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How to Lose a Goblin in Ten Days
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HOW TO LOSE A GOBLIN IN TEN DAYS is a comfort read fantasy romance between a halfling and a goblin. Imagine a classic opposites-attract romcom taking place in a cosy fantasy setting. Expect romantasy, magical forests, interfering wizards, lots of home cooking and maybe even a kiss at the Harvest dance...
When a halfling, Pansy, and a goblin, Ren, each think they've inherited the same cottage, they make a they'll live in the house together and whoever is driven out first forfeits their ownership. Amidst forced proximity and cultural misunderstandings, the two begin to fall in love.
But when the cottage - and their communities - are threatened by a common enemy, the duo must learn to trust each other, and convince goblins and halflings to band together to oust the tall intruder.
What if cottagecore and goblincore fell in love? This debut is perfect for all fans of cosy fantasies such as The Spell Shop, Legends and Lattes and The House in the Cerulean Sea, as well as any reader who really wishes they could live in the Shire from The Lord of the Rings.
When a halfling, Pansy, and a goblin, Ren, each think they've inherited the same cottage, they make a they'll live in the house together and whoever is driven out first forfeits their ownership. Amidst forced proximity and cultural misunderstandings, the two begin to fall in love.
But when the cottage - and their communities - are threatened by a common enemy, the duo must learn to trust each other, and convince goblins and halflings to band together to oust the tall intruder.
What if cottagecore and goblincore fell in love? This debut is perfect for all fans of cosy fantasies such as The Spell Shop, Legends and Lattes and The House in the Cerulean Sea, as well as any reader who really wishes they could live in the Shire from The Lord of the Rings.
10 pages, Audible Audio
Expected publication January 20, 2026
106 people are currently reading
13863 people want to read
About the author
Jessie Sylva
2 books62 followersJessie is a recovering lawyer living in Toronto with her wife and two cats. She writes SFF with an emphasis on queer joy, telling stories full of magic, adventure, and, of course, kissing. When she's not writing, Jessie can be found tinkering with custom mechanical keyboards and raiding online in Final Fantasy XIV.
Her debut, HOW TO LOSE A GOBLIN IN 10 DAYS, is coming out from Orbit in 2026.
Her debut, HOW TO LOSE A GOBLIN IN 10 DAYS, is coming out from Orbit in 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
November 15, 2025
I was super excited for the cozy hobbit x goblin romance and while it turned out to be a perfectly fine and enjoyable story, it also just wasn't very well-developed in many places.
The whole story starts when the halfling Pansy moves out of her family's home and into a cottage in the woods that her late grandmother left to her. But it turns out that the cottage isn't actually unoccupied, because Pansy stumbles upon the goblin Ren who claims to have been taking care of the place for years. Halflings and goblins historically don't get along and both characters view the other in a very negative way. Pansy believes goblins to be evil and violent and always keen on helping the next dark wizard, while Ren views halflings as dumb, careless and gluttonous. The way the prejudices were presented was very heavy-handed and thus pretty awkward to read about. It was just unimaginable to these characters that members of other races could simply just be people too and it made both races seem uneducated. It was also pretty clear that the story would go into the the-prejudices-are-all-false direction and really none of that was presented in a subtle or clever way. The whole conflict was broken down to the absolute basics when it's actually one of the main themes of this book and constantly talked about. It kinda gave a middle grade feel to the book, although I've read plenty of middle grade novels that are nuanced and well-developed. Still, the story wasn't unpleasant to read. I liked how Pansy and Ren made a deal about trying to drive the other out of the cottage and how eventually at least some explanations about the goblin and halfling history were brought up. It was nice how both characters defended their way of living and tried to explain it to the other. I think the author could have dived way more into their respective cultures, because there were some nice and interesting ideas presented there. The halflings value food and cooking and eating together, and they are looking for comfort and joy, because there were times when that wasn't possible. The goblins try to live in harmony with nature and they learn from it and take only the bare minimum of what is necessary to survive. There are also little extracts from various in-world books that were very cute and actually gave a good insight into the cultures of halflings and goblins. All that could have been easily used to describe the conflict better from the beginning, but instead it just felt petty and oversimplified. I think some more developmental editing could have improved the story immensely here. (It's possible that the final version differs from the arc copy that I read, though.)
The romance is a traditional grumpy x sunshine with both characters slowly warming up to the other's way of living. They share insights into their culture and stories from the past and they both also open up about some serious problems that they and their loved ones have to face. It was still unclear to me where the romantic feelings really came from. Take Pansy for instance. She meets Ren for the second time and is all frustrated over goblins as always, but then she suddenly thinks that Ren looks kinda cute. No nuance whatsoever. Sometimes multiple weeks passed between chapters, but it's not like the reader really notices the passing of time and ultimately the romance moved with the speed of lightning and it was really hard to see and feel what the character apparently did. (Spoiler: )
Overall it's a simple story that might as well simply turn out to be a nice and pleasant read for other people. But once I started to think a little harder about certain plot elements or began to question character decisions, it lost quite a bit of its original appeal. The book has a good premise and it had all the potential to be a fantastic, cozy read, but I just see too many flaws here to be able to recommend it without reservations.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK | Orbit for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.
--------------------------
Pre-read: Excuse me, is this a cozy hobbit fantasy?! I will be reading.
The whole story starts when the halfling Pansy moves out of her family's home and into a cottage in the woods that her late grandmother left to her. But it turns out that the cottage isn't actually unoccupied, because Pansy stumbles upon the goblin Ren who claims to have been taking care of the place for years. Halflings and goblins historically don't get along and both characters view the other in a very negative way. Pansy believes goblins to be evil and violent and always keen on helping the next dark wizard, while Ren views halflings as dumb, careless and gluttonous. The way the prejudices were presented was very heavy-handed and thus pretty awkward to read about. It was just unimaginable to these characters that members of other races could simply just be people too and it made both races seem uneducated. It was also pretty clear that the story would go into the the-prejudices-are-all-false direction and really none of that was presented in a subtle or clever way. The whole conflict was broken down to the absolute basics when it's actually one of the main themes of this book and constantly talked about. It kinda gave a middle grade feel to the book, although I've read plenty of middle grade novels that are nuanced and well-developed. Still, the story wasn't unpleasant to read. I liked how Pansy and Ren made a deal about trying to drive the other out of the cottage and how eventually at least some explanations about the goblin and halfling history were brought up. It was nice how both characters defended their way of living and tried to explain it to the other. I think the author could have dived way more into their respective cultures, because there were some nice and interesting ideas presented there. The halflings value food and cooking and eating together, and they are looking for comfort and joy, because there were times when that wasn't possible. The goblins try to live in harmony with nature and they learn from it and take only the bare minimum of what is necessary to survive. There are also little extracts from various in-world books that were very cute and actually gave a good insight into the cultures of halflings and goblins. All that could have been easily used to describe the conflict better from the beginning, but instead it just felt petty and oversimplified. I think some more developmental editing could have improved the story immensely here. (It's possible that the final version differs from the arc copy that I read, though.)
The romance is a traditional grumpy x sunshine with both characters slowly warming up to the other's way of living. They share insights into their culture and stories from the past and they both also open up about some serious problems that they and their loved ones have to face. It was still unclear to me where the romantic feelings really came from. Take Pansy for instance. She meets Ren for the second time and is all frustrated over goblins as always, but then she suddenly thinks that Ren looks kinda cute. No nuance whatsoever. Sometimes multiple weeks passed between chapters, but it's not like the reader really notices the passing of time and ultimately the romance moved with the speed of lightning and it was really hard to see and feel what the character apparently did. (Spoiler: )
Overall it's a simple story that might as well simply turn out to be a nice and pleasant read for other people. But once I started to think a little harder about certain plot elements or began to question character decisions, it lost quite a bit of its original appeal. The book has a good premise and it had all the potential to be a fantastic, cozy read, but I just see too many flaws here to be able to recommend it without reservations.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK | Orbit for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.
--------------------------
Pre-read: Excuse me, is this a cozy hobbit fantasy?! I will be reading.
Want to read
February 17, 2025oh, this is going to be a need for me
December 2, 2025
Thank you to the publisher Little Brown Book Group UK for providing this book for review purposes via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This book read like a love letter to the world of Middle Earth/The Hobbit with a dash of the magic from How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days and a generous sprinkle of grumpy/sunshine romance. I loved every second of this book, I have no complaints and only positive things to say about this book. This was a very cosy slow burn fantasy romance, I loved Pansy and I loved Ren. I loved that Pansy wasn’t a typical Halfling, she just really wanted a place to belong where her open and inquisitive nature wouldn’t be so frowned up and so her grandmother’s cottage is the perfect place for her. Ren on the other hand needs the cottage to feed their goblin clan, I really liked Ren and their wicked smirk. These two both felt misunderstood, it was hilarious when their best efforts to drive the other out of the cottage fell rather flat. What I loved most was although Ren was rather grumpy and surly to begin with they showed their concern about Pansy being out in the dark from the moment they met. Our couple had generations of cultural misunderstandings, preconceived ideas and prejudice to work through, I loved how this was written and as the book said where there are Halflings there are also goblins, so the two species have more in common than they thought.
I think fans of the world of Middle Earth and cosy romances will love this book, I did. I was cheering for Pansy and Ren through out, this book was really beautifully written.
This book read like a love letter to the world of Middle Earth/The Hobbit with a dash of the magic from How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days and a generous sprinkle of grumpy/sunshine romance. I loved every second of this book, I have no complaints and only positive things to say about this book. This was a very cosy slow burn fantasy romance, I loved Pansy and I loved Ren. I loved that Pansy wasn’t a typical Halfling, she just really wanted a place to belong where her open and inquisitive nature wouldn’t be so frowned up and so her grandmother’s cottage is the perfect place for her. Ren on the other hand needs the cottage to feed their goblin clan, I really liked Ren and their wicked smirk. These two both felt misunderstood, it was hilarious when their best efforts to drive the other out of the cottage fell rather flat. What I loved most was although Ren was rather grumpy and surly to begin with they showed their concern about Pansy being out in the dark from the moment they met. Our couple had generations of cultural misunderstandings, preconceived ideas and prejudice to work through, I loved how this was written and as the book said where there are Halflings there are also goblins, so the two species have more in common than they thought.
I think fans of the world of Middle Earth and cosy romances will love this book, I did. I was cheering for Pansy and Ren through out, this book was really beautifully written.
Want to read
February 15, 2025Don't give one single fuck what this is about, the title belongs on my bookshelf
November 16, 2025
A blend of The Lord of the Rings and Stardew Valley, with a dash of rivals to lovers, this book is a delightful cozy fantasy treat.
Pansy Underburrow, a halfling from the quaint village of Haverow, has always felt like an outsider, valuing adventure and curiosity over tradition and conformity. When she leaves town to live in her grandmother’s woodsy cottage, inherited after her passing, she discovers the home is already occupied. Ren Woodward has just been appointed by their goblin clan as the ‘Caretaker’ of the abandoned cottage, using it as a safe haven and farm to provide food and supplies for their starving clan. With both residents feeling more entitled to the cottage than the other, they strike a deal: they’ll live there together until one of them gives up and moves out. But Ren and Pansy both have their own reasons they can’t walk away, and if they have to endure a cute roommate who drives them up the wall in the meantime, so be it.
I typically don’t do this, but I actually want to start with my critiques, as I feel it best reflects my chronological experience with this book. I had one singular issue, and while it only affected the first ~35%, it was almost enough to make me DNF. The initial bargain over the cottage sets great stakes and pulled me in right away, but the competition between Pansy and Ren quickly devolves into petty, childish antics, with both characters doing everything they can to make the other miserable. I think the core component of cozy fantasy is to give the reader a peaceful, meditative, and comfortable experience. When I was reading about these characters dumping dirt on furniture and lobbing harmful stereotypes at each other, I didn’t feel relaxed at all, I felt annoyed and stressed. Since I was expecting a more calming read, this fraught tension ended up setting the mood completely wrong for me.
However! Once the book moved past this early roadblock and their relationship shifted into a shy, burgeoning romance, the warm and comforting atmosphere of the story was finally able to unfold, and I was completely entranced. I actually adored both Pansy and Ren from the start, which is probably why it was so disheartening to watch them tear into each other, so once they began to coexist peacefully, I became fully immersed in this cozy world. The descriptions of the overgrown cabin, mouthwatering meals, and lush forest were vivid and inviting, and I thought the book struck that perfect cozy-fantasy level of indulgent detail. While the plot occasionally edges toward being a bit too intense for the genre, I thought the overarching story and “villain” were well executed, thematically cohesive, and, most importantly, never out of place or reliant on cheap tropes.
Additionally, once the characters stopped terrorizing each other, the main conflict in their relationship shifts to their cultural differences and the effort required to build trust and understanding. Their respective cultures carry generations of prejudice, and at times it’s an uphill battle for Ren and Pansy to overcome the harmful assumptions they’ve inherited. I found this dynamic of cautiously and earnestly asking questions, occasionally making mistakes and learning from them, and finding a middle ground so compelling and well handled. It always felt respectful, and it was satisfying to watch the slow realization of how well they could work together once they set aside old grievances, and how they might even restore peace between their communities.
All in all, this was great! It definitely shows signs of a debut, but I truly enjoyed my reading experience, and I’m excited to see where the author goes next. As for recommendations, I cannot emphasize the Stardew Valley comparison enough, it hits the same excellent beats of restoring an abandoned cottage and garden, spending time in a cozy village full of often-grouchy locals, traveling through a secluded forest, and enjoying similar festivities like a harvest festival and night market. I think fans of the game could find a new favorite book here. This would also be a fantastic pick for readers who love cozy fantasy, wish they could live in the Shire, or enjoy a good opposites-attract, rivals-to-lovers romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pansy Underburrow, a halfling from the quaint village of Haverow, has always felt like an outsider, valuing adventure and curiosity over tradition and conformity. When she leaves town to live in her grandmother’s woodsy cottage, inherited after her passing, she discovers the home is already occupied. Ren Woodward has just been appointed by their goblin clan as the ‘Caretaker’ of the abandoned cottage, using it as a safe haven and farm to provide food and supplies for their starving clan. With both residents feeling more entitled to the cottage than the other, they strike a deal: they’ll live there together until one of them gives up and moves out. But Ren and Pansy both have their own reasons they can’t walk away, and if they have to endure a cute roommate who drives them up the wall in the meantime, so be it.
I typically don’t do this, but I actually want to start with my critiques, as I feel it best reflects my chronological experience with this book. I had one singular issue, and while it only affected the first ~35%, it was almost enough to make me DNF. The initial bargain over the cottage sets great stakes and pulled me in right away, but the competition between Pansy and Ren quickly devolves into petty, childish antics, with both characters doing everything they can to make the other miserable. I think the core component of cozy fantasy is to give the reader a peaceful, meditative, and comfortable experience. When I was reading about these characters dumping dirt on furniture and lobbing harmful stereotypes at each other, I didn’t feel relaxed at all, I felt annoyed and stressed. Since I was expecting a more calming read, this fraught tension ended up setting the mood completely wrong for me.
However! Once the book moved past this early roadblock and their relationship shifted into a shy, burgeoning romance, the warm and comforting atmosphere of the story was finally able to unfold, and I was completely entranced. I actually adored both Pansy and Ren from the start, which is probably why it was so disheartening to watch them tear into each other, so once they began to coexist peacefully, I became fully immersed in this cozy world. The descriptions of the overgrown cabin, mouthwatering meals, and lush forest were vivid and inviting, and I thought the book struck that perfect cozy-fantasy level of indulgent detail. While the plot occasionally edges toward being a bit too intense for the genre, I thought the overarching story and “villain” were well executed, thematically cohesive, and, most importantly, never out of place or reliant on cheap tropes.
Additionally, once the characters stopped terrorizing each other, the main conflict in their relationship shifts to their cultural differences and the effort required to build trust and understanding. Their respective cultures carry generations of prejudice, and at times it’s an uphill battle for Ren and Pansy to overcome the harmful assumptions they’ve inherited. I found this dynamic of cautiously and earnestly asking questions, occasionally making mistakes and learning from them, and finding a middle ground so compelling and well handled. It always felt respectful, and it was satisfying to watch the slow realization of how well they could work together once they set aside old grievances, and how they might even restore peace between their communities.
All in all, this was great! It definitely shows signs of a debut, but I truly enjoyed my reading experience, and I’m excited to see where the author goes next. As for recommendations, I cannot emphasize the Stardew Valley comparison enough, it hits the same excellent beats of restoring an abandoned cottage and garden, spending time in a cozy village full of often-grouchy locals, traveling through a secluded forest, and enjoying similar festivities like a harvest festival and night market. I think fans of the game could find a new favorite book here. This would also be a fantastic pick for readers who love cozy fantasy, wish they could live in the Shire, or enjoy a good opposites-attract, rivals-to-lovers romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2026
Oh, this book was so sweet. I always enjoy cozy, warm fantasy stories where the stakes aren’t too high and you can gently flow through the narrative. These days, I even prefer them to romantasies. This story follows Pansy and Ren, two unlikely friends who develop a gentle love and understanding despite tension between their clans.
I also have to point out the amazing narrator—she was fabulous and did a wonderful job bringing the story to life.
Thank you to @HachetteAudio and NetGalley for providing me with an audio ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Overall rating: 4 stars
I also have to point out the amazing narrator—she was fabulous and did a wonderful job bringing the story to life.
Thank you to @HachetteAudio and NetGalley for providing me with an audio ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Overall rating: 4 stars
December 23, 2025
(3.5 stars rounded up)
How to Lose a Goblin in Ten Days is a sweet, cozy fantasy that leans fully into low stakes and gentle vibes. The story is very simple, and like other cozy fantasy books, there is not a lot of plot heavy action going on. Still, it was engaging enough to keep me invested, especially in Pansy and Ren’s relationship. I genuinely laughed out loud at a few moments, which is always a win for me.
The pacing starts off on the slower side, but once Pansy and Ren’s relationship becomes more established, the story really picks up. I loved both of their characters and how they actively work against societal prejudice while trying to bring the halfling and goblin communities together. Reading from both POVs was enjoyable, and the little poems at the start of each chapter were such a lovely and charming touch.
The romance leans into the grumpy and sunshine trope, and it was undeniably sweet. That said, even for a cozy fantasy, the stakes felt very low. I went in expecting minimal drama or angst, but at times I found myself wishing there was just a bit more. I wanted more tension or more emotional payoff to deepen the impact.
Oh, and I cannot forget to mention the absolute cuteness explosion that happened when a cat named Mushroom appeared in the story. Truly adorable.
Overall, this was a great book for spring. Its brightness, warmth, and sunshine vibes are sure to brighten your day.
Thank you to Orbit Books US for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review.
How to Lose a Goblin in Ten Days is a sweet, cozy fantasy that leans fully into low stakes and gentle vibes. The story is very simple, and like other cozy fantasy books, there is not a lot of plot heavy action going on. Still, it was engaging enough to keep me invested, especially in Pansy and Ren’s relationship. I genuinely laughed out loud at a few moments, which is always a win for me.
The pacing starts off on the slower side, but once Pansy and Ren’s relationship becomes more established, the story really picks up. I loved both of their characters and how they actively work against societal prejudice while trying to bring the halfling and goblin communities together. Reading from both POVs was enjoyable, and the little poems at the start of each chapter were such a lovely and charming touch.
The romance leans into the grumpy and sunshine trope, and it was undeniably sweet. That said, even for a cozy fantasy, the stakes felt very low. I went in expecting minimal drama or angst, but at times I found myself wishing there was just a bit more. I wanted more tension or more emotional payoff to deepen the impact.
Oh, and I cannot forget to mention the absolute cuteness explosion that happened when a cat named Mushroom appeared in the story. Truly adorable.
Overall, this was a great book for spring. Its brightness, warmth, and sunshine vibes are sure to brighten your day.
Thank you to Orbit Books US for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 8, 2025
Definitely consider this if you're after a super-sweet cottagecore fantasy romance, but I had some reservations.
I would have loved this to have another round of developmental editing. I liked the general premise -- a halfling inheriting her grandmother's cottage discovers that it has not, as thought, been left empty for 20+ years, but is in fact the new home to a goblin who has inherited a Caretaker role from their aunt. The two immediately clash in what might read as cute if you love a little light enemies to lovers action, but that's not my best trope, and I found their behaviour petty and childish. I also thought their serious cultural differences and racial history were then resolved much too easily in favour of getting to a kiss ... ditto the big climax which didn't really land for me as a convincing outcome given the weight of what had gone before.
I am in no way against cosy books, but I don't want the cosiness at the cost of thoughtful world-building, solid character development, and stakes that feel real to the protagonists & impact them consistently.
As a light, easy read, it has a kitten, and baking, and other typical cosy beats -- all fine. I just wanted more out of it personally.
This review is based upon a complimentary advance reading copy provided by the publisher.
I would have loved this to have another round of developmental editing. I liked the general premise -- a halfling inheriting her grandmother's cottage discovers that it has not, as thought, been left empty for 20+ years, but is in fact the new home to a goblin who has inherited a Caretaker role from their aunt. The two immediately clash in what might read as cute if you love a little light enemies to lovers action, but that's not my best trope, and I found their behaviour petty and childish. I also thought their serious cultural differences and racial history were then resolved much too easily in favour of getting to a kiss ... ditto the big climax which didn't really land for me as a convincing outcome given the weight of what had gone before.
I am in no way against cosy books, but I don't want the cosiness at the cost of thoughtful world-building, solid character development, and stakes that feel real to the protagonists & impact them consistently.
As a light, easy read, it has a kitten, and baking, and other typical cosy beats -- all fine. I just wanted more out of it personally.
This review is based upon a complimentary advance reading copy provided by the publisher.
December 19, 2025
I picked this one up thinking it'd be a warm hug after reading a particularly graphic horror novel about child abuse, and it did provide a good palate cleanser. I do think people who read nothing but cozy fantasy will find this LOTR meets Stardew Valley cottagecore fantasy delightful. But in this case, I think the love story could have been served better by higher stakes and less saccharine cuteness. This low-angst story gave me a toothache, it was so sweet.
It also has very little to do with the 00s rom com that inspired the title, so don't go in expecting a retelling.
Pansy, who has never fit in with her village with her eccentric ways and adventurous spirit, is a halfling who moves into her grandmother's cottage. Only the cottage hasn't been abandoned. A cranky goblin named Ren has been looking after it, squatting in the halfling world and making sure it didn't go to rot in a goblin's terms.
The two overcome their opposite natures and develop feelings for each other in this charming fantasy romance as they fix up the cottage and learn to live with each other's cultural differences (and of course there is just one bed, a trope I rarely see done in a not-ridiculous fashion).
In this case I felt their very real racial and cultural differences, and some very hurtful, deep-seated prejudice, were just too glossed over by cute banter and longing looks. These weren't just the simple misunderstandings that they were treated as, they were hurtful; like when Pansy smashed Ren's plants, or when Pansy gave Ren a flower crown, not knowing that it was a proposal in goblin culture (Oh it is! I guess I'll just marry you then because I'm so happy! was her essential response.)
And at the beginning, when they were still acrimonious, their friends thought they had a crush just because they were on a first-name basis with their roommate? Allosexuals are so weird.
I did enjoy the two of them together and thought they made a cute pair. I liked the way these two outcasts learned to work together, loved the descriptions of halfling cooking and goblin herbalism, and I loved Mushroom the cat and the pet pig.
But I felt the commitment to the cozy trope meant this could have been a great romance but instead was kind of a forgettable one. Their differences weren't just grumpy and sunshine, they were very high stakes differences that needed to be addressed in a high stakes manner. The prejudice was overly sanitized. So in the end I just got kind of bored and kept wondering if cozy fantasy really is the genre for me even though I keep picking them up, hoping for one to blow me away. I often seem to want more than a warm hug.
So in short: If you already love cozy fantasy you will find this charming, but this one just wasn't for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It also has very little to do with the 00s rom com that inspired the title, so don't go in expecting a retelling.
Pansy, who has never fit in with her village with her eccentric ways and adventurous spirit, is a halfling who moves into her grandmother's cottage. Only the cottage hasn't been abandoned. A cranky goblin named Ren has been looking after it, squatting in the halfling world and making sure it didn't go to rot in a goblin's terms.
The two overcome their opposite natures and develop feelings for each other in this charming fantasy romance as they fix up the cottage and learn to live with each other's cultural differences (and of course there is just one bed, a trope I rarely see done in a not-ridiculous fashion).
In this case I felt their very real racial and cultural differences, and some very hurtful, deep-seated prejudice, were just too glossed over by cute banter and longing looks. These weren't just the simple misunderstandings that they were treated as, they were hurtful; like when Pansy smashed Ren's plants, or when Pansy gave Ren a flower crown, not knowing that it was a proposal in goblin culture (Oh it is! I guess I'll just marry you then because I'm so happy! was her essential response.)
And at the beginning, when they were still acrimonious, their friends thought they had a crush just because they were on a first-name basis with their roommate? Allosexuals are so weird.
I did enjoy the two of them together and thought they made a cute pair. I liked the way these two outcasts learned to work together, loved the descriptions of halfling cooking and goblin herbalism, and I loved Mushroom the cat and the pet pig.
But I felt the commitment to the cozy trope meant this could have been a great romance but instead was kind of a forgettable one. Their differences weren't just grumpy and sunshine, they were very high stakes differences that needed to be addressed in a high stakes manner. The prejudice was overly sanitized. So in the end I just got kind of bored and kept wondering if cozy fantasy really is the genre for me even though I keep picking them up, hoping for one to blow me away. I often seem to want more than a warm hug.
So in short: If you already love cozy fantasy you will find this charming, but this one just wasn't for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 28, 2025
This book is a warm hug and a ray of sunshine on paper. I was smiling giggling and cheering these characters on the entire time I read this. The cozy vibes and hobbit-esque setting and characters made this such an enjoyable read for me and I look forward to hopefully a book two between blossom and thorn!!!!. The characters were so lovable and the story is heartwarming- to anyone looking for a lighthearted cozy read and anyone in need of a good escape, this one’s for you
October 18, 2025
How to Lose a Goblin in Ten Days is a cute, fun, cottagcore cozy fantasy. I enjoyed every moment getting to know our main characters, Pansy and Ren, and their navigation of life, love, and conflict. What do you get when a halfling and a goblin both lay claim to a cottage in the woods? You get a great debut novel by Jessie Sylva!
Thank you NetGalley and Orbit Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Orbit Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2025
Title: How To Lose A Goblin In Ten Days
Author: Jessie Sylva
Synopsis: How to Lose a Goblin in Ten Days is a comfort read fantasy romance between a halfling and a goblin: imagine a classic opposites-attract romcom taking place in those cosy scenes in the hobbits' Shire from The Lord of the Rings. Expect magical forests, interfering wizards, lots of home cooking, and maybe even a kiss at the Harvest dance...
When a halfling, Pansy, and a goblin, Ren, each think they've inherited the same cottage, they make a bargain: they'll live in the house together and whoever is driven out first forfeits their ownership. Amidst forced proximity and cultural misunderstandings, the two begin to fall in love.
But when the cottage - and their communities - are threatened by a common enemy, the duo must learn to trust each other, and convince goblins and halflings to band together to oust the tall intruder.
Review: What a wonderful cozy fantasy! It felt like receiving a warm hug every chapter I was reading! The world felt so warm and inviting! The slow burn this book had me in a tight grip! I was enjoyed all of the scenes with Pansy and Ren! The chemistry between Pansy and Ren was great! It moved at a good pace where it didn’t feel rushed at all! This was a great escape and I forgot everything else that going on around me! This book left me in such a happy mood! If you love a cozy fantasy with an adorable romance that has you routing for the main characters this book is for!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book in advance!
Author: Jessie Sylva
Synopsis: How to Lose a Goblin in Ten Days is a comfort read fantasy romance between a halfling and a goblin: imagine a classic opposites-attract romcom taking place in those cosy scenes in the hobbits' Shire from The Lord of the Rings. Expect magical forests, interfering wizards, lots of home cooking, and maybe even a kiss at the Harvest dance...
When a halfling, Pansy, and a goblin, Ren, each think they've inherited the same cottage, they make a bargain: they'll live in the house together and whoever is driven out first forfeits their ownership. Amidst forced proximity and cultural misunderstandings, the two begin to fall in love.
But when the cottage - and their communities - are threatened by a common enemy, the duo must learn to trust each other, and convince goblins and halflings to band together to oust the tall intruder.
Review: What a wonderful cozy fantasy! It felt like receiving a warm hug every chapter I was reading! The world felt so warm and inviting! The slow burn this book had me in a tight grip! I was enjoyed all of the scenes with Pansy and Ren! The chemistry between Pansy and Ren was great! It moved at a good pace where it didn’t feel rushed at all! This was a great escape and I forgot everything else that going on around me! This book left me in such a happy mood! If you love a cozy fantasy with an adorable romance that has you routing for the main characters this book is for!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book in advance!
December 7, 2025
What a terrifically cute tale of a halfling and a goblin falling in love! The very definition of a low stakes story. This book is filled with scenes of people speaking from their own prejudices but learning from their mistakes and growing to be better for it. Lots of communication and while sometimes it seems like things gets resolved a little too easily, overall that didn't matter much when I was clearly along for the nice joyful ride.
The characters are lovely and it is a great rep of a queer romance (AFAB and Enby). Overall, the cute softness of the characters made me willing to overlook much and just ride along on all the good feelings to the end. Sometimes we all just want a super happy ending and that is ok.
Thanks to Netgalley and Little Brown Book for the ARC.
The characters are lovely and it is a great rep of a queer romance (AFAB and Enby). Overall, the cute softness of the characters made me willing to overlook much and just ride along on all the good feelings to the end. Sometimes we all just want a super happy ending and that is ok.
Thanks to Netgalley and Little Brown Book for the ARC.
January 16, 2026
Forced proximity, but make it goblin-core.
Arc from NetGalley
Arc from NetGalley
November 2, 2025
Do you like cute, sweet and cozy? If the answer is yes than this book is for you. A great book to slow down and take a look around at a different world. I personally think I'm not the right reader for this book. I thought I wanted cute and cozy but in reality it was too cute and cozy for me. I'm also not saying anything bad about pronouns but reading pronouns was difficult for me and never became easier. I still give this book a four . It is a good book just wasn't for me.
November 16, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Little, Brown UK for an early e-galley of this book. My opinions are my own.
Hmm. So I half enjoyed this book and half rolled my eyes at it. It read like someone who loves D&D trying their hand at romantic fanfiction for the first time.
The emotions of the characters were so extreme - they’d be crying one minute then SO angry the next. And everything was “fizzing like fireworks” (not a direct quote, but you get the gist), it was like no-one could regulate their emotions in the slightest.
I liked the characters Ren and Pansy, aside from this issue, they did seem like their own people and it didn’t take long to realise who’s chapter I was reading if I’d missed the name at the start. But I found myself going “oh my god, really??” at all the misunderstandings that got resolved in a few pages, and the tropes I used to only see in middle grade books of the noughties.
The villain of the story also seemed to give up far too quickly for my liking, his only motivation was scuppered with a minor fight and he just… leaves? It felt very unsatisfying to be honest.
It’s an easy read though, and cute, so if you can get over the above then it could be a cosy fun book for you.
Hmm. So I half enjoyed this book and half rolled my eyes at it. It read like someone who loves D&D trying their hand at romantic fanfiction for the first time.
The emotions of the characters were so extreme - they’d be crying one minute then SO angry the next. And everything was “fizzing like fireworks” (not a direct quote, but you get the gist), it was like no-one could regulate their emotions in the slightest.
I liked the characters Ren and Pansy, aside from this issue, they did seem like their own people and it didn’t take long to realise who’s chapter I was reading if I’d missed the name at the start. But I found myself going “oh my god, really??” at all the misunderstandings that got resolved in a few pages, and the tropes I used to only see in middle grade books of the noughties.
The villain of the story also seemed to give up far too quickly for my liking, his only motivation was scuppered with a minor fight and he just… leaves? It felt very unsatisfying to be honest.
It’s an easy read though, and cute, so if you can get over the above then it could be a cosy fun book for you.
December 3, 2025
Epitome of cozy fantasy!
The story line is light, but warm. You feel invested and the bickering between our two “friends” is endearing.
As life and adulting can get overwhelming, this is the perfect escape! Imagine finding yourself in hobbits (or goblins) home, with the sun shining in.. then add madness, mayhem and a love subplot to it. Et voila, the perfect cozy fantasy!
The main characters are definitely grumpy and sunshine coded. The plot wasn’t too high stakes either, it was just right.
I’ve read this when I needed something heartfelt and it gave me the mental vacation I needed!
Thank you to Jessie Sylva for this escape and perspective on acceptance and tolerance! Also, Orbit books and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to travel whilst staying at home.
The story line is light, but warm. You feel invested and the bickering between our two “friends” is endearing.
As life and adulting can get overwhelming, this is the perfect escape! Imagine finding yourself in hobbits (or goblins) home, with the sun shining in.. then add madness, mayhem and a love subplot to it. Et voila, the perfect cozy fantasy!
The main characters are definitely grumpy and sunshine coded. The plot wasn’t too high stakes either, it was just right.
I’ve read this when I needed something heartfelt and it gave me the mental vacation I needed!
Thank you to Jessie Sylva for this escape and perspective on acceptance and tolerance! Also, Orbit books and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to travel whilst staying at home.
January 13, 2026
3.75⭐️s rounded up. This was a cute cozy fantasy romcom between a halfling (think hobbit) and a goblin, whose cultures generally clash. And, as the title suggests, it’s loosely based off of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days in that they are attempting to oust the other from their abode.
Pansy, the halfling is 30, but it often felt like she was 18, like a coming-of-age tale as she moved out of her parents’ house for the first time.
Ren, the goblin, I believe is non-binary as they go by they/them pronouns throughout.
Ren meets Pansy when they begrudgingly save Pansy while she forages for mushrooms, as she almost brings home deadly mushrooms for the going away feast she wants to cook for her parents. When she moves into the cottage her grandmother left her, she finds the goblin she met earlier is already living there! Both believe it’s rightfully theirs, so they make a pact, whoever is driven from the cottage, the other will be the rightful owner.
It’s about two vastly different cultures coming together and overcoming their prejudices. We have popular tropes like enemies to lovers, grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, and one bed.
I really enjoyed the references to Tolkien’s world as well as the goblin market scene. I listened to the audiobook (thanks Libro FM for the ALC!) and the narrator did an excellent job! Loved the accent (Scottish) and cadence.
🌶️While the two do get intimate in one scene, it’s behind closed doors, so the spice level is lower for those interested.
I will say there were times I did find my focus waning, there were definitely small scenes I believe I missed, which doesn’t happen too often. Cozy fantasy tends to be low stakes, but even so, this is even lower stakes than a lot of cozy fantasies I’ve read. I would have preferred a little more plot development. I also felt like problems were resolved a little too easily. But overall, I really enjoyed this! I love all the cozy bits, like the food, foraging, market, pumpkin growing contest, the pets (a cat and a pig).
Pansy, the halfling is 30, but it often felt like she was 18, like a coming-of-age tale as she moved out of her parents’ house for the first time.
Ren, the goblin, I believe is non-binary as they go by they/them pronouns throughout.
Ren meets Pansy when they begrudgingly save Pansy while she forages for mushrooms, as she almost brings home deadly mushrooms for the going away feast she wants to cook for her parents. When she moves into the cottage her grandmother left her, she finds the goblin she met earlier is already living there! Both believe it’s rightfully theirs, so they make a pact, whoever is driven from the cottage, the other will be the rightful owner.
It’s about two vastly different cultures coming together and overcoming their prejudices. We have popular tropes like enemies to lovers, grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, and one bed.
I really enjoyed the references to Tolkien’s world as well as the goblin market scene. I listened to the audiobook (thanks Libro FM for the ALC!) and the narrator did an excellent job! Loved the accent (Scottish) and cadence.
🌶️While the two do get intimate in one scene, it’s behind closed doors, so the spice level is lower for those interested.
I will say there were times I did find my focus waning, there were definitely small scenes I believe I missed, which doesn’t happen too often. Cozy fantasy tends to be low stakes, but even so, this is even lower stakes than a lot of cozy fantasies I’ve read. I would have preferred a little more plot development. I also felt like problems were resolved a little too easily. But overall, I really enjoyed this! I love all the cozy bits, like the food, foraging, market, pumpkin growing contest, the pets (a cat and a pig).
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Hachette Audio & Orbit for the early copy in exchange for a review!
The audiobook narrator gets 10/10 all the stars and praise - Maggie Bain was incredible and I wish to find more audiobooks narrated by them immediately. Their narration was engaging and
I think this ultimately lands around a 3.5, I was really excited for this one after hearing Sarah Beth Durst talk about it at an author event and ran IMMEDITELY to NetGalley to request because it sounded cute and cozy. A cozy fantasy titled after a popular romcom? Perfect! Right up my alley but unfortunately the "romcom"-ness was missing. I had a really difficult time getthing through the beginning of the book with the physical copy *enter audiobook* which ended up allowing me to get through the book & enjoy it enough!
I wish we got MORE romcom vibes and I felt the halfling/goblin racial wars were a bit heavy for something that was marketed as cozy. I DO think that it shines light on an important theme and message considering *the horrors* of our world right now. It just was not what I was expecting while diving into a cozy book.
The audiobook narrator gets 10/10 all the stars and praise - Maggie Bain was incredible and I wish to find more audiobooks narrated by them immediately. Their narration was engaging and
I think this ultimately lands around a 3.5, I was really excited for this one after hearing Sarah Beth Durst talk about it at an author event and ran IMMEDITELY to NetGalley to request because it sounded cute and cozy. A cozy fantasy titled after a popular romcom? Perfect! Right up my alley but unfortunately the "romcom"-ness was missing. I had a really difficult time getthing through the beginning of the book with the physical copy *enter audiobook* which ended up allowing me to get through the book & enjoy it enough!
I wish we got MORE romcom vibes and I felt the halfling/goblin racial wars were a bit heavy for something that was marketed as cozy. I DO think that it shines light on an important theme and message considering *the horrors* of our world right now. It just was not what I was expecting while diving into a cozy book.
January 13, 2026
This was such a cozy romcom inspired story!
In this book we follow Pansy an halfling and Ren a goblin who end up having to share a cottage. The problem? These two hate each other on sight based on their race. However while trying to make each other leave, they get closer and closer. Will Pansy be able to lose her goblin in 10 days?
I really loved this story. It was cozy, heartwarming and fun. I really loved how both characters really worked hard to see each other’s prospective on things and not remain attached to cliches and stereotypes about one another. I was quite disappointed with Pansy’s community more than once, but I’m happy they got around to it at the end. I didn’t really care for the conflict to be honest, but it did add a bit of action. The setting was super immersive and the writing easy to read.
Definitely recommend this to the cozy fantasy readers!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
In this book we follow Pansy an halfling and Ren a goblin who end up having to share a cottage. The problem? These two hate each other on sight based on their race. However while trying to make each other leave, they get closer and closer. Will Pansy be able to lose her goblin in 10 days?
I really loved this story. It was cozy, heartwarming and fun. I really loved how both characters really worked hard to see each other’s prospective on things and not remain attached to cliches and stereotypes about one another. I was quite disappointed with Pansy’s community more than once, but I’m happy they got around to it at the end. I didn’t really care for the conflict to be honest, but it did add a bit of action. The setting was super immersive and the writing easy to read.
Definitely recommend this to the cozy fantasy readers!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 5, 2025
This is a quaint little queer rom-com featuring a fantasy world that feels loosely based off of the Lord of the Rings/Forgotten Realms (D&D) universes. There's a halfling village and a goblin village, and both sides feel the typical (of this setting) stereotypes against each other, and it's ultimately up to Pansy and Ren to (at first unwillingly) get past those and appreciate each other for who they are. It did exactly what I expected it too: be cute, cozy, and in a little corner of a familiar fantasy setting of mine. There's a wider world out there, and much like other cozy fantasies, I could definitely see the author writing more books in this universe to expand and focus on other characters.
A huge thank you to Orbit for sending me the arc in exchange for my honest opinions!
A huge thank you to Orbit for sending me the arc in exchange for my honest opinions!
January 4, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
A warm and wonderfully cosy fantasy that’s perfect for reading between heavier books or when you’re craving something light and comforting.
Much like its cover, How to Lose a Goblin in 10 Days is full of cosy vibes; halflings, goblins, wizards, and plenty of comforting cooking scenes that make the world feel snug. It’s an easy, gentle read that leans more on atmosphere and charm than high-stakes drama.
This is a great pick for fans of cosy fantasy, especially if you enjoyed Legends & Lattes or are a fan of The Lord of the Rings. The pacing is steady and pleasant, making it easy to stay engaged.
The only thing holding it back slightly for me was the lack of deeper conflict at times. I would’ve loved to see a bit more tension between certain characters to break up the constant cosiness, as it occasionally edged into cheesy territory.
Overall, a pleasant and comforting quick read that does exactly what it promises. Warm, cosy, and perfect for when you just want to relax and enjoy the magic.
A warm and wonderfully cosy fantasy that’s perfect for reading between heavier books or when you’re craving something light and comforting.
Much like its cover, How to Lose a Goblin in 10 Days is full of cosy vibes; halflings, goblins, wizards, and plenty of comforting cooking scenes that make the world feel snug. It’s an easy, gentle read that leans more on atmosphere and charm than high-stakes drama.
This is a great pick for fans of cosy fantasy, especially if you enjoyed Legends & Lattes or are a fan of The Lord of the Rings. The pacing is steady and pleasant, making it easy to stay engaged.
The only thing holding it back slightly for me was the lack of deeper conflict at times. I would’ve loved to see a bit more tension between certain characters to break up the constant cosiness, as it occasionally edged into cheesy territory.
Overall, a pleasant and comforting quick read that does exactly what it promises. Warm, cosy, and perfect for when you just want to relax and enjoy the magic.
January 17, 2026
This is a low stakes cozy fantasy book, if you are looking for this type of story with very minimal plot and just vibes, this is for you!
Personally, I found the plot a little lacking and I didn’t end up invested in the characters like I had hoped. It was missing a little something, a little bit more world building, the whimsical spark that would keep me engaged. I was spacing out a bit during the audiobook even though Maggie Bain does a wonderful job narrating, her accent is perfect for this story.
Kinda cutesy cottagecore with baking and making your own home, there is a cat named Mushroom and a pig named Pig, overall it was okay for me.
Thank you to Hachette Audio for the gifted audiobook copy.
Personally, I found the plot a little lacking and I didn’t end up invested in the characters like I had hoped. It was missing a little something, a little bit more world building, the whimsical spark that would keep me engaged. I was spacing out a bit during the audiobook even though Maggie Bain does a wonderful job narrating, her accent is perfect for this story.
Kinda cutesy cottagecore with baking and making your own home, there is a cat named Mushroom and a pig named Pig, overall it was okay for me.
Thank you to Hachette Audio for the gifted audiobook copy.
January 16, 2026
The cutesy cozy romantasy I didn’t know I needed! Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for gifting me this audioARC! I absolutely sped threw it! First some appreciation for the brilliant narration Maggie Bain blessed this book with!! It made it even more entertaining for me personally!
A cozy fantasy with all the tropes yet it still holds up, perfect pallete cleanser to refresh from some heavy high fantasy. Pansy and Ren are destined by their communities to hate each other, and what starts as a cheeky little guide on how to get rid of your roommate became a much more when we add romance to the mix!
A cozy fantasy with all the tropes yet it still holds up, perfect pallete cleanser to refresh from some heavy high fantasy. Pansy and Ren are destined by their communities to hate each other, and what starts as a cheeky little guide on how to get rid of your roommate became a much more when we add romance to the mix!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Hachette Audio for the ALC. This was very cozy and sweet!
Cottage core vibes with opposites attract and forced proximity. And the title is indeed a hint that it has a similar plot to how to lose a guy in ten days.
Queer relationship, non-binary representation, and they/them pronouns.
The narrator has a lovely voice and a lovely Scottish accent that I could listen to all day.
Cottage core vibes with opposites attract and forced proximity. And the title is indeed a hint that it has a similar plot to how to lose a guy in ten days.
Queer relationship, non-binary representation, and they/them pronouns.
The narrator has a lovely voice and a lovely Scottish accent that I could listen to all day.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
really enjoyed this one, don't normally read this kind of books but it was cute!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5⭐
RTC
RTC
October 24, 2025
This book was so incredibly cosy and feelgood - my heart could hardly take it! We follow Pansy, a halfling, and Ren, a goblin, as they try to decide who gets to live in Pansy's late grandmother's cottage. They strike a deal - whoever manages to drive the other out gets to stay. What follows is a delightful mix of good-natured pranks, gentle teasing, reluctant teamwork, and the slow unfurling of something much sweeter than they could have expected.
I loved how grounded both characters felt beneath all the charm and whimsy. Pansy's struggle to be accepted in her halfling village hit hard, and Ren's self-sacrificing nature (and determination to shoulder the weight of saving their entire people) made them so believable and easy to love. The relationship between the two characters grows with such gentle warmth and sincerity that it’s impossible not to root for them.
The antagonists were just the right mixture of infuriating yet amusing, adding just enough tension to keep the story interesting without ruining the cosy tone. And I reaaaally adored the cast of side characters - Blossom and Thorn, Mushroom the cat, and Pig the pig all added so much personality and heart to the story. A part of me is very tempted to name my next pet Mushroom - honestly, what a perfect name!
I also really appreciated the commentary on wizards recruiting halflings for grand adventures - only for those halflings to return home changed and ostracised, while the wizard remains celebrated as a hero. While stories like The Lord of the Rings do hint at this kind of fallout, this book gives a more focused, intimate look at how those left behind are judged, and how their families bear the consequences for the meddling of wizards.
This story is equal parts comfort and heart, and while there are tense and emotional moments, it somehow still manages to remain warm and cosy. If you're after a fantasy romance that feels like being curled up safe and content in your own little Hobbit hole, this will hit the spot!
I loved how grounded both characters felt beneath all the charm and whimsy. Pansy's struggle to be accepted in her halfling village hit hard, and Ren's self-sacrificing nature (and determination to shoulder the weight of saving their entire people) made them so believable and easy to love. The relationship between the two characters grows with such gentle warmth and sincerity that it’s impossible not to root for them.
The antagonists were just the right mixture of infuriating yet amusing, adding just enough tension to keep the story interesting without ruining the cosy tone. And I reaaaally adored the cast of side characters - Blossom and Thorn, Mushroom the cat, and Pig the pig all added so much personality and heart to the story. A part of me is very tempted to name my next pet Mushroom - honestly, what a perfect name!
I also really appreciated the commentary on wizards recruiting halflings for grand adventures - only for those halflings to return home changed and ostracised, while the wizard remains celebrated as a hero. While stories like The Lord of the Rings do hint at this kind of fallout, this book gives a more focused, intimate look at how those left behind are judged, and how their families bear the consequences for the meddling of wizards.
This story is equal parts comfort and heart, and while there are tense and emotional moments, it somehow still manages to remain warm and cosy. If you're after a fantasy romance that feels like being curled up safe and content in your own little Hobbit hole, this will hit the spot!
January 9, 2026
‘You’re acting like the next time I see you I’m going to be telling you all about my new goblin roommate.’
A relatively low-stakes cozy romantasy where a halfling and a goblin realize that they’re not so different after all, this book is a great fit for anyone looking for a cute read.
I loved the dynamic between Pansy and Ren, and found their banter to be entertaining - and the things each of them would do to annoy the other was just perfect! I loved the exploration into both of their family lives and the reactions of both to having a roommate of the other species. How Pansy’s family practically evicted her, while Ren’s just accepted their decision.
The main thing that kept this from being higher than three stars was that I didn’t like the sudden inclusion of an actual villain into the plot that had to be quickly resolved - and that doing this, somehow resolved the racial conflict between halflings and goblins. I thought the developing romance and the seeing of the other’s lives between Pansy and Ren - and their standing up for the other to their respective families - was a much more cohesive plot in showing that the hatred between these two species was orchestrated and that they had more similarities than differences.
Overall, I felt like this book would have been better had the last about 50 pages not tried to make this novel into something it is not, and instead kept the low stakes of the romance of the two leads being the catalyst to their people realizing that halflings and goblins aren’t so different after all.
This isn’t much related to anything, but I did find some of the editing to need to be a bit tightened up. For instance, in one scene Pansy says that the plants are weird, but when Ren calls her out on it , she tells them that she never said - or thought - such a thing. Despite having done so less than a page before, in the same conversation.
‘These aren’t ingredients. They’re just a bunch of weird plants!’ [Pansy]
‘How dreadful it must be to have nothing but ‘weird’, ‘nasty’ goblin ingredients at your disposal.’ [Ren]
‘Secondly, never once did I call your ingredients ‘weird’ or ‘nasty’ or any variation thereof - nor was I thinking it!’ [Pansy]
A huge thank you to the author, Netgalley, and Orbit for providing me this ARC.
A relatively low-stakes cozy romantasy where a halfling and a goblin realize that they’re not so different after all, this book is a great fit for anyone looking for a cute read.
I loved the dynamic between Pansy and Ren, and found their banter to be entertaining - and the things each of them would do to annoy the other was just perfect! I loved the exploration into both of their family lives and the reactions of both to having a roommate of the other species. How Pansy’s family practically evicted her, while Ren’s just accepted their decision.
The main thing that kept this from being higher than three stars was that I didn’t like the sudden inclusion of an actual villain into the plot that had to be quickly resolved - and that doing this, somehow resolved the racial conflict between halflings and goblins. I thought the developing romance and the seeing of the other’s lives between Pansy and Ren - and their standing up for the other to their respective families - was a much more cohesive plot in showing that the hatred between these two species was orchestrated and that they had more similarities than differences.
Overall, I felt like this book would have been better had the last about 50 pages not tried to make this novel into something it is not, and instead kept the low stakes of the romance of the two leads being the catalyst to their people realizing that halflings and goblins aren’t so different after all.
This isn’t much related to anything, but I did find some of the editing to need to be a bit tightened up. For instance, in one scene Pansy says that the plants are weird, but when Ren calls her out on it , she tells them that she never said - or thought - such a thing. Despite having done so less than a page before, in the same conversation.
‘These aren’t ingredients. They’re just a bunch of weird plants!’ [Pansy]
‘How dreadful it must be to have nothing but ‘weird’, ‘nasty’ goblin ingredients at your disposal.’ [Ren]
‘Secondly, never once did I call your ingredients ‘weird’ or ‘nasty’ or any variation thereof - nor was I thinking it!’ [Pansy]
A huge thank you to the author, Netgalley, and Orbit for providing me this ARC.
Read
October 12, 2025Oh, how much I wanted to love this cozy, cute, sweet story. (Just the title alone is so funny and clever!) Unfortunately, I don’t think I was the right reader for this book. Right away, I didn’t connect with the characters, and the romance felt stilted and flat. The messaging around overcoming our biases and prejudices was good, but it came across as a bit heavy handed at times. That said, I do think the right reader will absolutely love this one and its cozy, cottage-core, silly sweetness. DNF 35%, so I won’t rate it out of fairness for the author and book, and because I don’t want to dissuade my fellow cozy fantasy readers from picking up a book that they may love.
I was kindly gifted an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was kindly gifted an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
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