The Artist and the Orc: A Monster Fantasy Romance

Orc Sworn #10

by Finley Fenn

She spent a night with a monster. Then she saw his face…

In a world of orcs and men, artist Daisy Carlyle is about to lose her career, her relationship, and all her dreams. And when she seeks refuge in a deep cave, she just wants a moment alone to draw, to escape…

Until the cave collapses, and traps her inside.

With an orc.

There’s no way out, and now Daisy is stuck in a dark stone prison with a deadly, terrifying stranger. A stranger whose face she can’t see, and who only speaks in a deep, foreign growl.

But... she can understand the softness in his voice. The gentleness of his clawed hands as he comforts her. The strength of his lean body in the dark, tempting her into heated, dizzying dreams…

But then, morning comes. And in the light, Daisy finally sees the orc’s face.

He’s a wraith. A monster. A tall, gaunt, feral fiend, with shadows for eyes, and cryptic black marks scrawled all over his skin.

And even worse, he’s ruthless. Notorious. An outcast among even his own people. And now that he’s claimed Daisy in the dark, he has a cruel, devastating plan for her…

She’s going to be his. Forever.

_____________________

A dark, angsty fantasy romance with an intense language barrier and a powerful, possessive orc.

Comes after The Widow and the Orcs, but also reads as a standalone. Happily ever after guaranteed.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Monster Romance, Forced Proximity, Fantasy Romance, Monsters, Paranormal

506 pages, Hardcover

Published May 2, 2025

About the author

Finley Fenn is “the queen of dark orc romance” (Virgo Reader), and her ongoing Orc Sworn series has been praised as “sexy, romantic, angsty, and captivating … utter brilliance” (Romantically Inclined Reviews).

When she’s not obsessing over her stories, Finley loves reading, drooling over delicious orc artwork, and spending time with her incredible readers on Patreon, Discord, and Facebook. She lives in Canada with her beloved family, including her very own grumpy, gorgeous orc mate.

News, free stories, and artwork: www.finleyfenn.com
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Finley-Fenn/e/...
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/finleyfenn
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/finle...
Instagram: https://instagram.com/authorfinleyfenn
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/finleyfenn
Twitter: https://twitter.com/finleyfenn

THE ORC SWORN SERIES
1. The Lady and the Orc
1.5: Offered by the Orc: Free with signup at www.finleyfenn.com
2. The Heiress and the Orc
3. The Librarian and the Orc
4. The Duchess and the Orc
5. The Midwife and the Orc
6. The Maid and the Orcs
6.5. Tryggred by the Orc
7. The Governess and the Orc
7.5. Yuled by the Orcs
8. The Beauty and the Orcs
9. The Widow and the Orcs
10. The Artist and the Orc

THE ORC FORGED SERIES
1. The Sins of the Orc
2. The Fall of the Orc

THE MAGES SERIES
0.5: The Mage's Maid
1. The Mage's Match
1.5: The Mage's Groom: Free with signup at www.finleyfenn.com
2. The Mage's Master

Reviews

[Brittany (Brit.tea.reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't believe we are ten books in the Orc Sworn series, and each one has been a steamy, magical ride. Finley, you outdid yourself with these two!! 🥰

Daisy and Filak were everything!! Dare I say they are my new favorite? Yes! I fell hard for Filak, who was such a sweetheart to Daisy. They had me blushing, laughing, and swooning the whole time.


The Artist and the Orc was chefs kiss. It gave me all the freaking feels, and as always, the spice was 🔥 I can’t wait for the next one 😏

[•Mrs Pizza• · Rating 4 out of 5]

I guess it was time for me to return to Orc Mountain
This was my favorite of the books I’ve read in this series.
If you have never read an Orc romance maybe don’t start here, but damn these books are just top tier Orc spicy times.
I’m not going to call this series a guilty pleasure bc I don’t feel guilty about liking these books, it’s Orcs being Orcs and everything is COVERED in “seed”
But…I liked it? 🤷‍♀️

[Jody Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

The latest in our Orc Sworn series has artist Daisy - in a beat-for-beat recreation of the opening chapter of Kate Canterbary's In A Rush, down to small details - walking into the apartment she shares with her bf Lew to find him already occupied in their bed. As one does, she runs to a cave she found earlier for a good cry, and meets Filak. And by meets, I mean he triggers a rock fall so they are trapped together and what to do but bang it out to pass the time. So the next day she sees him in the light and he's even by "ew an Orc!" standards scary looking with his thin bald tattooed self. And yet! Daisy thinks to herself, you know, Absolutely Would again, and is like, sooooo, wanna come with? At this point I was like, yes this book feels modern, Daisy seems free of the usual Fenn FMC mindset of low self-esteem (usually for good reasons, human men are the WORST in her books), and she is refreshingly openminded about things, lfg, can't wait. Unfortunately this was the last point I liked or admired Daisy in this book.

Fenn writes in this circular, looping, repetative writing style that at its best drives home the theme and characters of her books. Here it just drives home the point that Daisy really almost refuses to grow and learn, and absolutely refuses to accept any agency or responsibility for what happens while she's at the mountain. Daisy is (unwittingly!) integrally important and complicit in a Bad Human Plan Lew is part of. Filak does the reasonable thing and brings her to the mountain and holds her while he tells the leaders about the Bad Human Plan. They determine that she (probably) didn't know about the Plan, but she has to stay at Orc Mountain. So here's the thing, Daisy makes friends in the mountain, but she keeps blaming Filak when her new friends also were just as cautious with her. "He took me as his prisoner, and locked me in a dungeon." I mean, he did think she was planning [redacted] so its seems like the least he could have done.

There is a language barrier (which gets handwaved away with 'Filak is studying at night and learning Common" which I guess is the new IPB language laser) but before it does she NEVER thinks to have any of the Orcs translate her concerns, most of which stem from her easily believing the absolute worse of him, and asking no questions. In fact, she's remarkably incurious, Mountain Leadership tells her they have thwarting the Plan in place, she washes her hands of everything and just vibes around the mountain making her little drawings and push/pulling with Filak.

I have the kindle note "ok calm down" so many times about Daisy in this book. She really pushes the whole Orc Bad/Me Blameless thing way too far, and takes no ownership of anything that happens. If you dicover your partner of four years was planning [redacted] and you had played a major role in making it possible, you might be more involved in trying to keep it from happening, but she's like, well, I guess Jule has this in hand, but let me harp more on how I, an adult, was suspected of knowing what I was doing and treated accordingly. If you have been involved repeatedly in VERY consent-forward and mutually desired D/s roleplay with a loving partner, maybe afterwards don't be like well the roleplay means that he thinks he owns me! And honestly, if three different healthcare workers try to talk to you about birth control options and you don't pay attention three different times, you can't complain that you were "trapped" by a pregancy, especially if you had already said you were all in and staying as mate at the point it occurs.

I get that Daisy had trust and self-esteem issues, but really, get in line behind all the other FMCs of Orc Mountain, because they seem to evolve past it. Filak was an interesting character, and it was great seeing another sub-culture of one of the clans, and the integration and lack thereof with the nor-ka-esh into the Orc community. I wonder why tattooing isn't more of a thing for the Ka-esh in general, given its religious import to the Nor-ka-esh. I did really like the idea of art as a calling for Daisy, and how it can fulfill a role on the mountain. Unfortunately I got a mental image of Daisy roaming the mountain making boardwalk-style caricatures of people emphasizing one thing (the smith has an AX, Kesst is PRETTY, etc), but I get it.

In the end the Bad Human Plan gets resolved in an easy and tidy way (would an elaborate and long-planned event be called off so neatly? Maybe! Do the details of who is doing it and why and how they get stopped ever make sense? Nope! Is it ever clear what Daisy brought to the table that made her so important? Ummmm). Anyhoo, plan thwarted, trust built, teamwork makes the dream work, another HEA on Orc Mountain.

I received this as an arc from Finley Fenn, but I am also in her Patreon, so got an extended copy there. This review is just of the arc version.

[Anne-Marie Romance Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't even count the ways in which I loved this book! A trip back to the Orc Sworn world is always the most fantastic of reads for me and this book is amazing! It has everything I love about Finely Fenn's world, found family, a strong FMC, a scheming but loving orc FMC, a rich world and culture, all the angst and tension, super hot spice, and so many appearances from old friends along the way!

A highlight for me was the central relationship between Daisy and Filak. Two people who have been misunderstood and overlooked by those around them finding comfort and home with each other is always one of my favourite stories. And found family is something Finley Fenn does so well, showing that family is the one you make for yourself with people who accept you as you are. It doesn't matter that others don't truly see or understand the two main characters, they see and understand each other. I cried so many times while reading from how touching their relationship was.

Filak was such a great leading orc for this story, he has the best kind of chaotic, orange cat energy. He does what he wants and he doesn't care what anyone else thinks, and I love him for it. Nothing and no one will keep him away from the woman he has his sights set on. Daisy is the only thing that matters to him and the only person he listens to. I am always weak for an MMC that is only soft for their person. And I especially want to say, on a personal note, that the representation of Daisy's anxiety is respectfully and well written. It's clear that the subject was handled with care and it was so relatable for me to read.

I also could not stop cackling at the drama and tension between Kesst and Filak. I could feel Kesst's frustration and Filak's lack of caring as if I were in the room with them. It was absolutely hilarious and some really great humour in an angsty, spicy book. Both Kesst and Rosa were by turns exasperated by Filak, and I loved every single scene and could not help but bark laugh several times.

And of course, it would not be a trip to Orc Mountain, and especially the Ka-esh, without a lot of spice! Daisy taunting Filak (in a loving way) leads to so many scorchingly hot scenes in the Dyflissa. These books always have me fanning myself while reading and this one was no exception.

If you love Orc Sworn you will be so happy to read another fantastic book in the series! And for a new reader you'll fall in love with the characters and the world and have so much more to explore! This book was just perfection!

[Danny Lea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked it. Filak has definitely moved into my top three orcs in this series. Though I thought he'd be a tad more feral. Not going to lie it took me a while to warm up to Daisy. She was a bit too spoiled for me. She should have been doing the groveling if I'm honest. Sorry 🙈. I am quite biased when it comes to this author's orc series because of the world she has created. There is a lot of smut so be prepared. A lot of bodily fluids being sprayed around 😂. IYKYK am I right? Anyways, I do have to say Finley's MF is my favorite with MM coming second. I'm actually not a fan of her MMF books unless it's Drafli in Maid because I love him. Other than that I feel like her MMF books after Maid the dynamics felt off. With most of the stories being centered around the orcs. I feel in those books the herione's character is more an incubator or third wheel. Please don't come at me. We all have our own likes and opinions. So I was a tiny bit disappointed to see Kalfr's book is MMF. Both his mates have left him, with his orc mate apparently hating Kalfr's woman. So I'm thinking it'll be heavily featured between the orcs and their relationship. I hope with Rurik, another side character here, that Julien will choose a woman over him and leave him in the dust. That's just my petty coming out full force. 😂 Rurik needs a swift kick in the ass, and I volunteer 🫡. Overall always a treat to read Finley's orc series, and I'm happy to have found this little world created by Finley.

Last thought.. I can't be the only one that wanted to smack Rosa 🙈😅. Also this can't really be read as a standalone. There are characters and dynamics you would be missing.

[Meghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just discovered my new favorite orc and his name is Filak!

Finley knocked it out of the park with this emotional roller coaster. Our two MCs have a sort of one-night stand, with the FMC leaving thinking she’ll never see him again. Then comes a misunderstanding because they have a massive language barrier, he makes several big mistakes in succession, and then he spends a lot of time making it up to her. In all sorts of ways…if you catch my drift.

Have you been looking for a good grovel? Look no further, because this is the grovel of my freaking dreams! Daisy does not give in to him quickly at all, and he has to work hard to win back her trust and heart. This was basically a masterclass on how to write a good grovel.

And the SPICE! Sit down with a towel and some water, away from others, because WOW. With some BDSM and powerful chemistry, these two had the pages sizzling! And the MMC has magic and can manipulate rock…which he uses very creatively in one scene that I was not expecting at all. It should not have turned me on, but it did and I’m not mad about it.

If you’re familiar with this series, you should know that these orcs always have a sexual past with another orc. So there was some initial OM drama between Filak and another orc, but it was minor and off page. It was actually the least amount of drama I have seen in this series so far. Instead, Filak just got jealous anytime Daisy even *looked* at another man. “Mine” was uttered a lot. What a possessive cutie-pie.

[Beth M. · Rating 2 out of 5]

The world's most passive woman ever, Daisy, kinda just lets things happen to her without saying much, which is likely how she ended up in an open relationship with a toxic, controlling man who stomps all over her (seemingly only) boundary.

So she gets mad about it, then takes off and has rebound sex with the first man she runs into, even though 1. she can't see him, 2. doesn't know his name, 3. can't speak his language and 4. isn't even the same species.

She was irritatingly passive and indecisive for the ENTIRE book.

And my god it dragged on forever! That was partially because it was so damned repetitive; the same phrases used, thinking the same thoughts over and over and over. It's a good thing I wasn't taking a shot every time "Sólin mín" showed up on a page, otherwise I would've died of alcohol poisoning 10 times over.

The most fun I had while reading this was looking up Icelandic phrases with Kindle's translator so I could understand what Filak was saying.

[TaylorDee · Rating 1 out of 5]

Hey, do you think she Learns, Sees, or Watches enough? Did you know she’s was an Artist?! Could you tell she can see art in literally everything?? Maybe it’s because I’m not an artist, but it seems a little excessive..
When she starts to enjoy some light BDSM, she calls it stepping into the darkness.. idk that didn’t sit wall with me
Listen, I gave it a good go. I made out all the way to 72% before finally giving up. I just realized I wasn’t enjoying my time enough. That I didn’t feel the need to read almost 200 more pages.

[Bex (Beckie Bookworm) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is a solid favourite of mine and this was another hefty one, so a big book. Despite the length I completed this so fast and I think this may be my favourite instalment yet. So this is part of a larger series of interconnected reads each focusing on different characters but there is an overarching plot so they do need to be read in order. Here we have Filak and Daisy’s story and it was a doozy of a read. I don’t know what the author puts in these pages but it’s like crack and I’m addicted.

Daisy is a talented artist but her self-belief is low, her partner Lew has taken advantage of her and her good nature, it’s all about him. They’re both currently staying a stone's throw away from Orc Mountain and Lew has a secret project that he won’t share the details of. An unpleasant incident sees Daisy needing space which she then finds by exploring some caves. That’s when she finds herself trapped in the dark with an Orc.

Filak was unlike previous Orcs in as much he was somewhat feral and also wasn’t a game player. I found him to be incredibly upfront and transparent about his wants which was primarily Daisy for his mate. There was also something incredibly vulnerable about him that melted my heart he has not had things easy and carries some deep baggage. He doesn’t trust easily and is guarded towards the other Orcs on the mountain, their judgements cutting him deep. His distinctive and different appearance has also contributed to his isolation and he just seemed so lonely but also resigned to it which I found sad.

Here we have a language barrier and all of the usual explicit debauchery that never fails to hit the spot. There's a massive misunderstanding that nearly breaks these two before they’re even up and running and the result is Filak having to prove his devotion and utter remorse. Past faces are present and there’s a strong sense of found family that is always so prominent with this series. I especially appreciated the strong emotional component that this had going on and the dynamic between Filak and Daisy just worked for me. Filak sees Daisy and in return, she recognises him right back even if it takes some time for her head to catch up with her heart.

I adored this so much and I will be eagerly looking forward with pure anticipation to my next fix this series is bloody addictive. It’s well written, filthy but emotive with some fantastic world-building each book expands the perimeters further and I don’t think I’ll ever get enough. One last thing before I sign off Rosa annoyed the hell out of me here with her judgmental thoughtless actions. Girl, you must do better! (that is all.)

So If you love dirty devoted orcs with their human counterparts, plenty of delicious spice combined with a fantastical world and a solid plot then this is the series for you. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of The Artist and the Orc.

[Petra Hart · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5? There’s an annoying, recurring plot point in this series where the (human) woman ignores her orc’s open devotion and discounts the relationship for waaaaaay too long. Way too long. For stupid reasons.

This is one of those. Filak is utterly swoony and he should have been more insulted by Daisy’s persistently obtuse response to his adoration. And I totally don’t buy Anna and John-Ka’s twist at the end.

[Gina Iracki · Rating 1 out of 5]

You know that scene in Zoolander where Mugatu and his assistant do that weird conversation with their eyes and Zoolander is just standing there watching them like, “What the heck is up with this nonsense?” That was basically the jist of the two main character’s interaction the entire book. But unlike Zoolander, I didn’t get a center for ants who can’t read good. So yea, not great.

Anyway, WAY too long/meandering, convoluted plot/characters, and a weak/TSTF FMC. You know the type - always running away and not using her brain because of FEELINGS. Sigh.

Also way too many sex scenes - I like sex in my books, but if it’s just there to be there, it gets boring. Or worse, cringe. And I cringed a lot in this book.

For the series as a whole, the story quality and plots have become stagnant. Nothin new, same old same old. So I’m done.

I do not recommend this book.

[Maplestory · Rating 2 out of 5]

Would have loved it if it were a novella that ended after 120 pages. Dragged too long, bad/not very compelling/believable overall plot, static main characters, 450 pages of waffling over the same problems. Unlikable main characters. One dimensional secondary characters. Good writing/imagery/prose but unappealing content.

[Hanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable read but a bit too long

[Jessica Jesinghaus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seeking wisdom, Embracing truth, & Loving unapologetically

Daisy’s story is, on the surface, simply a tale of discovery. But if one sweeps away the dust and the rubble and digs a little deeper we see it’s really a tale of trust, exploration, love, and realizing her own self-worth. And it’s a story about teaching her orc, Filak, to do the same.

As an artist, Daisy can easily see beyond the surface of her subject to their true beauty, so it’s only fitting for her to be paired with the ‘ghoulish, nightmare’ orc Filak. Even amongst the other orcs he’s considered an outcast, and viewed with skepticism and distrust. For as accepting as the orcs have been throughout this series, it was heartbreaking to see them so unwelcoming to one of their own. Especially as we learn more about Filak’s Nor-Ka-esh clan & his own turbulent history.

The love story which develops between Daisy and Filak was so rewarding! They both harbor some deep insecurities, but with a little effort (the language barrier!!) they’re able to learn and trust and grow into something bigger and stronger than the sum of their parts. They are definitely stronger together, a force to be reckoned with. The way they learned from each other, nurtured and fed one another (spiritually, metaphorically, and literally) was epic.

There’s also a new threat to Orc Mountain and all their hard-won progress, which all our favorite orcs and women must navigate and thwart. Finley also hints that two long-suffering orcs (Kalfr & Julian) might be moving toward paths leading to their own HEA.

I literally cannot get enough of this series! It’s spicy, so spicy, but beneath that is an ooey-gooey melted chocolate heart and a message of acceptance for all. I will be waiting eagerly for the next installment.

[Morgan Le Fay ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easily my favorite in the series. From the characters to the creative lore building, I just got sucked right into the tale. I also went into the book without using the translation features in my ebook, as the leads have a language barrier, and I had no issues following the story as intended.

I think between descriptive text and clever story playing, Fenn got us to where we could meet and develop opinions on Filak even without speaking his tongue. Fenn also does often use some repetitive text during moments of inner emotional thoughts and moments, which in some of their other books I find it goes on a tad too long, but it worked here very well in how it was used to teach the reader phrases and terms too.


I do think by this book we’ve had the same repetitive ex-significant other one time too many through the multiple volumes who upon selfish reasons still pops back up again later, but these books are also very much written to appease niches so I can’t complain too much.


Overall, Filak and Daisy are just such a fun couple that I loved seeing explore their artistry selves together.

[Hilda · Rating 5 out of 5]

He was — hers. Her devil. Her mate.

Daisy and Filak were everything. I loved these two together so much. This story was especially good with the language barrier. Filak didn’t learn coming tongue because he hated humans (maybe) but he learned for her and taught her. And was so patient. The language barrier was hot because it showed how much he cared. He saw her, like really saw her from day one and that was also extremely satisfying. He gave her safety, comfort, and so much confidence.

This was one of the longer books and the political intrigue with the evil warmongering humans that want to hurt the orcs does not cease. So of course poor Daisy was caught in the middle and had to defend herself. Which is also very interesting. This series could go on forever since so many evil men want to kill the orcs and “save” the “dumb” women that stay with the orcs. But all want the treasures they think the orcs hoard. All the jewels. Typical.

Anyways, I really enjoyed these two. Filak was extra yummy. His dark tortured soul was delicious. And the way he would get jealous every time Daisy drew another orc was endearing.

[THE PETITE LIBR☆RY · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars because the book is 300 pages too long

[HighLady-Fireheart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in with another way to get whisked off to Orc Mountain!

[Sarah Patterson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Only 23% in and well if no one else will say it, I will. If Rosa were to never grace another page in any of your other books, it would literally be the bestest kind of gift from heaven above.

She is the embodiment of the worst parts of some intelligent women...a whole lot of book knowledge with absolutely noooo wisdom, and it never fails that incessant talking is their primary past time.

It's clear at this point she's a major character in this volume, which I guess makes sense because it's rooted in the ka-esh clan, BUT it's absolutely hurting my heart to have to skim sooooo much of the book because I absolutely hate having to read anything involving her and most certainly anything she has to say.

Daisy was a working partner AND lover of the man conspiring to kill all of orc mountain yet Filak is the worst of the worst. Rosa was wrong about Ulfarr, and I'm just going to have to wait for her to admit that she was absolutely rash in her decision to be so antagonizing toward Filak.

I usually devour your books in no time but with Rosa taking such a major role in this and me absolutely despising her as a character, I'll only be able to read in small chunks. My brain can only tolerate so much of her in one sitting.

[Christine Woo · Rating 5 out of 5]

WARNING: There most definitely will be spoilers. 😉

OMG. *Jaw dropped*

For those of you who need a visual, no worries, I gotcha...



Soooooo....here's the thing....this was a TOTAL 10 outta 10 will read again. FOR SURE. 100% will read again.



I don't even think I can put into words how much I loved this book, but I most certainly will try! 😍

So usually, I am not a monster gurlie. or am I....? I mean I've read them before, but not excessively. I don't think it was for any particular reason, but I just find it mostly hard to wrap my mind around a non-human with a human. However, if I were to count on one hand how many I've actually liked...it would probably be around 3. And vampires/werewolves don't count. I'm talking straight up centaurs, trolls, (not fae), and/or anything with a tentacle.

Thus, I was very nervous to read this bad boy for this specific reason. However, I AM SO GLAD I DID!

The two characters were soooo cute together!!!! NOT to mention that Filak was *chef's kiss* such a hawtie for an Orc. He is definitely going on the Book Boyfriend list.



So, lets get into the review here.

Let's just give a very short summary. Basically Daisy is not having it with her current bf because he's a giant a-hole and not in the fun way like with the Broken Bonds series by J. Bree. So, she finds herself trapped in a cave with Filak who is a very handsome Orc (at least in my mind he is). Yes, guys, there are tons of misunderstandings between the two of them, but eventually they are able to look past that and get together.

Honestly, the main thing I loved is just that Filak (despite being a bit roguish) is very sweet, protective, and 🔥. I loved the tension between the two of them, the language barrier they slowly broke through, and the amount of care they built for each other. Emphasis on the "built."

Their love was tested, stretched, and reformed by the structures of their respective societies and their misunderstandings about each other's species.

Like in this scene:

It felt both commanding and approving, almost as if Daisy had pleased him, somehow. But how? What was she doing now that she hadn't done before, and...

Oh. She was standing still. Not moving. Not...falling.

Was he just trying to help her?

However, this author does a FANTASTIC job of making this fun, hilarious, and mostly realistic. Or at least natural. It was a slight slow burn, but since they were fated mates, that didn't last long. However, it lasted long enough.

For example in this scene:

"There were several sharp bangs and shouts, and then a harsh, angry voice that sounded far too much like Filak’s…

“Yes, of course it’s Filak,” Kesst told Daisy, when she caught him walking past. “But don’t worry, he won’t get in. We’ve put an entire band of guards on the door, and Jule says he can declare war as much as he wants, we’re not budging."




"“Filak?” demanded a sharp, vaguely familiar voice. “How the hell did you get in here again?”

Filak’s eyes narrowed dangerously toward Kesst, but he didn’t move, and his hand had even found Daisy’s neck again, stroking gently against it.

The movements purposeful, possessive, blatantly defiant, and again there was that appalling overpowering urge to clutch back toward him, to yank him close, to forget everything.

“Daisy er mín,” Filak told Kesst, his lip curling. “Mín.”

Daisy is mine, it meant. Mine.""



"“What — the — fuck,” Kesst snarled, dragging both his hands through his rumpled hair. “You — enraging — irreclaimable — incorrigible — barnacle. How the hell did you get in here again?!”

Filak only gazed back, his sharp teeth now slightly bared, because of course he wouldn’t have understood..."

See how there was some humor sprinkled in?

It was so well written and I loved that the humor wasn't so in your face. It was tasteful. It also made each character's voice distinct. I LOVED THAT!



Honestly, this book was just a 10/10 for me. I will definitely be reading this book again and soon! I loved the sweetness between Daisy and Filak. They were real with each other (despite my few issues with Daisy) I thought they were pretty relatable overall.

Yes, Filak was a bit pushy, and Daisy wasn't fair sometimes, but it made sense that they would be this way and I think that the author did a good job of explaining everything well. It was VERY nuanced, but EXTREMELY thorough.

I didn't even need to read the other 9 books to really dig into this one.

So, will I recommend this book to everyone I know? ABSOLUTELY.

If you're not into this kind of book, that's totally okay. Its not for everyone, but for many this will be a keeper. Read it, I dare you!


RECOMMENDED SONGS:

🎵 Calm Down - Selena Gomez
🎵 Am I Okay - Megan Moroney
🎵 The Painter - Cody Johnson
🎵 Compass - Sail North

FAVORITE LINES:

💖 "At that moment, Efterar himself strode by, not even sparing them a glance. But Filak’s sudden glare toward him looked deeply malevolent, his lip curling, and he even growled, low and menacing in his throat. Almost as if he really was — jealous. Jealous of Efterar, just because Daisy had drawn him."

💖 " You must learn, and know, for yourself.
And with a deep, shaky breath, Daisy clutched for Filak’s face, drew him close, and kissed him."


💖 "And though there were no words in it, Daisy could almost feel the truth hovering behind it. She’d missed him, today. He’d missed her, too."


💖"And when Filak eased up behind her in the looking-glass, and slid his long clawed fingers over that vow on her belly, Daisy could thoroughly appreciate the sight of that, too. His body so tall and stark and pale, all cold black and white, while hers was shorter and softer, rich with colour and warmth. And the longer she blinked between them, the more dangerous Filak looked, like a proud, vengeful, deathly fallen prince, ready to maim and crush and destroy. While she looked like…
An artist. A sun. A light to his darkness."

[Shayla mead · Rating 2 out of 5]

I honestly don’t know what I’m doing with my life anymore. It’s all fun and games until there’s a literal Orc orgy and then I’m sitting here at 10:30 at night, reflecting on my life choices while screaming “IN FRONT IF THE SALAD BAR?!”

Literally every decision I’ve made has led me to this point.

And honestly, that one guy in the corner should not have been able to watch. Like, I don’t know you sir? Why are you even here? Let me and my 30-40 closest friends and family do things that will make eye contact hard tomorrow.

I’ve never been particularly religious, but I may need to find Jesus after this.

[Becca Saylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely Marvelous!

… I know I say this with every new Finley Fenn book, but THIS IS THE BEST ONE! Without a doubt, I was laughing and crying and raging and… well, you know haha the spice do be SPICY, if you get what I meeean. But that’s something that Finley Fenn weaves into the story so very well, it doesn’t feel like plotless smut. Each and every scene in this book drives the emotions forward.

I’m gonna try to describe what it’s like to read these books, but it’s hard because some things are experiences that are simply unparalleled. Finley Fenn’s style is utterly unique and I don’t really know why? Is it the tense? The perspective? The usage of em dashes?? I don’t know, and every time I read, I’m so deep in the scenes that I’m not even processing that they are just black marks on a white screen.

Every book in this series, Finley Fenn sets a main character - in this case, Daisy - and perfectly frames who they are within just a couple pages. Dreams, fears, aches, and what the character *needs* but maybe doesn’t realise it yet. Then from the moment they encounter their orc - in this case, the intriguing Filak - it is a whirlwind of emotion! I can hardly describe it!! Reading these books, it’s like slipping out of my body! The emotion, the rush of thought, the descriptions!! Everything is so PRESENT. It’s really like seeing through someone else’s eyes.

I don’t know how Finley Fenn is able to weave actual magic into her works, but these books have endless readability - dare I say, I enjoy the second read MORE than the first?? Because knowing what the orc was thinking (he always explains by the end) makes the Unreliable Narrator of the main character so much more! Because you understand both perspectives!

***Behold, there will be DESCRIPTIONS of EVENTS in the beginning of the book that perhaps qualify as SPOOOILERZ so maybe don’t read past this point if you don’t want to see those***

Daisy is caught in a highly toxic relationship with a “scientist” that is using her art to propel his career forward. When she comes home to this lowlife breaking a rule by having an “encounter” with another woman in their bed, she leaves for some solitude. Hiking into the hills, she locates a strange cave which she draws. Lo and behold, an orc - Filak - finds her. Using MAGIC (this is the first Finley Fenn book wherein it truly feels like the orc has very active magic) he collapses the cave entrance and traps her with him for the night. Daisy, perhaps as revenge and perhaps in a bid to find the part of her that she has lost while trapped with her partner, welcomes the orc to have his way with her.

There are tattoos, art, lots of Rosa-ka rebuking rudeness, and bunches of beloved characters - so much that Orc Mountain really feels like a living place that I could get to if I could just walk far enough.

Truly - each and every twist and turn, all the vows said, the Icelandic (or the language that the orcs speak Aelkalesh, I think??) being the bridge that was built brick by brick? Ugh I can’t describe enough how much I loved this book. Filak is very much my second favourite orc now (nobody will be loved more than you, Kesst) and that really surprised me based on his brusque appearances in other books.

If you haven’t read this series?? What the HECK are you waiting for?? Let yourself be enchanted by the magnificently talented Finley Fenn!!

[Sav🩵 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say hands down this is my favorite book from Finley yet. I loved Filaks character the most and I’ve read every book in this series, even side stories!! While most of the orcs in this series tend to be enemies of the women first I really enjoyed Filak just being a love interest immediately. He was so sweet, encouraging and caring with Daisy especially when it came to her being an artist or making money of her own😭 I felt like it was a change of pace and made me really like his character instead of my typical love/hate relationship with the male leads. He wasn’t over bearing or demanding, and Daisy wasn’t meek which fit him perfectly.

Daisy also has to be in my top 3 for female leads in this series. I loved how she had her own talent and story before even moving to the mountain or meeting Filak. Usually the women are given a job once they arrive but I loved that she was an artist and spent a lot of time detailing/drawing the mountain. The descriptions really helped visualize the mountain more and even though Rosa kinda annoyed me with her judgements of Filak despite not getting to know him🤨 Daisy really meshed the clan together without really going above and beyond. I mean at the 70% mark I was still happy with both characters and their story despite knowing the third act fight was going to come up.

Overall I felt like this couple was a great match from the start, even with the hiccups and conflicts. There was groveling, angst, love and friendship. These books just keep getting better and better honestly! Thank you Finley for the ARC💚 im always so appreciative of that and can’t wait for Julian’s story😅 and Kalfrs😭

[Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daisy and Filak may be my favorite couple.

Daisy is such a strong woman in her own right who just wants to draw the world as she sees it. She gets caught up with a horrific man and that's when Filak enters and takes her breath away (figuratively and literally).

The way that Filak clocks her habits and interests and moves heaven and earth to give it to her made me kick my feet. There is also a layer of Filak not knowing common tongue and Daisy not speaking Aelakesh, that adds a layer to the story of how love will always find a way at the end of the day. There is mystery and intrugue throughout the story because Filak keeps alot buried deep but our girl pulls it out of him throughout. I really enjoyed the updates on all the characters that we know and love from Orc Mountain sprinkled throughout the book, and the building of an already great series.

Thank you Finley Fenn for another visit to Orc Mountain, I thoroughly enjoyed my visit ❤️

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s very rare when a series continues this long that introducing new lore so far into a series doesn’t feel forced but somehow, in this series, as new things unfold even 10 books in, it somehow all makes sense and feels so natural.

I was honestly baffled when I heard that Filak’s story was going to be next but realizing now that all I knew of Filak had come from the points of view of people who don’t know or trust him, of course I was.

But was this the perfect place for his story? Yes, for so many reasons. I do hope we get more stories about the Ka-Esh because their stories are fascinating and I can’t wait to read more of them.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Finley Fenn for the review copy and this is my honest review.

The heroine is an insecure artist and I have never related so hard to a FMC in my life. The hero is up there as one of my favourite Orc Sworn heroes, he's an earth bender and his love language is gift giving and acts of service, say less.

The orcs are not big talkers on sharing information and feelings in general but this book takes the cake with a language barrier. The hero doesn't speak the common tongue but they do manage to transcend that barrier through ploughing and art.

He inks her body, she inks him back, she draws him nude, and it's all beautiful. Everything is art, including the many vivid orc prick descriptions which I loved.

You can expect the usual Orc Sworn goodness, slow burn in terms of romance but buckets of orc seed quick and early, heightened political stakes and angst.

[Grace Leonora Griffiths · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phew what a story. Absolutely loved it. I adore Finley Fenn's orc series. There is so much detail written about each clan and their histories. This was no exception. Introducing a new clan and having it's own history.
This was just amazing, a couple that find art everywhere and use it to communicate when there was a complete language barrier between them. To be each other's muse 🥰
I'm going to be dealing with some book blues after this one.

[Joanna Banana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dude…this is, hang on-the 10th book in the Orc Sworn and Finley STILL comes with the spice and PLOT! I truly adored Daisy and well, come on…if you’ve made it this far I mean, yeah, it’s Filak!! We love him and all his feralness. (Not sure if that a word) She was my gateway into orc romance and I love how she still gives me what I want.

You can read it without having read the others but if you have read the others, you get some visits from past characters. And it’s laugh out loud humor 😂

[Wanda B · Rating 5 out of 5]

10 Stars if I could, FF has outdone herself with these two main characters. I had all of the feelings and savored this book. The closer to completion the more I dreaded this story coming to an end. I know that I will reread this again and again. I cannot wait to own this in hard copy.

[Edith Russo · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,50⭐