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Indecent Monsters #3
Secretary to the Orc
He'll look, but won't cross the line—until he discovers his lovely assistant's sexy secret.
Rosette Kristoff is impeccable at her job, but there’s just one she has a massive crush on her orc boss, Mr. Vincent Roth. Though he appreciates what she has on offer, he never touches, much to her indignation.
That is, until Vincent discovers Rosette’s after-hours job working at a gentlemen’s sex club as “Velvet.” Then all his pent-up hunger for his beautiful assistant erupts, and he finally crosses the line.
But a relationship between them is a recipe for Human Resources disaster, and Vincent knows it can’t be more than a tryst at a club. And the last thing he needs is to form a mate bond.
Once he gets a taste of Velvet, though, can Vincent really stay away from Rosette?
This is a short and steamy monster romance novella about a very unconventional relationship between an orc boss and his assistant. Please read the list of content warnings in the sample.
Rosette Kristoff is impeccable at her job, but there’s just one she has a massive crush on her orc boss, Mr. Vincent Roth. Though he appreciates what she has on offer, he never touches, much to her indignation.
That is, until Vincent discovers Rosette’s after-hours job working at a gentlemen’s sex club as “Velvet.” Then all his pent-up hunger for his beautiful assistant erupts, and he finally crosses the line.
But a relationship between them is a recipe for Human Resources disaster, and Vincent knows it can’t be more than a tryst at a club. And the last thing he needs is to form a mate bond.
Once he gets a taste of Velvet, though, can Vincent really stay away from Rosette?
This is a short and steamy monster romance novella about a very unconventional relationship between an orc boss and his assistant. Please read the list of content warnings in the sample.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 29, 2025
67 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
About the author
Lyonne Riley
36 books957 followersLyonne Riley writes super steamy monster romance, fantasy romance, and sci-fi romance. She lives in the middle of nowhere with her spouse and two dogs, writing spicy fairy tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
December 30, 2025
I liked Rosette and her love of sex work and her general competence. She was bold and confident. Vincent was not my fave MMC and gave me the ick with his degradation dirty talk without any affection afterwards. He did improve and grew as a character though.
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: sex work, jealousy, power imbalance (boss and subordinate)
Spice: 4/5
Triggers: sex work, jealousy, power imbalance (boss and subordinate)
December 25, 2025
Rosette is the executive assistant to orc Vincent, a high powered, wealthy businessman. She also has a second job three nights per week at a very hands-on adult club. Despite her best efforts to entice her strictly business boss to sample her personal wares, he’s always been aboveboard and professional with her. In a moment of sheer desperation she reveals quite a lot of herself to him, and while his demeanor barely changes, he does begin to gaze longingly at her.
Vincent has been trying very hard not to objectify his enticing assistant since she applied for the position more than two years ago. When she flashes him in all her glory and he subsequently discovers the nature of her after hours job, he finds it increasingly difficult to maintain a clear line of resistance toward her, especially when the mating imperative makes itself known to Vincent.
This was a s3x positive, kink-forward steamy novella. I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I’m sharing my honest review.
Vincent has been trying very hard not to objectify his enticing assistant since she applied for the position more than two years ago. When she flashes him in all her glory and he subsequently discovers the nature of her after hours job, he finds it increasingly difficult to maintain a clear line of resistance toward her, especially when the mating imperative makes itself known to Vincent.
This was a s3x positive, kink-forward steamy novella. I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I’m sharing my honest review.
February 18, 2026
whoa baby. incredibly hot
December 30, 2025
Thank you so much Lyonne Riley for sending me an ARC copy for review! This was so good! I loved Rosette and Vincent so much! Rosette is Vincent’s assistant and while there seems to be a bit of tension the line is never crossed. But what if one day it is? I loved Rosette so much! She is a strong woman and I love that she goes after what she wants! She wants her sexy Orc boss? She is gonna dress sexy and torture him. She wants to be seen and touched? She is gonna get a job at a sex club. Does she need the money? Nope but it makes her feel good! I love that! Vincent is also amazing! I love when he realizes how much Rosette means to him and all he wants to do is just take care of her!
Once again Lyonne Riley knocks it out of the park! So good! I highly recommend!
Once again Lyonne Riley knocks it out of the park! So good! I highly recommend!
January 11, 2026
4.25 ⭐️ 4 🌶️
January 4, 2026
Fable Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
Goodreads Rating: 4/5 ⭐
Genre: Monster Romance
Tropes:
🖤boss x secretary
🖤fated mates
🖤obsessed mmc
🖤human fmc
Format: ebook
Pages: 178
Spice: 3 🌶️
S/S: Indecent Monsters
Check trigger warnings for any book
Mr. Roth and Rosette. This was good. Lyonne just pumps out her books like giving candy to a child on Halloween. Rated 4.5 stars.
Lillian - @lillianbookreviews on instagram
Goodreads Rating: 4/5 ⭐
Genre: Monster Romance
Tropes:
🖤boss x secretary
🖤fated mates
🖤obsessed mmc
🖤human fmc
Format: ebook
Pages: 178
Spice: 3 🌶️
S/S: Indecent Monsters
Check trigger warnings for any book
Mr. Roth and Rosette. This was good. Lyonne just pumps out her books like giving candy to a child on Halloween. Rated 4.5 stars.
Lillian - @lillianbookreviews on instagram
January 11, 2026
4.25 ⭐️ 4 🌶
📖Pages: 178
🗓Release: 12.29.25
MCs: rosette "velvet" kristoff ♡ vincent roth
💭 i really really enjoyed this read!! sweet & spicy but also something about this felt so relatable!! maybe its the part where ms. kristoff was crushing hard on her boss but ofc have to maintain a lvl of professionalism. maybe its their pining for one another. or maybe its the simple knowing that most men dont do so well verbalizing their feelings or picking up on cues while the other is left confused or overthinking what it all means🤭 mr. roth IS an orc of few words afterall!! either way, i thought it was cute to watch them grow as a couple the more they learn to communicate & compromise to make them work, like any real relationships do. & that office scene?!?oh hellooo mr. roth😋
ᴍටɴsᴛᴇʀ ටғғıᴄᴇ ʀටᴍ | ටʀᴄ ʙටss X ʜᴜᴍᴀɴ ᴘᴀ | ғᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴍᴀᴛᴇs | sᴇᴄʀᴇᴛᴀʀʏ ʙʏ ᴅᴀʏ, sʜᴍᴇx ᴡටʀᴋᴇʀ ʙʏ ᴡᴇᴇᴋᴇɴᴅ ɴıɢʜᴛs | ᴘටssᴇssıᴠᴇ | ʟıɢʜᴛ ᴅᴇɢʀᴀᴅᴀᴛıටɴ | ᴠටʏᴇᴜʀısᴍ/xʜıʙıᴛıටɴısᴍ | ᴡᴀᴛᴇʀsᴘටʀᴛs
✨book 3 of the Indecent Monsters series but can be read as a standalone
✨thankU Lyonne Riley for this entertaining eARC & am voluntarily leaving my honest thoughts♥️
📖Pages: 178
🗓Release: 12.29.25
MCs: rosette "velvet" kristoff ♡ vincent roth
💭 i really really enjoyed this read!! sweet & spicy but also something about this felt so relatable!! maybe its the part where ms. kristoff was crushing hard on her boss but ofc have to maintain a lvl of professionalism. maybe its their pining for one another. or maybe its the simple knowing that most men dont do so well verbalizing their feelings or picking up on cues while the other is left confused or overthinking what it all means🤭 mr. roth IS an orc of few words afterall!! either way, i thought it was cute to watch them grow as a couple the more they learn to communicate & compromise to make them work, like any real relationships do. & that office scene?!?oh hellooo mr. roth😋
ᴍටɴsᴛᴇʀ ටғғıᴄᴇ ʀටᴍ | ටʀᴄ ʙටss X ʜᴜᴍᴀɴ ᴘᴀ | ғᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴍᴀᴛᴇs | sᴇᴄʀᴇᴛᴀʀʏ ʙʏ ᴅᴀʏ, sʜᴍᴇx ᴡටʀᴋᴇʀ ʙʏ ᴡᴇᴇᴋᴇɴᴅ ɴıɢʜᴛs | ᴘටssᴇssıᴠᴇ | ʟıɢʜᴛ ᴅᴇɢʀᴀᴅᴀᴛıටɴ | ᴠටʏᴇᴜʀısᴍ/xʜıʙıᴛıටɴısᴍ | ᴡᴀᴛᴇʀsᴘටʀᴛs
✨book 3 of the Indecent Monsters series but can be read as a standalone
✨thankU Lyonne Riley for this entertaining eARC & am voluntarily leaving my honest thoughts♥️
January 1, 2026
Best Workplace Romance
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.🫑
I swear Lyonne keeps getting better and better! She is literally one of my favorite paranormal and monster romance author! I can’t get enough of her books. This is definitely my favorite out of the Indecent Monsters series!
Mr. Vincent Roth is incredibly attractive. His authority and confidence are truly captivating. I’m drawn to a big, strong, confident, and authoritative man who knows how to talk dirty!😭
Rosette is the ideal match for Vincent; she truly understands him. She’s the perfect assistant! She knows who she is, what she wants, and what she wants is Mr. Roth. All he needs to do is cross that line… The spice in this novella is absolutely delicious, and I absolutely loved the steamy interactions.
Plus, their chemistry is just amazing! The way they long for each other, the desire in their eyes, and the lingering glances without a touch really heightens the anticipation of them finally being together.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.🫑
I swear Lyonne keeps getting better and better! She is literally one of my favorite paranormal and monster romance author! I can’t get enough of her books. This is definitely my favorite out of the Indecent Monsters series!
Mr. Vincent Roth is incredibly attractive. His authority and confidence are truly captivating. I’m drawn to a big, strong, confident, and authoritative man who knows how to talk dirty!😭
Rosette is the ideal match for Vincent; she truly understands him. She’s the perfect assistant! She knows who she is, what she wants, and what she wants is Mr. Roth. All he needs to do is cross that line… The spice in this novella is absolutely delicious, and I absolutely loved the steamy interactions.
Plus, their chemistry is just amazing! The way they long for each other, the desire in their eyes, and the lingering glances without a touch really heightens the anticipation of them finally being together.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**Thank you to the Author for the ARC; all opinions are my own.**
4 ⭐️
4.5 🌶
This was spicyyyy!! 🥵 It was also a really quick read (I finished it in less than 2 hours)! If you're looking for your next smutty monster fix, look no further 👀😎
Rosette knows what she wants but she's gotten tired of her boss not acting after 2 years of working together and teasing him. When her plan to rile him up even more seemingly doesn't work, she is surprised when he appears at her secret night job and things crank up to ten from there.
This was hot and heavy from the get-go, and though it was basically jusy good ole monster smut, I enjoyed the bits of plot we were fed, too!
☆size differenc
☆stuffing
☆boss x assistant
☆secret job
☆sex worker
☆super spicy
☆mates
☆orc x human
4 ⭐️
4.5 🌶
This was spicyyyy!! 🥵 It was also a really quick read (I finished it in less than 2 hours)! If you're looking for your next smutty monster fix, look no further 👀😎
Rosette knows what she wants but she's gotten tired of her boss not acting after 2 years of working together and teasing him. When her plan to rile him up even more seemingly doesn't work, she is surprised when he appears at her secret night job and things crank up to ten from there.
This was hot and heavy from the get-go, and though it was basically jusy good ole monster smut, I enjoyed the bits of plot we were fed, too!
☆size differenc
☆stuffing
☆boss x assistant
☆secret job
☆sex worker
☆super spicy
☆mates
☆orc x human
December 31, 2025
Advanced copy provided by author
What a fun book! I became instantly hooked by the cover then the synopsis really locked me in and it did not disappoint. Perfectly smutty with lots of heart and a bit of angst blended with mutual pining and a bit of miscommunication but nothing overwhelming, just enough to keep the plot moving past the spice.
Both characters are wonderful and I truly had a blast reading this book!
What a fun book! I became instantly hooked by the cover then the synopsis really locked me in and it did not disappoint. Perfectly smutty with lots of heart and a bit of angst blended with mutual pining and a bit of miscommunication but nothing overwhelming, just enough to keep the plot moving past the spice.
Both characters are wonderful and I truly had a blast reading this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Vincent and Rosette was so hot.
the whole novella needs to come with a complimentary fire extinguisher to cool yourself and your kindle!
it was forbidden, oh so hot and absolutely delicious.
you need to meet Vincent!
the whole novella needs to come with a complimentary fire extinguisher to cool yourself and your kindle!
it was forbidden, oh so hot and absolutely delicious.
you need to meet Vincent!
December 30, 2025
So Good
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It's mostly spice with a little bit of plot and baby that's all I needed today. Sometimes I just want all spice with a hint of plots and this gave me everything that I needed.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It's mostly spice with a little bit of plot and baby that's all I needed today. Sometimes I just want all spice with a hint of plots and this gave me everything that I needed.
January 6, 2026
Pure Joy!
This is one of my favorite authors ever. Love the double life of our FMC. And I've always wanted an Orc billionaire or m own. This was an amazing book. Co workers to lovers.
This is one of my favorite authors ever. Love the double life of our FMC. And I've always wanted an Orc billionaire or m own. This was an amazing book. Co workers to lovers.
February 4, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
Kindle Unlimited
Kindle Unlimited
March 13, 2026
Ok Daddy Orcbucks!
March 1, 2026
Truly mindless
December 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This is my fist ever Orc read and let me tell you I think I’m hooked!
I was hooked from the beginning, if I could have read this in one sitting I would have! Every time I stopped reading it, I itched to get back into it.
Mr. Roth is broody, silent, possessive and absolutely filthy but also he is so sweet especially and only for Rosette!
Rosette, I loved her. She was independent, knew what she wanted, and was so up front and honest and I loved that about her.
I loved the story, I love me a boss/assistant, and i really enjoyed that she was doing everything to get his attention but he was so stoic.
Ahh I loved the ending so much! Of course I wish there was more but overall it was a great book!
This is my fist ever Orc read and let me tell you I think I’m hooked!
I was hooked from the beginning, if I could have read this in one sitting I would have! Every time I stopped reading it, I itched to get back into it.
Mr. Roth is broody, silent, possessive and absolutely filthy but also he is so sweet especially and only for Rosette!
Rosette, I loved her. She was independent, knew what she wanted, and was so up front and honest and I loved that about her.
I loved the story, I love me a boss/assistant, and i really enjoyed that she was doing everything to get his attention but he was so stoic.
Ahh I loved the ending so much! Of course I wish there was more but overall it was a great book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh. My. God.
This is my new favorite Lyonne book!
Vincent and Rosette are so hot 🔥
These two have been hot for each other since they first met. But Vincent refuses to cross the line with his secretary, despite all her not so subtle attempts to seduce him.
To relieve all the tension from her day job, Rosette has a side job as a performer. One night Vincent is a patron, leading to some very sexy exhibition.
I am obsessed. I loved every moment of this book. The size difference? *swoon* I just ate this up.
ARC
This is my new favorite Lyonne book!
Vincent and Rosette are so hot 🔥
These two have been hot for each other since they first met. But Vincent refuses to cross the line with his secretary, despite all her not so subtle attempts to seduce him.
To relieve all the tension from her day job, Rosette has a side job as a performer. One night Vincent is a patron, leading to some very sexy exhibition.
I am obsessed. I loved every moment of this book. The size difference? *swoon* I just ate this up.
ARC
Review of advance copy received from Author
My favorite Lyonne Riley remains the first by her I read, The Orc's Rage. There we had a leader who took his job (marauding and pillaging) seriously, selected a human to satisfy some urges, and definitely thought he would get it out of his system and definitely not activate the mate bond. This book asks the question, what if the same instincts, but it's way in the future and Orc is Businessman and human is his assistant, and he thinks he's satisfying an urge and definitely won't activate a mate bond. You think over the many hundreds of years we took to get from A to B orcs would have learned, but no.
Listen. I don't love a workplace romance with a power imbalance. I don't love it when a character sexualizes the workplace (which they both do, him with his "ogle but don't act" attitude, and her with her "keep throwing it out there" game). I'm just going to lay that aside and focus on the identity issues and enjoy my evolutionary theory.
So turn out Rosette also works as a Professional at a Special Club under the name Velvet. He just happens to be there and once he sees her all restraints are off. This club apparently has a back room for Activities, but also they just do it at the bar area a lot? BUT also as Vincent and Velvet have interesting conversations that they don't at work in their Rosette and Mr. Roth personas. These identity issues aren't explored a ton, but was the most interesting part of the story to me.
So anyway, of COURSE it's all bets are off at the office once their personas start to merge. It's (sorry, trying to put it aside) super inappropriate. His poor receptionist having to listen to the desk scraping along the floor. OK, back to book. So he's marital congressing her all over the place at work, and keeping it to that, and she's getting her feelings hurt? Like "This should all be my ideal situation - getting [marital congressed] like I've always wanted by my boss during the day, working my job at night. So why does Mr. Roth treating this so casually...kind of hurt?"
Just...Sigh. The whole reason she works her second job is not the money, it's scratching an itch "to be used, to be passed around and groped and fondled." Which ok. But then when that happens with her and her boss JUST AS SHE PLANNED she's like, where are my hugs? What did she think was going to happen when her goal at her job (which she is excellent at, and pays well) was to bang the boss? At one point she's like, yeah he has me as his "personal [Professional]" why would he be interested in getting to know me, which fair but also yeah, girl, that's maybe the point?
Any way, yada yada he realizes why he's been obsessed with her, it's mate bond time. Their Mr. Roth/Vincent and Rosette/Velvet personas all get along. Surprise! he has an issue with her working her second job. They figure out a work around. So both her careers are affected (she gets transferred to a different boss at the office job) and his not at all. Here's what I'm pretty sure is a Rule. If you have a relationship with a Professional, especially one you met THROUGH HER JOB, you don't get to be jealous to the point of making her quit that job later.
Three stars because I kept getting pulled out by the workplace issues and also maybe let's all figure out our endgame goals before blowing up our main jobs, because Rosette didn't seem to have thought through what she wanted as an option, sexy office times/relationship/forever mate. But it did what it set out to do? IDK. I think it's obvious I shouldn't read boss/subordinate workplace, I just keep thinking of the paperwork and conflict resolution sessions to follow.
Listen. I don't love a workplace romance with a power imbalance. I don't love it when a character sexualizes the workplace (which they both do, him with his "ogle but don't act" attitude, and her with her "keep throwing it out there" game). I'm just going to lay that aside and focus on the identity issues and enjoy my evolutionary theory.
So turn out Rosette also works as a Professional at a Special Club under the name Velvet. He just happens to be there and once he sees her all restraints are off. This club apparently has a back room for Activities, but also they just do it at the bar area a lot? BUT also as Vincent and Velvet have interesting conversations that they don't at work in their Rosette and Mr. Roth personas. These identity issues aren't explored a ton, but was the most interesting part of the story to me.
So anyway, of COURSE it's all bets are off at the office once their personas start to merge. It's (sorry, trying to put it aside) super inappropriate. His poor receptionist having to listen to the desk scraping along the floor. OK, back to book. So he's marital congressing her all over the place at work, and keeping it to that, and she's getting her feelings hurt? Like "This should all be my ideal situation - getting [marital congressed] like I've always wanted by my boss during the day, working my job at night. So why does Mr. Roth treating this so casually...kind of hurt?"
Just...Sigh. The whole reason she works her second job is not the money, it's scratching an itch "to be used, to be passed around and groped and fondled." Which ok. But then when that happens with her and her boss JUST AS SHE PLANNED she's like, where are my hugs? What did she think was going to happen when her goal at her job (which she is excellent at, and pays well) was to bang the boss? At one point she's like, yeah he has me as his "personal [Professional]" why would he be interested in getting to know me, which fair but also yeah, girl, that's maybe the point?
Any way, yada yada he realizes why he's been obsessed with her, it's mate bond time. Their Mr. Roth/Vincent and Rosette/Velvet personas all get along. Surprise! he has an issue with her working her second job. They figure out a work around. So both her careers are affected (she gets transferred to a different boss at the office job) and his not at all. Here's what I'm pretty sure is a Rule. If you have a relationship with a Professional, especially one you met THROUGH HER JOB, you don't get to be jealous to the point of making her quit that job later.
Three stars because I kept getting pulled out by the workplace issues and also maybe let's all figure out our endgame goals before blowing up our main jobs, because Rosette didn't seem to have thought through what she wanted as an option, sexy office times/relationship/forever mate. But it did what it set out to do? IDK. I think it's obvious I shouldn't read boss/subordinate workplace, I just keep thinking of the paperwork and conflict resolution sessions to follow.
January 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5
Thank you so much to Lyonne Riley for an e-ARC for this book! I am on Lyonne’s permanent ARC team - so if you want the DL on all her releases I’m your girl.
Secretary to the Orc is the next and final book in Lyonne’s Indecent Monsters series.
Rosette Kristoff is a dutiful and ambitious employee - she can anticipate what her Orc boss Mr Vincent Roth wants before he even has to utter a word. They have become almost symbiotic in their working relationship. Their mutual attraction is undeniable - Vincent pines for her, but refuses to touch her and risk not only their professional relationship but his own sanity as risking catching feelings is even more dangerous.
Rosette is desperate. She has yearned for her boss since day one and has done everything she can think of to attract his notice, bar presenting herself naked on his desk. She is left with little choice but to seek alternative ways to fulfil the urges invoked by her stoic boss. By day, she is sleek, professional Rosette Kristoff; by night she is Velvet - the seductive and sinful gentleman’s club escort.
When Vincent walks into the club with a potential client and lays eyes on his secretary - his desires push him to cross a line that can never be uncrossed. Temporary and casual are words within his vocabularly but when it comes to Rosette, things are never clean cut. Particularly when he realises his feelings are more than mere attraction - a mate bond was the last thing he planned on.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. This book features: . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🖤 Orc x Human
💜 Boss x Secretary
💚 Mates
🖤 Sex Worker
💜 Size Difference
💚 Praise & Degredation
🖤 Voyeurism
💜 Public Sex Acts
💚 Mutual Pining
🖤 Flashing
💜 Grumpy x Sunshine
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Potential Triggers . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🖤 Power Imbalance
Another day, another Lyonne Riley novel I have DEVOURED. I don’t think there will ever be a day when I am not thoroughly obsessed with Lyonne’s writing and storytelling - she can write monster romance and spice in a way that is incomparable to anything else I have read.
Rosette is the kind of woman I yearn to be. She is confident - oozing sex appeal and sensuality, while also being the sweetest bundle of sunshine. She is dedicated to her job (and her boss 😏) and she is knows what she wants - and is determined to get it by any means possible.
Vincent - how can I even begin to explain how delicious this orc is? Somehow, Lyonne has made a male named Vincent sexy as sin. He is professional, straight-laced and determined not to cross the line with his employee. But he is a man - so when she begins teasing him, he is helpless. He is the most perfect grumpy mmc - possessive, quiet but unendingly observant. Without spoiling anything, he is also flawed, there are several instances where his possessiveness becomes almost overbearing - however Rosette knows just how to deal with him.
I loved the interactions between Vincent and Rosette - the spice and angst was absolutely perfect! I almost melted/died when he gifted her with THAT particular gift. The chemistry between them is perfect and the tension only adds to their interactions. The steamy scenes were perfection - I could have read a whole other book-worth of their interactions.
If you are looking for an angsty, steamy monster romance, full of possessive desire and spice, then this is perfect for you! It is a quick read, with a modern setting and a pairing which oozes sensuality and devotion. I am honestly so disappointed that Lyonne isn’t continuing this series, as I love the slightly taboo monster romances she has released - they are the perfect short reads to scratch the monster romance itch.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Playlist. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🖤 Heaven by Julia Micheals
💜 Dress by Taylor Swift
💚 Makes Me Want You by Sombr
🖤 Addicted by Haley Jones
💜 Dirty by Chloe Adams
💚 Cherry by Lana Del Rey
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Fave Quotes. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🖤 “Once he’s finished eye-fucking me, he smirks, bringing his tusk up his cheek. They’re menacing, those sharp, white tusks, even more so when he smiles like that. I despise that smug look, when he sees through me.”
💜” He objectifies me with his gaze while refusing to ever cross the line.”
💚“Tell me what you want, sir, and it’s all yours.”
🖤 “The need became so overwhelming when she said goodbye that I realized… I needed to move on with my life. I needed to get some kind of relief with a warm body and try to banish this obsession from my mind, because it will never go anywhere as long as Ms. Kristoff works for me.”
💜” But I keep still, keep from showing any of this on my face, how deeply she affects me. How much I simply want to grab her head and push it down, or throw her onto the table and wrap her legs around my hips as I drive into her.”
💚” Oh, fuck. I’m toast.”
🖤 “I’m like a star, expanding and then bursting,”
💜 “No,” he growls low in his throat. “Stay where I put you.”
💚”I shake my head, unable to put it into words. During the day, he’s my boss. But here, at night, he’s someone else. Someone who wants to consume me from the inside out.”
💜” It’s time, I believe, to stop fighting my desire. I have no need to mate, but I do have an aching for Ms. Kristoff. And I think she feels that ache for me, too.”
💚“Ms. Kristoff.” He glares down at me with those yellow eyes, pupils big and black. “You were… a very bad girl today.”
🖤 “I think she might just be made for me.”
💜 “Then why do you do it?” “Because I enjoy it!” I want to stomp my foot. “Because I like being wanted by people. Being seen.” “But I see you all day,” he says, leaning closer. “And you’re wanted. All day. By me.”
💚 “You can’t make stuff up like that,” I say immediately. “That’s just to throw them off the scent, right?” “No.” Mr. Roth’s gaze is solid, unwavering. “Really?” I choke. “With me? But…” “You’re my mate.” His tone couldn’t be more certain. “Mine.”
🖤 “I am asking her, quite plainly, to be with me. To be mine forever, wholly and completely. Which, after how I’ve behaved, is a big request.”
💜”“The mate bond only happens once in a lifetime, with one person,” I say patiently. “It’s destiny.”
💚”This is good. This is the balm my soul needed. Is this what it’s like, to have a mate? To hold them close and feel as if all is right in the world? I could get used to it.”
🖤 “You’re beautiful,” he says into my ear. “I could just eat you.” I hope he does.”
💜“I’ve never loved anyone,” I finally admit. “But… I am open to learning.”
Thank you so much to Lyonne Riley for an e-ARC for this book! I am on Lyonne’s permanent ARC team - so if you want the DL on all her releases I’m your girl.
Secretary to the Orc is the next and final book in Lyonne’s Indecent Monsters series.
Rosette Kristoff is a dutiful and ambitious employee - she can anticipate what her Orc boss Mr Vincent Roth wants before he even has to utter a word. They have become almost symbiotic in their working relationship. Their mutual attraction is undeniable - Vincent pines for her, but refuses to touch her and risk not only their professional relationship but his own sanity as risking catching feelings is even more dangerous.
Rosette is desperate. She has yearned for her boss since day one and has done everything she can think of to attract his notice, bar presenting herself naked on his desk. She is left with little choice but to seek alternative ways to fulfil the urges invoked by her stoic boss. By day, she is sleek, professional Rosette Kristoff; by night she is Velvet - the seductive and sinful gentleman’s club escort.
When Vincent walks into the club with a potential client and lays eyes on his secretary - his desires push him to cross a line that can never be uncrossed. Temporary and casual are words within his vocabularly but when it comes to Rosette, things are never clean cut. Particularly when he realises his feelings are more than mere attraction - a mate bond was the last thing he planned on.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. This book features: . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🖤 Orc x Human
💜 Boss x Secretary
💚 Mates
🖤 Sex Worker
💜 Size Difference
💚 Praise & Degredation
🖤 Voyeurism
💜 Public Sex Acts
💚 Mutual Pining
🖤 Flashing
💜 Grumpy x Sunshine
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Potential Triggers . ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🖤 Power Imbalance
Another day, another Lyonne Riley novel I have DEVOURED. I don’t think there will ever be a day when I am not thoroughly obsessed with Lyonne’s writing and storytelling - she can write monster romance and spice in a way that is incomparable to anything else I have read.
Rosette is the kind of woman I yearn to be. She is confident - oozing sex appeal and sensuality, while also being the sweetest bundle of sunshine. She is dedicated to her job (and her boss 😏) and she is knows what she wants - and is determined to get it by any means possible.
Vincent - how can I even begin to explain how delicious this orc is? Somehow, Lyonne has made a male named Vincent sexy as sin. He is professional, straight-laced and determined not to cross the line with his employee. But he is a man - so when she begins teasing him, he is helpless. He is the most perfect grumpy mmc - possessive, quiet but unendingly observant. Without spoiling anything, he is also flawed, there are several instances where his possessiveness becomes almost overbearing - however Rosette knows just how to deal with him.
I loved the interactions between Vincent and Rosette - the spice and angst was absolutely perfect! I almost melted/died when he gifted her with THAT particular gift. The chemistry between them is perfect and the tension only adds to their interactions. The steamy scenes were perfection - I could have read a whole other book-worth of their interactions.
If you are looking for an angsty, steamy monster romance, full of possessive desire and spice, then this is perfect for you! It is a quick read, with a modern setting and a pairing which oozes sensuality and devotion. I am honestly so disappointed that Lyonne isn’t continuing this series, as I love the slightly taboo monster romances she has released - they are the perfect short reads to scratch the monster romance itch.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Playlist. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🖤 Heaven by Julia Micheals
💜 Dress by Taylor Swift
💚 Makes Me Want You by Sombr
🖤 Addicted by Haley Jones
💜 Dirty by Chloe Adams
💚 Cherry by Lana Del Rey
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁. Fave Quotes. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
🖤 “Once he’s finished eye-fucking me, he smirks, bringing his tusk up his cheek. They’re menacing, those sharp, white tusks, even more so when he smiles like that. I despise that smug look, when he sees through me.”
💜” He objectifies me with his gaze while refusing to ever cross the line.”
💚“Tell me what you want, sir, and it’s all yours.”
🖤 “The need became so overwhelming when she said goodbye that I realized… I needed to move on with my life. I needed to get some kind of relief with a warm body and try to banish this obsession from my mind, because it will never go anywhere as long as Ms. Kristoff works for me.”
💜” But I keep still, keep from showing any of this on my face, how deeply she affects me. How much I simply want to grab her head and push it down, or throw her onto the table and wrap her legs around my hips as I drive into her.”
💚” Oh, fuck. I’m toast.”
🖤 “I’m like a star, expanding and then bursting,”
💜 “No,” he growls low in his throat. “Stay where I put you.”
💚”I shake my head, unable to put it into words. During the day, he’s my boss. But here, at night, he’s someone else. Someone who wants to consume me from the inside out.”
💜” It’s time, I believe, to stop fighting my desire. I have no need to mate, but I do have an aching for Ms. Kristoff. And I think she feels that ache for me, too.”
💚“Ms. Kristoff.” He glares down at me with those yellow eyes, pupils big and black. “You were… a very bad girl today.”
🖤 “I think she might just be made for me.”
💜 “Then why do you do it?” “Because I enjoy it!” I want to stomp my foot. “Because I like being wanted by people. Being seen.” “But I see you all day,” he says, leaning closer. “And you’re wanted. All day. By me.”
💚 “You can’t make stuff up like that,” I say immediately. “That’s just to throw them off the scent, right?” “No.” Mr. Roth’s gaze is solid, unwavering. “Really?” I choke. “With me? But…” “You’re my mate.” His tone couldn’t be more certain. “Mine.”
🖤 “I am asking her, quite plainly, to be with me. To be mine forever, wholly and completely. Which, after how I’ve behaved, is a big request.”
💜”“The mate bond only happens once in a lifetime, with one person,” I say patiently. “It’s destiny.”
💚”This is good. This is the balm my soul needed. Is this what it’s like, to have a mate? To hold them close and feel as if all is right in the world? I could get used to it.”
🖤 “You’re beautiful,” he says into my ear. “I could just eat you.” I hope he does.”
💜“I’ve never loved anyone,” I finally admit. “But… I am open to learning.”
February 24, 2026
READ IN DECEMBER
First of all, I want to mention that this was an ARC, and I apologize for posting my review so late. One thing I’ve learned is that it’s probably not the best idea to request ARCs right around the end of the year.
This novella has some good elements, while others left me unsure about whether they truly reached their full potential. One thing that definitely stands out is the very mature theme and taboo premise. The forbidden boss/assistant dynamic isn’t new, but adding the monster romance element, with an orc MMC, gives it a unique twist. The setup itself is intriguing, and the story doesn’t shy away from exploring uncomfortable or complicated themes, which is something I usually appreciate in this author’s work.
However, Vincent didn’t make a great first impression. His closed-off mindset, emotional distance, and objectifying behavior made it difficult to connect with him, and for much of the story he comes across as cold and self-focused. His degradation dirty talk without any affection or aftercare gave me the ick, and even though we see some growth toward the end, it happens quite late, making it hard to fully warm up to him. I also wished we had seen him show more awareness of his actions, especially since we know his thoughts and mindset.
Rosette, on the other hand, gave me the impression of a more developed character, even though she also has some flaws. I admired her confidence, boldness, and ownership of her double life, especially her comfort with her sex work while having a well-paid day job. I liked the idea that she wanted to explore her body through a job like a gentlemen’s sex club. At the same time, I struggled to fully understand her: if she’s doing a job like that, why does she want a relationship with someone like Vincent? And why does she get upset when she ultimately gets what she wants? Her characterization sometimes felt uneven: she knows what she wants in theory, but in practice she often lets Vincent take control, and her choices in the relationship made me question her emotional agency. By the end, it felt less like a romance and more like she was comfortable with the sex and the money, so she simply went along with it.
As for the romance itself, this is where the book felt weakest to me. The chemistry is very physical, and while the spice is undeniably well written and intense for such a short format, the emotional connection between the characters didn’t fully convince me. At times, the relationship felt more driven by desire than genuine emotional development.
That said, the writing is engaging and easy to read, and the author clearly knows how to create tension and atmosphere even within a novella length. I do think that a longer format would have helped, allowing more space to develop both characters’ arcs (especially Vincent’s, whose storyline needs more development) and make the romance feel more balanced and satisfying
Overall, this wasn’t a bad read: it had an interesting premise, strong heat, and some compelling ideas, but it didn’t fully click for me on an emotional level.
Thanks to the author for the arc and, again, I'm deeply sorry for the late review.
First of all, I want to mention that this was an ARC, and I apologize for posting my review so late. One thing I’ve learned is that it’s probably not the best idea to request ARCs right around the end of the year.
This novella has some good elements, while others left me unsure about whether they truly reached their full potential. One thing that definitely stands out is the very mature theme and taboo premise. The forbidden boss/assistant dynamic isn’t new, but adding the monster romance element, with an orc MMC, gives it a unique twist. The setup itself is intriguing, and the story doesn’t shy away from exploring uncomfortable or complicated themes, which is something I usually appreciate in this author’s work.
However, Vincent didn’t make a great first impression. His closed-off mindset, emotional distance, and objectifying behavior made it difficult to connect with him, and for much of the story he comes across as cold and self-focused. His degradation dirty talk without any affection or aftercare gave me the ick, and even though we see some growth toward the end, it happens quite late, making it hard to fully warm up to him. I also wished we had seen him show more awareness of his actions, especially since we know his thoughts and mindset.
Rosette, on the other hand, gave me the impression of a more developed character, even though she also has some flaws. I admired her confidence, boldness, and ownership of her double life, especially her comfort with her sex work while having a well-paid day job. I liked the idea that she wanted to explore her body through a job like a gentlemen’s sex club. At the same time, I struggled to fully understand her: if she’s doing a job like that, why does she want a relationship with someone like Vincent? And why does she get upset when she ultimately gets what she wants? Her characterization sometimes felt uneven: she knows what she wants in theory, but in practice she often lets Vincent take control, and her choices in the relationship made me question her emotional agency. By the end, it felt less like a romance and more like she was comfortable with the sex and the money, so she simply went along with it.
As for the romance itself, this is where the book felt weakest to me. The chemistry is very physical, and while the spice is undeniably well written and intense for such a short format, the emotional connection between the characters didn’t fully convince me. At times, the relationship felt more driven by desire than genuine emotional development.
That said, the writing is engaging and easy to read, and the author clearly knows how to create tension and atmosphere even within a novella length. I do think that a longer format would have helped, allowing more space to develop both characters’ arcs (especially Vincent’s, whose storyline needs more development) and make the romance feel more balanced and satisfying
Overall, this wasn’t a bad read: it had an interesting premise, strong heat, and some compelling ideas, but it didn’t fully click for me on an emotional level.
Thanks to the author for the arc and, again, I'm deeply sorry for the late review.
January 4, 2026
Two stars is being generous. I like Rosette. Vincent on the other hand? Fuck that emotionless prick.
He was so fucking bland and cold I don’t know what the fuck rosette sees other than a brick wall. I’m on chapter 12(14 total) and I’m bored and unimpressed, and dropping. I don’t even know why we got his POV, he is thick headed and dumb as a rock. (He says Its a mystery why they didn’t get together sooner like dude hasn’t been actively trying not to touch her for two years)He doesn’t have any feelings towards her-just sexual attraction and he refuses to cross that line..until one day he does, of course. So then they start fucking at the day job, then he’s got the nerve to also come into her night job and basically claim her, when before that he hasn’t even kissed her or seen her fully naked and it’s like dude we’re not together you’ve made that clear so fuck off. Rosette(bless her fr) kicks him out of the club and puts up boundaries. Thank you sis. Vincent realizes he has to get her back because he has bonded to her and now she’s his (still bland and boring as fuck. No actual love or kindness has been expressed. No cherishing of any kind.) and his driver suggests getting her flowers (Thanks George) so he does.. and also gives her a dress to be his date publicly at a gala. They walk out together, pictures snapping at them. This is when she realizes he’s claiming her publicly , this relationship (if u can even call it that.) publicly. This is the first time rosette has even gotten a whiff of him wanting to be serious and he dumps it on her like THAT u slimy piece of shit. THEN he announces around a table full of people that they are fated mates. And this is also the FIRST time she’s hearing anything about this. Like this is how you break the news to me? She pulls him to the side asks him what’s going on, this is part of the scene—
“Don’t I get a say in this?” she asks, pulling her hand away from mine.
I furrow my brow, confused by her question.
“The mate bond only happens once in a lifetime, with one person,” I say patiently. “It’s destiny.”
She keeps her clutch close to her, like I might try to take it. “You didn’t answer my question. I’m a human, not an orc. You decided I’m your mate, whatever that means—”
“Whatever that means? It is a serious thing, mating. I don’t have a choice in it.”
She screws up her lips. “But I have a choice, don’t I?”
It hits me like a punch to the gut, what she’s saying. She’s suggesting that she won’t accept it. That she wants to deny the truth about us.”
“I straighten, adjusting my red tie. Losing my temper now won’t do me any favors. She needs something else, something more… tender, I believe. I need to convince her that she wants to be my mate.
“Ms. Kristoff.” I take a step toward her, then go down onto one knee. Her eyes get big as I gently scoop up her hand in mine. “No. Rosette.”
I see the shiver as it rolls up her body.
“Please, give me tonight. Let me show you, tonight, what being my mate could be like.”
Likeeeeeee he’s just manipulating her into what she wants to hear so he can keep her, no real kindness is coming from him, at least not how the author writes it.
He was so fucking bland and cold I don’t know what the fuck rosette sees other than a brick wall. I’m on chapter 12(14 total) and I’m bored and unimpressed, and dropping. I don’t even know why we got his POV, he is thick headed and dumb as a rock. (He says Its a mystery why they didn’t get together sooner like dude hasn’t been actively trying not to touch her for two years)He doesn’t have any feelings towards her-just sexual attraction and he refuses to cross that line..until one day he does, of course. So then they start fucking at the day job, then he’s got the nerve to also come into her night job and basically claim her, when before that he hasn’t even kissed her or seen her fully naked and it’s like dude we’re not together you’ve made that clear so fuck off. Rosette(bless her fr) kicks him out of the club and puts up boundaries. Thank you sis. Vincent realizes he has to get her back because he has bonded to her and now she’s his (still bland and boring as fuck. No actual love or kindness has been expressed. No cherishing of any kind.) and his driver suggests getting her flowers (Thanks George) so he does.. and also gives her a dress to be his date publicly at a gala. They walk out together, pictures snapping at them. This is when she realizes he’s claiming her publicly , this relationship (if u can even call it that.) publicly. This is the first time rosette has even gotten a whiff of him wanting to be serious and he dumps it on her like THAT u slimy piece of shit. THEN he announces around a table full of people that they are fated mates. And this is also the FIRST time she’s hearing anything about this. Like this is how you break the news to me? She pulls him to the side asks him what’s going on, this is part of the scene—
“Don’t I get a say in this?” she asks, pulling her hand away from mine.
I furrow my brow, confused by her question.
“The mate bond only happens once in a lifetime, with one person,” I say patiently. “It’s destiny.”
She keeps her clutch close to her, like I might try to take it. “You didn’t answer my question. I’m a human, not an orc. You decided I’m your mate, whatever that means—”
“Whatever that means? It is a serious thing, mating. I don’t have a choice in it.”
She screws up her lips. “But I have a choice, don’t I?”
It hits me like a punch to the gut, what she’s saying. She’s suggesting that she won’t accept it. That she wants to deny the truth about us.”
“I straighten, adjusting my red tie. Losing my temper now won’t do me any favors. She needs something else, something more… tender, I believe. I need to convince her that she wants to be my mate.
“Ms. Kristoff.” I take a step toward her, then go down onto one knee. Her eyes get big as I gently scoop up her hand in mine. “No. Rosette.”
I see the shiver as it rolls up her body.
“Please, give me tonight. Let me show you, tonight, what being my mate could be like.”
Likeeeeeee he’s just manipulating her into what she wants to hear so he can keep her, no real kindness is coming from him, at least not how the author writes it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐
I have never once thought to myself "ya know that MMC is pretty selfish" and then have them not only acknowledge that they're being selfish, but then actively work to right that imbalance they've created, until today. Mr. Vincent Roth, my man. You led me to the edge of not liking you and then brought me right back to the comfort of your embrace, just like Rosette. I didn't expect it, I really didn't but damn it sir, you did it.
By day Rosette works as an assistant for an Orc of few words. Over the 2 years that she's been his assistant she hasn't even gotten a thank you for the morning coffees she orders everyday or a curt nod for performing her duties a way no one else can. While he may not interact through conversation very often she does not fail to notice the way his eyes track her body as it moves around him. When teasing him with her outfits and the way she chooses to bend over offers not even a single passing touch from her boss in 2 whole years Rosette thinks her chances of ever crossing a line with him are nonexistent. That is until her Orc boss shows up at her night job, the one where she works is way less clothing and with way more skin to skin contact. Velvet is great at what she does and those services come with a price, but is she willing to let her boss see what she does outside of their perfectly curated schedule? Before she can slip away Vincent spots her and requests her company for the evening. Does it still count as an HR violation if they aren't at work and they aren't supposed to know each other in this new situation? After a very unexcepted interaction Vincent abruptly leaves the club and Rosette doesn't know what to expect with her day job going forward. A single interaction inside of the club could not have prepared Rosette, or Vincent, for what would happen when an Orc finally gives into his natural urges and a human is more than willing to accept. "What I thought was a tryst with my assistant has become much, much more than that." 🤭🤭🤭
I have never once thought to myself "ya know that MMC is pretty selfish" and then have them not only acknowledge that they're being selfish, but then actively work to right that imbalance they've created, until today. Mr. Vincent Roth, my man. You led me to the edge of not liking you and then brought me right back to the comfort of your embrace, just like Rosette. I didn't expect it, I really didn't but damn it sir, you did it.
By day Rosette works as an assistant for an Orc of few words. Over the 2 years that she's been his assistant she hasn't even gotten a thank you for the morning coffees she orders everyday or a curt nod for performing her duties a way no one else can. While he may not interact through conversation very often she does not fail to notice the way his eyes track her body as it moves around him. When teasing him with her outfits and the way she chooses to bend over offers not even a single passing touch from her boss in 2 whole years Rosette thinks her chances of ever crossing a line with him are nonexistent. That is until her Orc boss shows up at her night job, the one where she works is way less clothing and with way more skin to skin contact. Velvet is great at what she does and those services come with a price, but is she willing to let her boss see what she does outside of their perfectly curated schedule? Before she can slip away Vincent spots her and requests her company for the evening. Does it still count as an HR violation if they aren't at work and they aren't supposed to know each other in this new situation? After a very unexcepted interaction Vincent abruptly leaves the club and Rosette doesn't know what to expect with her day job going forward. A single interaction inside of the club could not have prepared Rosette, or Vincent, for what would happen when an Orc finally gives into his natural urges and a human is more than willing to accept. "What I thought was a tryst with my assistant has become much, much more than that." 🤭🤭🤭
December 29, 2025
Lyonne Riley’s indecent monsters series might honestly be my favorite series of hers simply for the fact that I keep going into these books thinking “these taboo tropes aren’t/might not be my thing” and then she shows me how, if written well, I can still enjoy them. And I enjoy learning new things about myself just as much as I enjoy admiring the skill it takes in this craft to accomplish such a feat.
For Secretary to the Orc specifically, the forbidden boss/employee trope is a “could take it or leave it” one for me. I loved the dynamic Riley uses where Rosette works for stoic Mr. Roth during the day, but with her alter ego at the nightclub, Velvet, she has him panting after her as Vincent. I almost wish we had gotten a little more back and forth/tension build up with visits to the nightclub because it sweetened the forbidden angle for me.
I also really liked that they’re both unyielding in their own ways; Vincent is an imposing, silent, grumpy orc boss that is used to getting his way and Rosette is a steadfast, fiery, take-no-nonsense independent woman that bends to no one’s will, unless she chooses to do so. Their personalities being so strong makes the smut that much steamier because it’s a level of consent that other authors often miss the mark on. Yes, Vincent is in control, yes he’s playing her body like a finely tuned instrument, but it’s control and pliancy that she offers freely. It also made Vincent falling harder, faster more appealing too, because Rosette doesn’t just swoon and fall into his arms. She makes him wait, she thinks about it, really considers if he’s what she wants. And that was refreshing!
I’m eager to see where Riley takes this series next, what sort of taboo she’ll explore in the next book, if there is one!
For Secretary to the Orc specifically, the forbidden boss/employee trope is a “could take it or leave it” one for me. I loved the dynamic Riley uses where Rosette works for stoic Mr. Roth during the day, but with her alter ego at the nightclub, Velvet, she has him panting after her as Vincent. I almost wish we had gotten a little more back and forth/tension build up with visits to the nightclub because it sweetened the forbidden angle for me.
I also really liked that they’re both unyielding in their own ways; Vincent is an imposing, silent, grumpy orc boss that is used to getting his way and Rosette is a steadfast, fiery, take-no-nonsense independent woman that bends to no one’s will, unless she chooses to do so. Their personalities being so strong makes the smut that much steamier because it’s a level of consent that other authors often miss the mark on. Yes, Vincent is in control, yes he’s playing her body like a finely tuned instrument, but it’s control and pliancy that she offers freely. It also made Vincent falling harder, faster more appealing too, because Rosette doesn’t just swoon and fall into his arms. She makes him wait, she thinks about it, really considers if he’s what she wants. And that was refreshing!
I’m eager to see where Riley takes this series next, what sort of taboo she’ll explore in the next book, if there is one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance
Spice: 3.5/5🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
The Catalog: F/M, Orc boss x human assistant, mutual pining, tension, forbidden feels, FMC into exhibitionism, size training, hard male that’s only soft for her, mates
Kink: breeding (no pregnancy), degradation & praise, exhibitionism, flashing
CW: power imbalance
Synopsis:
Rosette loves getting her boss’ attention, even if it’s taboo, but she can’t get him to do more than look. But when Mr. Roth comes into her second job looking for some feminine attention, the lines between them begin to blur.
Thoughts:
I know I must feel like a broken record at this point, but no one writes monster smut like Lyonne Riley. There is something so extremely primal, romantic, and sexy about the way Lyonne approaches and describes the romance and lust between her characters. Every time I’m just so blown away by the addicting dichotomy of soft and sexy. This story felt like something straight out of my most depraved wet dreams.
Secretary to the Orc focuses on a taboo relationship between a hard Orc boss and his tempting human assistant. And it is hot, y’all. You get all the pining and tension between them, the dominating energy of an orc trying to wrestle his darker instincts, and just enough angst to make you burn through the pages.
I adored these characters, the development of their relationship, Vincent’s growth, and the way they communicated and compromised.
I promise y’all aren’t going to want to miss this short, scorching story.
Spice: 3.5/5🌶️
*spice ratings are relative to similar books in the same genre*
The Catalog: F/M, Orc boss x human assistant, mutual pining, tension, forbidden feels, FMC into exhibitionism, size training, hard male that’s only soft for her, mates
Kink: breeding (no pregnancy), degradation & praise, exhibitionism, flashing
CW: power imbalance
Synopsis:
Rosette loves getting her boss’ attention, even if it’s taboo, but she can’t get him to do more than look. But when Mr. Roth comes into her second job looking for some feminine attention, the lines between them begin to blur.
Thoughts:
I know I must feel like a broken record at this point, but no one writes monster smut like Lyonne Riley. There is something so extremely primal, romantic, and sexy about the way Lyonne approaches and describes the romance and lust between her characters. Every time I’m just so blown away by the addicting dichotomy of soft and sexy. This story felt like something straight out of my most depraved wet dreams.
Secretary to the Orc focuses on a taboo relationship between a hard Orc boss and his tempting human assistant. And it is hot, y’all. You get all the pining and tension between them, the dominating energy of an orc trying to wrestle his darker instincts, and just enough angst to make you burn through the pages.
I adored these characters, the development of their relationship, Vincent’s growth, and the way they communicated and compromised.
I promise y’all aren’t going to want to miss this short, scorching story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
A monster romance where Rosette is the personal assistant to Vincent, and a sex worker by nights. They both have intense attraction to each other (for 2 years in the story) before Vincent throws caution to wind when he happens to walk into her after hours job.
There are a lot of little details in this story to help build the world quickly and imagine the characters, which I personally find to drag the story, but I know some people find that really helpful. I was able to read this story in a little less than 2 hours. Chapter one starts off with a bang, or a flash really, and by chapter 2 we see private parts, so this is your warning, it gets raunchy, real quick.
There are sweet moments sprinkled throughout that lighten the book, I especially liked the desk scene in chapter 7. This is also the first orc book that I’ve read where they are unable to be parents biologically, so no worries for pregnancy triggers.
There is no true angst in the story other than minor issues due to their poor communication skills with each other. But I do appreciate that we see them learn to communicate towards the end when they talk about how their particular mating would look like with Rosette’s kinks.
CONTENT WARNINGS
Graphic: Sexual content
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
A monster romance where Rosette is the personal assistant to Vincent, and a sex worker by nights. They both have intense attraction to each other (for 2 years in the story) before Vincent throws caution to wind when he happens to walk into her after hours job.
There are a lot of little details in this story to help build the world quickly and imagine the characters, which I personally find to drag the story, but I know some people find that really helpful. I was able to read this story in a little less than 2 hours. Chapter one starts off with a bang, or a flash really, and by chapter 2 we see private parts, so this is your warning, it gets raunchy, real quick.
There are sweet moments sprinkled throughout that lighten the book, I especially liked the desk scene in chapter 7. This is also the first orc book that I’ve read where they are unable to be parents biologically, so no worries for pregnancy triggers.
There is no true angst in the story other than minor issues due to their poor communication skills with each other. But I do appreciate that we see them learn to communicate towards the end when they talk about how their particular mating would look like with Rosette’s kinks.
CONTENT WARNINGS
Graphic: Sexual content
December 29, 2025
✨ ARC review ✨
Secretary to the Orc was a high heat, lighthearted, quick read, and as per usual with Lyonne Riley's monster romance/erotica books, I enjoyed it!
Rosette was a really cool FMC to follow, and I liked the writing style and the spice a lot. The built-up to the resolution was believable and had me rooting for the characters. It is a boss/employee romance, so there is technically some power imbalance, but everything was very much reciprocated and handled in a consensual way.
Vincent was hot, but not my fave MMC ever to be honest. Rosette was right to , and ngl, I kinda expected her to
However, the novella ended well. So I still enjoyed the book and would recommend it if you're into spicy monster romances and boss/employee couples!
Thank you to the author for sending me an e-ARC! I am leaving a review voluntarily, and it is my honest opinion.
Secretary to the Orc was a high heat, lighthearted, quick read, and as per usual with Lyonne Riley's monster romance/erotica books, I enjoyed it!
Rosette was a really cool FMC to follow, and I liked the writing style and the spice a lot. The built-up to the resolution was believable and had me rooting for the characters. It is a boss/employee romance, so there is technically some power imbalance, but everything was very much reciprocated and handled in a consensual way.
Vincent was hot, but not my fave MMC ever to be honest. Rosette was right to , and ngl, I kinda expected her to
However, the novella ended well. So I still enjoyed the book and would recommend it if you're into spicy monster romances and boss/employee couples!
Thank you to the author for sending me an e-ARC! I am leaving a review voluntarily, and it is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I’m a sucker for a forbidden romance and Lyonne is continuing to deliver on this series!!
In this installment of her Indecent Monsters series, we got the ever so delicious boss/employee forbidden romance trope! I loved the tension these two faced every day…at least until Vincent discovered Rosette’s secret nighttime identity 😉 Once he found out, it was even more delicious not knowing which act they were going to play at work: the boss/employee or the secret shaggers.
I absolutely loved watching Vincent go feral over Rosette, but I equally loved how she stood up for her independence once they started having a…less professional relationship. I loved how Rosette had her sexy afterhours job because she liked the way it made her feel, not because she needed it. I further loved how his orc nature was very possessive over her but they came to an agreement that everyone could be happy with in the end.
Lastly, there was so much to love in the spice department. From him constantly needing to pleasure her (even at the club!), to the uncircumcised rep, to the dilator set, there was no shortage of sex and desire.
Overall, another great addition to a phenomenal series!
Thank you to Lyonne Riley for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
4.25 stars!
In this installment of her Indecent Monsters series, we got the ever so delicious boss/employee forbidden romance trope! I loved the tension these two faced every day…at least until Vincent discovered Rosette’s secret nighttime identity 😉 Once he found out, it was even more delicious not knowing which act they were going to play at work: the boss/employee or the secret shaggers.
I absolutely loved watching Vincent go feral over Rosette, but I equally loved how she stood up for her independence once they started having a…less professional relationship. I loved how Rosette had her sexy afterhours job because she liked the way it made her feel, not because she needed it. I further loved how his orc nature was very possessive over her but they came to an agreement that everyone could be happy with in the end.
Lastly, there was so much to love in the spice department. From him constantly needing to pleasure her (even at the club!), to the uncircumcised rep, to the dilator set, there was no shortage of sex and desire.
Overall, another great addition to a phenomenal series!
Thank you to Lyonne Riley for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
4.25 stars!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This one is fast with 5🌶 heat so hang on tight!
Rosette's boss has always been a silent sentinel but she knows that he notices her. He just never acts on it. Ne-ver! Well, she's tired of it because she wants him. She tries to tempt him and when it doesn't work, she leaves for the day to get ready for her second job where she's known as, Velvet.
One guess as to who her new "client" is.
Vincent had heard rumors about the underground club but was never interested. He can't think about anyone but his assistant. She is the perfect fit for the job and he can't mess that up no matter how much he wants her. But the temptation has become too much, so he goes to the club to find some relief and get her out of his system.
One guess as to who his "hostess" is.
The forbidden, what both of them have been denying for so long, consumes them. But this is nighttime at the club where he's the client and she's the hostess. What about the next morning at work and the day after that?
Rosette finds out that you have to be careful what you wish for.
Vincent finds out that life isn't like that burger place where you can have it your way.
These two are a perfect fit but they had to learn about each other and they do get their HEA a long the steamy way.
This review is my opinion and is not AI generated.
Rosette's boss has always been a silent sentinel but she knows that he notices her. He just never acts on it. Ne-ver! Well, she's tired of it because she wants him. She tries to tempt him and when it doesn't work, she leaves for the day to get ready for her second job where she's known as, Velvet.
One guess as to who her new "client" is.
Vincent had heard rumors about the underground club but was never interested. He can't think about anyone but his assistant. She is the perfect fit for the job and he can't mess that up no matter how much he wants her. But the temptation has become too much, so he goes to the club to find some relief and get her out of his system.
One guess as to who his "hostess" is.
The forbidden, what both of them have been denying for so long, consumes them. But this is nighttime at the club where he's the client and she's the hostess. What about the next morning at work and the day after that?
Rosette finds out that you have to be careful what you wish for.
Vincent finds out that life isn't like that burger place where you can have it your way.
These two are a perfect fit but they had to learn about each other and they do get their HEA a long the steamy way.
This review is my opinion and is not AI generated.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I’m an orc, and orcs conquer. We take what is ours, leaving no prisoners. And what I want now more than anything is her.”
Ummm excuse me! I ATE this book up so fast! This was a one-sitting book because I was just having so much fun! This has all the forbidden romance feels while delivering a super satisfying romantic payoff at the end! I am in LOVE with these two! Lyonne Riley does orcs REALLY well! I mean, we might as well face it, Lyonne Riley really writes monsters SO WELL!
The pace is very fast and really gets straight to the heat! I adore their chemistry and how voracious both of their appetites are! This is a really saucy, fast paced, steamy read! The storytelling felt so smooth and the characters were so exciting! The balance between build-up, chemistry igniting, conflict, and resolution was also really really nice! That can be really hard to achieve in the compact novella format, but I thought it was a really nice balance here!
This book is a part of the Indecent Monsters Series, they are all complete standalones and feature monsters and some of our favorite taboo stories! This is definitely my favorite of the series!
What’s Inside?
💜Novella
💜Orc/Human
💜Boss/Secretary
💜Mate bonds
💜Grumpy & Sassy!
💜Size Difference
Overall 4.75/5 ⭐️ stars
I was gifted a copy of this book by the author. My opinions are my own. Thank you!
Ummm excuse me! I ATE this book up so fast! This was a one-sitting book because I was just having so much fun! This has all the forbidden romance feels while delivering a super satisfying romantic payoff at the end! I am in LOVE with these two! Lyonne Riley does orcs REALLY well! I mean, we might as well face it, Lyonne Riley really writes monsters SO WELL!
The pace is very fast and really gets straight to the heat! I adore their chemistry and how voracious both of their appetites are! This is a really saucy, fast paced, steamy read! The storytelling felt so smooth and the characters were so exciting! The balance between build-up, chemistry igniting, conflict, and resolution was also really really nice! That can be really hard to achieve in the compact novella format, but I thought it was a really nice balance here!
This book is a part of the Indecent Monsters Series, they are all complete standalones and feature monsters and some of our favorite taboo stories! This is definitely my favorite of the series!
What’s Inside?
💜Novella
💜Orc/Human
💜Boss/Secretary
💜Mate bonds
💜Grumpy & Sassy!
💜Size Difference
Overall 4.75/5 ⭐️ stars
I was gifted a copy of this book by the author. My opinions are my own. Thank you!
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