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The Mad Witch's Orc
In the realm of Shalimar, being a witch is a death sentence.
Calypso is a witch interested in one thing only—revenge against the nobility who betrayed her. She will stop at nothing to get it, even to her detriment.
As the orc chieftain’s nephew, Vidorak is trying to improve things for his suffering clan. The orcs have been at war with the realm for decades, with no end in sight. Until an interesting deal is brought to the table: Bring a bothersome witch to trial and gain a peace treaty.
Vidorak becomes tasked with capturing the witch who has angered the powerful nobility of Shalimar. However, he quickly finds himself entranced, and giving Calypso up won’t be so simple.
These two souls find themselves torn between their growing attraction and the turmoil that surrounds them. Can this pair overcome the influence of outside forces? Or will their future crumble before it even begins?
Calypso is a witch interested in one thing only—revenge against the nobility who betrayed her. She will stop at nothing to get it, even to her detriment.
As the orc chieftain’s nephew, Vidorak is trying to improve things for his suffering clan. The orcs have been at war with the realm for decades, with no end in sight. Until an interesting deal is brought to the table: Bring a bothersome witch to trial and gain a peace treaty.
Vidorak becomes tasked with capturing the witch who has angered the powerful nobility of Shalimar. However, he quickly finds himself entranced, and giving Calypso up won’t be so simple.
These two souls find themselves torn between their growing attraction and the turmoil that surrounds them. Can this pair overcome the influence of outside forces? Or will their future crumble before it even begins?
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
February 10, 2026
LOVEEEE a book w good feminine rage!!!! The characters were so thoughtfully written, with complexity and depth that made the book especially captivating. The world building was particularly impressive too, i felt immersed in the politics of it & i already can’t wait for the next book!!
& the spice was 10/10 ‼️
& the spice was 10/10 ‼️
April 24, 2026
Excellent debut, can't wait for the next one!
First off - love a book with a map. Instant points. This followed up by a great plot is a guaranteed winner in my hands.
I will admit it took me a while to get into. I instantly loved the strong female characters in this book, empathizing instantly on their quest for justice even if we had a morally grey female main character in Calypso who has sacrificed much to increase her abilities to hold those who wronged her and her sisters accountable.
When it came to the Orcs though, I felt it took longer for them to worm their way into my heart. One scene with Vidorak - our male main character -dealing with a wound to the unconscious Calypso felt a little bit predatory as he fantasized about groping her. He didn't, and maybe I'm holding him to too high a standard by expecting him to not have those thoughts, as opposed to just not acting on them. I was also initially concerned how quickly it seemed that Calypso softened to Vidorak considering how they had met, however having finished the book, the pacing does somewhat make more sense!
All on all Vidorak grew on me as I saw him interact with those he trusted and came to understand what his plan was and how he was unintimidated by the fiery Calypso and supported her plans (except for one. But that was a bad plan to be fair!) and I very much enjoy that this is a plot forward book with spicy scenes and not a spicy book with the plot shoehorned in
This first book in the Witches of Shalimar series finishes at the perfect point in Calypso and Vidorak's relationship and hints at possible pairing and plotlines for the next book/books. The world that Victoria Dove has built for us in her debut book feels real and I'll be looking out for book two to see what is next for our witch coven and orc clan.
I received a free copy through Book Sirens in return for a review. This is my true and honest opinion
First off - love a book with a map. Instant points. This followed up by a great plot is a guaranteed winner in my hands.
I will admit it took me a while to get into. I instantly loved the strong female characters in this book, empathizing instantly on their quest for justice even if we had a morally grey female main character in Calypso who has sacrificed much to increase her abilities to hold those who wronged her and her sisters accountable.
When it came to the Orcs though, I felt it took longer for them to worm their way into my heart. One scene with Vidorak - our male main character -dealing with a wound to the unconscious Calypso felt a little bit predatory as he fantasized about groping her. He didn't, and maybe I'm holding him to too high a standard by expecting him to not have those thoughts, as opposed to just not acting on them. I was also initially concerned how quickly it seemed that Calypso softened to Vidorak considering how they had met, however having finished the book, the pacing does somewhat make more sense!
All on all Vidorak grew on me as I saw him interact with those he trusted and came to understand what his plan was and how he was unintimidated by the fiery Calypso and supported her plans (except for one. But that was a bad plan to be fair!) and I very much enjoy that this is a plot forward book with spicy scenes and not a spicy book with the plot shoehorned in
This first book in the Witches of Shalimar series finishes at the perfect point in Calypso and Vidorak's relationship and hints at possible pairing and plotlines for the next book/books. The world that Victoria Dove has built for us in her debut book feels real and I'll be looking out for book two to see what is next for our witch coven and orc clan.
I received a free copy through Book Sirens in return for a review. This is my true and honest opinion
April 13, 2026
STORY: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✅ Fated Mates
✅ Spice
✅ World building
✅ Dangerous FMC
✅ Forced Proximity
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. Sometimes I am a little apprehensive about fantasy romance and the world building. The world building took a few chapters to bounce between the FMC, Calypso, and the MMC, Vidorak, and their respective histories.
Calypso is a powerful witch who have vengeance on her mind. She lost her mother at 16 yo and has been looking to find those responsible and unleash her rage. As a result of Calypso and her sisters, Astra and Nyx, they have made a reputation for themselves and are being hunted. Ultimately, Calypso is captured by an Orc clan in an effort to align with rivals in hopes of a peace treaty. Vidorak, the Chieftain's nephew, is an Orc who is looking for peace and not the chaos and war his uncle, Urim, has forced the clan to adopt.
*** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
The pacing of this story was so well done and the angst between Vidorak and Calypso was well done. They both were drawn to one another and their relationship evolved sweetly while sprinkling in some delicious spice. Vidorak shows her how much he cares for her while allowing her to embrace her independence as the Mad Witch. He shows her through actions that she is something he can`t live without and doesn`t want to have to envision his life otherwise. At one point she contemplates risking her life for the coven but Vidorak shows her that life and plans can change. This book and love story was so well written in my opinion. I loved the flow and logic of the story. Highly recommend if the above speaks to you.
As a side, one of my favourite characters had to be the undead crow. He ended up being a wonderful friend and the saviour to Calypso when she needed him the most!
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✅ Fated Mates
✅ Spice
✅ World building
✅ Dangerous FMC
✅ Forced Proximity
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. Sometimes I am a little apprehensive about fantasy romance and the world building. The world building took a few chapters to bounce between the FMC, Calypso, and the MMC, Vidorak, and their respective histories.
Calypso is a powerful witch who have vengeance on her mind. She lost her mother at 16 yo and has been looking to find those responsible and unleash her rage. As a result of Calypso and her sisters, Astra and Nyx, they have made a reputation for themselves and are being hunted. Ultimately, Calypso is captured by an Orc clan in an effort to align with rivals in hopes of a peace treaty. Vidorak, the Chieftain's nephew, is an Orc who is looking for peace and not the chaos and war his uncle, Urim, has forced the clan to adopt.
*** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
The pacing of this story was so well done and the angst between Vidorak and Calypso was well done. They both were drawn to one another and their relationship evolved sweetly while sprinkling in some delicious spice. Vidorak shows her how much he cares for her while allowing her to embrace her independence as the Mad Witch. He shows her through actions that she is something he can`t live without and doesn`t want to have to envision his life otherwise. At one point she contemplates risking her life for the coven but Vidorak shows her that life and plans can change. This book and love story was so well written in my opinion. I loved the flow and logic of the story. Highly recommend if the above speaks to you.
As a side, one of my favourite characters had to be the undead crow. He ended up being a wonderful friend and the saviour to Calypso when she needed him the most!
March 15, 2026
This witch–orc romance is a gripping story built around vengeance, culture clashes, and an unexpected fated mate bond. The female main character is on a determined path to avenge her mother, while the male main character—an orc—is equally driven to avenge his father. When their paths cross, their shared determination creates an intense and emotionally charged dynamic.
One of the highlights of the book is its rich worldbuilding. The fantasy setting feels well thought out and layered, adding depth to both the story and the characters’ motivations. The stakes feel high throughout, as both characters are deeply committed to their respective causes.
Complicating everything further is the fated mate bond between them. Instead of making things easier, it actually adds more tension, especially because neither of them initially takes the time to understand the other’s culture or perspective. This leads to several misunderstandings that drive the conflict and make their eventual connection feel more hard-earned.
Overall, this is a compelling fantasy romance with strong worldbuilding, intense motivations, and a romance that develops through tension and conflict. If you enjoy fated mates stories with high stakes and emotional depth, this one is definitely worth reading. 📚✨
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One of the highlights of the book is its rich worldbuilding. The fantasy setting feels well thought out and layered, adding depth to both the story and the characters’ motivations. The stakes feel high throughout, as both characters are deeply committed to their respective causes.
Complicating everything further is the fated mate bond between them. Instead of making things easier, it actually adds more tension, especially because neither of them initially takes the time to understand the other’s culture or perspective. This leads to several misunderstandings that drive the conflict and make their eventual connection feel more hard-earned.
Overall, this is a compelling fantasy romance with strong worldbuilding, intense motivations, and a romance that develops through tension and conflict. If you enjoy fated mates stories with high stakes and emotional depth, this one is definitely worth reading. 📚✨
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 18, 2026
Independent reviewer for BookSirens, I was gifted my copy of this book.
I'm not rehashing the blurb, I'm-a jumping straight in!
I thoroughly, totally and utterly enjoyed this book.
The world building is fabulous, pulling some witch history into a world with monsters. Calypso is a powerful witch, and a morally grey one at that and I loved her. She makes no bones about being who she is and what she is and the darn orc is creeping under her skin!
She wanted revenge for what happened to her mother and she worked hard to get where she was, with the other witches. Vidorak puts another image in her mind and she can't fight it. Oh she tries, it takes time for her to see the mate bond, but she fights even then. But when she fully lets Vidorak in?? It's a beautiful thing.
Some violence, what with witches getting burned at the stake and all that but I do think it's needed. The steam level is strong with these two and I loved that it was.
There is, clearly, a much bigger picture to what is going on and I feel that dragon might pop up again. The other witches who are in Calypso's coven are an interesting bunch. Given this is book 1, I assume the other witches will get books, maybe with other orcs? There are clues here, so maybe!
First time author, I reckon Ms Dove nailed it!
4 very VERY good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
I'm not rehashing the blurb, I'm-a jumping straight in!
I thoroughly, totally and utterly enjoyed this book.
The world building is fabulous, pulling some witch history into a world with monsters. Calypso is a powerful witch, and a morally grey one at that and I loved her. She makes no bones about being who she is and what she is and the darn orc is creeping under her skin!
She wanted revenge for what happened to her mother and she worked hard to get where she was, with the other witches. Vidorak puts another image in her mind and she can't fight it. Oh she tries, it takes time for her to see the mate bond, but she fights even then. But when she fully lets Vidorak in?? It's a beautiful thing.
Some violence, what with witches getting burned at the stake and all that but I do think it's needed. The steam level is strong with these two and I loved that it was.
There is, clearly, a much bigger picture to what is going on and I feel that dragon might pop up again. The other witches who are in Calypso's coven are an interesting bunch. Given this is book 1, I assume the other witches will get books, maybe with other orcs? There are clues here, so maybe!
First time author, I reckon Ms Dove nailed it!
4 very VERY good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
April 30, 2026
The Mad Witch’s Orc was an easy 5-star read for me. This is one of those books that completely pulls you in - I found myself staying up until 3 a.m. more than once because I just didn’t want to put it down.
This story blends romance, political intrigue, fated mates, magic, and found family in a way that keeps the pages turning. There’s always something unfolding, but it never feels overwhelming or rushed.
One of the things I appreciated most was the worldbuilding. It’s introduced gradually, which made it easy to stay grounded in the story without feeling overloaded with information. For a first book in a series, that balance is huge.
The pacing felt well handled throughout, and the tone stayed consistent, making the story feel immersive from beginning to end. It’s the kind of book that keeps you engaged while still letting the characters and relationships develop naturally.
Overall, this was an engaging and immersive read that I had a hard time stepping away from. I’m very interested to see where the series goes next.
I received an advance review copy of this book and am sharing my honest thoughts voluntarily.
This story blends romance, political intrigue, fated mates, magic, and found family in a way that keeps the pages turning. There’s always something unfolding, but it never feels overwhelming or rushed.
One of the things I appreciated most was the worldbuilding. It’s introduced gradually, which made it easy to stay grounded in the story without feeling overloaded with information. For a first book in a series, that balance is huge.
The pacing felt well handled throughout, and the tone stayed consistent, making the story feel immersive from beginning to end. It’s the kind of book that keeps you engaged while still letting the characters and relationships develop naturally.
Overall, this was an engaging and immersive read that I had a hard time stepping away from. I’m very interested to see where the series goes next.
I received an advance review copy of this book and am sharing my honest thoughts voluntarily.
April 6, 2026
The Mad Witch's Orc by Victoria Dove
I RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS AN ARC IN EXCHANGE OF A HONEST REVIEW.
In a kingdom where witchcraft and any mystical creature is hunted. Our two main characters try to find a way of peace and vengeance for their people.
Callipso is a witch that once had a perfect live but her mother ´s death made her swear revenge on every person responsable. Making her believe she was destined to be alone with her anger and flames.
Vidorak is an Orc, nephew of the chieftain. He long ago close his feelings to survive and one day challenge his uncle and take his place. And improve his clan since they have been at war ever since.
One way their paths cross making them slowly choosing to partner up and discover things about them. They see in each other what no one else has seen and that terrifies them.
Truly flew with this book, I always in a romantasy book one love or the world builthing or the romance but in this book it was both. Happy with the ending but felt sad for the prince.
I RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS AN ARC IN EXCHANGE OF A HONEST REVIEW.
In a kingdom where witchcraft and any mystical creature is hunted. Our two main characters try to find a way of peace and vengeance for their people.
Callipso is a witch that once had a perfect live but her mother ´s death made her swear revenge on every person responsable. Making her believe she was destined to be alone with her anger and flames.
Vidorak is an Orc, nephew of the chieftain. He long ago close his feelings to survive and one day challenge his uncle and take his place. And improve his clan since they have been at war ever since.
One way their paths cross making them slowly choosing to partner up and discover things about them. They see in each other what no one else has seen and that terrifies them.
Truly flew with this book, I always in a romantasy book one love or the world builthing or the romance but in this book it was both. Happy with the ending but felt sad for the prince.
February 16, 2026
3.75
Book synopsis from Amazon:
In the realm of Shalimar, being a witch is a death sentence.
Calypso is a witch interested in one thing only–revenge against the nobility who betrayed her. She will stop at nothing to get it, even to her own detriment. As the orc chieftain’s nephew, Vidorak is trying to improve things for his suffering clan. The orcs have been at war with the realm for decades, with no end in sight.
Until an interesting deal is brought to the table: Bring a bothersome witch to trial and gain a peace treaty.
Vidorak becomes tasked with capturing the witch who has angered the powerful nobility of Shalimar. However, he quickly finds himself entranced, and giving Calypso up won’t be so simple. These two souls find themselves torn between their growing attraction and the turmoil that surrounds them.
Can this pair overcome the influence of outside forces? Or will their future crumble before it even begins?
Book synopsis from Amazon:
In the realm of Shalimar, being a witch is a death sentence.
Calypso is a witch interested in one thing only–revenge against the nobility who betrayed her. She will stop at nothing to get it, even to her own detriment. As the orc chieftain’s nephew, Vidorak is trying to improve things for his suffering clan. The orcs have been at war with the realm for decades, with no end in sight.
Until an interesting deal is brought to the table: Bring a bothersome witch to trial and gain a peace treaty.
Vidorak becomes tasked with capturing the witch who has angered the powerful nobility of Shalimar. However, he quickly finds himself entranced, and giving Calypso up won’t be so simple. These two souls find themselves torn between their growing attraction and the turmoil that surrounds them.
Can this pair overcome the influence of outside forces? Or will their future crumble before it even begins?
March 1, 2026
The world presented in this book is very interesting; there are points very much related to history and the witch hunts, but with a touch of magic and supernatural characters.
It's interesting to see how their relationship develops throughout the story's plot. The male character discovers the connection between them first and waits patiently until it reaches the same page.
It's cool to see how the other characters also begin to find their place in the plot, leaving the way open for the story to continue in future books.
Be prepared for the spice, because the spicy moments are intense.
I'm ready for the continuation of the story and to see where all the political intrigue leads!
It's interesting to see how their relationship develops throughout the story's plot. The male character discovers the connection between them first and waits patiently until it reaches the same page.
It's cool to see how the other characters also begin to find their place in the plot, leaving the way open for the story to continue in future books.
Be prepared for the spice, because the spicy moments are intense.
I'm ready for the continuation of the story and to see where all the political intrigue leads!
June 3, 2026
The Mad Witch's Orc is a great read. I enjoyed it so much and I hope the author continues with the series. The relationship between Vidorak and Calypso is wonderful. They begin as enemies but very quickly they become closer and get to know each other better and fall in love so Vidorak finds he is cannot go through with the deal he'd made with the nobility of Shalimar. The book has the right combination of intrigue, fated mates, war and romance. The world building is complex. The reader keeps doscovering something new as the story progresses. I give it 5 stars and I highly recommend it, especially to orc romance lovers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 stars.
Love this FMC — she is morally grey (proudly so). The Mad Witch’s Orc is an adventure romantasy with blood magic, mates, and die-for-her vibes. The writing was easy to read, and the story was engaging and held my attention.
There were some beautiful moments and some hilarious ones. I loved the ending, the FMC journey to get there, and the romance, which was the sweetest (a lil spicy).
Great read! This is also a great entry point for those who are unfamiliar with Orc or monster Romance books.
Love this FMC — she is morally grey (proudly so). The Mad Witch’s Orc is an adventure romantasy with blood magic, mates, and die-for-her vibes. The writing was easy to read, and the story was engaging and held my attention.
There were some beautiful moments and some hilarious ones. I loved the ending, the FMC journey to get there, and the romance, which was the sweetest (a lil spicy).
Great read! This is also a great entry point for those who are unfamiliar with Orc or monster Romance books.
February 28, 2026
A great debut novel from Victoria Dove! The main characters are flawed and real, which makes it easy to become attached to their growth and journey. The flow of the narrative felt choppy early on but really hit its stride toward the middle of the book. Perfect balance of spice and adventure. And I love that I was already seeing Easter eggs of narratives for side characters that might get told someday. Can’t wait for the next book!
March 9, 2026
I love a good Orc romance and this one did not disappoint! This is a great read with an Orc and a witch who is full of feminine rage. This story is full of adventure, spice, feminine rage, some revenge, and beautiful romance. The characters in this book are well written and I am excited to see where book 2 takes us!
I received an ARC and leave this review voluntarily.
I received an ARC and leave this review voluntarily.
March 3, 2026
This was an excellent read. The loved the story line and the main characters! The writing felt a bit choppy in the beginning but seemed to smooth out. I would highly recommend this one to any fantasy romance readers and look forward to reading more in this series!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spicy, adventurous and full of spice and fire. The story keeps you spell bound and the passion is hot as hell! I received an ARC and leave this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews