever dream and part action-adventure romance tailor made for book nerds like me. 5/5 Stars
Profile Image for Nevena.
919 reviews27 followers
February 7, 2025
💚 “There’s nowhere in all the realms I’d rather be than here, loving you, my sweet mate. You are my heart, my home.”
~~~
Lara is a bestselling monster romance author with a great fondness of monsters and… making lists. She’s a bit introverted, (sometimes) awkward and tends to overthink things a lot, but is also absolutely awesome. Even more, Lara is creative, kind, brave and so much fun. And she’s so sassy! Lara is the best and I loved everything about her!

Brokk is part of the Orc King’s guard until he’s swooped away from Alarria and sent to New York where he starts working as… a romance books cover model. Brokk is an incredible male - huge, gorgeous, strong, brave, resourceful, fiercely protective, devoted and honorable. Even more, he’s so considerate, supportive and an absolute delight to be around. And that deliciously filthy mouth of his! This orc warrior, who oftentimes tends to go shirtless, is one charming and utterly irresistible male and I couldn’t help but adore every single thing about him!

I absolutely loved everything that happened between Lara and Brokk! They attend a book signing event together and the moment Brokk sees the lovely Lara in her hot-pink catsuit, he knows she’s meant to be his. Then Lara is taken and flown away to an unknown island and forced to unravel a magical mystery. But Brokk is not a male who would ever let anyone take his mate away from him. I just adored those two together! Everything about them was absolute perfection - the chemistry, the banters, the teasing… Every moment they spent together was an absolute delight to read. And the passion… Oh, boy! If you’ve read any story from the Brides of the Moon Blade Clan, you know that Alarria’s Orc warriors come… packing quite the surprises. But the things Brokk does with his magic… *fans self*. Naughty, naughty, Brokk - he’s truly a dream that came true. Lara and Brokk were absolutely perfect for each other and I couldn’t get enough of either of them!

In addition, the storyline was fantastic! Action, danger, mystery, magic, mischief and tons of humor and unexpected moments and discoveries - everything will keep you glued to the pages till the very end. And you’re going to love every moment of it. I sure did!

Overall, Romancing the Orc is a fun, adventurous and very naughty story and I absolutely adored every page of it!
Profile Image for Cas ✨.
808 reviews7 followers
February 7, 2025
Its no secret that Krista is one of my favorite indie authors, so when she announced that she was doing a fun monster rom-com project with Sara Ivy Hill and Ami Wright I was ecstatic! (And the cover artists made them all look SO good, which just added to my excitement.)

Romancing the Orc is everything that I’ve come to love from a Krista Luna novel — her extra special blend of relateable heroines, spicy scenes, swoon-worthy romantic heroes, kickbutt animal companions, and action-packed adventures — but with an extra dose of light-heartedness that, like you’d expect from any good rom-com, doesn’t need to be taken too seriously to be enjoyed. (The villains name for example 🤭hehe) It was nice to take a step back and read a story that was genuinely fun; something that I think we all need from time to time and especially right now.

I really loved the tie-ins to Krista’s other orc stories too; it was really satisfying for me to read the modern foil of how the other stories were setup. In the Brides of the Moon Blade Clan series, the heroine is magicked away to the orc’s realm but in Romancing the Orc we get the inverse, with Brokk jumping through the portal to Earth and getting separated from his clansmen before finding his bride. I can’t really explain *why* it was so satisfying to me but I *loved* it. Truthfully, I loved everything about their whirlwind romance and the magical adventure they were set upon. Even if it was kickstarted with a kidnapping and had some perilous moments, there was so much heart and heat packed into the time they spent together that it made the pages fly by! (And oh my gods, that heat! Brokk definitely has *the* filthiest mouth! /positive)

I won’t go on to spoil any more details because I genuinely think it would be more fun to read without knowing anything about it. But I leave you with a parting thought/comment: the animal companion in this one was my favorite so far (a high bar, lemme tell ya) and I HOPE (crosses everything!!) that his character comes up again in the future. 💙 I would read the heck out of a Cat Sith series, Krista!! 😉
Profile Image for Nanasbookreviews.
1,817 reviews52 followers
February 5, 2025
“And you, my friend, are one of the premiere monster romance authors. You need to embrace it.”
“Like this catsuit is embracing my hoohaa?”

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Romancing the Orc by Krista Luna is part of the How I Met My Monster series.

Lara Jade is a bestselling monster romance author, known for her wildly popular series featuring a cover model who looks exactly like her main character. Enter Brokk—an orc warrior who, after the Faerie gates open, finds himself stranded in Times Square. Lost and navigating an unfamiliar world, he ends up becoming Lara’s cover model with the help of a "kind human". From the moment he meets her, he knows she’s his fated mate and is determined to win her over. But when Lara is kidnapped at one of her book signings, Brokk comes to her rescue. Stranded together on an island, they must fight to survive while growing closer and uncovering the truth. For Lara, it’s a chance to live the kind of action-packed romance she’s only ever written about.

Monster peen for the win!!! This book is equal parts fun and steamy. The tropes? Fated mates, good girl praise, touch her and regret it, forced proximity, opposites attract, he falls first, cinnamon roll in the streets—dominant in the sheets. Half of the story focuses on Lara and Brokk’s romance, while the other half follows their adventure to find a way home, with some intriguing Faerie mythology sprinkled in. The mix of action and intimacy keeps things engaging, and I laughed out loud at several moments.

Lara is such a quirky, lovable heroine, transforming from shy to seductress in the best way. And Brokk? Sexy, protective, and utterly romantic. My favorite part? When he saves her towards the end—it was chef’s kiss.

If you’re a fan of monster romance, this book is a must-read!
Profile Image for Lynn_G.
1,114 reviews27 followers
February 6, 2025
I had the distinct privilege of receiving an advance reader copy of this book from the author, along with two other books that like this one are inspired by classic 80s/90s romcom blockbuster movies.

Monster romance novelist Lara is on a panel with the stunning cover model of her wildly popular orc-centered series. Trying to ignore the feelings he inspires in her, she has a mishap while teetering on a pair of killer stilettos, she’s certain he’s the most dedicated orc cosplayer she’s ever met.

After the panel, Lara is corralled into the wrong area of the venue and is abducted by a group intent on forcing her to translate the language she based her orc character’s own on, which she’s stunned to find she can comprehend. Stuck with these nefarious goons, she’s pondering how to free herself when a hot green behemoth in the form of her cover model swoops in to her rescue.

True orc hiding in plain sight Brokk knew the moment he encountered the curvy beauty Lara that she was his fated mate. Witnessing her abduction, he hitches a ride on the aircraft on which her captors spirited her away. Once back on land, Brokk enlists the aide of other wee magickal creatures to wrest her from harm.

Adventure, steam, and romance follow in a rollicking great time.

Krista Luna is one of my favorite authors and her MCs are always delightfully funny and fierce, clever and resourceful.

I’m pleased to share my very enthusiastic two thumbs up.
Profile Image for Nora Ellen (Nbbookery).
684 reviews18 followers
February 9, 2025
Monster romance author Lara gets the thrill of a lifetime when she is adultnapped from a signing by a guy who needs her to translate a mysterious message similar to the language in her books. Lara's cover model, Brokk, arrives just in time to hitch a ride on the getaway plane to rescue his mate. Armed with his orc warrior skills and some unlikely allies, Brokk and Lara navigate the jungle island to the rune wall. As things heat up during their trek, Brokk confides their mate bond to Lara, who takes it well. He's got this trick with vines, and he's packing some fancy goodies. Surviving the jungle is only half the battle. They are being followed by the adultnappers but also have an island of displaced fae creatures to reunite with the world of Faerie.

This story was a fun adventure filled with some exciting new faces and some fantastic spice to boot! Brokk was displaced from his world when a human witch opened the borders of Faerie. He's now a cover model for a romance author, who is also his fated mate. Lara is an author who wanted to be a monsterfudger, and the stars have aligned to give her that dream. I loved their dynamic of opposites attracting and true love. Plus, Brokk knows how to use all his endowments. There were some great moments where I laughed, and when it all came together, I did not predict that ending! This is the perfect short read for a dive into some of the best cozy monster stories. This author knows what they're doing!
Profile Image for TeetotheTee.
23 reviews1 follower
February 14, 2025
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🔥
Tropes:
✓Fated mates
✓Good girl praise
✓Touch her and regret it
✓Forced proximity
✓Only one hammock
✓Opposites attract
✓He falls first
✓Cinnamon roll in the streets, Dom in the sheets
✓Pierced peen, knotting, & aphrodisiac fluids
✓Sex swing, light bondage, & spanking

If only I can be a writer and have one of my fantasies come true! I was totally jealous of the FMC Lara reading this book. The MMC Brokk is just-chef's kiss 🤌🏽❤️ he is the perfect match for Lara and everything she has wished for and desired for as a partner. This book has everything I like: Fun, adventure, romance and SPICE 🤭. I am saving this one also as a comfort read, I totally was able to picture everything as if I was watching a movie.

I love the curvy/plus size representation as well because I was able to have a connection with Lara from the start. The way Brokk loved on his Lara-DAYUM. He was so attuned to her that he knew when she was uncomfortable or saw her needs before she even processed it herself 🫠. If you are new to Krista Luna and do not know where to start, I would recommend to read this one! If you are looking for more fantasy/adventure or even more Orc Romance--I recommend her series Brides of the Moon Blade Clan they are HEA's just like this one!

Favorite Quote: (that might interest some of y'all to read it 😏)
"That's my good girl," --Brokk

Arc read
Romance
Profile Image for Logan.
61 reviews1 follower
February 25, 2025
Romancing the Orc is a fun filled story about an author, Lara, whose wildest fantasies come true when she finds out the man she's been drooling over, Brokk, is, in fact, an orc. And, even better, he's her fated mate!

Lara didn't expect to be kidnapped after a book convention, but when her rescuer turns out to be the cover model for her monster romance series, she's not upset. She decides to stop playing it safe and give in to her desires.

Brokk adores his gorgeous mate and will do absolutely anything to protect her, even if that means protecting her from herself. Lara's self-confidence issues are the first hurdle for Brokk to jump, and he's determined to find a way to make her believe how amazing she truly is.

I love these two so much! Brokk falls head over heels so fast, and he does everything he can to make her believe that. He's so sweet with her, except when he leans into his spicy side, when his dominant side takes over. Even then, he's careful to make sure she always has what she needs.

The orcs in this series are always so gentle with their mates, and they don't hesitate to take down anyone who tries to get in their way. I'm a huge sucker for that trope, and Krista Luna always does a fantastic job of writing it! I'm looking forward to the next one. Everything feels like it's coming to a close soon, and I can't wait to see how it ends.

*I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Profile Image for Anika.
662 reviews5 followers
May 13, 2025
Krista Luna delivers a wildly entertaining, monster-flavored rom-com romp in "Romancing the Orc", the first in the How I Met My Monster series. Think The Lost City meets Shrek, but with a hotter, shirtless orc and a heroine who trips her way into destiny—and danger.

The story follows a quirky romance author thrust into a real-life adventure when her fictional worlds collide with reality. After an epic makeover and an even more epic fall in front of a crowd, she’s literally swept off her feet by Brokk—the orc cover model she thought was just playing dress-up. But Brokk is more than tusks and muscle. When she's kidnapped and forced to chase down a magical artifact linked to her books, it’s Brokk who becomes her fierce protector, shirtless savior, and possibly... her fated mate?

This book is a delightful blend of cozy spice, humor, and pulse-pounding fantasy adventure. Brokk is the perfect monster boyfriend: cinnamon roll on the outside, primal protector when it counts. Their chemistry sizzles, especially in forced proximity and “touch her and regret it” moments that check every monster romance box.

Luna leans all the way into the absurd and makes it work. If you love monster romance with a healthy dose of self-aware humor, heart, and heat, "Romancing the Orc" is your next must-read.
Profile Image for mei_li_terature.
252 reviews1 follower
February 9, 2025
Thank you to the author for giving me an early copy of Romancing the orc to review.

This was such a fun read, I was honestly smiling like stupid most of the time because he’s so obsessed with his mate, and this from the very beginning.

Lara is a monster romance author and Brokk is her cover model for her Orc romance series. At the beginning, Lara thinks he’s just a silly human pretending to be an orc because magic doesn’t exist , right ?

Imagine her surprise when she gets kidnapped to help the bad guy activate a magical artifact and her « cover model » comes to rescue her to the island she was brought to. And he’s still green. Everywhere. And I mean, EVERYWHERE.

I really liked the adventure side of this book. While it’s still a monster romcom, they had to hike through the forest to get to this magical artifact before the bad guy.

The romance was really freaking cute, even though a bit insta lovey, but that’s to be expected with fated mates. The smut was SMUTTING. I could’ve done without the ten thousands mentions of how big or huge his cock is. But other than that, smut was FIRE.

Overall, this book will definitely make you laugh and smile, and the romance is cute. Definitely recommend if you like monster romcom !
Profile Image for Sassafrack.
529 reviews12 followers
February 16, 2025
Soo much fun!

This story was so much fun. Pretty sure I had a smile on my face for at least 90% of it.
If you loved The Lost City and Romancing the Stone, you’ll love this Orc version. Romancing the Orc is in the How I Met My Monster multi author series, but is in the same world as Krista Luna’s Brides of the Moon Blade Clan series, and follows Brokk. Brokk appears in Bound to the Orc Warrior (book 5), before he was sucked through a portal. This is where he ended up, and where he meets Lara. Lara is our monster loving romance author whose current orc romance adventure series has become a huge fan favourite, and now features a super hot orc cover model. Who no one believes is actually an orc.
The story starts very similarly to The Lost City. I mean, Lara just HAD to get into that pink sparkly catsuit right? But Brokk is very much capable when it comes to surviving a jungle and rescuing a damsel. Which he does, while also being all swoony and charming his lady. Lara gets right into the mystery she has been kidnapped to unravel, while also finding a monster helping of confidence and magic.
This story was cute and steamy, had good character growth while being light and super fun to read. A really enjoyable read.
1,862 reviews32 followers
February 19, 2025
- Romance author
- Secret identity
- Close proximity
- Magical world
- Fated mate
- Good girl

First of all, the nods to one of the greatest Rom Com movies of all time, Romancing the Stone, were the absolute best. I was giggling and kicking my feet with glee. The shoe scene? Iconic! Did I envision Michael Douglas, but bigger and greener? Yes, I did. Was I hoping for the mudslide scene? Yes.

I can't even begin to describe how much I loved this book. It was witty, it was snarky, it was hawwwwt! Monster romance author Lara is in such denial that her "cover model" Brokk is actually an orc. She thinks he just stays in character. Oh, Lara!

And let's talk about Brokk, because he is an orc on a mission! He isn't sure why he got pulled through the vortex to the human realm (thanks, Naomi!), but he figures there was a good reason. And he finds that reason in his fated mate, Lara. He is surprised and delighted that she writes such accurate representations of the faerie world. Little does she know there is much truth in fiction....

When some circumstances cause these 2 to have to work together to get off an enchanted island, they give in to the attraction they both feel.

I think the catsuit was a side character in this book. So, so cute!!
Profile Image for Josmely.
657 reviews27 followers
February 14, 2025
Really enjoyed this one. The action started right away so I got sucked into the story pretty quickly. I also liked the characters a lot. They had a good connection and their chemistry was insane.

Even though she was kidnapped, and their was guns and fighting, and mystery the book really did give me rom com vibes all the way. I found sweet how obsessed they were with each other. How fiercely protective he Brokk was. As deadly and powerful as he was he was a sweetheart. He got thrown into our world and did the best he could to fit in and make a living. Once he found his mate he did everything he could to be near her and make sure she's safe.

Lara was a little bit awkward to me but in a endearing kind of way. She was smart, had a brilliant mind, was sassy when she needed to and even when she was kidnapped she kept her composure (mostly). I LOVED how she was the first one to really make a move. She knew that she wanted him, got an opportunity and didn't let it go to waste.

Overall I enjoyed this a lot. It had everything I could have wanted in a monster rom com, especially those special things this man can do 🫣🤭. Definitely need to check out other books by this author.
Profile Image for Vallene Boddington.
811 reviews35 followers
February 15, 2025
Romancing the Orc by Krista Luna. Book in How I Met My Monster.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶🌶💀
Swinging from vines, dodging bullets and outwitting a megalomaniac on a mysterious island is just so much fun to read or watch. Add an Orc warrior and his fated mate in the mix you guaranteed some jungle spice. If Romancing the Stone and The Lost City movies had a monster baby this is it. The hot pink sequenced one piece and pink louboutons included.
Lara finds herself 'napped for her fantasy languages in her books, Brokk her Orc cover model sees the 'napping and runs to her rescue. Stuck on a mysterious island they undercover each other and discover magic, magical beings and solve a riddle. Romancing the Orc is full of fun, quirkiness and excitement. It's a fantastic read.
Trope:
Close proximity. Lost in jungle. Magic. Fated mates. Knots. Mystery. Praise.
Quotes:
“Like this catsuit is embracing my hoohaa?”“Gerald’s right. This is the one.”

“F--k, yes.” My hand buries in her hair, and I remember her reaction from earlier. “Just like that, my good girl.”

“I love your laugh. You should do it more.”“Give me regular injections of your love juice, and I just might.” Her eyes startle,
Profile Image for Stephk.
30 reviews
March 13, 2025
Whooo mama!! A true page turner, I literally could not put this book down and read it in one sitting.

✓Fated mates
✓Good girl praise
✓Touch her and regret it
✓Forced proximity
✓He falls first
✓Opposites attract
✓He's sweet in the streets, dominant in the sheets

Krista did it again! Every time I think her books can't get any better, she pulls another one out the hat and gets me kicking and giggling. Brokk is just the epitome of the ultimate book boyfriend but in orc form, he literally crosses an ocean to save his mate Lara. Lara is an FMC after my own heart, bookish, nerdy, feisty and knows what she wants and is willing to fight for the orc she loves.

Krista's world building is just chef's kiss and her characters are not only relatable but nuanced and well rounded. Although this book is part of the 'How I Met My Monster' series, it is also interconnected with the 'Brides of the Moon Blade Clan' series. It can be read as a standalone, but is even better read as part of the moon blade series.

If you are looking for a sweet, spicy, adventurous monster romance with a HEA that melts your heart then this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Profile Image for Rebekah.
75 reviews3 followers
February 5, 2025
What a fun read! While this started a little differently than the Moon Bound Brides series, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It could be read as a standalone but I feel knowing even some of the Moon Bound Brides world building is helpful. I am not fully caught up and some names I didn’t know but it was still easy enough to understand without that knowledge.

Lara is a girl after my own heart, too in her head to see or maybe believe what is right in front of her. Brokk is such a hype man, always hyping her up and giving her that extra affection she needs.

The lamprey scene and the animal sidekick Grey - Chef’s Kiss. I thought it would be set more in the modern world but loved how they found a secret island with a very similar magical Faerie feel. The mystery of Lara’s family journal pulls a very different aesthetic to the book, tying in mystery along with adventure and romance.

The end opens up to more books and I am excited to see if that happens!

***I did receive this as an ARC but my opinion is an honest review that would be the same even if I did not receive an ARC
Profile Image for Kats.
146 reviews5 followers
February 8, 2025
🌴 Fated mates
🌴 Good girl praise
🌴 Touch her and regret it
🌴 Forced proximity
🌴 Opposites attract
🌴 He falls first
🌴 Cinnamon roll in the streets, dominant in the sheets

A monster retelling of Romancing the Stone. Lara is a monster romance author, writing stories of the Fae she has been dreaming about for so long. Brokk is the handsome Orc warrior with abs of steel, trapped in the human realm and making a living by posing for Lara's book covers. When Lara is kidnapped from a book signing by a megalomaniac Brokk is hot on their heels intent on saving her. Cue island adventure, fae magic, hot steamy romance and a ton of hilarity.

If you've read any of the Moon Blade Clan series you'll know what to expect, kickass heroine's and swoon-worthy MMCs. This is set in the same universe and you'll encounter some familiar creatures. If you haven't read these yet, I highly recommend the whole series.

Sidenote I was a HUGE fan of Romancing the Stone when I was a kid, I can't tell you how many times I've watched it. If you haven't seen it you should definitely watch it. Classic.
Profile Image for Kat Simmons.
53 reviews4 followers
February 13, 2025
We found Brokk! This was such a cool twist on the Brides of the Moon Blade Clan books, usually starting with us being on Earth rather than the Orc's homeworld of Alarria.
Brokk is a hunk of an Orc and knows how to take control. He and Lara are so yummy together. They take no time to give in to their desire for each other, even in the face of danger. Lara is one lucky girl, cuz Brokk is packing, pierced, knotted and has magic tentacles, just for her. Not to mention, he has plant magic and a dominant streak, so they have some extra spicy fun in the jungle.
Orc lovers, read the Brides of the Moon Blade Clan series if you haven't already then jump on this story! And if you have read them, do not miss this!We found Brokk! This was such a cool twist on the Brides of the Moon Blade Clan books, usually starting with us being on Earth rather than the Orc's homeworld of Alarria.
Brokk is a hunk of an Orc and knows how to take control. He and Lara are so yummy together. They take no time to give in to their desire for each other, even in the face of danger. Lara is one lucky girl, cuz Brokk is packing, pierced, knotted and has magic tentacles, just for her. Not to mention, he has plant magic and a dominant streak, so they have some extra spicy fun in the jungle.
Orc lovers, read the Brides of the Moon Blade Clan series if you haven't already then jump on this story! And if you have read them, do not miss this!
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