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Brides of Lonesome Creek Orcs #1
Wrangling the Orc Cowboy
Escaping my past is tough. Staying immune to one sweet, bumbling orc cowboy's heart-melting charm might be impossible.
Gracie: Escaping my old life as a reality TV star was supposed to be my fresh start, not a one-way trip to a dusty Wild West town with a fake saloon, real orcs, and a pet raven who meows. But when I take a job at Lonesome Creek, a Western-themed orc tourist destination that desperately needs social media help, I find myself dodging pink ostrich-chickens, wrangling content, and falling hard for one broody orc cowboy who makes muffins like a dream and kisses like he means it. I came here to fix a brand, not catch feelings. But if I can’t figure out how to make this work, I might lose more than just a paycheck. I might lose the best thing I’ve ever found.
Tark: I knew Gracie was my fated mate the instant we touched. She’s bright, bold, and smells like hope. I run the social media for Lonesome Creek, which mostly means posting blurry photos and coming up with hashtags while elbow-deep in mud or feathers. But ever since she showed up, I’ve been trying to act like a normal, charming orc instead of a lovesick disaster. I fumble my words. I panic when she smiles. I’m more comfortable with wounded animals than a beautiful woman who makes my heart pound. But I know she’s the one. If I can’t convince her that this odd little town—and this bumbling, soft-hearted orc—are worth loving, she’ll leave when the job ends. And I’ll be left missing the person I didn’t know I’d been waiting my whole life for.
Wrangling the Orc Cowboy is Book 1 in the Brides of the Lonesome Creek Orcs Series. A cozy monster romance, it features fated mates, lots of pining, touch-her-and-die vibes, steamy/spicy heat, plus quirky wooing and he falls first tropes. Expect size difference, a cinnamon roll hero, cute shenanigans, plus a new, cozy orc contemporary world.
Brides of the Lonesome Creek Orcs in
Fake Dating an Orc Cowboy (part of Sweet Monster Treats)
Saddling the Orc Cowboy (freebie with newsletter sign-up)
Wrangling the Orc Cowboy
Rough Riding Orc Cowboy
Buck Wild Orc Cowboy
Sweet-Talking Orc Cowboy
Giddy Up Orc Cowboy
Gracie: Escaping my old life as a reality TV star was supposed to be my fresh start, not a one-way trip to a dusty Wild West town with a fake saloon, real orcs, and a pet raven who meows. But when I take a job at Lonesome Creek, a Western-themed orc tourist destination that desperately needs social media help, I find myself dodging pink ostrich-chickens, wrangling content, and falling hard for one broody orc cowboy who makes muffins like a dream and kisses like he means it. I came here to fix a brand, not catch feelings. But if I can’t figure out how to make this work, I might lose more than just a paycheck. I might lose the best thing I’ve ever found.
Tark: I knew Gracie was my fated mate the instant we touched. She’s bright, bold, and smells like hope. I run the social media for Lonesome Creek, which mostly means posting blurry photos and coming up with hashtags while elbow-deep in mud or feathers. But ever since she showed up, I’ve been trying to act like a normal, charming orc instead of a lovesick disaster. I fumble my words. I panic when she smiles. I’m more comfortable with wounded animals than a beautiful woman who makes my heart pound. But I know she’s the one. If I can’t convince her that this odd little town—and this bumbling, soft-hearted orc—are worth loving, she’ll leave when the job ends. And I’ll be left missing the person I didn’t know I’d been waiting my whole life for.
Wrangling the Orc Cowboy is Book 1 in the Brides of the Lonesome Creek Orcs Series. A cozy monster romance, it features fated mates, lots of pining, touch-her-and-die vibes, steamy/spicy heat, plus quirky wooing and he falls first tropes. Expect size difference, a cinnamon roll hero, cute shenanigans, plus a new, cozy orc contemporary world.
Brides of the Lonesome Creek Orcs in
Fake Dating an Orc Cowboy (part of Sweet Monster Treats)
Saddling the Orc Cowboy (freebie with newsletter sign-up)
Wrangling the Orc Cowboy
Rough Riding Orc Cowboy
Buck Wild Orc Cowboy
Sweet-Talking Orc Cowboy
Giddy Up Orc Cowboy
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2025
424 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Ava Ross
163 books768 followersAVA ROSS fell for men with unusual features when she first watched Star Wars, where alien creatures have gone mainstream. She lives in New England with her husband (who is sadly not an alien, though he is still cute in his own way), her kids, and assorted pets, including a yorkie pup and three cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 21, 2025
(Spoilers below...)
Ehhh, it was okay, I suppose. It's a straightforward story, so I don't understand why it needs to be over 300 pages, though. 🫣
It's insta-love—Tark just knew from the moment he met Gracie that she was his fated mate. Even with that fact, the story still dragged on, and tbh, it felt a bit dull in the middle.
Sure, there's attraction, but Tark didn't act on it and was very respectful and innocent. This big orc is a freaking softie, and I love that about him. But this personality gave him a bit of a beta vibe, and that might not sit well with some readers. But it worked for me, so... to each their own, I suppose.
I just wish there was a clear answer about what he plans to do with his passion. He's definitely not cut out for social media, but man, can he cook and bake! I hoped he had told his brother that this is what he wanted to do and that it would be his contribution to the ranch. Unfortunately, this felt more like a forgotten matter in the end. It was never brought up again. Also, I think he likes poems, but humans were so mean in the comments on his first attempt at posting on social media. I wish he didn't stop doing this. 🙁
Anyway, as for Gracie, sadly there's nothing much intriguing about her. I mean, there really isn't a whole lot to say, other than the fact that she is an actress who has stepped out of the limelight. It was like she was just there. 🤷♀️
Also, the storyline with her parents felt more like a filler. I wish they hadn't gotten anything from Tark, but that didn't happen. In the end, these greedy humans still got what they wanted. 😑 It also wasn't clear what would happen to Gracie's money (assuming it's really in the bank). Her age wasn't specified, but it was said she can't access her hard-earned money before her 30th birthday. And now that she finally cut off her parents from her life, Idk how that will work.
Overall, it wasn't bad by any means, but there are many plot holes. The story has too much filler, and the important parts were either glossed over or mentioned in passing. If the story addressed almost everything, I probably wouldn't mind the page count. Unfortunately, there's too much buildup between the MCs, and their concerns weren't handled the way they should have been.
Also, the epilogue was lacking for me. Two weeks out is definitely not it. I was hoping for more, like them actually getting married in the human way. I get that they're married according to orc tradition, but since Gracie is human, I thought there would be something special for her. But there was a mention of them doing that at some point, but I'm not sure when exactly, so maybe this should be enough. 🙃
Book info:
- Orc x Human
- Fated mates
- Insta-love
- No cheating, OM/OW,
- Separation (2 days)
- V MMC, Experienced FMC
- HEA (they're fated, so...)
Ehhh, it was okay, I suppose. It's a straightforward story, so I don't understand why it needs to be over 300 pages, though. 🫣
It's insta-love—Tark just knew from the moment he met Gracie that she was his fated mate. Even with that fact, the story still dragged on, and tbh, it felt a bit dull in the middle.
Sure, there's attraction, but Tark didn't act on it and was very respectful and innocent. This big orc is a freaking softie, and I love that about him. But this personality gave him a bit of a beta vibe, and that might not sit well with some readers. But it worked for me, so... to each their own, I suppose.
I just wish there was a clear answer about what he plans to do with his passion. He's definitely not cut out for social media, but man, can he cook and bake! I hoped he had told his brother that this is what he wanted to do and that it would be his contribution to the ranch. Unfortunately, this felt more like a forgotten matter in the end. It was never brought up again. Also, I think he likes poems, but humans were so mean in the comments on his first attempt at posting on social media. I wish he didn't stop doing this. 🙁
Anyway, as for Gracie, sadly there's nothing much intriguing about her. I mean, there really isn't a whole lot to say, other than the fact that she is an actress who has stepped out of the limelight. It was like she was just there. 🤷♀️
Also, the storyline with her parents felt more like a filler. I wish they hadn't gotten anything from Tark, but that didn't happen. In the end, these greedy humans still got what they wanted. 😑 It also wasn't clear what would happen to Gracie's money (assuming it's really in the bank). Her age wasn't specified, but it was said she can't access her hard-earned money before her 30th birthday. And now that she finally cut off her parents from her life, Idk how that will work.
Overall, it wasn't bad by any means, but there are many plot holes. The story has too much filler, and the important parts were either glossed over or mentioned in passing. If the story addressed almost everything, I probably wouldn't mind the page count. Unfortunately, there's too much buildup between the MCs, and their concerns weren't handled the way they should have been.
Also, the epilogue was lacking for me. Two weeks out is definitely not it. I was hoping for more, like them actually getting married in the human way. I get that they're married according to orc tradition, but since Gracie is human, I thought there would be something special for her. But there was a mention of them doing that at some point, but I'm not sure when exactly, so maybe this should be enough. 🙃
Book info:
- Orc x Human
- Fated mates
- Insta-love
- No cheating, OM/OW,
- Separation (2 days)
- V MMC, Experienced FMC
- HEA (they're fated, so...)
January 10, 2026
3.5⭐️
A cute and simple orc cowboy spicy romance 🤠
Honestly, not a whole lot happened in this story. It feels like it occurred over the course of a few days. Maybe a week. Just felt super quick 😂
Tark was by far my favorite! His character is like a giant teddy bear and Snow White with all his furry friends! He was so cute and sweet I was giggling nonstop. Gracie though was a bit head scratching to me. She had the most random off the wall dialogue at times 😂 I don’t really know what to make of her. She does have a very traumatic childhood of being forced to grow up on a reality tv show. I also don’t think it’s very realistic for her to be able to disappear from the fame as well as be somewhat of a normal person? Maybe though that’s why she’s such a socially awkward person.
I loved the idea of the western themed tourist attraction the orc brothers thought up! They’re not really cowboys, just pretend cowboys so they can attract tourists to their western themed attraction 😂 I thought that was cute and fun.
Read if you’re looking for a cutesy and short romance with some excellent spice! 🥰
A cute and simple orc cowboy spicy romance 🤠
Honestly, not a whole lot happened in this story. It feels like it occurred over the course of a few days. Maybe a week. Just felt super quick 😂
Tark was by far my favorite! His character is like a giant teddy bear and Snow White with all his furry friends! He was so cute and sweet I was giggling nonstop. Gracie though was a bit head scratching to me. She had the most random off the wall dialogue at times 😂 I don’t really know what to make of her. She does have a very traumatic childhood of being forced to grow up on a reality tv show. I also don’t think it’s very realistic for her to be able to disappear from the fame as well as be somewhat of a normal person? Maybe though that’s why she’s such a socially awkward person.
I loved the idea of the western themed tourist attraction the orc brothers thought up! They’re not really cowboys, just pretend cowboys so they can attract tourists to their western themed attraction 😂 I thought that was cute and fun.
Read if you’re looking for a cutesy and short romance with some excellent spice! 🥰
June 24, 2025
2 ⭐️
Didn't hold my attention, even with a virgin MMC 😭
Also so confused on why she ignored him and didn't leave her room for a day after that call with her parents, and then a plant fell out the window? Fully lost on that part and it was never brought up
☆ Dual pov
☆ Virgin H/non-virgin h (not many details, just she's been with men in the past)
☆ Orc H/human h
☆ No cheating or OW/OM drama
☆ HFN ending + epilogue (2 weeks later just setting up next book in series)
Didn't hold my attention, even with a virgin MMC 😭
Also so confused on why she ignored him and didn't leave her room for a day after that call with her parents, and then a plant fell out the window? Fully lost on that part and it was never brought up
☆ Dual pov
☆ Virgin H/non-virgin h (not many details, just she's been with men in the past)
☆ Orc H/human h
☆ No cheating or OW/OM drama
☆ HFN ending + epilogue (2 weeks later just setting up next book in series)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2025
✨️ 3.5 stars ✨️
I really wanted to love this book and at the start, I thought it would be a great read.
Unfortunately it fell a little flat for me. The characters were a bit too sickly sweet for me and at times it gave me the ick. There's not a huge amount of plot in this book either.
I loved learning about the world Ava has created, I loved the animals and the writing style was good. I will read future books in this series.
I really wanted to love this book and at the start, I thought it would be a great read.
Unfortunately it fell a little flat for me. The characters were a bit too sickly sweet for me and at times it gave me the ick. There's not a huge amount of plot in this book either.
I loved learning about the world Ava has created, I loved the animals and the writing style was good. I will read future books in this series.
August 8, 2025
ohh that was fun
May 25, 2025
Wrangling the Orc Cowboy was sweet, fun time but, and I know how stupid this is going to sound because it’s literally a cowboy orc romance, some of the interactions were just so…unbelievable to me. During your first time meeting the orc you’re going to work for, you ask if he needs to take care of his massive… tusk? Really? I think I did the book a disservice by picking it up after what has been my favorite read of the year. I enjoyed myself and really liked Tark and Gracie but found myself nitpicking things that I don’t think would have typically bothered me.
MF, human x orc, cinnamon roll mmc, height difference, fated mates, rescue animal companions, small themed town
“Tark,” I said. “It was a joke. I'm not worried about gaining or carrying anything, let alone fifty pounds. I'm sorry. I should remember that human humor is new to you.”
“Oh, I… I accept your apology.” He leaned over the table, his face completely sincere. “But I will carry all your burdens. You don't even have to ask.”
MF, human x orc, cinnamon roll mmc, height difference, fated mates, rescue animal companions, small themed town
“Tark,” I said. “It was a joke. I'm not worried about gaining or carrying anything, let alone fifty pounds. I'm sorry. I should remember that human humor is new to you.”
“Oh, I… I accept your apology.” He leaned over the table, his face completely sincere. “But I will carry all your burdens. You don't even have to ask.”
October 23, 2025
I was in the mood for a cowboy romance but have been reading monster romance lately so I combined the two and picked this up. Tark, the orc in the story, is super awkward the whole book. He falls constantly and says human phrases wrong all the time and a lot of his jokes fell flat for me. Gracie is super confused on what she wants when it comes to their relationship. The whole thing starts with a random kiss out of nowhere that leads absolutely nowhere then later leads to random spice out of nowhere a couple days later and suddenly they are mated. I’m very confused by the relationship and how it all came about. It’s very instalove but the two are confused themselves about it. This also doesn’t take place on a real ranch. It’s a fake cowboy town orcs have created as a vacation getaway that isn’t even open to the public yet. So I didn’t much get my cowboy fix the way I wanted. I’m not sure I’ll be continuing this series. It wasn’t a bad book but it just wasn’t what I was looking for and was kind of awkward.
May 27, 2025
🤠 Bookish Thoughts
Tark is the sweetest gentle giant! I didn’t know I needed an orc cowboy in my life, but here we are. I loved his sensitive soul, and it made me sad how anxious he was.
He and Gracie were perfect together. I really felt for her, especially since her parents were the worst.
This was such a cute read overall!
My only gripe is the pacing. It started strong but slowed down quite a bit around the 40% mark. Still, I enjoyed it and I’m excited to keep going with the series!
Tark is the sweetest gentle giant! I didn’t know I needed an orc cowboy in my life, but here we are. I loved his sensitive soul, and it made me sad how anxious he was.
He and Gracie were perfect together. I really felt for her, especially since her parents were the worst.
This was such a cute read overall!
My only gripe is the pacing. It started strong but slowed down quite a bit around the 40% mark. Still, I enjoyed it and I’m excited to keep going with the series!
July 7, 2025
"He was solid, like someone had poured a mountain into a mold shaped like a male"
July 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Y’all. I didn’t know I needed an *orc cowboy* in my life, but now that I’ve met Tark, I’m wondering how I ever lived without him. He’s a *sweet, anxious, gentle giant* who probably apologizes to the cows if he thinks he startled them. I just wanted to wrap him in a blanket and tell him he’s doing amazing, sweetie.
Tark is the total opposite of what you'd expect when you hear “orc” and “cowboy” in the same sentence. No grunting rage monster here—just a big ol’ cinnamon roll in boots. And Gracie? She’s a tough cookie with toxic parents and a whole lot of heart. Together, they’re awkward, adorable, and ridiculously wholesome, like a Hallmark movie that accidentally stumbled into an alien romance convention.
This was a super cute, feel-good read with just enough spice and space-ranch drama to keep me smiling. My only real gripe? The *pacing*. It started out strong—like "yee-haw, let’s do this!"—but then around the 40% mark, things kind of… moseyed. Not in a bad way, just in a “wait, did I zone out or did nothing happen for a few chapters?” way.
Still, the vibes were on point, the characters were lovable, and I now have unrealistic expectations about finding an orc to help me mend fences and my heart.
3.5 stars, and yes—I’ll absolutely keep reading this series. Saddle up, space cowgirls. 🐄💚
Y’all. I didn’t know I needed an *orc cowboy* in my life, but now that I’ve met Tark, I’m wondering how I ever lived without him. He’s a *sweet, anxious, gentle giant* who probably apologizes to the cows if he thinks he startled them. I just wanted to wrap him in a blanket and tell him he’s doing amazing, sweetie.
Tark is the total opposite of what you'd expect when you hear “orc” and “cowboy” in the same sentence. No grunting rage monster here—just a big ol’ cinnamon roll in boots. And Gracie? She’s a tough cookie with toxic parents and a whole lot of heart. Together, they’re awkward, adorable, and ridiculously wholesome, like a Hallmark movie that accidentally stumbled into an alien romance convention.
This was a super cute, feel-good read with just enough spice and space-ranch drama to keep me smiling. My only real gripe? The *pacing*. It started out strong—like "yee-haw, let’s do this!"—but then around the 40% mark, things kind of… moseyed. Not in a bad way, just in a “wait, did I zone out or did nothing happen for a few chapters?” way.
Still, the vibes were on point, the characters were lovable, and I now have unrealistic expectations about finding an orc to help me mend fences and my heart.
3.5 stars, and yes—I’ll absolutely keep reading this series. Saddle up, space cowgirls. 🐄💚
August 8, 2025
Brides of the Lonesome Creek Orcs Series :
✅0.5 Saddling the Orc Cowboy (January 1, 2025) - 3.5
-GREEL BRONISH and JESSI
spin off vol. 12 "Fake Dating an Orc Cowboy"
belonging to the series Sweet Monster Treats
✅ 1. Wrangling the Orc Cowboy (2025) - 3.6
-TARK BRONISH and GRACIE WEEKS
✅ 2. Rough Riding Orc Cowboy (2025) -
-RUUGAR BRONISH and BETH
❌ 3. Buck Wild Orc Cowboy (2025)
❌ 4. Sweet Talking Orc Cowboy (2025)
❌ 5. Grinchy Orc Cowboy (2025)
❌ 6. Giddy Up Orc Cowboy (2026)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CY98PFKQ?...
✅0.5 Saddling the Orc Cowboy (January 1, 2025) - 3.5
-GREEL BRONISH and JESSI
spin off vol. 12 "Fake Dating an Orc Cowboy"
belonging to the series Sweet Monster Treats
✅ 1. Wrangling the Orc Cowboy (2025) - 3.6
-TARK BRONISH and GRACIE WEEKS
✅ 2. Rough Riding Orc Cowboy (2025) -
-RUUGAR BRONISH and BETH
❌ 3. Buck Wild Orc Cowboy (2025)
❌ 4. Sweet Talking Orc Cowboy (2025)
❌ 5. Grinchy Orc Cowboy (2025)
❌ 6. Giddy Up Orc Cowboy (2026)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CY98PFKQ?...
April 14, 2025
💚 “You're mine, Gracie. Mine to love, mine to pleasure.”
~~~
Gracie is so nice! She’s sweet, caring and compassionate. Even more, Gracie is so kind, understanding and supportive. A former reality TV star, she is now working hard to start her own influencer business. Gracie is such a sweetheart and I loved her so, so much!
Tark is the biggest orc in the Lonesome Creek Ranch and one absolutely incredible male! At first his size might be intimidating to others, but Tark’s heart is as big as his physique. He’s such a cinnamon roll - caring, thoughtful, patient and sweet. Yes, he’s also shy, clumsy and often bumbling, but all that made me love him even more. And this orc can cook, too! Tark is a truly wonderful and absolutely irresistible male and I adored everything about him!
I absolutely loved everything that happened between Gracie and Tark! Needing some social media help, Tark hires Gracie to help him promote the Lonesome Creek Ranch and the moment he touches her, the huge orc knows she’s meant to be his. I adored those two together! Their chemistry was fantastic from the very beginning and I loved every moment they spent in each other’s company. Gracie and Tark were truly the cutest! Even more, I loved that Gracie saw beyond Tark’s clumsy and awkward facade to discover the incredible male he truly is. And when they gave into the undeniable attraction, the passionate moments they shared were so hot! Tark is such an eager and passionate male, determined to do everything to please his woman. Gracie and Tark were absolutely perfect for each other and more than deserved to find happiness and love together.
Overall, Wrangling the Orc Cowboy is such a sweet, fun and cozy story and a fantastic start of the series.
I couldn’t put it down and absolutely loved every page of it!
And I cannot wait to see what will happen next in the Lonesome Creek Ranch.
P.S. Yes, now I want my own meowing raven!
~~~
Gracie is so nice! She’s sweet, caring and compassionate. Even more, Gracie is so kind, understanding and supportive. A former reality TV star, she is now working hard to start her own influencer business. Gracie is such a sweetheart and I loved her so, so much!
Tark is the biggest orc in the Lonesome Creek Ranch and one absolutely incredible male! At first his size might be intimidating to others, but Tark’s heart is as big as his physique. He’s such a cinnamon roll - caring, thoughtful, patient and sweet. Yes, he’s also shy, clumsy and often bumbling, but all that made me love him even more. And this orc can cook, too! Tark is a truly wonderful and absolutely irresistible male and I adored everything about him!
I absolutely loved everything that happened between Gracie and Tark! Needing some social media help, Tark hires Gracie to help him promote the Lonesome Creek Ranch and the moment he touches her, the huge orc knows she’s meant to be his. I adored those two together! Their chemistry was fantastic from the very beginning and I loved every moment they spent in each other’s company. Gracie and Tark were truly the cutest! Even more, I loved that Gracie saw beyond Tark’s clumsy and awkward facade to discover the incredible male he truly is. And when they gave into the undeniable attraction, the passionate moments they shared were so hot! Tark is such an eager and passionate male, determined to do everything to please his woman. Gracie and Tark were absolutely perfect for each other and more than deserved to find happiness and love together.
Overall, Wrangling the Orc Cowboy is such a sweet, fun and cozy story and a fantastic start of the series.
I couldn’t put it down and absolutely loved every page of it!
And I cannot wait to see what will happen next in the Lonesome Creek Ranch.
P.S. Yes, now I want my own meowing raven!
January 8, 2026
Series: Brides of the Lonesome Creek Orcs #1
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
Gracie is determined to escape her old life as a reality TV star. Heading to Lonesome Creek to work as their social media manager is only supposed to be temporary, but Gracie quickly realizes she loves it there, and she really likes the sweet and giant orc who has been showing her around.
I enjoyed this one. It was such a sweet story. Gracie is trying to escape her controlling and emotionally abusive parents and start a life on her own terms. In Lonesome Creek she finds true happiness and finally stands up for herself. I really liked how Gracie’s backstory was slowly unraveled and why she was so determined to escape her parents' control. I also liked that in the end we see her fight back against her parents, even if she knows it might be futile.
Tark was adorable! He is the biggest orc out of his siblings but he is also extremely clumsy and self-conscious of his body. We see him really struggle with his size and his fear of hurting Gracie. I also loved that he was such an animal lover and went out of his way to save animals. His pets were really cute. Tark was just a gentle giant that I instantly loved and was so happy to see find his mate.
Their relationship was super sweet but also had a few challenges. I loved how they fell for each other as Tarak showed her the town and all the attractions they are going to provide. There was a bit of lack of communication issues in this but nothing that lasted really long, which I appreciated. Also I loved how Tark may hate his size but he had no problems using it to protect Gracie and save her.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable fated mates romance. I think I am going to read more of this series and see how his other brothers find love.
TW: negative comments on social media; controlling and emotionally abusive parents; animal attack; attempted kidnapping; mentions of the exploitation of child actors
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
Gracie is determined to escape her old life as a reality TV star. Heading to Lonesome Creek to work as their social media manager is only supposed to be temporary, but Gracie quickly realizes she loves it there, and she really likes the sweet and giant orc who has been showing her around.
I enjoyed this one. It was such a sweet story. Gracie is trying to escape her controlling and emotionally abusive parents and start a life on her own terms. In Lonesome Creek she finds true happiness and finally stands up for herself. I really liked how Gracie’s backstory was slowly unraveled and why she was so determined to escape her parents' control. I also liked that in the end we see her fight back against her parents, even if she knows it might be futile.
Tark was adorable! He is the biggest orc out of his siblings but he is also extremely clumsy and self-conscious of his body. We see him really struggle with his size and his fear of hurting Gracie. I also loved that he was such an animal lover and went out of his way to save animals. His pets were really cute. Tark was just a gentle giant that I instantly loved and was so happy to see find his mate.
Their relationship was super sweet but also had a few challenges. I loved how they fell for each other as Tarak showed her the town and all the attractions they are going to provide. There was a bit of lack of communication issues in this but nothing that lasted really long, which I appreciated. Also I loved how Tark may hate his size but he had no problems using it to protect Gracie and save her.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable fated mates romance. I think I am going to read more of this series and see how his other brothers find love.
TW: negative comments on social media; controlling and emotionally abusive parents; animal attack; attempted kidnapping; mentions of the exploitation of child actors
January 13, 2026
So cozy & sweet
Did not expect this much wholesomeness from an orc cowboy book! You will fall in love with Tark immediately. I don't make the rules, thats just how it is!
He's such a big softie, a little clumsy (ok, a lot) but with a heart of gold. He's still learing the ways of the human world but is trying his best. Sharga and Podar are perfect companions for him. On the topic of Podar - I was a little confused for a second with the "front paws" mentioned twice - after we find out how Tark found him. Just a minor continuity issue, but it corrected itself pretty quick.
Gracie comes in and doesn't once try to "fix" Tark - even when he is completely oblivious to human customs such as why he probably shouldn't be touching her chest. She accepts his exactly the way he is, even when he can't quite believe it. Despite her parents needling her and being all around jerks, she stands her ground for her future. The relationship is sweet and wholesome, even when the spicy bits come up - very steamy, and Tark's hesitation is truly endearing. If an orc can find the "cleat", then nobody should ever settle for less!
Such an enjoyable read, I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
Did not expect this much wholesomeness from an orc cowboy book! You will fall in love with Tark immediately. I don't make the rules, thats just how it is!
He's such a big softie, a little clumsy (ok, a lot) but with a heart of gold. He's still learing the ways of the human world but is trying his best. Sharga and Podar are perfect companions for him. On the topic of Podar - I was a little confused for a second with the "front paws" mentioned twice - after we find out how Tark found him. Just a minor continuity issue, but it corrected itself pretty quick.
Gracie comes in and doesn't once try to "fix" Tark - even when he is completely oblivious to human customs such as why he probably shouldn't be touching her chest. She accepts his exactly the way he is, even when he can't quite believe it. Despite her parents needling her and being all around jerks, she stands her ground for her future. The relationship is sweet and wholesome, even when the spicy bits come up - very steamy, and Tark's hesitation is truly endearing. If an orc can find the "cleat", then nobody should ever settle for less!
Such an enjoyable read, I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
January 4, 2026
After reading some other reviews, it seems the things people dislike were things that I loved. Haha!
This book was lighthearted and sweet. Super wholesome. I think it was supposed to be. Tark is a big hearted orc, and my heart just broke for him and his embarrassment with his poem. If I wish anything I wish that would have been revisited so he could use the poem that cleary was special to him. I like that he didn’t let that experience harden him.
I love his softness and sweetness. He was so innocent and inexperienced with life. He learns Gracie is his mate and he just wants to be with her and make her happy. Truly the whole story just oozes, and I ate it up!!
There’s no deep conflict, or drawn out complex pain and suffering. I think those make great parts of a book, but sometimes a lighthearted, sweet and funny read is exactly what the brain needs, and this is it.
This book was lighthearted and sweet. Super wholesome. I think it was supposed to be. Tark is a big hearted orc, and my heart just broke for him and his embarrassment with his poem. If I wish anything I wish that would have been revisited so he could use the poem that cleary was special to him. I like that he didn’t let that experience harden him.
I love his softness and sweetness. He was so innocent and inexperienced with life. He learns Gracie is his mate and he just wants to be with her and make her happy. Truly the whole story just oozes, and I ate it up!!
There’s no deep conflict, or drawn out complex pain and suffering. I think those make great parts of a book, but sometimes a lighthearted, sweet and funny read is exactly what the brain needs, and this is it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2025
OMG what a cute story. Tark is a bumbling shy male who desperately needs some confidence. Luckily for him he's hired the perfect female. Gracie. Who is embarking on a new career.
Together they build a foundation of trust. Lets face it, these orcs can be pretty intimidating. From humble beginnings to an amazing love story.
Fate however isn't always a willing participant. There's always someone ready to watch you fail.
Gracie's parents are despicable human beings. She should have cut that cord long ago. Together Gracie and Tark both learn that they are strong and capable individuals.
This amazing read is an absolute page turner. A love story with a HEA
Great job Ava I cant wait for the next book!
Together they build a foundation of trust. Lets face it, these orcs can be pretty intimidating. From humble beginnings to an amazing love story.
Fate however isn't always a willing participant. There's always someone ready to watch you fail.
Gracie's parents are despicable human beings. She should have cut that cord long ago. Together Gracie and Tark both learn that they are strong and capable individuals.
This amazing read is an absolute page turner. A love story with a HEA
Great job Ava I cant wait for the next book!
April 16, 2025
This cozy monster romance is a heartwarming and steamy read that will leave you with a big smile. I loved Tark's adorable awkwardness. Tark is a true cinnamon roll hero – large and intimidating on the outside but incredibly sweet and unsure on the inside. Gracie is a strong and capable woman who finds unexpected comfort and love with Tark. I'm loving the charming and cozy world of Lonesome Creek!
A few stories take place before this, even though it is listed as book one:
Saddling the Orc Cowboy - Jessi and Greel's story (free with her newsletter signup)
Fake Dating an Orc Cowboy -Rosey and Oster's story (part of Sweet Monster Treats.)
It isn't completely necessary to read in order to enjoy it, but the characters make an appearance in this story.
A few stories take place before this, even though it is listed as book one:
Saddling the Orc Cowboy - Jessi and Greel's story (free with her newsletter signup)
Fake Dating an Orc Cowboy -Rosey and Oster's story (part of Sweet Monster Treats.)
It isn't completely necessary to read in order to enjoy it, but the characters make an appearance in this story.
April 30, 2025
What a sweet and cute couple couple, seriously. I couldn't get enough of Tark; he was this sweet, big oof who tried his best and who really just needed that reinforcement. I honestly would have tried my best for him, too, if I had been in Gracie's boots. The effort Tark made for Gracie was swoon-worthy, and I was there for it. Now Gracie, I loved that she was out to find herself and had found her place there. The moments both of them shared were hot, cute, and spicy. There were also a few times where there were laughs and heartfelt moments. The pace of the story flowed at a nice pace, and I was definitely entertained. I can't wait for the next book, and I definitely recommend this one.
June 9, 2025
A crow that meows, a three legged cougar and lots of fun
This is such a cute romance. A family of Orc brothers come from their world to make their way. They build a fake old Western town to host tourist and put on acts and destination vacations for those who want to be entertained by old west type of living. They need a person to help promote their town. Talk is the brother in charge of doing advertising etc. he finds he actually doesn’t know what he is doing so he hires Gracie to help. What follows is a tale of a clumsy Orc with a big heart who gets his social cues from old western movies.
I’m looking forward to the next book in this series. This one was so very cute and such a fun HEA.
This is such a cute romance. A family of Orc brothers come from their world to make their way. They build a fake old Western town to host tourist and put on acts and destination vacations for those who want to be entertained by old west type of living. They need a person to help promote their town. Talk is the brother in charge of doing advertising etc. he finds he actually doesn’t know what he is doing so he hires Gracie to help. What follows is a tale of a clumsy Orc with a big heart who gets his social cues from old western movies.
I’m looking forward to the next book in this series. This one was so very cute and such a fun HEA.
August 2, 2025
More Abuse Than Love and Romance
I've read a few of Ava Ross writings that I enjoyed but this story has too much parental emotional abuse, an extremely insecure hero who did not feel good about how others viewed him, and depressed female trying to escape parental abuse since childhood. It was not a pleasure to read this book.
This story also was so very wordy in an effort to expand the story that it took me over a week to finish. Reading the story would actually bore me so much that I would fall asleep in a short while each night. In my humble opinion this is not the type of "romance" that warms my heart.
Kindle Unlimited is my favorite Amazon feature due to the huge selection of books that covers many genres. Thank you Amazon!
I've read a few of Ava Ross writings that I enjoyed but this story has too much parental emotional abuse, an extremely insecure hero who did not feel good about how others viewed him, and depressed female trying to escape parental abuse since childhood. It was not a pleasure to read this book.
This story also was so very wordy in an effort to expand the story that it took me over a week to finish. Reading the story would actually bore me so much that I would fall asleep in a short while each night. In my humble opinion this is not the type of "romance" that warms my heart.
Kindle Unlimited is my favorite Amazon feature due to the huge selection of books that covers many genres. Thank you Amazon!
September 2, 2025
"No use dwelling on a puzzle that wasn’t ready to be solved."
Gracie is stepping away from her family, and the career they tried to force her into, and using her skills in a way she enjoys -- with high hopes it'll allow her to earn a living, and find independence.
Tark is an Orc trying to understand the human world and its strange use of language. Gracie just might be his salvation, she navigates her world with a grace and style he can't help but respect.
This done in one stand alone kindle unlimited book offers a powerful story about self-confidence, dealing with the Internet (and its trolls) and embracing the genuine and sincere people in our lives.
I am looking forward to more visits to Lonesome Creek.
Gracie is stepping away from her family, and the career they tried to force her into, and using her skills in a way she enjoys -- with high hopes it'll allow her to earn a living, and find independence.
Tark is an Orc trying to understand the human world and its strange use of language. Gracie just might be his salvation, she navigates her world with a grace and style he can't help but respect.
This done in one stand alone kindle unlimited book offers a powerful story about self-confidence, dealing with the Internet (and its trolls) and embracing the genuine and sincere people in our lives.
I am looking forward to more visits to Lonesome Creek.
April 16, 2025
This was a fab series opener and a wonderful romcom. Gracie and Tark were such a sweet and cute couple :) He's a huge orc that's rather clumsy but mostly because he knows she's his fated mate. Talk about a cinnamon roll! Gracie was a child star with a not-so-great upbringing, and she just fits Tark so well. Her parents, however, were quite the blight on their relationship but thankfully, these two figured out how strong they are together and got their HEA. Of course, this author includes fab side characters and adorable pets to keep things entertaining. I'm excited to see that there are more books to come and I can't wait :D
September 8, 2025
sweet
An adorable Orc “cowboy” meets his mate. Loved the change of a male that was not confident and awkward.
The former child reality star turned social media was a good character.
Not really buying that she would be successful in her business if she stayed in the western themed town. She would need to travel. As well have office setup with mixed use for her posting, etc.
on another note. Practical wise they built a ghost town. Who would be cleaning, delivering, cooking, washing and maintaining the town and event spaces? As well as booking, managing the varied locations. Then there is human, orc, animal wellness. Food and feed growing, etc.
An adorable Orc “cowboy” meets his mate. Loved the change of a male that was not confident and awkward.
The former child reality star turned social media was a good character.
Not really buying that she would be successful in her business if she stayed in the western themed town. She would need to travel. As well have office setup with mixed use for her posting, etc.
on another note. Practical wise they built a ghost town. Who would be cleaning, delivering, cooking, washing and maintaining the town and event spaces? As well as booking, managing the varied locations. Then there is human, orc, animal wellness. Food and feed growing, etc.
September 15, 2025
Such a sweet story!
Take was a great character in this story. Taller than his brothers and clumsy like a great Dane puppy, he had such a strong belief in how their tourist town would be a success. He just wasn't equipped to handle the job on social media. Gracie had been trapped in the entertainment world since she was six, and all she wanted, was to live her life, her way. Getting her selfish manipulative parents to stop trying to force her back into their reality show was a constant thing, but having a big ,devoted Orc as back-up was a win for her. Great HEA ending. Trish. A.
Take was a great character in this story. Taller than his brothers and clumsy like a great Dane puppy, he had such a strong belief in how their tourist town would be a success. He just wasn't equipped to handle the job on social media. Gracie had been trapped in the entertainment world since she was six, and all she wanted, was to live her life, her way. Getting her selfish manipulative parents to stop trying to force her back into their reality show was a constant thing, but having a big ,devoted Orc as back-up was a win for her. Great HEA ending. Trish. A.
April 7, 2025
Omg Tark!!! So sweet, so bumbling, so perfect! Love, love, love Gracie and Tark! Gracie is such a sweetheart who is trying to live her life away from the TV cameras that were forced on her. She's working hard to get her Influencer business under way when she is hired by Tark to do the Social Media for the ranch. As soon as he touches her he knows she is his fated mate. He is so shy and just so sweet that he keeps making a mess of things or at least he thinks he is. I so loved this couple! The book left me feeling so good. I happily recommend this book!
April 15, 2025
Ava Ross’s new series Brides of the Lonesome Creek Orcs book 1 is Wrangling the Orc Cowboy. There are two prequels! This book features shy and orcward 🤪 Tark who falls in love with former child star turned social media influencer Gracie. The two are adorkable! He loves to cook. She falls for the bumbling hulk. Her parents even attempt to kidnap her to do a reunion show and marry a jerk, but Tark tackles the escape car to save Gracie! Love this series about orcs building an Old West town for tourists!
August 27, 2025
Gracie and Tark
I love this series, each nee book they I read I love evenore, I started with book two and the then novelas só when I got to to this One I knew ut was another winner. Tark is such a cutie like they say on the book, he is huge even for a Orc but he has the soul of a poet. Gracie has a lot of bagagem and what She needs is suporte, and a calmer and simpler place to live and and tourist Orc Ranch is just the thing with an amazing Orc that Will do any thing for her and give her all the love She Never had. Amazing book
I love this series, each nee book they I read I love evenore, I started with book two and the then novelas só when I got to to this One I knew ut was another winner. Tark is such a cutie like they say on the book, he is huge even for a Orc but he has the soul of a poet. Gracie has a lot of bagagem and what She needs is suporte, and a calmer and simpler place to live and and tourist Orc Ranch is just the thing with an amazing Orc that Will do any thing for her and give her all the love She Never had. Amazing book
September 2, 2025
Am I going crazy??? The reviews for this were so good, but to be honest, I didn’t really like this. The writing was…. not the best and I found the dialogue lacking. I didn’t really care about any of the characters that much and found myself skimming through paragraphs just to get to the end. In general, the overview of the characters seemed kind of cute, but I thought the execution wasn’t really there. There wasn’t really any tension and maybe that’s the result of the whole “insta-love” thing, but I just didn’t really buy it. I won’t be continuing with this series.
2⭐️
2⭐️
April 5, 2025
Ava Ross has wrangled a five star read with this work! I love a cinnamon roll alpha orc! Throw in some adorable pets, Podar and Sharga and you get a romcom that has you smiling. Tark and Gracie have the perfect chemistry and the romance steams up your kindle screen. Best of all, it looks like another orc brother Ruugar will be chasing a runaway bride. Looks like there will be more fun in Book 2. I can’t wait! Enjoy readers❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
April 17, 2025
Gracie longs to escape the prison of reality TV she was thrust into as a child by her awful parents. She takes a new job and meets her new life. Tark knows she's his mate immediately. But he needs her to see him beyond the awkwardness in his speech and his clumsy feet. Our author shows us how important trust and communication are in a relationship. Truly a wonderful sweet monster romance with all the feels.
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